SWEPT AWAY
(Prequel to :THE HARD TRAVELLED PATH TO DESTINY)


Author: E'amane'Aldarion
Betas: Ziantasha, T. Futcher                            
Rating: R 
Main Pairing: HALDIR/SIDDHIR (OC)
Other Pairings: Haldir/ Elrond, Haldir/Anarin, Haldir/Tinion,
Haldir/Dinendal. 
Feedback: Sure! Eamane5@aol.com	
Warnings: Slash/Angst/Character death
Note: This story came as a result of several people who read my first story,
"The Hard Traveled Path to Destiny" wanting to know more about Haldir's
relationship with his first love, (Siddhir). Hope you like it folks! (smile)
Thank you all so very much for your feedback and compliments, all of which
are very much appreciated.                                               
Disclaimer: All characters (except Siddhir and Aranel) are the property of
J.R.R. Tolkien. I am just having fun with them. No money made here. That's
for sure- because I am soooo broke!
Summary: A story of Haldir's first love, who helped to shape the manner of
Elf he came to be. 
Timeline: Way before the Fellowship was even thought of.
Archives: Mirrormere, Lotrfanfiction,com, SlashFiction.net, Aniron Slash.
Anyone else, Please let me know where.	
Translations: [In brackets] *-* used for the Elvish language and for
emphasis. **-** used for Telepathic thoughts.

****************************************************************************
ONE



"Elbereth! Where in Arda did you *learn* those things Haldir? Elrond
breathlessly questioned, while disengaging his legs from the platinum haired
Elf's shoulders.

Haldir smirked and moved to lie beside the older Elf. "Here and there."

"Here and *there?* But you are barely out of your majority!"

"Then I suppose I am a good study." Haldir chuckled.

Elrond looked at him with raised eyebrows and sighed, still catching his
breath. "That would be an understatement, fair one. I fear you could be
hazardous to my health. I think perhaps I should leave you to those who are
younger and have the breath to keep up with you."

Haldir feigned a pout. "You are leaving me so soon? What a pity. Mayhap I am
not as skilled a lover as I thought."


Elrond closed his eyes. "You are by far skilled enough, *lirimaer* [lovely
one]. Anyone who says anything different is a fool, and you are right- you
are far better at giving than receiving."

Haldir chuckled, took Elrond's face in his hands and planted a soft kiss on
his lips. "Giving is my preference. Such sweet praise you render me,
*melethron nin* [my lover]- but you say you will leave me still."

Elrond opened his eyes to meet Haldir's. "If I thought I could, I would keep
you to myself until the world's end. But you are an eagle *nin bain* [my
beauty], and one not meant to be caged- at least not with me. You have a
light that shines brighter than any I have seen in many years, and it must be
free to shine where it will. I will not rob you of that."

"Again, you flatter me. Are you certain of your decision?"

Elrond sighed. "I am certain. There is much ahead in life for you *mir nin*
[my treasure], and I cannot in good conscience keep you from it."

Haldir looked at him. "You sound troubled."

Elrond smiled, and reached out to gently pull a few stray strands of silky
silver hair from Haldir's cheek. "I am sad that I am not a millennia or two
younger. But I am certain that setting you free is the right thing to do."


"As you wish, but it feels like rejection to me." Haldir answered.

Elrond turned to him, shocked. "'Tis *not* rejection, *melethron nin* [my
lover]. I do only what is for the greater good. When you are older and have
the weight of the good of your people on your shoulders, you will understand
what I do this day."

Haldir gazed at him for a long moment. "You have been reading me again, and
you know I dislike when you do that.  Shall I leave you now?"

"No. Let us lie here for a time. I wish to bask in your light a while
longer."

Haldir smiled, and put his arms around him. "As you wish, my Lord."

********************

Three hours later, a knock on the door awakened them. Erestor's soft voice
called out from beyond it. "My Lord?"

Elrond looked over at Haldir, who gazed back at him questionably, and then
called out; "Give me a moment, Erestor."


"Very well, my Lord." Erestor's muffled voice replied.

Without a word, Haldir climbed out of the bed and started to dress.

"Forgive me *lirimaer* [lovely one]. This is not Lorien, and I do not wish my
house to know of my personal affairs." Elrond explained, offering him an
uneasy smile.

Haldir raised an eyebrow. "What makes you think it is so in *Lorien?"* Then
he sighed. "Worry not. I will slip out into the gardens for a time, but I
think that perhaps it is best I prepare to leave anyway."

"I never said I wanted you to *leave,* Haldir." Elrond replied, quickly
slipping into his robes and moving towards him. "Please bear with me. I will
meet you in the gardens forthwith."

Haldir nodded, and stepped outside into the bright and sunny afternoon.

********************

Tinion grinned as Fereveldir approached him slightly ahead of his charge.
"*Mae Govannen, mellonamin* [well met, my friend]." 

Fereveldir grasped Tinion's shoulder briefly in greeting, and smiled. "*Mae
Govannen.* How are you on this fine day?"

"I am well. I see you are the first to arrive, as always."

Fereveldir laughed as another blond elf strolled up and stood beside him. "As
is my habit. You know Nilfalath, my second in command?"

"I do." Tinion replied, nodding courteously to the serious looking elf, who
nodded in return.

"Have you any idea why Lord Amroth has called us to Caras Galadon? What is
amiss?" Fereveldir asked.

"I know only that all divisions have been called in, but not by Lord Amroth.
He has been away for a time now. Lord Celeborn and the Lady Galadriel are
here, and it is they who have summoned the divisions. Tinion responded.

Fereveldir's mouth dropped open. "*All * divisions? Even those from the south
and east?"

Tinion nodded.

"Elbereth! It must be something of great importance then. Tell me, where is
Haldir that you are in command in his stead?"


"Haldir is in Rivendell on leave, but we have sent a party to hasten his
return."

They turned at the sound of approaching horses and saw what appeared to be
the remaining two divisions nearing the great divide. Tinion grasped
Fereveldir's shoulder.

"Take your division through. Accommodations have been set up near the common
where all will wait until the Lord and Lady are ready to address us."

