~Part Eleven~

Boromir looked at Legolas in confusion. "I am not Prince Elessar," he said, wishing at the same time that he was.

Legolas' eyes flew to Boromir's in shock. "But… Who are you then?" he Prince asked.

"I am Boromir, son of Lord Denethor, and cousin to Prince Elessar. But surely you knew this. Aragorn must have told you."

"Why would Aragorn tell me that you were Prince Elessar's cousin?" Legolas asked, his confusion deepening.

He was not the only one. "Why would he not, we are after all to become related once you and Aragorn are wedded."

"But I'm not marrying Aragorn, I am betrothed to Prince… oh!" Realization finally dawned on Legolas, and his color heightened in embarrassment. "Aragorn is Prince Elessar?"

Boromir smiled, and Legolas noticed that it softened the man's features making him look less cold. "Indeed. I see that there has been some confusion. I must remember to take my cousin to task for not making things clearer." He laughed suddenly and Legolas was startled slightly by the unexpected sound. "You thought I was Prince Elessar."

Boromir chuckled to himself, as Legolas watched in bemusement, then his face seemed to sober. "I think my Prince, that is time we took you from here and delivered you safely back to your father. But first, I think we should remedy your state of undress, I would like to give your father less cause for concern."

Legolas nodded, and stiffly sat clutching Boromir's cloak to his naked form. "I think that my clothes are somewhere here. I am unsure as to their condition. Lord Gafen… he was not thoughtful in his haste to divest me of my clothing."

Boromir looked back to the tense figure of the elf. "T'will be alright. Ah here, this looks to be your tunic," Boromir said on a note of triumph as he spotted the soft blue material under a pile of what seemed to have been Gafen's own clothing. Boromir pulled out the lightweight, elven crafted fabric and inspected it. He noticed Legolas turn his head away from the body.

"Here," he said passing the tunic to Legolas, "It does not appear too badly torn. I shall see if I can find your breeches amongst this pile."

Boromir sifted through the pile until he saw what looked to part of the Prince's breeches, however they were under the corpse of the old lord. Boromir pushed the body aside with little care and found that the clothing was indeed the Prince's breeches. They had a small amount of blood on them but Boromir thought that they should still be wearable. He passed them to Legolas who looked grateful.

Boromir noticed that Legolas made no move to put on the clothes, or even to remove the cloak, instead he seemed to be sending nervous looks at Boromir, and with sudden comprehension Boromir turned his back on the Prince to allow him some privacy to dress. He heard the rustling of clothing behind him, and a few moments later a tap on his shoulder told him that the Prince had finished. He turned back to face the elf, taking in the weary and pale face before him.

"Come, let us reunite you with your loved ones," he said gently, opening the door and leading the way.

A fleeting touch halted Boromir for a moment, and he turned back to the elf in query.

"I think that I may have misjudged you previously," Legolas said softly.

Boromir nodded in acknowledgement of the proffered apology and left the room.

~~~~~~~~~~

Thranduil stood in the main cavern near the Daela's corpse. Celeborn, Elrond stood with him.

"This room is full of dark magic," he said frowning at the young girl's body, "I pray that Legolas was not subject to the same fate as this child."

"I do not think that to be the case," Celeborn said. "I fear that Legolas' captor's had a darker fate in mind for your son. Galadriel did not say much of the warnings she had received from her mirror but she left me with the impression that time was of the essence in order for us to save your son from a fate far worse than that of death."

"If he is here, Boromir will find him," Elrond said confidently.

"Indeed, I did not have to look very far," a voice said from the entrance.

Boromir strode into the main cavern and from behind him stepped Legolas. Thranduil's heart skipped a beat as he saw his son standing by the man, his face pale and strained, his clothes torn and bloodied. Thranduil despaired at the fragile appearance of his offspring, and without hesitation he moved to stand before his son.

Legolas was quickly gathered into a crushing embrace, and Thranduil noted the momentary tension, and his son's involuntary flinch, before the young prince allowed himself to relax in his father's arms.

Legolas turned his face into his father's shoulder, blocking out the gruesome sight of Daela's ravaged body, and allowed a few tears to escape.

"Shh, my child," Thranduil said softly so that only his son could hear. "All will be well now. You are safe."

Legolas remained as he was and listened with only half an ear as Boromir explained that he had found Lord Gafen and been forced to kill the older man. Thranduil noted that Boromir looked pointedly at Legolas before stating that he would explain further upon their return to the palace.

Sounds at the doorway startled the young prince, and Thranduil automatically ran his hand soothingly down his son's back until he felt Legolas relax once more.  Galadriel glided in, a weary look upon her face, followed by two other elves from Lothlorien.

"Were you successful my love?" Celeborn enquired.

Galadriel shook her head sadly, "He managed to escape us, although not without a great drain on his magical resources. Yet I fear we may not have seen the last of the dark sorcerer."

Legolas gasped as he realized who they were speaking of. Verius was still free. Thranduil threw a glare at the lady of the golden woods which she ignored as she gracefully walked towards Legolas.  She placed a gentle hand on his back noting the tension, and eased the slightest touch of her magic into him. A little more she dare not risk for he would surely detect it, yet she felt the benefits of her small touch as the young prince relaxed again.

"Thranduil, it is time we left, we can nothing more here. I will have Denethor send some men to make sure that all loose ends are tied up here. The most important thing now is seeing Legolas returned to Minas Tirith. Aragorn should have heard the news by now, and I fear his reaction may be somewhat violent if he is not assured of the Prince's safety." Elrond said with a wry smile.

Thranduil returned the smile and began to move towards the doorway gently maneuvering his son along with him.

Legolas' was astonished when he arrived outside and saw a number of giant eagles on every available perch.

"This is how you reached me so quickly?" he asked his father. "But how did you know where to find me?"

"That is thanks to both the lady Galadriel and Mithrandir."

"Mithrandir is here?" Thranduil noted the look of anticipation in his son's eyes and breathed a silent sigh of relief that Legolas appeared to be getting over his ordeal.

"Indeed, it was he who called the eagles to our aid. Without their assistance we should never have arrived in time to foil whatever plans Lord Gafen had made." Thranduil's arms tightened protectively around Legolas as he thought about what might have been. "Come now. You shall ride with me. Celdarion will have to ride with one of the Lórien elves."

"Celdarion? Then he is well. Forgive me for my selfishness father, I had forgotten to ask after Celdarion's well being. When I was taken I felt sure he had been killed."

The Mirkwood kind smiled. "Indeed he is very well, again thanks to the Lady Galadriel, she freed him from the dark magic that was restraining him."

"That is very good news, I must thank the lady myself."

"That you must, but you will do so later. She will forgive you I'm sure for wanting to bathe and rest awhile first."

"I am not tired," Legolas said, but his fatigue was clearly shown on his face and in the way he held himself.

"Of course you are not my son," Thranduil said with a smile. "You merely have small weights attached to your eyes that make them droop so."

Legolas graced his father with a small smile, and was then assisted onto the back of one of the great eagles, his father ascending behind him.

Thranduil spoke softly to their mount, and they were swiftly propelled by strong wings into the air. As the eagle circled to attain height, Thranduil looked down at the ground below. He saw the others making preparations to leave and follow them back to the palace, then he turned his attention back to his son to make sure the young prince was comfortable. He smiled gently as he noticed that Legolas had already drifted into the dreamscape.

~~~~~~~~~~

Legolas' vision shifted as he moved his consciousness from the dreamscape to the real world. He looked at his surroundings in surprise. He was in the rooms provided for him at the palace of Minas Tirith. How had he arrived here? Then memory returned and the young elf recalled the giant eagles summoned by Mithrandir that had carried himself and his father back to Minas Tirith. He remembered nothing of the journey and could only assume that he had fallen into dreams shortly after they had left Verius' lair.

Just thinking about the dark sorcerer caused shivers of apprehension to slide along Legolas' spine.

The elven Prince pushed thoughts of the sorcerer aside and instead refreshed himself with clean water from a basin that had been left in his chambers. He was just donning his overtunic when loud voices caught his attention.

"You cannot enter this chamber," Legolas recognized Celdarion's voice.

"This is my palace, I shall enter any place I please, now stand aside." Legolas smiled at the fury in that other familiar voice.

"I shall not, I have been given strict instructions by King Thranduil himself that no one save himself is to be allowed entry into Prince Legolas' chambers." Celdarion's voice had taken on that stubborn tone that Legolas' recalled well.

"And I am telling you that I will be allowed entry to visit with my betrothed, now move aside you mule headed elf."

Legolas detected the sounds of a scuffle and thought it best that he interrupted before Celdarion caused harm to the man demanding entry.

He moved silently to the door and opened it swiftly, to be greeted by the sight of Aragorn and Celdarion locked in a wrestling grip. Both looked up at the sudden interruption and Legolas was forced to hide a smile at the dismay on both faces.

"Might I ask why my rest is being disturbed so volubly?" he enquired silkily.

"My Prince!" "Legolas!" Two voices rang out simultaneously and the combatants turned and glared at each other. Legolas did not bother to hide his smile this time but instead held up a hand for silence when he saw that both would speak again.

"Celdarion I wish to see my father, is he in his sitting room?" the young Prince enquired.

"Yes my lord, he has been awaiting your presence," Celdarion said formally.

"That is good, I shall go to him now," Legolas moved away from his own chambers and towards his father’s room, noticing the look of triumph on Celdarion's face, and the glum expression on Aragorn's.

"Aragorn, you may accompany me," he added softly, and stifled a laugh at the turnabout in expressions.

Aragorn quickly caught up with the elven Prince taking Legolas' arm in a proprietary fashion. He noticed Legolas' flinch and the tense muscles beneath his hand and his mouth tightened in anger, but did not remove his grip, instead waiting for Legolas to relax somewhat.

Eventually Legolas turned to him and gave him a small smile. Aragorn returned the smile hopefully.

"When were you going to tell me that you are Prince Elessar?" 

~Part Twelve~

Aragorn halted in surprise. His hand, still gripping the elf's arm, forced Legolas to halt too.

Pain, guilt and a touch of confusion touched Aragorn's face as he looked at the Elven Prince. "You were not aware that I am Prince Elessar?" he asked carefully.

Legolas shook his head, "I was not. You introduced yourself to me only as Aragorn."

"I knew that you were unaware of my identity when first we met, but I felt sure that you had been informed afterwards, once the betrothal had been made." Legolas shook his head in the negative again. "Legolas, just who did you think you were marrying?"

Legolas blushed and his gaze dropped. "I had thought that it was Boromir. From things that had been said and from his seat next to Lord Denethor at the evening meals I had thought he was Prince Elessar."

Aragorn frowned, and his hand fell away from Legolas. The elf keenly felt the loss of its warmth.

"I see, I understand now why you kept trying to back away whenever I sought you out. Legolas do you want to marry Boromir? I can arrange for our engagement to be dissolved. There will be no bad feelings between our two kingdoms." Aragorn felt denial rage through his heart but forced himself to say the words anyway. He would not force his beloved into this marriage if his own feelings were not returned.

"Nay nay," Legolas said quickly. He blushed again but his eyes met Aragorn's with no fear. "I very much want for this marriage to take place. It is a good thing for both of our kingdoms… and I fear you already have my heart," he shyly.

