Author's Note: Here is where I might lose some of you as readers. I did promise slashieness, and though this isn't a LOT of slashie, it's a bit. But I don't know if you wanted this particular pairing…. cough
Forgive me, if you can. Things are about to develop that you MIGHT have guessed, and might not have. Answers to some of the questions in your reviews are given here, but not all of them. I have to keep SOME surprises to myself, now don't I?
Italics are now mental speak. When this was first written, we'd used it. But at the time I first began posting the story, FanFiction didn't allow for the italics, so /…./ were used. Now that it's allowed, I'm keeping the italics, as it's annoying to have to go through and change everything all over again.
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Elrohir must have been dreaming for hours before the gentle splashing of droplets upon his forehead woke him... the rain had come in a soft trickle, the type of rain that whispered it might pour or disappear at any moment. "Mmm..." He stretched slightly, nuzzling into the leg his head still trapped; pleased to wake to both elves still so close, despite the time he must have been dozing. "Should we start heading in? We'll be soaked as it is, by the time we return." His voice was slightly groggy and soft from slumber, but clear enough to be understood and rouse his two companions if the rain had failed to do so.
Haldir lifted his head from Legolas throat, his eyes blinking a little as he tilted his gaze up as far as he could at the awkward position he was in, to peer at the weeping sky. Legolas had yet to move his head, for it seemed both of Haldir's hands were twined tightly in the golden strands of his hair.
"We may as well," the blonde prince agreed from where his head now lay, in the grass just beneath where it had originated from. "It's getting later by the minute. I have a feeling night is closer then the clouds would allow us to believe."
Haldir nodded a little sleepily and carefully pulled his hands free from their comfortable prison before he rose to sit. A hand reached down to caress Elrohir's hair back, as his head was now in his lap against his thigh. This earned the fingers a quick, gentle nuzzle before he lifted from Haldir's comfortable limb-turned-pillow. His nose wrinkled slightly, however, when a single drop landed squarely on the tip of that facial feature.
Legolas sat up as well, lifting his face to the falling water, for he was enjoying the feel of the gentle drops streaking patterns over the skin of his cheek, and his brow. His hands were moved to smooth down his mussed hair, and then he peered down at Elrohir with a soft smile. "And how was your nap? It seems you slept for ages. I don't think any of us will be tired when it is time for bed tonight," he chuckled, his eyes squinting just slightly from the tiny drops of water in his eyelashes.
Elrohir offered a bashful, blushing smile to the other prince at his question, shaking his head slightly. "It was peaceful... I remember a bit more... tiny pieces each time I let my mind drift for very long." And he had to chuckle as the notion of not being able to sleep was posed. He wouldn't believe such a thing, for it seemed the three elves could sleep whether tired or not, anywhere, so long as they were together. .
"Then we'll just have to find ways to pass the time, as I'm sure will be easy to do," he added to address the idea. And as he spoke, the rain began to fall a bit harder, not quite pouring then, but certainly doing a good job in soaking the three. He yelped after looking over Haldir's shoulder, and scrambled to his feet, collecting the cloths and leftover chicken, cheese, and berries, packing them quickly into the oiled, water proof bag that he'd originally packed them in.
Once done, a hand brushed a wet lock of hair from his cheek and he stood once more. "I hope no one minds soggy chicken and cheese..." A sheepish look was given before slinging his quiver onto his back, followed by the bag, then stood patiently to wait for Legolas and Haldir to get ready and offered an arm to each once they were. "Shall we go home, good sirs?"
Legolas quickly gathered his things and fastened his quiver about him before helping Haldir re-lace his tunic and fasten his quiver. "Ready as ever," Haldir said as Legolas curled an arm around one of Elrohir's, nodding to his question.
"What are we doing when we get back?" Legolas asked, raising his other hand to sweep his wet hair back from his forehead.
Haldir slid an arm around Elrohir and pressed a kiss to his temple as he encouraged them on. He was more than ready to get home out of this rain, for he could see that it was only going to fall harder. Yes, they would indeed be soaked through and through by the time they reached the stable. "I have a feeling drying off is on the list of things to do," the Marchwarden commented, calling slightly over the rain that seemed to be falling ever harder. His own hair was drenched, and plastered to his face and throat, some finding a way down the back of his shirt – which drew a shiver with its tickling. It was not the most comfortable he'd been, sorry to say.
Legolas was looking forward to getting back too; even though he loved the rain, there was only one thing he loved more, and that was getting into nice dry clothes and getting comfortable as the rain pattered against the roof of whatever shelter he happened to be in.
A soft laugh tumbled from Elrohir's lips, a kiss dropping upon each elf's cheek as they slung arms about him, quite happy to be cuddled as such. He even went so far as to give each shoulder a nuzzle here or there as they traveled back to the stables.
"There are some towels in the storage area... I can explain to Lorianna that we're soaked and don't want to track water everywhere... I'm sure she'll give us our dinner to take up to the stables gladly if it means she'll avoid cleaning up water from the floor of the house." Could he be any happier? Tomorrow, they'd spend more time with the children, for they would eventually take over for him, lessons would have to be learned within the stables, as well as with the elvish language and even some art-crafts if they so wished.
And for now, they trod back on light feet, enjoying the cool rain that continued to cascade down more heavily as time went by. By the time they reached the stables, the rain was coming down in sheets, drenching everything uncovered, and the wind had started to pick up. So much for just a passing shower! Apparently, the clouds wished to dump all of their contents directly on top of the little mountain valley. Elrohir knocked upon the door to the main house after detaching himself from Legolas and Haldir, who were told to wait in the stables so as not to get soaked, and if they decided to go upstairs, to remove their boots at the bottom of the stairs so mud wasn't tracked into his room. While they stayed in the warm, dry stables, Elrohir waited for the small, lidded pot of stew (about half of what had been made)made of chicken and dumplings, then kissed her cheek in thanks before bolting for the stables, wet hair swathing about him like something possessed, clinging to every wrinkle of his clothing and line of his body. His boots were kicked off once he'd reached the bottom of the stairs, bracing the pot in one hand (bowls were stacked on top, bottoms up to keep them from collecting rain and spoons were stuck in a pocket at his side) while pulling the drenched strands of midnight hued hair from his face once more, then set about climbing the wooden risers, glad to finally be dry.
When he arrived, he found that Legolas and Haldir stood together in his room, near the bed. Legolas was fully dressed still - save his boots - in his wet clothes, while Haldir stood shirtless, hugging the wet garment to his bare chest with one arm and the blonde prince to his side with his other. He was nodding to something Legolas had apparently said, staring at the floor thoughtfully. When he realized that Elrohir had entered he patted Legolas' side and smiled at the brunette. "Well, look. We don't have to. Here he is now."