Fereveldir turned to Nilfalath. "See them through, *mellon* [friend]. I will
join you shortly. It has been a long time since I have seen our brothers from
the south and east."

Nilfalath nodded, and waved the other members of the division ahead. They
left Tinion and Fereveldir to greet the approaching contingents.

********************

Haldir stretched out on a bench in Elrond's gardens and closed his eyes. The
warm sun felt good on his face. He sighed deeply and started to drift off.
Suddenly, his eyes fluttered open. An elf stood in front of him gazing down
at him disapprovingly. He pulled his long legs in and sat upright.

"The path through here is narrow enough without one having to climb over
someone's limbs, subaltern." The elf commented.

Haldir smirked. "My, Melpomaen. Such ill manner for a lovely day such as this
hardly seems appropriate. Can you not say hello?" 

"Hello Haldir." Melpomaen echoed dully. "Now that you have removed my
barrier, I will continue on about my business. You may finish napping now."

"I would much rather talk with you for a time, if you do not mind."

Melpomaen raised an eyebrow. "What could you possibly want to talk to me
about?"

Haldir smiled devilishly. "Why about you, of course."

"What about me?"

Haldir reached out and took Melpomaen's hand, gently pulling him down to sit
beside him on the bench. He did not resist- but once seated, he sat rigid,
glaring at him expectantly.

Haldir released his hand, slightly taken aback. "You look at me as if you
think I am about to attack you."

"I am at a loss as to why you feel the need to converse with me at all."

Haldir blinked, bewildered. "Why would I *not* want to converse with you? You
are a fellow kinsman after all, and being of Rivendell, I would assume your
cognitive powers are stronger than that."

Echoes of the many tales he had heard spoken about this elf flashed through
his mind all at once. The elf was smooth, he had to admit, with his not so
subtle good looks and abrasive demeanor-but he did not intend to become
another yet another one of his conquests. He frowned and backed away a bit on
the bench. "Surely you jest."

Haldir smiled uneasily. "Why would I do that?"

Melpomaen's features hardened. "It appears you really *are* as arrogant as it
is said. What makes you think that an elf of my station would desire to be
with *you?* An elf whose rank is below mine? Not to mention one who has most
likely been with more elves that can be counted? Do you think me a fool?"

Haldir blinked and stared at him for a moment in stunned silence. It was true
he found him fair, but what he was suggesting had not even crossed his mind.

Melpomaen smirked. "What is this? The infamous Haldir of Lorien has nothing
to say? This has to be a first." He rose to his feet.

"What have I done to warrant such contempt from you?" Haldir asked, when he
found his voice.

"I have no more time for banter, Haldir. Know that what you seek will never
be realized. Good day." Melpomaen responded coldly before walking away.

********************

"Calaglin! Dinendal! How very good to see you again!" Fereveldir greeted,
firmly grasping both elves on the shoulders.

"And we you, *mellon*[friend]. ‘Tis been a long time. *Mae Govannen* [well
met], Tinion." Calaglin replied with a pleasant smile. Dinendal nodded with
respect.

"*Mae Govannen.*" Tinion answered. "Your charge will go through to the
common. You will all be made comfortable there."

Calaglin nodded. "Very well."

"I shall meet you there forthwith. I would love to trade barbs with you and
catch up on whatever I have missed, but I would first like to greet Siddhir
and his contingent from the east." Fereveldir explained. "It has been even
longer since I have seen him."

Dinendal's crystal blue eyes widened. "Are *all* of Lorien's guard gathering
here?"

"As of this moment, that is so." Tinion confirmed. "Except Haldir, but he has
been sent for."

Dinendal raised an eyebrow and he shot a look at Calaglin. "I suppose we
should not tarry then."

Calaglin nodded. "Agreed. Let us press on. Fereveldir, We shall meet up with
you in the common."

********************

Haldir sat bewildered, staring after Melpomaen's retreating form. He was so
distracted that he did not hear another elf approach until he was upon him.
He started and turned swiftly when he became aware of the elf's presence.

The pleasant looking, dark haired elf spoke. "Forgive me; I am Anarin. I did
not mean to startle you."

"Worry not, for there is nothing to forgive. I am Haldir."

"Pleased to meet your acquaintance," Anarin replied.

Haldir frowned. "You seem to be the only one, I fear."

Anarin smiled compassionately and shook his head while glancing over in the
direction that Melpomaen had taken. "I apologize for overhearing and for the
rudeness of my kinsman. I know not what has rendered him so disagreeable this
day. He usually is very kind."

"I suppose it is just me, then." Haldir murmured.

Anarin gently touched his shoulder. "Worry not."

They both saw Elrond at once as he came into view quickly making his way
towards them. Anarin let his hand slip from Haldir's shoulder and bowed as
Elrond drew near.

"*Mae Govannen* [well met], my Lord."

"*Mae Govannen, Anarin.*" Elrond returned, nodding with respect. "I need to
have a word with Haldir."

"Very well, my Lord. I was just out for a stroll. Good day, Haldir."

"Good day." Haldir answered. Anarin sauntered off, and Elrond took a seat
beside Haldir on the bench.

"Forgive me for taking so long. There was business I had to attend to."
Elrond explained.


"No matter." Haldir sighed.

Elrond looked at him. "Are you still upset with me?"

Haldir leaned forward to adjust the straps on his boots. "I am not upset with
you. However, I feel it is time for me to return to Lorien. Two rejections in
one day are a bit much, even for me."

Elrond frowned. "Haldir, I did *not* reject you. But what is this you say?
*Two* rejections? Who was the other? Anarin?"

"Nay, not Anarin. He was quite pleasant. I should have met him sooner."

"Who then?" Elrond queried.

Haldir stretched and stood. "It matters not."

Elrond stood and met his eyes. "When were you thinking of leaving?"

"Now."

Elrond frowned. "Haldir, *please* do not leave like this. Cannot you wait
until the morrow at least?"

"I fail to see why. What difference would the morrow make?" Haldir
questioned.

