Disclaimer: I own nothing to do with LotR… well, not officially. n.n

Warnings: Slash, A/L. This chapter is prob'ly pushin' PG-13. I don't think it requires a change to R, but… if you think so let me know… Actually, I know it doesn't require a change… XD I wanted to go farther with the scene too. Grrr on the PG-13-ness. XD

Sorry 'bout all grammar and/or spelling mistakes.

Sooo sorry everyone! I didn't mean for it to take this long. I hadn't even realized it had been so long. I've had this written for a while, but had no time to type it, especially since it's so much longer than usual. I hope you enjoy that, btw. n.n

Don't let the length discourage you either, please. n.n

This is the last chapter, too. Nice 'n' long. n.n;; Don't forget to let me know what you think. n.n

Well, let's get on with this, shall we? Enjoy. n.n

Heart's Truth

Chapter Seventeen: Finding Acceptance

To Aragorn's utter surprise Thranduil had continued to be kind to him while they waited for Legolas to wake, and even then he was. What really got him was how he kept being nice to him even after the younger elf had fallen back asleep, still being beyond exhausted and in a lot of pain.

Once Legolas had been given more herbs and had fallen back asleep they decided to head back to the Mirkwood Palace.

Aragorn picked Legolas up carefully and brought him to his horse, about to ask a warrior next to him for help so he would not cause unnecessary pain to his elf. Thranduil suddenly challenged him, however, wanting to carry his son and keep an eye on him. Even though he trusted the human a bit more every time they spoke he still did not want Legolas in the human's hands while ridding, especially in his tired state of mind… even if Aragorn didn't admit it, everyone knew it to be true.

"Please, my lord, let him ride with me," Aragorn pleaded with Thranduil. He needed to have his lover close to him after the scare of almost losing him.

Thranduil was surprised at the human's tone. He never thought the ranger would beg him. It tugged roughly at his heart hearing him speak like that.

"How much do you know of the healing arts?" the elf king questioned, thinking of his son's health. He knew Aragorn had some experience, for he had said so himself and the way he treated Legolas obviously showed he knew what he was doing. Legolas' health was the most important thing right now; nothing else concerned him.

"I have been watching my father for as long as I can remember and am studying under him as well," Aragorn replied seriously.

Oh, that's right, the elder elf thought. He had nearly forgotten that the human had been adopted by the lord of Imladris. He knew that Elrond was the best known healer too. Therefore, the ranger's skills must be extensive; definitely better than his own. While he did know quite a bit, most of it was basic.

The elf king walked over to the human and Aragorn tightened his hold on Legolas, thinking he was going to take the archer from him.

"I shall help you," Thranduil relented, taking Legolas from the human so he could hand his son up to him after he had mounted.

Aragorn was too shocked to stop the elf king's movements even if he wanted to. He didn't even realize he had mounted Lor (his mare) and that Legolas was back in his arms. It had been awfully easy to convince Thranduil to let him carry his son. What was going on? The elf king was acting strange. Now he was even more unsure of how to act around him; before it had been bad enough.

Soon they were on their way again, their keen eyes looking for any dangers that might come their way. They didn't need anymore injuries.

Aragorn was extremely grateful of the elf king for letting him carry the unconscious Legolas.

They rode for hours before Legolas finally began to stir, and groaned when he hit a wall of pain. His head was pounding as he fought to open his eyes feeling movement beneath him and he vaguely heard voices calling his name, a voice that sounded worried and incredibly familiar; yet he couldn't place it through the pain.

The young elf knew he should know the name so he forced his eyes open.

He was surprised that he hadn't been able to recognize the voice right away when his eyes finally focused on the face hovering above his own. He had been greeted by stormy eyes that were filled with worry.

"How are you, mellon-nin?" Aragorn asked when he found the sky-blue eyes locked with his own. He had been anxious when the elf hadn't answered the first few times when his name was called. It was to be expected, though.

The aching in Legolas' head did nothing to help his concentration, and he was going to raise his hand up to his temple to null the pain, but he gave up when he was too exhausted to even try. He had also felt a sudden stab of pain in his arm. Before, the throbbing in his head and his bleary state of mind had been distracting him from everything else. He still questioned the continuous up and down movement he felt.

Aragorn didn't know what to make of the lack of response from his lover. The blonde elf seemed to be thinking of something deeply, his eyebrows furrowed in thought and probably in pain. He had given the archer some painkilling herbs not too long ago, but the human was sure he still felt a dull ache, if not more. He had no idea how hard Legolas had actually hit his head.

It was a good thing that the younger elf had at least recognized who he was, for even if he had said nothing as of yet, Aragorn still saw the look of recognition light up in the crystal-blue eyes he loved looking in to, like looking up at a cloudless, bright-blue sky.

