Title: Reasons to Hope, Reasons to Live
Author: HanaHeart
Chapter: Eight
Summary: In the Battle of Helm's Deep, Haldir leaves Legolas with more than he bargained for
Beta Oliwiaroot
Warnings: Mpreg, Character Death (later)
Disclaimer: All of LOTR characters belong to the one and only Tolkein, except for any OCs.
Reasons to Hope, Reasons to Live
Chapter: Eight
The White Tower of Minas Tirith glowed with a pearly light under the golden rays of the sun. Legolas took a deep breath, trying to ease his nervousness as they neared the Capital of Gondor. He knew that in a few hours, Aragorn and he would face the Lords of Gondor's Court and the whole people behind them.
Aragorn glanced at Legolas. His husband was nervous; he could see that on his beautiful features.
/And he is right to feel so, / Aragorn mused.
The Lords of his court were the most prejudiced men he had ever met. During his short time of ruling, they made his life as a King a living hell; challenging, opposing and dissecting every single decision and order he made. And even though, some of the young Lords, such as his steward Faramir and some others believed and trusted him to lead the Kingdom, the older Lords saw him as nothing but a mere ranger from the North.
/Just like Denethor… / the king thought gloomily.
The sounds of horns snapped the man from his thoughts. He saw the large gates of the city opening, revealing Faramir with the company of some of the royal guards.
"My liege," Faramir bowed as his king dismounted his horse. "It's my greatest pleasure to see you home again safe and sound."
"I'm glad you are well, Faramir," Aragorn said. "I have brought some old friends with me as well." he said, gesturing to his company.
The young steward bowed in acknowledgement to the twins. "Lords Elladan and Elrohir, I hope that your last visit was such a joyous one that you have decided to honour us with your presence again."
"Well, that is one of our reasons for returning, Lord Faramir," Elladan smiled.
Faramir smiled politely at his King's foster brothers before he looked at Legolas.
"Prince Legolas," he said, bowing. "I haven't seen you since the coronation. I hope that you are intending to stay among us for a while."
Legolas smiled and nodded in acknowledgement to the young steward.
"Don't worry about that, Faramir." Aragorn said, putting his hand on the man's shoulder. "Legolas will stay amongst us longer than you think." Faramir looked at him in confusion but the king offered no further explanations. "This is Prince Mallorn, Faramir," the king said as he gestured to the elf that stood next to Legolas. "He is Legolas' brother. And the healer from Rivendell, Dior of Daerleon."
"Prince Mallorn." Faramir bowed in greeting to the blond prince.
"Well, let's enter the city," Aragorn said, pulling his horse. "There are some important matters I would like to discuss with you, Faramir."
"Certainly, my liege." Faramir said, nodding as they walked through the streets of the White City up to the castle.
Legolas looked around him as they walked, studying the city that he was about to rule by Aragorn's side.
The city was recovering from the war rather quickly, he noticed. Most of the destroyed buildings were half way rebuilt and the daily life seemed to be going as normal as possible. The people of Gondor stood at the sides of the roads, bowing to their King and gazing at his company with amazement and wonder.
Legolas smiled to himself. Even though these people saw elves during the war and at Aragorn's coronation, they never got close to one before and still the sight of any elf drew their attention and questions. Some of them might think that the elves were sacred Gods worth worshiping. Others might think them bewitched creatures that must be avoided. Legolas shivered at that thought.
How would the Lords of Gondor receive the news of his marriage to Aragorn?
How would they react to the news of his pregnancy?
What would he and his child's fate be like in the City of Men?
"Married?" Faramir asked, shocked. "You and Prince Legolas are married?"
"Indeed." Aragorn replied. "We were married before the final battle for the reasons I've told you about and now, Legolas is pregnant with my child."
Faramir stared at his king sitting in front of him with complete shock and disbelief, unable to say a word. "Honestly, your Majesty, do you really think that I would believe such (a) story? With all due respect, but your story is unbelievable. You two are both males. You can't marry each other and certainly, Prince Legolas cannot be pregnant. It's impossible."
"No, it isn't." Aragon said. "I know it may sound this way but it's not. Such marriage is known among Elves—"
"You are not an elf, Aragorn," Faramir interrupted. "You are a human, and marrying another male isunknown among humans."
"You forget that I have been raised by elves, Faramir." Aragorn said firmly. "And I have learned their ways in life."
"You aren't living among them now." Faramir reasoned. "The old Lords will definitely not approve of this. They might even use it (to) dethrone you, Aragorn."
"I don't care, Faramir." Aragorn snapped. "I will not forsake my husband and child just to please some old men. And as for the throne, you know very well that I didn't ask for it. They were the ones who needed a King to unite them under his rule. I was content with my life as a ranger, but I had accepted my birthright to prevent the race of men and Middle-Earth from falling into Sauron's darkness. They should be grateful that I have accepted to lead them. I love Legolas. I'm married to him, and the child he bears is mine. It's their problem if they don't understand or accept this union." Aragorn's face turned into a deep shade of red from fury. He took deep breaths, trying to calm himself down. "Besides, by this marriage I'm offering them a strong alliance with one of the most powerful Kingdoms in Middle-Earth and with the race of Elves."
