Live for the Moment

Title: Live for the Moment
Author: Tuxedo Elf
Rating: R
Pairing: Rúmil/Théodred
Beta: Eni
Summary: Sent to Rohan to buy horses for Lórien, Rúmil meets the Prince of the realm.
Disclaimer: Not mine, it all belongs to Tolkien
Notes: For Larian. Why? Why not?! *Grins*
Other Notes: AU. Also, I know nothing about horses - please forgive me any glaring errors!

*********************

He had been so excited about coming here. It was something he had wanted to do for centuries and to finally be given this chance had been his greatest thrill. The dawn after receiving his orders he’d set out, leaving the borders swiftly, with warnings and advice from his brothers still ringing in his ears.

When getting his instructions he had paid as much attention as he had been able to, though his excitement had dulled much of it. Besides, he was an experienced warrior, he was sure nothing would go wrong. Even if he ran into trouble, his horse could easily outrun them.

Then of course, it had all gone wrong.

They had ridden right into a herd of wild horses and his previously faithful mount had been beside herself, especially when the stallion approached her. He had tried to calm her, but she danced and pranced and then threw him without a second thought and galloped off into the distance, the stallion crying his victory.

So now he was trudging along the dusty plains on foot, dirty, weary and cursing the unfaithful beast. He hoped he didn’t run into trouble - he was too tired to even think of fighting. Mind you, he thought, he probably smelt so bad by now that any Orcs would think he was one of them.

Rohan, he decided, was definitely not a place to go walking in. He could completely understand now why the people of this land depended so on their horses. Ah well, at least he would not have to walk home. That was why he was here of course, to procure half a dozen new horses for Lothlórien.

It was with a great sense of relief that he finally crossed the borders into the town and laid eyes on several small houses, with people milling about all around them.

They looked strangely at him as he passed, but he had been told to expect this – Elves did not often come here, so he was a novelty to them. If he was embarrassed, it was because of the state he was in - he had heard what these people said of Elves: that they were always clean, graceful and beautiful. Right now he did not feel any of those and he hated it.

At last he came to the stone steps of the palace and climbed them swiftly, only to be stopped by the guards at the top.

“Who are you and what is your business in Rohan?” one said, his voice not unfriendly but firm nonetheless.

“I am Rúmil, from Lothlórien,” he replied. “I have been sent by my Lord Celeborn to acquire horses on his behalf.”

It was tradition in Rohan that only members of the Royal House could sell horses to outsiders and so Rúmil could not simply purchase the animals from one of the street vendors. He would have to see the King.

“Very well,” said the guard, “But you must leave your weapons here.”

Rúmil nodded. It was a reasonable request; he would have demanded the same had the positions been reversed. He removed his bow, quiver and knives, along with his two boot-knives. There was one other weapon, a long dagger strapped to his wrist, but that he kept, for a good warrior never completely disarmed himself.

When the guards were satisfied, the door opened and he was admitted into the Great Hall. He took a moment to look around him, at the high, beamed roof, the dark wood embossed with gold engravings and richly coloured banners that hung from the walls. It was so different from his homeland that he was hard-pressed to remember his duty and concentrate on the King.

“Greetings, Your Majesty, I am Rúmil of Lothlórien,” he said, hoping his distraction didn’t show in his voice.

“Welcome, Rúmil,” Théoden responded. “It honours me that Lord Celeborn once again seeks to buy Rohirric steeds for his own.” He smiled slightly, watching as the Elf’s eyes roamed over the room. He suspected that while the Elf was probably many times his senior, he was still quite young amongst his people. “However, you must be tired. Rest first and we will talk later.”

Looking around Théoden smiled, seeing a small lump in one of the floor-length banners.
“Éowyn, will you show our guest to his rooms, please?”

The banner rustled and a small girl, maybe eight years of age appeared from behind it, wearing a green dress and with long dark-blonde hair trailing down her back. She was barefoot and approached Rúmil with a mixture of curiosity and fear.

“Yes Uncle,” she said and looked up at Rúmil, who towered above her. “Will you come with me, Lord Elf?”

Rúmil suppressed a chuckle as he nodded. “I would be delighted. And please, call me Rúmil.”

She nodded, repeating his name, and he smiled in approval. Then she led them out of the room, along a wide corridor with windows looking out over the fields and plains beyond. As they rounded a corner, the view changed slightly to a large fenced off area used for the training of horses. There was only one animal in there at present, a stallion he noticed, along with a dark-haired young Man who was trying, with limited success, to get a bridle onto it.

