Legolas felt most comfortable amongst the trees having grown up in a thick forest.  When he traveled, just for something different and the added safety, he would travel from limb to limb of the canopy.  Elves tended to be a closed society and kept to their own small factions, but every once in a while they had to reach out to other kinsmen to keep ties alive.  So, on behalf of his family, Legolas was traveling to Rivendell for an official, but friendly visit between kinsmen and allies.

He heard the human before he saw him. Cautiously, he crept closer, intrigued by the presence of a stranger here. Below him he saw Lord Elrond’s twin sons sparing with a dark haired young man. From the way they moved about each other, it was clear this wasn’t their first time doing this. So this is Elrond’s foster son, Legolas mused.

"Elladan, Elrohir…" Aragorn called out with a tired laugh as he fought off their dual attacks.  "Why is it that you cannot agree in anything in life except to attack me rather than each other?"

"Because you, dear brother, are more fun to gang up on," Elrohir shot back. "But… I believe we have a visitor." He looked upward to where Legolas was perched in the trees watching them.

Aragorn was used to the darker colouring of Rivendell elves, and, even though he knew and had been exposed to the various complexions of the elven folk, this creature was still a shock to him.  The golden elf was dressed in clothing of earthen tones, and, although they were still obviously of quality material, that were much more practical than the jewel tones of the Rivendell silks.  The elf’s head was cocked to the side as he crouched on a branch, watching Aragorn.

"Hello, friend," Aragorn called out in Elvish.

Legolas hesitated a moment then leapt down from the branch he was on. He landed neatly on the ground in a crouch then rose and walked toward the others. "I am Legolas of Mirkwood," he said in greeting.

"Saesa omentien lle (Pleasure meeting you)," Elladan gave a formal Elven greeting, "Welcome, Kinsmen.  Our father said you would be coming on behalf of Mirkwood."

"Thank you," Legolas replied. He used the common tongue in deference to the human, not sure how well he understood Elvish.

"Maybe Legolas was watching long enough that he could see how unmercifully my brothers fight with me," Aragorn said with a slight smirk on his face.  By using the title brother it was a simple way to tell Legolas his place as family in this household.  Elves looked youthful, no matter their age and one of the only ways to tell their age was by their eyes and their spirit.

"They do take unfair advantage," Legolas smiled. "Perhaps we should show them the error of their ways." Legolas liked the young human’s attitude. He was feisty and not at all put off by who he was.

"Ho there, brother," Elladan all but hooted and pushed his twin on the shoulder.  "I think that Legolas has lived in a tree too long if he thinks he can challenge us and win!"

"What say you, young one?" Legolas asked Aragorn. "Shall we best them?"

"Young one?" Aragorn raised an eyebrow at Legolas.  He hated it when the elves called him that.  By human standards he numbered enough years to be considered an adult.  Men his age were most often already married with a wife and a few brats.  "My name is Estel."

"All of the race of Man are considered young to the Elves, Estel," Legolas said. "I meant no insult, friend."

"None taken," Aragorn said as he flashed a dazzling smile at Legolas.  He cut through the air with his sword with quick speed, hoping to impress his new acquaintance.  "Now we spar?"

Legolas drew his own sword and stood beside Aragorn facing the twins. He would have preferred his daggers, as he was deadly with them, but he didn’t want to actually hurt anyone. Besides, his swordsmanship could use a little work anyway.

"Watch out for Elladan," Aragorn warned, already launching an attack at Elrohir.  "He likes to trip his opponents!"

"I shall do that," Legolas laughed, enjoying the dismayed look on the twin’s face at Aragorn’s warning. He lunged forward at Elladan, cutting a wide arc just inches from the other elf’s stomach. He pulled his blow enough to ensure that no true damage would be done if he connected and laughed aloud when the other elf jumped backward.

Elrohir was busy teasing Aragorn, but still being careful to hold back.  Their father had always warned them never to forget their strength when they were playing with the young Estel.  Humans had many strengths, but Elrond had always told them great physical strength was not one of them.  Elrohir easily dodged a quick swipe of Aragorn’s sword that no human would have been able to evade.  "Come on, Estel.  You can do better than that!"

"Hold still for a moment and I’ll show you how well I can do," Aragorn shot back. He tried to concentrate on his own opponent and ignore Legolas but it was proving impossible. The golden elf possessed a grace he had never seen before. Fighting next to him, Aragorn suddenly felt as clumsy as an orc.