Faramir sighed deeply, shaking his head. He was surely positive that the older Lords would not understand or accept this marriage. They would reject it completely without any second thought. That, of course, would result in another confrontation between them and Aragorn. Not to mention that they could use it as an excuse to question Aragorn's capability of ruling. The younger lords might be more understanding and tolerating to the ways of the other races of Middle-Earth but the whole pregnancy would shake them terribly. How could a male become pregnant?
"How could Legolas be… err… pregnant?" he asked quietly.
"By a fertility spell." Aragorn replied. "The elves had created a spell that enables elven males to bear children. Gandalf had cast this spell on Legolas when we were bound."
"And when did he get pregnant?"
"He's entering his fourth month, I suppose."
Faramir sighed. This turn of events wasn't pleasant at all. Humans were already paranoid of the rest of Middle-Earth races as it was. The mention of elves combined with spells and wizards was bound to raise a riot of fear and distrust in the hearts of Gondor's people.
Faramir took a deep breath before looking up at Aragorn. "I will be honest with you, Aragorn. I don't think that any of the lords will accept this situation. Some lords may tolerate the habits of the other races but I don't know how they will react when their King is the one who's adapting them. Prince Legolas is a noble and fine person and I respect him very much. However, I can't say that I agree with what you both have done without telling anybody."
"Can't you at least be happy for us, Faramir?" Aragorn said softly.
"My King," Faramir said with a small smile. "If this is where your happiness lies then I cannot do anything but support you and be happy for you."
Aragorn smiled gratefully at his friend and steward.
"Anyway, we have a lot to do. First, I think we should keep this between us until we inform the lords and an official announcement is made… then, I suggest that we prepare for a union ceremony."
"A union ceremony? Why? We are already married." Aragorn asked.
"Then how are you planning to announce your marriage to the public?"
"Well, I thought of holding a small reception."
"No," Faramir said. "In order to, at least, make it easy on the lords; I suggest you have a human union ceremony and exchange vows in front of them. Besides, it would be a good way to announce the news to the public."
"Alright," Aragorn sighed.
"And of course," Faramir said, pacing in front of Aragorn and planning. "The news of Legolas' pregnancy must be announced as well; with a proper explanation of course."
"Alright." Aragorn nodded. He doubted that these arrangements would please Legolas but they were obligated to do them.
"Is he worth it, Aragorn?" Faramir asked for the last time, looking deeply into Aragorn's grey eyes.
"Worth dying for," Aragorn replied sincerely.
Faramir smiled slightly. "Fine then. You must catch up with your late paperwork, my King. And after that, we must discuss this with Prince Legolas before discussing it with the lords." With that, he excused himself and left Aragorn to his late paperwork.
Legolas sighed wistfully as he stared out of the window. After their arrival, he and Mallorn were taken to their assigned chambers and had been there since. Mallorn took on his shoulders to unpack their belongings while Legolas rested from their journey.
Legolas sighed again, He had spent a few hours within these stonewalls and he was starting to feel as though they were closing in on him, deriving him from the air he needed.
'What's wrong, Legolas?' the young prince looked up and saw Mallorn standing next to him.
Seeing anxiety filling his brother's blue eyes, Mallorn placed a comforting hand on his brother's shoulder. 'Don't worry, Little Greenleaf. Everything will be fine.'
'I'll believe that when I see it.' Legolas muttered gloomily. 'I am thinking about the days ahead, Mallorn. How those men who rule in Aragorn's court will treat us? The thought that they might harm my child has crossed my mind several times already.'
'Don't be ridiculous, Legolas. They can't harm you or your child. Remember, you are their King's spouse, whether they like it or not.' Mallorn reassured. 'They don't have a choice but to accept your marriage and your baby.'
'You don't know the men here, Mallorn.' Legolas shook his head. 'They are even more opinionated than Ada.'
Mallorn laughed loudly. 'Now I know that you are exaggerating. I can hardly imagine anyone more opinionated than the mighty King Thranduil.'
'They don't trust us, Mallorn.' Legolas said seriously. 'King Théoden questioned our intentions to aid Rohan prior to Helm's Deep. He was shocked when he saw Haldir with the Elven army standing in front of him. All men think that we are a bewitched race.'
'It sounds like something the dwarves would think of, not men.' Mallorn said, raising an eyebrow.
'Mallorn, I'm serious.' Legolas growled, glaring up at his brother. 'And don't say a word against the dwarves.'
'All right, don't be angry. I'm sorry.' Mallorn said calmly. 'Anyway, Legolas,' Mallorn held his brother's chin, locking their eyes together. 'You have to believe in your and Elessar's strength. I'm sure that you two will overcome any obstacle your marriage may face. I can't believe that after fighting many foul creatures in your lives, you two are afraid of some mortals.'