Aragorn felt the sweet rush of relief, and he pulled Legolas closer to him. Legolas pushed back the initial feeling of discomfort at being held so close, and allowed the man to pull him into an embrace. His eyes closed of their own volition and Legolas waited for the man's lips to meet his own.

That first sweet touch, as Aragorn's firm yet gentle lips met his own caused Legolas to moan softly and open his mouth to allow further exploration. Aragorn wasted no time, and quickly broached the sweet interior of Legolas' mouth. He felt the shy touch of a tongue against his own and struggled briefly with his burning desire in order not to alarm the young elf with the strength of his passion. That would come later he assured himself. Instead he allowed his own tongue to gently dance around Legolas' teasing and stroking.

The need for air forced them to separate and Aragorn looked at the flushed and dazed expression of the Elven Prince with a twinge of pride. He had done that to the young elf. He alone. His hand sought Legolas' and he squeezed the slender digits.

"I feel it only fair that you have gifted me with your heart, for you took mine from the moment I first saw you." Aragorn declared. "I look forward now to our wedding night, where I shall make you my own."

Legolas forced a small laugh to hide his sudden tension. He did not yet want to think about the intimate act he would perform with Aragorn, not when it had so nearly been forced upon him by another man. Instead he turned and gestured to Aragorn to come with him as he once more made his way to his father's rooms.

~~~~~~~~~~

Thranduil turned away from the window as the door to his sitting room was opened and his son stepped inside. He was closely followed by Elessar, and Thranduil sent the man a sharp look, which the young man blithely ignored. The young Prince had been loitering all morning waiting for Legolas to arise and Thranduil had warned him not to disturb his son. He curbed his tongue though for he saw his son's hand in that of the man.

He moved forward to embrace Legolas. His arms wrapping themselves around his son's lean body. One hand stroking through the long golden hair that so resembled his own. He placed a gentle kiss on Legolas' forehead and sent a swift prayer of thanks to the Valar for returning his precious son to him. Legolas was the only living thing that remained of his late wife, and Thranduil would have worshipped his son for that alone. Yet throughout his entire life Legolas had been nothing but the brightest of beacons for his people. He was practically worshipped by some residents of Mirkwood, and had they not known the mortification that would be thrust upon the young Prince he would no doubt have been followed everyday, with flowers strewn across the very ground he walked on.

Yet Thranduil thought the devotion that he inspired in people made him no less a warrior. Legolas had been trained, from the moment he was old enough to handle a weapon, in the warrior ways, and although he may not have seen as many battles or skirmishes as some, he was still a fiercely competent warrior, deadly in hand to hand combat, and deadlier still with his bow and long knives.

He is the perfect blending of both mother and father, Thranduil thought fondly and released his son. He gestured for both Legolas and Elessar to be seated, and he himself took his usual chair by the window.

"Now Legolas, tell me why you are not still abed."

Legolas smiled in familiarity of this old subject. "Tell me father, have you ever been able to keep me to my bed for any length of time?"

"Indeed, that is true. I should warn you now Prince Elessar that you will have great difficulty in trying to keep my son in any one place for any length of time. When he was younger I had at times resorted to tying him to his bed to force him to rest and recover after being wounded. That of course lasted only until he had managed to free himself from the bindings."

Aragorn looked closely at his embarrassed intended, then turned back to the King. "Your Majesty please address me by my given name Aragorn. I find Elessar to be far too formal, and after all are we not to be family in just a few short days? I shall however take note of your lesson, and perhaps, should it become necessary I shall commission the dwarves to create the finest chains of mithril. For surely nothing less will restrain your son."

Aragorn and Thranduil shared a laugh ignoring the glowering look Legolas gave them both.

"Very well Legolas, since you have arisen, we shall all wait for Lord Elrond to call on us. He checked briefly last night for any sign of injury whilst you lay sleeping my son, but we all wish just to make sure that you are as well as you can be this morning." Thranduil said, his face taking on a serious expression.

Legolas frowned and looked discomfited. "Please father, do not fuss so. I am well. I suffered no wounds during my captivity."

"That may be so, yet I think we shall all feel much better for having that confirmed by Lord Elrond. He should arrive shortly. I told someone to fetch him the minute you had awoken."

The room fell silent then, both Aragorn and Thranduil shooting concerned looks at the oblivious Elven Prince who sat tensely staring ahead.  The silence was broken a short time later by new arrivals. Lord Elrond had arrived. He was not alone though and Legolas looked on in increasing anxiety as Lady Galadriel, Lord Celeborn, Lord Denethor and Mithrandir also entered the room.

"Legolas, it is good to see you awake," the lady of the golden wood said with a gentle smile.

"I thank you," Legolas said formally. "I also offer my thanks for your assistance in both freeing Celdarion from the dark magic entrapping him, and for your part in my recovery last night."

"I was glad to be of assistance," she replied with a soft smile and gentle eyes.

"Come now, Legolas, if you will join me in your father's bedroom, I will quickly examine, then we may return here to discuss the events leading up to your recovery last night." Lord Elrond beckoned the younger elf to follow him.

Legolas cast a quick look around the room, but found no avenue of help. Everyone was looking at him expectantly, waiting for him to follow Elrond. Legolas sighed and his shoulders slumped visibly. He rose with grace and followed the Lord of Rivendell into the next room.

~~~~~~~~~~

Legolas stood stiffly in the centre of the room.

"Is this really so difficult?" Lord Elrond enquired gently.

Legolas looked up, his eyes watering, his mouth creating a small moue of distress. "I do not wish to be touched," he said.

"I understand. Have you spoken to Aragorn yet?"

Legolas gazed back at the older Elven lord with a look of confusion, "Spoken to him concerning what?"

"Don't you think you should tell him about your reluctance for physical contact? It may not help for him to find out on your wedding night." Elrond looked consideringly at the young prince. "You can still call this event off."

Legolas cast a sharp look at Elrond. "Nay. I do not want that. I do wish to be married to Aragorn. With every fiber of my being. I will conquer this fear before we are wedded, I will not let the actions of Lord Gafen spoil my chances for happiness." Legolas said determinedly.

"That is very admirable little one, but how will you conquer this fear in just a few short days when you can barely restrain yourself from flinching every time someone touches you, inadvertent or not?"

"It is not so bad when Aragorn touches me. The initial contact is the worst, for the shock of it, but I know it is he, and his touch comforts me, as does that of my father. This will not be a problem," he insisted.

"Very well. Come then, let us return to the others," Elrond turned back towards the door.

"I thought that you were to inspect me for injuries?" Legolas asked hesitantly.

Elrond looked back at the young prince. "My inspection of you last night whilst you were sleeping was sufficient, there was as you say no real physical harm beyond a few bruises which I hastened in healing."

Legolas nodded, glad that he had been unconscious for that examination. "My thanks," he said and followed the Elven Lord back into his father's sitting room.

The other's had already taken seats and instinctively Legolas sat on a small stool next to his father. Thranduil absent mindedly placed his hand on Legolas' back stroking softly to comfort the tense figure of his son.

"Prince Legolas, can you please tell us how you came to captured?" Lord Denethor asked.

Legolas nodded, casting his mind back to that day. "I had decided to go riding that morning. Aragorn had left already to join the dunedain. Celdarion came with me, his dislikes my going anywhere without a protector," he laughed bitterly. "We had not long been in the woods when we were confronted by a man. Although at that time we did not know that he was actually a sorcerer wielding dark magic."

"Verius?" Celeborn asked, and Legolas flinched at the name.

"Yes. He called forth magic which flew from his hands and subdued both Celdarion and I instantly. I knew nothing then until I awoke. I was already in the lair of the sorcerer, but his dark magic restrained me still. I could not move at all. It was then that he revealed that he was in the employ of Lord Gafen."

"Why should a sorcerer of Verius' caliber be in the employ of an old man?" Thranduil mused allowed.

"I do not believe that he was employed in the way you are thinking. I think that this all stemmed from a bargain. Something Lord Gafen had that Verius wanted. Is that not so Legolas?" Galadriel cast knowing eyes upon the Prince.

"Daela," he forced out through frozen lips. "When he was… Gafen… he told me that his family had long held a pact with Verius. That women from their family had been given over to him."

"What happened to the women?" Denethor asked deeply disturbed. He had known Gafen for a very long time and had suspected nothing the nefarious goings on at Gafen's estate.

"Murdered," Legolas said, "If they were lucky." Those who had seen Daela's ravaged body understood immediately what this meant, and Aragorn who had seen much in his time with the dunedain also understood the meaning behind Legolas' words. "Verius had some use for their blood, I think that he used it in some way to keep himself youthful. He himself had fathered the line originally." Legolas continued.

"That would make sense," Mithrandir spoke for the first time. "The blood of his own line is closer in connection with whatever magic he is using. The dark arts always calls for a blood sacrifice, and if you do not wish to use your own, what could be the next best thing, other than to use the blood of your kin."

Shudders snaked their way down the spines of most of the rooms occupants.

"So, Verius has succeeded in prolonging his life span again?" Celeborn asked.

"No," they all turned to look at Legolas. "The magic failed. Verius said that it had failed because Daela was not really Gafen's daughter."

"Ha, so he is vulnerable now. There is no one left of his line to procure new sources from now that Gafen is dead." Thranduil stated fiercely glad.

"I would not be so sure. I do not think that Verius is one to give up so easily." Mithrandir stated.

"In any case, we shall not need to worry about him for some time. Galadriel you said that last night had drained him severely. Well then, we can place him out of our minds for a while. We still have the wedding to arrange. Then we can concentrate on hunting out this foul piece of vermin and eliminating him," Thranduil said.

"Very well, in three days hence, Aragorn and Legolas shall be wedded, and the treaty between Mirkwood and Gondor sealed," Denethor said with a note of satisfaction.

~Part Thirteen~

After Lord Denethor's statement conversation had moved on to the forthcoming celebrations, so Aragorn quickly made his excuses and dragged Legolas off with him.  The Elven Prince made no argument having no wish to be drawn into conversations about decorations for the main banqueting hall, or even the city as a whole.

Aragorn maintained his hold on Legolas' hand and led him outside to the gardens.  They made their way with few interruptions to the secluded waterfall that Aragorn had previously revealed to the elf.

"At last, I have you to myself," Aragorn said with no little satisfaction.  He drew Legolas down to sit on the grass beside him.  "There has been so little time since I learned of your abduction.  I want you to know Legolas that had it been possible I would have been there myself to rescue you.  The messenger bearing the news from Minas Tirith did not reach me until I had joined the dunedain, and then as much as we wished to rush back to take part in your recovery our party was attacked by orcs near the borders of Southern Mirkwood.  Please forgive me for not being there."

Legolas smiled gently.  "No forgiveness is required Aragorn.  I know that you did everything in your power to return as swiftly as possible and I could never hold the delays against you.  All that matters is that I am here with you now."

"Yes that is the most important thing.  I wish for these next few days to pass swiftly so that we can be bonded. United as one."

"Truly I wish that too, although I fear that we shall have very little time after the marriage ceremony before your coronation as King of Gondor." Legolas pointed out.

"And your coronation as Prince Consort," Aragorn added.  "Yet we have the rest of our lives to enjoy one another.  But first you must tell me of your fears."

Legolas frowned in confusion, "I do not understand."