It was the distraction of Legalos next to him that was finally his undoing.  Elrohir saw the opening and distraction, making it easy to launch himself at Aragorn and knock the sword from his hand.  Suddenly Aragorn found himself flat on his back with his foster brother sitting on his chest.  Elrohir leaned in closed and whispered in Aragorn’s ear, "Looks like someone has a wee crush on that pretty elf…"

Aragorn felt his face flush as much from Elrohir’s words as the humiliation of being bested in front of the newcomer. "Get off," he growled, angrier with himself than his brother. He knew how much elves prized skill in combat and he had just shown that he possessed next to none.

"It’s about time you found someone, Estel," Elrohir said, not budging. "He comes from a good family…"

"Elrohir, will you shut up!" Aragorn hissed through clenched teeth. He knew how acute Elven hearing could be and prayed that Legolas hadn’t heard.

"No," Elrohir grinned at the human he considered his baby brother.  "Father says you are old enough to settle down for a human."

Tensing his body, Aragorn gave a great shove. He managed to surprise Elrohir enough to throw him off and he sprang to his feet. He realized belatedly that the battle between Elladan and Legolas had stopped and he knew the other elf had heard everything.

"Your family is trying to arrange a marriage for you?" Legolas asked with a completely serious face.  Arranged marriages between great elf houses were more often than not the norm.

"Some of my relatives are," Aragorn replied sheepishly. He glared at Elrohir, daring his foster brother to open his mouth again.

"You are comely enough, that should not be a problem," Legolas said.  "But an arrangement with a maid would not be received well by most families."  He was talking about the fact that most respectable elf women would not willingly want to risk bearing a halfling child.  Lord Elrond was the exception to the rule, which was one of the reasons he was sure the young human had been fostered at Rivendell.

"Oh, I wasn’t thinking of a maiden for him," Elrohir piped up before Aragorn could silence him. Mischief twinkled in his eyes at his brother’s embarrassment.

"I gathered as much."  He decided Rivendell elves were rather odd.  They acted rather too much like humans and their sense of humour was peculiar.

"Friend Legolas, please ignore my brother," Aragorn said in apology. The last thing he wanted was to offend the elf before he’d even gotten to know him. "His sense of humour is somewhat lacking at times."

"No doubt the Prince of Mirkwood has seen and done many things, brother," Elladan assured Aragorn. "Why don’t you take him onto Rivendell while we finish training?"

Aragorn nodded his thanks to Elladan before addressing Legolas again. "Would you care to accompany me to Rivendell, Legolas?"

"Yes, thank you.  I would like that, Estel," Legolas answered and was only slightly taken aback when Elladan smacked his brother’s ass with the flat of his sword as they walked away.

They walked in silence for a while with Aragorn unsure what to say. His brothers always enjoyed teasing him and he normally didn’t mind it. For some reason, though, he didn’t like them making a fool of him in front of Legolas.

The forest started to thin as they approached the beautiful waterfalls of Rivendell.  "Do you not miss the protection of the trees?" Legolas asked, obviously trying to make conversation.

"Sometimes," Aragorn admitted. "But I know I am safe in Rivendell. Were I elsewhere, I would long for their closeness. What of you? Do the trees call to you as well?"

"They are our life at Mirkwood," Legolas said.  "Rivendell is striking indeed, but the trees are alive unlike cold stone."

"Agreed," Aragorn said. "I think I would like to visit your Mirkwood sometime."

Legolas turned his head and gave Aragorn a soft, half-smile.  "I would like that.  Maybe you could meet your mate there."

Aragorn paused. "Legolas, I truly hope you did not take offence at anything my brothers said," he began. "I would like for there to be no hard feelings between us."

"Why would I take offence?" Legolas asked with a raised eyebrow.  The wind had picked up just enough to whip Legolas’ hair around his face.

"I know some elves do not care for such things," Aragorn said. "And my brother was more than blunt."

"Your brothers are still young," Legolas said with a shrug of his shoulders. "Someday they will hopefully learn tact.  Do you not wish a mate?"

"Yes, I wish to find a mate someday," Aragorn confided. He glanced coyly at Legolas and flushed slightly when he found the elf studying him intently.