Elrond looked at him. "It would give me a chance to prove to you that I
*care*, Haldir. You seem to only associate coupling with caring and loving,
and I need to show you that it is not always so. One *can* care very deeply
without coupling, and there are those who can couple and feel nothing at all
but the pleasure of the moment. Please give me this chance to try and show
you thus."

Haldir stared back at him a while before speaking. Finally, he sighed. "Very
well. I shall stay until the morrow at least."

Elrond smiled. "That is all I ask. Come now with me to look in on the
children; then we will have something to eat together."

"Very well."

They went inside and eventually entered a large room situated only a few
doors down from Elrond's chambers. A fair maiden with stunning dark wavy hair
smiled brightly and stood.

"Come to check on the children, my Lord?"

Elrond smiled. "They are sleeping I presume?"

"Arwen and Elrohir are, but Elladan is wide awake."

Elrond chuckled. "As always. He is far more inquisitive than his brother."

They walked over to Arwen's crib first. Haldir watched as Elrond bent down to
kiss the tiny she-elf on the cheek, and then moved with him again over to the
slightly larger crib that held the twins. He kissed Elrohir in the same
manner as Arwen, before kissing and lifting a smiling Elladan from his bed.

"You are ever so watchful, *pen-tithen* [little one]." He cooed, as he held
the child closely to his breast.

Haldir smiled. "You have made very handsome children, my Lord." He offered
Elladan a finger, which the elfling grabbed quickly and tried to pull to his
mouth to chew.

"Thank you, Haldir. They are my life. I see my dear Celebrian every time I
gaze upon them, for they all have her looks."

Haldir chuckled and gently pried his finger from Elladan's grip with his
other hand. "And this one is hungry. It is best you have him fed before he
makes a meal of the next unsuspecting person's fingers."

"I suspect that you are right." Elrond laughed, as he passed Elladan to the
smiling woman who stood nearby.

"Do you miss her, my Lord?"

Elrond turned to look into Haldir's caring grey eyes and sighed. "With every
day that passes, but death has claimed her and I cannot fall apart. I have my
children to care for."

Haldir nodded with silent understanding.

Elrond collected himself, turned and nodded to the woman and then to Haldir.
"Come; let us go now and have dinner."

********************

"Siddhir! How long it has been since I have seen you? By the Gods, you are
even more a vision than I remembered." Fereveldir laughed.

Siddhir flashed a brilliant smile while grasping the shoulder of his kin in
greeting. "And you flatter me still, *mellon.*[friend] It is good to see you
as well."

Tinion examined the elf thoroughly in awe of his beauty before commenting;
"Nay, he does not. In fact, I would venture to say that he has greatly
*understated* your beauty, fair one."

Siddhir grinned and turned to Elviondel, his second in command, and winked.
Then he returned his attention back to the equally fair platinum haired elf
before him, his dark eyes smiling along with his lips. "Why Tinion, I did not
know you cared."

Tinion gazed deeply into those seductive dark eyes that seemed to twinkle
with a light of their own. "Perhaps you might soon let me show you how much."

Siddhir's full lips spread into a wide grin, and his eyes held Tinion's
unwavering gaze. "Perhaps." 

Fereveldir chuckled as he looked from Tinion to Siddhir. Their attraction to
each other seemed quite evident. He coughed loudly. "My friends, perhaps it
is wise we get everyone settled in the common now. Darkness will soon be upon
us."

********************

Elrond and Haldir strolled quietly down to Elrond's chambers after dinner.
The halls were deserted and quiet enough to hear their light footsteps. Many
had retired early, and those who had not still lingered in the dining hall.
Haldir was pensive as Elrond opened the large doors and waited for him to
step inside. Once inside, Elrond closed the doors and pulled him into a firm
embrace.

"I regret that I have made you feel less than you deserve, *nin bain*[my
beauty]." I swear to you that is *not*the case, no matter what you may think.
I care for you far more than you know, and 
that is why I do what I must do. You are worthy of love Haldir. You are
worthy of a love that blinds you with happiness, and I know that I am not the
one who will be that for you. I want you to be free to be available to it
when it comes. But know this; you will *always* have a place in my heart. And
when that glorious day *does * arrive, you *will* understand what I have
done. As for the other matter you spoke of, it is best to try and put it past
you. I am certain that rejection is not something that you have experienced
often, if at all- and I know that it is painful; no matter how strong you
are. But it matters not; for whomever he was- he also is not your light. Now
come; let us undress and go to bed."

Haldir followed him over to the large bed in the centre of the ornately
decorated room. He undressed quietly, and watched Elrond curiously as he did
the same. When they both climbed in bed under the cool crisp sheets, Elrond
quickly gathered Haldir in his arms and held him close to his breast, gently
caressing his silky fair hair even as he felt the slightly ticklish sensation
of silent silver tears streaming down his chest.

TWO


Haldir rose first the following morning and slipped quietly from the huge
bed, leaving Elrond to continue sleeping. He gathered his clothes and went
into the private chamber adjoining the large room for a bath. The warm water
in the pool immediately relaxed his tense muscles the moment he slipped into
it. He looked around and wondered briefly how Elrond had managed to get his
own private pool from a nearby stream into the privacy of his rooms, but he
did not ponder upon it long. He closed his eyes with a sigh of relief and
relaxed, letting the churning water massage his body.

He began to feel stronger. Something inside slowly moved within him, coursing
through the length of his body and strengthening his resolve. He would not
allow himself to be hurt like that ever again; he thought- and he definitely
would not show it. If all thought him arrogant, then so be it. He knew in his
heart that the statement was a falsehood, so it mattered not- but one thing
was certain; in the end, it would be far less painful for him to let them
continue to perceive him that way. He was not used to rejection. Although he
did not truly contemplate Elrond as a lover of his own and understood his
reasoning, it still hurt some that he would claim to enjoy his company and
yet put him aside as a lover. Melpomaen's words however, had stung like the
slice of an Orc's blade, and he felt as if he had been cut twice. He was now
determined never to feel that sting again. Coupling was pleasurable; there
was no way he could ever totally give up that-but opening his heart in the
process was a mistake he would not soon make again. Love was for the
fainthearted. He decided he would spend his time from this day forward
becoming a better warrior and taking care of his brothers rather than
pursuing a fruitless venture such as love.