Aragorn gently stroked Legolas' fingers.  "My love, I have seen how you pull away whenever anyone touches you.  I understand this comes from your treatment at the hands of Gafen and the sorcerer Verius.  I want for you to be able to talk to me of anything that troubles you.  What pains you pains me also.  Please beloved do not pull away.  Talk to me.  I could think no less of you, you are my light, nothing will change that."

Legolas felt tears spring to his eyes at Aragorn's earnest expression and heartfelt words.  "I… It is difficult Aragorn.  Please believe me, I do not mean to pull away from you, it is just that whenever I feel the brush of another against my skin, it reminds me of hands touching me against my will.  My mind is thrown back to that room, where I could not move.  I feared for my virtue, indeed for my very soul.  Had Boromir not arrived when he did… I am trying so very hard to push this memory aside.  I do not wish to disappoint you."

"This you could never do.  I know also that this will also take time to heal.  I promise you now Legolas, I shall do nothing that you do not consent to.  I will never hurt you."  Aragorn said fervently.

"I know that you mean well, but you cannot promise that you will never cause me hurt.  However I know that you would never cause me hurt intentionally, and that is all anyone can promise another."

"Dear Legolas, you are so very wise," Aragorn said with a teasing smile.  Then his expression sobered.  "I should very much like to kiss you now, if you do not object."

Legolas affected a sober expression too, but the twinkling of humor in his eyes gave him away. "I think I should very much like that."

He held his breath as Aragorn's head moved closer to his own, yet slowly so as to give Legolas time to pull away should he wish it.  Such was Legolas' anticipation of the kiss that he did not pull away and was lost immediately to the sensations that Aragorn's lips against his own invoked.  His hands came up to rest on Aragorn's shoulders, and he felt the man's hands gently caress the back of his head and the skin at the side of his throat.  He moaned softly, trying to deepen the kiss.

Aragorn pulled away as the need for air became too demanding, though he paused only for a moment to gaze into Legolas' glazed blue eyes before he moved back in for another kiss.  Aragorn's hand slid slowly of it's own volition to the front of Legolas' tunic.  His hand automatically seeking a way to the bare skin beneath even as Aragorn was absorbed in the kiss.

Legolas too was held captive to the sensation that arose from this passionate embrace, until he felt Aragorn's fingers against his chest.  He immediately froze in a mind numbing moment of panic.

"No," he murmured in distress trying to pull away.

It took Aragorn a few moments to notice that Legolas was no longer an active participant; indeed the elf was beginning to struggle within his embrace.  He pulled away in confusion.  Then he noticed the tense face of the elf before him, and realized that the wandering of his hands had led to Legolas' current panicked state.

"Legolas," he called softly trying to recapture the Elf Prince's attention.

Blinking as though waking from a dream Legolas responded to his voice and turned to look at him.  Realization of his surroundings calmed him somewhat, and he felt the embarrassed confusion well up inside him.  "Aragorn I… I am sorry."

"It is okay Legolas, it is my fault.  I should not have been so eager, I forgot for a moment."

Legolas' face took on a bitter expression.  "I wish that I could also forget."

"In time you will, but you cannot rush this thing," Aragorn offered sagely.  "Come now.  It has been some time since breakfast and I am quite famished.  Let us see what we can sneak from the cook."

Aragorn rose and offered his hand to the elf prince.  Legolas looked up at him and nodded, before taking the hand and rising gracefully to his feet.

~~~~~~~~~~

Lunch became a hurried affair as Lord Denethor found them whilst they were eating, and informed them that their presence was required to go over more of the plans for the ceremony.  Aragorn looked at Legolas, his eyes conveying the boredom he was sure was to follow and Legolas suppressed a snigger as they were hurried to Denethor's study.

Their meeting with Denethor proved to be the first of many which would culminate in first the marriage union, followed by the coronation some three days after that.  They found very little time to call their own, and try as they might no excuses could be made that would satisfy any of their elders.  So it was they found themselves taking last minute lessons from Lord Denethor on what they should expect upon taking up the reigns of leadership.  Both Princes found themselves captive to their tailors on more than one occasion as both their wedding outfits and in Legolas' case, almost an entirely new wardrobe suited for Gondorian statesmanship were created in record time.

And then the day dawned.  The day that Legolas had been both wishing for and dreading at the same time.  He had no misgivings over his mate.  Now that he was aware of Aragorn's identity he could not be happier.  He was more than ready to spend the rest of his life with the man.  He did feel some slight measure of guilt in the way that he had thought of Boromir, when he had mistakenly taken Lord Denethor's elder son for Prince Elessar.

Since his rescue he had looked upon the man with new eyes, and had even discovered the reason for Boromir's cold countenance. Tragically Boromir's young wife had died in childbirth, and with her their first child.  From all accounts the man had been heartbroken, nothing could console him, until he eventually closed his heart away from the rest of the world.  Legolas hoped that in time he could find some means of helping Boromir overcome his grief.  Such a thing would only pay back a small part of the debt that Legolas felt he owed Boromir for his timely rescue.

A knock on the door caught his attention.  "Yes?" he called out.

Celdarion's head appeared around the doorway.  "If you have had enough of your bed, perhaps you might get up to prepare yourself for the ceremony," he older elf said in a dry tone.

Legolas laughed lightly and threw one of his pillows at the nimble elf who avoided it without effort, catching it, and throwing it back with some force at the young prince.  Legolas' own reflexes did not let him down and he jumped swiftly from the bed to avoid the pillow.

"Cease Celdarion.  I am risen.  Now please allow me a few moments to collect myself before I face the trial that is my father."

"I am sure His Majesty wishes only for perfection on your special day," Celdarion said soberly, a mischievous smirk playing around his mouth.

"Yes I am sure that is so, and that is why he is waiting for me armed with his personal tailor, and a barrage of the palace's servants all ready to do his bidding whilst I stand as a statue and allow them to dress me to their satisfaction."  A sulking pout appeared on Legolas' face.

"Yes you must also remember that this is your father's last opportunity for these activities.  He is ever aware that from now on your place is here in the city of men with only time for brief visits to the land of your birth.  It will not be easy for him Legolas," Celdarion said, his tone all seriousness now.

Legolas sighed.  "I know.  It will be just as hard for me I am sure.  Never have I spent any amount of time away from Mirkwood, or indeed even my father.  He has been the constant in my life without whom I would surely not be the elf I am today."

"Such a pity then, that your father did not decide to bundle you off to one of his distant relatives for safekeeping and save us all the bother of your antics."  Celdarion said smiling.

"Ah, foul creature, be gone!" Legolas shouted and threw another pillow at the retreating warrior.

Legolas allowed a short amount of time to freshen himself before going to his father's rooms.  As expected, the room was full of servants awaiting his appearance before they could, under the eagle eyes of King Thranduil begin to make him ready for his marriage ceremony.  Legolas suffered through it in silence.  Allowing his father a last chance to fuss over him.

~~~~~~~~~~

Aragorn's preparations couldn't have been more different.  With the minimum amount of fuss, only his valet and Lord Elrond present Aragorn dressed himself for one of the most important days of his life.

The outfit he had chosen was simple in design.  A creamy colored outfit, white breeches that fit him snugly, with tan boots that came up to just under his knees.  A tunic of the same color completed the outfit.  He was bereft of all weapons, ceremonial or otherwise as befit the occasion.  On his head he wore only a simple silver circlet that denoted his status as Crown Prince.  This would be exchanged for a formal crown on the day of his coronation and a golden circlet for day-to-day affairs of state.

Now all he had to do was wait until it was time whereupon the leader of the dunedain, a hard man named Crelyn would come to fetch him and he would be escorted to his honor guard.  They would lead him then to the large square in the centre of Minas Tirith, so that his marriage would be subject to his citizens.  Once the ceremony was complete they would escort both he and his new consort back to the palace to take part in the festivities.  He knew all of this, and still could not explain why time would not fly faster, that he might be wedded to Legolas all the sooner.

Lord Elrond watched on in amusement.

Finally, to Aragorn's great relief, Crelyn appeared at the doorway, and with a raised eyebrow at the pacing of his liege lord, said simply, "It is time."

Aragorn's little cortège made their way through the main streets of Minas Tirith to the city's central square.  Crowds lined the sides of the streets and people hung from windows in the buildings behind them, all wishing for a glimpse of their future king.  The roaring of the crowd was heart warming to Aragorn.

As they reached the square Aragorn saw that again every available space was filled with crowds of his people.  A large dais sat in the middle of the square surrounded by palace guards standing to attention.  On the dais itself sat many of the dignitaries who had traveled to witness his wedding and his coronation, they sat together to one side. Their number included the Lady Galadriel, Lord Celeborn, Lord Denethor, and along with them his foster father Lord Elrond.

In the centre of the dais stood a tall grey bearded figure the Istari, Mithrandir who was to preside over the ceremony itself.  Aragorn watched absentmindedly as his escort of dunedain took their place on the dais, both to witness the event and to act as a further guard for the Royal party.  He walked over to take his place by the wizard, and to await his beloved's arrival.

His eyes searched the main avenue that led from the palace to the square looking for some sign of his betrothed.  A hand on his arm drew his attention back.

"Patience young man, he will arrive.  I believe it is customary for one's intended to arrive a little late, it heightens the anticipation does it not?" the wizard said with a gentle smile.

"You are right Mithrandir, yet I have longed for this moment it seems for all of my life.  Now that I am finally here I want everything to go perfectly.  It cannot even begin of course until my intended actually arrives."

Suddenly the roaring of the crowds seemed to lessen, replaced instead with a hushed murmur of awe, which seemed to sweep across the crowd.  Aragorn turned swiftly back to the main avenue, and was greeted with a breathtaking sight.

Down the avenue a party of elves seemed to glide.  It was a mixed party consisting of both female and male elves, all dressed similarly.  All wore tunics of forest green, symbol of a wood elf.  Their long hair hung loose, woven with flowers.  Two elves at the front of the party were dropping flower petals as they walked.  

As they reached the dais the front ranks of the elves moved aside and Aragorn's jaw dropped in open-mouthed wonder.

For there stood Legolas.

Aragorn could not draw his attention away from his betrothed to take in the Prince's father at his side, instead Aragorn tried to focus merely on breathing.  The Elven Prince was dressed in a tunic made of a pearly color that seemed to shine with it's own glow.  Perhaps it was not the tunic but actually the glow from within Legolas, Aragorn mused, and indeed the elf did seem to glow.  His hair hung down his back small braids woven into its length, and into those braids were placed small flowers. A small circlet woven from leaves and flowers also sat upon his head, a testament to both his status as Prince and a wood elf.  Thranduil's head was similarly adorned but more ornately.

Aragorn's eyes traveled down the Prince's body noting the form fitting breeches, also in a pearly color, and his bare feet.  Aragorn's breath almost left his body as he took in the perfectly formed feet that walked lightly over the strewn petals leaving no sign of his passing.  His traveled back up again to meet the eyes of his beloved.

Legolas stood serenely, the focus of all attention now, and yet not seeming to be aware of that fact.  Instead his eyes had only one focus.  Aragorn.  His blue eyes burned with an intensity that was breathtaking, and Aragorn watched as that gaze, and its owner drew nearer.

Thranduil signaled subtly with his hand and the company of elves dispersed to take up positions amongst the dunedain on the dais.  Thranduil bought Legolas to stand at Aragorn's side, and smiled to himself as he saw that the two young ones had eyes only for each other. His gaze flickered around and he saw Lord Elrond smiling in acknowledgement.

