A Healing Touch

I saw the LOTR Trilogy on Tuesday!!! It was awesome! And ROTK was so cool! Legolas is absolutely gorgeous. I don't want to give too much away but near the end of the movie, he's wearing a white shirt and a silver circlet around his head! And Elrond actually SMILES when Aragorn and Arwen kiss! YOU PEOPLE HAVE TO GO SEE IT!!! I was kind of disappointed though that Elladan and Elrohir weren't in it, andre wre were some really good looking scenes in the movie trailer that weren't in it, but hopefully those will be on the extended version. Oh yeah, and I just have to say this one last thing, Denathor has worse table manners than a pig, that guy's a complete psyco. LMAO, wait till you see what Gandalf does to him. Now to the reviews!

Shadow Archer: I know! They may as well take the R rating down all together. That's fair enough, I don't usually read Mary Sue's, but I should warn you in some later chapters the slash is VERY graphic. BTW I love the way you sign your review with the little arrow.

louise_oblique: Thanks, merry christmas and happy holidays to you too, and I'm glad you liked the chapter. *hugs*

Aly: Thanks, aren't they just so cute together?

giggle: Yes, that was the basic point I was trying to get across, spanking doesn't hurt just the kid, but the parent too. I'm glad you liked Glorfindel's back story, it took me more then an hour to come up with one for him. How can anyone picture Legolas as anything but lovable? He's so cute, I just wanna squeeze him and never let go. So... I can come out of my hiding place now? And not cower anymore like Saddam-- I mean... a rat?

Steph: You're making me blush... and grin for that matter. Yeah, Legolas, Glorfindel and Elrond are just adorable together.Thank you.

Isisisatis: Did I spell that right? Yes, I realize that spanking is as hard on the parent as it is on the child, if not worse. I'm not a parent exactly, (my animals are my kids), but I know the emotional pain that goes with it. I'm glad you love the story, lol. I'm glad to know my sore attempts at writing fan-fiction aren't a waist of time.

102000: Lol, no, don't cry. Here's more.

SILVER: The wait is over, here's more.

Mawgy: LOL, yup, half truth works. But, yeah, I was originally plannin wrn writing a scene for that, but then in occured to me it wouldn't make sense. Elrond asked him to take off his pants, if he would have forcefully removed them himself that would have caused alarm. Besides, Elrond has seen Legolas naked countless times before. He's a healer, and as such frequently looks over Legolas, and he sometimes bathes him. Aside from Glorfindel, Elrond is the only person Legolas has grown to trust, not only because he's a healer but because he's been taking care of him since his father left. LMAO, Yeah, I had loads of fun writing the scene where Legolas gave Elrond the vase, but like I said, it was oddly shaped which indicates that it wasn't perfect, but cute non the less. The part with Legolas and Glorfindel was fun too, though a bit frustrating. It took me over an hour to come up with a good back-story for Glorfindel. I've really been suffering from writer's block lately. Anyway, here's your next update.

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(A/N) There were originally five parts to the younger years of Legolas' life, but try as I might I could not get this thought out of my head and figured that it would be a cute idea for a chapter. It's pretty pointless and totally irrelevant to this story but my mind wouldn’t leave me alone about it. What would happen if a young Legolas found a baby dragon in the woods?

I should warn you guys. You may want to go to the bathroom now and heat up some popcorn because this is one really, really, really long chapter. I think I may have outdone myself.

Disclaimer: Yeah, I wish. I mean... I don't own anything.

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"Very good, Legolas. Now, what is the difference between Myrrh and Marshmallow?" Elrond looked critically from the book he held in front of him to the elfling that stood before him. He was determined to teach the prince everything he knew about healing herbs and since there was so much danger lurking in Thranduil's realm it would be beneficial that he know such technique in the means that some crisis should take place. Now, the Lore Master was seated in a large elaborate chair in his library, reviewing with Legolas what he had studied.

"Myrrh is used to sooth inflamed tissue in the throat and mouth and Marshmallow is used to treat coughs and sore throats."

"Well done. Now can you tell me the difference between Calendula and Marigold?"

"There is none. It's the same plant."

"Excellent," Elrond nodded in satisfaction to his pupil. "I can see you have studied quite hard, Legolas. Quite frankly, you have exceeded my expectations, I'm very pleased. You have done well."

Legolas looked up at the elf lord, a proud smile lighting his features. "Thank you, my lord."

