~Part Sixteen~

Aragorn's eyes began to droop as tiredness overtook him.  It had been a long day and he had read through most of the documents Denethor had bought to him for his review, some to be signed and sealed.  A rustle from the tree before him brought him swiftly back to alertness, and he noticed from the corner of his eyes that Thranduil had diverted his attention from his conversation with Lord Celeborn and was now staring intently at the tree ahead.

Legolas felt his connection to the tree begin to dissipate although it did not leave him entirely.  He blinked as his eyes focused on the world before him once more.  He saw the cocooning branches of the tree, and before his eyes they began to move and unfold gently.

The first thing he saw as the branches lifted was his husband and his father sitting before the tree, their gazes fixed intently on him.  Thranduil was smiling with a look of quiet happiness and Aragorn simply looked relieved.  Legolas then noticed all the other elves and his eyes widened in astonishment at the large congregation.

When the upper branches had finally resumed their original positions Legolas moved to stand so that the lower branches could also resume their positions.  Aragorn immediately rushed forward to assist his bemused lover.  Legolas allowed Aragorn to lend his strength as his body, slightly stiff from his former position protested slightly at the sudden movement.

Finally he was standing and Legolas glanced back at the tree as the boughs unfurled and stretched back towards the sky.  He stood with Aragorn's arm around his waist offering comfort and support, and Legolas looked out amongst the elves taking in their looks of awe and joy.

"Everybody knows?" he asked Aragorn.

His husband nodded but it was his father that answered.  "Legolas, every elf within the city knew that you had conceived, the trees told us all and they have no doubt spread their news across the many forests of this world.  Without a doubt every elven realm knows now that you are with child."

Legolas just shook his head in bemusement.  "So quickly, for how long was I cocooned?" he asked.

"You have been in there for seven long days my love.  Days when I wondered if you were to emerge at all."  Aragorn said, his arm tightening slightly around the slender elven waist.

The elven prince’s eyes widened in shock.  "Seven days.  It did not feel so long as the tree and I communed."

"Truly it was an amazing thing to see, will it be the same every time you are with child?"  Aragorn asked concern laced with anxiety in his voice.

"I think so, yes.  The spirit of the tree explained much to me of the ways of an elven pregnancy.  I know that when it is time for this child to be born I will again return to the tree.  It must be so for the spirit of the tree acts as a focal point for a connection to be formed between myself and the very essence of nature.  When the child is born it too will be joined with this essence, so that understanding of the way of certain things will be known to it."  Aragorn frowned.  "It is the way with elves my love.  Without our bond with nature we are as nothing, leaves floating on the air, to be an elf is to have that connection, it was this way when I was born although I have only the slightest memories of my birth and time within the nest of my mother's birthing bower."

"But this child is not fully elven Legolas, what would happen if you were not within the trees bower when the time comes?" Aragorn asked.

"He and the child would most likely perish," Thranduil cut in sharply.  "It is necessary, Legolas must be within his bower when the time comes.  He could not withstand the birthing process otherwise."

"But how, and why is it necessary, what will occur within the bower?" Aragorn questioned further.  His need to know was great but even more he wished to understand the implications for his mate.  He wished no harm to come to his beloved.

"When an elven child is brought into the world it is very different from the ways of men.  We do not provide milk to our children through our bodies, instead at the moment of birth, before even, the elven parent provides his or her strength to allow the child to be born.  It is perhaps worse for a male elf.  A channel is formed from the womb at the time of birth to allow an exit for the child, but this takes much energy, as does the healing of it afterwards.  Within the bower the focal spirit will provide energy that comes from the life around them which supplements the elf's own strength.  This is the only way to ensure a safe delivery."

Aragorn nodded, understanding coming to him.  "Then when Legolas is close to his time he shall not move far from the palace, he shall remain close to his bower."

Legolas had remained quiet during this explanation.  The spirit of the tree had already explained this much to him, but he did not like to see the worry on Aragorn's face, and attempted to change the subject.

"Perhaps my love we could retire to our rooms that I might change from these pants.  I have been wearing them for some time," he said lightly, then his stomach rumbled loudly.

"Perhaps I should also send to the palace cook to provide a large repast, for you have not eaten in this time as well."  Legolas smiled and nodded, and Aragorn, his arm still around Legolas' waist steered them around to face the palace.

They took a step forward and Legolas again became aware of the regard of his people.  They were all looking at him with eyes filled with wonder, as though his coming was as the footsteps of hope.  And perhaps it was Legolas mused.  So few elven children were born now, and many of his people were leaving these shores, traveling across the sea to the undying lands.  Any new life was considered miraculous and closely guarded by the elven folk as a whole.

Legolas pushed these thoughts away whilst smiling at the gathered elven folk who made room for he and his husband to pass, and instead concentrated on thoughts of a change of clothing and a nice filling meal.

~~~~~~~~~~

As they reached their chambers Legolas allowed Aragorn to take over issuing instructions to their servants to draw a bath and lay out fresh clothes for the Prince Consort, whilst at the same time sending word to the kitchens that a meal was to be prepared for the Royal Couple and their guests.

Once it was ready Legolas sank into the large copper bathtub that sat in the middle of the bathing chamber.  The warm water came up to his chin as he relaxed back soothing away the aches his enforced stillness of the past seven days left behind.  He closed his eyes and sank further into the tub, his long blond tresses floating around him in the heated liquid.  The door opening alerted him to the fact that he was not alone and he opened his eyes to see Aragorn striding into the room, pulling his clothes off as he went.

Legolas pulled his legs up in bemused surprise as his husband climbed into the tub with him.  Water sloshed over the sides and ran to the drain in the centre of the room.

"Now this is much better," Aragorn said with a smile of satisfaction on his face.  "Let us always bathe together," he then added almost as an afterthought.

Legolas laughed softly, his chuckle a musical sound in the silence of the room and Aragorn felt his heart swell with love for this magnificent creature before him.  The young king held out his hand to Legolas who took it without hesitation then he tugged the elf over until Legolas sat between his legs, his back against Aragorn's chest and his head resting on the man's shoulder.

Aragorn shifted a little to allow Legolas to relax more comfortably against him, and the elf started a little at the hard member that was pressing against his backside.  Aragorn picked up a washcloth from a side table, and using the soap worked up a lather before he gently began to wipe the cloth down across his lover's chest.

Legolas sighed appreciatively as Aragorn stroked the soft cloth over his body, cleansing away the accumulated dirt of the last seven days.  Then Aragorn put aside the washcloth and began to cleanse the elf's hair.  First soaking the golden tresses, then rubbing in soap to work up a luxurious fruity smelling lather.  Legolas allowed his eyes to close whilst Aragorn's fingers worked magic as they massaged the soap into his hair.  Finally, when Aragorn was satisfied that the golden length had been cleansed enough he gently rinsed away the lather until the hair fell in a wet curtain down the back of his elven husband.

Legolas smiled lazily to himself as he let the young King take care of him.  Aragorn twisted a little so that he could bend his head around to claim the elf's lips with his own, and Legolas moaned, desire awakening within him.

With one hand wrapped around Legolas' waist the other delved further under the water until it came upon the object of its search.  Legolas arched suddenly, moaning loudly into Aragorn's mouth as the man allowed his hand to encircle the elf's member.  The semi rigid shaft quickly hardened under his ministrations, and as his hand stroked the length of hard flesh his own hips pushed forward grinding against Legolas' body.

The Elven Prince writhed in frustration as Aragorn teased him, with first gentle strokes and then firm tugs that seem to send bolts of energy along his spine, making his back arch away from the man beneath him whilst at the same time pressing his buttocks harder against Aragorn's own length, thus in turn teasing the man.

But this could not last for long, both were filled with much desire from having spent so much time apart after their recent bonding, and it was not long before the teasing turned to serious pleasure giving and receiving and both came hard together.

~~~~~~~~~~

The couple had dried themselves quickly after stepping out of the bath and they dressed quickly in simple garments made for comfort above pomp and ceremony.  They then made their way swiftly down to the private dining room to join their families and guests for a meal.

They took their seats, Thranduil on Legolas' right and Elrond at Aragorn's left.  Then around the table sat Denethor and Boromir, Galadriel and Celeborn.  The meal was served soon after the royal couple had taken their seats, and Legolas breathed in appreciatively at the enticing smells coming from the platter before him.  He did not take long to begin placing food on his own plate.  Aragorn and the other occupants of the room smiled in indulgent amusement as the young elf took food from almost every platter heaping it onto his own plate.

He suddenly seemed to notice the silence in the room and looked up warily to see every eye upon him.  He felt a blush steel across his features.

"What?" he asked defensively.

The room broke out in to chuckles and laughter, and Legolas turned hurt accusing eyes towards his father and Aragorn.

"Peace Legolas," Aragorn said smiling and taking Legolas' hand to place a kiss upon it.  "We were merely enjoying your enjoyment of the food."

Legolas smiled wryly.  "You would also be enjoying the food the way I am had you not eaten in a sevenight."

"True," Aragorn conceded, "In fact I daresay I would be somewhat less particular about my food than you are even now."

Legolas looked down at his plate, and then at the spread before him and smiled.  He was above all else an elf, and his culinary tastes ran to the leafy and well cooked items before him.

Aragorn shook his head and began to place food onto his own plate, and gradually the room settled into the contented silence of those eating and enjoying both the food and each other's company.

After a while of steady munching Legolas looked down at his plate in dismay, it was empty. He looked at the table.  The platters were near enough empty.  He then looked over with interest at the plate of his husband, and as Aragorn conversed with his foster father and Lord Denethor Legolas speared some food from the man's plate before placing it on his own.  He happily tucked into this new supply of food.

Aragorn turned back to his plate about to spear a slice of the fine fowl on his plate, only to find it had disappeared.  He looked around in confusion, before spotting the well-cooked bird sitting on the plate of his beloved.  He narrowed his eyes at the oblivious elf, who continued to tuck into his food, or rather Aragorn's food with gusto.

"If you continue to eat this way my love, we may have to roll you back upstairs," he drawled.

Legolas turned caught with the fowl half way to his mouth, his eyes widened in surprise as he faced his husband.  He looked back at the fowl before reluctantly placing it back on his plate.

"But Aragorn, I am hungry.  I have not eaten in some time, and there is the baby to think of also.  I am now it's source of food, and I must take care of myself," Legolas said earnestly, a look of innocence plastered across his face thought the suspicious mind of the king.

