The Education of Legolas Greenleaf

Disclaimer: I do not own any characters listed here. All phrases /characters/plotlines/settings are from the work of JRR Tolkien are his property. All phases used from the LOTR Movies is property of Peter Jackson and Newline Cinema. All I own is my creativity and devious interactions.


The Education of Legolas Greenleaf
Part Three

*
Chapter 5

“I have been waiting for you.” Aragorn said quietly as Legolas entered the Talan, freshly cleansed, his hair smelling of night blooming flowers.

Legolas was shocked to find Aragorn awake, his cloak concealing him in the darkness. The Prince could see the Rangers eyes from beneath the hem of his hood. “Is everything alright?” Legolas asked in a whisper.

Aragorn motioned toward the forest, rising and silently stepping over the Hobbits, who were locked in the last night of rest before the journey continued. Legolas followed Aragorn, pausing to take a drink from the fountain beside the talan. “Is everything alright, Aragorn?”

The Ranger lowered his hood, his mahogany tendrils falling in unruly cascades along the side of his face. “Frodo looked into the Mirror and was distraught this night. I am worried for him, and the burden he carries, Legolas. But that is not the reason I ask you here.” Aragorn studied Legolas, carefully. “This is not the first time you have returned late to us with a look of concern in your eyes. Tell me, friend, what is troubling you? It is more than Gandalf, though his loss grieves our hearts so heavily.”

“I can not discuss it, Aragorn. Forgive me.” Legolas stood stone still, his water goblet gripped like an ancient offering in his slender hands.

“Listen to me, Legolas. Whatever is going on here in Lorien must remain here in Lorien. I have seen your distraction and it can not affect the Quest we undertake! The lives of Middle Earth are upon the hilt of our swords, the tips of our arrows.” Aragorn was stern and serious. The Warrior outweighing the Ranger, evident in his voice.

“I will do nothing to put the lives of this Fellowship or Arda itself in danger!” Legolas countered, bitterly.

“Your distraction is dangerous enough. Please, friend. Do not mistake my words. I do not seek to scold you for whatever weighs so heavy in your thoughts, but nothing must come before the task. I need you at full speed, Legolas.” Aragorn placed a hand on the Princes’ shoulder, respectfully. He did not have the heart to tell Legolas he had tracked him to Haldirs doorstep, was witness to the skirmish of the brothers before leaving to rejoin the Fellowship. It would have to come from Legolas, in his own time. Though Aragorn could feel Legolas being ripped asunder. There would be little time for thoughts of this once the journey continued on…to Mordor.

“And I will be. My bow is in service to Frodo and all of Middle Earth. I will not let you down.” Legolas said truthfully, returning the gesture of Aragorns concern by placing his own hand at the Rangers shoulder.

“Good, my friend.” Aragorn said softly. “Come and let us find rest this night. We leave in the early hours.”

“A moment more and I will find peace.” Legolas said, releasing his hand from Aragorns shoulder.

The Ranger slid back into the Talan, his own thoughts recalling the way he had left his beloved Arwen in Imladris, all but breaking her heart to save her own life and give her reason to seek the West. Aragorn fingered the Evenstar about his neck, lovingly as he settle down into his bedroll.

Legolas was not sure why he had stayed outside the Talan for as long as he did. The better part of an hour, his eyes scanned the woods, in hope of seeing Haldir. Legolas believed the Marchwarden would come to him, to plead his case and make amends for his words to Rumil and Orophin. To taste him one last time.

Resignedly, Legolas turned and headed into the Talan, leaving the High Court dress of the Galadhrim on the outside of the tent. His reverie was uneasy, his body aching for more of Haldirs touch.

*

Haldir hunched within the bow of the Mallorn overlooking the Fellowships’ talan. Legolas was visible to his farseeing eyes, his face locked in comfort and reverie. The Marchwarden wished to come to him, to wake him and offer some explanation before the Prince departed with his comrades. But there was nothing to say. Legolas had become another conquest, a story the Brothers would tell a hundred years from now in fond remembrance.

Haldir drank in the Princes’ sleeping image. The Marchwarden moved cautiously toward the talan with unhearing steps to reclaim Legolas garments, before departing for the borders of Lorien to find and reconcile with his two, angry brothers.

*

The Fellowship stood upon the banks of LothLorien, watching the Lady Galadriel as she moved before each. “To you, Master Meriadoc and Master Peregrin we give to you these Elvish Daggers, used in service to those of the First War. May they keep you safe.” She spoke softly.

Galadriel smiled softly. “To you, Samwise Gamgee, I give you a length of Elven Rope.”

Sam looked dejected. “Not to sound ungrateful, but have you any of those nice shiny daggers left?”