"Have I told you lately how very fair you are, Haldir?" Elrond whispered,
breaking the silence of Haldir's reverie.

Haldir opened his eyes and looked up at him nonchalantly. "Not this morn, but
last night will suffice."

Elrond smiled, as he slipped off his robes and joined him in the bath. "Are
you feeling better now?"

"I feel wonderful. Thank you for inquiring."

"I am glad. Have you changed your mind about staying a while longer?"

Haldir thought a moment. Anarin was quite receptive to him the previous day,
and he was more than fair.  Perhaps he *should* stay awhile longer. He looked
at Elrond. "Possibly"

Elrond smiled. "That makes my heart glad, *lirimaer* [lovely one].

"Whatever would please you, my Lord."   Haldir replied, with a winning smile.

********************

"When will they speak with us, Tinion? Have you heard any news?" Calaglin
asked, as they were eating breakfast. "The borders have been quiet of late,
but I am certain they will not always be thus."

Tinion shrugged. "I know not, but I presume they will wait for Haldir's
return, and the dispatch sent after him. It was said that they want *all* of
Lorien's guard present."

Fereveldir looked at Siddhir. "Can you see anything *mellon?* Anything to
quiet the minds of the curious?"

Siddhir chuckled and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Your curious mind first
and foremost. Forgive me, *mellonamin* [my friend], but I see nothing. The
lady is powerful and she senses my presence. She will not unlock any doors at
this time."

Tinion raised an eyebrow. "What say you, Siddhir? Do you have the gift?"

Siddhir winced. "I have- but it is not is it all powerful, and far from
predictable."

"How is that so? You are of Lorien. None in Lorien have the gift, and only a
few in Imladris can even come close to the skills of Lord Elrond." Calaglin
asked, curious.

Siddhir looked at Fereveldir and laughed.

Tinion frowned. "I fail to see what is so amusing."

"Forgive me. I thought all of Lorien knew that I am a descendant of Lord
Elrond's line. He is a distant cousin."

"Ah! That would explain it!" Tinion exclaimed.

"Explain what?" Siddhir inquired, amused.

"Your dark eyes. They are not common of Lorien." 

Siddhir grinned. "Far be it from me to be common, eh Fereveldir?"

Fereveldir smiled. "Oh, that is certain."

"Well, I rather like uncommon. In fact, I am known for it." Tinion remarked
staring deep into Siddhir's dark eyes. The elf was quiet, but even still he
captivated him with his subtle elegance.

"That too is certain." Fereveldir commented, as he rose. "I think I will take
a stroll. I am sure you both can entertain yourselves in my absence?"

Tinion laughed aloud. "You are right about that as well, *mellon* [friend]."

Calaglin looked from Tinion to Siddhir and stood. "Wait, Fereveldir. I think
I shall accompany you."

********************
"That was a fine breakfast. Do you not agree, Haldir?" Elrond asked.

"'Twas fine indeed." Haldir replied, wiping his mouth. "I shall have to visit
your kitchens and inquire as to how it was prepared." 

Elrond raised an eyebrow. "You enjoy cooking, do you?"

"I do."

"I see there is still much to learn about you, *lirimaer* [lovely one]. I
thought it was healing that you were interested in."

Haldir pushed his empty plate aside. "I am interested in many things."

"Somehow I am not surprised. I sense a vast yearning for knowledge within
you. You certainly learned swiftly all I have taught you about healing."
Elrond remarked.

Haldir smirked. "Surely my Lord has far more important matters to attend to
other than to make duty of delving into the mind of a common elf such as
myself. I learned quickly because healing interests me."

Elrond frowned. "Haldir, you are *not* a common elf, and you should not refer
to yourself as such."

"No matter." Haldir replied, standing. "I feel like a stroll. Would you care-
" He stopped and turned when Glorfindel entered the dining hall. Elrond
looked up expectantly, as Glorfindel stopped and bowed before him. Elrond
smiled.

"*Quel amrun, mellonamin* [good morning, my friend]."

"*Quel amrun* my Lord; Haldir." Glorfindel replied. "Forgive me for the
intrusion, but riders from Lorien have arrived to fetch Haldir. They say he
has been called back to Lorien forthwith."

Haldir stared at him wide-eyed and slightly perturbed. "Is there anything
amiss?"

"They would not say. They have said only that you are to return to Lorien
without delay, and that they were to accompany you."

Haldir raised an eyebrow. "Then I shall return. I am certain they would not
call upon me while on leave if it were not of great significance. I will go
now to my rooms and gather my belongings."

"Very well." Elrond almost sighed, disappointment clearly edging his voice.
Haldir turned and hurriedly left the dining hall. 

Glorfindel watched Haldir leave. "There is a parchment for you as well, my
Lord." He handed the rolled paper to Elrond.

Elrond took it, and slowly opened the parchment. He read it as Glorfindel
waited expectantly. A few moments later Erestor entered the dining hall, but
remained quiet when he noticed Elrond was reading.

Elrond finished reading and rolled the parchment closed again. "There are
great changes taking place in Lorien. I sense that many of them will
ultimately be for the better."

"Forgive me my Lord, but why was I told to give you this parchment in
Haldir's absence if it were all for the good?" Glorfindel asked.

Elrond sighed. " There is some bad with the good, and they do not want Haldir
to learn of it before he is home. Given his state of mind as of late, I think
it is a good idea as well." He stood. "Come; let us see him off."

********************

 "Ah, Siddhir! There you are! I was looking for you. I feared you may have
run off with Tinion to some secret place never to return." Fereveldir
remarked with a grin, as he took a seat beside him on the grass.

Siddhir chuckled heartily. "Nay, I think not. I am here relaxing and waiting
like everyone else to hear news as to why we have all been called upon. How
are you faring, friend?"

"I fare well. Thank you for asking. Tell me, how are things in the east?"

