The Jewel of Mirkwood

Chapter 85

“Legolas this is Amour and Valendil” Legolas watched in fascination as the two strangers stepped forward as Glorfindel’s introduction. Elrohir and Legolas had arrived back at the house just in time for dinner and had been surprised to find that Elrond had guests. The man and the elf were apparently rangers and had stopped in Imladris for a few days in order to rest before continuing on to Gondor.

Nosily Legolas had hidden behind the curtains in the public bain oin order to get a look at the two strangers as they bathed before the formal dinner. There was no doubting by their physical appearance that both strangers were rangers of the wild. Legolas had seen many of them during his time spent in Mirkwood’s tavern. Amour, the man was tall and well built, his shoulder length hair a fiery red colour that fell in unkempt curls around his face. Unlike his elvan companion Valendil, the man had dark green eyes almost forest like in their appearance, which held an untold wealth of knowledge behind them. The elf was just as mysterious. Legolas had never seen another elf with short hair before and it had come as a shock to see the elf still healthy. He knew that an elf’s hair was sacred and that most elves who had had their hair forcefully removed often faded with shame and humiliation. The elves that had returned from the borders after the attack from Echthelion had gone into seclusion until their hair had grown back and it was only the love of their families that kept them in middle earth. Yet Valendil showed no signs of fading and looked stronger than most of the elvan warriors in Imladris, he seemed almost proud of his short black hair.

Their clothes were pretty much standard worn and tattered but in their own way protecting their wearers from the elements. Again Legolas was surprised at the collection of weaponry the pair carried with them, such a mixture of different races arms than ever seen on one person. Legolas had hung around as long as he dared before disappea sil silently off back to his own chambers to refor for dinner himself. He had been intent on hearing the stories the two strangers had to tell and was almost brimming with delight as Glorfindel finally introduced them as they were waiting around in Elrond’s library for dinner to be served.

“Prince Legolas of Mirkwood, it is a pleasure to finally meet you at last.” The fiery haired man, named Amour bowed politely to Legolas before taking up the young prince’s hand and gracing it a s a soft kiss. “Your reputation as one of beauty among your own people does your true magnificent little justice.” Legolas blushed profusely and lowered his gaze from the expressive green eyes that met his own.

“Thank-you.” Legolas did not know how to reply and merely smiled coyly as the ranger smiled and took a step backwards again, to allow his companion to meet with Legolas.

“While this may be a first for my friend, I believe that we have met before prince Legolas?” Legolas frowned a little confused as the elf stepped forward and bowed respectfully to the young prince. The entire crowd gathered in the study stopped their conversations and looked expectantly at where Legolas was standing dumbstruck in front of the ranger. Legolas felt Glorfindel turn to look at him questioningly. Intently Legolas stared at the elf stood before him trying to remember if or when he had ever seen the very distinct face before. The blue eyes of the elf seemed familiar somehow but then Legolas had met many elves with blue eyes and could be any one at all. After a few silent moments of pensive scrutiny of the stranger’s face Legolas shook his head sadly.

“Nay, I am sorry I do not remember your face. Perhaps you have me mixed up with someone else.” Legolas glanced hopefully up at Glorfindel who had now turned his attention to Valendil who had aangeange smile on his face as he stared at Legolas. Legolas felt the other elf’s stare acutely and although it wasn’t malicious in anyway was a little confronting to have someone so blatantly staring at him.

“No I believe I am right Legolas but perhaps you were too you to remember and your tutor would have better recollection.” Legolas turned around a little and watched as Filgree rose from his seat beside Lindar to approach Valendil and him.

“I confess your face is familiar Valendil but as Legolas has pointed out I do not recall you at all.” Legolas watched as Valendil chuckled and shook his head in amusement of something before boldly reaching forward and brushing a stray braid from Legolas’ face and back behind his ear. Legolas heard Glorfindel grunt his disapproval at the intimate touch of his lover but the seneschal restrained any comment as Valendil smiled admiringly upon Legolas. Legolas could not help but blush and swallowed heavily trying to rack his brain to remember when he had met the elf in front of him.