Galadriel laughed softly. “To you, Legolas son of Thranduil, I give you the bow of the Galadhrim. May you use it well.” The Prince bowed his head to the Lady of Light, his fingers dancing over the taut string. The bow was far lighter than his own.

Lowering herself before Frodo, she smiled softly. “And to you, Frodo, I give you the Light of Earendil, our most beloved star. May it be a light for you in dark places, when all other lights, go out.”

Galadriel paused before Aragorn, her fingertips splaying along the Evenstar at his throat. “She has given herself to you.” The Lady said in Elvish. “For her love, I fear the light of the Evenstar will fade. We will not meet again, Elessar.” She kissed his forehead softly.

“You are being tracked.” Lord Celeborn said quietly to Aragorn as Galadriel moved toward the Dwarf. Handing the Ranger an Elven Hunting knife, Aragorn nodded in understanding. The warning was serious.

Gimli received three strands of the Lady Galadriels hair, holding them tight to his heart as the Fellowship began to load into the boats of Lorien, supplied with Lembas bread. The heart heavy Fellowship began to paddle from the tree rooted docks of Lorien, Legolas eyes falling on the vision of the three brothers standing upon the shore.

Haldir was standing a few paces forward as his brothers flanked either side of him, the Marchwardens hands folded at their chests. Legolas studied the strong stature of the three, how steadfast and untouchable they seemed. The Prince could not turn his eyes away from such imposing figures, watching the morning sun glisten from their strung Galadhrim bows. And only then, did Legolas realize, Haldir had no bow, draped over his shoulder. In that moment of realization, the boats caught current. The Galadhrim bow Galadriel had given to him, was Haldirs very own.

The Prince studied it, lifting it to the light as he let the current take the boat carrying he and Gimli. Lifted to the sun, the Prince could see a single long blonde strand of hair wound through the bowstring….

*

“I see the Prince departs LothLorien with a pleasing trinket. How delicate and tasteful of you, Haldir, to insist on such a thoughtful gift. Bound with strands of your own hair. How decadent.” Rumil narrowed his eyes, watching as the boats disappeared over the horizon. “Good Riddance.” He murmured.

“Why your own bow, brother, when there are many in the armory that could have been sent off with him?” Orophin tried to calm the rising tension between Rumil and Haldir.

“For his protection.” Haldir said simply to Orophin, turning from the shores, his eyes upon Rumil. “The danger is passed for you now, Rumil. Legolas leaves these shores for the protection of Middle Earth. Will you weep to his departure?”

Rumil narrowed his eyes, storming off into the Golden Wood. Orophin looked to Haldir, who obviously still held a grudge to Rumil, with a sigh and followed after his brother. Haldir smiled at the nerve he had so cruelly struck in Rumil, though his eyes turned once more to the horizon, the boats carrying the fellowship long gone from Lorien.

*

“I asked for but a strand of her beautiful hair, she gave me three.” Gimli smiled softly, patting his chest. The strands were carefully placed in safety and the Dwarf beamed, proudly.

“A handsome gift.” Legolas smiled softly, paddling the boat. His mind was in Lorien, with Haldir, though he dared not say so. Haldir had not come to him after the Prince stormed off like a spoiled child, confused and afraid of his own desires. Why then would Haldir give such a valuable gift of his own bow?

The Prince remained quiet, even as Aragorn spoke loud enough against the rushing current to point out the statues of the Numenor Kings of Old. There was too much to consider, too many thoughts to plague his mind with the journey ahead. But even in the dark thoughts of the war that would come, Legolas was in thought, devoted, to only Haldir.

Surely, the Marchwardens would accompany the Lord and Lady of Light into the West. Legolas would never see Haldir again, why such a parting gift as this? Was this merely a consolation prize for time spent and sweat spilled in the name of passion? Or, was there something more to come of this?

*

Frodo and Sam left the Fellowship. Boromir passed to the veil of the worlds. Even with Aragorns reassurance, Legolas felt he was helpless and wanted nothing more than to launch the one remaining boat to find the two errant hobbits! Surely the three of them could fit, for the boats were of strong LothLorien construction. The second boat they had in their possession was sent as herald for Boromir, his body held within for burial upon the mighty Anduin.

“We will not abandon Merry and Pippin to torment and death. We travel light. Lets hunt some orc!” The Ranger cried out, clasping his hand over Legolas’ and Gimlis’ shoulders. Both were eager to find Frodo and Sam, but knew it would come to no avail. Frodo had to move on, away from the influence of the Ring upon his closest friends. But Merry and Pippin were taken, even as Boromir fell defending them, valiantly, making amends for the insanity brought about by the Ring…and his desire to take it from the Ringbearer to Gondor.