Siddhir sighed; and his beautiful face suddenly became sullen. "Things have
been oddly quiet for the last few months, but before that it seemed we would
come upon bands of Orcs almost routinely. With every encounter it seems their
numbers grow. I fear darkness is near once again."

Fereveldir's large blue eyes widened. "Have you seen it?"

"No. I speak from sheer reason. The patterns of the Orcs are changing. One
has only but to pay attention, and they will see as I have. That alone spells
trouble."

Fereveldir groaned. " I know of what you speak. I too have noticed a
significant change in their numbers at our borders as well. It is as if they
know something and are organizing themselves."

Siddhir's fair features twisted in to a grimace. "You give the lowly beasts
far too much credit. They have not the wits to organize themselves in such a
manner. They are being led."

 Fereveldir turned to gaze into Siddhir's eyes. "Led? But by whom? Melkor has
not been heard from in ages, and Sauron was defeated in the last war. Peace
has come once again throughout our lands."

"If that is so, why are the Orcs' numbers increasing, and why do they try to
come upon us? Nay, *mellonamin* [my friend], something is amiss. They gather
their strength, because they know it will take great numbers to thwart us."

Fereveldir blinked. "Who do you think leads them?"

Siddhir looked away for a moment and them returned his gaze to his friend.
"The dark Lord Sauron is far worse than Melkor ever was. He surpassed his
mentor's vile teachings and I believe that it is he who somehow stirs life
into those beasts. If not directly, then he is at least behind it. I know not
yet how, but I feel it is so."

"Do you think that is why we all have been called upon?" Fereveldir asked.

"I know not for certain, but I do think it may be part of it." Siddhir
confessed.

Fereveldir exhaled. "Never have I known your thoughts to be wrong, whether
they be by sight or conjecture."

Siddhir looked at him. "There are times when I wish it were not so; either my
thoughts or my gift."

Fereveldir smiled and placed a hand on Siddhir's shoulder. "Forgive me
*mellon* [friend] for dampening your spirit. I know it must be a burden at
times. I would greatly like to see you smile again, so let us speak of more
pleasant things. Tell me, what is happening with you and Tinion?"

Siddhir's musical laughter resounded through the wood, but he said nothing.

Fereveldir grinned. "I take it things are going well?"

"Why Fereveldir, for one who is not attracted to the male gender, you take
great delight in hearing our tales. Have you been thinking of converting?"
Siddhir joked.

Fereveldir laughed hard. "Nay, I cannot say that. Although I have seen many
an attractive male here in Lorien, I still find the she-elf more so. It is
just that the tales I have heard are so entertaining."

"I will grant you that, as I have heard some quite entertaining tales myself.
Tell me about the one whom we wait upon; the one called Haldir. I have heard
many tales about him, but I have yet to meet him, as our paths have not
crossed. I have heard also that the two of you are close friends.
Is he truly as fair and promiscuous as it is said?" 


Fereveldir chuckled. "Yes, we are close- and yes, I suppose he is fair. Both
males and females here in Lorien seem to find him attractive, quiet as it is
kept. But, I would *not* say he is as promiscuous as it has been told. I too
have heard those tales, and I think more often than not some were more
*wishes* than actual events."

Siddhir grinned. "Is that so? How very intriguing."

Fereveldir chortled. "It is so."

"Tell me more. What manner of Elf is he? Who are his parents?" Siddhir asked.

Fereveldir grew quiet for a moment, and then spoke in a lower tone of voice.
"Haldir's story is a sad one. He and his younger brothers were orphaned when
their parents were killed in an Orc attack in the middle of the night where
they lived just outside the great divide several
years ago. He was awake to witness it, and somehow escaped dragging his
sleeping brothers with him. The Orcs were dealt with, when we learned what
had happened; but not in time to save the lives of his parents. Lord Amroth
took a liking to him immediately for his ability to save his siblings, and
bade him to stay in here in Caras Galadon rather than go back across the
divide. He took Haldir under his wing and personally taught him archery and
how to use a blade. It was not long before Haldir's talent with wielding both
surpassed everyone's expectations. He was an intense study. Every free moment
he could get, he was either practising or entering tournaments. He won more
contests than could be counted, and after awhile Lord Amroth promoted him to
Captain and gave him his own charge. All of that while caring for his
brothers then and still. He is very devoted to them. I have personally seen
him go without food himself so that they might eat their fill. For an Elf who
was far from being a father, he has become a great one."

"He is away now. Who watches after them in his stead?" Siddhir asked,
interested.

"We *all* do when not on watch, but at this time Orolonn and his wife Aranel
and looking after them. Haldir did not want to go on leave, but Lord Amroth
had insisted before he left, for all could clearly see that Haldir was weary.
He reluctantly acquiesced and went to Rivendell for some rest. When he
returns, you can be sure that the first thing he will do is go and seek his
brothers out."

"What are their names?" Siddhir inquired.

"The eldest of the two is called Orophin. The younger elfling is called
Rumil."

"Unusual names, even for Lorien, " Siddhir commented.

Fereveldir chuckled. "All right, fair one. I have told you enough. Do not
think that I have not caught on to your evasiveness before. You will share a
tale with *me* now."

Siddhir's dark eyes sparkled as he smiled brightly at Fereveldir. "You do not
wish to hear *any* tale; you wish to hear about Tinion."

Fereveldir bellowed with laughter. "Ah! I am found out. Are you reading me,
*mellon* [friend]?"

"Nay, ‘tis not necessary. Your question alone speaks volumes, but I fear I
have nothing to tell. Tinion was called into Caras Galadon before we could
finish our chat."

"Elbereth! All that and *nothing* happened?"

"I am afraid not, friend." Siddhir chuckled.

Fereveldir pulled himself up from the grass and offered a hand to Siddhir.
"Well, as it seems that I cannot have my fill of entertaining tales this eve,
perhaps we can fill our bellies instead. Food is now being set out. Would you
care to join me?"

Siddhir took his hand and hoisted himself up to stand. "I would indeed."

********************

Haldir was the last to mount his horse, as the others in his party slowly
moved away. Elrond stepped forward to meet him with a smile. "I shall miss
you, Haldir. I would hope that you will visit Rivendell again on holiday in
the future."