"Perhaps you will," Legolas said cryptically.

~~~~~~~~~~

They arrived in Rivendell without incident. Aragorn brought Legolas before his foster father, Lord Elrond. He tried not to look at his companion as they stood before the elf lord. He knew his father could read him as easily as a book and he didn’t want to give any of his confusing new feelings away.

Elrond looked upon his foster-son son with the forever non-emotional face of most elves.  The young man, whom he had to struggle not to think of as a boy anymore, was hiding something.  Estel had elf blood in his heritage, but he still aged much faster than Elrond’s own children.  He might be old enough to be considered an adult in the human world, but like his own offspring, Aragorn would always be that mischievous young boy who used to tug on his braids.  He continued to watch as Aragorn’s gaze snapped to Legolas and then back to the floor.

Elrond schooled himself to keep from smiling. So that was the problem. He’d seen elves catch young Estel’s eye before. It was normally only a fleeting thing. A short glance between them then nothing more. Estel’s heart was quite choosy. Apparently, it had finally made a choice. He only hoped his youngest son would not fall too hard for their Mirkwood visitor.

After the official greeting, Elrond asked Legolas, "How long will you be staying with us?  I hope that I can persuade you to at least stay the season.  We have much to catch up with our kinsmen from Mirkwood."

Legolas cast a quick glance at the young man beside him. "I could be persuaded to stay," he replied. "I have no duties to attend to and my father knows where I am if he has need of me."

"Well, there are not many of your contemporaries at Rivendell and Arwen is often disposed to keep to herself," Elrond said, watching Legolas’ reaction carefully. "My sons are still rather youthful.  Perhaps you will spend time with Estel."

"I would enjoy that," Legolas replied, not missing the young man’s surprise at his remark. "He is quite knowledgeable for a man. I would like to know him better."

"Estel is the best of his race," Elrond said proudly and then added, "…but, he could improve on his archery skills.  You are as one of the most skilled bowmen living, perhaps you could instruct him."

"It would be an honour," Legolas said, bowing slightly in deference to Lord Elrond. He could see mischief twinkling in the older elf’s eyes and knew his suggestion had been more than merely concern over Estel’s archery skills. Still, he would not turn down an excuse to stay close to the young human.

"I’m a good bowmen," Aragorn suddenly protested and then realized it sounded almost petulant.  He was always trying to act like his mentor, Lord Elrond, and letting his emotions get away on him was not the way to do it.  "I mean to say, I’m a good bowmen, but could improve, of course."

"A good bowman and wise, as well," Legolas said. "A wise being knows there is always room for improvement in any endeavour. I look forward to the things you can teach me, my friend."

Aragorn was horrified when he actually blushed at the compliment. "Thank you.  I… I have to go.  May I go, Lord Elrond?"  He just wanted to hide in a dark hole somewhere.

"Of course," Elrond smiled. "Legolas and I have much to discuss. Please join us for dinner, though. I am sure our guest will be quite bored with me by then."

"Thank you," Aragorn muttered and all but bolted from the room.  He had every intention of taking a nice cold swim immediately.

"He is young," Elrond remarked when Aragorn was out of earshot. "His heart has never been tested before."

"He is made for great things," Legolas said, already sensing potential greatness in the young man.  "And yes, he is young."

"Yes," Elrond replied. "I know you two have just met but be easy with him, Legolas. He cares greatly for you already. I would not see his heart broken so young."

"It is nothing but a crush," Legolas denied the deep affection of Aragorn that Elrond claimed.  Legolas might be of a great age, but he was still young by Elven standards when compared to Lord Elrond.  "I am sure fate has some great love planned for him.  Afterall, he is the last of his line and must carry on the bloodline."

"Indeed, he is," Elrond agreed. "But fate is a strange and fickle thing. I wouldn’t be surprised if it was already at work on our young friend."

"Yes, I can call him friend and that is it," Legolas said, looking out to view the great waterfall of Rivendell.  "Your sons were saying that you were possibly seeking a mate for Estel.  Maybe he could come visit.  We have a few eligible folk at Mirkwood."

"We have a few eligible folk here as well," Elrond chuckled. "And I believe the fairest Mirkwood has to offer is already within our boundaries."

The royal house of Rivendell had four eligible children and they were considered to be quite a catch among the great families of the Elven folk, especially with the declining number of young elves born in the past millennia.  Anyone would be in near rapture if Lord Elrond was complimenting him or her, but Legolas was merely uncomfortable.    "I am not," he denied.

"Your humility does you well, but it is unnecessary. You are quite beautiful, young one. Mirkwood would be a much darker place without your shining presence. But enough of this. I do not wish to make you uncomfortable. Tell me of your father’s house. I haven’t heard any Mirkwood news in ages."