As Aragorn continued to stare at the elf, Legolas suddenly pouted and pushed the plate towards the man.  "Fine, very well, if you will do nothing but stare at me in such a fashion you may have your food back."

He sat back, stiff with arms folded across his chest and a mutinous expression on his face, and Aragorn again was overcome with emotion for this wonderful creature he had taken to husband.  His heart softened, and he took a piece of the cooked meat before moving closer to the elven prince and placing the meat gently at his lips.

Legolas turned to look at the man, and as he met Aragorn's gaze his heart clenched at the fierce emotion displayed in his regard.  Wordlessly he opened his mouth and allowed Aragorn to place the meat inside.  He chewed the meat and swallowed, and held Aragorn's gaze as the man placed another piece of meat at his lips.

Again the elf opened his mouth, but this time as the meat was placed inside Legolas dipped his head forward slightly taking more of Aragorn's fingers into his mouth as well.  His tongue stroked the digits teasingly. Aragorn made no move to pull them free and Legolas was encouraged by the widening of the king's eyes to suck at the fingers.

A sudden loud coughing broke their concentration and they turned as one to look at Lord Elrond who was making the loud coughing sounds, and then at the rest of their guests who were staring at them in amusement.  The both flushed with embarrassment at having been caught in so intimate an act.

"Perhaps you can continue your meal later," Celeborn said pointedly, sharing a remembering look with his own wife.

Aragorn laughed and nodded, and the meal wound down with the guests retiring to their own activities.  The royal couple were left alone and they made their way back to their rooms with a mutual haste that needed no explaining.

~Part Seventeen~

The following day the first court of the new King was held.  The large audience room had been prepared, smaller copies of the thrones from the main throne room had been placed on the dais ready to receive their applicants.

Twice a week this court was held so that any citizen of the kingdom might plead their case or grievances before the King himself.  Once every new moon a special court was held for all those held within the city prisons, that they might appeal against their sentence.  This was a gamble for although in some cases the sentence might be lessened or withdrawn there was also a chance that the sentence might be lengthened.

Legolas had never presided over such a court within his father's realm.  The elves were free to air their grievances without the need of a special court.  Indeed, grievances within his father's kingdom were few and far between.  The residents of Mirkwood loving their king, who was to them fair and just.

Aragorn had been trained for this situation both by Lord Elrond, who had studied something of the legal systems of men and by Lord Denethor.  He felt somewhat more prepared than his consort when the first appellants approached.

"My Lord, this is Tomas Colwyn.  He is here to ask for a reduction in the taxes he and the people of his village are currently paying."

"Why do you ask for such a reduction?"  Aragorn asked the bowing and aged figure before him.

"Sire, we are tenants of Lord Marlen.  The taxes we are asked to pay are beyond the means of many of us.  In order to pay these taxes we are forced to go without things like food.  Our people are starving.  However my lord it is not just the taxes.  Lord Marlen neglects his duty as landowner.  Many of our properties have been without maintenance for many harvests."

Aragorn looked pensive.  "Very well Master Colwyn, your complaint has been recorded and will be investigated, you have my word."  Aragorn directed his sincere and commanding gaze at the man before him, and the humble figure seemed to straighten a little at the honesty he read in the King's eyes.

"Thank you my Lord," he said simply and left.

And so began the first official court of King Elessar.  Many came before him, some with minor complaints that seemed to be on the surface, very petty however Aragorn promised them all that they would be investigated, and should any justness be proven to their claims then recompense would be made.

Legolas for the most part remained silent during this court, simply taking in the process that he might better understand it in the future.  However this was a new moon and following the civil cases, the appealing prisoners from within the city were next brought forward.

The Prince Consort looked with interest over the small assortment of men standing before the royal couple.  Their hands and legs chained to prevent quick movement by the prisoners.  The elf found himself wondering as he looked at each, what crimes they had been convicted of.  One in particular struck him as unusual.  This man stood proud and tall, the shackles attached to him seemed not to bother him, yet this was not to say he was arrogant.  In fact Legolas was surprised at how innocent this man appeared to be, and he waited until the man was pushed forward by the guards, and pushed to his knees before the royal couple.

"Your Majesties, this is Ebwil Crane, he has been convicted of the crime of theft.  He has served one year of his sentence and has four more to serve.  Prisoner state your appeal," the guard intoned.

The man seemed to pause for a moment and his gaze took in both man and elf before him, seeming to measure them.

"My lords, I do not believe that I was justly convicted of this crime."

"What is it that you are accused of stealing?" Aragorn asked.

"I am accused of stealing a necklace Sire," the man answered.

"Did you steal it?" the King questioned.

The man held Aragorn's gaze as he replied.  "Yes, I did."

Aragorn sighed, "Then I fear that…"

"Why?"  Legolas interrupted swiftly before his husband could pass judgment.  Something about this man's crime did not sit well with the elf.

The intense gaze shifted its focus from the King towards the Prince Consort and a small lessening of the tightness around the man's lips could be seen.  "Your Highness, I was a tenant of Lord Marlen.  My family had lived on that land for fifteen generations, and the necklace was an heirloom passed down through my family.  When the current Lord Marlen took over the estate the taxes were raised.  We could not afford to pay them, and eventually the Lord's bailiffs came to call upon us.  They took everything of value from our home, and ripped the necklace from around my wife's throat."

"So you stole back the necklace?" Legolas asked softly.

Ebwil nodded.  Legolas turned to face his husband.  "This is related to the earlier matter, my love, this is not the first instance of Lord Marlen's alleged severity towards his tenants that we have heard this morning," he said softly to Aragorn.

The king nodded.  "You are right, as always, my love, this matter bears much investigation."  Aragorn turned back to the prisoner before him.  "Master Crane I cannot repeal your sentence without further investigation.  But I promise that this matter will be investigated thoroughly, and should it come to light that you were wronged, your sentence will be repealed, and recompense will be made both to you and your family.  But first, tell me, where is your family now?"

"Sire, they are currently staying with my wife's sister.  My family was evicted from our land when I was sentenced."

"I see, then we shall see to it, that they are given accommodation of their own.  Scribe please record that."

For the first time, the man before them seemed to crumble, tears came to his eyes.  "Thank you Sire.  I ask nothing but the chance for justice for myself, but for my family I would sacrifice even that."

Aragorn smiled softly, "Go now, and know that this matter will be treated as urgent."

Ebwil bowed low to the royal couple before being led away by the guards.

The next prisoner was brought forward to plead his case.  This man couldn't have been more different to Ebwil.  He bowed obsequiously tugging at his forelock in a show of deference.

"Your Highnesses, please hear the appeal of Ifan Crislen.  He has been convicted of the crime of murder. He has served six months of this sentence and has fifteen years more remaining. Prisoner state your appeal." The guard again called out.

"Your Majesties, I am not guilty of this crime.  T'is true that I did kill this man, but it was accidental and in self defense."

"Why were you defending yourself from this man?" Aragorn questioned, not liking this man at all.

"I do not know sire, his attack was unprovoked," the man replied groveling further at the foot of the dais.

"You lie!" Legolas exclaimed.  He had taken an instant dislike to this man and his obvious attempts to ingratiate himself, yet he had listened with an open mind, for this man, unlikable though he was may have been innocent of his crimes.  But then as Legolas watched closely he saw the sweat break out upon the man's face.  Saw the eyes as they flickered around the room slyly, judging the reactions of those around him.  But most telling of all was the jumping pulse Legolas could see in the man's throat.  Now he let his intense gaze fall upon the man who could not hold it, and bowed his head.

"Is this true?" Aragorn demanded. "Herald, where was this man when he was alleged to have killed his victim?"

"Sire, the record states that this man before you was found in the home of the victim, in what appears to have been an interrupted burglary," the herald stated, referring the to the previous case notes.

Aragorn turned back to the now cowering man before him.  "Then tell us Master Crislen what really happened.  You broke into the house of your victim and when he interrupted you, you fought perhaps?"

Ifan raised his head, and Legolas nearly gasped aloud at the spite and menace in the twisted features before him.  Ifan's silence was telling, and Aragorn gestured towards the guards to come forth and collect their charge. "Your sentence will not be repealed Master Crislen, in fact, you will not leave jail in 15 years, you will remain a guest of the city's prisons until your natural death.  Yours is a most vile nature, to kill a man is no small thing, but then to come before your King and lie makes this matter all the more worse, and betrays much of your character.  I would not feel myself to be a good king if I allowed you, and those of your ilk to walk the streets."  Aragorn's anger filled gaze then shifted to the prisoners waiting their turn to plead their cases.  "Take note now, for any that come before me and lie will face my wrath, and bring down upon their heads only more punishment.  Now guards, take this foul creature from my sight."

Ifan Crislen was dragged from the floor by the guard screaming and cursing.  Legolas' sharp elven hearing caught both his own and Aragorn's name spoken in some promise of revenge, but did not fear this man who was to spend the rest of his life behind bars.