“Perhaps you would remember me better by my birth name. Latinel…” Before Valendil could continue Legolas jumped quickly in instantly remembering the name from his childhood.

“My fathers messenger.” Legolas smiled proudly at his memory as Valendil nodded, pleased that he had been remembered by the prince. There were a few confused faces looking on around the room but Legolas and Filgree were now enlightened to the elf before them.

“Aye you do remember me then little one. I believe you spent many a night hiding in the shadows listening to my tales at the tavern when I’d returned from duty did you not?” Legolas flushed a hot pink colour and chewed lip nervously having been discovered in his forbidden activities as a child. It seemed now that his nightly escapades had been known by more people than just Filgree. “Oh come now Legolas half of Mirkwood knew you were scampering about the country side, to and from the taverns like a seasoned drunk. You may have been watching us in secret but many an eye was watching you too.” Legolas couldn’t help but raise his gaze to meet Valendil’s again and he was surprised at how drawn to the beautiful blue eyes he was. Valendil seemed to hold him captive in his gaze much like he had done with his tales back when Legolas was but a child. The moment was gone however as Glorfindel cleared his throat loudly uncomfortable by the attention the ranger was paying his lover.

“My Lord dinner is served.” As if on cue a young kitchen hand entered the study and bowed low to Lord Elrond, who had been siting watching the exchange between the prince and Valendil with interest. Nodding his acceptance Elrond rose from his chair beside Erectors and welcomed everyone to follow him through into the dining hall. Legolas did not mistake the possessively jealous kiss that Glorfindel graced up his lips after the rest of the guests had followed Lord Elrond from the study leaving them the last to leave. Legolas did not say anything though and merely took Glorfindel’s arm as they walked silently into the dining hall.

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Like always Elrond had put on a beautiful meal for his guests and all were being treated to the beautiful melody of a lone harpist providing background music to the enjoyable dinner. Elrond as always was at the head of the table his two sons’ beside him on his right. To his leat Eat Erestor and Glorfindel and in turn was Legolas, Filgree and Lindar. Opposite them were Amour and Valendil and the rest of the table was made up of guard captains and some councillors. The evening had been pleasant, conversation passing between them all about borderuriturity and activities within other realms. Stories were thrown about willingly, some more entertaining than others but all very well received by the audience. Legolas had hard spoken at all during the meal too hungry to waste time adding his own conversn ton to the already rich topics around the table. The sensation in his stomach had returned at the mere sight of the food and feeling the need to calm himself, especially in front of the guests Legolas had begun to eat. Over the course of the meal Legolas’ attention had hardly strayed from Valendil so intent on hearing the other elves tales just as he had as a child. At some points Legolas had found Valendil staring at him blatantly his meal forgotten as he merely stared with an unreadable expression at the young prince. Legolas knew that Glorfindel had not missed the stares and as the dinner had worn on Glorfindel had become grumpier and grumpier.

It was as Legolas was reaching for yet another spoon full of the superb fruit pie that Glorfindel’s temper seemed to come to a head. While the conversation continued around the table Glorfindel reached out a hand and stopped Legolas from picking up the helping of pie, causing the younger elf to look questioningly up at him.

“Don’t you think you have had enough.” Legolas frowned in confusion as Glorfindel leaned close to him and whispered harshly into his ear so that no one else could hear it.

“I am hungry.” Legolas whispered innocently back as he shook Glorfindel’s hand from his own and ladled out another helping of pie much to Glorfindel’s disgust. Admittedly Legolas had never eaten so much in his life but the fluttering in his stomach had not abated and so he had continued to eat, all the things he seemed to crave.

“You have eaten nearly the entire pie Legolas. You are being greedy.” Glorfindel’s voice was a little louder this time and Legolas determinedly shoved a fork full of the pie into his mouth and chew purposefully. Both Elves did not notice their growing audience and it was only when Legolas spoke again that they realised how loud their argument had become.

“I am hungry.” Legolas’ indignant tone echoed around the now silent dinner table causing those that had not stopped their conversation previous to now turn their attention to the couple staring daggers at one another.