The warriors next to them looked over at the two when they heard the human talking. They were glad to see their prince had awakened.

None of them said anything, not wanting to disrupt the two. They did, however, send word up to their king, telling him that his son had awoken and was more aware than before. The first time he had waken up he had become very sick and barely knew his own name, much less who was around him or what was going on. All had been immensely concerned, but that was an understatement for Thranduil and Aragorn's state of mind… They had been near-panic, barely able to contain themselves, not wanting to worsen Legolas' state.

Aye, Thranduil would really appreciate this news.

Aragorn watched as his elf's eyes shifted left and right searchingly. He was confused as to what exactly the archer was looking for.

"Where…?" the elf croaked. Clearing his throat, he tried again.

Aragorn knew what Legolas meant, though so he said, "We are on our way back to the palace."

"How much longer?" the injured elf struggled to ask, his eyes closing of their own will.

"Still a couple more days," the ranger answered softly. He was worried that the blonde wasn't able to keep his eyes open and the shivering his body was consumed with didn't help matters. However, it was a definite improvement from before when he hadn't recognized any of them and had been so sick. He was really appreciative that his elf was so much better.

"Legolas," a voice to the human's right said gently.

Aragorn looked up, startled at the sudden appearance. He had been so engrossed with Legolas that he hadn't even heard Thranduil approach.

By this time, Legolas was beyond exhausted and could no longer force his eyes open, barely hanging onto the ledge of consciousness and about to fall into its dark depths.
All the injured elf could manage was a small smile at the sound of his father's voice, trying to reassure the elder elf or at least give him some piece of mind.

The elf king had been at the front of the line, farther up with a few scouts to make sure their path was clear. With his son in his current state he wanted to make sure that they wouldn't run into anything himself.

He had been very pleased to hear that his son had awakened and had been aware. He was disappointed when he couldn't speak to him himself, but he was still ecstatic to hear of his improved health and to see the small, but amazing smile.

Thranduil smiled back at Legolas, even though he knew the younger elf couldn't see it. He placed his hand on the slender, still shaking, hand in comfort.

Seeing the elf king's tenderness towards his son dispersed any and all thoughts he had been harboring against Thranduil's feelings and actions against Legolas. He was like any other father: trying to do his best to protect his child. He had doubted his affections before, but no longer.

Turning his attention back to his lover's beautiful form within his arms, he noted that he had fallen asleep, unable to stay awake.

They went on their way, the elder elf and human riding alongside each other while they watched over the one they loved. They had come to a silent agreement. Even if they didn't get along as much as Aragorn wished, he was still grateful that they could now be civilized, especially where the younger elf was concerned.

Night had soon fallen and they set up camp, not wanting and unwilling to run into the foul creatures that reigned over the darkness.

Legolas hadn't awoken since that afternoon, not even during their last break and, while Aragorn wanted his lover to rest, he still couldn't help but wish he would wake soon. For Legolas to be sleeping this long it usually wasn't that great of a sign. Fortunately, it wasn't that bad of one either, since he had been receiving next to no sleep before.

The ones sent to retrieve food soon returned and they quickly prepared that night's meal, as the fire was already set ablaze.

While they ate Thranduil settled himself down next to Aragorn and Legolas, handing some food to the human and keeping some for himself. He wished to be close to his son and wished to speak with the ranger more. There was nothing more that he wanted than for Legolas to be happy; if taking Aragorn away from him was going to cause him too much despair to handle then he didn't want to do that. However, the human had to prove his worth first. He had been surprising the elf king with his intellect and devotion to things (or people) that were important to him. Perhaps Legolas had been wise in his decision, despite the fact that Aragorn was human. He just could not let that go, try as he might. He didn't want his son to suffer a broken heart.

The two ate in silence, waiting for Legolas to regain consciousness. Neither of them knew what to say to the other; it was still difficult for them to speak freely, and probably always would be. Thranduil also avoided all questions that had to do with Aragorn and Legolas' relationship… well, he was trying not to think of them in any case.

"So, things are going well in Imladris?" the elf king attempted to start a conversation. He wouldn't be able to learn more about the human if they didn't speak.

"Aye," Aragorn responded.

And that was the end of that.

It wasn't until a while after they had finished eating that either of them spoke again, unsure of what to say.

Thranduil sighed deeply, his thoughts going against their first impression of the one sitting beside him. Finally, he asked, "How do I know you shall not leave my son for someone else?" Once again his concern for Legolas overpowered anything else he might have said.

Aragorn was taken aback by this question and by the elder elf's sudden voice, for they hadn't said a word to each other since they had started eating.