The other prisoners, now warned by the sentence of Ifan came forward more hesitantly to plead their cases, some not at all, obviously thinking better of what they had wanted to say to the King.  The majority of the prisoners found no change in their sentence, some few had their sentences lessened, but no more were dealt with more harshly, and so the first court of the King and his Prince Consort came to an end.

~~~~~~~~~~

After the court session had ended, Aragorn was called away to meet with his ministers who were to report to him on the state of the kingdom.  Legolas smiled in amusement and decided now would be a good time for him to plant the gifts of Lord Elrond into the gardens of the palace.  Once the plants had been brought to him outside Legolas stood for a moment, trying to decide where he should plant everything.  The day was beautiful, the sky a deep blue, and the sun shining down upon the gardens, and Legolas was very glad to be outside.

Looking down at the sapling that sat in its wooden basket filled with dirt, Legolas smiled.  He knew exactly where to put this.  He lifted the basket with ease and walked over to the spot he had chosen.  Placing the basket down Legolas used a small spade to begin digging a space in which to place the sapling.

He sang as he worked, singing to both the earth and the sapling, telling them of the union they would create.  Then was the hole was dug he gently placed the sapling within it.  Covering the roots with the remaining dirt, he gently patted down the earth and watered the ground around the newly planted sapling well.  He continued to sing to the plant, telling it of it's new home, and how it would grow tall and strong amongst the other plants, and before him the sapling seemed to stand taller.

He sensed movement at the edge of the garden and he turned to look.  It was a young girl.  She stood watching him, and as she saw that he had noticed her she turned to leave.

"Do not go," Legolas called out instinctively.

The lady paused in mid flight and turned around to face the elf who quickly approached her.

"Who are you?" Legolas asked when he finally stood before the girl.  Now that she stood before him, he could see that she was actually a woman, not a girl.  She looked to be in her middle twenties, quite mature by the standards of men.  But she was a slight creature, her head reaching only as far as Legolas' shoulders.  She had long chestnut brown hair that fell to her waist in a riot of curls, and curious green eyes looked up at him from a face that was lightly sprinkled with freckles.

"I am Lady Garret, Your Highness," she said softly, and belatedly curtsied before him.

Legolas smiled gently.  "You are at court with your husband?" he enquired, knowing that in the ways of men, a young lady of noble birth was unlikely to remain single after reaching her majority.

A shadow seemed to pass over her features.  "Nay Sire, I am a widow.  My husband died three years past.  I come to court only upon the insistence of my mother, who tells me that I should play my part in court politics since I now own my husbands estate.  I would much rather be at home though," she added honestly.

"Where is your home my lady?" he asked.

"The estate is in Southern Gondor my lord.  A border estate set between Lord Marlen and Lord Gafen," she explained, missing the shudder that racked the elven frame at the memories aroused by that name.  Legolas forced himself to pay attention to the lady before him though.  Her face animated and her eyes sparkling as she told him of the gardens that she tended at her home, the hills and forests that lay near.  The places she loved to explore."

Legolas smiled at her enthusiasm.  "Your husband must have been a very lenient man, for I know it is the way of men to want to keep their ladies close at hand, to protect them I believe."

Curiously the elf noticed again that a shadow seemed to pass over her face at the mention of her husband.

"He was not Sire, he was as many of the men you describe are, however we were married for but a year before he passed on," she said, and wondered at what it was about the Prince Consort that made her reveal more than she had to anyone else since she had been married.

Legolas liked this young lady, and he took her by the arm and led her back towards his selection of plants.  "Please Lady Garret, you do not need to keep calling me by my title.  Legolas is sufficient."

Lady Garret halted and her eyes widened in shock, "But Sire, it is not correct that we should be on such intimate terms.  What would the other Lords say, what would the King say?"

Legolas laughed at her expression, "Lady Garret, it matters not what anyone other than I think of the matter.  It is after all my name and I am free to give it to whomever I choose.  But if you must, look at it another way.  Think of the displeasure you will cause me if you continue to call me Sire."

This last evoked a laugh from the Lady and Legolas was enchanted by the musical sound.  "Now come, would you like to assist me in planting the gifts my husband and I received from Lord Elrond?  Although I fear to dirty your very fine gown," Legolas said frowning as he took in the fine silks of the dress.

"Sir…Legolas," she amended as she saw his frown, "I would very much like to assist you in your garden, please pay no attention to this dress, I fear I have very many more like it, but what about your own clothes, they are very fine to be messing in the dirt, perhaps you should change?"

Legolas frowned and looked down at his own clothes.  "I fear I too have very many more of these clothes, besides I am Prince Consort, who would dare to question me upon my clothes?" he added, smiling, which made them both laugh.

"Very well Legolas, but please since we are now on such familiar terms you must call me also by my given name, Amelia."

"Amelia," Legolas repeated softly, "A very fine name, but come, my plants are calling to me to bury their roots into this rich soil."  Legolas took Amelia's hand and tugged her along after him.

"They call to you?" Amelia questioned.

"Indeed, for I am an elf, and we are creatures of nature.  We hear the songs of every living creature, for they speak to us as they speak to no others."

Amelia simply nodded, knowing that the elves were a very different race and if they said they could hear the plants talk then who was she to argue.

~~~~~~~~~~

As dusk began to settle over the gardens a squire ventured into the gardens to pass the message along to the Prince Consort that dinner was to be served shortly.  Legolas acknowledged the message and rose, extending a hand to help Amelia up from her place on the ground.

"Come Amelia.  We must prepare ourselves for dinner.  We are to dine in the main banquet hall this evening."

Amelia nodded with a look of disgruntlement, and they made their way together back into the palace.  They went their separate ways thought to go to their own chambers to prepare for dinner.

Legolas walked into the sitting room of the royal chambers, and saw Aragorn seated at the large desk in the corner reading something.  The man looked up as the door opened and smiled in bemusement, at the sight of his husband clad in the fine cloth of this morning, now covered with dirt, a smudge across his forehead.  Aragorn rose to greet his lover and enveloped him in a huge hug and taking the soft elven lips with his own.

"I see I do not need to ask what you have done with your afternoon," Aragorn said grinning.

Legolas looked down at himself ruefully and laughed. "No I think not.  And since dinner will be ready soon, I do not have time to bathe."

Aragorn's eyes lit up with interest.  "A bath.  Hmmm, I think as King I do not have to attend my own banquets on time.  We could make time to bathe my love."

Legolas laughed lightly, but a shiver of desire traveled through him at the intense look in the man's eyes.  "Aragorn, we cannot do that.  I shall have to suffice with a basin and a change of clothes.  Besides today I have made a new friend, and I wish for you to meet her," the elf said firmly.

Aragorn frowned. "Should I be jealous already my love?"

Legolas rolled his eyes, and went to his own dressing room to get himself ready for the evening meal.

~~~~~~~~~~

As was customary, the residents and the guests at the palace did not take their seats until the Royal couple had taken theirs, so everyone stood waiting as Aragorn entered the room with Legolas at his side.  They took their seats and with a murmur everyone else took theirs, conversation beginning almost immediately.

At the high table Legolas had asked for a seat to made available opposite his own in between Boromir and Lord Celeborn, and Legolas noted the hesitant arrival of Amelia to the banquet room.  He saw her move towards her customary place with her mother on one of the lower tables, and then gesturing subtly he alerted the squires that she was to be brought before them.

As the squires stopped her, Lady Garrett looked around with surprise.  The room became more hushed as people took note of the squire guiding the young woman up to the Royal table.  There was a hint of fear and panic as Amelia was bought to stand before the Royal couple, which was allayed only a little by the mischievous grin on Legolas' face.

"Lady Garrett," Aragorn said, and Amelia's attention was drawn back to the King.  "It appears in you I have a rival for my husbands affections," the King said with a stern visage.

Amelia swallowed and her eyes became almost impossibly wide.

"Aragorn, stop teasing," Legolas said lightly slapping the arm of his mate.

Aragorn laughed and patted Legolas' hand.  "Pray forgive me Lady Garrett, we wished only to invite you to dine with us.  See there is a seat available."

The squires led Amelia to the vacant seat but were brushed aside by Boromir who stood to hold out her chair for her.

"You look very lovely tonight Amelia," he said softly, but Legolas' sharp hearing caught the words, and he took note of the dazed expression that Boromir wore, and the flushing cheeks of Amelia.  The elven prince smiled softly to himself.  He would discuss this later with Aragorn.

The noise in the hall soon rose again, with many of the gathered nobles speaking of Lady Garrett's seating at the high table.  Many wondering just what she had done to curry such favor.  Seated amongst such highborn people Amelia was at first very intimidated but everyone went out of their way to include her in conversation.

"So Lady Garrett, I heard that you spent all afternoon working with my husband in the gardens, you must have a deep love of nature for you to be able to endure his company for so long," Aragorn said to Amelia, sending a teasing look to his husband.

Amelia laughed and Legolas pinched Aragorn lightly.  "How do you know that she was not planning to steal me away from you, whilst you closet yourself all day with your ministers?" Legolas asked his eyebrows arched high.

"Then I am afraid Lady Garrett that I would be forced to chop off your head for no one is allowed to steal my love from me," Aragorn replied but still looking at Legolas.

"Please Lady Garrett do forgive my foster son, for such behavior is often customary amongst elven newlyweds," Lord Elrond said loudly and the couple looked over at him in barely disguised mirth.

"I am afraid that my foster father has forgotten what it feels like to be a newlywed.  His own wedding was millennia ago."  Aragorn confided.  "You know of course that age can have an effect on the memory."

"I think that age has indeed affected my foster son, for he has clearly forgotten the punishment he received for disrespecting his elders," Elrond said knowingly, and Aragorn flushed deeply, his mouth staying silent.  The older folks at the table laughed delightedly at this defense of their age.

"I shall have to remember that for when Aragorn disrespects me," Legolas said thoughtfully, which sent peals of laughter around the table again, and leaving Legolas with a very vengeful husband.

"We shall see my love, who shall punish who.  Besides, you are in a delicate condition, it would not do for you to exert yourself in anyway."  Aragorn said smugly.

Legolas painted an innocent expression on his face, and then he spoke lowly, his words intended for Aragorn's ears alone. "Perhaps then I should have my bath alone and retire to bed early."

Aragorn took his lesson well and said no more, although his hand slipping below the table and caressing Legolas' inner thigh left the elf in no doubt as to what would actually occur that night.

~Part Eighteen~

After the meal had finished the Royal couple rose to adjourn to the gardens.  Guests would now be free to circulate amongst the public rooms and gardens of the palace, mingling with members of the Royal family, or just gossiping amongst themselves, as many of them were prone to do.

Aragorn and Legolas remained side by side but Legolas kept Amelia close to him, and noted with interest how Boromir too had strangely decided to remain with them this evening instead of wandering off by himself, as was his usual habit after dinner.  Legolas suppressed a smile and sought an avenue in which he could test his suppositions and immediately found one in the form of Lord Fenner.  This middle-aged man was a terrible flirt and lusted after anything that was prone to movement.  Making eye contact with the lusty lord ensured that the man all but ran over to join their party.

"Your Highness," Fenner said with an oily smile. "Lady Garrett, a pleasure as always."  As Fenner made a bow before them Legolas watched the man's eyes rake over Amelia's form.

Perfect the Prince thought, now to use the bait to lure the main catch.

"Lord Fenner, I have heard that you are something of a musical connoisseur.  I have even heard tell that you write your own music and words.  Is this true?" Legolas asked with interest.

The man before him seemed to puff up in self importance, "Why Your Highness, I am somewhat embarrassed.  I must admit that I have dabbled a little in the musical arena, however I would not call myself a connoisseur.  I have heard Highness, that nothing can rival the music of the elves, except of course for the sweet sounds that Lady Garret makes as she laughs."  Again the man's eyes drifted from Amelia's face to her bosom, and beside him he felt the lady in question stiffen in outrage.

"Having heard Amelia's laugh I can assure you that it is indeed sweeter that the sweetest of elven melodies.  But perhaps Lord Fenner you might play for us at some time, something of your own composition?"

Lord Fenner's eyes seemed to light up, and if possible he seemed to swell even further with pride.  However Legolas was somewhat disconcerted, as Fenner's attention now seemed to be focused on himself as well as Amelia.

The man showed an unwise boldness as he grabbed Legolas hand, ignoring the suddenly tense body of the Prince, and raised it to his mouth to place a sloppy kiss all over it.  Legolas made a small sound of disgust in the back of his throat.  Taking the sound as a sign of encouragement Fenner swept a look that encompassed Legolas' body.

"Might I say Your Highness, how very glad we all are that King Elessar took you for his husband.  Gondor has indeed gained a shining star in your form.  Although I feel that had he not been so quick to arrange your union the competition for your hand would have been fierce."  Fenner's words made Legolas shudder at the thought of this man asking his father for permission to court him, and he tried to tug free his hand without causing a scene.

Hearing his name, Aragorn turned from the conversation he was having with Boromir and Lord Denethor.  He saw at once the leering look that Fenner raked over his husband, the man still holding Legolas' hand, and excusing himself he turned to join the conversation behind him.

"Lord Fenner is it not?"  Aragorn asked nonchalantly.

The Lord grinned and nodded his head in acknowledgement, although he at once dropped the hand of the Prince Consort.  Aragorn watched as the man's eyes flicked around to see who was taking note of his conversation with the Royal family.  Boromir and Lord Denethor also joined them, Boromir actually moving to stand at Amelia's side.

"Lord Fenner was just agreeing to a small performance of his music for Lady Garret and I," Legolas pointed out glancing quickly at Boromir.

"Indeed, although I must say again that my music is nothing in comparison to the sweet laughter of Lady Garrett, something I fear we do not hear enough of."  Lord Fenner sighed dramatically.

Legolas noticed that Boromir's mouth seemed to have tightened almost painfully. "Perhaps Lady Garrett has found nothing amusing to laugh at in your company," Boromir bit out.

Fenner's look dismissed the Steward's son and again focused on the lady in question who had yet to voice her opinion, although the look in her eyes spoke volumes.

"Perhaps I should make more of an effort to spend time with Lady Garrett then, in order to attempt to procure more of her delightful laugh," Lord Fenner stated again with an oily smile directed at the lady.

Legolas took pity on Amelia, "I am afraid that Lady Garrett is much involved with myself at present.  She is quite knowledgeable about plant life and is currently assisting me as I make some additions to the gardens."  Legolas painted a regretful look upon his face.

However, Fenner was not discouraged so easily.  "Ah, but this is even better Your Highness. I have heard that elves sing to the trees, and to other plant life, perhaps whilst you and Lady Garret work in the gardens I could sing to you both there."

Legolas cringed inwardly, although he had not heard the music of Lord Fenner, he could not help but feel instinctively that if the man tried to sing before his plants they would surely curl up and die.

"I am afraid that Lady Garrett and I work alone, I am teaching her the elven ways of gardening, secrets we do not share lightly.  Perhaps another time."  Legolas offered solicitously.

Fenner frowned but his smiled returned a moment later.  "Perhaps then Your Highness, I could give both you and Lady Garrett a private performance," the man said with confidence, as though he had no doubt that his audience would be more than satisfied.

This time the man was foolish enough to allow his lusty gaze to sweep over the elven Prince, and Legolas felt his husband stiffen beside him.  Fearing for Lord Fenner's life, and knowing that Fenner had been encouraged by himself he took pity on the man.

"Lord Fenner, as much as I am sure that I would enjoy such an audience I am afraid that my husband would not feel it to be appropriate," Fenner looked at Aragorn's glowering features, and swallowed with some difficultly.  "Perhaps though you could entertain us all at tomorrow's banquet?"  Legolas added.

Swallowing his pride and not wishing to enrage his king further Fenner agreed and swiftly excused himself, and the Royal party continued their walk around the gardens.

Aragorn tugged Legolas slightly ahead of the others.  "Just what game are you playing my love?" he questioned in dangerous tones.

Legolas placed his hand reassuringly on Aragorn's arm.  "Forgive me Aragorn, but I merely wanted to test something," Legolas said smiling up at the man.

Aragorn frowned, "Test what?"

"Have you not noticed how Boromir acts around Lady Garrett, and how she too blushes when in his company?"

Enlightenment dawned on the King and he smiled wickedly.  "I see, you are matchmaking are you not?"

Legolas smiled warmly, "I simply want our friends to be as happy as we are," he purred softly, and Aragorn's breath quickened.

"Then I shall lend you any help you need my love.  Together we shall see this done, now come, I think we have tarried long enough, we can now retire," he said pulling a laughing elf behind him as he called out their goodbyes along the way.