'Those mortals, my brother, are Gondor's Lords…'
'So? Elessar is Gondor's King and you are now his Prince Consort. You two are the rulers of Gondor.'
Legolas stared at his brother silently, running his words through his head. Then suddenly, his beautiful features turned into a frown and his eyes narrowed into thin slits as he looked at his brother thoughtfully.
'When did you become so wise and thoughtful?' he asked.
At that, Mallorn laughed out loud. 'You can't spend hundreds of years around Ada and Aredhel without taking something after them.'
Legolas laughed softly at that.
'This is what I always want to see and hear, little brother.' Mallorn smiled. 'Your smiling face and soft laugh.'
Legolas opened his mouth to say something when the two Sindarin elves heard a soft knock on the door.
Opening the door, Mallorn saw Faramir standing in front of him.
"Prince Mallorn," Faramir said, bowing slightly. "May I speak with Prince Legolas?"
"Of course." Mallorn said, stepping away. "Legolas, Lord Faramir wishes a word with you."
"Welcome, Lord Faramir." Legolas said as he smiled to the steward. The young elf walked from his previous spot in front of the window to a corner where two chairs were placed around a small table. "Please, have a seat. How may I help you?"
Merlin took his brother's place at the window, leaning his back on the wall as he listened warily at the current conversation.
"I humbly thank you for your kindness, your highness." Faramir said, sitting on the chair in front of Legolas. "His Majesty King Aragorn has informed me of your marriage and the child you both are expecting. Please, accept my sincere congratulations."
"Thank you, Lord Faramir. You are so kind." Legolas said quietly.
"Prince Legolas," Faramir began nervously. "It is unusual among our race that two males get married, and conceives a child. However, King Aragorn does not wish to forsake you nor his child and I totally support him in his actions. However, your marriage will not be accepted easily among our people, especially those who are in his majesty's court. Thus, I hope that you understand that and will be prepared to face the obstacles your marriage may face."
"I understand." Legolas said calmly. "Don't worry, Lord Faramir. I will be more than worthy of carrying Aragorn's name."
"I honestly believe that." The young steward sighed in relief. "However, I would like, if you permit, to introduce you to some of our royal customs."
"Lord Faramir, don't you think it is too early for such thing? Our marriage hasn't been announced yet."
"I know, your highness. However, it would be better if I introduce you to some of our customs now, so when the time comes and your marriage has been announced, you would be familiar with them in front of the lords."
"I see. In that case, you may start." Legolas said with a smile.
"First of all, your highness, I would advise you that we hold a public marriage."
"They are already married." Mallorn pointed out with little annoyance in his voice.
"I know, your highness. But what I'm suggesting is a marriage on our ways. King Elessar and Prince Legolas were married according to the Elven ways and most people here will not review it as a real marriage."
"It's alright, Lord Faramir." Legolas said. "I understand."
"Next, sire… once your marriage is announced, you will be a member of Gondor's Royal family, and as a member of Gondor's Royal family. You will have to cut your ties to your homeland."
"What do you mean by that?" Mallorn asked sharply. The human was starting to get into his nerves.
"Mallorn," Legolas said, giving his brother a stern look. "Let lord Faramir finishes."
"I beg your pardon, Prince Mallorn." Faramir bowed his head slightly to Mallorn, before looking back to Legolas. "I didn't mean any offence. However, it is a custom that when a Telcontar takes a foreign bride; the bride must give up any ties with their homeland, and adapt to our customs completely. This means that their wardrobe, jewels, and personal belongings must be Gondorian. Their allegiance and loyalty must be to Gondor only."
"I totally understand you, Lord Faramir." Legolas said quietly, before Mallorn could say a word." As I said before, I will be more than worthy of carrying Aragorn's name."
"Thank you for your kind understanding, my prince. Now, if you will excuse me, I must leave. Tomorrow, I'll summon the royal tailor, the shoe and the jewellery makers…" With that, Faramir stood up and left.
'Are you seriously going to follow all those stupid customs?' Mallorn snapped as soon as the door was shut. He was surprised at Legolas' quietness.
'Aye.'
'Legolas, what happened to you? He's asking you to sever all your ties to Mirkwood, your own family and your people?'
'Mirkwood is in my heart, Mallorn. No one can take it away.' Legolas said, looking at his brother sadly. 'As well as my family and people.'
'But he said…."
'What he said changes nothing. I'll never leave my true roots. As for my clothes, jewels and things… they don't prove anything. If I must wear Gondorian clothes and jewels, so what? It doesn't mean that I have abandoned my true roots." Legolas said, trying his best to fight back his tears. 'I'll always be Legolas Thranduiliôn.'
Unable to hold back anymore, Legolas burst into tears. Mallorn rushed to his brother and hugged him tightly.
'I'll talk to Aragorn. I'll make him stop this ridiculous thing.'
'No.' Legolas said, pulling away from his brother's embrace. 'Please, don't.'