"I could never leave him. I would rather die than do so," the human answered sternly when he had recovered from his slight shock. He had thought he had already made it clear that he would never leave Legolas, but he would repeat it as many times as it was necessary for the elf king.

Thranduil hadn't even known why he had asked the human that question again. The first time he had, he knew Aragorn had been speaking the truth, his eyes and strong voice had carried that well enough, and they did so this time as well. He supposed he just could not truly believe the human.

The elder elf nodded nonetheless, willing to give the ranger another chance.

"How have Elrond and the twins been faring?" Thranduil asked curiously. He had been friends with the lord of Imladris for a long time, but they had not spoken for a while, not after the last time Aragorn had come to his kingdom. He wondered how he had raised the human for him to be acting in such a way. The fact that his own son had been doing the same hadn't occurred to him.

This question surprisingly got Aragorn talking and the two continued to speak about whatever came to mind, though still a bit cautious.

Apparently they had just needed a boost and a subject Aragorn was willing to talk about, one he knew he wouldn't have to be careful about, or think about every word that came from his mouth.

Legolas slowly woke to the sound of two voices, one telling some sort of tale, obviously amused, while the other added comments where necessary. At first the elf had no idea who they were or what they were talking about, for the headache that came with consciousness let no time waste before it made itself known in a very unpleasant way.

The two suddenly laughed and the awakening elf struggled to open his leaden eyelids, wanting to see who they were. It had sounded like Aragorn and his father, but since when did they talk together like this, much less laugh with each other!

"Oh, he's waking up," the voice that sounded like his father said excitedly.

"It's about time, mellon-nin," the other one that sounded like his lover joked.

They are in such good moods too… the young blonde thought puzzled. Was he truly waking or was this a dream? As much as he would love for this to be reality, it just didn't fit. His father never acted like this. And, last he knew, the elf king had been ignoring the human.

The confusion didn't help his pounding head.

Legolas somehow managed to open his eyes and was met with the sight of two pairs of eyes hovering over him.

The eyes belonged to exactly who he had thought they did, however, that did nothing to quell his confusion.

"How do you feel, ion-nin?" the elder elf questioned in concern, seeing the younger elf's eyebrows furrowed.

Confused, the archer answered, or had tried to at least. His mouth had opened and formed the word but no sound had escaped from his parched throat.

He licked his dry lips. Aragorn knew immediately what his lover wanted and he got it for him; helping him drink it when he had gotten it.

Thranduil then repeated the question and, this time, Legolas was able to reply.

Aragorn and Thranduil looked at each other in question and worry.

"Confused about what?" the human queried. He had been thrilled when his elf woke up and had seemed to be aware and not sick. However, he was extremely concerned for him with him acting like this.

"You two," Legolas said softly, still weak. "Are you two alright?" he asked his own question, uncertainly.

Aragorn just blinked at the young elf and then suddenly laughed. He now realized what Legolas was talking about and why he was so confused. Knowing his elf as well as he did it wasn't hard to figure out.

"What is it?" the elf king asked perplexed. He didn't understand what the human had found to be so funny.

"He's confused about our behavior towards each other. He must have heard part of our conversation," Aragorn explained through his laughter. It wasn't really that it was so funny, it was just that he was so relieved that he couldn't help but laugh so much.

Thranduil grinned and let out a sigh of relief. That was no surprise; he was glad it wasn't due to his concussion that is son was so confused.

Their laughter did nothing to help Legolas, however, and he frowned at them.

Aragorn abruptly stopped laughing when he saw his lover frown and then wince against the pain.

The ranger softly placed is hand on the elf's shoulder and reassured him, "Don't worry, mellon-nin. There's nothing wrong. Trust me." He smiled warmly at his lover.

Legolas blinked up at the human and then shifted his gaze to his father.

Thranduil nodded, showing the younger elf that what Aragorn had said was the truth.

Aragorn then went over to the fire, cup and bag of herbs in hand. The archer obviously needed some painkillers and he wouldn't watch his lover suffer, especially if it was needlessly.

Legolas decided to let it go, it required far too much thought for his throbbing head to even begin to comprehend or even think about. He was immensely grateful when Aragorn gave him the painkilling herbs, helping him drink the tea.

"How long was I out?" the archer asked once his headache had become a dull throb.

"Most of the day," the elf king answered sadly, looking down at his son. He could not describe how ecstatic he felt about Legolas being so aware and able to talk with them this time.

Legolas frowned deeply, not liking that he had slept the day away and the fact that he was still tired. He forced himself to ignore it, though, for he did not want to worry the two even more than he already had.

"It's alright, Legolas. It's alright to sleep," Aragorn said with a small smile. He knew his lover needed a lot more rest. However, he had not given him a sleeping herb, for he would not force his elf to sleep this night. With how tired Legolas was he very much doubted he would need it.

