"Are you a girl?" Logolas looked up at the child who'd asked. It was the first time the young elf had been allowed to travel outside of Mirkwood, and they were in a human village. "Of coarse not!" He piped, long ears reddening and cheeks going rosy with embarrassment. He was the equivalent of seven years old by human standards, and his long blonde hair did indeed make him appear female. The human boy snorted. "You're weird." Legolas pouted and hid behind his father, not used to the cruel words of others. In his home, he'd never been made fun of. He was a prince after all. "Dadddy.." He whined loudly and the kind turned to him. "Don't whine Legolas. You're not an elflet." This caused more pouting from the young elf and he was forced to ride his pony for the rest of the way. They were headed to Rivendale, the home of another group of elves. The sun was setting in the distance and as night fell, the child become tired, almost falling asleep a few times before he was handed a small flask. "Drink.." An older boy commanded, and he did as he was told, taking a swig of a liquid so foul he coughed and sputtered, waking up instantly.

When they finally arrived it was already morning. The over night trip had been hard and Legolas had been very restless the whole way. They were to go and have Legolas fitted for a circlet, made of the finest silvers available. This was his official ceremony, the one marking him as a prince.

That night, there was much merry making and singing, all in the honor of the new prince. Legolas smiled proudly, his young face happy and joyful. He retained the same look through out the night until his assignment was given to him. He was to travel back home alone, with no help from his father or any other guards. He cried loudly, begging to be taken care of. He was a sheer 700 years old, still a child in an elf's perspective.


----


Legolas woke from his slumber, face draw into a frown. He'd had a terrible dream, a memory of his childhood. Since his quest in the woods, Legolas had become almost a man. He was 2140 today and he knew there was to be a large party in his honor. He sighed and stood, staring at himself in a mirror. He was quite a mess and he knew he should clean himself. He got in the wash basin, shuddering as cold water splashed over him. He washed his hair, being sure he used the best of soaps to get out tangles and give a scent as fresh as a flower in spring. Once bathed, he braided his wet hair up, sliding on a tunic and tights before scuffling to the great hall. "It's about time you got up." His father hissed as he made his way into the kitchen. "Whatever.." He replied sleepily. He and his father were far from close. "You're going to Rivendale today." His father said softly as Legolas slathered jam over some lamblos. The young elf scowled. "Fine.." He dropped his food and stormed up to his room. It appeared as though he'd need traveling clothes today.

---

It took weeks for Legolas to reach Rivendale, his companion not very attentive of him most of the way. He was going to met a human prince today, though said prince had been raised among elves. It was said the other boy aged as the elves did, being half elf himself, though his youth could not be forever saved in the same way. It was odd to think about. As they came closer to the city, Legolas bounced nervously on his horse, afraid of what he might see as they finally entered the gates.

The sun shone brightly the morning of Aragorn's 20th birthday, the cliff-side outpost glowing in an almost magical elven way. Aragorn had been given a surprise on this day by Lord Elrond- his heritage. Aragorn walked meekly through the halls of Rivendell, going over everything Elrond had revealed to him. Only yesterday he was know as Estel, but his true heritage, as a half-elf prince named Aragorn- heir of Isildur and a dying race, was revealed to him this very morning. He grew restless as the day proceeded. His coming of age was not going as he planned. He was an heir to an entire kingdom, and it was to be kept secret. Not that that would be a problem- many things were kept secret concerning him.

There were rumors of a visitor from the Woodland Realm Mirkwood, coming to Rivendell- Aragorn would hope to appreciate the distraction. A young prince Legolas, son of the Elvinking Thrandull, would be here today.

((The timelines are a bit off, since Legolas is apparently supposed to be well over 2000 years old by the time Aragorn was born. But seeing as this is a roleplay, that's okay :) ))