The Man did not give up though, nor did he get annoyed with the animal. As Rúmil watched he just kept trying, until sweat was pouring from him and he looked ready to drop.

“That’s Théodred, he’s my cousin,” Éowyn supplied before Rúmil could ask. “Uncle said if he tamed that horse he could have him.”

Rúmil raised an eyebrow; from the way the horse was acting it was no small task that the young Man had undertaken. Maybe once he had rested he could help. But for the moment Éowyn was getting restless and he thought it best to let her guide him to his room before she became completely distracted. Casting one last look at the yard, he walked on.

******************

Rúmil found the room he had been assigned comfortable, though very different from what he was used to. The bed, however, was delightful and after lying on it for just a few minutes he wondered if his talan at home could support one. It was with much contentment that he drifted into reverie for a few hours.

When he woke the sun was just setting. As no one had called to wake him, he assumed that he had not missed dinner and so made himself ready. Not knowing how to summon someone to bring hot water he washed in cold, but it was clear and refreshing, so he did not mind. Once clean he put on a fresh set of clothes and rebraided his hair before sitting down to wait.

He did not wait long. Only a few minutes had passed when there was a knock on the door. Rising, he opened it – to reveal the one he had seen in the yard earlier. Théodred - the King’s son and heir.

Though Rúmil had seen very few Men, he knew enough to know that this one was very attractive amongst his people. Indeed, even Rúmil himself, though used to Elven beauty, found the young Man most compelling.

His hair was fascinating, deep brown at the top but fading into dark blond, the same as Éowyn’s, at the bottom. It hung over his shoulders and framed his angular, square set face. His features were youthful and his mouth curved in a smile, but it was his eyes that really drew Rúmil’s attention. They were unremarkable in colour, dark brown, but they were deep and held an emotion that Rúmil could not define. But there was also kindness there and the Elf felt at ease, even as he wondered about the mystery of the young Prince.

“Prince Théodred,” he greeted, placing his hand on his heart. “I am honoured.”

The Man’s eyes opened wide in surprise. “You know who I am?” he asked, clearly wondering what powers the Elf had.

Rúmil realised this and laughed, nodding slightly. “Aye, I know, but the only magic I used was the girl child who showed me here!”

“Éowyn,” Théodred smiled, relaxing as he realised that the Elf was not trying to enchant him. “I should have known! I hope she did not trouble you, she means well, but is easily distracted!”

“Nay, she was the perfect host and brought me here – though I fear I have forgotten the way already!” Rúmil chuckled.

“That is why I have come,” Théodred replied. “Please, follow me to the great hall – our dinner awaits us.”

Rúmil grinned. “That is the best news I have heard all day!” Smiling warmly at Théodred, he stepped out of the room, not noticing the blush that rose on the young Prince’s cheeks as he squeezed his shoulder in a warrior’s grip as he passed.

*****************

Dinner was an enjoyable affair with many varied dishes, allowing Rúmil to get a good idea of Rohirric fare. He found there was little he did not find palatable and wondered if it would be polite to take some samples home when he returned.

However he drank little of the ale, not really liking the taste of it and also unsure of how it would affect him. He was not prepared to risk becoming drunk and embarrassing his people.

Théodred noticed this and felt sorry for the Elf, sipping water with his meal. He stopped a passing servant and spoke quietly to her, gesturing to Rúmil when the Elf was not looking.

A few moments later Rúmil blinked in surprise when a pitcher of fresh apple juice was set down beside him. He had not been enjoying the water, but had not thought anyone had noticed. His eyes met Théodred’s and the Prince smiled. Rúmil smiled back, pleased at the unexpected act of consideration. Aye, there was definitely far more to this young Man than first appeared. He hoped he’d have a chance to find out more.

******************

Luck seemed to be with him the next day when, after having breakfast brought to his rooms, Théodred arrived to show him to the fields. He would, he said, be Rúmil’s guide as he selected the animals he thought Lord Celeborn would like best. Rúmil was pleased – the selection process would take several days and that would give him plenty of time to get to know his host better.

Unbeknownst to Rúmil, Théodred was also pleased to have this chance. He had never before been so close to an Elf and found himself intrigued by the slender, beautiful Galadhel.

As they walked to the fields, Théodred was unable to resist asking Rúmil about life in Lothlórien. He knew little of Elves and was deeply curious. Rúmil was happy to oblige, speaking of his brothers, his friends, his duties and his Lord and Lady. He explained about everyday life and what he liked to do on his days off.