~~~~~~~~~~

"Don’t worry about, Estel," Elrohir said as he drank from his goblet.  They were all ready to eat and just waiting for Aragorn to show.  "You can count on two things during meal time in Rivendell, one that our sister Arwen almost always dines alone and that our baby brother will be late."

Legolas merely smiled and glanced again toward the doorway. He was worried about the young human. He knew he had made him uncomfortable earlier and he sincerely hoped Estel wasn’t trying to avoid him. If that were the case, he would set out for Mirkwood as soon as was polite.

As if on cue, Aragorn walked into the room tugging at the fresh tunic he’d just put on moments before.  He wasn’t wearing his best clothes, but he was certainly dressed better than he usually was for dinner.  Elrond often chastised him to put more consideration into his appearance, but most of the time he didn’t care.  He was more interested in training to become a ranger, even though his foster father explained the importance of one’s first impression.  So Aragorn had discarded the usual brown and stained hunting tunic he wore for a blue and green tunic of Elven silk that one of the servant girls had told him once complimented his eyes.

Legolas’ eyes lit on the young human and widened tellingly. He had been attracted to the young man before but seeing him like this, dressed in Elven finery, Legolas realized he was breathtaking. Standing, as he would if Lord Elrond were approaching, he motioned toward the empty seat beside him. "Greetings, friend," he said softly.

"Sorry that I’m late," Aragorn said, his eyes locked with Legolas’ own.  Even though Legolas had motioned to the chair next to him, Aragorn just stood there and starred at the elf.  He wasn’t the only one who had dressed up and Legolas was wearing and stunning soft jade green tunic.

"You’re here now," Legolas said. "Come, let us take our evening meal together. I have missed your company." Legolas realized what he’d said and flushed slightly, casting a glance at Elrond to make sure he hadn’t offended the man. His own father would not have been pleased by the comment but Elrond seemed to merely take it in stride.

Aragorn moved to quickly sit next to Legolas and had to adjust his chair, but it wasn’t his fault if he just happened to move his chair closer to the other man.  "It’s going to be a warm night," he said after a moment.  He had to stop himself from wincing when he realized how stupid that sounded.  He wanted to spend time with Legolas and thought the promised archery lessons would be a perfect excuse.

"Indeed," Legolas smiled. Both of them had tuned out the rest of those present at the table. "Perhaps you could show me around your beloved Rivendell. It has been some time since I have been here. I would love to see it through fresh eyes."

"Why don’t you take Legolas swimming?" Elladan suggested with a smirk, taking a sip of wine from his own goblet.

Aragorn flushed brightly and glared at Elladan across the table. He started to reply then felt a gentle touch on his arm. Looking down, he saw Legolas’ hand on him. He felt his anger leave as swiftly as it had come. "Perhaps you are right," Aragorn replied, smiling at his new friend. "I am sure we would both enjoy the peacefulness of the spring."

"Elladan… Elrohir, after evening meal, I require your presence in the armoury," Elrond said from the head of the table.  He hadn’t give out this particular punishment in decades, but it was time his sons left Aragorn and Legolas alone.  "The entire sword collection is due for another polishing and sharpening."

"Yes, Adar (Father)," Elladan replied contritely. He tried not to wince when Elrohir kicked him under the table. He made sure to keep his comments to himself for the rest of the meal lest his father decide the armour required cleaning as well.

Legolas noticed that Aragorn ate much more than any of the Elves at the table.  No one said anything as they were used to Aragorn’s greater appetite, but Legolas thought it was quite charming, especially the way his licked his fingers after enjoying the sweat treats.  For a brief moment Legolas wondered what it would be like to feed such delicacies to the young man. He imagined Aragorn licking his fingers as he slipped a honeyed morsel into his mouth. Surreptitiously, he slipped two of the small treats from the table and into the pocket of his tunic. Perhaps an opportunity would present itself to find out.

"The food was excellent as always, Adar," Aragorn mumbled, eying the nearest exit and then Legolas.

Elrond smiled at him fondly, remembering how he had actually thought the boy was sick when he had become an adolescent and starting eating what seemed to be non-ending amounts of food.  Only after confirming with some books in his archives had he learned that was normal for young male humans.

"Thank you, Estel," Elrond smiled, taking pity on him. "Make sure you do not stray too far with your guest."