Legolas raised his head from Haldir's shoulder and looked back at Elrohir, smiling brightly. "There you are!" he exclaimed, releasing his hold on the Marchwarden so he could go help him with the food and bowls. "We didn't want to rummage through your clothing without you here," he explained sheepishly, hands extended to take whatever would be offered to him. "It didn't seem the polite thing to do, at all."
Haldir nodded and laid his shirt and tunic out to dry before leaning over some to shake out the long locks of his hair, running his fingers through it some to pick out the few tangles and braids that were in it. When he stood straight again, it hung in long, damp strings around him freely. "What's that?" he asked curiously of the pot, coming towards them in his inquisitveness. It smelled good, whatever it was.
Elrohir only chuckled, setting the steaming pot upon his dresser, nudging the sword that usually lay upon the wooden furniture out of the way (though not disrespectfully), so that the pot had room before twisting to face Legolas, brows raised. "You now have my permission to rummage whenever you wish, though I think you'd like towels just as much right about now." He made a gesture to his dresser, giving them a "go ahead" signal for them to pull out something to sleep in while he headed for the storage room to the back and side of the main area, the doorway virtually hidden behind one of the four beds that typically lined the back walls. A moment later, he was tossing off-white, quite fluffy towels on the heads of his friends, carrying out two more for them, as well as two for himself. It took more than a single towel to dry his own hair and body when he got wet, and he knew it would be a similar story for Haldir and Legolas, for their hair was the same length as his own.
As for Haldir's question, his response came with a tickle of amusement. "Chicken and dumpling stew. You can help yourself if you're hungry, and there are still some berries left over from lunch." He stood near the three beds still at the back of his room and peeled the sopping tunic he wore off, giving a shiver as cool air touched damp skin. True, elves weren't bothered much by temperature changes... but they did feel them, and it didn't mean they -liked- to be cold and soaked. It just meant they could deal with it better than humans could. "I can't wait to get into something dry... I feel like a drowned rat." He set his wet tunic out on one of the abandoned beds before shuffling over to the other two, eager for the warmth their nearness provided, even if he was deprived of contact for the moment while they chose night-clothes.
Legolas drops his hands as they were politely denied – Elrohir seemed to already have plans in mind of how to free his own limbs of the items – then looked to Haldir, watching him as he examined the stew for just a second before a towel was tossed over his head. "Thank you." he chuckled, pulling it off and rubbing his face with it gently. A moment later he set it down so that he could undress.
Haldir left his towel on his head as he pulled a drawer open, digging out what he'd borrowed before. After he changed, he sat himself on the bed with a bowl of stew, dressed in only leggings as he watched Legolas comb his hair out. It was pretty tangled from Haldir's hands in it earlier.
"Remind me to never let you touch my hair again," Legolas huffed, eyebrows furrowed as he puts his comb away, and looked to the Marchwarden who was arching a brow, and smiling slightly.
"You weren't complaining then," the warden commented, looking back to his food. Legolas turned red and hugged his towel around his bare shoulders. A glance was cut to Elrohir before he went to get his own stew, having changed by now as well. Apparently, Legolas had no come back for that, as he didn't say anything in reply. "So am I correct in assuming that this is what we're doing for the rest of the night?" Haldir asked hopefully. He figured it must be, and he was glad. It'd been a nice relaxing day.
Elrohir gave a light nod of his head before kneeling down in front of his dresser and pulling out a pair of leggings for himself and swiftly changing, tossing the wet clothing over to the abandoned beds to dry. Once done, he served himself a bowl of stew, his two towels draped over a bare arm till he could set his bowl down. After sitting beside Haldir, he carefully placed the bowl upon his bed, resting the container against his leg to prevent it from spilling, then gave a harsh nod to his head, keeping it bent downward as his hair flew from his back to drape over his face and hang in
front of him like a curtain. One of the towels was taken out and quickly wrapped, turban-style, around the sopping tresses before securing it by flipping his cloth-wrapped hair back into it's normal position of hanging down, trapping the fabric from unwinding by the very weight of the hair inside it. It was a trick the lady of the house at the time, Gwendolyn, had taught him shortly after his arrival, though he had no idea if it was widely used by anyone else. It worked, though, and that was all that mattered. "Yes, we're here for the rest of the night, to tangle like hobbits (which he finally could picture in his mind!) and talk of anything you wish." He plucked his bowl back up, eating the stew slowly... enjoying the heat of the food as the cool rain poured down outside. "I have to say... I don't think I've enjoyed a rain storm as much as I am this one."
"Nor I," Legolas admitted as he sat down with his stew, lounging cross-legged with them.
Haldir finished his bowl and hopped up to take the empty container over to the dresser, sitting it down and out of their way. For a long moment he stood there, looking out at the rain thoughtfully, fingertips pressing against the top of the dresser lightly. Legolas peered over and watched him for a minute before turning his attention back to Elrohir, and settling more on the bed to finish his dinner. "It seems we have taken kindly to the ways of the hobbit. Next we will be eating meals 7 times a day," he teased light-heartedly.
Haldir smiled and looked over at them, an eyebrow arching slightly. "I don't think you could eat that much Legolas," he accused.
Legolas nodded at that, arching a brow. "I don't think so either. You on the other hand..." Haldir laughed and wandered back. "Yes, I could," he agreed regretfully, lying out on his back in any available space on the bed. He patted his stomach for emphasis, leaving his hand there for the time being. The blonde prince poked him between two of his fingers, and then looked to Elrohir, smiling.
"It must be because he's so tall," he whispered playfully, his eyes twinkling in mirth. Haldir closed his eyes and grinned. Half of that statement was true. Haldir was indeed very tall, as the meaning of his name would clearly state. Though, Haldir doubted if that had anything to do with him being able to eat all day.
Elrohir only grinned as he brought another bite of the hearty stew, finishing his smallish portion off and setting his own bowl upon the dresser by Haldir's discarded one before returning and sprawling himself across both Haldir's and Legolas' legs, his head craned backward only inches past the prince's legs, to rest upon the bed. He had, of course, made sure that the blonde wasn't about to spill the bowl he held when he did so, but their laps looked so inviting, and he certainly didn't feel like worming his way between the two again. "One would think if we kept this up, we would all shrink a few feet and live in little holes in hills!" And while he lay upon the blonde royal's lap, he ran his fingers through already drying strands of gilded sunlight, toying with the tips of each lock, quite comfortable where he was.