"Why were you two laughing before?" said elf asked in curiosity. He had been wondering why ever since he had awoken to the wonderful sounds. He hadn't heard his father laugh in so long. He wanted to know what had caused it… maybe he could make him laugh more often.

Thranduil and Aragorn turned to each other, a smile on their lips.

Legolas raised his eyebrows in question. What happened between them? he wondered. He was definitely grateful for the change though. It was a lot better than them being at the other's throat.

"I was just talking about you," the human said with a grin, one that seemed none too innocent.

Legolas groaned. "Do I even want to know?"

Both Aragorn and Thranduil laughed. "Probably not."

"Great. Thanks, love," the archer said sarcastically; before he could stop himself.

Once he realized what he had said he quickly looked up at his father to see his reaction.

Thranduil frowned at Legolas, but not because of what he had said. It was the way his son had looked up at him after it, almost with a look of fear. It crushed his heart to see it. Had he really instilled so much wariness in the younger elf that he was this cautious about what was said?

The frown on the elder elf's face did not bode well, and Legolas turned his gaze away, trying to prepare himself for whatever was to come.

Aragorn also waited anxiously for the elf king's reply; even though he had become a lot closer to him he did not know what his reaction might be.

"Legolas," Thranduil started firmly, turning the golden head so he could look straight into the cerulean eyes. "You need not worry about that. I told you I would give Estel a chance and I am. I must say I am most pleased thus far." He smiled warmly at his son and almost started to burst out laughing at the archer's expression of surprise. He controlled himself, however, now was not the time… not quite yet at least.

Both Legolas and Aragorn gaped at the elf king. A few warriors who had been close by did so as well.

Hey, they couldn't help it, their prince had finally regained consciousness; besides Aragorn had been telling stories about Legolas that were hilarious. Aragorn and Thranduil had known they had had an audience, but they didn't mind. It wasn't as if they could do much about it considering their location.

"D-does that mean…" Legolas trailed off, his disbelief getting the better of him.

Thranduil couldn't help but laugh at his son now.

Aragorn and Legolas looked at each other, unsure of what the elder elf found so amusing. Was he losing it? With his recent behavior Legolas wouldn't doubt it in the least. He had also noticed the way the elf king had used the ranger's name before.

"Aye," Thranduil said with a smile, "I shall accept your relationship. From what Estel has told me, I can tell he is a good man."

Legolas couldn't believe his ears. Did his father really just say what he thought? Was he really dreaming? It was too good to be true. What had happened while he had been unconscious?

All these questions only brought his headache to the front again, despite the painkillers. However, he was too shocked to even register what the pounding in his head was.

Aragorn stared wide-eyed at the elf king, also in disbelief. He knew Thranduil had opened up to him a bit but he had no idea he had this much. He couldn't even express his joy, for the shock of the situation over-road all other thoughts.

"Am I dreaming?" the archer asked, though he was sure he was. How else could his father be saying these things?

Aragorn wanted to know the same thing himself! It was just so unreal.

Thranduil smiled gently at his son, sad that the elf couldn't believe him. "Nay, ion-nin, this is not a dream and I am serious," he reassured the awestruck elf.

Legolas stared at the elder elf for a moment before saying, "Hannon le, Ada," with a wide smile. He was so relieved he felt tears prick the corner of his eyes. It was beyond him what could have changed his mind. He wished he could have heard their conversations; they had obviously been good ones.

It was then that Thranduil knew he had made the right decision. At first he had been extremely reluctant at saying such a thing aloud, but he was glad he had. He just hoped he would not come to regret it. After coming so close to losing Legolas he realized how easily he could lose him. Valar knew how much trouble he already got into. He only wished for his son's happiness. If being with the human was what would make him happy then he'd have to give in. It was all too apparent that that was exactly what he had to do too, so… he had.

Aragorn grinned at his lover, squeezing his hand gently, as if saying, 'See? I told you all would be well.'

Legolas weakly squeezed back, smiling faintly, however, he closed his eyes. He was incredibly tired and all this excitement was getting to him.

Aragorn and Thranduil watched in alarm as the younger elf struggled to stay awake. Both had forgotten about his injuries and now felt guilty for doing so.

Thranduil smoothed out Legolas' golden hair soothingly. "Sleep, ion-nin," he said quietly. The archer was exhausted, way more than he had been before. He couldn't believe they had neglected Legolas' health.

Once Aragorn was sure his elf was asleep he turned to the elf king. "You have no idea how much I appreciate this. It means so much," he said, truly touched, barely able to get out the words.

Thranduil placed his hand on the human's shoulder in acknowledgment, smiling in return.

