Title: No Way Out
Characters: Rúmil/?
Prompt: 025 - But there is no other way out that I can see or think of.
Word Count: 297
Rating: G
Summary: Sometimes, the hard way is the only way.
Author's Notes: For larian

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“I am sorry, Rúmil.” Orophin wrapped his arms around his older brother, pulling him close as the other began to tremble. He rubbed his arm soothingly as Rúmil closed his eyes against the onslaught of emotions. Haldir stood next to them, his eyes full of compassion as he gazed upon Rúmil.

After a time Rúmil seemed to regain control of himself and pulled slightly away from Orophin, taking a long breath. “I knew this day would come,” he said quietly. “We both did.”

“Yet not so soon,” Haldir replied gently.

“No,” Rúmil admitted, his head dropping with the weight of his pain. “Not so soon. It is barely even summer – we were supposed to stay until winter.” He smiled ruefully. “It is my fault, I suppose, for falling so hard for one who is destined to break my heart.”

“Things change, we are needed at home,” Haldir said, thought he was aware that Rúmil knew this. “Yet it is not the end – you can send letters and maybe visit again when the borders are safer.”

However, Rúmil shook his head. “No… this has to stop. I do not wish to fade but if I allow this to continue, the final parting will kill me. It is already hard enough, but there is no other way out that I can see or think of.”

“Nor I,” admitted Orophin. “I wish there was.”

“As do I,” Haldir agreed. “Do what you must, my brother.”

Nodding slowly, Rúmil rose. “Thank you both,” he said. “I love you.” Giving them both a small smile, he left their guestrooms in the mortal kingdom of Rohan. Once outside he glanced briefly at his surroundings and then went to find its Prince, to say goodbye to the young man who had stolen his heart.

END

So Many Ways To See You