The more he spoke, the more Théodred realised that though there were a great many differences between then, there were also many similarities. Rúmil’s everyday life was much like his own and the stories he told of his brothers’ antics were not unlike the things he got up to with Éomer and Éowyn. He liked those thoughts; that even though they were of different races, they could still communicate and get along.

Théodred also discovered that Rúmil had a wicked sense of humour and more than once they had to stop as laughter prevented him from going any further. He would be sad when the Elf went home he knew… he could not remember when he had connected with another so easily.

They came to the field and Rúmil’s eyes lit up at the sight of so many beautiful animals. The field was vast and at first glance he thought there were at least fifty horses within it. To choose just six would be no easy task.

“Incredible,” he murmured as he stared at them. “There are so many of them and each one is a beauty.”

“These are the best animals Rohan has to offer,” Théodred explained. “If you would let me, I would assist you in your selection.”

“I would like that,” Rúmil replied. “You know them better than I and I would not wish to disappoint my Lord!”

Théodred smiled and opened the gate. “I am not you will not… but please, follow me.” Together they walked into the vast field.

********************

By the end of the day, Rúmil had a reasonably good idea of which animals would be returning to Lórien with him. Over the next few days he would ride them and spend time with them, to assure that his selections were the right ones. He was pleased to be so far along already though – it would not have been possible without Théodred’s extensive knowledge of every horse they had seen. It was obvious how much the Prince loved the animals.

As they returned to the palace they passed the smaller yard in which Rúmil had first seen Théodred. The stallion was still there; calm now, but not to be underestimated.

“You have trouble with this one,” Rúmil stated as they came closer. “I saw you fighting with him on the first day I arrived.”

“Aye,” Théodred nodded. “He has been wild ever since we brought him in from the open plains… I am not used to failure but try as I might, I cannot tame him.”

Rúmil eyed the horse, looking at how it moved, and how agitated it seemed. He remembered how none of Théodred’s actions had been able to calm it. The Man had been patient to a fault, but as a mortal he did not have the same bond with nature that Elves did.

“Would you like me to try?” Rúmil offered, hoping Théodred would not be offended. “My people oft have a stronger bond with animals and I may be able to reach him.”

While Théodred did not relish the idea of another succeeding where he had failed, he had been fighting with the horse for weeks now with almost no change. Soon, his father would demand that he give up and turn his attentions to other endeavours and he would lose the beautiful stallion.

“Aye, if you think you can do some good, you are welcome to try.”

Rúmil smiled, glad that the Prince’s pride had not stood in his way. He opened the gate and entered slowly, making his way to the large horse at the far end. Théodred stayed outside the gate but kept his eyes locked on the Elf and the horse.

As Rúmil approached, the horse watched, tracking his every movement. The Elf appeared fearless, though his eyes were constantly watching for hooves that might fly at him suddenly.

He got within two steps of the stallion before it lunged at him, teeth bared. Across the field Théodred gasped, but Rúmil was swift and stepped away before he was injured. This seemed to enrage the animal and he lashed out with his hooves. Again Rúmil dodged, ignoring the horrified sounds coming from Théodred, who by now was sure he was going to end up explaining to his father how their guest got killed. Instead he moved around the animal, his eyes on its back. That was where he wanted to be, he just had to wait for the right moment.

For several minutes they carried on in that way, eyeing each other grimly, the horse lashing out at every opportunity. Then as he tried to bite Rúmil again the Elf leapt, twisting away from the teeth, landing on the stallion’s back and taking a firm hold of his mane. He knew that the animal would try to throw him.

Indeed the stallion made a valiant effort to do so, but Rúmil held on, pressing his face into the horse’s neck, whispering in his own tongue as he tried to calm him, telling him not to fear, that these were good people, that he was safe.

Eventually his efforts paid off and the stallion stopped his thrashing, instead standing still, with the Elf on his back still whispering soothing words.

Théodred stared in shock; he had never before seen the like. He was sure that had he tried that he would have been killed, yet the speed and fluidity with which Rúmil moved made it look almost effortless.

When the stallion had calmed enough for Rúmil to safely move, he rode over to the gate where Théodred was waiting. “He was afraid,” he said, smiling gently. “You took him from his family and he feared for his fate. Let him go back in with the others and you will have no more problems, I think.”

“Incredible,” Théodred whispered, “such a difference in so short a time. Will he accept me now?”

Rúmil smiled and patted the stallion’s rump. “Come ride behind me for a moment, then I think he will.”