Elrond stood then and replaced the text he held to its rightful place on the bookshelf before turning back around to address the elfling. "Well, penneth, I can see tha--"

The elf lord was cut short when a flash of red hair came whirling into the room, crashing into Legolas almost causing both children to fall face-first on to the floor. "Narofea," Legolas exclaimed to his friend after regaining his balance. "what is it?"

"Legolas," the red haired elfling cried. "you have to come see this quickly!"

"See what?"

"I will show you when we get there."

"Where?"

"Yes, that is precisely what I wish to know." Elrond watched the elflings exchange with a raised eyebrow but remained silent until now. "Is there a reason, Narofea, that you have come charging into my study and have interrupted our lesson?"

The elfling looked up, wide eyed at the ancient elf lord and stammered. "I--uh--well--"

"Why don't you answer the former question first."

"Not far, I swear, it's within our borders, my lord. In the forest."

Elrond sighed, smoothing back his ebony hair with one hand. "You two know how I feel about you going into the forest alone."

"We won't be long, sir. Honest, we'll be back before dinner."

"Please, Elrond?" Legolas pleaded.

"I suppose," Elrond yielded, silently scolding himself. "but stay out of trouble. And if I here of any mischief making, Legolas, no dessert for a month."

"What!?!" as Legolas twirled back around to gawk at the elf lord in disbelief, Narofea firmly gripped his arm and all but dragged him out of the room.

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"So what was it you wished to show me, Narofea?" The two elflings were making there way through a densely packed region of foliage, climbing over fallen logs and rocks and sidestepping or hopping over ditches while pushing their way past narrow, but cramped trees.

"It's just around here, Legolas." climbing over another large rock, that was roughly around the size of a Mumakil's head, the children stopped several paces in front of a thick bush. "Shh, it’s over here, be silent." Narofea whispered, slowly approaching the plant, readjusting his pack on his shoulder. He hunched down and motioned his companion to do the same. "Come and look."

Cocking his head to the side, Legolas slowly crawled towards the bush. Gripping a rather large branch, he slowly pulle bac back and let out an involuntary gasp at what he saw.

Before them, huddled against the root of the bush, was an emerald coloured baby dragon. Its eyes were a sky blue and two barely visible horns were growing on each side of its head, with a long row of gold coloured spikes running down its forehead to the very end of its arrow shaped tail. Wings that were protruding from its withers were folded up nicely at its side and all four legs were curled up delicately against it, much like a lying dog.

Legolas' mouth remained hanging open and Narofea grinned at him. "Is that what I think it is?"

"Yes, Legolas. A real live dragon." the prince went to reach for it but his friend immediately grabbed his wrist and yanked it back. "Don't touch it! It might bite you or worse, breathe fire at you."

Legolas looked at his friend sceptically. "Come on, Narofea, he's only a babe. He looks harmless to me."

"Harmless? Look at those claws, it could very well tear us to shre--aah!"

The two elflings jumped backwards as the dragon jumped out of the bush in front of them, making an odd whining noise that emanated from the back of its throat. Looking nervously around for any means of defence and finding none, Narofea took off his pack and threw it at, or rather beside the small creature. When the pack landed with a thump against the leafy ground, the reptile flinched but did not move away. Instead it cautiously sniffed the bag, burrowing its head inside it, several seconds later dragging out what appeared to be dried meat and began wolfing it down.

The elflings continued to stare at the beast in astonishment. "See that, Legolas? That could have been your hand. We should leave, now."

"Now?" Legolas' brow furrowed as he watched his friend timidly rise to his feet and take several steps backwards. "What was the point of even bringing me here if we were only going to leave him?"

"Him?"

"The dragon."

"I thought it would be exciting to show you."

"So you're just going to leave it here?"

"That was the original plan."

Legolas glanced at the small creature whom was watching him intently. "But he might die if we don't help him."

"Nonsense, I'm sure its mother will be back for him soon."

"Dragons don't just leave their young, Narofea. Besides, I'm sure if there was a fully grown dragon frequently romping around Imladris someone would bound to notice. Maybe he's lost."

"Even if so, Legolas, what are we supposed to do about it?"

Legolas furrowed his brow at his friend before turning his head in the direction of the winged reptile. Slowly, he crawled over to it. At first the creature backed up several paces, staring wide eyed at the small elf but then Legolas reached out a hand and the creature slowly approached him, sniffing his hand curiously. "Legolas, no," Narofea whispered. "It'll bite you."

Legolas ignored Narofea's plea, and the dragon slowly crawled into his lap, coming nose to snout with Legolas and for a long moment the two stared into each others' eyes with curiosity. When the dragon suddenly moved, Legolas flinched but remained still aas qas quite surprised when the animal curled up in his lap. Legolas smiled, carefully picking the small creature up, which was no bigger than a large house cat and with the other hand picked up Narofea's abandoned bag and tossed it at him as he began walking back towards the Last Homely House. "Come on, lets go before were late for dinner."

