Always the Guardian

DISCLAIMER: The characters in this fanfic are not mine. They belong to J.R.R. Tolkien, and were given film-life by Peter Jackson.
SUMMARY: Legolas is grieving and Haldir’s in a towel…pure PWP.
PAIRING: Legolas/Haldir
WARNINGS: Slash
AUTHOR’S NOTES: The idea for this fic came about after the discovery that Craig Parker (Haldir in the films) was in Shortland Street – and there are pics of him in nothing but a pink towel. Melissa (a friend of mine from a Harry Potter online RPG) then mentioned “Haldir in a towel” – and lo and behold, attack of the bunny! There is an honourable mention to the pink towel in the fic. The timescale is while the Fellowship is in Lothlorien (first film).
I don’t know if baths had been ‘invented’ during the LotR era, or if the plants/herbs/oils mentioned had been discovered and/or assigned the same properties they do today; however I have used this ‘modern’ knowledge anyway.
Also, thank you to Caz for beta reading this fic – you’re a star!

ALWAYS THE GUARDIAN

Haldir let out a contented sigh as he lowered his body into the bath. His day had not exactly been the best, and now he was just hoping for a chance to let go of all the negativity. Between the news of Mithrandir’s death and the arrival of that bloody dwarf, it was not going to be easy for the Guardian to relax. Still, the bath was going to be some help.

The elf laid his head back against the side of the bathtub, allowing the soothing infusion of herbs he had added to take over his senses. The combined scents of rosemary and lavender caused his mind to drift from reality and he could feel his focus fading. Perhaps he would get some rest after all…

BANG! BANG!

The Guardian’s head jerked up at the intrusion into his peace. He froze in place for a couple of moments, trying to work out what the sound was and where it was coming from.

BANG! BANG!

Haldir had to try hard to think through the pleasant clouding in his mind. Something was banging…if it were an attack of any sort then he would have known…so what could it be?

BANG! BANG!

Whatever it was, it was getting more persistent and more demanding. Finally, Haldir figured it out – someone was at the door to the small shelter he shared with his brothers. Well, someone else could answer it – he was getting back to his bath.

BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!

“Honestly, am I the only one around here capable of doing anything?” the elf called out, before remembering that both Rumil and Orophin were out on guard duty. Haldir sighed and leant his head back against the tub. Maybe whoever it was would give up soon and leave him alone.

BANG! BANG!

Apparently not. The Marchwarden forced himself to get out of the bath, silently cursing whomever it was that was disturbing him. He reached for his towel and wrapped it around his waist before moving towards the door.

*****

Legolas was beginning to give up hope. Perhaps Haldir had gone out on guard duty – but surely he would have known if that was the case. After all, the Mirkwood elf had already seen Rumil and Orophin, both of whom had said that Haldir was at home. But then why was he not answering the door?

Legolas lifted his hand to knock one final time when the door was pulled open. The Mirkwood elf looked up to see Haldir’s head poking out. The Guardian did not seem too happy about being disturbed. Even before being asked, Legolas blurted out, “I am sorry to disturb you, Haldir, but-”

“It’s okay, Legolas.” At the sight of the despondent prince, Haldir’s anger melted away. “Come in.”

The Marchwarden opened the door further to let the other elf in. Legolas faltered as he spotted the towel, but took his courage in hand and walked in. Haldir closed the door and turned to face him. “What can I do for you, my dear Legolas?”

Legolas opened his mouth to reply, but his breath caught in his throat. He had always thought Haldir attractive, but seeing him half-naked was almost too amazing. The arrogant, almost regal air surrounding the Guardian was still present, and was still convincing despite the fact that he was wearing just a towel. Of course, it helped that the forest green and dark red of the towel was a reflection of this majestic arrogance, but Legolas felt that Haldir would be able to carry off the look even if the towel was pink. Not that Haldir would ever own a pink towel, of course, but…

The corners of Haldir’s mouth twitched upwards as he noted the other elf’s silence. Resisting the urge to break into a full smile, the Guardian asked, “Was there something you wanted, Legolas, or have you just come here to look at me?”
“I…I…” Legolas trailed off, silently cursing himself for being so obvious. “I’m sorry Haldir. I just-”

“Mithrandir.” Haldir moved closer to the Mirkwood elf. “You do not have to hide it from me, Legolas. I know you grieve just as the others do.”

Legolas had to struggle to stop himself from either throwing himself at Haldir or breaking down completely. As the other elf drew close, the heady scent of the herbs caught Legolas’ attention. Swallowing back emotion, he nodded. “I fear the others think me cold-hearted for not grieving as openly as they do. They do not understand…”

“Of course they don’t.” Keeping one hand on the towel, Haldir reached to brush some hair from Legolas’ face. “Or else you would not be here.”