'Legolas, you can't agree to something like this. This wasn't Adar's agreement with him.'
'Please, Mallorn. Aragorn had already done so much for me. I can't ask anything else from him. He has sacrificed a lot for me so far. I will do what Faramir asked me for Aragorn's sake.'
'Adar will not be pleased with this.'
'He mustn't know about this, neither must Aredhel.'
'Legolas…' Mallorn shook his head disapprovingly, then sighed in defeat. 'Alright, as you wish.'
'Thank you, Mallorn.' Legolas smiled sadly. 'I-I want to ask another favour of you.'
'Anything, little brother…'
'Umm…I want you to take my clothes and things back to Mirkwood with you when you return…' Silent tears rolled down Legolas' cheek as he spoke. 'I want you to take everything… save for Nana's Crown. I'd like you to keep it with you until we're done from the union ceremony, then I'll retrieve it from you. The rest of my things, I want them to be taken back with you when you go to Mirkwood, so I could use them if I visited Mirkwood someday.'
Not knowing what to say, Mallorn just hugged his brother in response.
'Aren't you going to tell me what's wrong with you?' Elladan asked his brother. The twins were in their chambers, playing a game of chess.
Since their trip to Helm's Deep, Elladan noticed that his twin was behaving differently. He was quiet and a little withdrawn from the rest, for one. In addition, he was avoiding Mallorn.
'I'm fine.' Elrohir said quietly as he made his move. There is nothing wrong with me.'
'Yes, there is.' Elladan said. 'You've been acting strangely since Helm's Deep. You don't joke, don't tease anyone, and you've been keeping yourself away from Mallorn as much as you can.'
Hearing the name of Mallorn, Elrohir tried his best not to react. Still, it was too hard to hear the name of the Prince or see him without feeling that painful tug in his heart.
Noticing how his brother's face darkened at the mention of Mallorn's name, Elladan sighed. 'It's about Mallorn, isn't it? What happened? Did you two fight?'
'I told him about my feelings towards him.' Elrohir said, after a long period of silence. 'We talked in Helm's Deep.'
'And?'
'He rejected me.' Elrohir looked up at his brother sadly. 'He wanted us to be just friends.'
Elladan sighed deeply.
'I don't want us to be friends, Elladan.' Elrohir continued. 'I want him to be my lover. It hurts me to pretend that my feelings mean nothing more than friendship. Not to mention that I'll have to watch him courting Lady Éowyn.'
'Lady Éowyn?' Elladan raised an eyebrow. 'That's a surprise. I can't imagine Mallorn falling for a human. This could be one of Mallorn's quick fascinations, you know.'
'Maybe.' Elrohir said apathetically.
'Listen Elrohir,' Elladan tried again. 'You know Mallorn better than I do. He probably will lose his interest in Lady Éowyn after sometime. So, don't lose your hope. If you truly want him, then don't give up trying to win him over."
'What if it wasn't one of his quick fascinations? What if he truly loves her?' Elrohir asked, looking at his brother with a hopeful yet frightened look in his eyes.
'Then, you have to forget him.'
Suddenly, the door of their chambers burst open and an enraged Mallorn entered the room.
'Do you know where can I find Elessar?' he asked heatedly. The twins exchanged confused looks before looking at the blond elf.
'He's probably at his study or at court.' Elladan replied. 'Why are you looking for him?'
Mallorn's frown sent shivers down the twins' spines.
'I have to talk to him.' the blond elf said. 'His steward came to Legolas' chambers earlier and informed him of some utterly ridiculous customs he had to follow as Gondor's Consort Prince.'
The two dark-haired elves exchanged puzzled looks before looking back at Mallorn.
'What customs?' Elrohir asked.
With a sigh, Mallorn pulled a chair and sat with the twins, explaining what happened with Faramir earlier.
'What did Legolas say to all of this?' Elrohir asked.
'He agreed to everything Faramir said.' The blond elf retorted. 'I still can't believe how calm he was.'
'You have to excuse Faramir, Mallorn.' Elladan said. 'Like our elders, traditions and customs hold great meanings to the race of men.'
'I don't recall Aredhel forcing lady Tarawiel to cut her ties with Imladris when they wed.' Mallorn said darkly.
Elladan chuckled. 'I'm sure he didn't. Nevertheless, when Legolas got married to Aragorn, he agreed to be part of Aragorn's life. He's bound to make some sacrifices.'
Mallorn looked at the older twin, still unconvinced. However, he knew that raising a riot about it would not make anything easy on his brother.
Elladan smiled as he noticed how different emotions played in Mallorn's blue eyes until they seemed to settle on what it looked like conviction.
'Where is Legolas now?' Elladan asked.
'Sleeping.' Mallorn replied. 'He was tired and since the sun had set already, I told him to go to bed.'
**Mirkwood**
Aredhel sighed as he continued to review some paperwork. He was lost in his work that he didn't notice as the door opened and Lady Tarawiel appeared.