Before they knew it they were back at the Mirkwood Palace. The days had passed by quickly for the three and the warriors. It had especially been fast for Legolas, who slept most the time, finally able to catch up on his much needed rest. It still hadn't completely sunk in that Thranduil had accepted his and Aragorn's relationship but he was very pleased with how he had been treating his lover while he was awake to see it.

Who knew something so wonderful could come from Legolas almost drowning?

Both Aragorn and Thranduil were very pleased to see that Legolas' arm was almost healed as well as his concussion.

It had been a day since they had come back, the first day Legolas had spent recovering in his room. The human was still sleeping in the chamber that had been set-up for him, unsure of the boundaries. However, this night he decided he'd pay Legolas a visit.

After everyone had retired, the human crept down the hall to the prince's chamber, not wanting to be caught, for he did not know what the consequence would be – if anything. He was still so uncertain about a lot of things that had to do with Mirkwood and its king.

When he entered his lover's room (without knocking, for he didn't want to make any noise) he found the elf asleep, eyes still closed.

Aragorn silently walked over to the archer's bed and carefully got onto it, trying not to wake his sleeping elf.

He slipped under the covers next to the blonde, snuggling up to him on his uninjured side, laying his arm over his chest. He tensed when he felt Legolas shift his body and turn towards him, but he soon relaxed when the archer let out a sigh of contentment and fell back into a deeper, more peaceful rest.

Aragorn smiled and kissed his lover's hand, not wanting to move and risk waking him again.

When the human had first thought of sneaking in to Legolas' room he hadn't expected to sleep in there, in fact he meant to get out before that could happen, in case Thranduil found him. Even if he accepted their relationship, he didn't know how the elf king would react. He never knew how he would react…

The ranger sighed deeply and moved closer – if possible – to his elf, drawing in comfort, losing himself to his lover's scent and feel, ridding himself of all disconcerting thoughts.

Soon sleep claimed him and he forgot all about his plan about leaving the elf's room before morning. He doubted he'd be able to even if he tried, he was just too comfortable. He hadn't slept by his lover's side in a while… Okay, about four days, but to him it felt so much longer.

………….

The next morning Thranduil entered the room quietly, if his son was in fact still sleeping he did not wish to wake him. However, he was concerned for the younger elf since neither he nor Aragorn had showed up at the morning meal. He had decided to check up on Legolas first, thinking something might have happened to him and the human had stayed by the archer's side. If that was the case, the elf king would not be happy with Aragorn, for he had not told him of his son's health.

What he saw shocked him into stopping in his tracks, to stare wide-eyed at the bed.

He had found Aragorn in his son's bed. His emotions swirled around his mind in one big mass, none dominating the other. He had no idea whether he should be angry, happy, sad, confused, anything. Well, he certainly was shocked. No doubt about that!

He had been angry about the fact that the human had snuck into Legolas' room, but he supposed he should have expected something like that, for Aragorn only wished to be close to the younger elf. It was obvious by how he had acted after Legolas had been bucked into the river and even before that.

Also, as he examined the two lovers closer, he could tell that they had done nothing. Aragorn was against Legolas' side, his arm over the elf's chest, his head turned toward the human, still aware of his broken arm, even in sleep. If Thranduil had seen them the night before he would have noted that they were almost in the same position as then. They were so glad to be with each other again that they didn't need to move, even though Legolas' body wished to be closer, his broken arm didn't allow it.

The main thing that Thranduil had noticed was the look of contentment that covered both of their handsome features.

The elf king inwardly sighed in exasperation, his body slumping.

With that, he gave up. There was no stopping the two. That's really all there was to it. He should be happy for his son.

And… he was.

Legolas had found something that he had lost fairly recently. He prayed to the Valar that it would be a long time before his son lost Aragorn. That, in itself, was inevitable… unfortunately.

Aye, Legolas had chosen well.

The elf king turned around and silently left; a smile gracing the beautiful features.

"Legolas, calm down. There is no need to be so nervous," Aragorn said, trying to get his lover to relax.

They had spent nearly two months at Mirkwood since that was how long it took before Legolas could afford to take a break from his duties again; his broken arm had long since healed. It had only taken a few days really, for it hadn't been that bad of a break, luckily.

Aragorn had been having fun in Mirkwood. The king's support went a long way, of course, and with his approval he was able to wander freely around the grand halls and have a good time. He had also been allowed time with Legolas. He had snuck into his elf's room over night, not knowing that Thranduil had found out on the very first night of him doing so.

From now on, whenever he went to Mirkwood he would be welcomed with open arms, the exact opposite as before, and he – as well as Legolas – was incredibly glad over the situation.