Legolas leant into the Marchwarden’s touch, both comforted and aroused by it. He felt a gentle arm wrap around his waist asdir dir guided him to a seat. Through the thin material of his clothing, Legolas could feel the dampness of the other elf’s skin. Turning to look at him, the Mirkwood elf whispered, “I’m sorry. I am interrupting something.”

“Nothing important.” Haldir allowed Legolas to sit down on the two-seater in the room before sitting next to him. As the Lothlorien elf arranged the towel so that he did not have to hold it, Legolas continued to marvel at him. Beads of water trailed down Haldir’s skin, taunting Legolas as they flowed down perfect arms and chest to disappear at the waist. The Mirkwood elf tried to force his attraction away, feeling guilty for letting in any emotion other than grief. That was what he was here for – to grieve with one who understood him.

Haldir watched the outward betrayal of inner struggle within the other elf. Reaching for Legolas’ hand, he asked, “What troubles you so, dear Legolas?”

Legolas leant his head on Haldir’s shoulder, knowing that his dear friend would not mind. “I wish I knew, Haldir. I fear it is something more than grief – of the Fellowship I should have least reason to miss him.”

“Why? Because we elves are not prone to emotion?” Haldir twined his fingers between Legolas’, wanting to comfort the other elf as much as possible. “Legolas, you have as much right to grieve Mithrandir as any of them – you are as much a part of this Fellowship as them.”

Faint tears began to prick at Legolas’ eyes. In a voice thick with hidden emotion, he said, “You are right, Haldir. And I do miss Mithrandir, really I do. I just feel I miss something else as well.”

“Other elves?” Haldir did not dare go so far as to suggest that it might be him that the other elf missed, but he was aware that being the only one of his kind must be a strain on the prince. “After all, when you divide up the Fellowship, who are you left with but a dwarf? The hobbits and the men do not understand, for they have companions of their kind.”

Legolas opened his mouth to reply, but released only a strangled sob as tears began to flow down his face. Haldir’s words had echoed his very own thoughts, and it was a relief to find someone with whom he could be open.

Haldir hugged the other elf to him, amazing even himself with his show of unbidden affection. He felt Legolas’ arms wrap around his back, a clear sign that the Fellowship’s elf was clinging to this comfort. Haldir gently stroked the other elf’s hair, feeling his heart wrench with every sob that escaped from the prince. He had not realised until now just how much he cared for Legolas, but suddenly the Mirkwood elf was the most important thing to him.

As his sobs subsided, Legolas pulled back to look into Haldir’s eyes. “Thank you, Haldir.”

“What for?”

“For just letting me grieve. I have never known you to be patient, but I am grateful for it now.”

“You do not have to thank me, Legolas. We have been friends for long enough; it’s what I’m here for.” Haldir smiled reassuringly at the other elf. “Do not feel you are inconveniencing me without cause, my dear. I am glad that you have chosen to come to me.”

“Had I the option, I would always come to you.” Legolas shifted so that he could rest his head on Haldir’s chest. “They would not believe that you could be so understanding, you know? I can tell, most think you arrogant and I imagine more than one of them would think you heartless.”

“Again, dear Legolas, it is because they do not understand. Just because we are more guarded in our emotions, they mistake us for indifferent.”

Following both instinct and attraction, Haldir gently pressed his lips to the top of Legolas’ head. The other elf whimpered, almost silently, wanting the Marchwarden to hold him like that forever. He inhaled another waft of rosemary and lavender, and smiled. “You have been experimenting again, have you not?”

“I have. I find this particular blend helps me to relax.” Haldir pulled back a little in order to look at Legolas. “Would you like me to prepare a bath for you? It might help.”

Legolas shook his head. “It’s working perfectly fine from here, thank you, Haldir.”

Haldir smiled a little. “You do realise that your clothes are now damp?”

“I do, and I don’t care.” Legolas nuzzled the other elf’s neck a little. Despite his grief, it was becoming impossible to disguise his lust. “What is a little damp clothing between friends?”

Haldir gulped as the prince’s words went straight to his groin. He had to fight to keep control of himself, reasoning that it would be wrong to pounce on Legolas while he was so upset. Far better would be to let Legolas decide when he was ready. Realising that silence would not be the best response, the Guardian asked, “Did you mean what you said before? About how you would always come to me?”

“Always,” Legolas confirmed. “I could be in a party with eight other elves and still wish for you.”

Haldir sighed. “Dear Legolas…”

Legolas gently reached to cup the other elf’s face with his hand. “What about you, Haldir? Would you have sought me out the way I sought you tonight?”

“I would.” Haldir’s voice was little more than a whisper as he confessed, “You are the only one I would let down my guard for.”