"What indoor activity shall we engage in tonight? Perhaps a song?" the query was given, peering over each curiously. After all, they were his guests first and foremost, not to mention they might know some games or stories to tell to pass the time besides just cuddling. Maybe they knew songs? There were only a few tunes the humans had here, though some travelers had taught him some less polite, boisterous lark she would not wish to repeat in polite company. Besides - their voices were like honey, sweet and clear and rich. He knew before even hearing a single note that each would have quite a nice singing voice. But... he let them decide. He would be content simply laying here till sleep claimed them if they wished.
"Well, I can tell you right now Haldir wouldn't sing if you begged him to," Legolas said matter- of- factly. "We caught him singing once while he was bathing, and he was more than embarrassed to have been discovered. Remember that?" he inquired of Haldir, looking back at him and giggling softly.
"Unfortunately," Haldir replied, his voice very bland to show that he still wasn't fond of recalling it. He frowned slightly now, his eyes still closed.
"He was singing a lullaby, swimming around with quite a large pile of leaves on his head, and long blades of grass braided into his hair..." Legolas tried to explain, having a hard time doing so for the giggles that were erupting between words.
Haldir reached up and clamped his hand firmly over the prince's mouth with a sigh, so he couldn't go on. "Elrohir is charmed I'm sure, but can we find something else to do, than recall embarrassing memories about me?" he asked.
Legolas shook his head, pulling his hand away, and taking a final bite of his stew. "But that one is so funny..." Legolas insisted before he tried to sing the song. "Pile the leaves, I become the tree. With a braid of grass, the land. With a dip in the water I become the fish. All go hand in hand..." Again Legolas' mouth was covered, and he allowed Haldir to shut him up this time, preferring to have a good laugh at the warden's expense instead.
"It wasn't a lullaby. It was a rhyme our mother made up to get us to take a bath," Haldir hissed in irritation. "She would get us good and dirty for the first part, and then use the last part to lure us into the water."
Legolas was still laughing as he patted Elrohir gently to get him up, so he could take his bowl to the dresser. "That still doesn't explain why you had a pile of leaves on your head in your adulthood," he pointed out.
"Oh, hush." Haldir sighed.
Elrohir only smiled lightly at the image that he drew in his mind of what Legolas described, and actually pouted when the Marchwarden silenced the other. I don't know if Legolas is right calling it "funny", Haldir... I actually like the picture that would make... like some forest spirit, more so than any human could imagine... He murmured mentally toward the Warden before lifting himself at the nudge to rise. He twisted to snuggle against the sprawled form of Haldir, flopping off his waist to wriggle into the sheets. Legolas' memory was probably colored by how he felt toward Haldir at the time, for until recently, he would jump at any chance to poke fun of the other elf. If he had seen Haldir now in the same condition, perhaps the prince would not have thought it so much as funny than beautiful and heartwarming, as well as quite cute.
"Do you know any other, less off-limits songs, Legolas? I fear all I know are men's drinking songs and lullabies, neither having much meaning, and the former a bit too raunchy for my taste... Or Haldir? I know Legolas said you won't sing, but I'm sure you have a nice voice for it." His tone lacked a plea, for he didn't wish to win a song out of pity for him. Though - it never hurt to compliment. He simply waited for the prince to join them both once more, eyes already falling closed once more as he nuzzled into the Marchwarden's shoulder. "Or stories! You both have so many wonderful tales of the past..."
Legolas hopped up gracefully, taking his bowl to set it with the other two. As he turned around, he heard Elrohir's request and cleared his throat, as if asking for attention, before singing. "Gil-Galad was an Elven-king. Of him the harpers sadly sing: the last whose realm was fair and free, between the mountains and the sea." He smiled and hopped back over, jumping onto the bed playfully before he continued. He stood upon his knees, and leaned towards them. "His sword was long, his lance was keen, his shining helm afar was seen; the countless stars of heaven's field, were mirrored in his silver shield." He leaned ever closer and closer to Elrohir as he sang, until he bit his nose playfully with a smile, and then turned his attention on Haldir, who covered his face, smiling. "But...long ago, he rode away," He paused and looked between them both, a wistful look upon his face before he shrugged, "and where he dwelleth, none can say; for into darkness fell his star, in Mordor where the shadows are."
With that Legolas fell to his side, his forearm draped over his eyes dramatically, on the other side of the Marchwarden. Haldir chuckled and offered a clap to the prince, then hugged Elrohir to his side and pressing a kiss to his temple. Legolas sat up and smiled at the brunette. "Your father was a friend of Gil-Galad's," he uttered.
Almost childish was Elrohir's delight, nose wrinkling at the nip upon the skin, before offering a light round of applause to mix with Haldir's. The darker blonde had a beautiful voice, he had to admit, and it had entranced him as much as the vibrant expressions and playful demeanor of his friend. But then he was being squished in a very welcomed manner against Haldir, to which he rested his head upon the other's shoulder in both affection and comfort.
"He was...? When we sail to the Undying Lands," the wayward Lordling began, for it was a "when" in his mind now, more than it ever was before, "would he be able to tell me more? If I don't remember it all myself by then?" His eyes were glistening with hope as they glanced between Haldir's strong features and Legolas' delicate ones. There was so much he didn't know yet... so much he wanted filled in. So many stories that were probably taught to him as a child that now were lost. It was a tragedy, he surmised. A tragedy to lose such wonderful tales, in addition to all of his past, which was only coming back in bits and pieces.
"The children are right, though... you tell stories with such amazing animation... you're quite enchanting, Legolas." A hand snaked out to brush along the fair prince's slender jaw line, before elegant fingers extended further to beep his nose teasingly. "You could keep anyone enrapt for hours if you wished, I think."
"You're too kind, really," Legolas insisted gently, smiling as his nose was pressed. "I tell stories the way I would want them told to me." To him, the logic seemed easy enough, and a slight shrug of his shoulder was offered before he lay back again, nudging his way under Haldir's arm to use his shoulder as a pillow. He placed a hand on the Lothlórien elf's broad chest, leaning up to nuzzle his jaw a little. After, he rested his chin on the top of his own hand, staring at the brunette elf across from him. Poor Haldir. I think he's permanently become a pillow, he voiced to Elrohir silently. With a lift of his eyebrows and a slight smile. Haldir didn't seem to mind, and if he noticed the silent exchange at all, he didn't act as such. He had two handfuls of hair, one half light, the other half dark, to keep him preoccupied if it what was what he wanted. But right now, he just held the two against him quietly, listening to the rain in contentment and staring up towards the ceiling.
Legolas pressed his lips to the top of his own hand, and looks off towards where the window is, wishing he could see out of it from here. He was content with it though, the way it was. If he wanted to see the rain that much, all he had to do was get up.