Gandalf turned to Legolas. "Don't look to restless. You're a prince, not a child." The elf scowled, but did as he was told. They were greeted by a she-elf, Arwin. "Welcome." She said with a smile, extending a hand to help Gandalf from his horse as Legolas had already effortlessly dropped down from his own. "Welcome to Rivendale." She gave a short bow and Legolas gave one in return, getting a swift hit on the head from Gandalf's staff. "Don't bow back your fool." Legolas was beginning to catch on to the nature of this journey. He was being taught manners. Arwin gave Legolas a quick look over, giving the prince the idea he was being checked out. "Would you like to change before supper Prince Legolas? Surely these leather garments are less than comfortable." He instantly realized he wasn't being checked out, rather this girl was to be sure they were clothes properly. Gandalf answered the question for him. "Yes please. We've traveled long and hard without rest and without a good bath." She nodded and placed a hand on the blonde elf's shoulder. "I can show you to your quarters..." Gandalf was taken by another young she-elf and Legolas wasn't sure he wanted to be separated from the only person he knew here. Arwin took his attention and started dragging him off. "You probanly don't remember me." She said with a smile. "I'm a couple of thosand years older than you, but I remember your first trip here. You certainly have grown a lot." He flushed. "I suppose so..." he muttered and she gave him an unreadable look. "You're not happy to be here are you?" She was still smiling at him, not offended. "Oh, I don't mind it here...I just...know I'm not here for the fun of it." She laughed at his response. "You're still very young aren't you Legolas?" With that she pulled him into a room and turned him over to a group of maids who giggled and started working on pulling away layers of clothing. "Stop! How dare you disrobe me!" He shrieked, and this cause more laughter from Arwin. "Calm Prince. They're simply cleaning you up. Don't you have maids at home?" They finished and pushed him into a basin filled with hot water that burned his skin unpleasantly. The scrubbing didn't help his mood much. He was pink all over and and his hair was all in his eyes when they finished. Some spell had his hair instantly dried. It was put up in intricate braids and then he was dressed. A tight corset, a tunic, tights, and boots. The clothing was all sky blue and shimmered. "Can't...breathe..." He hissed out. Arwin, who was still in the room, laughed. "It's a corset Legolas. A body shaper. To cut back on your baby chub." The elf's jaw dropped. "I'm not fat!" His voice raised about six octives, but he was ignored and ushered off to the dining room with Arwin who'd already been dressed. She turned to him quickly before entering and placed his circlet back on his head. "There, now, you look simply gorgeous!" She opened the dining hall doors and sat Legolas beside her father and Gandalf, across from the seat that was to be Aragorn's.

(Sorry XD I changed the age. Also, I'm sorry I add so many unnecessary details when I type 030)

Aragorn ran his hands through his damp curly hair- he preferred natural dry to spell dry hair- checking his features before leaving his chambers. The green tunic he had donned was crisp, made of a light elven fabric that shimmered in certain light. He wore silver tights and a silver vest over his loose tunic, a black belt tightened around his waist with a small sword tied to it, with matching black boots laced over his calves to his knees. His blue eyes sparkled in the light of the evening stars shining through his open doors of his chamber balcony.

Satisfied that he had cleaned up well- especially with his freshly shaved face- Aragorn stepped from his quiet room and walked toward the dining hall. He was expecting the new company, which is why he put extra attention into his appearance (also because he was of 20 years today) and entered the Hall at stride, glancing around at the familiar company before walking to the front table with a slight smile on his face. His eyes fell first on the well-known wizard Gandalf, a visitor they had not seen since Aragorn was just a toddler- in fact, it had been just after his fathers death. Wondering if there was something important about his presence today, Aragorn decided he would ask later. For there was a new elf prince to greet.

"It is an honor to meet you-" Aragorn looked from Gandalf to the young elf, his eyes widening. He coughed slightly, excusing himself as he bowed. The young 'prince' with his tight tunic, had a very feminine appearance. It was rather shocking. "I am Es- er- Aragorn." He sat down promptly, facing Gandalf and the prince of Mirkwood.

(it's okay, I ramble sometimes too hehe)

Gandalf was happy to see Aragorn, having not seen him since he was no more than a babe. A toddler recently orphaned. "Hello Aragorn. It's good to see you've grown up strong and healthy. You're a very important man." Legolas had not been paying attention and jumped as he was addressed, looking up into a handsome face. "Ah. Er, Good evening." He flushed, feeling a bit dumb. Gandalf have him a look. "Oh, and, nice to meet you too..." He was happy when he was saved by servants bringing in food. He stared at the plate in front of him, his stomach not really in the mood to eat. He tugged around the waist of his tunic, trying his best to lossen the corset underneath. Gandalf slapped at his hands and Legolas let out a breath, feeling a little low on air. He poked at his food with a fork for a bit, taking one or two bites now and then to try and seem normal. "Eat..." Gandalf hissed, trying to keep Legolas from seeming odd. Elrond, sitting on the other side of Legolas looked at him oddly. "Is something wrong?" He asked, glaring at the young prince as if he were being rude. "Oh, no sir, I'm just a slow eater." He focused on his food again, managing to finish it. His stomach felt awful and he could scarcely breathe without wheezing. As the dinner time came to a close, the festive part of the night began. The dining room was cleared and they were ushered into a ball room, filled with elves. The music was cheery and young couples danced and giggled. Legolas could feel eyes instantly on them as they entered the room. He wasn't sure if that was good or bad, but soon found himself dancing with young lasses and lads alike.