“Glorfindel please it is quite alright Legolas may eat as much as he wishes none of us seem to want anymore. And cook will be pleased to see it gone.” Glorfindel sat back from Legolas as Elrond’s calm voice address him from across the table having sensed the tension between his friend and his lover the moment they had sat down ae tae table. Legolas smiled thankfully at Elrond and reached over the table again to pick up the entire dish of fruit pie almost as if to spite Glorfindel in the gesture. All the elves at the table had finished eating accept for Legolas who was now merrily tucking his way through what remained of the fruit pie, his lips stained berry red by the blackberries the cook had used as garnish.

A chuckle from across the table made everyone turn their attention to the two guests. Valendis res reclining back in his chair swilling the remains of his glass of wine around in his hand as he stared amused at the young prince.

“You have quite an appetite Legolas, I did not expect one of Thranduil sons to eat so much, pray you do not venture to the life of a ranger for you would surely starve.” There was a unanimous round of laughter around the table at Valendil’s comment and Legolas had the good grace to blush as he finished off what remained of the pie and promptly wiped his mouth with a napkin. Legolas was still hungry but having sensed his lovers anger by his side decided not to push it further by reaching for something else from the table of food. There was one person that did not laugh at the table ver ver and that was Glorfindel, who merely glared daggers at Valendil over the rim of his own wine glass having witnessed another of the rangers’ blatant stares of his lover.

“Tell me Valendil what brought you into the life of a ranger, I thought Legolas mentioned you were Thranduil’s messenger?” Glorfindel’s voice cut through the laughter like ice and Legolas swallowed regrettably as Valendil looked casually over at the seneschal who had asked him the question. There was tension and everyone had felt it acutely when Valendil and Glorfindel’s gazes met across the table.

“I grew tired of being a pawn in Thranduil’s games. I saw no point behind the vicious messages he had me take to Lorien or to Gondor and even here when I was younger. I lost my father in the war Glorfindel and while I still grieve for him I do not place blame on anyone. It should not have happened as it did and Thranduil was a fool to continue a feud that is without foundation.” The entire table fell silent at Valendil’s bold declaration, none were willing to reply to it as Glorfindel nodded understandingly and sipped from his wine. “I found it was easier to live a life in exile than be forced to take sides in a feud I do not believe in.”

“You are brave then Valendil to stand up for what you believe in. Your cause and all those that follow you will always find a bed in Imladris.” Valendil inclined his head in thanks at Lord Elrond who had listened intently to the sincerity in the ranger’s voice.

“Amour what news of other realms do you and Valendil bring with you on this trip?” For the first time during the evening Elladan spoke up from his fathers side quietly addressing the man who had merely listened to his elvan friend amuse the company with his assorted stories. While the attention now turned to Amour the tension between Glorfindel and Valendil did not recede both elves staring each other down with contempt over their respective glasses of wine.

“Very little I am afraid Elladan. We journey to Gondor to help aid their plight against the ever-encroaching evil from Mordor. Orc’s raid their outer villages, pillaging what they can and burning what remains. Their forces are stretched and injured are forced to fight on without treatment, we hope to relieve some of the pressure in their fight against our common enemy.” Amour watched as many around the table nodded in agreement, but knowing well that the elves would never involve themselves with the men of Gondor of a second time. The conversation again seemed to turn to politics and the common enemy of Mordor and Legolas was relieved to see a little of the tension between Valendil and Glorfindel dissipating as each elf engaged in their own private conversation.

The conversation was moved slowly from the dinning hall back into the study to allow the servants to begin cleaning up at their leisure. It was only now as Legolas sat alone in one of the plump leather chairs by Elrond’s fire that the younger elf began to feel truly full of food. Thankfully the sensation in his stomach had lessoned somewhat and was now barely distinguishable from the overly full feeling he had in his gut. Legolas could hardly believe how much he had eaten and so openly. He hoped that no one would think anything of it although he had caught Elrohir looking at him several times during the meal with suspicion. Remarkably Legolas had still found his leggings loose and his robe free despite the fact he had expected his belly to fill to bursting point and his clothes to be uncomfortable in light of the meal he had just eaten. Still Legolas did not think anything of it and merely put it down to a lack of a good meal while he had ridden all day with Elrohir.