"Kind? No more than you deserve." The words were uttered warmly as Elrohir was near-cradled against Haldir's side, though he'd not complain. He enjoyed the position! He chuckled softly into the strands of silvern blonde at Legolas' comment. He doesn't seem to mind one bit... came the humored reply, gazing in mirth over the expanse of the Marchwarden's chest to meet the pale prince's. If he did, I fear we would be on the floor right now, and not entirely sound of body. This earned a quick smile from Legolas, who nodded slightly. But both were indeed glad that Haldir had welcomed them to him.
Elrohir found himself more than reluctant to give up the warmth provided along his skin as he lay along the Galadhrim's side. But he makes such a nice pillow, doesn't he? Warm and comfortable... He seemed in utter bliss as he described how perfect their companion was as a head-rest, all the while nuzzling the flesh beneath his cheek. His body stiffened, however, when a crack of thunder laced the air, drawing startled whinnies from the horses below, as well as causing his own heart to skip a few beats.
That had not been expected!
A soft kiss was placed upon each of his companions' cheeks before he stood and, barefoot, turned to make his way down to the stables. "I'll be back soon... but the stable doors should be closed now, or the horses may panic with the lightning." And so he pattered down into the lower half of the building, slipping his boots on and not bothering to lace them as he darted into the rain
to pull the doors to the large structure closed. Once the heavy wood had been moved to close the portal, and a plank placed in it's hold to bar it, he kicked his boots back off at the foot of the stairs and scampered aloft once more, the top half of him glistening a bit from the rain that had managed to soak his hair once more. His leggings, thankfully, were only slightly dampened due to his short time outside, but he looked as if it were possible, he would smite the storm itself. "I fear this is going to get a bit worse tonight... before it gets better..."
Legolas had been agreeing silently with Elrohir's words when the thunder awakened and startled them all. Haldir was the only one that seemed immune to the jump Legolas and Elrohir had shared.
Haldir and Legolas both watched as their warmth was compromised at Elrohir's exit, and then looked to one another quietly, before Haldir was looking towards the window at a flash of lightning. "If you sit still, you can feel the light flash before it comes," he informed Legolas softly, hugging him gently back to his side. "Almost like a rush of something inside you..." Legolas looked up at him thoughtfully, and then closed his eyes to accept the kiss bestowed upon his forehead. Light fingers curled into the ends of Haldir's hair.
"Yes," he agreed, "I've felt it before, though I was not paying attention then..." He looked up as Elrohir reappeared and smiled slightly when Haldir turned his head to peer at him also. "Looks like you've been blessed with the rain again," the blonde Prince commented in jest.
Blessed with the rain? Perhaps, but it usually ceased to be a blessing when one was warm and dry after already experiencing one "blessing"... and he certainly looked a bit upset at exactly how wet the pouring rain had made him in such a short amount of time.
"Yes, yes... the rain has blessed me again, Legolas... but I can't help but feel guilty keeping such a prize all to myself..." With a grin curling his lips, he moved gracefully to lay directly upon the darker blonde's dry form, certain to share the "blessing" quite generously with the teasing Silvan elf and careful not to send too many stray droplets upon Haldir, who at least till that point had been innocent of jests. A light, rain-soaked kiss was placed upon the other prince's cheek before he finally alighted and found a not-too-damp towel to chase at least a good part of the water that had not found a home on Legolas off his own form before once more joining the two and taking his place at Haldir's free side once more.
"Was the blessing to your liking, fair and lovely Prince, or should I go and fetch some more, for I admit there is ample blessing falling from the heavens and will continue to do so for some time." He kept a straight face through the entire "lecture" before dissolving into giggles, unable to hold the laughter in once he'd stopped speaking, for he knew as much as Legolas enjoyed the rain, he would have the same offense toward becoming wet immediately after drying off and getting warm again, and the shock or returning tease from the beautiful elf would be reason enough to do what he did.
For a long moment, Legolas just laid there, a completely appalled look upon his handsome features, as Haldir laughed out right at his predicament, and quite immediately pushed him away from him. Legolas quickly sat up, holding his arms out as he gasped, and looked down at the water that was glistening on his form, then in the next moment shifted his gaze to the two elves that seemed to think it was so entirely hilarious.
"Oh, you think it funny do you?" he asked matter-of-factly, quickly moving to his knees. Haldir took this as his cue to get away quickly, and rolled over half on top of Elrohir (The half farthest from the Prince), looking to Legolas warily.
"Keep away from me," he warned, "or I'll pick you up, and carry you out in it myself."
Legolas' face had a challenging look about it. "Would you? I'd like to see you try. I'd knock you down the steps before you could." The threat came only a second before the darker blond lunged at them both,
accidentally knocking Haldir into the floor as Legolas himself landed square on top of Elrohir, hugging him to his wet body.
"Oomph!" Haldir grunted as he landed, appalled that he hadn't caught himself. Of course, he hadn't been expecting it. But none the matter, he was on his feet again before either of them could bat an eyelash.
"Why you..." the Marchwarden hissed. Legolas' eyes were wide as he was laughing, unable to help himself and completely amused by their antics. "I didn't mean to..." He started, clinging to Elrohir in case Haldir tried to pull him off. But amazingly enough, Haldir didn't bother - he just turned bright red and stalked off across the room to the other beds, obviously intent on sleeping there that night.
Elrohir's eyes went wide as Haldir shifted and nearly squashed him, then grunted moments after the weight was lifted only to be replaced by a playfully furious Legolas, groaning as he lay limply upon the mattress. "I will never again compare weight to the damage you can do when crashing onto something... or someone..." He grumbled slightly, but held the prince carefully against him, sulking a bit as Haldir stormed off to the other beds.
"Oh, Haldir... please don't go. We can bind Legolas' hands and feet so he can do no more damage, if it will make you feel safe enough to come back..." though he made no move to unseat the bundle of limbs that lay quite balanced upon him. He knew Haldir would relent soon enough, though he didn't understand how he knew this.
You know... He probably could carry you outside if he wished... you're lucky he was just joking. The reminder was sent to gently chide the warm form above him, as if to pull some sort of apology from the light archer to the sulking Marchwarden he chased off. Even with the chastising, he leaned in to press a light kiss upon Legolas' cheek, nuzzling there a moment or two before leaning back once again, unwilling to move just yet. Legolas had indeed bruised him a bit when he collided against him, but it wasn't very bad, just smarted a little.
"Orcs beware the cuddling Legolas..." He chuckled lightly, lifting a hand to run through the damp, blonde locks of the snuggling being that clung to his form, despite the fact he knew he shouldn't be comforting the prince rather than Haldir... but then, Legolas was laying on top of him, and Haldir was now all the way across the room!