Stepping up, Théodred mounted carefully, but could not reach the reins. “Put your arms around my waist,” Rúmil said, turning his head round and smiling. Théodred hesitated just for a moment and then did so, his muscular arms easily encircling the Elf’s slender waist, glad that Rúmil was facing the front again and couldn’t see his blush.

Once he was settled, Rúmil whispered something to the stallion and they began to move slowly round the field. Three times they circled it, the stallion moving smoothly beneath them until Rúmil called a halt.

“That is enough,” he said. “Release him now to the others and all will be well.” Stunned, Théodred could only nod, dismounting and waiting until Rúmil was down too, before leading the animal the short distance to the other field. As soon as the gate was opened the stallion was surrounded by the mares and foals and Théodred knew that Rúmil was right.

He returned swiftly to the Elf, his eyes shining in amazement and delight. “I can never thank you enough!” he said, smiling widely. “Never has an animal given me as much trouble as that one!”

“Think nothing of it,” Rúmil laughed. “I was glad to assist!”

Théodred smiled, taking in the beauty of his Elven companion and feeling more drawn to him with every moment they were together. Most of the Men he knew would have bragged loudly about besting the Prince of Rohan in horse training, but not Rúmil. He cared not for attention, only for those around him. Maybe Rúmil had not meant to, but Théodred found that the Elf had indeed enchanted him.

To the Prince, Rúmil was a contradiction. His features were youthful, as was his manner, even when he was in a formal situation. But his eyes… as Rúmil had been drawn to Théodred’s eyes, so was he drawn to Rúmil’s. They held a wisdom that belied his appearance. In his eyes could be seen the experiences and memories of many centuries. What must it be like, he wondered, to be immortal?

Without thinking, he reached out to touch the smooth skin of Rúmil’s cheek. It was so soft… like a child’s skin, unmarred by life.

A moment later he realised what he was doing and gasped, pulling his hand away and starting to apologise. Yet Rúmil caught his hand and without say a word, placed it back on his cheek. Then he stepped forward, bringing himself closer to the Man.

Théodred’s heart soared as Rúmil stepped closer, showing that he too felt the pull between them. Leaning towards his companion, he pressed his lips to the Elf’s in a gentle kiss. Rúmil responded, deepening the kiss and pulling Théodred into his arms. It felt good – right – to be with him this way.

Relaxing completely in Rúmil’s arms, Théodred melted against the slender body of the Elf. As they kissed he moved his hands and wrapped his arms around Rúmil, holding him tightly.

The first deep kiss gave way to another, Théodred exploring Rúmil’s mouth as the Elf yielded to him. When he finally pulled away, he could not keep the wonder from his voice. “You are like no one I have ever known. Something about you calls to me…”

“I feel it also,” Rúmil admitted. “A pull I can not explain…” He stared again into the Prince’s deep eyes. “Your eyes draw me in.”

Théodred blushed at this and Rúmil smiled, kissing him again. His fingers played idly with strands of the Man’s hair as he became more comfortable with their close embrace.

“I never thought an Elf could be so approachable,” Théodred said quietly. “I have met only two other Elves in my life, both some years ago and neither were as open as you.”

Rúmil laughed lightly at the statement. “Some of my people are more reserved when dealing with Men. Yet once you get to know us we are very – friendly – indeed.” There was unmistakable innuendo in his words and Théodred chuckled.

“Of that I have no doubt,” he replied, nibbling lightly on Rúmil’s ear and causing the Elf to moan. “You like that…”

“I do,” Rúmil whispered, his eyes glittering. Slowly he slid his hand down to cup Théodred’s buttock and squeezed it. “As you like that, I imagine.”

“Ai, yes,” Théodred gasped, jumping slightly at the touch. The Elf was rapidly undoing him and with every moment that passed he wanted him more.
“It grows late,” he said softly. “We should return to the palace. Will you join me in my rooms?”

Rúmil nodded without hesitation and Théodred smiled, taking his hand and leading him to a back door into the palace and then through a maze of corridors and passages. Rúmil was glad; back doors were more discreet. It would not do to have rumours spread about he and the Prince.

It was not far to Théodred’s rooms and upon their arrival the Prince wasted no time in getting them both inside. Both of their hearts were racing now, eager for more, and eager to find out the mysteries of the other.

Their bodies entwined they stood together on the thick rug, kissing and feeling the other, becoming used to the taste and feel so different from what they were both accustomed to. Then Rúmil stepped back, his blue eyes darker than usual as his nimble fingers went to work on Théodred’s tunic. It was off within moments and Rúmil’s gaze travelled over Théodred’s bare chest.