Legolas couldn’t help but smile at this. Haldir was infamously distant even with his own kind, and would not make such a statement unless he meant it. “Then I am truly honoured, my beloved.”

Haldir tensed slightly at Legolas’ mode of address. He soon relaxed as the other elf gently caressed his cheek and said, “Do not be afraid, Haldir, for I speak in earnest. I feel…” Legolas trailed off, suddenly feeling a little shy. He knew that he would be risking a lot if he confessed his true feelings, and the last thing he wanted was to drive Haldir away.

Haldir gently lifted the prince’s face so that he could meet his gaze. “What is it that you feel, Legolas?” A faint hope sparked within the Marchwarden, but he refused to allow himself to trust it.

Legolas silently cursed himself for slipping up with the term of endearment. He looked away, still a little hesitant about the confession he wanted to make. “I would like nothing more than to tell you, Haldir, but I am afraid of how you will react.”

“Do you not trust me, Legolas?”

“More than anyone else, Haldir. But I do not wish to lose your friendship.”

Haldir gently stroked the Mirkwood elf’s hair. “You know you can tell me anything, Legolas.”

Legolas nodded. He forced himself to meet Haldir’s gaze. Comforted by the reassurance in the Guardian’s eyes, he whispered, “I think…I think I am in love with you, Haldir.”

Haldir drew in a ragged breath as the othlf’slf’s confession sank in. He saw the fearful look on Legolas’ face and knew he had to share his own feelings. “Dear Legolas, I have felt the same. But never did I expect my feelings to be reciprocated. And tonight, of all nights.”

“I know I should be grieving.” Legolas lazily traced a finger down Haldir’s jaw, both amazed by and grateful for the Marchwarden’s response. “And I was. But with you, I feel as though none of it matters. With you, I could never feel sad for long.”

Haldir fell silent, uncertain of how he should reply. Legolas allowed himself to smile as he leant forward and briefly kissed the Guardian. Resting his forehead against Haldir’s, he murmured, “I apologise if this has shocked you.”

“It has. But in a good way.” Haldir brushed his lips past Legolas’, for once not feeling the need to assert his dominance straight away. The Mirkwood elf grabbed his chance by locking their lips together, wrapping his arms around Haldir to pull him closer. The Lothlorien elf hungrily returned the kiss, feeling any remaining reserve melt away. He gasped a little as Legolas began to tease him, flicking his tongue in and out of Haldir’s mouth. One of the prince’s hands wound itself through Haldir’s hair, brushing carelessly past one of his pointed ears. Haldir squirmed at the touch, impressed with Legolas’ apparent talent. No one else would have been able to take control of the Guardian, but the Mirkwood elf was different.


Legolas grinned as he finally pulled out of the kiss. It appeared that Haldir had been left a little breathless, and the Mirkwood elf loved the fact that the Guardian was seemingly willing to be submissive to him. Brushing his lips past Haldir’s ear, the prince whispered, “Are you alright, Haldir, mellon nin?”

Haldir nodded. “I am better than alright. But my brothers are due back soon, and-”

“Ssh.” Legolas silenced his bed wid with a kiss. “Do not worry, my love. I was about to suggest that you prepare that bath for me.” He grazed Haldir’s jaw with his lips before adding, “I’m sure you’ll come up with something suitable.”

Haldir nodded, reluctantly pulling away from the other elf. He stood up as though in a daze, barely noticing as the towel fell away from his waist. Legolas watched the Guardian leave the room, drinking in the full glory of his body. He was truly amazed at the elegance in Haldir’s every move – even as a member of the most graceful race, he stood out. A grin crept onto the Mirkwood elf’s face as he thought about what was soon to happen. Another pang of guilt tried to break through, but Legolas ignored it – negativity seemed almost impossible while he was with Haldir.

*****

As the patchouli and sandalwood infusion was preparing, Haldir allowed himself a moment to think. What spell was it that caused him to yield so willingly to Legolas? What was it that allowed the Mirkwood prince to discover the most hidden side to the Lothlorien? Haldir sighed as he moved to add the infusion to the bath water. As hard as it was to accept, there was only one possible theory for this madness – love. Only love could cause Haldir to let down his guard so completely.

“Is everything ready?”

Haldir spun to face the door, and almost collapsed. Legolas was leaning in the doorway, the green and red towel wrapped around him. The Mirkwood elf smiled. “Do you like it, Haldir? Of course, it suits you better but then what wouldn’t?”

Haldir had to grip the side of the bath to stop himself from falling as Legolas carelessly loosened his grip on the towel. It snaked its way to the floor, leaving both elves in an equal state of undress. Legolas bit his lip as he approached the other elf. His approach had seemed a good idea in theory, but now he was a little scared that the Guardian would be affronted by his apparent quick recovery from grief.
ldirldir moved to meet the other elf, sensing his fear. “Legolas, mellon nin. If this is how you will be comforted then who am I to object?”