Legolas was too busy lazing in front of the fire to notice his approaching company before it was too late.

“Prince Legolas, would you do me the honour of walking with me into the gardens. I have a great desire for some fresh air but do not want to get lost by myself.” Valendil’s request was merely a whisper above the other conversations around the room and unlike the others was spoken in Sindarian a language native to Mirkwood and unfamiliar to most. Unfortunately Legolas knew thatrondrond, Glorfindel and Erestor all spoke it fluently and all said Lords’ instantly turned their attention towards him. Not knowing what to do Legolas glanced questioningly at Glorfindel who had moved from his conversation to go and stand by Lord Elrond both lords staring at him intently. Glorfindel’s expression was dark and brooding and Legolas swallowed hard as he glanced unsure up at Valendil. “Please Legolas, it is an innocent walk in the fresh air.” With another glance at his unhelpful lover Legolas nodded his acceptance. As Valendil had said, it was just an innocent walk and Glorfindel would have to get used to him having other friends.

With a smile Valendil offered his arm to Legolas who obligingly took it as he rose from the chair. Legolas was acutely aware of every pair of eyes now trained on him and Valendil as they both wandered quietly out of the study doors and out into the torch lit courtyard. Legolas did not dare look at Glorfindel as he left scared he would see something he did not want to. It was obvious that Glorfindel didn’t like Valendil but wanting to learn more about the elf from Mirkwood Legolas was not willing to say no to a walk.

”Have you been back to Mirkwood of late?” Once out in the garden Legolas let Valendil’s arm go and walked independently of the elder elf and a little in front. Above them the stars dotted the sky like fireflies and Legolas basked in their glow enjoying the fresh air and the freedom from peoples gazes. Still there was one gaze that he could not escape but it was not uncomfortable and Legolas merely accepted the elder’s admiration of him as he struck up a conversation, eager to hear news of his home.

“Aye we passed through there from the Misty Mountains. It is still beautiful.” Legolas smiled and closed his eyes as he came to a stop in particularly nice part of the garden.

“And what of the family? How do my father and brothers fare?” Legolas waited patiently for Valendil to speak, listening as the elder elf circled him a few moments before moving a little away to sit down on the stone bench near by.

“Your father is well. Gossip in the taverns speak of a blacksmith that has quite captured your fathers eye. It is said that the king takes extremely long walks with the young elf and both often return to the palace their clothes in disarray.” Legolas nodded quietly his face still tilted towards the stars as he took in the stories of his father’s new love affair. Legolas had not been stupid as a child and while he had not known os trs true parentage had always known his father had a taste for young men, some not older than himself.

“And my brothers?” Legolas questioned declining to make comment on the news about his father.

“They are well too. Your eldest brother Talion was married at the beginning oringring a lavish affair with illustrious guests so I hear. They are expecting their first child next winter but rumours say that she is already swelled with child and waddles like she is to give birth in the coming month.” Legolas chuckled at Valendil’s vivid imagery already picturing his family of whom he had missed so secretly since they had left Lorio abo abruptly after his coming of age. Involuntarily Legolas let his hand brush across his own stomach before quickly pulling it away. “Your younger brother Hale is hardly at home. They say he wanders as much as a ranger would do and has quite a reputation with the ladies in the villages he visits.” Legolas sighed heavily and lowered his head back down from the heavens to face the bearer of news. Valendil was reclining causally in the stone chair his legs apart so that his tunic barely concealed his sculptured thighs. Legolas could not help but stare into the sparkling blue eyes of the elf before him, remembering a time when he had sat enthralled with Valendil’s tales of debauchery and adventure. When Valendil had been exiled from Mirkwood, Legolas had been heartbroken but had held onto the small pieces of information he heard about the messenger from the other rangers in the tavern. Now however the elf was before him staring at him like he was the rarest gift in all of middle earth. “You have grown up Legolas. You were but a child last time I saw you.” Legolas lowered his gaze from Valendil’s as the elder elf stood from the bench and wandered quietly over to him.