'My lord,' she said. 'It seems that you have lost track of time.'
Aredhel looked up and smiled warmly. 'Is that true?'
'Certainly.' Tarawiel said with a smile, as she approached him. 'The sun had set, the wind had calmed down, the birds and animals had gone to their homes, yet, you, my lord, hadn't returned to my chambers.'
Aredhel chuckled. 'Forgive me, Melamin. I still have to go through these petitions.'
The raven-haired elf frowned at her husband. Aredhel was burying himself with work as usual.
'Aredhel,' she said with a warning tone, turning around the desk and standing in front of her husband.
Sighing in defeat, Aredhel put the papers away before standing up. 'Please, pardon me, my lady. I humbly seek your forgiveness for my insolent mistake.'
'Unless you come with me now, I will never forgive you for all eternity.'
'When my lady orders me to go with her, I have to humbly obey.' Aredhel pulled his wife into his arms and kissed her passionately, before the two left the study.
'What have you done all day?' Aredhel asked as they walked to their chambers.
'Nothing much.' The she-elf replied casually. 'After breakfast, I practiced archery in the fields then I visited the stables to check on the horse. Later in the afternoon, I went to town with Lady Hithaer to visit the families of the soldiers who lost their lives in the last Orcs attack."
'Lady Hithaer? How is she faring?'
'She's doing fine.' Tarawiel said. 'As fine as anyone with unrequited love.'
'Tarawiel, we've talked about this thousands of times.' Aredhel said with a disapproving tone.
'I cannot stay idle while someone as lovely as Lady Hithaer suffers needlessly.' Tarawiel said in an equally disapproving tone. 'I don't know why your Adar keeps denying the love that is blooming between the two of them.'
'Ever since Naneth's death, Adar had devoted himself for us. When he had realized that there were some feelings started to blossom between him and Lady Hithaer, he felt that he was betraying Naneth's memory and us.'
'This is so cruel, Aredhel. Lady Hithaer is hurting very much. They have been in love for what? 1000 years?'
'Yes, but what can we do? Adar will not marry Lady Hithaer.'
'Even if you inform him of your approval? Aredhel, maybe what's stopping him is his fear that you may oppose his marriage?'
'Tarawiel, if Adar wanted to remarry, he will with or without our approval. What's stopping Adar from marrying lady Hithaer is his feelings that he's betraying Naneth.'
'Aredhel, he's not betraying her. Your Naneth would never want him to suffer like this.'
'You have my sincere wish of luck in convincing him.' Tarawiel just frowned at her husband's indifferent response.
**Gondor**
The next morning, an urgent meeting was held between King Elessar and the lord of his court.
"Your Majesty, you cannot be serious." One of the lords objected firmly. "Married to an elf? And a male at that?"
"It's not in my nature to jest about something such as this, Lord Bonirun." Aragorn said darkly. "Prince Legolas and I are bound in marriage."
"He's a male, your Majesty." Lord Bonirun remarked as if his King wasn't aware if that little fact.
"So? Elves are much more comfortable in these matters. They don't see any problem with such a situation."
"But as far I can see, my liege," another Lord said, sneering. "We aren't elves, and neither you are."
"Well, Lord Mortardur," Aragorn said, feeling his anger rising in his chest. "You seem to forget that I was raised by elves and I'm fine with their ways."
"But that doesn't mean that we have to accept their ways in our own kingdom," Lord Mortardur said; the other Lords nodded in agreement.
"I'm not asking for your permission on my marriage, Lord Mortardur." Aragorn glared at the said lord. "I'm merely informing of you of it. And as your liege, you are obliged to accept whatever I command you to accept, be it another race's culture or the one I chose as my mate."
Anger flashed through Lord Mortardur's brown eyes briefly but the young lord was able to suppress it.
"You need heirs, My Lord," Lord Addrimyr tried again. "Surely the elf cannot provide you with that."
"Maybe the elf has other ways of conceiving too," Lord Mortardur snorted.
/Oh, Eru! / Faramir thought. /Now the doors of hell will open! /
"That elf has a name, my lords," Aragorn hissed angrily. "He is Prince Legolas Greenleaf, Prince of Mirkwood and Prince Consort of Gondor. And yes, Lord Mortardur," he growled as he glared at the Lord. "Elves do have a way to allow males to conceive. In fact, Prince Legolas is already four months pregnant with my child." That earned loud gasps from everyone except Faramir.
"How could it be?" another lord asked.
"He became pregnant due to an Elven spell," Aragorn explained. "The ancient elves had created a fertility spell to allow Elven males to bear children after the Elven births had decreased rapidly."
"Elven sorcery…" Lord Mortardur scoffed under his breath, but loud enough for everyone to hear.
Aragorn clutched his hands into tight fists as he regarded the lord angrily. Lord Mortardur was one of the lords in his court that challenged his authority at every chance they got, not for the good of Gondor as they had constantly claimed but because they weren't pleased with the idea of a king that would take their privileges. Aragorn knew that the young brown-haired lord looked down him like many others, and regarded him as a mere ranger, not worthy of Gondor's crown, not to mention the fact that he was raised by the elves; a race most people considered to be bewitching.