Legolas was giggling, still unable to help it as he stared over at Haldir to see if he was really going to stay over there. It looked like he really was, as he was depositing himself under the blanket of the bed he'd chosen, refusing to look over there at the younger elves cuddled on the bed. The blonde prince shook his head with a sigh, then turned his eyes down to look upon Elrohir, lightly shaking his hair to caress against the side of his face.
I know he could. But I also know he wouldn't because that would mean that he'd have to get wet again, worse than I would have gotten him in the first place. He informed Elrohir silently, pressing his cheek to the Lordling's lips to accept the kiss. It was apparent that he wasn't going to apologize right away.
Carefully, the archer shifted his weight to get more comfortable on top of the warm figure, and following that he nestled his face into the dark hair, purring a content sigh as he does so. "And another thing - I would be sad if I was tied up," he added off handedly, leaning up just a little to peer at him with a slight pout. "I don't think I would like that at all." He threaded his fingers through the other's dark hair slightly, holding the dark damp strands deftly between his fingers.
Elrohir chuckled and leaned in to press a very quick, chaste peck upon the pout Legolas gave, shaking his head in merriment. "You should not pout, for it gives you an unfair advantage over your enemy, though I fear I would have to tie you if Haldir refuses to return otherwise. Perhaps if you promise not to unseat him from the bed again? After all, this is the second time you've done so, and the first time I'm quite certain was deliberate." He was laughing still, though quietly, and kept his comfortable friend steady above him, not wishing to knock him from his place. He only
smiled softly as the pale prince toyed with the obsidian strands that licked and stuck to him in damp display, refusing, it would seem, to dry properly.
"I don't know about you, but I would miss his presence tonight... I've grown used to having the two of you here..." That much was true. He, in the short two nights they'd spent here, had grown so attached to spending the night (or simply spare hours) tangled with the two that the idea of one of them sleeping alone again was somewhat shocking. Almost as much as the flash of lightning that lit the stables through his window and the crackling roar of thunder that made the structure itself shake. And of course, that particular combination of harsh sound and bright light drew a startled meep from his lips, tensing for a moment once more. He'd managed to ignore the thunder after the first one till now... but no one could ignore that. Still, his startled action was much better than the squeaking jump he'd performed at the first crack.
Legolas tried to keep the smile from finding his face when Elrohir mentioned the first time he'd knocked Haldir from the bed, but alas, it was of no use. It seized his features, lighting them the way the lightning lit the sky. "Just for future reference, I wouldn't let you tie me up." He informed the other in jest, leaning down slightly so as to gently nudge his nose with his, closing his eyes as he remained with it pressed there for the time being.
"The only way I think Haldir would come back over here is if I agreed to sleep out in the storm." He chuckled softly, shaking his head as Haldir made a grunt from his bed to show that that scenario was probably true. To that, Legolas opened his eyes to peer into the grey depths of his friend's, an eyebrow arching slightly. "You wouldn't make me sleep out in the storm would you?" He inquired hopefully, and again pouted effectively. Adding to this persuasion, he rubbed his cheek to Elrohir's gently and even trailed a few kisses over it. "I would be so cold and lonely, and wet, and--!" CRACK! Legolas jumped slightly with the thunder and paused his movement, clutching the brunette just a little tighter, lips pressed to his cheek.
Haldir, for his part, lay in the bed with fingers twined under his head as he looked towards the window, watching the storm and a little impressed with it's fury. The storm was a sure blessing, he thought. Seeds would be sewn from the wind, and watered with the rain. New trees would grow, and crops replenished.
Elrohir had calmed moments after the sharp sound, and began to soothe the blonde clinging to him as soon as his own heart ceased its pounding. That was too close to the village for comfort! But even with the storm raging outside, he found it impossible not to relax with the tiny kisses and gentle gestures Legolas was bestowing - knowingly or not - to his face and hair. He only hoped that the majority of the storm hit south of them and did not move north into the mountains... floods were common, and though the town typically remained safe, he'd seen it destroyed twice in the past three hundred years or so. But that normally came after the storm left. They would be safe till daylight from such things, if it dared happen.
A sigh chased those ideas out of his head, though, and he squirmed a bit, edging himself (and Legolas as well, for the elf seemed like a burr upon him) a bit more correctly upon the bed, pulling the blankets up and over both their forms before looping his arms about the other prince's waist, holding him loosely as night began to settle upon them, sleep hardly seeming an option with the noise that continued to clatter outside. "I wouldn't let either of you out in that storm tonight... even knowing you enjoy a rain shower. It'd be dangerous, even for an elf..." Came the assurance to the Mirkwood archer's earlier complaint, lashes closing as his head found a pillow. He would not sleep... not till the storm died down a bit, but he certainly felt languid, even as tense as the harsh sounds outdoor made him, with the warmth that radiated from above him.
"Good," Legolas murmured, allowing himself to be moved around, though he made no effort to help at all, too lazy right now to even try. As soon as Elrohir's head had found a pillow, Legolas buried his face in it, beside his head, seeming to shift his body slightly on top of him to get more comfortable. It was starting to become painfully obvious that Legolas was probably planning on sleeping right where he was.
"You don't think it will flood do you?" he asked, his voice and breath soft against the dark elf's ear as he asked his slightly concerned question. Perhaps he had picked up the stray thoughts from Elrohir's mind, or perhaps it was simply that – like Elrohir – he had seen a number of floods in his own day. He raised his head so his voice wouldn't be muffled by the material, and bit Elrohir's earlobe softly, holding the flesh gently between his teeth.
Haldir glanced over at them, hearing the question posed. He, too, was pondering the answer to that question. Hopefully the storm was dropping its load here, and had lost nothing in the mountains. It was heading east-south-east, that much he was sure of, but whether it'd rained or not before here, he couldn't be sure. For all he knew, the clouds could expand for leagues to the north, and they could all be in trouble. A flood would pose to be a problem, what with the river not too far off as well. When they'd passed it, it'd seemed that the water level was relatively low, but it went on into the mountains, and could easily rise with added water.
Elrohir's steady breath came short at the mention of a flood, Legolas putting to words the silent fear that plagued him. "If the storm turns north, or is extended northward... it has in the past. I've no doubt it might again." Despite the fact that the other elf could easily cut off the circulation to any portion of his body, his companion seemed to manage not to cause too great a discomfort, and so he was still welcomed against him. More so with the cracking and rolling of thunder, the howling of wind, and the splattering of rain that never seemed to wish to cease. And then came the tiny nibble upon his earlobe, which drew him tense for an entirely different reason. One he was uncertain if Legolas was aware of.