~~~~~~~~~~

The following day passed swiftly, with the morning reserved for meetings with Ministers for both Aragorn and Legolas.  However in the afternoon, Legolas swiftly made his escape and called upon Lady Garrett to join him in the gardens where they passed the rest of the afternoon with transplanting the gifts of Lord Elrond.  They were joined late in the afternoon by both Lord Elrond and King Thranduil, who wished to assist them, and it was not long before all of the plants had been given a new home.

Legolas looked around him in satisfaction.  "This is indeed a job well done," he commented.

"I must agree, the plants look to be very happy in their new homes, but you know of course that care must be given to them daily for their first few months," the Lord of Rivendell pointed out.

Legolas nodded, "I think that I should be here in the gardens every day in any case.  I could not stand to be inside the palace walls all day.  I think I shall also have to arrange a riding excursion with Celdarion," the young prince mused.

Thranduil shared an anxious look with Elrond, and then turned back to his son, "Is that wise?" he asked.

"Is what wise?" a voice called out, and they all turned to see Aragorn and Boromir approach.

"I was just saying how very much I should like to go out riding," Legolas said smiling with warmth for his husband.

Aragorn shook his head.  "Absolutely not," he said firmly.

Legolas frowned, "Why ever not?"

"Do you not remember what happened last time you went out riding?"  Aragorn pointed out harshly, and regretted it as Legolas' face paled.

"I remember very clearly Aragorn, however the danger is past.  He is dead," Legolas said in clipped tones.

"But the sorcerer is not," Aragorn said loudly.

Legolas flinched and the man moved to embrace his husband, however Legolas pushed him away angrily.

"You cannot keep me locked within the city Aragorn for the rest of our lives here," Legolas shouted.  He pushed away all attempts to touch him.

"I do not wish to Legolas, but I must think of your safety, and the safety of our child."

Legolas made a sound of frustration and whirled away running off towards the trees.  Aragorn made to follow but Elrond laid a restraining hand on his arm.

"Give him time to think Estel, he will calm down and he will see that you only wish the best for him."

Aragorn nodded and allowed Elrond to lead him back to the palace.  Thranduil watched them leave and then turned to follow his son.  Amelia stood feeling awkwardly embarrassed at having been witness to this intimate fight.  She was interrupted from her own thoughts by Boromir holding out his hand in a simple gesture.  With a hesitant smile that was answered by the man she took his hand and he led back to the palace.

~~~~~~~~~~

Elrond took Aragorn back to his foster son's sitting room pushing him into a chair.

"Am I such an ogre Father? Why does Legolas not see reason?"  he exclaimed in anguish.

"Peace my son, you must remember that Legolas is an elf. He is a child of nature, and to prevent his access to that only causes him pain and suffering.  You know this, you were raised among us in Rivendell."

Aragorn sighed. "I know.  I know that he needs to feel free, and that to tie him to stone walls will only kill him slowly, but I cannot help but worry every time he leave my sight.  I was not there the first time father, what if it happens again. I cannot protect him if I am not with him."  Clouded blue-grey eyes looked up at the Elven Lord much as they had done when he was a child, and Elrond's heart clenched in empathic sympathy.

"Aragorn, you know that even if you had been there, it is likely that there is nothing you could have done.  You would have ended up as Celdarion did, perhaps even dead.  You cannot always protect the ones that you love, as much as you would like to.  I know this."  Elrond's head bowed for a moment, and Aragorn knew that he was thinking of his wife.

"I am sorry father, for being such a fool, perhaps Legolas and I can reach a compromise," Aragorn said with more hope in his voice, then his face fell slightly.  "Do you think Legolas will forgive me?"

Elrond laughed gently.  "I am quite certain he will my son.  You have a very long life together ahead of you, I am sure this is but the first fight of many."

Aragorn nodded feeling better.  He quickly embraced his foster father before leaving in search of his beloved.

~~~~~~~~~~

Legolas sprinted away from the small group, running blindly into the trees.  When he halted he noted that he was in front of the tree that formed his bower, and he jumped up into the branches, seeking a high place of solitude.

He slumped against the trees trunk letting his legs dangle to either side of the branch he sat upon, closing his eyes and sighing.  So he was startled to hear the slight rustling of leaves and to feel a slight change in the branch.  He opened his eyes to see his father seated on the branch next to him.  He gaped in astonishment.

"You think your old father cannot climb trees anymore little one?"  the King said with amusement.

Legolas shook his head in bewilderment.  Then bowed his head in distress as he recalled the reason he was now sitting in the tree.

"Aren't you a more than a few centuries too old for running away?"  Thranduil asked softly.

Legolas looked up, his eyes flashing in renewed anger.  "He has no right to imprison me thus.  I am an elf, one of the firstborn.  It is my right to wander as I please."

"Legolas, my son.  I must admit that Aragorn's thoughts echoed my own.  After what happened the last time you went out riding, it causes fear to us all to think of you out and unprotected again."

Legolas said nothing, his expression mulish.

"Do you really blame Aragorn for feeling so protective?  He almost did not get to marry you at all.  I think he worries that because he was unable to be by your side when you were taken, that every time you leave him something might happen to you, something he cannot protect you from."

Legolas sighed in defeat.  He understood this, but it chafed so to be restrained.  "I understand father, but I cannot remain within the palace walls for the rest of our reign here.  I must be allowed out."

"Then perhaps you and Aragorn can come to some arrangement where you are both left with peaceful minds hmm?"  Thranduil offered sagely.