"My Lords," he finally said. "My marriage to Prince Legolas was to unite men and elves together to fight the darkness that threatened our lands. This union will continue through this marriage. As I said before, I'm merely informing you of this marriage and Legolas' position in this Kingdom from now on. I'm not going to forsake my husband and the child he bears under any circumstances. If you weren't able to accept this simple fact, then, please say so and I'll see what I can do to make sure that you stay as far away as possible from it. Do I make myself clear?" he asked calmly, but the Lords got the hidden threat behind his polite words. Everyone remained silent.
It was obvious to everybody that Aragorn would not back off, so arguing with him openly would do them no good.
Receiving no reply, Aragorn smiled in satisfaction before turning his attention to his steward. "Faramir, I want you to take care of everything that concerns the union ceremony party… and I want you to prepare the royal announcement for the public."
"Yes, my Lord," Faramir bowed slightly.
Aragorn then turned to the Lords again. "I believe this meeting has come to its end, my Lords. You may go now." With that, all the Lords left the room, some mumbling under their breaths.
"They are angry, Aragorn," Faramir whispered softly.
"They can't do anything, Faramir," Aragorn said solemnly, staring at the closed door where the Lords had exited. "However, I want you to make sure that no objections or protests against the marriage reaches Legolas' ears. He's in no shape to deal with disturbing news right now."
"Yes, Aragorn."
"Also, I would like you to keep an eye on Lord Mortardur."
"Do you have any doubt in his loyalty, Aragorn?" Faramir asked worriedly.
"I'm not sure, Faramir. It's just that I don't like him." Aragorn whispered softly. Sighing deeply, he turned to Faramir. "Go and arrange everything, Faramir."
With that, Faramir nodded and left the room.
Legolas groaned as he heard someone knocking on his chamber door. He was sleeping rather late since he couldn't get a moment of peaceful sleep last night. Sharing a bed with Mallorn had proven to be a huge mistake since the older elf was practically fighting with an unseen foe during his sleep. Every moment of the night, Legolas would be snapped from his sleep as an arm or leg made a painful contact with his body while the owner of the offending limb was blissfully dreaming and mumbling in his sleep. Sharing a bed with Aragorn was more restful. The man barely moved during sleep.
Legolas really pitied all of the maidens who had the displeasure of sharing a bed with his brother.
Another knock snapped Legolas from his thoughts.
"Who is it?" he asked softly.
'My Prince,' Dior's voice called from behind the door. 'May I enter? I'd like to examine you, if you may allow.'
'A moment, please.' The young prince rose from his bed and rushed to the bathroom where he freshened up. Returning to the room, Legolas allowed the elven healer to enter.
Dior entered the room and closed the door behind him.
'It won't take long, your highness," he said, smiling warmly at Legolas as he approached. 'I just want to see how your body is developing and ask you a few questions.'
Legolas nodded and lay on the bed for the healer to examine him. Dior lifted up Legolas robes and covered his lower body with the blanket, leaving his belly and chest exposed. He pressed his hands gently on Legolas' belly, examining its development.
'Your belly seems to grow normally, my Prince,' he said, smiling softly. 'Have you experienced any pain or felt anything unusual lately?'
'No,' Legolas said. 'But my chest sometimes hurts me, especially if touched. It has become very sensitive.'
'That's normal, your highness,' Dior said, as his hands moved upwards to examine Legolas' chest. Legolas hissed softly as the hands touched his sensitive flesh.
'It's growing slowly, I can see,' Dior mused. 'It will continue to enlarge as it fills with milk.'
'How large?' Legolas asked, frowning. 'They won't be very large, will they? I mean, my breasts will not actually show, will they?'
'Well, no, your highness.' Dior laughed softly. 'Your chest will grow just enough to allow your baby to be able to feed, but it won't be the size of a maiden's, if that is what you meant.'
Legolas sighed. 'Thank you. That's a relief.'
The healer smiled at the young prince. 'That is all, my prince."
'Thank you, Dior,' Legolas said, lowering his robes again and rising up.
'How is your morning sickness, now?' Dior asked.
'It stopped days ago,' Legolas answered. 'But I still cannot stand the smell of meat and some other kinds of food.'
'That's understandable,' Dior said, nodding. 'How about your appetite? Do you eat well?'
'Well, I eat as much as I can,' Legolas said, looking guilty. 'But not on a regular basis. I can't stand the mere thought of food sometimes.'
'That's not good, my Prince,' Dior said, shaking his head. 'You must eat for the sake of your unborn child.'
'How; if I've just told you that I can't stand the smell of the food?' Legolas snapped.
'Calm down, your highness,' Dior said. 'It's not good for you to be upset or angry. As for your appetite, tell me what kinds of food you can't stand and I'll make sure that they won't be in your meal. Other than this, you must eat.'