"Of course, Adar," Aragorn said quickly and got up from his chair.  "Thank you.  Legolas, let me show you the beauty of our home."

Legolas followed Estel out of the hall and toward the outskirts of the palace. He picked up the faint sound of water and realized that his companion was indeed taking him to the spring he had mentioned. Legolas wasn’t sure of that was wise but he followed Estel all the same. He was no virgin to the ways between males but he was certain that Estel was. Elrond had told him that very thing when he’d spoken of the young man’s heart. Legolas would have to be careful.

The moon was just starting to crest over the hills surrounding Rivendell.  The colours of the sky were dancing across the water, making it look like ripples of gentle jewel tones.  Aragorn led Legolas down to the water edge at the base of one of the gentler waterfalls and the small cove had privacy from a few well-planted trees.  "This is one of my favourite spots," Aragorn said, looking back and smiling at Legolas.

"It is beautiful," Legolas remarked. "I can see why you come here. It makes my soul feel at peace. Thank you for sharing it with me."

They stood there for several moments in comfortable silence when Aragorn asked, "Do you have a mate, Legolas?"

"No," Legolas replied honestly. "I have lain with others before but I have never taken a mate. I fear no one has ever intrigued me enough to stay for very long."

"Oh…" Aragorn’s face fell in the soft light.  He knew head no hope then.  He was only a human and from a cursed line at that.  Even if was Legolas’ lover, he would grow old as Legolas stayed beautiful.

"Why does that pain you?" Legolas asked. "I would have thought you’d be pleased to find I had no mate to contend with." He was genuinely puzzled by the man’s behaviour and wondered if he had misinterpreted him somehow.

"I am pleased," Aragorn said, trying to push down the sick feeling in his stomach.  "I can only hope that you find someone worthy of you."

"Estel, I think you misunderstand me," Legolas frowned. "Or perhaps it is I that have misunderstood. I will speak plainly for a moment. I have not found anyone who intrigued me… until now. Forgive me if I am being bold, but I would like to get to know you. As a friend, if that is all you wish, or as more, if I have read you right."

Aragorn looked down and then looked back at Legolas.  "You’re beautiful… Do you know that?  Not just outwardly, but inwardly.  Someone like you deserves someone worthy of you.  I’m a human."

"Shouldn’t I be the one to decide who is worthy of me and who is not?" Legolas asked. He moved closer to Aragorn until they were inches apart. Reaching out, he cupped the younger man’s face in his hand and stroked it.

"I’ll grow old, ugly and die," Aragorn said simply.  He had never told anyone his deepest fears.  He loved his foster family, but living amongst often reminded him how different he was.  He had come here barely more than a babe and his siblings had remained unchanged as he grew to adulthood.

"You will grow bold and beautiful. You will age, yes, but with it will come a wisdom that few beings ever possess. You will never grow ugly and the day you leave this realm will be sad one for all of Middle Earth." Legolas didn’t know where his words sprang from but they felt true. He had never spoken so openly… so honestly… to another being in all of his days. That he did so now, with Aragorn, felt right.

"I’d be just a flicker in your bright life," Aragorn shook his head.  "My family has not changed during my lifetime and they will not when I am on my deathbed.  No matter how much I wish it, I am not an elf.  I would be but a mere amusement in an elf’s life if one took me as a mate… maybe I should listen to the others and find a human girl to marry.  Do my duty…"

"Elvish blood runs in your veins as well as the blood of Man. You will not live a Man’s lifespan, Estel. You are not Elf, that is true, but one would be proud to have you as a mate. Do you not listen to our songs? There are Elves that have given up their very mortality to stay by the sides of their beloveds."

"I would never be someone’s beloved," Aragorn denied.  "Those are legends… great people.  I will be like my father before and simply continue on the line.  Maybe my son will have the courage, wisdom and strength to take the thrown."

"Oh, Estel," Legolas breathed. He leaned forward and kissed the young man gently on the mouth. He hated hearing such words of despair from his new friend. He knew one day Estel would do great things and Legolas longed to be at his side when he did. In the meantime, he would do what he could to offer comfort and solace.

Aragorn sighed into the kiss and wrapped his arms around Legolas’ waist.  "Please, don’t put such hope into me," he begged when the soft kiss ended. "They named me ‘hope’ and I cannot give it to them.  I’m not strong enough."

"You are stronger than you think," Legolas whispered against his cheek. "And when you can not be strong for yourself, I shall be strong for you."