"I will, my Lord. You need not question that." Haldir answered.

"For that I am glad. Have a safe journey, *mellonamin* [my friend]."

Haldir winked and then swiftly turned his horse and galloped to join the
others in his party. Elrond watched until they faded into the distance, and
then turned and walked slowly over to his friend and councillor Erestor, who
was waiting quietly behind him. Together they walked back to the main house.
THREE


It was early morning when Haldir and his company eventually rode across the
great divide and into Lothlorien. Haldir looked about curiously, noticing the
lack of sentries at their posts. It was eerily quiet. He frowned and turned
to one of the elves that rode beside him.

"What is amiss here? Why is there no one at their posts?"

"All are gathered in the common and beyond Captain." One elf answered.

"Lord Amroth ordered this?"

"No, Captain. Lord Amroth has yet to return. It is said that Lord Celeborn
and the Lady Galadriel have made this so."

Haldir's eyebrow raised. "Celeborn of Doriath?"

"Yes, Captain." The elf replied.

Haldir was stunned, but he gave no indication. "Very well."

They continued on until almost reaching the common before Tinion suddenly
stepped out from behind some shrubbery and greeted them. 

"Haldir, it is good to see you again. You were well missed here in Lorien. I
regret that your leave was cut short, but it could not be helped."

Haldir dismounted his horse, and the other elves followed suit. "I have
rested enough. Tell me Tinion, what is amiss here?"

Tinion nodded. "I will tell you of what I know. The rest I am sure will come
as soon after it is relayed that you have returned."

********************

"Aranel, although we know not which day we will get news, we must gather
still in the common. Are you not yet ready?" Orolonn called out, winking at
Orophin as he stood by his side. The young elf giggled.

"Orolonn, the children have just eaten, and you know what a mess Rumil
becomes. I had to clean him up. Really, we go through this every day. You
should know better by now. We will be there as always." Aranel replied, as
she came into view carrying Rumil- still a toddler, in her arms.

Orolonn chuckled. " I know, *melamin*[my love]. I was only having fun with
you."


Aranel frowned. "Some fun."

Orolonn pulled her into his embrace, kissed her on the cheek and stroked her
long silky hair. "Forgive me. I shall not do it again."

"Make sure you keep to your promise, or the next time it will be you who
cleans him up." Aranel giggled. Rumil tittered, reached out and grabbed a
handful of Orolonn's hair and began to tug.

"Ru! Do not do that!" Orophin shrieked, as he tried with Aranel to assist
Orolonn in removing the elflings hand from his hair. Rumil chortled and
pulled even more.

Orolonn winced. "The child has quite a grip."

"Rumil!" A low familiar voice rang out from behind them. "All turned to see
Haldir standing there with a stern look. Rumil released Orolonn's hair
immediately and held out his small arms. "Da!"

"Brother!" Orophin called out, as he ran to greet him. Haldir suddenly smiled
and embraced him, then took his hand as he made his way over to Orolonn,
Aranel and a grinning Rumil.

"Forgive him* mellon*  [friend], for I know he is wilful. He does that to me
at least once a week." Haldir remarked, as he took Rumil from Aranel's arms.
"*Mae Govannen* [well met], milady. Thank you both for attending to my
brothers in my absence."

Orolonn chuckled. "You are very welcome, and there is nothing to forgive
*mellon.* We both hope to have one just like him someday."

Haldir looked at Rumil and feigned a frown. "Surely you jest! Why would you
want one of these troublesome things?"

They laughed as Rumil planted a kiss on Haldir's cheek and snuggled his small
head in under his neck. Haldir smiled and kissed him back, tussling the
elfling's wild honey blond hair. "You have won my heart again, little one.
You need not pour it on so thickly."

Aranel laughed, and winked at her husband. "As if he ever lost it. Come; let
us go now."

********************

Siddhir looked up from the place he was seated along with Fereveldir,
Calaglin and Dinendal as Haldir entered the common with his brothers, Orolonn
and Aranel. He leaned in closer to Fereveldir.

"That is Haldir, is it not? The one holding the children?"

Fereveldir turned to see them as they seated themselves. "Yes, that is Haldir
and his brothers."

Siddhir smiled. "The rumours are correct. He

Fereveldir turned to his friend. "What is this? You find him appealing as
well? What will happen with Tinion then?" Calaglin and Dinendal smiled, but
said nothing.

Siddhir raised an eyebrow. "Why can I not have them both?"

Fereveldir blinked, and chuckled. "Forgive me. I am aware that I have not
seen you in some time, *mellon*[friend]- but I never pictured you as one who
would entertain numerous lovers at once- or be enticed by those that do. I
suppose I do not know you as well as I thought."

Siddhir grabbed a few strawberries from a nearby platter and began to eat
one, gazing intently in the direction where Haldir sat. "You know me well
enough,* mellon.* It is but only one I have in mind."

********************

"Have you eaten this morn, Haldir? I could go and fetch you something if you
like. We have all eaten before you arrived." Aranel stated.

"Nay, I have not. But I will get something for myself soon enough. Thank you
for offering." Haldir answered.

Aranel frowned. "You do not eat nearly enough, Haldir. I have seen you."

Orolonn chuckled. " *Melamin*[my love], try not to coddle Haldir as you do
his brothers. He has long reached his majority." Haldir smiled at Orolonn's
remark.

"I *know* that, husband mine-but that does not mean he should not eat. He has
earned the rank of Captain, and as Captain he should be strong enough to lead
his charge. He cannot do that if he is weak from hunger."

Orolonn turned to Haldir. "Looking after your brothers has raised her
maternal instinct. If I were you..."

Haldir laughed and stood. "I am going. I will take my brothers with me."

Orolonn turned to his wife. "Are you happy now?"

"Quite." Aranel answered, satisfied.