'Fine,' Legolas said, pouting.
'Then I will leave you, your highness.' With that, Dior bowed and left the room. Legolas sighed before rising up. He changed his clothes then left the room in search of his brother.
The people fled in panic as three riders rode through the streets of Minas Tirith with tremendous speed.
Mallorn yelled in excitement as he and the twins raced through town on their horses. After breakfast, the blond elf asked the twins to go for a ride, feeling smothered by the stoned walls. However, as they mounted their horses, Elrohir wondered who was a better rider, which led to the current race across town.
The three elves raced until they reached the gates. Once they were out of the city and into the open lands, the three pulled their horses into a stop.
'That's was marvellous.' Mallorn exclaimed between his breaths. 'Did you see how those humans ran out of our way in fright?'
'Even elves would run out of the way in fright if three mad riders sprinted through the streets.' Elladan commented, trying to catch his breath as well.
'I second that.' Elrohir remarked with a laugh.
'I don't think Elessar would be pleased if he knew about it, though.' Elladan said as the three threw themselves onto the green grass.
'Nor would Adar or Aredhel,' Mallorn stated. 'But that never stopped me from misbehaving.'
The twins could only laugh in response.
Mallorn took a deep breath as he closed his eyes and listened to the nature around him. The smell of the open air, the morning dew and green grass felt so different and refreshing from the smell of dammed cold stones of the castle; and for a moment, the Mirkwood elf truly felt pity for his younger brother to have to live within them.
'I can't understand how the humans prefer cold stone walls to this.' He said to no one in particular. 'Don't they feel any difficulty to breathe in those closed walls?'
'Humans don't feel safe in the open lands.' Elrohir replied. 'They prefer closed spaces, instead.'
'It's their loss.' Mallorn said, opening his eyes and sitting up. 'Nature is far more enjoyable than their closed houses.'
Elladan laughed. 'I'm sure Legolas shares your opinion, Mallorn.'
'Of course, he does.' The blond elf said in a frisky tone. 'He couldn't stand to stay within the Mirkwood Palace for more than a handful of days.'
'I'd like to see how he would cope living in Minas Tirith for a long time, though.' Elladan mused.
'He'll find a way to amuse himself, I'm sure.' Mallorn replied. The twins exchanged surprised looks. It sounded to them that Mallorn wasn't worried about his brother.
'You sound as if you don't care about Legolas, Mallorn.' Elrohir couldn't hold himself.
The blond elf gave his friend a strange look; strange lights sparked in his eyes before looking away.
'It might sound strange,' Mallorn said softly. 'But despite what Ada wants to believe, I know that Legolas is strong enough to withstand any obstacle if he set his mind on. Thus, I believe that he will be fine at the end.'
Elladan and Elrohir looked at their friend then at each other and smiled.
'Well, it would be better if we return,' Mallorn said as he stood up. 'Adar will kill me if he knew that I have left Legolas by himself for a long time.'
Laughing, the twins stood up and followed Mallorn to their horses.
Legolas sighed deeply as he sat alone on a stone bench in the gardens of Gondor's castle. His marriage to Aragorn finally was announced to the Lords and became official. The Prince wondered what the coming days had in store for him and his child. Aragorn was confident that no one would dare to object, but Legolas was afraid of what the lords could do to him in secret if not in public. The blond elf looked around him, wondering where his brother and the twins were. He hadn't seen them since he woke up; they were properly enjoying their time here, while he had to sit alone and worry himself to death.
Legolas was so absorbed in his thoughts that he failed to sense his husband approaching until he was next to him.
"So what happened?" Legolas asked quietly, looking away from the man who sat next to him.
"They are having some difficulties accepting our marriage, Legolas," Aragorn said honestly. "But I made it clear that I would not sever our bond under any circumstances. They only need some time to get used to this."
Legolas sighed deeply. "I guess that is the only option I have now," he whispered softly. "And what about the union ceremony party and the public announcement?"
"Faramir is taking care of all that." Aragorn replied. He remained silent for a moment before saying. "We have to send invitations to the lords and ladies of Middle-Earth."
Legolas gave him a calculating look before looking away. "And the fellowship?" he asked softly.
"Don't you want them to be present?"
"I do." The blond elf replied. "But…" his voice trailed off.
"But?"
"I don't wish to lie to them, Aragorn." Legolas looked deeply into the man's eyes. "As our friends, they should know the truth."
Aragorn ran Legolas' words in his mind. In his heart, he had wished that Legolas would never mention the true reasons for their marriage to anyone. The King hoped that with time, Legolas would accept their marriage as a bond of love between them and Aragorn wished that everyone would regard their marriage the same. He wished that their friends would acknowledge his and Legolas' union as one born out of love…
'Legolas,' the man finally said in Elvish. 'I know that you wish to tell our friends the truth, however, it would defy the purpose of our marriage. To have so many people know the truth might hold some risks. As much as I wish to never lie to our friends, we are forced to do so.'