He liked what he saw – a solid, well-built body that spoke of years of training. He let his hands explore the sun-darkened skin, enjoying the feel of the soft hairs on Théodred’s torso before sliding his hands inside the Prince’s leggings and pushing them down. Kneeling as he removed the garments, Rúmil placed light kisses down Théodred’s body, though teasingly avoiding his aching length, until the Man was squirming with desire.

As soon as he was safely out of both boots and leggings, the now nude Prince pulled Rúmil to his feet and kissed him desperately, while at the same time tugging at the Elf’s clothes. He growled in frustration at the fiddly fastenings, causing Rúmil to laugh.

“Let me,” he said, stepping back again and removing his clothes swiftly. As nice as it was to be undressed, further hesitation would likely drive them both insane.

The sight of Rúmil’s naked body caused Théodred’s breath to hitch and he groaned. If there was just one rumour about Elves that was true, it must be that they were indeed the most beautiful, perfect creatures on Arda.

He could not help but touch, exploring every inch of the smooth, pale body with his hands and tongue, delighting in the feel of the smooth, supple skin.

Rúmil gasped as Théodred touched him, teasing him in return, discovering his sensitive spots with uncanny ease, making his blood quicken and his lust increase.

“Enough,” he gasped, “or we will both spend too soon.” Reaching out, he took Théodred’s hand, gently pulling him over to the large bed then pushing him down on to the fur coverings and lying atop him.

It was with something akin to shock that Théodred realised that Rúmil was taking charge of their joining. While he had submitted before, it was highly unusual for him and for a moment he was nervous. Yet he had no need to be, for Rúmil saw the moment of hesitation and kissed him tenderly.

“I will not hurt you,” he murmured, looking into the deep eyes of his partner. “Do not be afraid.”

To his relief, Théodred relaxed and smiled up at him. “I trust you, Rúmil… I am ready.” As he spoke he parted his legs, inviting the Elf wordlessly to take what he desired. “There is oil in the drawer,” he whispered, sinking back into the pillows, “though it is… probably near the back by now…” He blushed a little at the admission.

Rúmil wasted no time and rummaged in the drawer, quickly finding the glass bottle and flipping it open. The scent of the oil that filled the room was not one he knew, but it was pleasant and the oil was cool to the touch.

Drizzling some over his fingers, Rúmil put the bottle aside for a moment and approached Théodred again. “Roll over,” he said softly, “It will be more comfortable.”

Théodred did so, raising himself up onto his knees and looking over his shoulder as Rúmil came up behind him. “Relax,” the Elf whispered as he carefully brought his fingers to the entrance of Théodred’s body, to gently prepare him.

It was hard not to tense, but the Prince forced himself to relax, as Rúmil’s fingers slowly entered his body, stretching the tight passage. It was not long before it began to feel good and he moaned in his pleasure, pressing back towards Rúmil.

Chuckling, Rúmil soon had Théodred ready for him, removing his fingers and slicking oil over his arousal, prepared to enter him. Placing his hands on his lover’s hips, he kissed his back and positioned himself at Théodred’s entrance.

Yet when Rúmil’s arousal touched his backside, Théodred knew something was wrong. A split second later he identified the problem. “Wait!” he cried out, hoping that Rúmil was not too deeply engulfed by his passion to hear him.

To his utter relief, Rúmil stopped and spoke with a voice that held only concern.

“What is wrong? Am I hurting you?” he said, stroking Théodred’s back reassuringly.

“Nay, but…” He paused, not wishing to sound childish. “I wish… to see your face.”

Rúmil couldn’t help but let out a sigh of relief; to stop now would have been difficult. Still, he was worried.

“It will not be as comfortable,” he told him softly. “I have no wish to cause you discomfort.”

Théodred turned, coming to face Rúmil and shook his head. “I care not,” he said. “I need to see your face. Please…” He looked almost desperately at the Elf, needing this, even though he did not know why. On the rare occasions he had submitted in the past, lack of eye contact had never bothered him.

The look in the Prince’s eyes was so sincere that even though he feared hurting him, Rúmil could not deny Théodred’s request. He could never bring himself to go against his partner’s wishes.

“Very well,” he murmured, pushing the Prince down onto his back. “Lie there and trust me.”