A shocked expression remained on Narofea's face. "You're serious, aren't you? Legolas, You'll never be allowed to keep it. Elrond will kill you when he finds out."

Legolas smirked. "Elrond doesn't have to know."

"Legolas, be reasonable. How in Arda are we ever going to sneak that thing into the house without anybody knowing?"

Legolas stopped in mid-stride, staring at Narofea's pack. "I have an idea."

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"You're early." Erestor said in a tone that could only be described as disbelief.

Legolas and Narofea stood frozen in the center of the corridor, giving each other worried glances. Unconsciously Narofea hefted his now much heavier bag more securely around his shoulder. "Um...yes, lord Erestor. There wasn't anything too interesting to do."

"I see. Then why was it, Narofea, that you came dashing in here disrupting the entire household earlier this morning?"

"Oh, uh... I just wanted to show Legolas an odd looking boulder."

"A boulder? and what pray tell was so interesting about this boulder?"

"Cha..... it was shaped like a.... a dragon's head?"

"I see." Erestor replied plainly with a raised eyebrow. He did not have time to make a proper reply though as another elf beckoned to him from the other direction. The advisor waved him off and just before he left he turned back to the elflings, staring pointedly at Narofea's pack. "You may want to lesson your load, Narofea, lest you strain your back." that said he walked down the hall.

Narofea turned to Legolas. "He knows were up to something," he whispered. "a clever one, him."

Legolas nodded. "Come on." Legolas lead him up to his chambers and securely shut the tapestry behind him before both collapsed with a sigh on his bed.

"Now what?" the fiery haired elf drawled.

Legolas shrugged his shoulders, reaching over for the pack that Narofea had let drop on the bed and opened its flap. The creature within shook its body, much like a wet dog would, before cautiously crawling out of the bag as it began to sniff the air around it.

"Legolas, what if it has to pee?"

the prince's brow shot up, he had not thought about that. "Well... we could train him to use the privy."

Narofea rolled his eyes. The two were silent for several seconds but immediately turned around when they heard something akin to growling. Legolas gasped. "Nuarhir, no! Bad." the small dragon was shaking a pillow in its mouth, feathers beginning to scatter through the room. Legolas grabbed the pillow in an attempt to yank it out of the creature's mouth, but it just gripped it tighter and the fight for the pillow soon became a game of tug-of-war.

"Nuarhir? Legolas, you cannot name it. If you name it, you become attached to it."

"So?" Legolas grunted, still trying to reclaim the pillow.

"How long do you think you'll be able to keep this thing before somebody finds out? In a few years it will be bigger than a horse."

"Then we'll just keep him in the stables." Legolas snarled through clenched teeth. He then suddenly yelped in surprise and fell backwards off the bed as the dragon finally relented its hold.

"Legolas! By that time he'll be big enough to eat a horse."

Legolas remained on the floor lying on his back for several moments, his elbows propping his upper half up as he shook his head with a rain of feathers falling from the golden tresses. "Then we'll just have to train him to not eat horses." Legolas finally stood and brushed himself off before re-seating himself on the bed.

"What is all this 'We'? I never agreed to bring him back here and besides, it doesn't work that way. It's in a dragon's blood to hunt, they can't help it."

Legolas sighed, and pulled the small creature into his lap, stroking its glossy scales affectionately, though it paid little heed as it began gnawing on the headboard of the bed, leaving small dent marks from the dragon's teeth. "Nuarhir, daro!" Legolas attempted to pull the dragon away, having considerable difficulty as it clung to the headboard with its front claws and making noises of protest.

Suddenly the house bell rang indicating that it was now dinnertime and the two boys jerkedir hir heads to stare at each other worriedly. \ wha what do we do?"

Legolas bit his lip nervously. "We can't bring him out there. Do you think he will be all right if we leave him here? We won't be long, we'll eat quickly and save some table scraps for him."

"He should be fine. I mean how much trouble could he possibly get into hirthirty minutes?"

The prince nodded and the two elflings stood, Legolas setting the dragon down on his bed and stroked him one last time. Narofea timidly reached out a hand but before he made contact with the beast it took a snap at him and the boy quickly recoiled with a yelp. "That thing hates me!"

Legolas smirked but turned to the side so it could not be seen by his companion. "Nuarhir, you be good. We'll be back soon."