With renewed strength, the Three left the woods for the Hunt of Uruk-Hai in several days pursuit with no food or rest…nor sigh of their query. A test of endurance that suffered the Dwarf and Mortal Ranger greatly, though Legolas found he could run and fall into Reverie, awaking in mid stride, all the fresher. Such was a blessing of the Elves! Haldir was ever in his thoughts, as was the meaning of such a delicate riddle left strung on the Galadhrim bow.

Overtaking the Uruk-Hai, the three pursued Merry and Pippin only to find the two hobbits had escaped from their bindings and into the Forests of Fanghorn. The Rohirrim, commanded by the Second Marshall, Eomer, swore the two were dead with all the Uruk-hai party. This was not so they would come to find out and the hearts of the three friends were lifted, after so many days of chase to their query. The bonds were broken and small tracks led deep into the haunted forest, away from the scene of the Uruk-Hai slaughter.

“Fanghorn.” Gimli exclaimed, somewhat fearfully, though he would never admit to such. “What madness drove them in there?”

“We are to find out, Gimli. On the Morrow.” Aragorn nodded solemnly, careful to collect the dead fallen limbs for a soft campfire, for fear of upsetting the spirits of Fanghorn. Eomers words came to him even as Elf Elf and Dwarf slept soundly on the borders of the forest. “The White Wizard is cunning. He moves here and there, they say.”

A shape caught Aragorns eye late in the evening as he looked to the borders of the forest. A figure, clothed in white, moved into the confines of the trees. Saruman was near.. and Aragorn was helpless to respond to the White Wizards magic.

Relieved of watch, Aragorn fell into quick slumber. The first in many days chase had finally yielded to rest. Legolas now sat before the fire, holding his bow within his slender fingers, studying the reflected light upon the single strand of Haldirs mane wound through the taut cord. His memory recalled the sharp taste of Haldir upon his lips, the feel of his body entwined within the Princes’.

“Haldir.” Legolas whispered softly upon the wind, lowering his eyes for a single moment to recall the beauty of the Marchwarden of Lorien and the desire to see him but once more.

*

The Morning hours came and once more the three hunters, Legolas, Aragorn and Gimli, tracked the soft imprints in the ground to the very innards of Fanghorn Forest.

“This forest is old, so old that I feel young again. The trees bear much memory and much anger.” Legolas stood amidst the ancient trees of the forest, his keen eyes searching for every sign of life in its confines.

“Stay on your guard.” Aragorn commanded.

“Someone is here. The White Wizard approaches.” Legolas spoke in his native tongue to Aragorn.

“Be prepared. We must not let him speak or he will cast a spell upon us.” The Ranger once more said, even as Legolas pressed an arrow to the string of his bow.

*

Gandalf the White presented himself to the Fellowship, in the forest of Fanghorn. He had returned from the Halls of Awaiting, sent by Illuvatar until his task was at last done. The nature of his task, the remaining Fellowship could only guess, however, for Gandalf was not one to talk openly in any incarnation he might assume. It was known by those who still worshipped Illuvatar and the Valar, that Sauron the Deceiver, a Maiar spirit himself in service to Melkor, was the enemy of all the Maiar spirits, the Istari of Arda. Perhaps it was Gandalfs last task to see him destroyed.

Together, the Reunited friends traveled hard to Rohan for fear of the words they would bring, for Theoden King was long under the spell of Saruman of Many Colors. Merry and Pippin were safe upon the guard of the Ents, this much brought the hunters joy.

Edoras, the city of Rohan, was quiet and solemn upon the approach of the four reunited friends.ndalndalf spoke of Theoden and the influence of the spell that fell over him. For Theoden King no longer recognized friend from foe.

Even as the four entered Rohan Proper, their greeting was dim from Theoden and his council, Wormtongue. Gandalf the White released the King from his bonds of control and for a moment, the reawakened fellowship found rest…even as Theoden mourned for his lost child, Theodred, last of the line of the King.
*

“You have been silent since we left LothLorien. What seems like an age ago, was only in truth, several long weeks in one.” Aragorn sighed softly, coming to stand beside Legolas on the steps of Meduseld.

“There is much to consider, for never before has the weight of Arda rested so heavily upon my heart.” Legolas looked to the sky, finding comfort in the soft stars of Varda, Queen of Heaven, even as they yielded to the threat of morning.

“Something else rests heavy upon your heart. I have seen you cradle the bow of the Galadhrim. The gold that glints from its cord, is it not the hair of Haldir himself, Eldest and Most trusted of the Marchwardens of Lorien?” Aragorn packed his pipe slowly, sure to keep his tone soft and welcoming.

Legolas paused. “It is. A handsome gift from Haldir that I will cherish.”

Aragorn lit his pipe, sparking a flinom tom the gruff of his beard. Puffing, the Ranger watched Legolas’ outline against the Rohan night sky. "Many fates lie in the hands of a hobbit, dear friend.”