Legolas, Aragorn and even Thranduil thought they should go back to Imladris and get Elrond's blessing on their relationship. Their main concern had been about Thranduil. Since they had gotten the stubborn elf king's consent they should have nothing to worry about. However, that didn't stop them from being nervous, especially Legolas. Aragorn wasn't that concerned over the matter. They still had a couple days left until they got there, though.

Therefore, Aragorn was trying to calm his lover down.

Legolas just looked over at the human skeptically. "How can I possibly be calm? If this goes anything like how it did with my father—"

"It will not, I promise," Aragorn reassured, cutting the blonde's words short.

Legolas' expression did not change as he continued to stare at the human.

Moving his horse closer to Legolas', Aragorn placed his hand on the elf's shoulder. "Trust me, please," he said.

The archer gave the ranger a small smile, relaxing slightly. "You know I do."

"Then there's nothing to worry about," Aragorn said with a wide grin.

Legolas chuckled lightly at his lover. He always cheered him up, every time, and he was grateful.

It was nearly nighttime and Aragorn decided that it was a good idea to stop earlier than they usually did. Legolas needed to fully relax and he was going to make sure it would last the whole night; even when he woke up.

As soon as he found a safe spot for the night, the human halted his horse and dismounted, letting Lor graze.

"What's going on?" Legolas asked in confusion, voice tinged with concern as well. They hardly ever stopped sooner than necessary.

"Nothing," the ranger answered a bit too innocently. "Just come join me." He grinned up at the still mounted elf.

Legolas stared at his lover cautiously, but did what he said nonetheless.

Going over to Aragorn, he wrapped his arms around the ranger's waist. "What did you have in mind?" he asked seductively, mouth mere centimeters from the human's.

"A bit of this…" Aragorn quickly brought his right hand against the archer's back, pulling him even closer, while his left was on the golden head as he sealed their lips with an eager kiss.

Legolas immediately melted into the kiss and his lover's body. It felt amazing to be able to do this freely again; whenever they wanted. Even if Thranduil now approved it did not mean he wanted to see them all over each other. Legolas didn't want to do any of it in front of him either so that actually worked out…

They broke apart breathing heavily, staring into each other's eyes with intense passion.

Finally able to sedate their need, Legolas gently pushed Aragorn down and straddled the heated body at the waist.

Grinding against Aragorn's hips, he could feel just how impatient he was.

The human's breathing hitched at the feel of Legolas moving on him.

"Why… why must you always… tease me?" he panted, the friction of their leggings against him not helping.

"What fun would it be if I stopped?" the archer asked with a mischievous smile. "You want me to stop, Estel?"

Aragorn groaned in displeasure when his elf did just that and stopped moving on top of him. "Nay, Legolas… do not stop. Don't stop," he pleaded.

The blonde slowly started again, moving up and down, up and down, slowly, too slow for the human.

"Please Legolas," he begged again. He grabbed a hold of the elf's hips and bucked his own against the archer's.

Legolas moaned at the feel of the human taking control. He could no longer stand it, neither of them could.

He quickly stripped himself of his tunic and took his lover's off, while the ranger continued to grind them together. It was no easy task while he tried to hasten the process and rid them of their restricting clothes.

Aragorn had briefly stopped his movements, undoing the laces to their leggings, trying to struggle out of them with his elf still on him.

Legolas quickly stood up on unsteady legs, and threw off the now too tight leggings.

Again, he straddled the human, but lower on his legs, while he teasingly took off his lover's leggings.

"You... are cruel," the ranger panted, watching the seductive blonde run his slender fingers along the inside of the human's leg, to his inner thigh, but it stopped short.

He pulled the leggings off the rest of the way and leaned forward, licking the spot where his fingers had just been on the inner thigh. "I know," he said with a smirk as Aragorn moaned beneath him.

"Legolas," the ranger hissed, urging the elf to hurry.

"Hm?" the elf asked, feigning innocence as he continued to lick and nibble higher and higher.

Aragorn moaned in pleasure and need as he forced the words out of his barely cooperating mouth. "Take me. Stop teasing and take me now," he demanded, needing to feel his lover inside him.

Hearing the desire and knowing Aragorn wouldn't be able to stand much more teasing; Legolas scooted farther up on the human, now straddling his waist again.

He leaned down and kissed the ranger, gasping in surprise when Aragorn suddenly wrapped his legs around him.

Their bodies melted into one as they gave in to their passion.

Aragorn and Legolas had entered Imladris and were now putting their horses in the stable as they heard an excited shout of their names.

They turned to be greeted by Elladan and Elrohir running towards them, Elrond walking calmly with a smile on his face behind them.

"Glad to have you two back," Elrohir said when he stopped in front of the two.

"Aye, it just is not the same without you," Elladan nodded, standing next to his twin.

"There was no one to blame for our pranks," the younger one said with a grin.

Aragorn and Legolas gave him a look of mock hurt.