The small creature watched as the elflings left the room, closing the tapestry back behind them. After scratching its neck with its hind leg, it stood to follow the two-leggeds and gracefully bounded off the bed and towards the entryway, but stumbled as it came into contact with the thick cloth barrier. The al sal snorted at the tapestry in annoyance an went over to the corner and nudged its way between the small space of the tapestry and the door frame and wiggled its small body through, stumbling several paces foreword as it freed its self. Flapping the small undeveloped wings to readjust them at its side, it curiously made its way down the hall, stopping at another door frame and poked its head under another curtain, finding the room empty.

Nuarhir slunk in the room, making odd honking noises as it searched for its companions. This room was slightly larger and adorned two beds, and a dresser sitting in between at the wall to separate them, with a velvet red chair on each side. On the other side of the room, beside the fireplace, stood a rather large window with burgundy coloured drapes pulled to each side. The creature's head raised and ran towards it and leapt up, only to come into contact with an invisible barrier and fall back onto the ground. Nuarhir snorted, shaking his body, and again attempted to jump through the window, again with the same result. Jumping on to the windowsill this time, the dragon began pawing and scratching at the invisible force field and growing frustrated turned to the curtain and scrambled up, leaving long rips and tear marks in it before leaping onto the bookshelvesippiipping several times and leaving several books to fall to the floor as Nuarhir continued its way across and jumped off to slide down one of the bed posts, leaving its claw marks in the furniture.

Becoming frustrated at not being able to find his two-leggeds, the small dragon began taking pillows and blankets in his mouth, shaking and ripping them to pieces, while he continued to claw and the wooden headboards. After a while he began to tire himself out and eventually stopped his rampage, deciding instead to return to the room where he had left and just wait for tittlittle elves there and left the now trashed bed chamber without a trace.

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Down in the dining hall Elrond and his house were gathered at the table, he of course, sitting at its head. To his right were seated Erestor, two of councouncillors and several guard. On his left were Glorfindel, Legolas and several attendants, Narofea, and his parent being three of them. The house seemed to be in higher spirits today, most likely because it was the day that the house's princes, Elladan and Elrohir, were expected to return. The room was full of chattering and the sound of silverware on dishes.

Legolas was doing little talking as he quickly ploughed food in his mouth, barely chewing, eager to return to his new pet. Glorfindel was the only one who noticed, but scowled at him none the less. "Legolas," he quietly hissed, ing ing slightly over to the younger elf. "mind your manners. You will make yourself sick."

Legolas froze, looking at the seneschal through the corner of his eye before slowly bringing his fork back to his mouth and taking more sensible bites and chewing properly. When Glorfindel turned his head to join a conversation with Erestor and Lindir, Legolas slowly slid the meat off his plate into the handkerchief draped over his lap and wrapit fit for the little dragon. He didn't care much for meat anyway, considering it barbaric to eat a one living creature's dead flesh. He considered it cruel as well, ever since the first, and last time, Glorfindel had taken him hunting. The seneschal had shot down a large boar, nearly causing Legolas to faint. He had gone into hysterics then, crying and yelling at Glorfindel, whom stood shocked in the accusing eyes of the elfling, at a loss of what to do. The prince had refused to even look at Glorfindel for the next week, appalled that his beloved mentor would kill an innocent creature for his own gratification.

After the next course of the meal, Legolas' favourite, dessert, he and Narofea slinked back up to his room and settled on the bed, relieved to see the little dragon curled up on the pillows. "Nuarhir," Legolas whispered. The dragon's head slowly rose as he blinked tiredly at the elfling and honked happily at his return. The creature rose and stretched out its limbs before prancing over to the flaxen haired elf. "I have something for you." Legolas pulled the napkin out of his jerkin and revealed the meat slices, offering it to the animal who sniffed at it curiously then gulped the pieces down greedily.

Narofea frowned at the small creature. "I suppose gluttony doesn't mean anything to him." Legolas rolled his eyes and continued to feed the small creature. Narofea sighed. "Will you be all right here? Elwithil's bringing his horse to the shop and My father needs my help shoeing it."

"I suppose. I have to finish reading a chapter of my book anyway. I expect Erestor will want to quiz me in the morrow to see if I’ve been keeping up with my history lessons."

"All right. Then I will see you tomorrow?" Legolas nodded. "All right, then. Farewell. And keep that thing out of trouble."

"You won't tell anyone, will you?"

The elfling snorted. "Of course notsidesides, who would believe the prince of Mirkwood was harbouring a dragon in his room? Good night."