He forced his breathing to steady, fighting off the faintest of pleasant murmurs, fingers lifting to sift through the other prince's hair tenderly. Unless you wish to give Haldir further discomfort, I would not do that again, dear friend... It was a gentle, teasing warning, but a warning nonetheless. If Legolas did that again, all thoughts of being dumped out of bed would surely leave Haldir's mind, for Elrohir would not be able to keep his mouth in check. Thank heavens the elf had not gone for the slender tip of his ear! "If it does flood, it will hit tomorrow afternoon... it takes at least a half a day, usually a bit longer, for the water to accumulate in the creeks first..."
Slight was the smile that found Legolas' lips as he still held gently to the elf's earlobe. This was curious, and truth be known, he wasn't quite sure what to do. He knew what he wanted to do...but...It probably really wasn't what he should do. Not that what he'd already done was something he should have done. And yet it seemed not to matter to him then. And...not that it really mattered to him now either. Elrohir had practically made it irresistible by saying 'Unless you wish to give Haldir further discomfort...'
"What happens here if it does flood?" he breathed in question, tracing his parted lips over the shell of his ear to nipping gently at the side of it. Then that warm mouth moved to the tip of the same ear as the fingers of one hand traced their tips from his hair, and over his throat gently. Honestly! This was bad. He shouldn't do it. But by the Valar, he wanted to! Haldir was not lost to this at all, and was watching in obvious curiosity from his bed across the room, eyebrow arched, the slightest bit of amusement playing on his features. Well, well, well. This wasn't exactly what he'd been expecting to find when he'd made a glance over.
Oh, Valar help him! He quivered... moaned softly as his ear was attacked by the gentle mouth of Legolas, his touch... The prince would drive him mad if he continued this any longer. But he struggled to keep his mind from falling into the alluring sensations, focusing upon the question asked of him. "We go to high ground... then rebuild. I... it doesn't flood all that often in human perspective... once every century or so, and the ground is too fertile to give up because of it."
His breathing was hitched now, unable to stop the tiny trembling from invading his voice. The sensations, delightful as they were, didn't seem very appropriate, despite his wish to continue. What of Haldir? Would he be put out by their display? Even his worries couldn't stop him from nuzzling the light fingers that brushed from his ear, over the back of his cheek and down his throat. Madness! Im aníra le, Legolas... He didn't trust his voice any longer, the thought cast to
the sunlight above him, lips brushing the smooth flesh of the archer's shoulder, the only place they could reach, in a tender show of affection. Had Haldir been there, he would have been blessed with the same words, for Legolas had found a sweet-spot... common among elves, and there was no denying its, and Legolas', effects upon him. Love? No.. no.. not yet. Not quite. But desire? Of course. More now than ever.
Would Haldir now come back? For now that Legolas had begun, he was not sure if it would cease, and he certainly did not wish to leave the Marchwarden alone.
"Garo-nin" Legolas whispered softly, letting his voice and his warm breath tease Elrohir's ear further as his fingers traced over the line of his collar bone. He let his eyes close, turning his face towards the dark elf more as he traced his nose gently over Elrohir's elegant cheek bone, a kiss being pressed to his jaw before he nibbled at it. He felt that Haldir couldn't be bothered by it. Surely the silver-tongued elf would have made some interruption by now if it did. It was Haldir's way. If he didn't like something, he was vocal about it. If he didn't mind it, he said nothing.
Carefully, his fingers trailed up, caressed the tender flesh beneath his chin as he opened his eyes to look at his companion. He studied the familiar curve of his jaw, the almost pointed arch of his brows, and the fall of his eyelashes against his cheeks when he closed his eyes. How odd it seemed to him that he'd seen this face countless times, it was somehow new to him. It seemed quite unfair.
Haldir had taken to looking at his map, propped up on one elbow as he gazed down at it with a look of pure amusement on his face. No, he wasn't bothered by it. He wasn't really sure yet what to make of it. It didn't really seem appropriate to cheer them on, now did it? And he certainly wouldn't stomp about the room saying 'No! Me first!' Good Elbereth, he was not that sort of elf.
"Ah glass..." (With joy.) And his arms did tighten, holding the form as one would cling to the summer sun after a frost, fingers trickling their touch along the blonde elf's back, twining and untwining through satin-glossed strands of golden hair. Quivering, whispered murmurs of pleasure fainted from his lips as kisses were and nips were feathered along his jaw, drowning in what emotions and sensations Legolas stirred within. Surely he would melt, should the archer continue, for his body already felt as boneless as a puddle.
Yet, how could he at the same time be as tense as a drawn bowstring?
For he was that as well, gaze warm as lids flickered open, meeting that of the fair prince in complete welcome. Silvers flashed in anticipation, in curiosity... wondering silently what the elf that lay above him wished to do about their newest arrangement. Mítha-nin? (Kiss me?) His request came in an almost timid manner, pleading and hopeful as one only just entering their adult life instead of the thousands of years each of them had lived through.
Did Legolas even wish to grant his request? He doubted and dreaded at the same time that this might have all been some experiment... but still he remained hopeful, lips kept within the soft smile that lay upon them earlier. How could he not smile? He had a playful, beautiful, delightful and caring elf lying against him, causing all sorts of trembling through him!
Legolas returned the smile softly and leaned down towards his old friend, brushing his parted lips gently over Elrohir's. "You never have to ask," he whispered faintly before capturing and claiming his mouth in a soft kiss, letting it linger for just a moment as a shiver streaked through his body. But all at once he was pulling his mouth away, only to tilt his head the other way, and cover his lips again - this time firmer, and more certain of himself. His chest rose slightly so he could better position his hands, running them gently up Elrohir's chest, and over his throat to frame his face with them.
As it happened, he was a little disbelieving that he'd gotten up the nerve to pursue it, though he had to admit to himself that he'd wanted to kiss him even before now. It was hard to ignore the dark elf's odd beauty. Even as he looked like Elladan, there were distinct differences between them that it seemed only those
closest to them took notice of. What those differences were however, would have to wait to be described, because Legolas couldn't really fashion coherent thoughts at the moment to do it.
As for Haldir? His map had been put away, and he now lay on his stomach, the blanket pulled up over his head as he stared into the darkness of it, willing sleep to find him...and find him fast. While he was glad they'd discovered mutual attraction, he couldn't help feeling that he'd be happier to be blessedly unaware in dreams – and not because he was feeling left out. Oh no. It was more so that he didn't feel so much like a peeping tom.
But oh, how Elrohir ached with the sweetness. Like rain falling upon parched land, he drank in the kisses like they were life itself, exploratory fingers rising along the silvan's back to brush along the back of his head, tangling close within the threads of sunlight there. It was sweeter than nectar, kissing Legolas. Each nerve seemed to sing, sending his stomach aflutter and spurring the urge to hold him that much closer.