“As some are long gone out of my own.” Legolas braced a soft hand on Aragorns shoulder. “I find rest within Meduseld. My ears will be open, for trouble is destined to come to these lands, as sure as the sun rises and sets, red.”

Aragorn nodded softly in understanding. Legolas’ agony, though cleverly hidden, reflected his own thoughts of Arwen and her sailing to the West with all that was left of her Kin. Morning was beginning to break and tiredness swept over the Ranger. He, himself would seek shelter and make peace with his dreams.

*

The Prince of Mirkwood took shelter in the appointments of his chambers in Rohan. Laying his bow and white knives on the floor near his grasp, Legolas slowly slipped into the intricate carved bed. The Mattress was filled with hay and stocked with an overlay of downe, comfortable after finding rest while on the run.

The Prince softly unbraided his hair as he rested his weary form, still feeling the sigh of his muscles from the intense encounter with Haldir. The Marchwarden was beautiful and yet indescribably powerful, a respected and trusted warrior, a captain of the Galadhrim in service to LothLorien. Every moment that the Prince sought the sky for signs of danger…it was Haldirs eyes he saw.

“I can not get the vision of him, the feel of him out of my thoughts.” Legolas shifted in the downe bed, restlessly. “I still feel his touch on my skin, my seed burying deep within him!”

Legolas felt himself growing thick with the memory of Haldir, his fingers slowly tracing the throbbing desire bound within his breeches. The Prince bit his lip softly, feeling the ridges of his most precious crown respond to his intimate attentions. Haldir…

*

Haldir…

The Eldest Marchwarden bathed in the waterfalls of LothLorien before the sun crested to herald a new day. The cold water felt exquisite along his back as he softly massaged sweet scented oils into his platinum tresses. Mid stroke of the massage of foaming oil from his mane, Haldir heard the call, the feel of Legolas over his body, the very scent of the Prince overwhelming his senses. The Marchwarden grasped his hand against the jagged rocks, letting his head fall…the feel of the cool water sliding down the side of his face, dripped from the springs through his nearly flaxen hair.

“Legolas. I feel you. I can hear you…” He whispered softly, tormented by images of the beautiful Prince. His beautiful Prince.

Haldir shifted, lowering his naked form amidst the waterfalls, to his haunches. The Marchwarden felt as though he was losing his mind, his thoughts torn asunder…

“Captain!” The loud voice came from the ridge above the waterfalls. A name he had not been called in many weeks of rest and replenishment. For a moment, Haldir nearly found peace, away from the march of battle, the flash of his sword. For weeks now, the only task for he and his brothers, members within his regiment, had been to take guard of the Golden Wood. A vacation, of sorts. But the words now alarmed him and he rose, slipping his clothes on, the moisture of his flesh keeping them tight to his form. Haldir wondered now if he had heard Legolas call him at all, or was it merely one of his battalion.

“Yes, Elthilin. I am here.” Haldir called back, ascending the ridge.

The Galadhrim, Elthilin, stood with his back to the waterfall, awaiting the Captains climb. Upon hearing Haldirs voice, he turned, bowing his head in respect. “Forgive me, my Lord Captain. I bring a missive from the Lady of Light. She will see you and no other.”

“What is this about?” Haldir tied his hair back, hastily, the wet tendrils clinging to his neck. “Has the border patrol returned already? They are only three weeks in and not due back for four?” The Captain of the Marchwardens cocked an arrogant brow, his features stone chiseled. His all too brief vacation was about to come to an end.

“All strings and Captains have returned to Lorien at the Call of Lady Galad and and Lord Celeborn. They made great haste and covered two weeks worth of ground in one.” Elthilin said with a somber tone to his voice.

“They traveled with unparalleled haste. I will see to the Lady at once.” Haldir nodded and led the way back to The Hall.


*
Chapter 6

The Great Hall of Meduseld was solemn. The fellowship had rested until the night sky slowly inked over Rohan and brought with it a simple feast. All the while, Theoden received reports of the horrors that had befallen his Kingdom while he wandered in a dark sleep rife with evil dreams.

“This is but a taste of the terror Saruman will unleash. All the more potent for he is driven mad by fear of Sauron. Ride out and meet him head on. Draw him away from your women and children. You must fight.” Gandalf said strongly, his hand braced at the arm of the Kings throne.

Aragorn let the bow of the pipe drip over his lower lip. “You have two thousand good men riding north as we speak. Eomer is loyal to you. His men will return and fight for his king.”

Theoden rose from the throne, walking off the dais to stand in the Hall. “They will be 300 leagues from here, by now. Eomer can not help us. I know what it is you want of me, but I will not bring further death to my people. I will not risk open war.”

Gandalf rose, concern flashing in his eyes.