By his third dance, Legolas was panting and starting to see black at the edges of his eyes. The young man he was dancing with looked on with concern. "Are you ok?" He asked and Legolas nodded weakly. "I'm fine, I just, need to go freshen up..." He turned to walk back up the stairs, going out to the balcony where there was fresh air. When that didn't help, he yanked the tunic clean off and yanked at the corset. The knots were tied far to tight, but he had to get it off or he knew he'd faint. He pulled a dagger from in his boot and cut the laces, prying the offensive object off. Once it was gone, he pulled in air in a huge sigh, head spinning. He steadied himself, then held the balcony railing, staring into the night sky. He didn't bother putting his tunic back on. No one would be coming this way he convinced himself, and he had his tights on anyway. He looked down at himself. He wasn't quite sure why he'd had to wear such a torturous thing in the first place, worrying now that he might be fat. He walked off into the garden, leaving the silk tunic hanging over the railing. He found a decent place to sit in the Garden, and curled up, enjoying the quiet of the night. He'd never been big on parties, and he knew he'd be in trouble if he didn't return soon, but he just wasn't sure he wanted to be in the middle of all those people. Plus the fact that he was feeling a little self conscious and couldn't exactly put the torn corset back on.

Aragorn watched the events of the night unfold, not really paying much attention. Except to the odd prince- he had learned from Elrond that he was Legolas, son of Elvenking Thrandull- who seemed to be acting a little... off. So Aragorn kept his eyes on him, concerned for the 'young' elven prince. He didn't partake in much of the festivities of the night, his mind overwhelmed with his future, but he noticed when Legolas left the party, swaying slightly as he rushed outside to the outer gardens. Frowning for a moment, Aragorn decided to pursue- he did not want to bring attention to Legolas, seeing as everyone was already looking at him quite oddly; Legolas was not a very formal prince, after all.

Outside, Aragorn lifted the silken fabric of the princes tunic and noticed the torn corset on the ground. He smiled knowingly, since Legolas had most likely never forgone the customary outfit of elves from Rivendell. He walked out into the garden, since it was the only place wander from the balcony doors- unless you were adventurous enough to climb up the palace walls. He noticed a small form 'glowing' in the starlight and sat down on a garden bench not ten feet away. "Not to startle you, Prince Legolas, but the festivities have grown dull without your presence." He smiled slightly, averting his eyes to the blooming elven night-flowers.

Legolas had been deep in thought when Aragorn had come forth, but his ears were sharp, alerting him of a presence before the human prince has even taken a seat. He pulled his knees to his chest, hiding his body to the best of his abilities. It was considered highly lewd for an elf- even a male- to be seen without a shirt or tunic. His face flushed red and he instantly wished for his tight top. "Ah..Good evening Aragorn.." He didn't make eye contact, looking away shyly. "Your name is Estle isn't it? In elvish I mean..." He tried to make small talk. "That's a very pleasant name...easier to say than Aragorn I think." He'd never been very good at speaking the language of the humans. His elvish was much better and he had a weird accent if he spoke westeren anyway. "Do you care if I call you Estle?" He asked quietly, ears still taking in the sounds around him. The last thing he wanted was to be caught out here alone with another man, half clothed. He placed a hand on Aragorn's shoulder. "I don't mean to be rude you know..." He sighed. "I'm not used to being outside my castle. The last time I was out like this, I was only an elfling..." He fiddled with his hands nervously, not sure what to say next.

Aragorn sighed, running his hand through his wavy shoulder length hair. "I suppose Estel is a fine name to go by. That has been my name until this very morning, anyways." He glanced at Legolas and flushed slightly, noticing the princes discomfort. He lifted his other hand and held out the elf's silk tunic, figuring he'd be more comfortable fully clothed- he had brought the shirt with him, since it was slightly chilly on this summer night. "Would you like this back?"

A moments peace was not to be given, though, as Gandalf had lit some of his magnificent fireworks a few gardens over. A large dragon came zooming past the two princes, making wizzes! and pops! through the night air, leaving behind a pleasant smoky scent. "Gandalf is full of surprises, I'll give him that." Aragorn chuckled slightly, glad to have a distraction to such a stressful day.

The prince smiled and nodded. "I knew you'd probably be told of your history today. It's a very special birthday in a man's life..turning twenty..well, I suppose it wasn't as special for me...I was still a little child at twenty. I don't even remember it...elves age very slowly..." He looked at the offered tunic. "Oh! Thank you so much!" He took it and pulled it on, happy when it still for his figure very nicely. "What's even up with the whole corset thing anyway? Father's always teased me for being thin and so feminine, but the maids seemed to want to emphasis that trait. I suppose things are different here.