The sudden booming sound of Mithrandir's staff hitting the dais echoed loudly in the square and indeed carried on through the streets.  Its effect was immediate.  All sound ceased and the eyes of everyone were drawn back to the Istari.  Even the two young Princes forcibly removed their gaze from each other to focus upon the old wizard who was to conduct the ceremony.

"Ah, now that I have your attention," Mithrandir said with a small smile.  "Shall we begin?  Citizens of Middle Earth you have gathered here today to witness the union of Aragorn, son of Arathorn, Crown Prince of Gondor, Lord of the Dunedain with Legolas son of Thranduil, Crown Prince of the Elven realm of Mirkwood."  The wizard's words seemed to boom out unnaturally loud so that all those gathered in the square might hear.

Aragorn and Legolas shared another swift look before turning once again to the wizard.

"For this union to be binding, both parties must agree without coercion that this union is what they desire.  Aragorn, do you freely enter into this union with Legolas understanding that once the union is complete is cannot be dissolved?"

"I do," Aragorn said without hesitation smiling at his beloved.

"And you Legolas, do you also freely enter into this union with Aragorn understanding that once the union is complete is cannot be dissolved?"

"Yes, I do," Legolas said firmly.

"Good, good," the Istari said smiling.  "Now if you will please join hands."  

Mithrandir began a chanting, that although softly spoken seemed to echo with clarity throughout the crowds, and the people massed held their breath in anticipation of what magic was being worked here.

Suddenly the air seemed to shimmer around the two Princes.  The air seemed to become slightly less clear with an almost bluish tinge to it.

To the two within this magical working things were no different at first.  First there seemed to be a slight tickle to the nerves.  Then there was the strangest sensation of a touch on their minds.  The touch increasing, as the air around them seemed to grow more magically charged.

Finally all mental barriers were swept away and Legolas and Aragorn found themselves mentally joined.  Their thoughts easily accessible to the other, and suddenly Legolas found himself bathed in a mental light as Aragorn projected through the link the very depths of his feelings for the Elven Prince.

Tears formed in Legolas' eyes as he beheld himself through Aragorn's eyes, a creature of light and beauty, a representation of all that was wonderful in the world.  Legolas focused upon his own feelings for the man and projected them into Aragorn's mind.

A dazzling smile was his response as Aragorn in return beheld himself as Legolas saw him.  Strong, brave, and caring were at his core, yet the package came wrapped in a very attractive wrapping.

"I love you," he said to the man before him.

"As I do you," was his reply.

The air around them seemed to thicken to an almost solid state and then with a small pop it was gone, as was their mental connection.  Legolas immediately missed the feel of Aragorn's mind caressing his own.

"It is done," a voice intoned near them, and they turned with dazed expressions to the intense cheering of the crowd.

"You are now married," Mithrandir offered gently to them.

Aragorn raised Legolas' hand to his mouth, and gently kissed the silken skin.  "You are now mine," he said.

"As you are mine," Legolas grinned happily, and tugging his hand away from Aragorn's mouth, he moved in to replace it with his own lips.  And the married couple exchanged their first embrace, much to the approval of those gathered.

"Come," the old wizard said loudly, "Let us go and celebrate."

~~~~~~~~~~

Food and refreshments had been waiting for their return to the palace and the married couple were firmly ensconced at the head table to receive their guests.  Many of the visiting dignitaries had bought gifts, which were now presented.

From the lords of men came gifts of horses, fine cloth, the finest vintage wines, and many other things prized by the kingdoms of men.  Even the dwarves had attended, and though they did not understand why a man should wish to wed an elf they did not want to ruin relations between the kingdoms of men and the dwarves.  With them they bought glittering jewels, created with the finest workmanship, made from the gems they mined combined with precious metals such as gold, and silver.

One dwarf paused before their table, and Aragorn smiled knowingly before getting up from his seat beside his new consort and moving to stand before the dwarf.

"Gimli, son of Gloin, it has been long since we met, yet I thank you for coming on this, the happiest of days.  Tell me, were you able to complete my request?"  Aragorn said, and Legolas watched with curiosity as the dwarf Gimli presented a small box to his new husband.

"I did indeed Prince Elessar.  The finest raw materials or workmanship you will find nowhere else," he stated proudly.

"I am sure of it Master Gimli," Aragorn said.  Then he opened the box.  He gasped at the contents.  "Indeed Master Gimli, you have outdone even yourself on this occasion, for surely nowhere else can such works of art be found."

Gimli harrumphed but a small blush stole across his features where his body's hair did not hide his face.

Legolas looked on with increasing interest as Aragorn carried the box back to him.  Conversations within the hall had ceased as all waited with baited breath to see what could have inspired such awe from the Prince.

"What is it you have there Aragorn?"  Legolas asked smiling.

"My love, as soon as your father had confirmed that we could be wed, I sent word to the nearest dwarven colony where Master Gimli makes his home.  I asked him if he could create something.  A token for my consort and I, a symbol of our love."  He presented the box to Legolas.

Legolas took the box and looked down at its contents.  His breath caught in his throat.  Nestled within layers of soft velvet sat two rings.  Made of the finest mithril a fine band, which appeared to consist of the tiniest woven strands of leaves.  Yet the inside of the ring was smooth metal except for where elvish characters spelt out both Aragorn's name and his own.  Each ring was identical save for size, Aragorn's being slightly bigger to wrap around his larger digits.

Legolas looked up to Aragorn, his love shone clearly in his eyes as he handed the box back to Aragorn, but not before taking out the ring that belonged on Aragorn's finger.  Aragorn took the smaller ring from the box, and placed the box aside before turning back to his mate.  Legolas took his left hand in his own and gently slid the ring onto the ring finger.  It fit perfectly, another testament to the dwarvish craftsmanship that had created it.

Aragorn in turn took Legolas' more finely boned hand in his own and gently slid the ring onto his finger.  He heard a small sigh of satisfaction leave Legolas' mouth, and he smiled as their eyes met.

A loud eruption of cheering startled them, and they realized that they had forgotten the presence of the others in the hall.  They shared a small smile, and Legolas with all the grace of his people rose before Gimli the dwarf.

"Master dwarf," he said in his musical voice.  "I can offer no thanks that would be sufficient for the place in my heart the products of your craft now hold.  Please know that you and your kin will always be welcome here."

Gimli looked at the elf in mild surprise.  He had not expected such a sentiment to come from an elf.  Nevertheless he nodded gravely in acknowledgement and moved back to join the rest of the elves.

Finally representatives from the Elven kingdoms came forward to present their own gifts.  All were amazed at the selection.  From Lothlorien they were presented with yet more cloth, but this cloth unlike any other, for it seemed to change constantly before their eyes, and it was revealed that this material was woven by the hands of the Lady Galadriel and her handmaidens.

Legolas clapped with delight at the gift from Rivendell.  Small plants native only to that Elven kingdom sat in small pots awaiting transplantation to the gardens in the palace.  He looked forward to nurturing those plants in the days to come.

Finally King Thranduil rose from his place beside his son.  "I am afraid that Mirkwood can offer very little to this union.  Its greatest gift has already been received by the Prince of Gondor."  Thranduil said and Aragorn smiled in understanding.

"Indeed, I could not ask for a greater gift," the Prince of men said.  Legolas blushed.

"Then instead please accept a far more humble gift," Thranduil continued and motioned for some of his retinue to come forward.

A large chest was carried forward and pulled open.  The human contingent of the court gasped in astonishment, for inside lay spools of the finest silk, procured from captive spiders and then enchanted so that it lost it's adhesiveness, but not it's strength.  A single strand of such silk could carry the weight of three men without strain.

"My thanks, father, for so generous a gift.  I know what it takes to procure such an item."  Legolas said.

"Yet it is still nothing to the treasure Mirkwood has lost today my son," Thranduil said softly that only Legolas might hear his words.

Legolas embraced his father.  "Mirkwood is not the only thing to feel sorrow father, for I fear that I am not looking forward to your own departure for our homelands."

"As it is with I my son, however I feel that I do not yet need to rush my return to our wooded realm.  I shall stay some time yet I think."

Legolas squeezed his father tightly in gratitude.

~~~~~~~~~~

The celebrations continued for many hours yet only a few hours after sunset Aragorn caught the hand of his new consort and pulled Legolas gently to his feet.  "Come my love, it is time for us to retire to our rooms."

Legolas swallowed nervously and nodded.  On their way out Aragorn stopped to tell his father, and King Thranduil, who was him, that they were retiring for the night.  Both Elven lords wished them well.  Thranduil casting a worried look at his son's pale face.  Legolas forced a smile of reassurance and followed as Aragorn continued to guide them from the room.  The hushed quiet in the corridors of the castle were a refreshing change to Legolas from the loud crush of bodies in the main banqueting hall.  

Upon their union Aragorn's belongings had been moved into the King's suite of rooms.  Legolas' own belongings had also been moved here, and now they were ready to begin their lives as a married couple.  So it was with some excitement, and some trepidation that Legolas followed his mate through the large sitting room of the suite and into the main bedchamber beyond.  The room was dominated by the large four-poster bed, and Legolas could not draw his eyes away.  He paused at the threshold of the room.

Aragorn sighed in satisfaction.  Someone had thoughtfully laid out a small selection of sweet meats and some wine.  He turned back to his new spouse, and saw Legolas halted in the doorway.  The elf's eyes were huge in a pale face.

"Legolas, you are afraid!"  It was not a question.

Legolas looked at Aragorn, unable to deny the softly spoken statement.  Aragorn slowly closed the distance between himself and the elf.  Reaching out he took Legolas' cold hand into his own.

"It will be alright my love.  We will do nothing that you do not desire.  Come sit with me and drink some wine.  Perhaps it will put some color back into your cheeks."  Aragorn said tugging gently.  

Legolas allowed himself to be led forward, focusing his gaze solely on his husband, trying to ignore the presence of the large bed.  He sat next to Aragorn, a plate of sweet meats between them, and Legolas was reminded of their first meeting.  Aragorn passed a goblet of wine to Legolas who took tentative sips.

"I remember the first moment I saw you," Aragorn said unexpectedly.  "I had just made my appearance at the first ball to celebrate my coming coronation.  There were a great deal of people all pushing forward trying to attract my attention.  And then I saw you through a gap in the crowd.  You looked as though you did not wish to be here.  And that more than your beauty caught my interest."

"That was when I first saw you also.  I did not know that you were Prince Elessar, I saw only a very fetching man dressed simply in the crowd for but a moment until you sought me out."  

"Legolas, I knew from the moment that I saw you that I had to be with you, joined for always, and now we are and I could not be any happier."

Aragorn took the wine from Legolas' hand and moved the plate onto a small table.  Then he turned back to the elf.  Legolas sat with his hands in his lap uncertain of what he should do.  The problem was solved for him as Aragorn gently leaned in to kiss him.

He moaned softly as a familiar fiery passion rose within him.  He pushed further into the kiss, opening his mouth to invite Aragorn in.  Aragorn needed no second chance as his tongue immediately plunged into the sweet depths of Legolas' mouth.  Aragorn finally pulled away and Legolas released a small sound of disappointment.

"My love, I want to make love with you, but first I wish you to be at ease.  This night you shall be in control.  Do with me as you will," Aragorn said, and with a grin he flopped back onto the bed and waited.