Legolas just nodded in response, seemed to have been convinced.
"Is that why you lied to Éomer?" the blond elf asked mischievously. "Mallorn told me about your story of our marriage. I didn't know that you are a good liar, Aragorn."
Aragorn laughed. "It wasn't totally my idea," he replied. "Lord Glorfindel made the most of it after Ada advised me to say that we were married during that period so no one would suspect your pregnancy."
"But Elven babies have to stay one year in their parent's womb, Aragorn," Legolas informed. "If you measure from the time you have told everyone, then I would deliver the baby after nine months only."
"You are forgetting that the baby is supposed to be mine, Legolas," Aragorn said, smiling softly. "Which means that it supposed to be half-human too, and human babies stay only nine months in their mothers' womb."
"Oh," Legolas whispered. "I see."
"Don't worry about this, Legolas." Aragorn smiled. "The men here know little about elves, anyway. No one will suspect anything." His hand moved towards Legolas' and squeezed it gently. "Everything will be all right, Legolas. I promise."
Legolas looked up into Aragorn's eyes and smiled slightly. "I hope so, Estel," he said softly.
"Now, what do you think about a walk in the gardens with me?" the King said, standing up and extending a hand to his husband. "I'm positive that you will like it; it's not like Rivendell or Lothlórien but it's quite beautiful during this time of the year."
Legolas smiled slightly as he took Aragorn's hand. "I'd love to have a tour around your castle's gardens, King Elessar."
*Two days later in the Shire*
"Frodo! Frodo!" Pippin screamed at the top of his lungs, waving a piece parchment in the air. Many hobbits hurdled out his way as he ran through the roads of the shire heading to Bag End; his cousin Merry in tow.
"Pip, let me see it!" yelled the older hobbit at his cousin.
Reaching Bag End, the young hobbit just stormed the house only to find Frodo and Sam sitting at the table, drinking tea.
"Frodo!" exclaimed Pippin breathlessly. "A letter came to us from Gondor. Look," he said, presenting the letter to them. "To Mr. Frodo Baggins, Mr. Samwise Gamgee, Mr. Meriadoc Brandybuck, and Mr. Peregrin Took."
Taking the letter from his cousin, Frodo checked the seal. "It is indeed from Gondor." He mused. "I wonder what is it."
"Read it, Master Frodo," Sam said.
Nodding, the young hobbit broke the seal and started to read.
It is with great pleasure that
King Elessar of Gondor
And
Prince Legolas of Mirkwood
request the honor of thy kind and noble presence at the joyous revelry of their auspicious union ceremony at The White Castle in Minas Tirith, on the third week of the upcoming month.
The four hobbits stared at each other with surprise.
"Aragorn and Legolas are getting married?" Sam finally asked disbelievingly.
"That's what the invitation stated." Frodo said. It wasn't as much of a surprise to him, though. During their quest, the young hobbit caught Aragorn stealing glances at Legolas when he thought no one was looking. At first, the dark-hair hobbit thought nothing of it, but as they progressed, he noticed the pain and longing in the ranger's eyes, especially after meeting Haldir in Lothlórien.
"But doesn't Legolas loves that other elf, what's his name? Haldir!" Pippin asked, already halfway devouring the basket of cakes.
"He died, Pip." Merry pointed out.
"Well," Frodo said. "King Elessar and Legolas are our friends and we must share their happiness with them."
"We're going to Gondor!" Merry exclaimed happily.
Lady Tarawiel rushed through the corridors of Mirkwood's Palace; a bright smile was shinning her face.
'My lord,' she said as she entered Thranduil's study. 'A message from Gondor.'
Thranduil and Aredhel looked up questionably at the Noldor lady as she exclaimed.
'I just came from the pigeonry. An invitation of King Elessar and Prince Legolas' union was sent from Gondor.' The excitement and happiness in her voice were clear as the sun in the middle of the sky.
A pained look flashed through Thranduil's eyes but he managed to suppress it before anyone noticed.
'That's indeed good news.' He managed to say in an even tone.
'But they are already married, Adar.' Aredhel stated, an edge of anger tinted his tone.
The ancient Elven King smiled at his son. 'Elessar is simply trying to make his people accept his marriage to Legolas by holding a formal union ceremony. I suggest that you and Tarawiel attend it in my name.'
'Aren't you going as well, my lord?' Tarawiel asked.
'No,' Thranduil shook his head. 'I'd prefer not.' With that, the old king left the study.
Tarawiel looked at her husband, wanting to say something. But, Aredhel stopped with a wave of his hand as he followed his father out. At that moment, Tarawiel felt a spell of dizziness washing over her. Holding the edge of the deck, she steadied herself until it went away.
Tarawiel blinked several times; one hand cautiously placed above her abdomen.
She couldn't possibly be… Tarawiel felt her heart beat faster in anticipation. Releasing a small laugh, the she-elf left the study as well.
To be continued…