“Open war is upon you, whether you risk it or not.” Aragorn held Theodens gaze, strongly, even as Gimli lowered his eating knife, his eyes upon the King of Rohan. Even Eowyn, Niece of the King and sister to Eomer, second Marshall of the Rohirrim could not believe the bold exchange on behalf of the ranger.

“When last I looked, Theoden, not Aragorn was King of Rohan.” Theoden said coldly.

Legolas could not believe his ears and the politics that assailed them. Aragorn was correct, there was little doubt of it. Gandalf was wise and far seeing. How could Theoden fail to see the truth behind the words of his two friends?

“Then what is the Kings decision.” Gandalf approached Theoden, leaning upon his staff.

Theoden had the look of sorrow in his eyes, his voice calm and steady. “In the morning, we make for the refuge of Helms Deep.” Theoden said, overlooking his assembled guests.

aldialdir rolled to his side, tracing his fingers down Orophins naked backside, his breeches falling open against his hip. “I am much eased of my torment.” The Captain groaned seeing the shiver his finger created against his brothers reddened hind. “You have such exceptional skill in the name of my pleasure, dear brother.”

Orophin moaned softly as he lay upon his stomach, arching his hips to Haldirs touch. “I fear Rumil will become jealous that he was not here to partake of you.” The Marchwarden turned his eyes to his brother, and lover. Haldir had the exquisite afterglow of intense lovemaking, his eyes sharper and clearer now that the fog of desire had lifted.

“Then let Rumil be jealous, though the night is yet young.” Haldir laughed, his finger teasing into the curve of Orophins globes.

Orophin moaned once more, arching his hips with renewed vigor. “Will you forgive him, his trespasses, brother?” His face was softly flushing beneath Haldirs teasing fingertip.

“I have already forgiven him, for I have not been myself. But Rumil will be along shortly.” Haldir said softly. “I wanted him to fester a bit longer before I take the long patrol from the borders of Caras Galadhon and into the west. It will be a long journey with many companies. A journey our kith have not taken in sometime.” Haldir slid his finger deeply into Orophins tight entrance, hearing his brother gasp with delight. He could feel the heat of his seed still coating those exquisite walls.

“The border patrols have brought ill news, then, for our weeks of rest to end?” Orophin groaned, biting his lip as Haldir toyed with him. That was the difference in his voice, a tone he used only when he prepared himself to meet battle.

Haldir arched his finger into the entrance he adored and filled, often. Holding the digit deep in that hot pucker with extreme force and pressure. Orophin groaned, his eyes rolling shut, falling with equal power to Haldirs voice. “Yes, a force will amass here in Lorien to send aid to Men of Rohan, our Lads hes held a vision that must be stopped. We shall wear the mark of Glorfindel to represent Imladris but the volunteers will be led beneath me, as their Captain. Our banners will fly high in the sigil of Rivendell and Lorien, once more.”

Orophin shivered feeling the hot pressure of Haldirs finger, buried deep within him, rubbing his most delicate spot with control and mastery. “AI, Haldir…the realms unified…Why..did she chose you, beautiful brother?”

Haldir slowly rose to his knees, his finger still buried within Orophin. The pressure of his motion sent Orophito sto shivers of pure desire. Haldir sent a second digit into Orophin, hearing him moan against the pillow. The Captain let his lips trail his brothers back, his free hand spreading Orophins hind cheeks to let him view his fingers arching deep within his brother. “I am her Captain. I volunteered. You and Rumil will not be going.” He moaned softly, watching the way Orophins well used entrance accepted him so eagerly.

“Brother…” Orophin moaned, arching his hips back into Haldfingfingers, feeling them press tight against his sensitive prostate, forcing him into whimpers of uncontrolled need. The issue of Haldir leaving without them, forgotten, for the moment.

A knock came to Haldirs door and the Eldest Marchwarden heard Rumil creak behind it, stepping into his Talan. “I have come at a bad time.” Rumil smiled darkly, seeing Orophin groaning uncontrollably beneath Haldirs deeply inserted fingers.

“Ai, Rumil…he feels so good…” Orophin cried out, seeing his beautiful brother enter Haldirs quarters, his body convulsing as Haldir mercilessly tormented his sensitive pucker.

“We will be just a moment.” Haldir said arrogantly, wriggling his fingers deep within his brothers beautiful body as Rumil closed the door.

“His need is thick in the air of this room. He is close.” Rumil groaned at the sight, his own desire throbbing and alert, now.

“Very close, brother.” Haldir slid a third finger hard intophinphin, watching as his brother bucked wildly, groaning and shivering.

“Ai, Haldir…” Orophin cried out. “Your hand, brother, or I will stain your bed!” A moment longer and his desire would coat the very mattress itself!

Rumil charged in, lowering himself to his knees beside the bed, slipping his nimble fingers beneath Orophins thrashing hips.