Legolas hesitated, and then with a firming of his resolve he moved further up the bed so that he could sit at Aragorn's side.  His fingers moved to the fastenings on Aragorn's tunic.  Legolas looked down in fascination as more of Aragorn's skin was exposed to him.  Finally when all the fastenings were removed he looked at Aragorn, the look conveying Legolas' wish to remove the tunic altogether.

Once his tunic had been removed Aragorn lay back down.  He assumed a relaxed pose but inside he was strung with nervous tension waiting to see what Legolas would do next.  He was quickly answered as Legolas' hand gently moved forward and made contact with his furred chest.  Aragorn sucked in sharp breath as the wave of desire that slammed through his body at just this small touch.  He hoped he could control himself enough to let Legolas enjoy this experience without rushing him to completion.

The inquisitive hand became slightly bolder as it stroked the soft skin of the man.  Legolas could not help feeling curious at the sensation of the chest hair on his fingers.  He had never felt anything like it before.  Elves were not endowed with much body hair save for on their heads.  To find so much of it on one person was a new experience for Legolas.  His fingers stroked down caressing the ribs he could feel under the muscled body.  Beneath his touch Aragorn quivered.

Legolas looked up at the man's face, looking to reassure himself that this was okay.  He was more than satisfied by the glazed look of passion that Aragorn wore.  He became a little bolder, and leaned down to gently kiss the skin around Aragorn's navel.  Aragorn sucked in a deep breath, overwhelmed by the sensation of Legolas' lips on his body.  His hands at his sides grasped at the sheets and his toes curled.

"Am I doing this right?" Legolas asked with an innocent expression.

"You are doing… ahhhh…just fine Legolas," Aragorn managed to respond, and closed his eyes to heighten the sensations caused by the elf's caresses, he missed the look of mischief that Legolas' face now held.

Eager to explore more, Legolas decided that he could now remove Aragorn's breeches.  This would be his toughest test so far yet he resolved that his fear would not overwhelm him.  Aragorn's body jerked as Legolas' hands moved to the fastening of his breeches.  As with the upper body Legolas was enthralled both by the sense of power he was now feeling over his mastery of Aragorn's body and the exciting sense of discovery as he took in the magnificence that was Aragorn.  

The breeches were swiftly removed and finally Aragorn was completely displayed to him.  Legolas could not avoid the large jutting evidence of the man's desire, and he felt a momentary twinge of panic before he pushed the feeling away.  He moved his gaze away from Aragorn's manhood and instead looked at the strong thighs and without realizing it, Legolas' hands found their way to the hair covered limbs and he stroked gently, feeling the quivering of powerful muscles beneath his fingers.

"Legolas please, you are torturing me," Aragorn broke out at last.

Legolas smiled teasingly.  "Indeed, this is very useful information, I shall have to remember."

"Legolas!"

Legolas moved back up to Aragorn's head and he leant forward to press his lips against the Gondorian prince.

"I am not sure what to do next Aragorn," he confessed.

"You have never been with another male?"  Aragorn asked in surprise.

"Never, it was expected that I would remain virgin if I took a husband, although I have lain with a few elf maidens."

"Then this will be similar.  A male's body entrance is much like that of a maiden, however it takes a little more preparation before penetration," Aragorn said, searching Legolas' face for hints of what the Prince was feeling.

"I see.  So you will stretch me before I take you into myself?"  Legolas asked his voice laced with trepidation.

"No, Legolas, you are in control tonight, you will prepare me so that I may take you into myself."

"But… I am the one who must bear children, Aragorn."

"It is okay, my love, we do not need to start on creating heirs this very night.  Tonight is solely for you and I.  Now see, I have some oil here, you can use this to prepare me.  But for the Valar's sake, Legolas, please do not take too long for I fear I might burst from frustration."  Aragorn said and Legolas smiled in response.

He took the vial of oil from his new husband, opening the cap and pouring some of the oil onto his hand.  He made sure his fingers was well coated, and then with a questioning look at Aragorn found his way to the entrance to Aragorn's body.  He gently pushed forward into the dark entrance, and at first encountered some resistance.  He frowned, and tried to push a little harder.

Aragorn feeling the breaching of his body tried to relax a little more to make things easier on his elven lover.  Finally Legolas' digit made its way past the barrier ring, and Aragorn moaned.  It had been some since he had last been touched in this manner, and there was a slight burning at first but he pushed the feeling aside and concentrated instead on the feeling of Legolas' finger moving inside his body.

Legolas began to gently push his finger up into Aragorn's tight channel, then easing back again, rotating it slightly in an attempt to stretch the muscles.  As Legolas pushed up into Aragorn's body he felt a nub and his finger stroked it curiously.  He was startled by the effect that it had on Aragorn.

The man moaned loudly and arched his back, his body pushing itself further onto Legolas' fingers.  Legolas felt the contraction of inner muscles around his finger and a wave of burning fire shot down to his loins, his body would soon be ensconced within this hot tight channel, and Legolas found the idea almost too much for his own control.  Instead, in consideration for his lover, he inserted another digit into Aragorn's body, making scissoring motions to further stretch the tight channel.

"Enough, Legolas, please.  I need to feel you inside me now, please," Aragorn begged, his pride nothing in the face of his desire.

Legolas' passions had been awakened and all his fears were pushed aside as he quickly divested himself of his clothes.  His coated his own straining member with more of the oil and then moved to sit between Aragorn's thighs.  He looked down at the man.

"Are you sure?" he asked gently.

"Yes, I have never been more sure of anything, Legolas please take me now, I can bear no more."

Aragorn's legs wrapped themselves around Legolas' waist and Legolas positioned himself at the entrance to Aragorn's most private part and he slowly eased forward.  Aragorn found that there was still some slight pain even after the stretching, but hid this.  He did not wish to scare off his mate.  Instead he gritted his teeth and pushed back against Legolas trying to ease him further into his body.  Between the pushing of both Princes, Legolas finally found himself completely submerged within Aragorn.  

He paused to catch his breath, and looked down at his lover.  Then with his gaze locked upon Aragorn's he began to move.  Slowly at first thrusting gently to let Aragorn get used to the pace, and then with a little more force.  He angled his body in an attempt to find that sweet spot he had brushed with his fingers and was rewarded with a shudder and cry of triumph from Aragorn, and he moved again and again to hit that same spot.

Aragorn found his desire mounting to an almost volcanic status, and he reached down between his legs to grasp his straining member, stroking himself in time to Legolas' thrusts.  Aragorn felt himself move closer and closer to the edge and with a great shout of Legolas' name he reached his climax, his seed shooting from his body with a great force.  His inner muscles clenched around Legolas' member and with a keening cry the elf reached his peak.  Aragorn felt a hot burst within him as Legolas' body shot forth its seed.

Legolas slumped forward in a sudden exhaustion as he carefully withdrew himself from Aragorn's body.  His mouth tiredly sought out the man for a deep kiss, a representation of all they had just shared.

Aragorn wrapped his arms around the lightweight body of his partner, shifting Legolas to his side.  He nestled the slighter body against his own and looked down at the elf's face.  He smiled gently as he took in the vacant eyes and realized that Legolas had fallen asleep with a small smile on his face.

Aragorn pulled Legolas more tightly against his body before he too drifted off into an exhausted slumber.

~Part Fourteen~

With reluctance Legolas left the dreamscape, his gaze becoming focused instead on his surroundings.  He felt a hardness pressed up against him and for a moment forgot where he was.  He stiffened in panic his eyes flicking around him looking for escape.  His gaze encountered the sleeping body next to him, and he relaxed with a deep sigh of relief.  Aragorn.

Morning light shone through open curtains, someone had already attended them this morning and Legolas saw a jug and basin set aside for them to use once they had risen.  Legolas looked back at the sleeping man.  Aragorn looked impossibly young, his face relaxed in unconsciousness.  Legolas noticed that his eyes moved quickly under the closed lids, and realized that Aragorn was experiencing the human form of dreaming.  It was obviously a pleasant one Legolas thought wryly as he felt the hard member pressed against his thigh jerk a little.

The Elven Prince decided to take advantage of this moment to examine Aragorn's body.  The man was lean but muscled, much like one of the racing dogs of the men.  His hair fell to his shoulder in a dark fan over the white pillow beneath him.  Yet all this became irrelevant, as Legolas found his attention drawn against his will back to the hot hard length of Aragorn jutting out proudly from his body.

When seeing Gafen in this state, Legolas had panicked. His fear and disgust overwhelming him, but to see Aragorn like this, aroused a sense of curiosity. There was still some lingering fear, but last night had done much to allay that.  Aragorn had allowed him complete control over their pace and exactly what Legolas wanted to do.

His curiosity now driving him, Legolas sent a quick glance to Aragorn's face to make sure the man was still sleeping, and then with a trembling hand he reached out to touch the hard muscle.  He gently let one finger stroke down Aragorn's length.  It was not at all what he had expected.  The skin was smooth and soft yet it was just a cover to the hardness below.  Feeling a little bolder Legolas gently encircled his husband's member with one hand.  He almost backed off in surprise as the hardness jerked beneath his grasp, growing even harder if that was possible.

Legolas was caught up in his fascination now, he let the hand encircling Aragorn glide slowly up and down getting a feel for the pulsing hot hardness beneath his fingers.  Legolas noticed a small bead of pearly fluid appear at the tip of Aragorn's manhood.  He reached out with a finger and touched it.  The moisture transferred itself to Legolas' finger, and Legolas swiftly bought his finger to his mouth to taste.  The initial taste was one of bitterness, but Legolas' elven sense bypassed that and through the small bead of moisture came the essence of Aragorn.

Delighted Legolas leaned down and delicately licked the tip of Aragorn's member, wanting to taste more of his husband.  The hard length gave another jerk, and Legolas looked up quickly.  His gaze met the half lidded stare of Aragorn, and he immediately felt a blush steal over his features.

"Aragorn!" Legolas yelped in surprise.

"Good morning my love," Aragorn said softly.

"You are awake," Legolas said without thinking.

"And have been for some time," Aragorn added, a slow grin spreading across his face.

"Oh," the elven prince said.  "I did not know, I would not have played with you so had I known."

"Please do not restrain yourself on my behalf.  Feel free to play with me anytime you wish.  I am quite sure my body will let you know if it is enjoying your actions."  Aragorn had to restrain a laugh as he watched his mate's eyes travel back to his aching manhood.

He had awoken quite quickly as he felt the elf's exploration of his body but had chosen to remain quiet, hoping not to startle Legolas.  It had worked, and he had found it very difficult to restrain the sounds that wished to escape his mouth, as the elf had grown bolder in his actions.

When Legolas' mouth had touched his manhood he had almost lost control completely, and then Legolas had noticed that he was no longer sleeping.  Aragorn's gaze swept over the naked elf devouring him.  Legolas noticed the intense desire burning in Aragorn and felt his own body respond, his own length hardening.  He had recovered from the initial shock of Aragorn discovering his activities, and now he felt a more playful side of himself emerge.  Aiming for a seductive look, Legolas gazed at Aragorn through eyes half lidded, and he held the gaze as he bent his head back down towards Aragorn's length.

Continuing to lock his eyes with Aragorn he flicked his tongue out and licked the tip of the hard muscle before him.  Aragorn's fingers bunched in the sheets gripping them in an effort to control himself.  Seeing the power he held over Aragorn made Legolas more confident still.  His little licks at the tip of Aragorn's manhood became long licks down the length of the hard muscle.  Then Legolas discovered the twin sacs hanging beneath.