“I do not wish to merely use you. I did not come here with the intention of this happening.”

“I know.” Haldir gently kissed the prince. “But do you wish to fight it now that it is happening?”

“Not for all of Middle Earth.” Legolas had to fight back a groan as Haldir’s lips travelled to his neck. The new combination of scents was starting to hit him, coaxing passion to the forefront os mos motives. As Haldir pulled back, the Mirkwood elf reached for his hand. “Please, Haldir. Let me show you that I am genuine.”

“I know you are genuine, Legolas.” Haldir took the offered hand and led the other elf to the tub. “You would not have got this far if you were not.”

Legolas allowed himself to relax at this. He knew that Haldir meant what he said – the Guardian always did – and realised just how lucky he was. The Mirkwood elf was about to reply when Haldir covered his lips with his own. The forcefulness of the Guardian was something unknown to Legolas – it was not quite the usual, dominating force, more the sort of force that was driven by desire. Legolas parted his lips to grant Haldir’s tongue entrance to his mouth, groaning slightly as the other elf pulled him as close as possible. It was now clear that Haldir had not been submissive through necessity – Legolas felt that at that moment, the Marchwarden could have asked anything of him. And yet he was not taking advantage, merely trying to share the whole experience with the prince.

Haldir eventually pulled back to draw breath. Legolas locked eyes with him. “That was amazing, Haldir.”
e hae haven’t even started yet.” Even as he spoke, Haldir backed away to step into the bath. He reached out a hand for Legolas. “I promise you, this is something you will cherish no matter where on Middle Earth you are.”

Legolas allowed Haldir to guide him into the tub. “I truly believe that, Haldir.” The prince moved to kneel, but Haldir stopped him. Legolas shot him a questioning look, but the Marchwarden merely started to kiss his jaw and neck. Nimble hands travelled down Legolas’ chest and the Mirkwood elf felt himself tingle with anticipation.

Haldir brushed a hand past the other elf’s inner thigh, determined to keep the pace mote. te. He knew that much as he would like to, he could not draw this out all night. At the same time, it would not do to move too fast – they both needed time to adjust.
Legolas whimpered slightly at Haldir’s touch, welcoming the return of the Guardian’s full dominance. He realised that Haldir was the type of elf who could even use submission as a form of dominance, luring others in before going for the kill. The Mirkwood elf squirmed as Haldir’s lips travelled down to his chest, teasing his nipples with his tongue. He could feel his lover smile against his skin, clearly taking delight in Legolas’ response to him. A gasp escaped the prince’s lips as he felt the other elf’s hand brush past his elfhood, sending a shot of pleasure coursing through his body. The intoxicating aromas of the bath only heightened the experience, sending sparks with every touch the Marchwarden made. Legolas reached out to grab something, anything that would stop him from slipping as Haldir began to stroke him. The Guardian’s other hand moved to guide him to the wooden towel rail situated next to the bath. Legolas placed both hands behind him, gripping to the rail as hard as he could.

Haldir pulled back a little to lock eyes with the other elf. He did not speak, but allowed the fire in his eyes to communicate to Legolas. Hungry desire burned brightly in the prince’s eyes, a mirror of Haldir’s own passion. Grinning slightly, Haldir carefully lowered himself down so that he was kneeling in the bath. The water that reached just above their knees standing now submerged the Lothlorien elf up to his shoulders. Legolas glanced down, curious as to what Haldir was doing, and was half-surprised, half-glad to realise why the other elf had knelt. The Mirkwood elf gasped a fel felt the Marchwarden’s lips close around his shaft, gripping even more tightly to the rail behind him.

Haldir ran his tongue along Legolas’ length, taking him as deeply as possible into his mouth. He felt thrills shoot through him at every moan and whimper the other elf made, feeling a little smug that he was the cause of these sounds. He was so caught up in passion that the hard marble of the bathtub barely troubled him.

Legolas arched his back as he felt Haldir’s surprisingly talented tongue flick across the tip of his increasing erection. The worries of the Fellowship seemed so far away – indeed, the entire rest of Middle Earth seemed to fall away from him until he was aware only of Haldir and his touch. He continued to groan as the Guardian pleasured him; not quite able to believe that Haldir was as talented as the Mirkwood elf had hoped.

Haldir slowly released the other elf from his mouth and looked up. Legolas was still arched back, opening himself fully to Haldir’s attentions. The Marchwarden smiled a little as he asked, “Do you wish to take me?”