Orophin hissed, his body shivering with the new sensation of Rumils hand beneath his swollen shaft. “Brother, I come!”

Haldir pumped furiously deep within Orophin. The walls of his beloved brothers entrance tightening against the invasion. “So sweet a taste I will have.”

Rumil moaned softly feeling Orophins hot seed splash into his awaiting fingers.

Slowly, Haldir released Orophin, falling back on his haunches upon the bed. Orophin groaned, rising backward to avoid trailing the hot seed over his brothers mattress. Standing, Orophin stumbled, grasping his clothing. “I will let you two, sort things out, now. But I will return and will have much to discuss.” He smiled, stepping into his breeches, leaving them untied, his shirt barely covering his melting shaft.

“Play nice, my brothers.” Orophin tucked his shirt in, fastening his breeches as he slid out of the Talan, closing the door behind him.

“Haldir..” Rumil began even as his brother grasped his wrist, cutting his desire to apologize before it left his lips.

“A moment, Rumil.” Haldir drew his brothers hand to his mouth, his hot tongue slowly lapping Orophins seed from Rumils palm. “He tastes as sweet as wine.” Haldir groaned.

Rumil bit his lip, the scent and sticky feel of his brothers seed was enticing. Slowly, he lowered his tongue to lap against the side of his hand, his eyes narrowing wantonly.

Haldir felt the heat of Rumils mouth close to his and let his attentions shift from the thick sweet seed, to his brothers hot velvet pink tongue. Rumil groaned, his hand sliding up into Haldirs hair, returning the caress of his brothers tongue with his own. Together, the two brothers devoured what remained of Orophins sticky sweet taste and slowly languished upon each other.

“You forgive me then, my brother.” Rumil groaned into Haldirs mouth, he had longed for nearly a week to feel is brother once more.

“I have..” Haldir teased his brothers tongue, slowly.

“I was wrong to deny your love to Legolas, for you do love him, Haldir, it is not merely desire. I see that now.” Rumil whimpered softly as Haldir withdrew.

“We will speak no more of this.” Haldir said, looking away for a moment before meeting Rumils gaze. He was not sure what he felt for Legolas and even then, he had no desire to spill his feelings so boldly. “You are much better forgion yon your back, beautiful Rumil. Long have I desired you, as you lay with Orophin and the others.”

Rumil rose to the bed, his fingers reclaiming Haldirs hair. “And many nights have I heard you in pleasure and craved the feeling of you within me.”

Haldir stripped his brothers garments from his body with expert fingers. Trailing his touch against Rumils shoulders as he pushed his brother down flat upon the bed, reaching for the oils he had used on Orophin. “You are beautiful upon your back.” Haldir groaned, lowering his breeches, lubricating himself and tossing the recapped phial to the floor.

Rumil lifted his hips, his desire swollen and weeping. “And you are even more stunning when you are atop me.”

“Such flattery, Rumil.” Haldir smiled, darkly as Rumil positioned his calves upon his brothers shoulders. Haldir pressed his crown against his brothers eager entrance. “Your words will go to my head.” He groaned, sliding himself to the hilt within such an exquisite scabbard.

“Ai!” Rumil groaned, shivering as Haldir joined them. “None can take me as you, brother…yes…just like that…” Haldir was holding back…

Haldir grasped Rumil close to him, his hips working in hard, deep thrusts into such a tight and welcoming entrance. “Rumil, how good you feel, by the Valar!”

Rumil arched in counter thrust to Haldir, driving his brother over the edge of desire. “You are holding back…brother, mine.”

Haldir narrowed his eyes. Rumil picked up with Orophin had not. “Do I not please you…” He groaned, his body shivering with waves of pleasure.

“Call his name…” Rumil groaned, knowing what Haldir wanted. “I will be him, for you…to receive you as he has received you…”

“No, I can not.” Haldir slowed his pace, moaning. Rumil felt amazing beneath him, like every time before.

Rumil arched, feeling Haldir nearly disjoin them. “Close your eyes, Haldir…”

Haldir bit his lip softly, doing as his brother asked. The Captain saw only Legolas in the dark of his lids.

Rumil rolled to his stomach, arching his hips to feel Haldirs crown now resting against his entrance. With a violent thrust that brought Rumil nearly to his knees, he cried out, sending Haldir once more, deep within his core. His brother had a soft almost devious smile cresting his lips and he knew of whom Haldir was thinking.

“Legolas…” Haldir moaned the Princes’ name as a scant whisper to the Valar, increasing his pace with brutal force. He leaned over his lover, applying exquisite pressure to feel the hot flat sensitive spot at the base of the prostate, sending Rumil toppling against the edge of sanity.

Rumil bit his lip at the increased force, a frenzy he had never tasted in all the nights he had laid with Haldir…so brutal and yet so tender. Haldir was more eager to please than his brother had ever before known.