Curiously he reached out with his fingers to stroke the lightly furred skin.  He then cupped them in his hand squeezing gently to feel their shape.  Aragorn moaned loudly arching off the bed.

"Legolas please… stop," he cried out.

At once Legolas sat back, he looked at Aragorn in distress.  "I have done something wrong?" he asked.

Realizing his mistake Aragorn was quick to reassure the elf.  "Nay. You did nothing wrong, everything was wonderful, but had you continued I would have lost control and I do not wish to reach my climax without first pleasuring you too."

Legolas smiled.  "Very well Aragorn, how would you like to pleasure me?"  he asked.  Feeling at ease with his new husband, he lay back on the bed and looked up at Aragorn with a mischievous expectant smile.

"Ai, Legolas, you will yet be the death of me," Aragorn said with a long-suffering sigh.

Legolas laughed in amusement.

Aragorn decided to take his revenge by swooping in for a lingering kiss, which left the elf prince breathless.  He moved away from Legolas' mouth trailing small kisses across his cheeks, down to the side of his neck.  Legolas squirmed as Aragorn suckled then yelped as the man bit hit neck.

"Aragorn what are you…"

"Hush my love, just let yourself feel," Aragorn murmured and licked at the bite he had made on Legolas' neck.

He then moved his mouth further down to the hollow of the elf's collarbone.  His tongue traced intricate patterns on the elf's body as it worked its way further down still.  Across the pale chest and to the male nipples.  Aragorn used his tongue and teeth to arouse sensations from Legolas, whose squirming became more apparent.

Aragorn took pity on his mate and moved further down past Legolas' ribs, down on through his navel to reach his goal.  Legolas almost screamed as he felt Aragorn's mouth envelop his member.  The man expertly using his tongue and teeth to tease the sensitive skin of his length.  Sensation washed over Legolas and he became a slave to his body's desires.  He could only moan as Aragorn used ever bit of his past experience to make this as mind blowingly pleasurable for his beloved as he possibly could.  And he thought smugly to himself that it was working.

He heard a sudden change in the tone of Legolas' moaning, it became more of a keening, and he realized that his lover had almost peaked.  He sucked hard on the elf's body and screaming his name, Legolas shot his seed into the man's mouth.  Aragorn swallowed the almost sweet tasting fluid, and when Legolas had finished, his body softening, Aragorn released him.  He then climbed back up lay beside Legolas.  He gently stroked the heaving flanks of the elf, and then smiling, leaned in to place a gentle kiss upon Legolas' mouth.

The elf opened his mouth to allow Aragorn entrance, and noted immediately the strange taste.  Realization hit him.  He was tasting himself.  His hands came up to grasp the shoulders of the man, pulling him closer in order to deepen the kiss.  A hard jabbing against his hip reminded him that Aragorn's desires had not yet been satisfied.

One of his hands snaked down between their bodies to grasp the man's hard length, and he began to stroke it, gently at first and then as Aragorn's excitement increased with a little more force.  Aragorn could not stop himself as Legolas stroked him, his body began to thrust into Legolas' hand of its own volition.  His pace increased until he was thrusting in hard short jabs against Legolas and with a shout of release, spilled his seed.

He collapsed backwards, enfolding his mate in his arms and pulling him until the elf was resting across his body.  Legolas lay quietly, ignoring the wet stickiness of their bodies, content to rest his head upon Aragorn's chest and to feel the safety of those strong arms around him.

"We should get up you know," Aragorn said to his consort.

"In a moment Aragorn," the elf murmured sleepily.

"Very well, we shall rest here for but a moment," he stated softly.

~~~~~~~~~~

The pair finally rose a short time later, and after sharing the bath which Aragorn had sent for they went to their separate dressing rooms to clothe themselves.  Legolas did not really understand why it was that he should have his own room with a connecting dressing room, and Aragorn the same, their rooms connected by a private sitting room.

The world of men was full of curious things.  When he had asked Aragorn about this strange room arrangement the man had shrugged and said simply that it was tradition, and sometimes married couples did not marry for love but for state only, and separate bedrooms became a necessity with the couples meeting only for procreation.

Legolas had no intention of living like that.  He had married Aragorn and wanted to share his life with the man, and that included sharing the man's bed.  Legolas found his clothes already put away in his dressing room and he quickly chose a simple outfit before meeting Aragorn back in the sitting room.

"Legolas, would you like to eat in here, or would you prefer to join your father and the others for luncheon?"  Aragorn asked.

"Will there be many joining us?" Legolas enquired.

"Only your father and mine.  The Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn, Mithrandir, Lord Denethor and my cousin Boromir," Aragorn replied.

Legolas thought about it for a moment.  That was not a large number, and it was a party he felt at ease with, besides he wished to see his father and reassure him that things were well.  He knew his father had been concerned over Legolas' issues with intimacy.

"Very well, let us join them for lunch," he decided.

~~~~~~~~~~

Thranduil looked up as his son and Aragorn entered the small dining room reserved for the royal family and their guests.  He released a small silent sigh of relief.  Legolas looked none the worse for wear.  In fact he seemed almost radiant with happiness, his hand entwined with the man's, sharing small private looks.

Legolas immediately spotted his father and quickly walked over pressing a kiss to the king's cheek before he took a seat between both Thranduil and Aragorn.

"I am glad to see you looking well my son," Thranduil softly enough so that only Legolas' ears might hear his words.

"I am very well father.  Aragorn was… very understanding," he said, a soft blush rising on his cheeks.

"Then the choice was well made.  I am very happy for you Legolas, I feel reassured that when I do depart I am leaving you in very good hands," the king stated slightly louder so that Aragorn might also catch his words.

The Prince of men turned to his father in law and softly bowed his head in both acknowledgement of the honor being bestowed upon him, and acceptance of the responsibility for the Elven Prince's well being.

Having settled this the small dining party partook of their lunch, a light conversation flowing gently amongst the occupants. After the remains of the meal had been cleared away Aragorn rose and excused himself and his mate before taking Legolas' hand and leading him from the room.  Once out into the corridor Aragorn began to lead Legolas back towards their rooms.

"Aragorn, where are we going?"  Legolas asked mildly.

Aragorn turned and sent a smoldering look at the elf, which left Legolas with his toes curled and every part of his body burning with a rising heat.

"We are going back to bed my love, we have only a short time in which we will be left uninterrupted, and then after the coronation we must assume the full duties of state.  Would you prefer instead that we did something else?" Aragorn asked.

Legolas took in the dangerous glint in his husband's eyes and decided to tease the man a little for his assumptions.

"Well I had thought that I might start to transplant those gifts of your fathers, they…" Legolas yelped as he was suddenly pulled against a hard and unyielding body.

"Wrong answer my love," Aragorn growled, and Legolas felt the reverberation echo through his own body.  He moaned softly.

"Then let us away my lord," he said softly, his eyes gazing deeply into the ever-changing hues of his mate.

Aragorn needed no second invitation and quickly resumed his path back to their chambers, pulling the object of his desire behind him.

~~~~~~~~~~

Very little changed those following few days.  The princes emerging from their rooms only for meals, and then sometimes electing not to leave at all but to partake of a meal within their chambers.  Yet the real world could not be held back for too long, and it impinged upon their honeymoon in the form of final preparations for the coronation.  Outfits of state had already been created for both Princes, final lessons had been given on the roles they would take, and finally it was time for them to be led to the large throne room.  The room where, upon their ascension as heads of state they would receive visitors and hold court over their people.

On the morning of the coronation the newly married couple arose early partaking of a short repast in their sitting room before adjourning to their dressings rooms to be dressed.  Legolas' father had arrived to help his son ready himself, and Legolas stood as the heavy robes of state were placed upon his being.

In the tradition of men Legolas was to be dressed in the heavily brocaded thick velvet tunic and breeches.  A heavily jewel encrusted belt at his waist.  Knee high leather boots, and finally a long heavy velvet mantle lined with ermine.  His head was unadorned save for the shining length of his own hair.  He wore no jewelry save for the ring that had been placed on his finger by Aragorn.

Satisfied of his readiness Thranduil led his son out to the sitting room to join Aragorn who was already waiting.  Seeing his husband similarly attired Legolas smiled, Aragorn looked even more ill at ease than Legolas felt.

There was a knock at the door and Boromir's head appeared from the opening.  "Are you ready cousin?  They await you in the throne room."

Aragorn nodded.  He took a deep breath and walked over to Legolas.  The elf held out his hand for support and Aragorn took it gratefully.  The doors were opened wide and they made their way downstairs to the massed lords and ladies of Gondor and their honored guests.

The walk from the Royal chambers to the main staircase of the palace was not a long one, and they were soon faced with the long descent down the red-carpeted stairs.  The long train of their mantles behind them were immediately caught up by young children chosen especially for the occasion, and the entourage continued on its way.

The large ornate doors to the throne room stood closed and a guard at their door with a ceremonial scepter.  Upon their arrival he banged three times upon the door with the scepter.  The large doors swung open.

"Who wishes entrance?" Lord Denethor called out across the room.  His voice a stentorian boom.

"Aragorn son of Arathorn," the man Prince called out.  "And my consort Legolas son of Thranduil."

"You may enter," Denethor responded.

The two young princes began their slow march up to the dais upon which Denethor stood.  To either side of him stood a young boy each holding a velvet cushion upon which rested the crown of state which the King of Gondor would wear and the circlet of the King's consort.  As Aragorn and Legolas reached the dais they both took a kneeling position before Gondor's steward.

A long speech then followed intoning the traditional duties of the King and his consort including the laws of succession, and Legolas was reminded that his duty was to provide Aragorn with an heir.

"Aragorn son of Arathorn do you undertake to fulfill your every obligation to the people of Gondor as their King and Sovereign?" Denethor intoned.

"I do," Aragorn responded firmly.

Denethor turned to the boy on his right and took the ornate crown from the cushion.  Holding it high above Aragorn so that everyone gathered might see it, he slowly lowered it until it rested firmly upon the mans head.

"People of Gondor rejoice and bow to your new King, Elessar Telcontar."

There was a mass of cheering as Aragorn stood and everyone in the room, save those of equal status, who bowed their heads instead, swept low in a bow of respect and obedience to their new King.

Aragorn turned back to Denethor.  "I, King Elessar of Gondor, present to you my consort Legolas son of Thranduil, that he might be acknowledged as the Prince Consort of Gondor.  Are there any here who object?"

Legolas held his breath, but who could argue with the tall, proud and regal figure of his husband.

"Then King Elessar, Gondor acknowledges your claim, and grants to Legolas, son of Thranduil, the title of Prince Consort.  Do you acknowledge and understand the responsibility that you undertake?" Denethor addressed Legolas.

"I do," Legolas replied clearly.

Denethor turned to the boy on his left and picked up the smaller crown of gold from its cushion.  As with Aragorn, the crown was held high above the elven prince and slowly lowered it until it rested upon his head.

"Then rise Legolas, Prince Consort of Gondor, and greet your people."

Legolas stood and turned to the face the crowd gathered in the throne room.  He responded to the cheering with a slight smile, before Aragorn took his arm and they made their way to the large balcony that overlooked the streets of Gondor and under which most of the city's residents were gathered.

The large glass doors were opened by two guards, and the newly crowned to greet their people.

Legolas was astounded by the unadulterated joy that seemed to shine on every face below.  His sharp eyes picked out smile wreathing the sea of the faces below him, and his sharp elven hearing caught the sound of his name being called.  He looked upon them all and smiled.  

The smile, a combination of joy and relief seemed to affect everyone, and the crowd were lost to the Elven beauty that was their King's consort.  Their adoration for the Elven Prince was instantaneous.  The people were also happy to see the man they had known for such a short time, but come to admire, crowned as their new King, and felt that this would be the beginning of a new era for the Kingdom of Gondor.

