This idea came to me at 11:38 at night as a chance to show Aragorn as a vulnerable person. This plot could not have evolved without the wonderful help from my great friend dizzy izzy. Without her, this story could not have happened. Thanks, dizzy izzy. You deserve an award. Dizzy izzy also is my beta for this story.
If anyone needs a good romantic title, go to her!
This story will contain sexual abuse(mentioned), child abuse, and maybe some sex later. Aragorn is gonna be weak in this story, ok? This story is SLASH.
Disclaimer: I don't own any of Tolkien's characters. Dizzy izzy and I own the plot and Lenwe.
AU! No ring, different time scenarios.
I hope you enjoy this very different story!
REBORN INNOCENCE
Prince Legolas Greenleaf rode into Imladris one peaceful summer evening with his eight elven guards. The calming sound of running water and songbirds surrounded the elf in a world of peace, and he smiled.
Legolas had come to Rivendell to speak with Lord Elrond, mostly to strengthen Mirkwood's and Imladris' alliance. His father could not come; he was too busy fighting the evil that lurked so close to his realm. Legolas would have preferred to stay and assist his father, but Thranduil insisted.
As Legolas looked around at the beautiful buildings and waterfalls, he was glad he had listened to Thranduil's advice. It was very tranquil in Imladris, something Legolas needed after years of fighting in Mirkwood.
The golden haired elf and his escort were welcomed warmly by Lord Elrond himself, along with his sons, Elladan and Elrohir. A handsome young man Legolas didn't know also stood with the Peredhil, and his curiosity was piqued by the stranger.
The man looked like he was about to reach his majority; his face was smooth and chiseled, and his dark copper hair reached his shoulders in waves. He was tall and lean, but Legolas could see that he was strong and muscled as well. His eyes were a kind blue gray; very large and expressive. The Prince was so struck by the man's beauty that he did not answer Elrond's welcome at first. He was yanked out of his reverie when a guard elbowed him slightly.
Elrond watched Legolas with curious, amused eyes. "I say again, Legolas of Mirkwood; Welcome to my home," This was said regally, but his voice contained a hint of laughter.
Legolas smiled apologetically. "Forgive me, Lord Elrond. It is a pleasure to be visiting Imladris after so many years." He saw the man smile slightly, a pleasant, boyish smile. A lovely smile, Legolas decided. Upon closer inspection of this creature, he stopped his frown. A light purple bruise colored the man's high cheekbone, obviously fresh.
Elrond saw where Legolas' gaze was directed and he cleared his throat. "I'm sorry, Legolas. This is Estel, my son. He arrived sixteen years ago, and is very dear to me."
Legolas noted that Estel's smile brightened at being called Elrond's son, but then he bowed his head slightly. He spoke in a cultured voice. "My Prince Legolas."
Legolas nodded his head in acknowledgement. "I am glad to make your acquaintance, Estel," he replied, his gentle voice even.
The rest of the evening passed fairly quickly, and Legolas was taken to his rooms after a conversation with the twins. He sighed with relief; Elladan and Elrohir were remarkably entertaining, but in moderate doses, and he was allowed to rest for the remainder of the night. He did not have to partake in the dinner festivities, as he was tired from his journey and since he had been excused to do as he pleased, Legolas decided to visit the stables.
Legolas had always had a passion for horses; he seemed to know what they were thinking and they knew that of him. The majestic creatures always had a calming effect on him.
When he reached the stables, he was surprised too see Estel there, brushing a handsome chestnut mare. He was murmuring to the animal, who turned her head around and playfully nudged him, causing the young man to chuckle.
Legolas smiled softly at seeing the interaction between the two beings. It was always wonderful to see the earth's creatures working in harmony. Estel clearly had a way with animals as the Elves did; a true gift in humans.
Legolas had noticed earlier that Estel's ears were slightly pointed at the tips; the boy had elf blood flowing through his veins. Perhaps that was the source of his easy relationship with the horses.
Estel suddenly whirled around and faced Legolas, a wary expression on his face, almost as though he had been expecting someone else; someone he did not care for. His expression relaxed as it settled on the Prince's face.
"Forgive me if I disturbed you," Legolas' breezy voice floated softly to the boy's ears. "I wanted to spend some time with the horses myself."
Estel lowered his eyes. "It's quite alright, my lord. The horses enjoy having a bit of company now and then."
Legolas' lips turned downward. "Please do not address me as 'my lord', Estel. I hear enough of it at my father's palace. I wish to be your friend, not your better." It was true; Legolas hated formal titles.
Estel nodded almost apologetically. He still did not make an effort to speak to the elf.
Legolas stepped into the stall with Estel. Legolas saw that Estel tensed when he came near, but the elf decided to let it pass. Legolas stroked the mare's velvety muzzle, and whispered endearing words of elvish to her. "What is her name?" Legolas inquired, hoping to start up a conversation. Estel was quiet and a mystery, but exuded a lot of kindness and Legolas wished to explore
Estel went on brushing the creature, and answered quietly without meeting Legolas' gaze, "Alfirin. We found her in a clearing just outside of Imladris' borders six years ago, alone and nearly starved."
Legolas clucked in sympathy for the horse, and moved to caress Alfirin's flanks, but then stopped when Estel let out a tiny noise of distress and backed up against to stable wall, edging to the door.
Legolas' brow furrowed in concern. "Estel?" he questioned, his cerulean blue eyes open and questioning. Estel was extremely nervous around him; it wasn't normal. He was the type of boy who should be happy and cheerful; full of life and excited about his future. Instead, Legolas saw a troubled and timid soul; but at the same time, he could tell that Estel's soul was breathtakingly beautiful if he would allow anyone to see it.
Estel kept his back pressed up against the wall, his breathing reverting back to its normal pace. He cautiously lifted his head to meet Legolas' eyes. He was surprised to see no anger there, but only concern and sad curiosity.
"I'm sorry, Estel. I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable," Legolas murmured, making his voice calm and soothing. Estel reminded him of a frightened animal who had just been hurt badly.
"No, its fine." Estel whispered. "Forgive me," he muttered, and left the stall. Legolas heard him return the brush and leave the stable, and break into a run on the way back to the Last Homely House.
Legolas' brow was still bunched up in thought, and he turned to Alfirin. "What could have happened to him?" Legolas wondered out loud, and fed the mare a carrot Estel had left on the shelf in the stall.
After pampering his own horse, Legolas left the stable and headed to his rooms, tired and confused from the day's events.
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