“Yes, Legolas, how you take me…Ai, Valar…” Haldir groaned louder now, his hand wrapping around his lovers length, palming it hard with a strict up and down motion. Haldir saw only Legolas, the beautiful face of his prince was flushed in rapture, his eyes clouded with desire, his hair glittering like pure sunlight.

Rumil groaned, his nails clawing into the bed, writhing into his brothers touch swearing he would lose himself in a single thrust of his brothers length if this pace continued.

Haldir felt the convulsions of his lovers entrance, tightening about him to a near strangle hold. “Ai, my love yes…yes…meleth…Come for me, call my name to the Havens!”

Rumil heard Haldirs words and smiled to himself even as he gasped with his next breath. Haldir would never admit he had said it…but he had. Biting his lip, Rumil kept from crying out, arching wildly into his brothers merciless hips and hand.

Haldir groaned, his free hand taking his lover by the hair. “Come with me, Legolas, now…Ai, Eleberth, now!” Hot splashes of thick seed spilled deep into his lovers body…and just then Haldir felt the ribbons splash his hand.

“Ai, Haldir.” Rumil finally groaned, panting like a wild beast.

Haldir came back to his senses now, slowly disjoining his body from his brothers. A look of awe was held in his eyes, for a moment, he believed with all his fury it had truly been Legolas beneath him..

Rumil rolled over, reaching for a the towels Haldir always kept beside the bed when he intended to have company. Wiping his hand clean of his seed, he saw the pale look in his brothers eyes. “Haldir?”

“You should not have asked me to do that, Rumil.” He said, turning away. “I was not here with you, my brother. I am sorry.”

Rumil leaned forward with a slight wince, placing his hand on Haldirs shoulder. “There is no shame between us and never has been, my brother. Look at me.”

Haldir refused, turning his face away from Rumil. But Rumil would not accept his answer, taking his hand beneath Haldirs chin and forcing him to meet his gaze. “You have a look of sadness in your face, brother. Did the game not please you?”

Haldir kissed Rumils hand softly, looking to him as he fought to feign a smile. “It did please me, but as always it is you and Orophin that please me most. We must never fight again, my brother. I can not go this long without the feel of your body, let alone the sound of your voice.”

Rumil smiled, seeing Haldir was only holding himself this way to make him forget that he was in anguish. “It will never happen again, Haldir. By the Valar, I swear it.”

With perfect timing, Orophin returned, not bothering to knock with the hope of catching Haldir and Rumil engaged. “Damn the Graces, I am back later than I wished.”

Rumil laughed, laying back on the bed as Haldir rose, sliding his robes from the closet. “Welcome back, Orophin. It is a shame you did not join us a few moments sooner, it would have been delightful to have my brothers with me the night before I depart to take the Battalion to Rohan.”

Rumil looked to Orophin even as Haldir slipped his Galadhrim robe over his form. “So it will be you to lead them as Captain?”

Orophin entered the room, sitting down beside Rumil, resting his head softly on his beautiful brothers’ shoulder. “That is half the reason I returned here tonight, Haldir. There is much left unsaid. Why must you go so soon and what do you mean we can not follow you?”

Rumil now looked to Haldir, a flash of anger preparing to lick from his gray blue orbs. “We can not follow you? What madness is this?”

Haldir sighed softly, pouring himself a drink. His brothers had gone on every patrol with their battalion, both Rumil and Orophin were highly acclaimed in their skills and exceptionally dedicated to the safety and protection of LothLorien. Within the ranks of Military life, the Marchwardens were highly esteemed and completely professional. The bond the brothers shared was not one displayed once the three were in travel in the name of the Lord and Lady of Light. “Let us not make this an issue, beloved brothers.u aru are both to remain here for the Defense of the Golden Wood should things go ill. Our bonds to each other are served only second to those of the Lord and Lady of Light.”

“Horseshit, Haldir.” Orophin growled, sitting upright now. “You have never left on patrol without us and you are not going to start now. Why in the name of Elbereth herself are you doing this? Why did you volunteer for such madness? And don’t tell me it is your duty, Haldir! You are set to lead a united force, bearing the armor of Glorfindel himself with the blazons of Lorien and Imladris together, into Rohan with the best of our archers and swords! The Ladys’ vision must be horrific indeed! Such has not been even whispered of since the days of the Last Alliance, Elves and Men fighting side by side!”

Haldir inhaled a breath, sharply. “It is what must be done or the hammer strike of Sauron will destroy Rohan. Galadriel has seen 10,000 strong marching in her visions, black shields upon black shields, thick enough to choke the light from this world. I chose to stay and fight for Arda and give the world of men a chance!”

Orophin was getting heated. “How can a few thousand archers and swords from the Elven Kingdoms even hope to make an impact in the rag tag world of the Mortal men of Rohan! It is madness!”