Slicking more oil onto his length, Rúmil carefully raised Théodred’s legs and set them on his shoulders. Leaning forward, he gently kissed the young Man before pushing slowly and carefully into his body, never taking his eyes off Théodred’s.

Théodred gasped as he was entered, as Rúmil had said, it was more uncomfortable this way. But seeing the Elf’s eyes provided him with a sense of peace that he couldn’t quite explain, that made the slight pain as he was breached inconsequential. Nor did it last, as the Elf buried himself inside of him the pain faded and soon turned to pleasure, as Rúmil’s arousal grazed his sweet spot.

“Are you well?” Rúmil murmured, his eyes dark as he looked at his lover.

“Aye,” Théodred gasped, staring up at him. “Please, move now…”

Rúmil smiled, he had been waiting to hear those words. “As you wish,” he replied, matching action to words and beginning to thrust slowly, their eyes still locked.

As Rúmil moved, Théodred’s world narrowed to nothing more than the feeling of Rúmil within him and the look in the Elf’s dark blue eyes. He breathed deeply and let out a low cry as his Elven lover again touched the point deep within him that caused him the greatest pleasure. Eyes wide, he arched up, pushing towards Rúmil, control slipping as the feelings continued to grow until they almost overwhelmed him.

In all his life, Rúmil had never felt so utterly engulfed by a partner. His world spun as he lost himself in the depths of the Prince’s body and eyes. Such eyes… still he wondered at the mystery of them, even as the heat of desire ran through him in the midst of their joining.

“Théodred,” he whispered, leaning forward to kiss the Man passionately before increasing his speed again and sending them both to dizzying heights of bliss. His hands rested on Théodred’s back, steadying them both as he moved, the sounds of their gasps and moans filling the room.

Neither would last long, Rúmil knew that. The passion was too intense, more than anything he had ever known. He felt like he was drowning, surrounded by the depth and mystery of the Rohirric Prince.

His breathing became harsh, as did Théodred’s. He felt the prince rest his hands on his shoulders and it made him thrust even harder. His climax built within him and his eyes went darker still. A moment later he screamed the Prince’s name, spilling within him as Théodred released between them.

Yet as they reached their peaks, something passed between them. Something indefinable that went beyond the physical, touching Rúmil’s very soul. He felt whatever it was settle within him, melding with his spirit.

Théodred felt it too, for he whimpered and began to tremble, until Rúmil pulled him into his arms, breaking the eye contact at last to hold him close.

Rúmil wondered at what had occurred; he instinctively knew that they had not accidentally bound, but he had never heard of such an event before. Carefully, he slipped from Théodred’s body, kissing him softly before pulling him down to lie next to him, one arm draped over the muscular chest.

Turning to face him, Théodred looked at the youthful face of the Elf, bringing one hand up to stroke his cheek. “Thank you,” he whispered. “That was… incredible.”

Smiling, Rúmil was about to answer, until he noticed something. Théodred’s eyes had changed. They were still brown, still beautiful, but he no longer sensed the mysterious depth that had been there before. Not in his eyes, anyway, though the emotion itself still existed… within him, Rúmil realised with a shock.

In that moment, he knew. Though he had never been very gifted with the art of foresight, he knew this like he knew himself.

Théodred’s fate was not a kind one. He would never be king, would never wed, never have heirs. Somehow the Prince’s heart knew this, even if his mind did not, and it grieved for totality of death without procreation. So it had sought to remedy the situation, finding salvation in the visiting Elf. During their coupling, part of Théodred’s spirit had left him, joining with Rúmil and ensuring that within the immortal being, part of him would live forever. Even in the distant future, when Rúmil at last met the one his heart was destined for, he would carry part of Théodred with him.

It was a lot to take in and something Rúmil had never expected, but he found that he did not mind. It saddened him to think of the life of this young Man being cut so cruelly short and he was glad that he could help preserve the Prince’s existence.

“Think nothing of it,” he said, capturing Théodred’s lips in a soft kiss. “It was wonderful for me also. I will never forget this, Théodred.” The Prince smiled and Rúmil pulled the blankets over them. “Rest now,” he said gently, holding the Man close. It was clear that their exertions, coming at the end of an already long day, had exhausted him.

Nodding sleepily, Théodred curled up in Rúmil’s arms. “You promise?” he asked, even as his eyes closed. “You will not forget me?”

Rúmil pressed a kiss to Théodred’s hair even as sleep called to him. “Never. You will be a part of me for all eternity.”

The words were the last ones needed to soothe Théodred’s troubled heart and as dreams finally claimed him, he smiled.

THE END


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