"Is that all we are good for?" the archer asked.

"Nay," Elladan answered, "you are also good for being on the receiving end of our pranks."

Legolas put a hand on his chest. "That hurts, mellon-nin."

The twins smiled widely at the two, happy to have them back.

"Glad to see you were able to return, penneth," the elder elf spoke up. He now stood in front of Aragorn, but was still close to the archer, for the two stood close to each other, not even aware of doing so.

It had been nearly five months since they had left and he was starting to get worried, he had even thought that Aragorn was going to have to return by himself. Legolas had to be able to get another break from his responsibilities as prince, and after how long he had been gone before… He supposed it was reasonable. He really should have expected it to take a long time, and had, but not that long. It was very good to see them.

Looking at the two friends now, it was obvious they were in a great mood, and not from just being able to see them again either. They just had a joyful aura about them. Elrond was relieved to see it.

"And neither of you are injured?" the elder elf asked in disbelief.

Legolas and Aragorn laughed lightly, deciding to leave out their earlier episode. "Nay, for once we have returned unharmed."

"Thank the Valar! It's a miracle!" Elrohir shouted jokingly, arms raised.

Aragorn reached over and punched his brother playfully on the arm.

Elrond chuckled at his sons' antics. "Alright you two," he said settling them down. "It's almost time for the evening meal, how about we start a bit early today?"

The four quickly agreed, especially Aragorn and Legolas, for they had been quite distracted earlier that day since they knew it was going to be their last day alone for a while.

…………

It was only the five of them at the table during the evening meal and they had had a great time, joking and laughing the whole time; nearly choking a few times on food or drink.

Finally, when they were finished with the meal; thoroughly satisfied, Legolas and Aragorn glanced at each other in question and then nodded.

The twins and Elrond wondered what was going on and stopped their conversation. It was obvious this was a serious matter.

With everyone in such a good spirits this was probably the best time to say it… might as well tell everyone at the same time too. The problem was: how to start off. With Thranduil it had been easy enough since they had been in the middle of an argument and Legolas had not put much thought into it. However, this was a lot different. Everyone's gaze was focused on them. Also, they now had to think about what to say.

"What is it, penneth?" Elrond asked Legolas in concern. He looked more nervous than Aragorn and was fidgeting a lot more.

The human grabbed his elf's hand and entwined their fingers, squeezing reassuring. "We wish to tell you something," he started, forcing his nervousness back.

Elrond had noticed his youngest holding Legolas' hand and had seen it before as well. He knew of their relationship, or at least, was extremely suspicious of it since he had no proof. What he said before the two had left was all he had ever said about it, cryptic though it was.

Were the two finally going to tell them? He had to hide a smile at the thought. He was glad that they were going to open up at last, or so he hoped. Did Thranduil know?

"Go on," the elder elf urged with a nod.

Elladan and Elrohir only continued to watch the two in confusion. They, too, wondered if they were about to tell everything of them being together.

The three of them knew the two friends just too well.

"We wanted to tell you ourselves that we… are together… have been seeing each other," Aragorn said uncertainly.

The two lovers had both figured that they should just tell the others before they found out in a… interesting way… Nay, they did not need nor want that to happen again.

Once the human had finished speaking, a silence had filled the room. The fire crackling from the hearth was the only sound in the room besides their quiet breathing.

Legolas and Aragorn tensed, holding the other's hand tighter, not liking the reaction and unsure of what to make of it. They waited for what was to come.

All of a sudden a smile broke out on Elrond's face as he clasped the human's shoulder, who was the closest to him.

The twins also smiled warmly at the two.

"Thank you for telling us," the elf-lord said caringly, gently squeezing the ranger's shoulder. "I know it took a lot of courage."

The two lovers just sat there, staring agape at the elder elf, their hands had gone lax, barely together now from the surprise.

"I knew it!" Elrohir suddenly burst out.

Aragorn and Legolas just blinked at the younger twin.

"You did?" the human finally managed to force the words out. Well, that explained their reaction then. If Elrohir had known, then everyone else had. Elrond and Elladan were better at figuring these things out… not that it happened often…

"We all knew, or had our suspicions at least. You two cannot fool us," Elladan answered through his laughter.

"So none of you object…?" Legolas asked hesitantly, needing to be sure. It had been so hard for his father to accept; this was hard for him to believe.

"Of course not, penneth. Why would we?" Elrond asked in all seriousness.

"We are happy for you two," the younger twin added assurance, Elladan nodding in agreement.

"Did you tell your father?" the elf-lord asked softly, looking at Legolas.

The blonde sighed deeply. "Aye… well, he sort of… found out," he stated, a slight blush forming at the thought.

The other raised their eyebrows in question.