Legolas thought for a moment before nodding, and without hesitation jumped from the branch to land nimbly on the ground below before running swiftly towards the palace.

~~~~~~~~~~

They met midway, halting awkwardly before one another.

"I am sorry that I upset you," Aragorn offered, and his expression reminded Legolas of how young his husband was, even in man standards.

"I too am sorry," Legolas responded shyly.

"Perhaps we can talk."  "I think we should talk." They said together, and then stopped smiling gently.

Aragorn took a step forward, and when Legolas did not move back he took it as an encouraging sign that he could embrace the elf.  His arms wrapped themselves around the slim waist, and he felt Legolas' arms place themselves around his shoulder.

"I fear to lose you Legolas," Aragorn said, his heart expressed in the simple words.

"You will not lose me, my love, you cannot."

"I wish that I could feel reassured by your words, but there are those that will always seek to take what they cannot have.  There will also be enemies that we make in the course of our reign.  Once your belly swells with the child you will be unable to fight."

"I understand this, but I need to feel the freedom of the forests.  I will not last our time here together if I must remain within these walls," Legolas explained.

"What of your gardens, do they not please you?" Aragorn tried one more time.

"Yes, they are very pleasing, it is also where my bower rests, but it is no substitute for the peace that the forests bring me.  Please Aragorn," Legolas' pleading blue gaze boring into the man's.

Aragorn raised his eyes towards the stars before releasing a deep breath.  He looked back at his husband. "Very well, but you are to take a full squadron of guards, and you must ride no further than 3 miles from the city walls," Aragorn said.

Legolas laughed disbelievingly.  "No, that is no compromise!"

"Please Legolas I am trying."

Legolas sighed, "I know you are, but you must understand, it is in my very nature to be free, to come and go as I please.  To commune with nature.  That would be impossible to do in the midst of a squadron of your finest men who trample the forest as they pass.  Please all I require is Celdarion.  He has long been my companion and bodyguard.  He will suffice."

Aragorn hesitated, but the deep blue, almost violet gaze met his own and he was lost.  With a sigh he nodded his defeat, but was rewarded a moment later when Legolas threw himself further into the embrace.  Aragorn admitted that perhaps he could admit defeat more often.

"Come now, my love, we have some little time before we must prepare for dinner, and Lord Fenner's performance, perhaps we can put it good use," the elf said with a coy smile, and Aragorn thought again how sweet defeat could be.

~Part Nineteen~

The morning dawned bright and clear, and Legolas was up early.  He left a still snoozing Aragorn as he ran off to meet Celdarion.  The older elf already stood by the paddock in which the elven horses were kept but he was not alone.  His father also stood there dressed in his hunting attire as opposed to his usual state robes.  Legolas grinned.

"Not a word little one," Thranduil said warningly, but the sting was taken out of the words by the smile adorning the King's face.

"I was simply going to say that I am pleased you could join us father," he said as he nimbly jumped up onto his horse, "but I do hope you can keep up," he added, before spurring his horse on and racing down to the palace gates.

"Ha, we shall see who needs to keep up my son, come Celdarion, let us teach that impudent young son of mine a lesson," Thranduil jumped up onto his own horse and he and Celdarion swiftly followed after the elven prince.

It did not take them long to catch up for their pace was forcibly slowed as they rode through the city, but once out of the city gates the race was on again.  Legolas sped quickly into the lead, enjoying the feel of the wind as it raced over and past him, making his hair appear a golden stream from behind him.  He whispered encouragingly to his horse to run faster still as they galloped across the meadows that lay between the city and the forests beyond.

He turned his head slightly as he sensed movement and saw his father pulling alongside him, the elven king bent low over his steed's back, and just beyond the King, Celdarion also rushed forward, the experienced woodland elf slowly starting to pull further ahead of both King and Prince.

As they reached the forests they slowed their pace.  Racing was nearly impossible in a forest without causing some damage to their horses, and elves despised causing harm to creatures they named friend.

The moment they rode under the shadowy boughs of the forest Legolas felt an immediate sense of peace come over him.  It reminded him so much of home, or more like home had used to be before the encroaching darkness had forced their borders back.

The soft sounds of the wood was like music to his ears, and he rode at a slow pace so he could take in the calm soothing air of the nature surrounding him.

"You feel better little one?"  Thranduil asked him.

"Infinitely!" was Legolas' heartfelt reply.  Then he felt a burst of guilt.  "I do not mean that I do not wish to live with Aragorn in his city.  I love Aragorn, I would live with him anywhere.  But sometimes the stone walls chafe at my spirit so, and there is nothing like the forests to soothe a wood elf."

"Your time in this city will not be so very long little one.  Your children will take over your rule after a time, and you will be able to return to Mirkwood with Aragorn.  You are still the Crown Prince, my only heir," Thranduil pointed out.

Legolas nodded.  "This is something we have discussed a little.  I think Aragorn wishes to maintain his rule for maybe fifty years, then pass the title onto our children.  He was raised in Rivendell so living with the elves will not be a new occurrence, nor a hardship for him."

"I am certain he will feel very much at home in Mirkwood.  And you will have plenty of time to travel to Rivendell so that Aragorn may spend time with his family there," the King pointed out. Legolas nodded.  "I want your happiness my son.  This match was a good one for our two nations, but nothing could have pleased me more than for you to find love with your husband.  I am glad to know that when I return to Mirkwood you will be left in good hands."

Legolas shot a look at his father. "You are leaving soon?"

Thranduil nodded, "In two weeks time.  I have been here in Gondor longer than was necessary my son, I wished only to assure myself of your happiness before I left."

"Will you visit again?" Legolas asked hesitantly.

"As often as I can.  But you may also find time away from your new role here to come home to Mirkwood.  In the mean time, I am charging Celdarion with your continuing safety, and that of my grandchild." Thranduil said loudly enough for the other elf to hear.

Snorted laughter answered him.  "An almost impossible task Your Majesty when your son seems to go out of his way to find trouble."  The elven guard said.

Legolas was affronted.  "I do not.  I am a very sensible and cautious elf."

Now his father's laughter joined Celdarion's, and Legolas harrumphed in displeasure.

"Have you forgotten so soon little Prince, the time you decided to try and catch yourself one of the rats from the lower levels of the palace?" Celdarion asked, smiling when Legolas blushed.  "We found you stuffed in a barrel after you had accidentally shut yourself inside.  You had cried yourself to sleep and had I not found you, without doubt you would not have been freed until the barrel had reached Laketown."

"I believe when he awoke and we asked him why he had taken refuge in the barrel he said something about a rat attacking him," Thranduil chuckled.

"It was a very big rat, besides that was an isolated incident," Legolas defended himself stoutly.

"It was?" Celdarion arched a delicate eyebrow, and Thranduil laughed.  "What about the time you…"

"Alright, alright.  I concede that I may have had a few mishaps whilst growing, but that it all over."  Legolas pointedly ignored the look that King and guard shared.

~~~~~~~~~~

The trio rode back into the city feeling much refreshed and light-hearted.  They passed through the palace gates after having received many curious stares from the people as they made their way through the streets of Gondor, until finally they reached the paddock set aside for the elven horses.  Gathering waiting equipment they began to brush down their horses.

One of the men who worked in the palace stables came upon them and exclaimed in outraged shock.  "Your Highness, please, you should not have to attend to your own horse.  It is improper.  Please, allow me and my colleagues to take care of your horses," he said bowing before the Elven Prince.

Legolas sighed, would this be the way of things in a city of men?  "What is your name?" he asked the man before him.

If possible the man's eyes widened even further, very few from amongst the ranks of the nobles knew his name, and fewer still bothered to ask for it.  "Your Highness, I am called Felton, I am the stable master's second," he explained.

"Very well Felton, please, do not bow before me, there is no need," the Prince stated firmly.

"But Your High…"

"Felton, please, I am a simple elf, there is no need for you to debase yourself so before me."

Felton nodded hesitantly, but then opened his mouth again, "But Highness, it is still unseemly for you and your companions to see to your own horses.  That is what we are here for."

"That maybe so for the horses of men Felton," Legolas said with a smile.  "But should you try to deal with an elven horse I fear you may swiftly find yourself out of your depth.  Elven horses are free creatures, tied to us only by love, and such is our mastery with the creatures of nature that only elves could tame these beasts long enough to cleanse them.  Should you try you would merely incite the horses to anger."

Felton shook his head.  "My Lord, we are all employed for the King's service because of our skill with the animals, would you not at least let me try?"

Legolas laughed.  "You are a stubborn one Felton, but aye, I will allow to attempt to tend my horse, on one condition.  Should he fail to allow you near him, I shall continue.  Agreed?"

Felton smiled a little, secure in his belief of his own abilities when it came to horses.  "Agreed," he said.

Legolas moved aside to stand with his father as the man slowly approached the elven steed.  Celdarion stood by his own horse watching with careful eyes.  Felton moved close to the horse speaking softly trying to reassure the animal with his voice.  The big horse watched him with eyes that seem to sparkle with intelligence.

As he got closer Felton's confidence grew, and with a smile he reached out a hand to gently pat the horse's nose.  Turning to smile at the Elven Prince, he was shocked when there was a sudden angry cry from the horse.  As if in slow motion Felton turned back to the animal and saw the horse had raised itself on it's hind legs and now made to bring it's forward hoofs crashing down onto him.  He watched helplessly, unable to move.  Then suddenly he was falling to the side, his head striking the stone paving hard enough to daze him.

When time had returned to normal he looked around.  He saw one of the Prince's companions lifting himself off the ground before offering an assisting hand down to the man.  Taking the hand Felton gingerly rose.  His gaze met the stricken one of the Prince.

"Felton, are you well?"  he asked urgently.

Dazedly Felton nodded.

"You are bleeding," the Prince pointed out.  "Please forgive me, I would not have allowed you to approach Alagos had I known just what he would do."  The Prince whirled suddenly to face his horse, and began scolding the beast in Elvish, or at least Felton assumed it to be the Prince's mother tongue for the sound was so enchanting and musical.

Felton continued to watch in amazement as the elven steed seemed to bow its head in dejection at the scolding.  Legolas finished his diatribe and stood looking at the horse with his arms crossed over his chest.  The horse slowly moved forward before nuzzling the Prince gently.  Gently but firmly the Prince pushed the animal aside, and the broad shoulders of the beast seemed to droop even further.

Legolas ignored his sulking horse and turned back to the man.  "Again I beg your forgiveness Felton.  I had not known him to be so unwelcoming to men.  Had Celdarion not moved to push you aside I fear Alagos would have seriously wounded you.  Now, I think it best if you go to the healers, and make sure that your head has not taken serious damage."