Legolas was silent for a couple of moments as he tried to take in what had just been asked. Was the dominant Haldir really offering the ultimate in submission? The Mirkwood elf was tempted to accept this offer, fearing that it was his only chance. However, another part of him just wanted to yield completely to the Marchwarden. Deep down, Legolas felt that he needed Haldir to dominate him.

Haldir raised a questioning eyebrow. “Does my offer surprise you?”

“A little,” Legolas confessed. “And I am tempted to accept. But…I cannot.”
The Mirkwood elf carefully knelt doo tho that he could lock eyes with the Lothlorien. “I am not truly the dominant type. I willingly give myself to you, and ask only that you be gentle with me.”

Haldir reached up to stroke Legolas’ cheek, trailing water across the dry skin. “As if I would be anything but gentle with you, my prince.” Inwardly, the Guardian was thrilled at the prince’s brazen submission. He paused for a moment, considerinw bew best to continue. Legolas watched the Marchwarden, silently urging him to continue, to do anything but remain still. Eventually Haldir spoke, although it was almost to himself. “We would have to get rid of some of the water…but it should be possible…”

“Haldir?” Legolas could not bear the tension any longer.

Haldir placed a soft kiss on the other elf’s lips. “I am sorry, Legolas. I did not wish to worry you.”

“I trust you fully, Haldir. I am just curious to know what you are thinking.”

The corners of Haldir’s mouth twitched upwards at this. “Then you shall find out, Legolas dear.”

The Lothlorien elf reached for the small lever that allowed water to drain from the bathtub. Once half of the water had drained away, Haldir stemmed the flow and turned back to face Legolas. “You are sure that you want me to do this?”

Legolas nodded eagerly. He wasn’t exactly sure what Haldir had planned, but he craved any contact with the Marchwarden. Everything about Haldir’s touch made the world seem perfect, as though nothing bad could ever happen as long as the Guardian was there with him.

Haldir smiled as he gently kissed Legolas. The Lothlorien had dreamt of taking Legolas for longer than he could remember, and now the dream was finally coming true. Pulling back, he softly commanded, “Turn around, Legolas dear. Around on all fours.”

Legolas instantly complied. The solidness of the marble underneath his knees was a little uncomfortable, but the prince knew that Haldir would not cause him unnecessary suffering. He felt the Guardian’s hand on his back gently caressing him, trying to reassure him.

Haldir moved to get hold of the special oil he had placed within reach when he heen een preparing this bath. He dipped a finger into the small jar then used his other hand to gently part Legolas’ buttocks. He gently circled the other elf’s opening with the lubricated finger, knowing that the prince would most likely take quite a bit of preparing.

Legolas squirmed a little as he felt the strange, cool substance on Haldir’s finger - a finger that was slowly working its wnto nto the Mirkwood elf’s body. Legolas forced himself not to cry out at the discomfort it was causing, knowing that Haldir was doing his best not to cause any pain.

Haldir leant forward over Legolas, continuing his gentle stretching of the other elf. “Are you alright, Legolas dear?”

Legolas bit his lip, uncertain of how he should reply. The discomfort was beginning to fade a little now, as he became accustomed to the finger inside of him. Haldir smiled reassuringly, placing a kiss on the Mirkwood elf’s shoulder before saying, “I know this must be a little strange for you. I do not want to hurt you, my dear prince, but you are so tight.”

“You do not hurt me,” Legolas replied. “It is not entirely comfortable, but I know you would never hurt me.”

“Of course I would not.”dir dir added just a little more force as he worked his finger inside of Legolas. He knew that the other elf’s discomfort would fade as his body adjusted, and so saw no harm in speeding things up just a little.

Legolas docilely allowed Haldir to continue his preparation. He was beginning to get used to the single finger inside of him, feeling less uncomfortable by the minute. Suddenly, he felt a jolt of pleasure course through him as Haldir’s finger brushed past a hidden gland. He let out a strangled moan, knowing that whatever the Guardian was doing was definitely of the good.

Haldir felt himself growing hard as he continued to finger-fuck the other elf. Each sound that escaped the prince’s lips pushed the Guardian further into his own arousal. He gently pulled his finger out of Legolas’ body, feeling that the other elf weadyeady for a second. As he reached to cover his fingers in more lubricant, he ran his other hand along Legolas’ back. The prince had started to whimper now that Haldir’s finger had left him, seemingly needing the close contact with his beloved. The Marchwarden began to tease Legolas’ entrance once more, this time using two fingers.

Legolas squirmed again at the addition of an extra finger. He had only just been adjusting to one, and the second was almost too much. Still, he refused to complain, knowing that Haldir was trying not to move too quickly.

Haldir again moved so that he was leaning over Legolas. “Tell me if you want me to stop.”