"Good night." after Narofea passed through the tapestry, Legolas sighed and retrieved a thick book from atop his shelf before making himself comfortable on the bed and opening the novel in his lap.

After about an hour of studying, Nuarhir distracted Legolas out of his reverie when he jumped down on the floor and began snif aro around in circles. Legolas immediately knew what was wrong, as he so frequently occupied himself with playing with the hounds in Thranduil's palace. "Oh no, we have to get you to the privy and fast." Looking around, and spotting Narofea's forgotten backpack, he quickly gathered the dragon in it and sped quickly down the hall and into the privy, locking the door shut behind him. After that was done Legolas quickly pulled the creature out of the pack anacedaced him in the straw so it could relieve its self. don done, Legolas sighed in relief before cleaning up after Nuarhir and struggled to put him back in the bag, the dragon resisting to go back in and it soon became an all out struggle.

The small creature wriggled out of Legolas' grasp as he tried pulling the pack over his head and scampered to the other side of the room, attempting to run up the wall before the two-legged could catch him. Legolas went to tackle the dragon with little effect, the beast easily jumping from wall to wall, jumping on to one of the shelves and causing bottles to fall of its ledge before jumping down and tripping over an empty metal pale and a mop, causing a loud clatter.

Glorfindel was just walking by the small room reading a scroll when a sudden crash caught his attention, stopping him mid-stride. His brow furrowed as grunting noises and more rattling issued within the room and he immediately recognized the voice. Cocking his head to the side, he slowly approached the door and knocked on it. "Legolas, are you all right in there?"

Legolas mentally cursed. He now had a firm hold on the struggling rogue dragon, pinning him down on the floor. "Uh... yes, I'm fine."

The seneschal placed his hand on the outer latch of the door. "Are you sure? 'Tis all right if you need help, you kno--"

"Don't open the door!" Glorfindel quickly recoiled his hand at the panicky command.

Legolas held the two front paws of the dragon firmly and ed ted the pack over his head and body, tightly securing the flap before hoisting it over his shoulder and finally slid the lock over and pushed open the door, confronting the mighty Balrog slayer whom adorned an odd expression on his face. "There seemed to be a quite a bit of crashing and banging in there, Legolas. Are you certain you are well?"

"Yes, lord Glorfindel, I swear I am fine."

Glorfindel's face was blank. "Hm. Very well. I have work to complete, penneth. Elrond will be in momentarily to draw your bath... That pack looks a little heavy for you. Would you like me to carry it to your chambers?"

Legolas latently tightened his hold. "No, thank you. I can manage it." Glorfindel nodded and without another word walked past him and down the stairs. Legolas sighed in relief and hurriedly made his way back to his chambers.

Once there Legolas placed the bag on the floor and let the dragon out and Legolas could almost swear that the creature was scowling at him. "Nuarhir, you cannot be loud like that. If anyone finds out about you I won't be able to keep you. What if we..." Legolas' next sentence was cut off as he heard light footsteps approach his room. "Lord Elrond." Legolas muttered. Acting on intuition, the elfling quickly shoved the dragon under the bed, hushing him when he made a sound of protest and quickly sat on his bed, picking up the forgotten book and laying it in his lap, looking intently at it.

When Elrond pushed past the tapestry, he held two large pales of steaming hot water and headed directly for the bathtub behind the secondary curtain in the room, pouring the hot water in the already half filled basin. "Come, Legolas. Time for your bath."

Legolas slid off the bed, laying his book aside once more and walked towards the elf lord. "I can bathe myself, lord Elrond."

"Humour me, then. Put my mind at ease so I know you are safe. Is this water too hot for your liking?"

Legolas dipped a finger in. "Nay, it's good." Elrond looked pointedly at Legolas and he sighed, turning slightly away as he stripped his clothes before descending into the relaxing warm water. Elrond sat on the basin's edge, scrubbing Legolas' back while the prince himself washed his front and lower regions. By the time Elrond was helping the prince wash his hair, Legolas suddenly cringed as he saw the silhouette of the baby reptile slinking around the floor just behind the curtain. Elrond paid no heed though, focussing on the task at hand, massaging the soap into the scalp while making sure not to get it in the child's eyes. Legolas' scrutiny remained fixed on the animal even when the Imladris lord rinsed the shampoo out of his flaxen mane but as footsteps could be heard approaching, Nuarhir backed up to the corner of the curtain, hiding just behind it at the wall where he could not be seen.