The prince signaled to a passing guard and bade him escort the stableman to the healer's wing.  With a sigh Legolas turned back to his steed.

"What is the matter with you Alagos.  We are to live in this city of men for some time, you cannot attack every one that approaches you.  Now tell me, if you cannot remain within this city at my side then I will take you outside and allow you to leave.  I will find another companion from amongst your brethren.  The decision is yours," the Prince stated.

Alagos snorted softly and again tried to nuzzle Legolas with his nose.  Using his teeth to gently tug at the Prince's sleeve.  Unable to remain angry for long at his equine friend he laughed softly and rubbed the animal's nose before again taking up his brush.

"Very well, you can stay, but I warn you now, you had better remain on your best behavior.  Aragorn is very protective of me, and should he think that my own mount has become a wild beast he will have no compunction whatsoever in turning you outside the city walls."

Celdarion shared an amused look with Thranduil at Legolas' handling of his horse, and Thranduil marveled at his son's way with animals, he truly was a Prince among elves.

~~~~~~~~~~

The three elves decided to freshen themselves up before joining Aragorn and the others in a late breakfast.

"I noticed you left early this morning my love," Aragorn said as he buttered a roll.

Legolas felt a slight twinge of guilt, although he had been accustomed to riding early in the mornings, there had been another reason for his early departure.  He had not wanted to face Aragorn and any last minute objections he might have to Legolas' riding in the forest with so few companions.

"Yes, I particularly enjoy early morning rides, actually my father joined Celdarion and I this morning.  Perhaps you too could join us one morning," he said smiling hesitantly at his husband.  He was relieved when Aragorn smiled in return.

"I would like that," the man said.  Then the young King turned back to his guests.  "Lord Celeborn, Lady Galadriel, I hear that you leave today to return to Lórien.  We shall greatly miss your presence.  It is such a shame that Mithrandir had to depart so soon after our wedding, we would have welcomed his company, as indeed we will anytime he wished to grace us with his presence."

"I am afraid I too will be taking my leave in a few days," Lord Elrond announced.  "I am glad I could be here Estel to see you take hold of your destiny, and meet your mate," the Eldar said gently to soften the blow to his foster son.  Aragorn nodded smiling.

"It appears we shall soon be left alone," Legolas said softly, gazing at his father, the news of the King's departure playing through his mind.

"Fear not, for we still have my Uncle Denethor and cousin Boromir," Aragorn said smiling.

"We cannot forget Amelia," Legolas pointed out, and shared a small triumphant look with Aragorn at the sight of Boromir's suddenly flushed features.

"Speaking of the fair lady, where is she this morning?" Aragorn enquired.  Legolas shrugged his shoulders in response.

"She is breaking fast with her mother," Boromir pointed out quietly.

Pasting a nonchalant look upon his face Legolas turned to the man.  "I see, a pity, we all enjoy her company so very much.  I noticed though that you and she did speak for some time last night, you seem to be getting on quite well."

Boromir could not meet his gaze, instead directing his response to the tablecloth.  "I have known Amelia since she first arrived at court with her husband.  She was a friend of my wife."

Legolas was surprised, and felt sorrow for bringing back what were obviously painful memories to Boromir.  He felt Aragorn's hand clasp his own under the table.

"Indeed, she is such a sweet lady that it is no hardship to befriend her.  I for one am glad that you came across her Legolas," the King said.

Legolas smiled, squeezing the man's hand gently, and conversation at the table turned to other topics.

"I must admit that I was much impressed with Lord Fenner's performance last night," Lord Elrond pointed out suddenly, a spark of mischief in his eyes, as Legolas suddenly froze.

"One might almost say his works were inspired," Aragorn added, wincing a little as Legolas' grip became harder.

"I think one of my favorite verses had to be the one in which he described the timeless beauty, possessed of the one he desired.  I particularly enjoyed the line that described the 'Fairest hair of golden streams; untouched beauty inspiring dreams'."

Lord Celeborn's imitation of Lord Fenner was uncanny, and had the room in peals of laughter.  Even Legolas had to laugh a little.

"Perhaps we can have Lord Fenner compose a new piece for dinner next week?"  Aragorn suggested.

"Indeed, if I am to become a patron of the arts I shall have to seek out as many artists of Lord Fenner's talent as possible, perhaps have them compose a piece dedicated to their new King," Legolas remarked, and happily noted Aragorn's silence on the matter.

~~~~~~~~~~

It was late afternoon when they all parted company, and Aragorn and Legolas decided to walk in the gardens, so that Legolas could point out the new additions.  It was unusual for them to have the morning so free to themselves, however Aragorn had decided that King or no, there should be some time when he could just be with his husband, without having to meet the Elven Prince around meetings with advisors, and clerks, and ministers, and soldiers, and the list was endless.

Aragorn thought back to that first, so very important ball.  If he had not found Legolas to share his life with, he could imagine that he would be the most miserable person in Gondor right now.  Imagining himself tied to one of those insipid young women made him shudder in horror.

"What is it?" Legolas enquired, one eyebrow lifted in question.

Aragorn smiled and wrapped his arm around the elf's waist pulling him closer as they walked.  "I was just thinking about what life might have been like, had I not had the great fortune of meeting you," he said simply.

Legolas smiled, "I too think of that day as a very lucky one for me.  My father wished to make a strong alliance for the sake of Mirkwood, but in order to get to that end I might have found myself tied to anyone who had been present at the ball."  Legolas shuddered remembering Lord Gafen.

"Then we must thank the Valar, who have blessed us both, first with each other, and now with the child that grows within you," the King of Gondor stated.

Legolas nodded in agreement, and placed his hand on his still taut belly.  "It is strange Aragorn. I know that the child grows within me, indeed I have touched its essence, and yet as yet I fell so very little.  There is no obvious sign of this pregnancy, and I wonder too how I will feel when I big with this child."

"I know that you could only look more beautiful to me.  You are the embodiment of everything I hold dear, and that makes you more precious to me than even my own life," Aragorn uttered fervently.

"As you are to me," Legolas replied sincerely.

"Then my love, let us away to our bed, and celebrate this love we hold for one another," Aragorn said with a wicked glint in his eyes and his eyes roaming freely over his husband.