“I have just reached my majority and yet have seen many things already that have made me wiser than my years.” Legolas’ whisper drifted away on the breeze as Valendil came to a stop in front of him, sose ose that Legolas could feel the rise andl ofl of the other elf’s chest on his own. Legolas’ eyes fluttered closed as Valendil reached up and brushed a singular braid back behind his pointed ear. Legolas had always considered Valendil to be a handsome elf and knew the messenger’s reputation among men men was well revered. Yet Legolas had been young then and did not know the worth of someone’s attractiveness and was too naive to think otherwise of rumours. Now however with the elf standing before him Legolas could truly appreciate the beauty in the elder elf and the proposition that was being so clearly laid at his feet. “What happened to your hair?” Legolas swallowed hard as he tried to put a little space between him and the elder elf by reaching up and brushing a finger through the elf’s short dark locks. Legolas had remembered an elf with long black hair that shone beautifully in the candlelight of the taverns, yet it had gone now and Legolas wanted to know why.

“I was caught by slave traders two years ago trying to steal food from their camp. It was a foolish plan but I was desperate to eat. They tied me up and cut off my hair before trying to sell me at a market in Rohan. Apparently elvan hair is much sought after by men and can fetch a high price for dignities that wish for long life and good health. It is used like a lucky charm, braided and hung above their beds.” Legolas shook his head in disgust remembering his own terrifying ordeal at the hands of Keeldon. At least Keeldon had not cut off his hair.

“And why did you not fade? I would be humiliated to have to suffered through the loss of my hair in such a manner.” Legolas stiffened as he felt Valendil reach up and run his hand boldly through Legolas hair admiring the braiding but not really understanding its meaning.

“I am not vain like some elves Legolas. Living alone in the wild you tend not to bother with your appearance. I am still the same elf I was with hair just a little wiser I suppose. Amour helped a lot as well. He helped me escape and I have been wandering with him ever since, we keep each other company. Besides all that I know I have a hundred years in which I can grow my hair back.” Legolas smiled warmly and nodded understandingly admiring the strength of character he saw reflected in Valendil’s eyes.

“You are brave Latinel you would have made a fine warrior.” Legolas watched as Valendil blushed a little hearing Legolas use his former name with such eloquence.

“As you have done Legolas.” This time it was Legolas who blushed as the elder elf cupped his cheek and drew his face up to meet his own, so that they were barely apart. Legolas could hardly breath the intoxicating scent of Mirkwood lingering on the elder’s hair and reminding him of home. “I often wondered Legolas why such a beautiful face as yours was never approached in the taverns. Your father was so revered that none dared touch you for fear of reprise. I confess I was tempted on more than one occasion to go to you, buy you a drink and keep you company but I never acted. You looked so lost sitting there watching the world go by, your innocence so plain for the world to see. A pretty flower amongst the weeds.” Legolas felt his body go limp as Valendil’s thumb brushed softlyinstinst his parched lips causing him to take a sharp intake of air at the touch. “I enjoyed telling tales when I knew you were listening, it almost gave them purpose. I have spent hours watching you when you didn’t know I was there, you are beautiful Legolas and your beauty has only increased with age.” Legolas knew what was coming but could not draw his eyes away from the other elves so lost in the blue depths of his memories. The first touch of Valendil’s lips against his own didn’t seem to register in Legolas clouded mind and it was only as he felt the elder elf’s tongue slip inside his mouth to caress his own that Legolas realised he was responding to the kiss.

“No.” Abruptly Legolas pulled away from Valendil and hastily took several steps backwards his mind racing as he breathlessly stared at the confused elf before him. Legolas didn’t really know what to do his heart racing and his mind a mess. He did not know what was happening to him and the doubt he had only just put to rest that very dad rad returned so quickly. He had kissed Valendil yet he was bound to Glorfindel. Questions swam through his mind, questions of what if. Self-doubt set in like stone and Legolas felt tears begin welling up in his eyes his breathing short.

“Legolas? Are you alright? What have I done to offend you?” Despite his misty gaze Legolas saw Valendil move towards him and quickly moved backwards only to trip over his robe and fall helplessly into the low bushes surrounding the little glade. Valendil moved quickly to help Legolas up but Legolas shook his head and pushed him away.