Legolas jumped as the fireworks whizzed ahead, jumping nervously and taking a firm hold on Aragorn. He let go as the dragon left and exploded. "Oh goodness..I'm really sorry." He turned as red as a rose. "I'm not a very good prince am I?" He looked away, ashamed. "Perhaps with time i'll improve.."

((I will post tomorrow evening, have to work early Please don't reply after this! I will just edit my entry in <3))

Aragorn laughed lightly, listening to the ramblings of the young but old prince. Legolas' voice was not as mature as his age would make you think it would be. Aragorn pondered at this, wondering if Legolas had lived a sheltered life in Mirkwood. His own life, though a short adventure compared to the full-blood elf, had been full of experience and adventures in the heavy woods surrounding Rivendell. One had to be swift in mind and body to roam outside of the village walls, for the forests were old and would trick you as soon as help you on your way. He pondered whether Legolas would be interested in adventuring the forest, or if he truly was on the feminine side and not interested in that at all.

He looked at the prince now, whose face was red with embarrassment- which was rather befitting on his slim elven face that glowed in the moonlight- and smiled broadly, his blue eyes twinkling in the darkness. "Time improves many things, my prince. And you are meant to be a prince, so you will be good at it."

((And life goes on, ))

Legolas watched as more fireworks erupted in the air above them, still a little closer than he'd have liked. He had never been lazy, but never very outdoorsy either. Though he knew if he were to be a better prince he'd have to change that fact. "You know, I have to head back to Mirkwood soon.." He said softly. "I would have liked to have gotten to know you better.." He shook his head. "Maybe the next time I'm around? I know I'll be expected to come back periodically, and I'd love to be friends.. Or perhaps we could write letters?" He thought of ways they could stay in touch.

"I'm over 2,000 years old....I'd think that would be plenty of time to have improved by now.." He sighed. "Sorry...I get so frustrated with all of this royal..stuff..."

"Well, it's not like this is my home. I have no home." Estel sighed, wondering what his future held. The wilderness was quiet, as if waiting for something, whether it was good or bad he wasn't sure- though his elven kin most likely did. He was a ranger, one of the last, and suddenly grew tired thinking what that meant. What was his purpose- and on that thought, why were Gandolf and this prince here anyways? He had not asked. Standing abruptly, he walked to the edge of the path and lifted a purple lily in fool bloom under the moonlight. He had never ventured farther than the wood surrounding Rivendell, and had always dreamed of doing so. This was not where he belonged. He glanced back at Legolas, whose white-blonde hair was shining brightly. Turning back towards the palace, he paused in front of the prince. "I should go back. It was nice speaking to you, Prince."

Legolas was surprised by Aragorn's sudden need to leave. He listened to the silence of the night. The fireworks had stopped and now, being alone, the young elf could feel a shadow. He shuddered, not liking the feel of such a darkness. It wasn't strong. It was just...different. He knew the animals could feel it as well as they had become silent. Legolas pushed aside the dark feelings and went back in to the party before Gandalf could realize he'd left.

After a few hours of dancing, the party slowly started to come to an end. Legolas found his wizard guardian, said good night, and then was escorted to his quarters. He wasn't as surprised as he'd been earlier when he was dressed by the maids for bed, scolded for losing the corset he'd been wearing earlier. He looked at the lace night gown with disgust, but didn't complain verbally. It was long like a dress and fit his figure in a way he was not fond of. He wasn't sure why he was always being dressed in feminine clothing in this kingdom. He decided he'd have to do something about that the next time her came to Rivendale. He climbed under the sheets slowly and stared at the ceiling, thinking of tomorrow and the trip they had in store for them.

Gandalf checked to be sure no young elves were still in the hallways. The nature of this visit had not been only for the birthday of a young prince. There was a shadow beginning to rise over middle earth, and the grey wizard found that he needed to seek the council of someone older than him. Elrond happened to fit that bill. They also had the arrangement of Legolas' marriage to discuss. It was decided that he would be wed to someone of the kingdom of Rivendale to bring it closer to the kingdom of Mirkwood, creating a friendship that was needed between the elves. During their talk, the subject of Aragorn arose. "He has to reproduce..An heir to the throne will be needed." Gandalf stated, and he was very correct. "I will not have him marry one of the elves." Elrond shot back. "Our people live forever in most cases. Aragorn will die one day. Have him marry a human girl." Gandalf shook his head. "You know that would never work. Aragorn is half elf. He'd out live any human woman." The others in the room started stating their opinions, order being lost. As the noise started to die down, Gandalf spoke again. "He'll have to have an elven bride." Elrond shook his head. "Any elf woman would die of grief when he passed. Watching him get older and older would pain her." Gandalf sighed. "What of the undying lands? Aragorn could go there.." Elrond shook his head. "No...He does not belong with our people...Even if it were possible for him to enter, he would be unwelcome. He is not one of us." With that Gandalf became silent. "Then perhaps we will be forced to allow him to choose his own wife if we can not come to a conclusion here.." With that, the wizard stormed from the room, anger rising in him.