Legolas shook his head. Through the discomfort, the prince could feel the beginnings of pleasure. He unwittingly bucked against Haldiringeingers as they brushed past the same hidden gland. He could feel himself brush past the other elf’s stiffening erection as he moved, eliciting a brief moan from the Guardian. His own erection was beginning to ache almost painfully, distracting him slightly from the difortfort of Haldir’s fingers inside of him.

Haldir began to build up a rhythentlently sliding his fingers in and out of Legolas, trying his hardest to make the experience enjoyable for both of them. He almost grinned as Legolas continued to push back against him, glad that the prince was beginning to relax a little.

Legolas was now beginning to fully appreciate Haldir’s attentions, and found himself craving more for all that the Marchwarden gave. He drew in ragged breaths, tryto hto hold out for as long as possible.

Haldir leant forward so that his breath could be felt on the other elf’s skin. “Do you think you are ready, my dear Legolas?”

Legolas gulped at this. “I do not know, Haldir. I am still a little scared…”

“You need not fear me, Legolas.” Haldir gently sucked the other elf’s ear before continuing, “I have not done anything against you thus far, have I?”

“No.” Legolas’ voice cracked a little as he felt careless fingers stroke his prostate again.

“Do you trust me?” Haldir knew that he would not hold out for much longer, as he continued to get aroused by Legolas’ response to him.

“Always.” There had been so much more that the Mirkwood elf had wanted to say, but the single word was all he could vocalise.

“You trust that I would not hurt you?” Haldir knew that Legolas was close to yielding, but wanted to wait and see if the prince would admit this.

“I do.” Legolas shifted, finding his excitement getting almost a little too painful. “Please, do not torment me like this, Haldir.”

“I do not wish to torment. But I need your word before I can continue.”

“I am ready, Haldir.” Deep down, Legolas knew it was true. Everything that the Marchwarden had done so far that evening placed the prince’s needs first, and he had no reason to suspect that he would stop now.

Haldir smiled and gently kissed Legolas’ neck. “You are so trusting, my dear Legolas. I just hope I can prove that your trust in me is well-placed.”

“I already know it to be so.” Legolas moved to lock lips with the other elf. Haldir’s hair had begun to dry, and now clumped together in platinum tendrils. Even then, the Marchwarden was breathtakingly stunning.

Haldir could feel the passion in Legolas’ kiss and knew it was time. He gently removed his fingers Leg Legolas’ body, all the while keeping his lips on the prince’s.
Legolas groaned as Haldir finally pulled away from him. He twisted his head around to try and get a better view and saw the Guardian reach into a jar. The Mirkwood elf’s jaw dropped as he saw the Lothlorien beginning to pleasure himself. A strange substance glistened on Haldir’s fingers, transferring itself to his shaft as he stroked. Legolas feared that he would come just from watching as the Guardian began to moan, his eyes only half focusing. If the prince had not thought Haldir perfect before, he could not deny it now.

Haldir smiled lazily at the stunned look on Legolas’ face. He briefly considered explaining, but knew that the prince would learn soon enough. Once he felt that he was suitably prepared, the Guardian shifted back into a half-sitting position, making sure that he was partially supported by the edge of the bath. In little more than a murmur, he commanded, “Move back a little, Legolas.”

The prince instantly complied, feeling an amazing buzz of arousal and anticipation. Haldir wrapped his arms around the other elf’s waist and gently guided him so that Legolas was almost sat on top of him. “Grab hold of the sides, my dear. They will support you better.”

Legolas placed a hand on either edge of the bathtub, knowing better than to question the other elf. He caught a faint whisper of, “My dear, sweet prince,” as Haldir reached to sweep long golden hair away from the Mirkwood elf’s neck.

Haldir placed a gentle kiss on the nape of Legolas neck as he raised his hips. Legolas gasped as he felt the Marchwarden’s erection rest at the edge of his opening. One of Haldir’s hands left Legolas’ waist in order to part his buttocks before the Guardian teased his way in. The prince let out something between a groan and a croak as Haldir entered him, both loving and discomforted by what was happening.

As he eased his way deeper, Haldir moved his free hand to Legolas’ groin. He loosely gripped the prince’s shaft, trying to balance out any discomfort with further pleasure. The Guardian marvelled at the tightness of the other elf, glad that his generosity with the oil all but cancelled out any friction.

Hand and hips fell into a synchronised rhythm as Haldir drove himself and his lover to the edge. Legolas’ cries filled the room as the double sources of pleasure hit him, all intensified by the lingering scents of patchouli and sandalwood. The Guardian was a lot less vocal in his pleasure, but even he could not help but moan as he felt already-tight muscles clench around his length. The slow pace seemed to suit both elves equally – the two bodies moved as one, both driven further by the relaxed eroticism.