"I have to be strong by myself…" Aragorn nearly moaned, clutching at Legolas. "Adar says…"

"Your father says many things, as does my own," Legolas cut him off. "It is wise to heed their wisdom but to not let it overshadow your own. A warrior must be strong and stand on his own, but there is no shame in letting a trusted friend be strong for you."

"Adar says I am not a warrior, that I was fated to be King of Gondor," Aragorn said in a soft voice.  He had just laid his head on Legolas’ story and closed his eyes.  "He says the time of the elves is coming to an end, that everything we know will die soon.  I’m supposed to fix all of the transgressions of my ancestors.  I fear they will all go to the Grey Havens and leave me here…"

"I will not leave you," Legolas told him softly. "I would stay here with you until your time here is spent if you would have me. Perhaps you are meant to lead the race of Man. I cannot say. I know that I would follow you as friend or king. We have known each other so short a time and yet I feel as though I have been missing you all my life. Now that I have finally found you, I do not wish to let you go."

"Please, don’t leave me," Aragorn whispered against Legolas’ skin.  "I just found you.  I think the fates brought you me… I prayed to the Valar for someone to love me and then you show up with so many promises of everything I want…"

"I shall not leave you unless you tell me to go," Legolas vowed. He knew there would be difficulties. His father would not be pleased but he would deal with Thranduil when the time came. Even his father could not make him break his vow.

It only took a brief movement for Aragorn to move his head to Legolas’ ear and start to lick and suck on the tip of Legolas’ ear.  He’d always wanted to do this, knowing what an erotic zone it was for elves.  He had an overwhelming urge to touch Legolas and give him pleasure.

Legolas gasped and arched into Aragorn’s touch. He gripped the young human tightly as wild bolts of pleasure coursed through his body. He felt his sex grow hard in his leggings and knew he had to stop this before things went farther than Aragorn was prepared for.

Aragorn was intent on doing everything he could to make Legolas stay.  "No one has touched me this way before…" he whispered into Legolas’ ear.  "Neither man or woman, elf or human."

"Aragorn… Estel… please…" Legolas whimpered, trying to calm his raging body. "I do not wish to hurt you."

"You would not hurt me," Aragorn whispered back, nipping gently at the tip of the ear. "Elladan and Elrohir told me you can do things between males without hurting one another."

"Y-ye-yes," Legolas stammered. "But it requires patience and you are stealing mine rapidly." He pushed away from Aragorn slightly and took a deep breath. "There is almost always pain the first time. Not much, but some. I need to be calm, though. Estel, you know you do not have to do this. I will be at your side regardless of if we are lovers or simply friends. Do not do this just to keep me here."

"I don’t want you to call me Estel," Aragorn said, ignoring Legolas’ rational argument.  It’s not that he hated the name his foster father had given him, but every time he heard it, it reminded him of what he was supposed to be, not the man he was.  "And don’t you want me?  Is it because I’m human?"

He would never admit it, but he was self-conscious about his race.  He thought most humans as backwards brutes with no refinement.  When he was young he had grown his hair long like male elves, but it had also helped to cover his distinctly human ears.

"I want you very much," Legolas assured him. "But I do not wish to frighten you with my passion. As you said, you are new to this. I would go slowly so you might enjoy it. Tell me, would you prefer I call you Aragorn or did you have something else in mind?"

"You can call me Aragorn if you wish," Aragorn answered with a shrug of his shoulders.  It wasn’t a name he was used to answering to.  It was the name of the heir to the thrown of humans and he didn’t feel like that man either.

"Hmmm… it seems you do not care for that one either," Legolas mused. "Perhaps I should call you Melethron nin (my love)? Would you like that, Melethron nin?"

Aragorn hoped the darkening night would cover his blush. "I would like that, but… but I do not think you should call me that in front of others."

"Very well, Mellon nin (my friend)," Legolas replied. He would have to think of something to call the young man in the presence of others. But in the darkness of the night, here at this private place, he knew he could call him beloved without worry.

"This does not seem real," Aragorn said quietly, still clinging to Legolas.  "I have known you less than a day.  This is not the way real life goes… this only happens in legends."

"Then let us create another legend tonight," Legolas implored. "I think perhaps we should make use of the spring. Our blood runs hot. We would do well to cool it while we still may."

Aragorn made to shift his head closer to Legolas’ ear again. "Why do we have to stop?"