Aragorn nearly laughed at the identical expression on his family's faces.

Legolas shook his head. There was no way he was going to elaborate on that. "Let us just say he did not take the news well."

Aragorn snorted. That had been the understatement of the decade.

"But you have returned. And with Estel…" Elrohir said in confusion.

The archer looked over at the human with a smile. "Aye, he approves now." The joy in his heart flowed with his voice for all to hear.

Aragorn returned his lover's smile, wishing he could kiss him, but he would not do so in front of his family. Words could not describe how ecstatic he was that his father and brothers really had accepted their relationship and that they didn't have to try to convince them as well. It had nearly cost them Legolas' life before.

Elrond and the twins already thought of Legolas as family so this was no real change, especially since Legolas and Aragorn had stayed together many nights before when they were just friends.

"Let us retire for the night. I am sure you two had a long trip," Elrond said, looking at Legolas and Aragorn while standing up.

Elladan and Elrohir walked over to the two lovers; each put a hand on one of their shoulders. "It's good to have you back and in high spirits," the elder twin said with a smile, which was mirrored on his twin's face.

With that the two left for their rooms, the exciting night had come to an end.

Aragorn turned to his father, and hugged him, grateful for his support.

Elrond closed his eyes and returned the hug, glad to have his son back and, for once, in one piece.

Legolas watched the two with a mixture of happiness and sadness. It was extremely obvious that the human had missed his home a lot more than he had let on and he felt guilty for taking him away. He would have to do so again as well, for there was no way he'd be able to stay in Imladris forever, though he would love to. It was good to see the two together again, however.

Father and son broke their hug and Aragorn stood next to his elf, waiting for him.

"Hannon le," Legolas said quietly, but gratefully. He didn't know what else to say.

Elrond smiled and pulled the young elf into a caring hug. A hug that told Legolas not to worry anymore, one that told him he was accepted and always would be. Why would they push him out of their lives in the first place? There was no reason to do so.

"Now," the elder elf said still smiling, holding the archer at arm's length, "go get some rest."

Legolas returned the warm smile and with another "thank you" he left with Aragorn.

Elrond watched as the two left, one his son and the other one he had always considered a son; more so now than ever.

This time Legolas followed Aragorn to his room since neither of them were injured and none should expect him to do otherwise, for they now knew of their relationship – had known about it for… how long? Well, it mattered not; it was just such a relief. They had accepted it from the start. What was there to complain about that? Absolutely nothing.

Closing the door behind them, they got ready to turn in for the night.

Legolas smiled, feeling strong arms wrap securely around his waist. He leaned blissfully into the embrace, breathing in deeply.

"See, I told you everything would turn out alright," the human whispered into his elf's ear, nipping at the sensitive tip.

Legolas leaned his head back, bringing his hand up to the back of Aragorn's neck. Pulling his lover's face closer he said, "Iston; hannon le," before kissing him passionately.

Well, what did you all think? I'm actually quite pleased with it… well, most parts at least. Oh, and what did you think of the scene when they're alone in the forest again? n.n I'm trying to improve those scenes and I need to know how horribly I'm doing. -.- Please don't just say, "it sucked," and leave it at that. Let me know how I can improve it. n.n

Did ya like how long this was or do you think I should have just split it into two separate chapters? I thought that you all deserved a nice long one for the lack of updates, and this just seemed like it should be long for some reason. I thought about splitting it, but… it just… didn't seem right. ..:shrugs:..

So, this is also the last chapter. Yeah, sad, huh? Prob'ly not. -.- Wow, time flies, man, this has already been out for almost six months. Crazyness, I'm tellin' ya. XD Yeah… well, don't forget to let me know what you think of this, 'kay? I would greatly appreciate it if you would tell me. n.n And thanks to everyone that has reviewed in the past and to everyone who will review. n.n Your reviews are what kept this fic goin' and encouraged me to keep writing. Thank you. n.n

I will be posting more LotR fics in the future. I already have one planned out called Bound. There's a short preview for it in the last chapter (chapter 25) of Unforgivable Pain if you want to check it out. Bound isn't going to be slash, but I will have more that will contain it. LotR fics are the easiest to come up with, after all. n.n;; It just wouldn't fit for that one. ..:shrugs:..

Hope to hear from you all again. n.n Thanks again for all the wonderful reviews. Responses will be on the usual page (http/ www . geocities . com / indeath666 / rr . html), too, btw. I think I also confused myself with that somehow so… yeah. Btw, I figured out what I had done with the responses. Turned out that I forgot to respond to chapter fifteen entirely. XD Sorry 'bout that. They're up now, though, if you wish to check it out. n.n;; All the others are up as well. n.n

Thanks again everyone! Hope to see you in my next fic. n.n

Ja ne