As morning began to rise, Gandalf gathered the things he'd come to Rivendale for. Wines and other find things that the king of Mirkwood desired. He paid with much desired things from Mirkwood, then packed both horses. It appeared he and Legolas would be leaving a few days earlier than expected. Legolas fought Gandalf every step of the way, not pleased with how soon they would be headed back to his own home. "At least let me say good bye to everyone! He protested, yanking away from the old wizard. Gandalf agreed to allow that much, and the two went to breakfast in the dining hall so that they could eat and say their good byes.

As Legolas sat in his seat at the table, he had to wonder what had caused the sudden departure. He didn't know of the argument between Gandalf and Elrond, but he could feel tension between them in the cold way they took to staring at each other. The elf prince nibbled at his bread nervously, realizing why Gandalf had wanted to leave before breakfast. He'd wanted to say good bye to Aragorn though. The young human had earned the interest of Legolas, and he was saddened by the fact that he had not come to know him better.

Having left the party early, Aragorn had gone to his chambers to meditate as any elf with thoughts on their mind would do. He had just removed his vest and tunic, when he was interrupted by Elrond. It was late in the evening so he was slightly shocked to see the elven Lord, especially being caught preparing for bed. Not that he wasn't used to baring his midriff, since he practiced often in only his pants and leather shoes.

Grabbing his nightshirt, he pulled it over his head to cover his tanned skinned, turning away from Lord Elrond. "What brings you here, at this time of night?" He spoke with respect, but could only wonder at the intrusion.

"I have a warning and a message." Elrond had a lordly voice, his accent beautiful as any elves from the Undying Lands, but it was tinted with contempt tonight.

"I'll have it, then." Aragorn tensed, now facing Elrond, his caretaker for many years. The Lord of Mirkwood rarely spoke to him, not without a reason.

"You are of age now. You must find a wife. But be warned, no elven wife shall befit a human king. You will die, and she will die with from a loneliness no one should behold, and no real elf should live- or die- that way." Elrond stared intently at Aragorn, as if to brand this message and it's meaning upon his very head.

"Oh... is that all?" Aragorn scratched his chin, the rough hair reminding him he should shave in the morn. "I cannot promise who is to fall in love with me, whether they be human or elf, but I will say that if I come to love an elven lady, I would never wish death upon her." He glared just as intently back at Elrond and turned away once more.

He heard the elf leave quietly, like wind in the night air. Walking toward the outer chamber balcony, he leaned against the railing and sighed, not sure what his future would hold tomorrow.

--

Aragorn walked into the banquet hall and smiled happily at the smell of breakfast in the air. He grabbed and apple from the table and sat down in front of Legolas of Mirkwood, grinning broadly at the sullen-looking prince. "Morning." He nodded to Gandalf in greeting and bit his apple.

Gandalf nodded back a greeting to the half-human, trying his best to offer up a smile. "Good morning Aragorn. Did you sleep well?" Legolas stared at the prince in from of him, his interest in him growing even further by the moment. "We'll be headed on our way back to Mirkwood." Gandalf spoke to Aragorn. "Important things have come up that I must attend to and I'm sure Legolas is missed by his people." The Mirkwood prince was tempted to say his people could care less about him, but he knew better than to make a comment like that. "Surely you could stay one more night?" Erwin said softly from the other side of the table, but Elrond gave her a look that shushed her. She was starting to sense the anger and bitterness in the room, but she dared not question it. She was a woman and expected to stay out of such affairs.

Before the meal even ended, Gandalf was on his feet. "Come Legolas." He commanded and the elf followed, giving Aragorn a last look before going back to his horse.

The way back to Mirkwood was long and perilous, and Legolas wished for the comfort of a bed. He wanted to go back to Rivendale, but he knew Gandalf would not allow such. He found that the wizard was needed elsewhere and wouldn't be back for a few years. This wasn't a long time for an elf, but Legolas knew human men grew differently, and he wondered if he'd be forgotten by Aragorn.