Laughing Legolas allowed himself to be guided back to their rooms.

~~~~~~~~~~

Two weeks passed swiftly and Legolas found himself saying goodbye to his father and the elves from his home in Mirkwood.  Celdarion was the only elf who was to remain in the city of men with his Prince, many more had offered to stay in service to Legolas, but the young elf had gently refused knowing that to spend so much time away their home in the forests of Mirkwood would be difficult for all the elves.

At least he had Aragorn, and his child to think about.  He worried too about how Celdarion would fare here but the older elf had stubbornly ignored Legolas' attempts to persuade him to return to Mirkwood with his father.

The elves gathered together in front of the palace, their possessions packed, and the majority of the elves mounted, ready for the long ride home.  Thranduil stood at the bottom of the steps facing his son.  Celdarion stood at the Prince's left, and Aragorn at his right ready to offer support to his beloved husband.

Legolas could not find any words, his throat closing over and his eyes watering.  He knew it might be some time before he again saw his father, and he was again aware of the little time he had spent away from his father's side.

Thranduil also felt unable to speak.  His son, the most precious thing in his world, was to be left in the world of men.  Legolas had been a constant companion to him since his birth, and the old king wondered now what he was to do, with whom would he sit at night and discuss many various things from simple life in the forest to the intricate politics of the world at large.

Finding words unavailable to him the elven king allowed his actions to speak instead. Stepping forward, he pulled Legolas tightly into his arms, gently guiding the young elf's head to his shoulders as he placed gentle kisses on the fair head of his son.  The young prince's arms went around his father and held on tightly, and he felt the tears that he had held back begin to trickle free as he tried to restrain a sob.

Thranduil also felt wetness on his own cheeks and he made gentle shushing sounds rubbing Legolas' back to offer comfort, much as he had when the Prince was small.  The old king sent a look to Celdarion, informing him with his eyes that his duty now was to protect the young elf, with his life if need be, and the old elven guard inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment of the charge.

The Elven King's gaze then met that of Aragorn.  And the concerned look in the man's eyes told him that comfort would be given to his son after his own departure.  Feeling somewhat more assured about leaving Legolas in this city of men he pushed the young elf back slightly from his embrace so that he could look into the face of his son.  Legolas looked up at his father with watery eyes, a solemn expression on his face.

Thranduil had to clear his throat a few times before he could speak.  "My son, I depart now for our own homeland, but I shall see you within the year, a swift passing of time to the firstborn.  I shall return to see you give birth to my grandchild.  And know that Mirkwood will always offer you her boughs in protection and love, as they will to your new husband."

Legolas nodded, and clasped his father's hand tightly before forcing himself to take a step back.  Aragorn immediately stepped forward, his arm snaking around the elf's waist to offer him his silent support.

Thranduil turned and jumped up easily onto his mount.  Sparing one last look at his son, he spurred his horse on and rode to the head of the elven entourage as they departed, a song already flowing from their lips to honor their young Prince.

Legolas continued to stand there after the elves had passed the palace gates and were out of sight.

"Come, my love, let us return to our chambers, you can rest awhile.  We are free for the rest of this morning," Aragorn said gently pulling slightly at the still form of his husband.

Legolas blinked slowly and sighed heavily.  "I will miss him!" the young elf said simply.

"I know, but as he said, it shall be only a short time until you see him again.  And we can visit Mirkwood once things have settled and the babe is born."

This time Legolas allowed himself to be pulled into the embrace his husband offered.  Aragorn looked at Celdarion as his hand gently stroked the long golden locks of his husband.  The older elf smiled in approval and he left the couple alone.  Aragorn tightened his arms briefly about Legolas' before ushering the elf inside.

~Part Twenty~

Legolas sat in the gardens with Amelia at his side.  A small table had been placed outside for their convenience, and on bright days such as this one it was their habit to enjoy each other's company in the refreshing outdoors.  Three months had now passed since Legolas' marriage to Aragorn, and in that time the gifts of Rivendell were not the only thing that had grown.  Not only was the bond between the Royal couple deeper but also the new life within Legolas' own body grew daily, a small bump now forming at Legolas' waist.

Worried about the impact his antics might have on the growing child Legolas had decided to forgo his daily rides until after the child was born, and Aragorn did not try to conceal his relief at the situation.  Although nothing had occurred in any of Legolas' sorties, Aragorn could not help but worry, and was usually to be found waiting anxiously for his husband to return windswept and grinning like a fiend.

Legolas could not be angry with his husband for feeling that way.  They had talked much of Aragorn's fears and Legolas understood why the young man disliked his leaving the palace so intensely, yet from these talks Aragorn had also gained a deeper understanding of what it meant to Legolas to enjoy the freedom of riding outside and begrudgingly he said nothing merely watching every day as Legolas left, and then waiting as Legolas returned.

Another bond that seemed to be forming came from Amelia and Boromir, the steward's son spending more and more time in her presence, paying attention to her, making her welcomed.  Legolas encouraged this in any small way he could, hoping that two of his very dear friends could find love with each other.

The kingdom itself had settled down nicely under the reign of its new King and Prince, the people trusting in their honesty and sincerity.  Something that had only been helped by the outcome of the investigation into the prisoner Ebwil Crane's argument of his innocence.  When the crown investigators had delved deeply into the case the bailiff who had made the arrest on behalf of his lord, Marlen, had decided that perhaps the prisoner had been arrested a little too hastily.  The Crane family reunion had brought a tear to nearly every eye who witnessed it, and the family had decided to make it's home in Minas Tirith.

Legolas had keenly missed his father after the Mirkwood elves had departed, and for the first few days after they had departed the young elf had remained solemn.  Both his husband and his friends had worked hard to lift his spirits, but it was Celdarion's presence that had been the balm to the young elf's soul.  The old elf had been there since his birth, and although Aragorn had felt somewhat jealous of the soothing effect Celdarion had on his husband, he could not begrudge Legolas the company.

On this fine day Celdarion had seated himself a small distance from Legolas and Amelia, something that had irritated the young elf.   "Celdarion," Legolas called out, sighing softly in annoyance.  "Why will you not come and sit with us, I am quite sure it will not kill you to do so."

Celdarion looked over at the young prince, seemingly casual, yet Legolas knew that the old elf was never off his guard, constantly vigilant for any threat he might perceive.

"I am well enough here my Prince," the bodyguard stated.

"Very well, then Amelia and I shall just have to join you over there shall we not?"  Legolas threw a challenging look at Celdarion as he and Amelia rose to move over onto the grass where Celdarion sat.

Celdarion threw an irritated glance at the young elf before rising gracefully to his feet and stalking over to the table.  Legolas shared a triumphant smile with Amelia as they retook their seats.

"There now, is that not much more civilized," Legolas said with an innocent face, and heard a giggle unsuccessfully restrained by Amelia as Celdarion growled.

Legolas wisely decided not to tease Celdarion anymore and instead turned his attentions to the young lady.  "Amelia, you have become very friendly with Lord Boromir, you and he spend much time together now, I feel almost pushed out of your affections," the young prince said pouting a little.

Amelia's face instantly took on a rosy hue. "Lord Boromir and I have known each other for a long time Legolas, his wife and I were friends."

"Indeed, why then does your face turn some a becoming shade of pink whenever his name is mentioned," Legolas asked grinning.

"We might ask the same of you my Prince, for even your ears seem to turn a delightful pink whenever we discuss your own husband," Celdarion said with a wicked glint in his eyes, and Legolas knew this was punishment for his earlier teasing of the elf, yet he was helpless to stop the betraying blush overcoming his features.  He scowled at the older elf and glared at Amelia who openly laughed at him this time.

"Such a delightful sound," a voice suddenly called out and the three spun in surprise to see who intruded on their solitude.

Three heads turned to face the newcomer and Legolas frowned, he did not recall this person.  Seeing the Elven Prince's confusion the newcomer introduced himself.

"Your Highness, I am Lord Marlen," the man said before sweeping a low bow, his cold eyes however, never left Amelia.

Beside him Legolas felt Celdarion tense, but he gestured softly for the older elf not to do anything just yet.  Legolas considered the man before him.  He appeared unarmed, yet his body was lean and muscled, this man was no stranger to physical work.  His hair neat and trimmed, and his clothes obviously rich yet tasteful and subdued.  The man's features were sharp and almost hawkish and the smile he wore never reached his eyes.

Taking the silence for acceptance Lord Marlen approached the company.

"Lord Marlen, I do not recall seeing you very often at court," Legolas remarked.

Marlen smiled, "Alas, my duty to my estates often keeps from court, although of course I now see why so many of my fellow peers prefer to be here."  His gaze swept over the party.  "Lady Garrett, I am surprised to see you here.  I know you have been much like myself keeping yourself to your estates."

Amelia seemed unable to answer so Legolas stepped into the breach.  "I am afraid poor Amelia has been drafted into keeping me company," he said lightly.

"How very fortunate for you Your Highness, I had actually intended to pay Lady Garrett a visit upon my return home, but as I see she is here I can instead pay court to her whilst I am attending business in the capital."

Legolas noted the fine shudder that seemed to wrack Amelia's body.  "You are too kind Lord Marlen, I am afraid though at present I do not feel it appropriate for me to entertain any advances," she said finally in a hesitant voice.

"Your concern for your poor deceased husband does you credit my lady, however these are dangerous times, it is not always safe for a woman living alone.  Our lands border each other, I have said many times before that I would be more than happy to offer you my protection."  Lord Marlen looked consideringly at the ashen-faced lady before him.

Legolas frowned, he did not like this man at all and his forward attitude with regard to Amelia irritated him.  "Lord Marlen you seem a very generous man to offer your protection so.  I think though that it is unnecessary.  As a good citizen of Gondor the crown of course offers its protection.  Lady Garrett need fear nothing," the elven prince pointed out calmly, and was pleased when Amelia seemed to relax a little.

Marlen's face tightened almost unnoticeably but the sharp eyes of both elves spotted it.  Rising gracefully from his chair Legolas extended his hand to Lady Garrett.

"If you will excuse us Lord Marlen, I believe it has cooled somewhat, we shall retire to the palace."

"But of course Your Highness, but if I could just speak to Lady Garrett for but a moment, concerning matters of our borders…" Lord Marlen smiled and gestured to Amelia, however Marlen's smile faded as the tall, lethal figure of Celdarion stood before him.

"Ah how remiss of me Lord Marlen, I did not introduce you to Celdarion.  He is one of my oldest companions, a close friend also to my father," Legolas said with a winning smile.

Celdarion smiled, but it could not have been called friendly.  "Lord Marlen it is a pleasure to meet you, although Prince Legolas does exaggerate somewhat I am in face his personal bodyguard and have been since he was born," the older elf explained all the time his eyes watching closely and warning the man not to proceed any further.

"Ah Celdarion, you do yourself little justice, please do ignore his humility Lord Marlen, Celdarion has been almost a second father to me, and I've never actually seen Celdarion dispatch anyone who might have been a threat to me," Legolas said, then he painted a little frown on his face. "Although there was talk of the brutal slaying of certain men who had called out something distasteful," Legolas allowed his frown to last a moment longer before clearing his expression once more.  "But I am quite sure that is all rumor Lord Marlen, Celdarion is very soft hearted in actual fact, is that not so my friend?"

Celdarion grinned almost ferally making Marlen back up a step.  "If you say so my Prince, then it must be so."

Legolas laughed, a light musical sound.  "I do say so, now Lord Marlen, I think we have taken up far too much of your time, we will leave you now."

And so saying Legolas turned and walked with the tense figure of Amelia back into the palace trusting Celdarion to discourage any more attempts by Lord Marlen to steal the lady away.

~~~~~~~~~~

When they had reached a private sitting room and Celdarion had joined them Legolas collapsed in peals of laughter.  "Oh Celdarion you were magnificent, truly, did you see his face?" the young Prince asked.

Celdarion allowed a small smile to grace his features.  "I did indeed, I have not seen anyone squirm so much in a few centuries."

Legolas expression sobered as he noted the still pale and unlaughing figure of Lady Garrett.  Approaching her and taking her hands into his own Legolas squeezed them gently.

"Fear not Amelia, we shall not allow Lord Marlen to get close to you again.  I am quite sure that I can think of the perfect guard for you," he said gently.  Amelia looked up at her friend and a small smiled worked its way across her face.

"Thank you Legolas," she said softly.  "I am not one to dislike anybody really, but something about that man repulses me so."