~~~~~~~~~~

After the initial presentation to the people, formalities had to be dealt with and Aragorn and Legolas took their places upon their thrones as each Lord of Gondor came forward to swear fealty to the Royal family.  After that the city was free to celebrate.  As with their wedding the celebrations had lasted well into the night, both within the palace and outside on the streets where large parties were held.  Music and laughter echoed throughout the city.

Within the palace Legolas had been given little time to think, instead being caught up in the meeting and greeting of the Lords and Ladies of Gondor.  What little time he had was spent in contemplation of his responsibility to both Gondor and to Aragorn.  He must conceive an heir.  To do so was to grant stability to the kingdom, a secure line of succession to follow after Aragorn and himself.  As the evening drew on Legolas finally saw his chance to drag Aragorn away from the celebrations.  He moved over to where his husband was talking to Lord Denethor.

"Aragorn my love, it is late, can we not retire now for am I much in need of rest," he said, glancing at Lord Denethor.

"Of course, of course, Aragorn you must take Prince Legolas to your rooms. I forget that you have so recently been recovered from a terrible ordeal your highness.  I must apologize for not letting you away to your rest."  Lord Denethor said.  A flush of guilt staining his features.

Legolas felt both a twinge of repressed fear at the reminder of his capture by the dark sorcerer Verius and Lord Gafen, but he also felt a small twinge of guilt for playing on the feelings of Denethor.

"I am in total agreement with you Lord Denethor, I shall take my beloved spouse at once to bed where he may rest his sweet head," Aragorn said smiling, but Legolas noted the concern that shone in the new king's eyes.

Legolas hid a smile, for he knew that concern would not be there for very long.  Instead he let his features sag a little in an imitation of fatigue and allowed Aragorn to make their goodbyes for the evening, as the retired.

When they reached their rooms Aragorn turned to Legolas.  "Forgive me my love, I did not think that you might tire so quickly today."

Legolas stepped closer, his chest barely touching Aragorn's, he looked at Aragorn's chest as he said softly.  "I may have been a little hasty in declaring myself fatigued."  His gaze lifted and Aragorn spotted the twinkling glint of mischief lighting those blue orbs.

A slow, predatory smile began to grow across his face.  "Is that so my love.  Then perhaps we should think of a way to tire you out so that you will not have deceived poor Lord Denethor."

"Really Aragorn, an elf has a lot of stamina.  Exactly how do you plan to exhaust me that much?"

Aragorn chuckled, a deep reverberating sound that vibrated through his chest.  Legolas felt the vibrations against his own chest and pressed a little closer, wanting to feel more of his husband.

"I think I may have to ravage you my love," he said, and swooped, his lips capturing Legolas' and devouring them.

Legolas moaned, and parted his lips to allow the man entrance.  He was rewarded with the bold strokes of Aragorn's tongue as it met his own, and Legolas held nothing back as met Aragorn stroke for stroke.  Aragorn's arms encircled Legolas bringing him as close to his own body as he could, short of crushing Legolas or the elf climbing into his skin.

They parted for air, and when their mouths met again it was with more tenderness, the initial fires of passion sated somewhat.  But that could not last for long and Aragorn's hands quickly busied themselves with separating Legolas from his clothes. Thankfully the long and heavy mantles had been discarded shortly after the culmination of the coronation.  Still Aragorn felt himself desperate to feel Legolas' skin against his own.

It did not take long for him to strip Legolas of his clothes without parting their lips for too long, and now he began to strip himself of his own vestments, with a lot of eager help from his mate.  Finally they were both naked.  Skin pressed against skin, and matching hardness pressed against each other.

Aragorn looked at his Elven consort with something akin to wonder.  Legolas was beautiful, surely nothing the Valar had created could rival this perfection.  The soft skin of the elf, concealing a lean muscled frame, glowed with its own inner light in the darkness of the room.

"I do not think that I could ever tell you enough that I love you, " he said to the elf.

In response Legolas leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss on Aragorn's mouth.  Aragorn took the elf's hand in his own and drew him over to their bed.  He seemed to read some hidden message in Legolas' eyes and his breath caught in his throat.

"Are you sure?" he asked softly, almost afraid of the answer.

Legolas nodded, and Aragorn smelt a smile break out on his face.  He gently lowered his lover onto the bed.  He took in the quivering frame of the elf and gently placed a kiss on Legolas' mouth, then he moved his attention to kissing his way down the elf's body.

Legolas was nervous.  Since their wedding Aragorn had allowed him to take the lead, doing only what he felt comfortable with, but now tonight, he wanted to go all the way, he wanted to feel Aragorn's body within his own.  He wanted to conceive their child and feel it grow beneath his heart.  All he had to do was relax and enjoy what Aragorn was doing to him.

A startled moan escaped him as he felt Aragorn's mouth engulf his semi hard length.  The feel of suction and the gentle grazing of teeth heightened his excitement, and he felt himself stiffening in the man's mouth.  His back arched of the bed, as while Aragorn's mouth pleasured his member, the man's clever hands fondled the sacs that hung beneath.

Legolas' breath became a pant as Aragorn changed the rhythm and he strained himself trying hard not to thrust into the man mouth and choke him.

"Aragorn," he moaned.

The he stilled.

He felt something touch the entrance to his body, a flashback vision bought back to him the image on an old wrinkled man about to breach his body.

He felt the finger push into his body, and his muscles clenched involuntarily.  The beginnings of panic began to form in his breast as the finger pushed further into his body, and it burned.  He whimpered a little in distress.

Aragorn regretted causing Legolas pain, but it could not be helped whilst the elf was so tense. He knew that his mate would relax if he could just find…

A scream pierced the air as Legolas arched off the bed.  "Aragorn?"  Legolas panted, his eyes glazed in shock.

Aragorn looked up, a smug expression on his face, "Yes my love?"

"What was that?" the elf asked.

"What, this?"  Aragorn asked innocently, and allowed his finger to brush Legolas' sweet spot again.

The elf moaned and shuddered at the sensation that flooded his being, and his softening member hardened instantly, springing up and jutting from its position in the elf's pelvis.  Again Aragorn allowed his finger to brush over the sensitive spot that was common to all males whatever race they hailed from.

Aragorn withdrew his finger, and Legolas moaned in disappointment.

"Hush my love I am just going to stretch you a little to prepare you for me."  Legolas nodded and moaned again in satisfaction this time as Aragorn inserted two fingers at first and then progressing onto three.

Aragorn concentrated on driving Legolas to the point of release, making him wild with excitement, using both his fingers within the elf's body and his other hand stroking the hard member of his mate.  Legolas reached his climax and with a scream his body shuddered as his seed spurted from his body.

When Legolas had come back down to earth he lay still on the bed, a boneless mass of flesh.

"Legolas?  Are you ready my love?  I have tried to help you be as relaxed as you can be," Aragorn said softly.  "But we do not have to do this if you do not wish to."

Legolas bit his lip against the resurgence of tension but nodded. "I am ready. I want to feel you within me," He said with certainty.

Aragorn nodded, and coated his member with the same oil that he had used on his fingers.  He helped Legolas wrap his legs around his waist and then positioned himself at the most vulnerable part of the elf's body.  His eyes rested intently on his mate's and he pushed forward.

Legolas threw his head back and bit his lips and held a moan.  Although his body was relaxed from his orgasm it still hurt a little as the wider girth of Aragorn's manhood sought entrance to his body.  Aragorn had eased the head of his length into Legolas' body and he saw the look of subdued pain on Legolas' face.  He reached forward and entwined his hands with his partners.  Conveying a look of regret Aragorn pushed forward again until his length was completely sheathed by Legolas' body.

He heard the cry of pain escape his love, and felt the tensing of muscles around his length, and moaned as his control wavered.  The sensations were incredible but now he had to comfort Legolas before he could continue.  The elf's face was scrunched up in pain and denial.

"Legolas, Legolas look at me please."

Legolas tried to regain control.  He opened watery eyes and met the look of sorrow and guilt in Aragorn's gaze.

"I am sorry for causing you pain Legolas.  I wish I could have avoided it, but the first time is always worst.  You have to relax now for me my love.  Relax and we can continue.  Or we can stop if you want, but I promise it will get better."

Legolas nodded, and made a conscious effort to relax his body.  He took deep breaths and imagined every muscle in his body relaxing.  Aragorn felt the muscles surrounding his length relax a little and he smiled down at his lover.  Legolas had his eyes closed and a look of fierce concentration was upon his face.  Aragorn leant down and pressed his lips against his mate's.  

The Elven Prince felt the familiar lips against his own and welcomed the touch that didn't bring pain.  He deepened the kiss trying to absorb the warm feelings evoked by Aragorn's body.  Aragorn's hand snaked down between their bodies and grasped Legolas length in his hand before beginning to stroke it into hardness.  

The calloused touch of Aragorn on his body sent shivers of desire once more racing through Legolas' body, the burning sensation within him lessening somewhat, and Aragorn eager to arouse Legolas again concentrated solely on the elf' rigid length, ignoring his own body's demands to move.  Finally he felt that they had reached a point where the pain was overridden by the pleasure Aragorn was giving his mate and he gave a careful thrust, aiming directly for the sweet spot within his lover.

Legolas was caught unawares as Aragorn moved within him.  For a brief moment there was the burning pain but as Aragorn touched a spot within him, he felt as though his whole body had been struck by lightening.  The tingling sensation racing through his nerve ends.  He moaned and pressed back as Aragorn thrust carefully forward again, wanting to feel that sensation again.  

Aragorn smiled with relief as he felt Legolas once more become an active participant and he moved in rhythm with Legolas' needs at first, his hand continuing to stroke the hard length of the elf.  Eventually he was overcome and as his hand pumped furiously so to did his body.  His thrusts within Legolas becoming shorter and harder but each carefully aimed.  

Legolas could not get enough of this feeling and pushed back against Aragorn's thrusts wanting to feel move.  His whole body felt alive as never before and he felt himself nearing the edge.  With one sharp ferocious thrust against his sweet spot Legolas' world dissolved in stars, and he heard Aragorn scream his release, felt the hot spurt of the man's seed within his body, and for a moment, as at their wedding, their minds connected.  

Legolas felt bathed in the love he felt from his husband, and combined with the physical euphoria he was currently feeling he felt as though his spirit had left his body and was now dancing entwined with Aragorn's.

The sensation faded after the moment had past and Legolas lay panting, Aragorn collapsed over him, the man' chest heaving as though he had run a marathon.  After a few moments had passed and Aragorn had sufficiently regained his breath he pushed himself up on to his elbows and slowly and carefully pulled his softening member from his lover.  Legolas winced a little as much abused muscled protested, but he was content to remain where he was lying in Aragorn's arms as the Elven dreamscape called to him.