"Because you enflame me, Melethron nin," Legolas gasped as Aragorn brushed his tongue over his sensitive ear yet again. "If we do not, I fear I will take you right here."

Aragorn was now tracing Legolas’ ear with his tongue.  He didn’t fully realize what this was doing to his new lover.  He just knew for the first time he felt completely wanted and desired.  He didn’t feel like a human who wished he was an elf, he was starting to feel like himself, whoever that was.  "I would not care."

"I would," Legolas ground out as he fought for control. He was not an old elf and his blood ran hot easily. He had not had a lover in some time and this fact only added to his distress. He would not take Aragorn on the ground. His love deserved a soft bed and tender touches, not the rushed caresses of a body too long denied.

Aragorn wanted… no, had to do something with Legolas soon.  "We would have to swim naked, wouldn’t we?" he quickly grasped onto the wonderful idea of a wet and naked Legolas.

"Yes," Legolas said, grinning at him. "We would not want to get our clothing wet. That wouldn’t be proper."

Legolas stepped away from him and in his eagerness he had forgotten his distaste of being seen naked in front of other.  It wasn’t modesty, because being raised around elves, he wasn’t ashamed of his nakedness, he was instead ashamed of his body that was so different from the beauty of the elves.

"Why don’t you start?"  He suggested and planned on quickly shedding his clothes and diving into the water while Legolas was distracted.

"Together," Legolas said. "I would see my new lover, if I may."

"You’ve made promises… without knowing what you’re getting into," Aragorn said uncertainly and started to unbutton his tunic.  "I understand."  He shaved his face every day to keep embarrassing facial hair at bay and had even contemplated on shaving his chest hair, but had never had a lover to prompt the action until now.

"I have seen the race of Man before," Legolas assured him. "While they are different from elves, I do not find them unattractive. I know what I have pledged and I will stand by it. Does my more slender appearance put you off?"

"What?" Aragorn actually snorted.  Legolas was the pinnacle of Elven beauty and Aragorn judged beauty by Elven standards.  "You are more beautiful than anyone I have ever seen before."

"But my frame is more suited to a female of your race," Legolas continued as he slowly disrobed. "Do you see me as a female, Aragorn? Or has my beauty blinded you to even that distinction?"

Legolas was thinking that Aragorn was looking at him with the eyes of man, but in fact, he was looking at Legolas with the eyes of an elf.  To him Legolas was very a much a man and the truth was, he had very few memories of human women.  "You are male, Legolas, why would you think I see you as a female?" Aragorn asked him this with his head cocked to the side.  "You are a proud Elven warrior.  You are quick, strong and lithe."

"I am much slighter than you," Legolas explained. "You are stout, like a strong tree. I must appear as slender as a reed to you. I am glad you see me as a male, though."

"You might be slender," Aragorn noted with a smirk as he started to disrobe, "But you could snap me like a twig if you wished it."

Legolas nodded in agreement and shed the rest of his clothes. He stood before Aragorn completely naked and let his young lover look all he liked. He was pleased to catch a glimpse of Aragaon’s sex as it twitched in his leggings. At least he was not the only one affected.

"At least our races are compatible," Aragorn said, watching Legolas strip off the last of his clothing.  He was in fact very grateful at this exact moment that human and elves were sexually compatible.

"Indeed, but I trust we would have managed even if they had not been," Legolas told him. "I would not have let you go over something so trivial. Now come, let us swim for a while and cool our ardour."

"It’s not my ardour I’m worried about," Aragorn muttered under his breath as he adjusted his swelling cock.  Legolas was already wading into the water and his eyes were glued onto the perfectly pale body and ass.

"Join me, Melethorn nin," Legolas called out, his voice floating on the night air like a soft breeze.

Aragorn waded into the water, noting the water was not overly cool for the summer night.  "Maybe you should say, Maeluiron (lusty one) instead?  Because you are truly stunning."

"Ah, but is it only lust you have for me?" Legolas asked as he waded in close. "I had thought it much more than that."

"It is more… it is so much more," Aragorn breathed softly.  He was frozen in place as Legolas came closer to him.  "You are everything I’ve dreamed and prayed for…"

Legolas reached him and pulled him into an embrace. Both of them moaned when their bodies touched under the water. Legolas held his lover close, letting hands slide down his strong back until he reached the swell of his ass. Pausing for a moment, he gently kneaded the firm globes, pulling Aragon even closer as he did.