Glî-nín... my daylight... Yes, he was rambling, the heartfelt words tumbling between them unspoken, unable to stop them. Finally, the kiss ended and lashes once again rose to gaze upon the fair prince, eyes sparkling as lips once again smiled.
"You threaten to steal my breath away..." He whispered, fingers trailing away from behind the elf to brush along his cheeks, enrapt with the feel of the other's skin, the slightest of contrasts in the color of their flesh, how utterly beautifully Legolas' eyes twinkled. The storm, almost forgotten, gave another reminder that it was still quite a danger, the entire room lighting up as yet another bolt struck near by, the very air around them seeming electrified... and not just by the two elves cuddled together on the bed. Though Elrohir did tense slightly, he only chuckled afterward, nuzzling into the curve of his companion's throat, placing a few soft kisses there before leaning back once more. "You look beautiful in the lightning... wild and so very alive..."
The kiss gifted to Elrohir was over too soon, though it seemed to last forever in his mind. He could still taste him on his lips, could feel the closeness of his face, his breath, even his heart beating against his own chest. But it was right that it ended when it did. Good that it'd stopped when it had, because he feared that had it gone any further, he would be lost to whatever designs formed between them. He might not have been able to stop as easily. As it stood, it'd been very hard to accept the kiss fading then. The hands that he'd lost in the dark strands of his hair at some point, were eased out to place gentle caresses over his companions cheek bones.
"And if I stole your breath, I would give you my own," he whispered, eyes burning brightly with new found interest that had been there before, but so faint it'd been unrecognizable, even to his own heart. Was it love? No. Not yet. Not so soon, but it was understanding that more could be begotten from it. He'd always thought he'd understood the Marchwarden's silent love and intense protectiveness for this twin. But never then did he grasp it as well as he could now. And then the compliment. "The lightning makes you appear dark, and mysterious. Like some beautiful and shadowed face peering at me from the sea of black that is your hair," he responded in kind. And as the kisses were placed upon his throat, he caught, out of the corner of his eye, the tight covered bundle Haldir's hidden form made in his bed across the room, and it made him smile. Haldir is hiding. Look at him in his curled up nest. I am temped to go oust him again, if only to see the fire light in his eyes. He admits silently, and sheepishly.
Elrohir could have cried. And he certainly would have if he hadn't gently pulled the other back down for one more kiss, only to nuzzle against the other's cheek moments later, listening to the soft, bell tones of the archer's voice. If allowed, Elrohir would listen to Legolas talk for hours on end, just to hear that voice, though the same could be said for Haldir. It was the only regret he had of sleep.
At Legolas' instruction, he turned his head, peering over at the lumps that Haldir created within his blankets, and choked back on laughter, shaking his head in mirth and hiding his face within the golden strands of his companion's hair. There are better ways to see that fire, my angelic
imp. But could your teasing of Haldir wait till tomorrow? I'm enjoying your closeness too much to want to let you go so soon. The reply came laced with a bit of sleep, for the darker tressed prince was indeed growing slightly tired, though he could stay awake for however long his friend... perhaps his lover, later.. wished him to. A few kisses were butterflied over the other's cheek lightly, as if to entice him to lay back down with him, to curl within the warmth of the blankets... there would be a time, maybe even soon, for all those kisses promised, and more. Till then, Elrohir simply basked in the soft glow Legolas provided upon his heart.
I have found no other way, yet, to see that fire, the archer replied silently, looking away from Haldir, and to Elrohir with a smile. If you have the secret, I would like to know what it is. He settled back down when the kisses were offered to him and nuzzled his way against him in comfort, planting his own crop of kisses against the others fine jaw line thoughtfully. In a way I feel bad. I know that he would like it if he were here, with you, and yet it is I. And yet I know he would never move on you this way, as I have, because he would be wary of offending you. Which is odd, because he's very aggressive.
He shook his head a little, seeming to brush it off. I care not. He concluded finally, seemingly more to himself than to Elrohir. He carefully slid off of him, only to lay close against his side, an arm draped over him and holding him firmly against his own form. He was snuggled further under the covers, leaning his head at an odd angle to grasp the edge with his teeth, and pull it up on him more. He was too stubborn to let go of his prize, to do it properly. It really wasn't as warm without all three of them here, and they had to make due with what they had.
That was when the fear hit. Oh gods...he hoped he this hadn't alienated Haldir from them. He hadn't really stopped to consider exactly what 'Unless you wish to give Haldir further discomfort...' could mean in the long run. Oh well. It was a little late for regrets, and truthfully, he didn't have any.
I will invite Haldir to join us tomorrow, if you don't mind it... The offer came from Elrohir as if he had heard the worries of ruining whatever friendship or chance they each had with Haldir, knowing that the Marchwarden loved them both, and was probably only too stubborn to relinquish his pride and join them both within the sheets. Or perhaps now? I doubt he is completely asleep just yet... Kisses did not have to be given, though they were gladly brushed every few minutes, just one here, another there as he was held, cuddled... clung to so sweetly. He returned the ensnarement of arms, chuckling softly at the improvised attempt at pulling the blanket up, before tangling one of his legs up with one of Legolas' playfully. The he closed his eyes and rested within the elf's embrace.
I have to admit, you looked so adorable when he started kissing your neck this afternoon... I wasn't sure whether to burst out laughing or die of sweetness. Ah, so there was no jealousy there... though there was always the twinge of desire to have had a part in it. Jealousy, never... for they shared, it seemed, and shared alike. There was trust there, even with the bickering and teasing, and there was a link between the three... Haldir admitted to loving them both. Legolas... well, he seemed to be developing feelings for Haldir and Elrohir... and Elrohir was... Hmm... what was Elrohir? He supposed he was in a similar situation as Legolas: not quite love, but something that promised to blossom into such emotions if tended and cared for.
Leave him there for tonight. I do not think he would come now, even if we begged him. Legolas looked up at Elrohir with a soft smile. He seems to have this fear of intrusion, though I do not know where it stems from. Tomorrow, we would have a better chance. He was glad to be tangled as they were, and for a moment he rested silently, completely relaxed...until the mention of Haldir kissing his throat. At the reminder of the kisses, his body went stiff, and he turned a lovely shade of red.
I understand not why he did that, though I must admit that even the accidental brush of his fingers can set me aflame. He shook his head slightly, and buried his face in Elrohir's hair, hiding in the darkness as he felt his cheeks growing almost unbearably hot. It was true. And for the life of him, he could not understand why. I don't understand it. He is rude, and arrogant. He is haughty, and stern. He is everything that I'm
not, and yet it draws me like a moth to the flame. So when he does something tender, or kind, or something I think is out of character for him, I drown myself in it. That must sound completely mad to you.