"I understand, I too did not like the way he looked at you, he shall not be given the opportunity to do so again."

~~~~~~~~~~

Legolas led his small party to the palace's private library where he found Aragorn, Boromir and Denethor going over some papers.

"Aragorn, how is the investigation into Lord Marlen progressing?" he asked taking a seat next to his husband.

Aragorn frowned.  "I have not heard anything in the past couple of weeks, but then I expect my team of investigators to return from his lands shortly, why do you ask?"

"We have just met the man.  He came upon us as we sat in the gardens.  A most odious creature.  He was trying very hard to persuade Amelia to ally herself with him," the Prince explained.

Boromir looked up sharply.  "And is Lady Garrett amenable to such an alliance?" he asked sharply.

Amelia looked up in surprise at the man's tone.  She met his gaze steadily, small blotches of color in her otherwise pale cheeks. "No, I am not," she said firmly.  Boromir seemed to relax.

"In any case Aragorn, I know he seemed cooperative enough when he assisted us in the Ebwil's investigation but something about the man does not sit right with me."

"Your Highness we cannot conclude a man guilty simply because he does not make you feel comfortable," Denethor pointed out.

Legolas sighed in irritation.  "And I am not asking you to.  I merely wanted to know what information had been bought to light from the investigation.  You must admit Lord Denethor that it is strange for so many people from Lord Marlen's estates to complain of unnecessary hardship."

"Did Lord Marlen say why he was at court now?  I know he has not spent much time here recently, perhaps only a few days for our wedding and coronation, and even then he did not seem to be a very sociable man for I do not recall any conversations with him at the time," Aragorn said.

"He said he was here on business," Legolas informed his husband.  "He told us that he rarely came to court because his presence was necessary to keep his estates running."

"That may be so, Lord Marlen's estates are on the south western borders of Gondor, adjacent to your own estates Lady Garret I believe.  Those lands have never had an easy time of it and often the Lords of these estates must spend more time in fortifying their borders to keep their people safe as opposed to general upkeep and maintenance.  This could be the simple explanation for the complaints he has received.  He has after all only relatively recently taken over from his father and is most likely still finding his own way of running the estate," Denethor pointed out calmly.

Aragorn frowned again.  "He does have a point, my love.  Lady Garrett you must admit that your borders need to be well protected to keep out the dangers from the west." Amelia nodded in affirmation.  "There you see Legolas."  Aragorn hesitated before continuing.  "I have heard that many women whilst progressing through their pregnancy often encounter changes in the way their body works, some chemistry changes I believe it has been called.  Perhaps you are not really uneasy with Lord Marlen but you are feeling some changes within yourself…" he trailed off as he noticed the sudden tightness in the elven features before him.

He was startled at the speed with which Legolas rose to his feet, and concerned by the sudden flush of color on the cheeks of his beloved and the fury in his clear blue eyes.  However the Elven Prince seemed incapable of speech and without another word spoken he whirled and stormed from the room.  The door slammed behind him with incredible force.

Aragorn looked helplessly around the room before settling his gaze on the angry one of Celdarion.

The elven guard rose gracefully to his feet.  "If you will excuse me Your Majesty," he said frostily, turning to leave the room.

"Celdarion wait," Aragorn sprang to his feet.  "What did I say, why is Legolas so upset?"

Celdarion shook his head in disbelief.  "You may be the King of men, but I had thought you to have more intelligence than your brethren.  You have not only insulted the Crown Prince of Mirkwood, but you have insulted the entire elven nation."

Aragorn blanched. "But how?"

Celdarion sighed at the honest confusion in the man's face.  "My Lord Aragorn, not only is Legolas not a female but he is an elf.  To first of all compare him to one of the opposite sex, and one that is not even of his own kind was insult enough.  But then to ignore the instincts of an elf, which are sharper than your own, you have insulted all our kind.  For we live by our instincts and rarely do they fail us."

The King of men looked at the elven guard sharply.  "You felt uneasy in the presence of Lord Marlen too?" he asked.  Celdarion nodded in response.  "Then why did you not tell us? Support Legolas?"

"I should not have had to my lord.  He is your husband, your elven husband. That should have been enough."

Aragorn collapsed back into his chair burying his head in his hands.  "What have I done?" he said morosely.  He looked up suddenly rising once more from his chair.  "I must go to him," he said with determination.

"I would advise against it my Lord," Celdarion stated quietly.  "The Prince will not welcome your presence until he has calmed himself.  I think that if he sees you now it might incite him to violence."

Aragorn flinched but nodded.  "Very well, will you then go to him Celdarion, make sure he does no harm to himself?"

Celdarion inclined his head.  "I shall."  And with that he left the room.

Aragorn sat back in his seat saying nothing.  The awkward silence had the other three occupants looking for something on which they could cast their gaze.  Denethor rose to his feet and awkwardly patted Aragorn's shoulder.

"Never mind child, it was not entirely your fault, he did after all resemble many of the women who undergo these changes."

Aragorn flinched at the reminder of his insult.  Seeing that his attempts at comfort had failed Lord Denethor quickly excused himself and left the room.  Boromir then looked to Amelia.

"Lady Garrett, I wonder if you might take a short walk with me?" he asked and at the lady's affirmative they too left the room, leaving the King alone to brood.

~~~~~~~~~~

Celdarion knew instinctively that Legolas would retreat to the trees.  Thranduil had informed him once, that after the Royal couple's first fight Legolas had run to the tree that formed his bower, and it was there now that Celdarion went.

He searched the boughs of the tree before his keen elven eyesight spotted the Prince sitting high up in the tree.  Without effort he jumped up to the first branch and lightly made his way up to join the Prince.

"You realize that you will not be able to do this once you are heavy with the child," Celdarion pointed out calmly seating himself next to the Prince.

"Go away Celdarion, I wish to be alone," Legolas bit out angrily.

"I would heed your wishes my Prince if I thought any good would come of it.  But if I leave you here now you will work yourself up into a black humor which may last decades."

Legolas snorted suddenly and a small smile broke out.  "Celdarion you have never let me remain in a foul mood for more than a sevenight."

"That may be so my Prince, but even then I had to beat the black humor out of you.  I recall your father asking at dinner why it was you could not sit down," the older elf reminded his young charge.

"I recall very well, for when I told him what you had done, instead of having you executed which had been my wish at the time, he decided instead to bestow every honor he could upon you.  I believe he said that you were the only person he had ever met that had been able to take me in hand."  Legolas smiled softly in reminiscence.

"He did not mean to hurt you," Celdarion's soft words broke the happier mood, and Legolas scowled again.

"I do not wish to talk of it," he bit out.

"You must talk of it at some point.  You and he are bonded, and will remain so for all time.  You will have to learn to talk to each other at some point," the elven guard pointed out reasonably.

"Why?  If I say anything he will assume that I am like those mortal women who cannot control their moods.  Should I tell him that I feel unwell, will he assume that I have the sickness that the mortal women are prone to?  Aragorn was raised by the elves, he should know better than to make any assumptions about our kind."

"Yes, but like you he is still young, and still learning the way of the world.  And he is half man," Celdarion pointed out as though that might explain everything.

"That is no excuse," Legolas stubbornly stated.

Celdarion sighed.  "Little one, you are still not two millennia in age, if I must I will beat this black humor from you in same manner as before."

"You would not dare…" Legolas began, yet hesitated to continue as he saw the very serious intent in the older elf's eyes.  Eyes wide he backed up slightly.  "Peace Celdarion I shall speak with Aragorn." Legolas sighed in defeat, and Celdarion hid a smile.  The old ways always worked best.

~~~~~~~~~~

Accepting Legolas' promise that he would speak to his husband Celdarion left the young prince with his own thoughts, still in the tree.  Legolas sat soaking in the calming aura of the large tree allowing himself to relax and fall into a light dreaming state.  He was therefore unaware of the passage of time, and the twilight had now descended upon the city.

Anxious and concerned Aragorn decided to go in search of his elven Prince.  He knew that he would find the elf in the gardens, but it took him some time to actually locate the prince high up in the tree.

He noted with dismay the lofty position of the elf, and with a sigh he jumped up catching hold of the lowest branch before pulling himself up.  Grunting with the effort.

The noise of Aragorn's exertion and the rustling of the tree stirred the elven prince, and he looked down in surprise to find his husband trying to make his way up the tree towards his position.

Moving quickly and quietly whilst Aragorn was concentrating on his grip and hauling himself up Legolas lightly descended until he was crouching over the young man.

"Aragorn what are you doing?" he asked.

Aragorn started in shock, and his hands slipped free of the branch.  Even Legolas' reflexes were not quick enough and Aragorn felt himself falling.  He hit the floor hard and the air whooshed out of his lungs.  He groaned in pain.

Scared that he might just have killed his love Legolas jumped to the ground from the branch he was on.  He landed easily and quickly crouched by the fallen man.

"Aragorn, speak to me.  Are you well?  Where does it hurt?"  Aragorn's moans only increased the worry of the elven prince.  "Aragorn please, my love.  You must tell me where it hurts, open your eyes for me."

"Does this mean you are not angry with me anymore?" Aragorn said his voice laced with pain.

"Of course not.  Now please tell me where it hurts?"  Legolas asked, his hands running lightly over Aragorn's body trying to gauge the damage.

Aragorn moaned, the feeling of Legolas' hands on him arousing him despite the pain he was in.  He opened his eyes slightly taking in the wide blue gaze meeting his own.  He could see the anxiety in the elven gaze, concern for his well being displayed, and Aragorn felt a little comforted by the fact that he had not destroyed the love Legolas had for him.

He grasped Legolas' wandering hand.  "Where does it hurt?  It hurts here," Aragorn gently guided Legolas' hand to his heart, and then with a sense of renewed mischief he guided Legolas' hand down to the growing bulge in his leggings.  "And it hurts here," he said.

Legolas felt the bulge of   Aragorn's desire and ignoring the shiver of delight running down his spine he pulled his hand away.  He uttered a small sound of frustrated anger, and stood up again.

"I see then, that you are no worse off than you were before," he said frostily.

Aragorn winced, sensing that Legolas' did not want to play.  He sighed.  "I am sorry, my love.  I am well, truly.  I came only to apologize for my earlier behavior. I should not have acted as I did.  Can you forgive me?"  He directed his honest blue/grey eyes up at the elf.

Legolas felt his will soften in response to the sincerity in those eyes, and with a small sigh he nodded.  He then held out his hand to assist the man up.  Aragorn took his hand and with a groan levered himself into a sitting position before pulling himself off the floor.

However he fell again to the floor with a surprised cry of pain when his ankle buckled beneath his weight.

"Aragorn what is it?" Legolas cried out, seeing the genuine pain in the King's eyes.

"I fear I have damaged my ankle," Aragorn said ruefully.

Legolas tutted in disapproval.  "It is a shame you did not fall onto your head.  That may have knocked some sense into you.  What possessed you to climb the tree?"  Legolas asked in disbelief.

"I have climbed trees before," Aragorn claimed defensively.  "Just not for some time," he muttered after.

Legolas sighed and a small laugh escaped him.  "Husband mine, what am I to do with you?"

Aragorn looked up with a suggestive leer.  "I have a few ideas," he said.

~~~~~~~~~~

They finally reached their sitting rooms where Legolas called for the healer to attend to Aragorn's ankle.  The healer pronounced it a simple sprain, which required cold compresses and to be kept raised.  Legolas promised that he would enforce this rule until the healer declared otherwise and Aragorn glowered in response.

He did however allow Legolas to fuss over him, making sure he was comfortably seated and warm enough.  The elf then settled at his side, leaning comfortably against the man's chest.

Aragorn's hand dropped around Legolas' shoulder.  "Legolas, I know you were worried earlier, and may have not been thinking clearly.  But I wanted to make sure that you are not still upset about earlier," he said finally breaking the comfortable silence.

Legolas sighed.  "I must admit that a part of my heart is still disappointed that you did not believe me.  I was offended Aragorn, that you would compare me to a woman, but it hurt more that you did not trust me."

"Legolas' please believe me.  It is not that I do not trust you.  I trust you implicitly.  I admit that I did not think things through properly.  I do not know much of the way of elven pregnancies.  What I do know comes from the women of my people.  I did not mean to cause offence by comparing you to one.  I promise it shall never happen again."

"You must see that you do Aragorn or next time you may not fall from the tree.  I may throw you from it," the Prince stated harshly.  But the impact of his words was softened by the hand that found it's way into Aragorn's squeezing tightly.

The evening passed quietly and the excitement of the day faded.  That was until Amelia and Boromir called upon them to announce their engagement.