Erestor pushed past the tapestry, and Legolas deliberately brought his knees up to his chest to cover himself. The prince was naturally shy and aside from his parents and brothers, Elrond and Glorfindel were the only ones he ever allowed to see him in the nude. These people he trusted, and trust was something he did not hold for many people, mostly in regards to the orc attack, another factor why he was so shy of his nudity. Erestor's gaze was firmly locked on Elrond's, though hood ood seemed to be bland, his eyes were bright with cheerfulness. "Lord Elrond, your sons have returned from their excursion. They await you in the Halls of Fire."

Though Elrond's face remained a stony mask, his grey orbs betrayed him as they seemed to glint with delight. "Very well, I will be down in a moment."

"I can finish by myself, my lord."

Elrond glanced down at the elfling. "Are you sure, penneth?" with an affirmative nod from the prince, Elrond nodded and stood, walking out the room.

Legolas unintentionally glanced at where he had seen his dragon last. Erestor noticed this and followed the elfling's gaze but saw nothing. Legolas suddenly looked away to glance at the advisor and gave him a short smile. Erestor stared suspiciously at him for a short moment before he too left the room.

After the footsteps had faded into the distance, Legolas let out another sigh, mentally thanking the Valar that Erestor did not see the green tail of the little beast that poked its way from out the other side of the drapes. Legolas clicked his tongue. "Come here, Nuarhir."

The little dragon poked its head around the corner of the curtain, and loped its way over to his elf, jumping up on to the ledge, his claws making an irritated screeching sound as they slipped against the metal basin before it plunged into the water, splattering the clear liquid on the floor in all directions as it paddled around contentl the the water, using his wings as if they were fins, and his tail as if it were a propeller, slithering like a snake through the water. Legolas giggled as it continued to splash around but reminded himself that the twins had returned and he had better get dressed and so climbed out of the tub, then reached over and pulled Nuarhir out and set him on the ground. The dragon shook his body free of the water, sending shimmering droplets of water across the floor while Legolas pulled on a simple nightgown and breeches and quickly ran a brush tgh hgh his damp tresses. He motioned for Nuarhir to stay in the room, whom in response glared at him but did as told while Legolas slipped on light slippers and made his way past the tapestry and down the stairs. The dragon sighed before jumping back on the bed and making himself comfortable on one of the soft cushy pillows.

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Legolas bounded ithe the Halls of Fire, leaping into the arms of the first twin within view, whom he recognized as Elladan. Few could tell the difference between the sons of Elrond, but Legolas had learnt to recognize them by their hair length. Elladan had always worn his hair slightly longer then Elrohir's. But aside from that Legolas could always tell them apart from their eyes. While identical in colour, the elder twin's eyes always seemed to hold a retained suffering that was stburiburied deep within his heart. The depression of the guilt he still held for being unable to save his mother, and the unyielding hate he held for those whom had made her suffer, and the blood lust for vengeance.

Elladan chuckled heartily as he hoisted the elfling into his arms, whom hugged him tightly around his neck. "Greenleaf! Ai, 'tis wonderful to see you again."

"'Tis wonderful to see you as well." Legolas turned his gaze from Elladan to Elrohir whom stood with his father, Glorfindel and Erestor. "Elrohir!"

Elrohir grinned from ear to ear as he approached the elfling. "Ah, Legolas!" the elder twin handed the prince to his brother who took him eagerly into a tight hug. "How are you? Have you been behaving yourself while we've been gone?"

"Well..." Legolas started guiltily but was interrupted by Elrond.

"Oh, believe me, he's caused enough mischief to keep all of Imladris on its toes." the elf lord jested.
rohirohir chuckled. "Well, good. We need someone to keep thingsereseresting while we aren't here."

"Honestly, the two of you are a bad influence on him," Elrond chided. "Well now, the hour is late and I believe it is far past a certain elfling's bedtime."

"Awe, can I not stay up just a little longer?" Legolas mewled.

Elrond approached the elfling with a smirk, relieving Elrohir of his charge. The Lore master replied to the child with a playful kiss on the small nose. "No." Legolas snuggled into the elf lord's body heat. "Besides," Elrond continued. "I believe I will retire soon myself."

"As will I," inquired Glorfindel. "besides I am certain that after such a long journey the twins would enjoy some time to themselves."

"Now come," Elrond said. "your bed calls for you."

"All right," Legolas sighed. "Good night, Elladan, good night, Elrohir."

"Good night, penneth."

"Sweet dreams, Legolas."

Elroarriarried the prince up to his chambers, pulling the blankets down as he lay the prince down. Nuarhir must have heard them coming because he was nowhere in sight. Most likely under the bed, Legolas thought, he was already half asleep to worry. Elrond perched on the edge of the bed and soothingly ran his fingers through Legolas' golden hair.