Legolas felt the immense build-up of pressure as his elf-hood begged for release. He forced himself to hold out; wanting to share the moment of climax with the one he had worshipped from afar for so long. He felt the Guardian’s grip on his waist tighten as irrepressible groans sounded from beneath him. The sounds were music to Les’ es’ ears as he wondered if there was any possible way in which Haldir was not perfect.

Haldir continued to thrust up into Legolas, speeding up as much as he dared. He was pleased to note that the other elf instantly adapted to the change in pace, amazed at how compatible they were with each other. He felt the uncontrolled spasm of muscle as Legolas was pushed to the start of his climax. A choked cry of “Haldir!” preceded a wordless cs ths the Mirkwood elf finally gave in to orgasm. This cry acted as a cue for Haldir, but as he was about to release himself, he heard the door to the shelter slam shut. He immediately covered Legolas’ mouth with his hand, not wishing to be discovered. Legolas continued to ride out his orgasm, too far gone to stop. Haldir trembled with longing for his own release but could not risk letting his guard down.

From the front room of the residence, several voices could be heard.

“We told you, we have not seen him since he left us at our posts.”

“Rumil, please! You have to know something.”

Haldir felt a now spent Legolas tense at the sound of Aragorn’s voice. The Guardian surreptitiously reached for a second lever on the tub, allowing fresh water to flow in and drown out the conversation. Very quietly, so that only his lover would hear, he muttered, “Let me finish, dear Legolas, and then you can return to them.”

Legolas shook his head. As Haldir removed the hand covering his mouth, the prince replied, “I wish to stay with you, at least for this night.”

“Then you may stay.” Haldir reached to stop the renewed flow of water into the bath before wrapping his arms around Legolas again. The prince strained to turn and look at the Guardian. “Please Haldir…I want you to keep me quiet.”

Haldir grinned at this. “Very well, my dear Legolas.”

As the Guardian moved to replace his hand, Legolas took one of the fingers into his mouth. As Haldir began to gently thrust again, the Mirkwood elf sucked on the digit, trying to be as sensual as possible. Haldir groaned as quietly as he could as the action pushed him the small distance needed for climax. Legolas arched back as he felt the other elf’s seed spurt into him. Awkward as it was, he still managed to find Haldir’s lips, pressing his own to them in order to muffle the cries that the Guardian could not quite conceal.

As Haldir rode out the last of his orgasm, the two elves became aware of heavy footsteps just outside the room. Panic flashed in the Mirkwood elf’s eyes, but his Lothlorien companion just smiled reassuringly. “Lift yourself off of me, Legolas, and shift down so that your head rests on my chest.”

The confidence in the Marchwarden’s tone reassured Legolas enough for him to comply. He gasped as his body became submerged in water, realising that this would be sufficient camouflage. esteested his head on Haldir’s chest, smiling as the Marchwarden wrapped an arm around his exhausted body.

Haldir gently kissed Legolas’ forehead and whispered, “I shall explain this away easily.”

“Or else subdue them out of interest,” Legolas teased; fully aware of how scathing the other elf could be at times.

Haldir was about to respond when they heard a gruff voice snarl, “No doubt that snobbish elf put him up to this.”

The sharp intake of breath resonated from both within and outside of the bathroom. Legolas glanced up at Haldir. “He does not understand, Haldir. Remember, you told me yourself.”

Haldir couldn’t help but smile. “It is nice to know you place such faith in my advice, young prince.”

From outside, Aragorn’s voice spoke up, “It is no business of ours what Legolas chooses to get up to amongst his own kind.”

“It is when he walks off without telling anyone. Leaving those two daft Hobbits in charge of our safety, what was he thinking?!”

“Gimli.” From Aragorn’s tone, it was clear that he was beginning to wear down. “I would have thought you of all of us could understand what drove Legolas here.”

Haldir felt faint tears against his skin as Legolas began to slip back into guilt. “How could I have been so stupid?”

“Do not listen to the dwarf!” Harsh concern filled the Guardian’s voice. “You did what you felt best.”

Legolas looked up, eyes glistening. “Tonight should have been one of the worst nights of my eternal life. Instead, it became the best and now it has to end.”

“Not so, dear Legolas.” Haldir kissed the top of his lover’s head. “You said you wished to stay with me and stay with me you shall. The man and dwarf can leave without you.”

The Marchwarden pulled Legolas closer to him, silent reassurance of his feelings for the prince. Legolas was about to speak when they heard the door to the room open. Both elves looked up as Gimli stormed in yelling, “Unhand our e

Legolas opened his mouth to respond, but Haldir was quicker. “Excuse me? Your elf? I was not aware of the young Prince of Mirkwood becoming the Fellowship’s property.”