Aragorn mirrored Legolas’ actions and pulled his lover close to him as well, moaning loudly when their cocks slid together.  "This is… this is…"

"Yes," Legolas hissed before capturing his lover’s mouth. This kiss was nothing like their first press of lips. This kiss was hot and demanding as Legolas thrust his tongue inside Aragon’s mouth. The taste of the young human exploded across his tongue and went straight to his cock.

"Please…" Aragorn begged when Legolas finished kissing him.  At this exact moment, he didn’t know what he was begging for, but he just hoped Legolas would give it to him.

Legolas understood the fire burning in his lover. Snaking a hand between them he grasped both their straining erections and began to stroke. He nearly lost his grip on Aragon when the young man began to buck and squirm but he gripped his ass tightly and held on, intent on driving him over the edge.

Aragorn started to babble in Elven and standard Middle Earth dialects, begging and praising Legolas.  If he hadn’t know any better he would have sworn the elf was a wizard for the simple pure ecstasy was able to bring with just his hand.  It had never been this way on his own.

"That’s it, Melethorn nin, cum for me," Legolas encouraged. He kissed Aragon again and felt the body in his arms stiffen. A second later, his lover’s cock was pulsing in the water and his own quickly followed.

Aragorn clung to Legolas and it was only his lover’s immortal strength that kept him from sliding into the water.  Aragorn was gasping for breath and his eyes were dazed.  "I never would have believe such a beautiful creature was so… so… I thought with an elf it would be…"

"It would be what?" Legolas asked, suddenly worried he hadn’t pleased the young man in his arms.

"Subtle… soft…" Aragorn struggled to verbalize his misconceptions. "Controlled?"

"Sometimes it is," Legolas said, relieved. "But elves feel passion just like any other being. With you, I do not think it will ever be subtle or controlled. You stir me too greatly."

"It’s good to know I can make you loose control," Aragorn and started to go to Legolas’ ear again like a magnet.  He had always been fascinated with elf’s ears, but now he was developing a quick fetish.

"Stop that," Legolas laughed. "If you do that in the water we’ll both drown. Besides, we need to get back before your father sends the twins to find us."

"But I like your ears…" Aragorn whispered, making sure his breath danced over the wet ears.  He didn’t want to leave yet, even with the threat of the twins looming over his head.  "Why do they call you Green Leaf?"

"It is what my name means in the Common tongue," Legolas replied. "Greenleaf is easier for the other denizens of Middle Earth to pronounce."

"You keep forgetting that I was raised amongst elves," Aragon laughed softly.  "To me it sounds like an Elven nickname that the youngest son of Mirkwood might not have grown out of…"

"Perhaps," Legolas smiled. "My mother always called me her little leafling."

"Perhaps one of the things that I already love about you is that you don’t take yourself too seriously," Aragon said, nuzzling and sucking on Legolas’ neck. "Like some other elves."

Legolas was about to respond when a sound startled him. He let go of Aragon and moved in front of his young lover, intent on protecting him. A moment later Elladan and Elrohir emerged from the trees and Legolas breathed a sigh of relief.

"Why look, brother!" Elladan called out loudly to Elrohir.  "They are exactly where you said they would be!"

"And they are exactly in the condition you said they would be in!" Elrohir all but shouted back with delight. "Won’t Adar be pleased that we have found them?"

"I believe Estel said we would be swimming," Legolas replied, his voice dangerously low. "Did you expect to find us differently?" He had taken their teasing in stride, but he knew their words upset his Estel and he would not allow them to go unchallenged.

Aragorn wasn’t used to anyone protecting him like that.  When Aragorn had come to Lord Elrond as a small, crying child the twins had teased him, Elrond had told him a king should be able to handle anything.  As well, Elrond was often overly indulgent of all of his children and punishments were rare.  "Legolas, they were only being themselves," he whispered into his lover’s ear.  "I am used to it."

"They shall not tease you in my presence," Legolas remarked, loud enough for the twins to hear. He would not allow anyone to tarnish what they had together, even Aragon’s well-meaning, if childish, siblings.

Elladan and Elrohir exchanged meaningful looks and then smiled in unison.  "We shall not," Erohir said. "It is good to see that you have some one who loves you so much already, Estel."

The twins were not surprised that Legolas and Estel had apparently fallen in love in under a day.  It was a common thing amongst elves and many unions that had lasted thousands of years and started so.

"Come, Melethorn nin," Legolas whispered. "Let us dress and return to the palace lest your father come searching for us as well."

THE END