Glorfindel arrived several seconds later. It was a nightly ritual that he would tell Legolas tales and stories. The seneschal sprawln thn the velvety chair beside the elfling's bed, and began to tell him a tale of, coincidentally, dragons and knights. The Balrog slayer was so wrapped up in his story that he did not notice Legolas flinch as he reached a part in which a mighty warrior had thrust its sword into a dragon's heart. When Glorfindel finished with a smile, Legolas stared blankly at him with half lidded eyes before he spoke. "Not all dragons are bad, you know."

The seneschal merely chuckled. "Who told you that?"

"Nobody. I just know." he replied drowsily. Elrond continued to pet Legolas' hair, an effect he knew made the child sleepy.

Glorfindel smiled. "Of course you do," he leaned down and placed a chaste kiss on the elfling's brow. "Sleep."

Elrond followed suit before blowing out the candles and exiting the room. Once the elves were out of ear shot, Legolas quietly called to his dragon. "Nuarhir, come." There was a quiet honking noise before the small creature slinked from under the bed to jump up beside him. Legolas lifted the covers so the dragon could crawl underneath before he soon fell into blissful sleep.

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Glorfindel silently chuckled to himself as he lay in bed beside his lover, hands folded behind his head as his thoughts wandered to Legolas' earlier decree. Elrond rolled over, his bear chest laying partially on Glorfindel's. "What is it that you find so amusing?" the elf lord murmured with a half smile.

"Legolas," the seneschal replied. "his heart must be truer than gold if he really believes a beast of Morgoth could be good."

"hm," Elrond mumbled. "his heart is pure, he will make an excellent warrior one day."

"Do you honestly believe that, meleth-nin? Yes, his heart is pure, but that may very well be his downfall. If he were to ever hesitate in battle he could very well be killed. Besides, I don't even think he has yet forgiven me for that wild boar incident. I believe I may have traumatized him for life."

Elrond fought the urge to chuckle as he imagined a tiny elfling seething through tears at his mentor, actually making him cringe despite the fact that he had fought in the most perilous battles. "I am sure he will eventually forgive you."

"Aye," Glorfindel replied absently. Another thought struck him. "Elrond?"

"hmm?"

"When you bathed Legolas this evening did you notice anything... unusual?"

Elrond furrowed his brow. "No, why? Has he said something to you?"

"No, no, It's just... I was walking past the privy and I heard a considerable amount of ... grunting."

Elrond raised an eyebrow. "Do you believe he may be suffering from some medical problem? Constipation, perhaps?"

"I honestly don't know."

"I will examine him in the morrow."

"There was also... an awful amount of ruckus in there, bottles dropping, clattering on the floor, odd things such as that. And when I went to open the door he all but yelled at me not to."

"You know Legolas, Glorfindel, he is painfully shy but I will speak to him." Elrond sighed. "Now, though, I would like to enjoy the peaceful time I have for the next several hours." The ebony haired elf leaned down his head, taking hold of his lover's lips with his own, slowly licking over the bottom with his tongue, seeking entrance. Glorfindel complied as he pulled the younger elf completely atop him, wrapping his arms about his waist, and soon their tongues were entangled in a battle for dominance, dancing against each other and exploring the humid caverns which they claimed from one another. Their passion was short-lived however when an enraged cry echoed throughout the halls.

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The twins stared in horror at their thoroughly demolished bedroom. The chamber was in shambles, curtains torn apart, books scattered across the floor, furniture that had apparently been clawed apart, and ripped open pillows, its feathery contents scattered throughout the room.

Elladan's surprised cry had apparently awoken most of the household as three four pairs of feet could be heard echoing through the halls and came to an abrupt stop at their tapestry. Elrond was the first to come in, dressed in a simple loose robe, fwed wed by Glorfindel and Erestor whom were dressed in a similar state and little Legolas whom was tiredly rubbing the sleep out of his eyes with one fist but was immediately jolted awake at the mess before him and his jaw involuntarily dropped and his eyes went wide. "Are you two all right... What in Arda happened here?"

"I haven't any idea, adar," the younger of the two answered.e cae came in and our chambers were as you see them now."

"Sweet Elbereth, does somebody have some rogue cat wandering this house?" the elder twin grumbled.

"Those claw marks are far too large to belong to any feline," muttered the seneschal. "whatever did this was no tamed beast in the least."

"What I would like to know is how this creature could have possibly gotten in here without anyone knowing. The windows are closed and there hasn't been any other trace of its presence."