Gimli acted as though Haldir had never spoken. “Come Legolas, back to our camp. You had the others all worried sick – and on top of what happened to poor Gandalf. You think the Ring bearer needs any more anxiety?”

Legolas slowly sat up. Glancing at Haldir, who nodded slightly, he replied, “You may report to to those who have not accompanied you here that I am fine. Tonight I wish to stay with one of my own kind.”

Gimli was about to respond when he felt a hand on his shoulder. Aragorn cast a brief glance over the two elves then looked down at the dwarf. “We should get back, Gimli. We know that Legolas is alright here, and I am sure that Haldir will not allow anything to happen to him.”

Legolas snuggled a little closer to the Guardian, trying to prove to Gimli that the ranger was right. Grumbling slightly, the dwarf turned and stalked out. In Elvish, Aragorn said, “I shall come and find you when we are due to move on,” before following his companion out of the room.

Haldir gently nuzzled his beloved’s neck. “I wish you did not have to leave.”

Legolas sighed. “I have a duty to telloellowship, Haldir, just as you have a duty here. But I assure you; once this is over I shall return.”

“I don’t doubt that you will.” Haldir grazed Legolas’ ear with his lips. “And if you need me at any time, just send word and I shall find you.”

Legolas nodded. “I will, Haldir.”

Haldir shifted so that he could stand. “Well, Legolas my dear, we should get out before we ruin our skin.”

Legolas stood up with the Marchwarden, disentangling himself as he did so. “Do you have…?”

“I shall fetch a spare in a moment.” Haldir climbed out of the bath, letting water drip onto the wooden floor. He walked over to where Legolas had dropped the towel, feeling no need to rush in front of the elf he had just made love to. He felt the other elf’s eyes watching him as he bent down and wrapped the towel around his waist. Turning to lock eyes with Legolas, the Marchwarden said, “I’ll be back shortly.”

Haldir turned back and crept out of the bathroom. He could hear Rumil and Orophin talking in the lounge area of their small apartment. “Do you think they really were?”

“It wouldn’t surprise me, Rumil. After all, how long has our dear brother been lusting after him?”

A smirk crept onto Haldir’s face as he walked into the room, heading for the stairs that led up to the sleeping area. Showing no signs of having heard his brothers, he asked, “Quiet night?”

Rumil nodded. “I suspect you saw more action tonight than we did.”

“He was looking for you, you know.” Orophin blushed slightly at his outburst.

Haldir smiled. “I know he was, dear brother.”

Rumil threw the balled-up towel he was holding at his kinsman. “I figured you might need this.”

Haldir deftly caught the towel with one hand. He shot an icy glare at his brother when he realised the colour. “This is one of yours, Rumil.”

“I did not know if you had any spare,” the other elf countered.

Haldir sighed. “Thank you, Rumil. I take it you are not going to subject poor Legolas to this same treatment?”

“Of course not,” Orophin swiftly replied.

“We are not stupid,” Rumil joined in. “We know how vicious you can get!”

Resisting the urge to get drawn in to argument, Haldir turned and walked back to the bathroom. Legolas was huddled in a corner of the room, shivering slightly. He looked up as the Marchwarden returned and his face lit up. “Haldir!”

The Marchwarden smiled. “Surely you have not missed mebadlbadly in that short time?”

Legolas did not reply. As he stood up, he caught sight of the spare towel. “You continue to surprise me, Haldir.”

“It is Rumil’s. He has lent it to me.”

Legolas grinned as his earlier observations came back to mind. “Could I ask you a favour, Haldir my love? There is something I wish to see.”

Haldir raised a questioning eyebrow. “And what would that be, Legolas dear?”

“I have this theory…I am curious to see if your almost regal air is as effective when you have naught but a pink towel.”

“What on Middle Earth sparked that though?”

“You, when you answered the door.” Legolas spoke plainly, hoping that it would persuade the other elf to play along.

Haldir sighed. “Very well, my dear. Since you asked so nicely…” He carefully unwrapped the green towel from around him and threw it towards Legolas, before reluctantly replacing it with the pink. Legolas smiled as he spotted the disgruntled look in Haldir’s eyes. Despite this, he realised that he had been right – the Guardian really could carry off the look in just about anything.

Haldir stepped a little closer to Legolas, fully aware of the prince’s approval. “Come, my dear. We should rest.”

Legolas smiled as he wrapped the green towel around him then took Haldir’s hand. The Mirkwood elf did not know what the future journey would bring, but he did know that there would always be a beacon of hope for him. As he was led out of the room, he said, “I am glad I came to you tonight. It comforts me to know that you would always protect me.”

Haldir stopped and turned to face Legolas. “Of course I would, my dear prince. I will always be your Guardian.”