********************

Siddhir watched with growing interest as Haldir made his way through the
people gathered there to one of the many tables filled with food. The love he
had for his brothers was quite evident as 

he watched him carefully pick out pieces of fruit and pheasant to hand to the
brother at his side, and then feed some to the one in his arms before taking
his own share. He was a vision yes, but there was something else- something
that he could feel and not quite explain. Perhaps it was his gift helping to
aid his senses- perhaps not. All he knew for sure was that there was
something about *this* Elf that tugged at his heart, and he wanted that Elf
for his own.

"Siddhir?"

Muffled snickers brought him out of his reverie. He turned to Fereveldir to
find his friend's kind chiselled features gazing at him with concern.

"Siddhir? Are you all right?" Fereveldir repeated, with more chuckles from
both Calaglin and Dinendal in the background.

"He is fine, Fereveldir. Haldir's presence has just struck him, as it did
with many others including myself. He will survive." Dinendal replied.

Fereveldir relaxed and smiled. "It would seem so."

"Forgive me, Fereveldir. What were you saying?" Siddhir asked.

"It was of no consequence, *mellon*[friend]. I will go and bring something
back for all of us. Continue your watch." Fereverdir remarked. He left the
table.

********************

Haldir finished his breakfast, and turned to wipe Rumil's mouth. It always
amazed him how much Rumil could eat. There were times when he ate even more
than Orophin, who was a lot older- and cleaner. He smiled at the thought, and
then suddenly he felt that he was being watched. He turned around, searching
through literally hundreds of Elven faces until his eyes settled on one. His
heart skipped a beat in his chest as he found the dark eyes of an Elf he did
not know that were yet still gazing at him as he sat relaxed, seated at the
same table as Calaglin and Dinendal of the south guard.

He sat there transfixed, even as Rumil started to pull on his hair- frozen as
if he were collared and being drawn into those eyes. What was this? he
thought. The strangely seductive elf did not move a muscle. He sat there
still, just looking at him. Looking *through* him, it felt- and that feeling
did not cease until Tinion stepped in the path of those eyes and blocked them
from his sight. He came to himself again, and looked up at Tinion- as if
suddenly free of an eerie trance.

"Captain, there will be news forthwith. We are but only to wait a few moments
longer. The Lord and Lady are soon coming." Tinion stated.

"Very well. *Hannon lle*[thank you]." Haldir murmured.


Tinion tussled Orophin's platinum hair. "Oro, you grow more every time I lay
eyes upon you."

Orophin smiled. "Soon I will be big enough to grapple with you, and learn to
hunt and fight."

"That is very true, and look at this one! Is he not significantly larger as
well?" Tinion questioned as he took Rumil from Haldir's arms.

Haldir laughed. "He is, if the pain in my arm is any indication."

Rumil chortled as Tinion threw him up in the air, only to catch him again and
repeat the process. "He is not so weighty, Captain. Perhaps you should
exercise those arms of yours more often."

Haldir smirked. "Perhaps *you* should carry him around more often."

"Well said, *mellon*[friend]-for I have hoisted that little one many a day."
Fereveldir remarked, stepping up behind Orophin and giving his shoulders a
gentle squeeze. It is good to see you again, Haldir."

Haldir stood and grasped Fereveldir's shoulder in greeting. "And I you,
*mellonamin*[my friend]."

"How was your stay in Rivendell? I trust you got the rest that you so
severely needed?"

"I did, but it is good to be home- even if things are a tad astray."  

Fereveldir looked around. "Yes, it seems so- but I have a feeling that things
will soon be in order."

"I certainly hope so. I am used to a much quieter Lorien."

Tinion handed Rumil back to Haldir, and the elfling promptly regurgitated
some of his recently eaten food on him. Haldir frowned, pulled a napkin from
the table and wiped Rumil's mouth and then his soiled tunic. Fereveldir and
Orophin chuckled at the look of surprise on Tinion's face.

"I thank you for that, Tinion." Haldir muttered, scowling.

"Forgive me, Captain! I knew not that he had just eaten, or I would not have
shaken him up so."

Haldir sighed. "Never mind. It matters not. He is fine."

Orophin stepped forward. "I will take him brother if you wish to go and
change."

Haldir smiled. *"Hannon lle, pen-neth*[thank you, young one]. It is all
right, I will survive until this day is done."



All heads turned as the sound of horns that suddenly reverberated throughout
the wood. Tinion placed an arm on Haldir's shoulder. "I think we are about to
get the news we seek, Captain."

Haldir stood and shifted a now sleeping Rumil in his arms and grasped
Orophin's hand. "It appears so. Come; let us move in closer."

As they strolled away, Haldir turned back to seek out the Elf with the dark
eyes that had haunted him so; but he had gone.
FOUR


 The voices of hundreds of Lorien elves were hushed when Lord Celeborn and
Lady Galadriel appeared, along with another Elf of whom most did not
recognize. Tinion's large iridescent blue eyes gazed upon that Elf with keen
interest. When the Elf's eyes finally settled upon him, he smiled and nodded
with an elegance that made Tinion's limbs tingle with excitement. It was not
until Lord Celeborn raised his arms and spoke that he could tear his eyes
away from the strangely alluring Elf's gaze.

"Greetings, blessed kin of Lorien. We have gathered all here so that we may
speak to you as one. There are events that have occurred and events that will
occur of which we must inform you. I am Celeborn, for those of you who do not
know of me already, and this is my wife- the Lady Galadriel, keeper of Nenya,
a ring of power. To her left is Galdor, ambassador from the Grey Havens."

Fereveldir stepped forward and bowed. "My Lord, we are in most esteemed
company. May I inquire if it is good or bad tidings that you deliver to us?"

Celeborn looked at him and smiled. "I fear there is some bad with the good,
but we hope the good will make the bad more bearable." Fereveldir nodded and
stepped back into place. Several murmurs began to sound throughout the mass
of elves. Celeborn raised his arms again to quiet them.

"I must first inform you that sadly, it has been confirmed that Lord Amroth
was lost at sea while searching for his love, Nimrodel. This is the reason we
come to you now in Lorien's time of sorrow and absence of direction. With
your will and assistance, the Lady Galadriel and I will rule Lorien together
and see to it that its people are cared for and that peace is maintained
throughout its lands."  