Legolas gulped, his lips parting slightly. Glorfindel noticed the prince' apprehensive expression and mistook it for fear of the nameless creature that was now lurking within the house's inner walls and so picked him up into his arms, momentarily surprising the elfling.

"Well, either way," Elrond replied. "we can do nothing about this until dawn. The two of you will have to sleep in the guest chambers for now. Everyone keep your eyes and ears open and come see me immediately if there is anything amiss. We will take care of this in the morning."

"Aye," Glorfindel agreed. "I'd best get this little one back to sleep." the seneschal pushed past the tapestry, Legolas in arms. The prince scanned the room for a moment and just before the curtain swung closed behind them he caught the accusing gaze of Erestor.

After the two flaxen haired elves had left, Erestor leaned into his lord's ear. "He's up to something."

The elf lord turned to him, confused. "Who is up to something, Erestor?"

"Legolas. Did you see how shocked he looked?"

The elf lord tsked. "He was probably frightened. You must admit this surprised us all."

"Perhaps." the advisor muttered.


Back in Legolas' chambers Glorfindel gently tucked him in, tenderly cupping his cheek. "Would you like me to stay until you fall asleep, glaurohun?"

Legolas shook his head. "No."

"Are you sure? 'Tis all right to be afraid, you know. It keeps your senses sharp."

Legolas shook his head again. "I'm not afraid." he said plainly.

Glorfindel sighed. "Very well, then. But you call me if you do become frightened or if anything odd happens. All right?"

"All right."

"Sweet dreams."

After Glorfindel had left, Legolas quickly lifted the blankets, underneath Nuarhir was curled up at the foot of the bed. The dragon, sensing eyes upon it, quickly snapped open his own blue orbs, its gaze immediately drawing to the elf's and it honked in pleasure and crawled up to him, snuggling against his belly. Legolas looked at the creature sternly. "You are going to get me in so much trouble, Nuarhir. Why did you do that? You destroyed the twins' room, that was bad! How am I ever supposed to keep you if you keep wrecking things?" the dragon continued to stare at Legolas blankly, but the prince was nearly certain that the little imp was smiling at him. "Don't give me that look. What you did was bad. And I'm sure Erestor knows something, he keeps giving me those looks. You must behave."

Legolas sighed, slowly stroking the small creature beside him. After a while he spoke again. "What happened to your nana, anyways? Did you get separated from her, or did you run away?" the small beast's reply was a simple muttering noise. Another thoustrustruck Legolas and his heart contracted at the thought. "Was she attacked by a Knight.... by hunters?" at this, Nuarhir made a drawling honking noise, the the jovial sound he usually made, but much more depressing as he rested his head on the elfling's stomach. "My naneth was killed by hunters... the worst kind. Orcs attacked my home, and spiders, when ada called for defence around the palace a group of orcs managed to sneak in." Legolas sighed, and found himself fighting back unwanted tears at the memory. "One orc found its way into my chambers. Nana was there, she and I were hiding in the cabinet. Two guards were posted outside my room on both sides of the door... but they weren't enough." Legolas suddenly sobbed, as the tears finally spilt down his cheeks. "It killed the guards, and then it broke into my room... I was afraid and-- and I hugged nana close. She told me everything would be all right. But it wasn't all right. The orc found us and he grabbed nana by the hair and pulled us out. I fell out of her lap but she didn't have time to pick me back up use use the orc whirled her back around and pulled out its blade, and... and he--" Legolas could no longer control his voice, and he turned his tear streaked face and buried it into his pillow as his body racked with sobs, choking on his own whimpers.

The dragon evidently sensed the mood, his head perked up and he made a low moaning sound before crawling up closer to the prince's head and began nuzzling him while making low rumbling noises that were oddly soothing. Legolas' sobbing gradually died down, and he was left laying on his side with ragged breathing. Raising his head slightly, the young prince found himself staring into the large, apparently concerned orbs of the dragon and his lips quirked in an attempted smile. "Don't worry, gwador-nin, I'm all right." he sniffed, dragging his sleeve over his eyes before pulling Nuarhir over with one arm. He let out a raspy sigh. "I won't let anyone hurt you, I promise." Legolas leaned over, kissing the creature atop his scaly head before lowering it to the pillow. "go to sleep now." the prince murmured, as he slowly fell asleep, his previous weeping draining him of energy. Nuarhir honked quietly in response, his eyes slowly closing, and his breathing steadying.

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Nuarhir: literally it means master of flame, or 'Flame Master'
ada/adar: dad/father
nana/naneth: mommy/mother
penneth: young one
gwador-nin: my sworn brother

To Be Continued -->

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