“No, please go away. I am bound to another.” Legolas watched fearfully through his tears, as Valendil stood up from him shocked to hear Legolas declaration. //Glorfindel!//” Distressed Legolas closed his eyes and called for his lover hoping against hope that the distance wasn’t so great as to not form a connection. Again Legolas called for his lover through their connection hardly hearing Valendil’s apology.

“I am sorry Legolas I did not know. Who………” Valendil was abruptly cut off and Legolas opened his eyes just enough to watch as Glorfindel struck the other elf hard across the face sending him sprawling to the floor.

“He is bound to me and you would do well to keep your hands to yourself ranger.” Legolas listened as Glorfindel spat nastily at Valendil who was currently being helped from the ground by Amour and Elrohir. Legolas shook uncontrollably as he felt Glorfindel kneel down beside him with Elrond who proceeded to check him for injuries. //Are you alright? // Legolas nodded silently in reply to Glorfindel’s concerned question as he was helped awkwardly from the bush.

//Please Glorfindel do not be angry he did not know and I should have realised what was happening.// Silently Legolas pleaded with his lover as Glorfindel wrapped his arms protectively around Legolas’ shaking form. Legolas felt ill and the sensation in his stomach had turned into summersaults and flips after the kiss with Valendil. Legolas hoped that Glorfindel’s temper had cooled since dinner and that he was capable of understanding considering the situation. It seemed Glorfindel had seen the situation happening long before Legolas had.

“I am sorry Lord Glorfindel I was not aware Legolas was bound to you. Had I known I would never have dreamed of……” Valendil’s voice trailed off as Glorfindel rose a hand to silence him.

“You would do well to listen to news better than you seem to at present Valendil.” Legolas felt his head spinning a little and leaned heavier against Glorfindel’s body feeling his mate instantly supporting him as he continued to speak to Valendil. “I will forgive you this mistake as a drunken folly but it will not happen again, less I skin you alive and leave your body in the woods for the wargs.” Legolas swallowed heavily hearing the seriousness of Glorfins tos tone but he was thankful of Glorfindel’s forgiveness. He liked Valendil and did not want to see the elder elf hurt for a simple mistake.

//Glorfindel I do not feel very well. I am going to be sick// The fluttering in Legolas stomach seemed to increase at that very moment and the prince forced back the wretch that threatened to fall from his mouth as he desperately spoke to his lover through their connection. Instantly Glorfindel spun around away from the gathered audience as Legolas sagged in his arms and fell to his knees in the grass, his stomach divulging its contents onto the grass. Never since it’s first appearance had Legolas felt so ill at the fluttering in his stomach and could not keep back the second lot of vial that rose in his throat. Sympathetically Glorfindel held back his hair as he watched his young lover weakly throw up again and again. Behind them Legolas heard Elrond and Erestor bustling the group back into the study quickly leaving them alone in the night air.

“This is all the food you ate at dinner Legolas, you were a glutton and now you are paying the price.” Legolas winced as he heard the tinge of r inr in his lover’s voice. Glorfindel was angry with him and Legolas regretted the whole evening. Inwardly Legolas knew that his sickness was not due to the amount he had eaten at dinner but for the sake of having Glorfindel think him still well enough to join the patrols he kept quiet about the fluttering in his stomach. Finally Legolas’ retching sded ded and he sagged weakly into Glorfindel’s arms. Slowly Glorfindel picked him up from the ground having wiped the prince’s mouth with the corner of his own robe. Legolas looked pale and tired and Glorfindel sighed as realised that he had probably upset Legolas just as much as Valendil had. //Come Legolas, let us get you to bed.// Legolas weakly nodded at Glorfindel’s voice in his head before closing his eyes and snuggling helplessly into his lovers arms. It had been a long day and Legolas would be happy to forget it in sleep.

TBC>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

(A/n) ALright that's all for tonight. I was going to post the next chapter but my computer's just shit itself and refuses to load it sooooooooo that's it. Cause I aint got the patients to fix it tongiht.
Anyway hopes you liked it all and I will be back sometime next week to continue it. Still loving all your reviews, they're what keep my going on nights like this.