Aragorn watched as his lover's eyes glazed over and knew that the elf had retreated to the Elven world of dreams to recover his strength, and placing a kiss on Legolas' forehead closed his eyes and let sleep claim him.

~Part Fifteen~

Legolas' eyes focused instantly before he was even aware that he was now awake.  His eyes flicked around the room wondering what was wrong, what had awoken him.  He heard a gentle almost breathy whispering sound, and curiously, snagging a pair of sleeping pants and pulling them on as he moved, he made his way towards the window from where the sound seemed loudest.  He was completely oblivious to his own glowing body.

He pushed open the window and leaned out letting the cool nighttime breeze blow gently across his face bringing with it the whispering sound that had woken him.  The sound struck a chord within him, and although he felt himself become detached he was still acutely aware of everything around him.

He did not struggle against this strange feeling as, almost trance like, he closed the window and left the bedroom and his sleeping lover behind.

~~~~~~~~~~

Aragorn awoke with a start, unsure of what had roused him.  Then he noticed the open door and felt the emptiness of the bed.  Legolas was gone.  Aragorn quickly climbed out of bed grabbing a robe and swiftly donning it as he raced out of the room.  He looked down the corridor and quickly caught a glimpse of a light turning the corner.  He chased after it.  When he turned the corner he was astonished at the sight he beheld.

Legolas was naked save for a loose pair of sleeping trousers, but that wasn't what had caught Aragorn so unawares.  The natural glow that Legolas usually seemed to emit was magnified tenfold.  Indeed Legolas appeared to be glowing intensely, his inner light a beacon for all those who should see him.

Aragorn caught up to his wandering mate and placed his hand on Legolas' shoulder.  He immediately felt a tingling sensation pass from Legolas body through his hand.  He pulled his hand away in surprise.

"Legolas," he called out.  He got no response so he moved round to stand in front of the elf.  He noticed straight away the glazed look in Legolas' eyes.  Was he sleepwalking then?  Aragorn was unsure of what he should do next, he had heard people say that a one who walked their dreams should never be shocked into wakefulness, instead Aragorn thought that he should just follow his erstwhile lover and ensure no harm befell him, besides he could tease Legolas about the whole affair once the elf had awoken.  He fell into step beside the Prince and wondered what their destination would be.   

Legolas was surprised when he felt a hand trying to restrain him.  He did not turn but knew instantly that it was his husband.  He was however helpless to respond, even as Aragorn stepped in front of him trying to slow him down.  He realized that Aragorn was aware that he was not in control of his actions, and his husband decided to follow him instead.  

Along the short walk from their chambers to the gardens they had passed a number of guards and other servants who worked during the night, all had been left mouths agape as their Liege lord and his husband wandered through the palace in the dead of night, the Prince Consort glowing like a star.

He was only a little surprised when they arrived at the gardens, for he knew them to be a source of comfort and serenity for his mate. Legolas lead them to a grove of trees and halted before the oldest tree, it's boughs heavy with age and growth. When they arrived at the palace gardens he instinctively turned towards a grove of trees at the far end of the gardens, Aragorn still following.  When he stopped before the large old tree, he realized what it was that had awoken him.  The tree had been calling to him, speaking its old and almost indistinct language, augmented by the thrumming intelligence of the life within the grove itself.

"Legolas?"  Aragorn again called, hesitantly.

"He cannot hear you," a voice said from behind and Aragorn spun in surprise.  His surprise grew as he faced a large crowd that was gathering. It consisted of every elf currently residing within the city, Thranduil at their head.

"What is wrong with him?"  Aragorn asked, his concern growing with the arrival of the elves.

"There is nothing wrong with him, in fact he is very well." At Aragorn's continued look of confusion Thranduil explained further.  "He has conceived, Aragorn."  Thranduil said gently.

"Conceived?"  Aragorn exclaimed, his eyes grew wide and he turned back to look at the serene face of his beloved, eyes still glazed.  "But how can you tell, it was only his first time last night."

"It is a miraculous thing, so very rare amongst our people.  Since elves are connected to nature, indeed wood elves sharing a special bond with all life, we all knew.  The trees are singing of it."

"But why has he come to this place.  Is he just walking in his sleep, should he be glowing this much?"  Aragorn asked, although he had been raised by the elves in Rivendell he had not during his lifetime seen a pregnant elf, as Thranduil had said, such a thing was a rarity.

"All is well Aragorn, he is glowing simply with the creation of life within his body, it will dim somewhat shortly.  As for why he has ventured outside, watch Aragorn and behold one of the many wonders of the elven world and their symbiotic relationship with nature."  Galadriel explained as she moved forward with her husband Celeborn and Lord Elrond to stand beside Thranduil.

Aragorn turned back and his jaw dropped in astonishment.  The boughs of the tree were bending, the loud creaking a testament to the effort involved.  And yet as they bent they joined together and formed a small bower.  Legolas stepped forward and climbed into the bower.  As he sat cross-legged, still oblivious to the world around him the boughs again began to move, the smaller branches of the tree coming up and around Legolas to gently encase him.

~~~~~~~~~~

Legolas watched still in detached awareness as a bower formed, and knew with his whole being, that his place was within the bower.  Without fear or hesitation he stepped forward.  As the bower cocooned him he felt a pang of sorrow for the anxiety he was causing Aragorn, and noted the arrival of the elves.  He was glad that Elrond and his father were there to comfort his husband, and his eyes glazed over again as they did in sleep.  This time however he did not retreat to the elven dreamscape, and instead his consciousness was submerged in a link formed between the great tree and himself.  Then the tree explained why this was happening.

Had Legolas been capable, he would have gasped in shocked awareness as the tree encouraged him to use the link to gently touch the new life form that now grew within his body.  As Legolas marveled at this turn of events the tree explained further to him.  This was a natural event.  When an elf conceived their instinct was to deepen their bond with nature, and over time, with the elves awakening the trees to language and intelligence the bond had evolved.  Now this ancient tree stood as the focus for the power of nature itself, and through it Legolas was connected to every living thing around him.

Now when an elf conceived nature itself took part.  A bond was formed within the first few hours of conception a deep bond that fed strength into the elf and allowed a new bond to tentatively form between the unborn life and nature itself.  Legolas himself had never known an elf that had conceived during his lifetime, and his father had not explained this aspect of elven nature, yet nothing about this drew fear from him.  Instead he felt content and comforted by the old tree and he allowed his consciousness to submerge deeper into the link.

~~~~~~~~~~

Aragorn rushed forward a word of protest on his lips at seeing his lover appear to be swallowed by the tree but a strong hand on his shoulder restrained him.

"Peace my son," Elrond said.  "This is the natural way of things, more so for the wood elves.  The tree offers him its support and a part of its very essence.  It is meant to strengthen the relationship between the elf and nature, and also to begin the bond anew with the new life that has begun with Legolas.  This tree is the oldest within Minas Tirith it will act as the focal point for all natural life as the plants and animals around us share themselves with the Prince."

"How long will he remain thus?"  Aragorn asked, still finding this so very hard to comprehend.

"It is hard to say.  Some remain for only a day or two, I hear that wood elves have been known to stay within for up to 5 days after conception."

"Legolas' mother remained within her bower for six nights," Thranduil offered.

The Mirkwood king moved forward and sat himself down on the grass before the tree, and as though this were a sign the gathered elves began to spread themselves out sitting in small groups amongst the grove, their faces alight with anticipation as they whispered soft words to each other.

Aragorn felt helpless, this was something completely new to him, something over which he had no control.  He took a seat on the ground next to Thranduil and was joined by his father.  Things had happened so quickly.  Last night they had only just overcome Legolas' fears with regards to taking Aragorn within himself, but to find that the union had already created a new life was something Aragorn was having trouble with assimilating.

A soft singing began from a group sitting near him and before long all the elves had raised their voices in a song of celebration.  The songs continued into what remained of the night and as the sun rose, the other occupants of the palace awoke to a surprise.  Word passed around quickly that something had occurred with the Prince Consort, now all the elves were gathered in the gardens along with the King.  Many of the bolder Lords and Ladies made their way out to the gardens to be confronted with the sight of many elves seated along the floor of the grove, and at the centre a large tree around which sat their King and the Prince's own father.  But where was the Prince himself?

Upon arising Lord Denethor had been made aware of this strange situation, and grumbling to himself about the oddity of elves he called his elder son Boromir to his side and they made their way out into the grove to deal with this matter.

His face masked his surprise as he too saw all of the elves that had come to Minas Tirith as guests seated amongst the grove and he made his way to the centre as he spotted King Elessar.

"Your Majesty?" he called out.  Aragorn turned and spotted Denethor.  "Your Majesty, what is going on?  Where is Prince Legolas?"

"He is within the tree," Aragorn said, his gaze turning back to the large and old tree in the centre of the grove.

"In the tree, what do you mean?  Should I call for the guards, if the Prince has become trapped we can cut down the tree and…"

"No!"  Aragorn's shout startled the old lord.  "This tree cannot be cut down.  When I say he is within the tree Lord Denethor, I mean that the tree has cocooned him.  It is an elvish thing," he said with a helpless shrug of his shoulders.

"But why on earth would he allow the tree to cocoon him?"  Boromir queried, the confusion of the two men growing by the minute.

"Because he is with child," Aragorn said softly.

Boromir turned and looked at his father in surprise.  The old steward looked astonished for a moment, but then a large grin spread across his face.

"So soon?  But that's wonderful news your Majesty," Denethor stated.  "We must make an announcement to the people and…"  Denethor's voice trailed off as he noticed movement amongst the trees.

Slowly a small rabbit hopped forward, making its way without fear through the gathering of elves.  It moved just in front of the tree and sat there.  It was shortly joined by a small red fox, which sat beside the rabbit in front of the tree, making no move to attack its usual prey.

The elves smiled knowingly but the men had never seen anything so strange before.  Denethor lowered his old body down to the ground and took a seat by Aragorn, Boromir joined him, and the gathered party watched as over the following few hours a large assortment of wildlife made their way to the grove and sat before the cocooned bower that contained the Prince Consort of Gondor.

The mortal observers were shocked anew at each creature that approached the tree and sat, as if on guard around the ancient sentinel, but wonder at the very nature of nature could not hold back the pressing nature of palace life and soon messengers began to arrive with the pressing engagements and tasks that had to be carried out.

"Aragorn, you are King now, you must see to your peoples needs.  His Highness' Father can stand watch until you are able to return," Denethor urged again as the messages from the palace became more pressing.

"I cannot leave him, what if something was to happen.  What if he needs me?" Aragorn threw a helpless look at the old man.  "Please Denethor, can you not assist until Legolas has emerged?"

"We do not even know when that will be Sire.  Very well," Denethor sighed in defeat.  "I shall continue to carry out my duties as I did before your coronation, at the same time an announcement will need to be made to the people so that they do not worry at their new King's lack of involvement in the affairs of his kingdom," Denethor said dryly.  "I daresay though that they will be comforted with the news that the Prince Consort already carries Gondor's new heir."

Aragorn nodded distractedly, his attention focused unwaveringly on the tree holding his mate within it.

"I shall send down some clothes for you too Sire, you may have some Elven blood but you are not immune to the cold as they are."

Aragorn nodded again and Denethor walked off muttering to himself, throwing one last look back and shaking his head in bewilderment at the strangeness of things.

Aragorn remained seated at his vigil along with all the elves.