“Mithrandir has returned, he is Olorin once more and wearing the cloak of the White now. Illuvatar himself has sent the Maiar spirit of Mithrandir back to Arda at this moment, for the task is not without hope! I will go to them, I will lead my men there and we shall save Rohan.” Haldir said, his voice deep with conviction and authority.

And then Rumil seemed to sense the root of all things. ”You do not go to Rohan for its people only, nor solely for the vision which the Lady has shared with you. You go…because Legolas will be there. The Fellowship will be outnumbered, and without hope, sure to give out the night with such an army poised to attack. To the Prince of Mirkwood you shall ride as Captain of the Galadhrim and its united forces, if even for one more moment to gaze upon him. Is this so, Haldir?”

Haldir sighed heavily, taking a long pull from his wine. “Aye, my brothers.”

“You would risk death for one more moment, Haldir? This is not the working of a sane mind?” Orophin looked to Rumil in shock. This was not Haldir, the careful and controlled Captain of the Galadhrim.

“Yes, my brothers. There is no answer I can give you that will ease you both. But I do not wish there to be a rift between us, the eve of my departure. I would face what may come, knowing I have my brothers love and devotion and in return I will promise to return to you both.” Haldir said simply and let his gaze wander to the pale blue light of Lorien just outside the window of his Talan.

*

The March to Helms deep was fraught with danger. With Theoden King leading the way, the Fellowship marched just behind, eyes scanning the open fields and trails for the terrors of the dark forces.

And that fear of danger came to pass with less than a day remaining in the week long march. Warg riders, a battalion of them swooped down upon the Rohan travelers. The warriors fought well against the surprise attack and when the battle had ended many lives had fallen with Valor.

Legolas saw Gimli first and his heart was alight. The Dwarf had become more than a mere companion, but a friend as well. The sturdy spirit of Gimli, Gloins’ son, was a force to be reckoned with. The Prince scanned the wounded and fallen for signs of his dear friend Aragorn…and no sight was to be found.

“Aragorn!” Legolas cried out.

Coming up along the cliffs, an Orc choked on his blood, his hand held out as an offering. The Evenstar hung limply in the Orcs grip. The jewel of the Lady Arwen Undomiel of Imladris…a gift to her love. Aragorn cared for the jewel, never removing it from his flesh, for fear it was all he would love and hold of his Arwen in such dark times.

“Where is my friend?” Legolas growled, leaning down and grasping the Orc by the holsters.

“Tell me and I will ease your passing!” Gimli threatened, his axe blade poised and ready to strike.

“He took a little tumble off the cliff.” The Orc sputtered black blood.

“You lie!” Legolas said horrified, hoisting the Orc further upward with pure anger.

The Orc died before another word could be uttered and Legolas took the Evenstar from the beasts’ grip, his eyes wide in shock and disbelief. With movements so quick even Gimli could not keep up, Legolas rose to the precipice and studied the waves of the waters below for any sign of his fallen friend.

Theoden came forth to comfort Legolas, urging both he and Gimli to rally round and continue the journey. But the Prince could not move, such sadness gripped his heart as his hand cradled the Evenstar. Not Aragorn. Not the one mortal he trusted above all else. How could this be? How did it come to this?

Gimli forced Legolas to move along though the Elf Lord was lost even to his own thoughts. Pain gripped his heart with such force, he swore he would burst in two…he swore he would burst in two…

*

Haldir stood before the Lady of Light, bowing his head softly, his body draped in the armor of Glorfindel, his red cloak catching the morning breeze.

“Go with speed to Rohan, Haldir of Lorien, Captain of the Galadhrim and let nothing halt your progress.” Galadriel said softly, placing her hand upon the Captains shoulders. “May the Grace of Lorien shield you and may your sword serve Arda, with justice and truth in each motion.”

“The Vision of the Lady of Light shall be halted and Rohan saved. By my blood, I swear it to you, my Queen.” Haldir said with conviction and turned to face the battalion before him. “We ride hard to Rohan and the Mountain Refuge of Helms Deep. Fall in!”

Haldir came before Orophin and Rumil. His brothers held the rein of his steed and looked to the captain with wounded eyes. “Go with safety, brother. Go with love.” Orophin said softly but could not embrace his brother before the eyes of so many.

“You will be long in our thoughts, brother. Take the high roads to the Border, it will save you time. Our love is with you.” Rumil held the rein of Haldirs horse even as the Captain mounted, holding his hand to his heart before his beloved, beautiful brothers.

Rumil and Orophin did the same, their hands to their hearts as they fared Haldir well.

“The day is not dark enough for such faces. I will return to you.” Haldir nodded and turned his steed. “We Ride!” He called out and spurred his horse to impossible speed.