He chuckled softly, out loud, and opened his eyes to peer into the silky blackness of the other elf's hair. "And you," he whispered very softly, aloud, "you draw everyone to you, whether you try or not. I have always been lost to that." He pressed a kiss to his throat softly.
You care for him, Legolas... as much as you care for me, and I for you and him...He trailed, as if to divulge more, but thinking better of it. Instead, he snuggled closer, blushing at the compliments that suddenly poured from the heart of his dear friend. "I do not try... I simply am who I am... as you are yourself." And Haldir hides who he is behind the mask of decorum and suspicion, only to reveal himself to those he cares most about with little slips of the facade... which you've borne witness to first hand, sweet... His thoughts were cut off at the gentle kiss, his head arching back just slightly at the sensation, instinct begging for more, even when his mind knew they should and probably would not tonight.
I do care for him, and I would be inclined to say that I love him, even, were I not afraid of what that might mean. Legolas sighed before he pressed another kiss to Elrohir's throat gently. "I would have you no other way, friend." He whispered, before listening to his next words. He will always hide, it is who he is, and i often wonder why, and how it was that he became that way.
Elrohir paused a moment, drawing in a slow, calming breath. He was falling in love with Haldir all over again, and discovering in his playful childhood friend another love that might burn as brightly, should it develop into the intense emotions. Legolas... has there ever been recorded a coupling of three lovers? The query came tentatively, for he knew the words were intense compared to the emotions that were only now beginning to bud. But he had to know, perhaps only to ease his own mind and heart. If there had been others, then perhaps this wouldn't see so scary. Then again, falling into love, in any shape or form, was utterly petrifying as it was exhilarating and beautiful. He could not think of anything other than a trio, though... for none seemed to want to give either of their potential loves up, as Elrohir knew that they would, given time, love each other with equality.
Legolas startled slightly. Three lovers. Had there been? No. Not to his knowledge. Though, he was sure that there had to be, in secret somewhere. It was not their way though. Even he had to admit, that this situation was an odd one. I know nothing of three lovers coming together. It is not in the ways of our people, so I would imagine it was kept in secret if it did occur, or one of them sacrificed their love for acceptance. Do not fear for this plight... He paused then, as though he were afraid to admit what was bothering him.
But this was Elrohir, and long it has been that he'd always told him everything. I feel that Haldir may be attracted to me. I have seen the lingering hints, but in no way could I ever expect him to love me as much as he has loved you for so long. Even though it could be my wish. Have him, I have no doubt that I could. But to have love from him...I see it happening not at all. He grew quiet then, thoughtful and reflective. And what did he mean by that statement? That he would be the one ousted? It hadn't been his intention...but it became his quiet fear suddenly. Friends they would always be. But he wanted no part in lovers, if he would only have to give it up in the end.
The dark-haired elf found his eyes closing once again, this time he hoped to sleep soon, though he would continue this mental conversation for as long as his mind would allow, pleased by the soft tones of his companion's voice, even those words not spoken out loud. He loves you, Legolas. Though if you say a word to him that I might have told you, I swear to you any pranks you devise would be child's play to what I shall do. He loves you every bit as much as he loves me. As for myself, I think I'm learning again what love is... I fear to use the term till I am sure, and Haldir has already told me he thinks it wise as well... to wait to give whatever it is I feel a name. He had to chuckle then, and hid the musical sound in the curve of his companion's neck, kissing over the shoulder he held closest to him.
I think I may be the reason he is growing more bold with you... I did not tell him my suspicions... but... well... I think the next few days might end up being very interesting, indeed, if he listens to me. It was all he would say on the subject, though. He quieted for a while, listening to the soft breath that came from his companion evenly, cut by kisses that peppered flesh once in a while. Even his heartbeat could be heard, faintly, despite the fact his ear was not resting upon the darling's chest. He felt each touch, each caress... comforted by his friend's closeness. I am falling, though. And I fear there is nothing to be done about it... except let things happen as they will.
While he could hear what Elrohir was saying, Legolas was still stuck on Haldir loving him, and it took all he had to not delve into a fathomless stream of quickly-asked questions, denials, and happy comments. Love him? No. And as much as Elrohir? Why...certainly not. They had a history, they had years and years, where he only had...what did he have? No. None of those thoughts. Legolas didn't stop to think about the cold hard facts. That Elrohir and Haldir had decided long ago to not pursue anything. That long ago Haldir had closed that part of his life, reluctant to open it again. Even now, when it seemed it could change. Because, what if one day Elrohir did wake up, and he did remember everything, and he remembered some unknown reason he'd not wanted to pursue it in the first place?
Did Haldir love Elrohir still? Oh yes. Beyond reckoning. But it did not mean that he would drop everything that had happened since then, for a new chance at it. The Marchwarden was too guarded. Things change, and no one knew that as well as he did. So any relationship with the twin would be approached with the utmost care, and not with the free gaiety Legolas was assuming. Yes. All we can do is wait and see what happens. There is a plan for us all, and if it involves the three of us, or only two, or none at all, we can only accept what the outcome is, and find happiness elsewhere. With that, he pressed a sleepy kiss to his companion's jaw, and explored the issues no further.
As for Elrohir, he settled contentedly at the prince's words, the mental equivalent of a nod shivering over their connection before sleep began to claim him, soothed by the close presence and pleasant touches. Slowly he succumbed to the darkness of dreams, resting comfortably against the other.
AN – there! Mild slashieness. Hope you guys appreciate it. And I hope the pairing wasn't too far out of the blue. Things will progress and change over the next couple of chapters… but then I run out of story! I'm making another desperate call to people – I need someone to help me at least plan this out, if not aid in writing it – someone who knows Legolas and Haldir, or at least just Haldir, well enough to do it. PLEASE. Otherwise, the story will finish incomplete in just a few chapters. You guys don't want that, do you?
Ah glass. I figured I'd throw the definition out there for you guys, since both words are also English words, with entirely different meanings! I would rather provide you with the definition here and now, than confuse you into thinking that Elrohir was talking about a transparent material used to view something without letting whatever-it-is into the area the viewer is in. Most of you I'm sure would realize it was sindarin, but because it does have another meaning in English, I'd rather make sure no one is confused.
Mítha nin? – Kiss me? Again, I give you guys the translation, simply because though I found the word in other dictionaries, and I think it's in Dragon Flame, it's nearly impossible to find Dragon Flame anymore, and the online dictionary that it is linked to doesn't have this translation. Go figure. So right or wrong, here's the translation.