Several Elves, including Haldir's mouths hung agape. There were a few, mostly
females, who sobbed openly. They were quickly consoled with a comforting arm
about their shoulders by either their mates or those who were near. The rest
simply stood there, in silence, awaiting further instructions. 

Celeborn continued; "Know that we grieve with you as well. Amroth was a great
Elf, and one who will always be remembered, no matter the passage of time. We
will soon hold a memorial in his name for the benefit of all who wish to
remember him and pay their respects. But for now we must come together and
work with one another to keep Lorien as strong as it always was. Behold now
my wife; Galadriel, lady of light."

Celeborn nodded to Galadriel, who stepped slightly forward. All there
suddenly became so silent that one could hear the sharp intakes of breath
that came forth collectively from the mass of elves gathered there. Both male
and female alike gasped in awe of her beauty and presence. She closed her
eyes and held her arms out wide. 


Slowly a gentle breeze came forth and caressed them all; enveloping them with
a great sense of calm. Then to everyone's astonishment, the leaves on the
surrounding Mallorns began to change; from green, to red and finally to gold-
and they shimmered with light as if they were alive. The Lady opened her eyes
and lowered her arms, but the great trees remained the same- more beautiful
and golden than any other trees they had ever seen. And then she spoke; her
voice as pleasant and alluring as her person.

"We will not only rule you, but serve you as well, kind kin of Lorien. To
that you have our word, along with our protection and guidance. There will be
rules of course- for one must always have those, but we are certain there
will be none you cannot live with. Even so, you are free to reside where you
will, and if you choose not to stay, you are free to leave. We will not force
our presence upon those who do not desire us." She turned and nodded to
Galdor. "Galdor is here from the Grey Havens, and those who feel they might
like to reside there or in Valinor are free to leave with him when he
departs." She hesitated a moment before continuing;

"For those who wish to stay, we will know each and every one of you. We wish
to know every Captain, every first in command, every elf, she-elf and
elfling. We will hold an audience with you all- starting this day. First with
all Captains, their firsts in command, the guards themselves and then the
remainder of Lorien's  people. But before this, my husband will speak to you
once more." Galadriel stepped aside, nearer to Galdor as Celeborn once again
stepped forward to speak.

"Blessed kin of Lorien, we hope you will all stay and help us to keep Lorien
great, for there is much work to be done. Homes will need building for one-
and after we have met all of you, we would have the guards of all four
regions move their camps inside the great divide, and set up anew there. Our
Lady's protection cannot extend much beyond that point, and we will have all
of you within its reach. We will no longer have a fixed guard station at
every point. We will schedule rosters so that every Elf in the guard may have
the benefit of seeing all of Lorien and not be contained to only one region.
We will of course have several chosen members maintain their guard here in
the west, for it is here in Caras Galadon where the Lady and I will reside.
Eventually we will grant the rank of Marchwarden to one Elf of the guard to
run *all* divisions answering only to us. As soon as this is accomplished, we
will hold the memorial services as promised for our beloved Lord Amroth. Have
you any inquiries?"

Celeborn looked over the mass of elves standing before him, but all were
silent. "Very well. As the hour grows late, we will start first with the
Captains of the guard and their firsts in command for the remainder of this
day. All others are excused. Go back to your homes, or stroll about and enjoy
what is left of this wondrous day. We will call upon you again on the morrow,
and every day thereafter until we have personally met each and every elf in
Lorien. May the Valar's grace be with you all."

The Elves began to scatter, murmuring quietly amongst themselves. Eventually
only Fereveldir, Nilfalath, Calaglin, Dinendal, Siddhir, Elviondel, Tinion
and Haldir, with Orophin at his side and Rumil in his arms remained standing
before Celeborn, Galadriel and Galdor, whose kind eyes remained fixed on
Tinion. Celeborn smiled, and extended his hand to them.

"Brothers and defenders of Lorien, come now with us. We are exceptionally
interested in getting to know you."

********************

The largest Mallorn that existed in Caras Galadon where Amroth once dwelled
looked amazingly new and unusual as they came upon it. Shimmering with the
same, yet somehow different luminescence as the other Mallorns now did, it
appeared much grander than they remembered. The long winding staircase that
led up to the receiving room and quarters above was now alive with light, and
the further they climbed the brighter it became. From the low murmurs amongst
them, it was obvious that they were both in awe and duly impressed. Haldir
however, kept his excitement in check. He not yet knew what this new
development might mean for himself and his brothers.

As they seated themselves in the receiving room, Galadriel looked upon them
with a smile and a twinkle in her eyes. "I think we will start with you." She
said, pointing to Siddhir. "The rest of you may relax until we are done."

"Yes, my Lady." Siddhir answered, as he rose and followed Galadriel and
Celeborn into another room. Galdor remained behind. He chose the vacancy that
Siddhir had left and sat next to Tinion, looking at him closely.

"It is a day of great changes. Is it not?" 

Tinion smiled. "It is. But, I feel they are good changes. I welcome them."

"As do we all, I am sure." Fereveldir added. "Although losing Lord Amroth was
not something we ever anticipated would happen."

Galdor nodded kindly. "We all must choose our own paths. He chose his seeking
out his love."

Dinendal sighed. "That is true." He turned to Haldir. "Can I assist you with
the children, Haldir?"

Haldir did not hear him. He was lost in thought, staring at the door that
Siddhir went through with Galadriel and Celeborn. He did not even notice that
Orophin was now asleep as well, with his head resting against his shoulder. 

********************

Galadriel smiled and nodded to Celeborn. "He is the one whose presence I
felt."

"You are of Elrond's line, I presume?" Celeborn inquired.

" I am a distant cousin." Siddhir admitted, with a smile. "I am called
Siddhir."

Galadriel grinned. " I would say that you were not so very distant. I took
some doing to keep your light from invading mine. We are very pleased to meet
you, Siddhir."

"I too am pleased, fair lady. Forgive me, for my invasion was not
intentional. There are times when I cannot control my gift."

"How far can you reach? Can you see your own fate?" Celeborn asked.

"No, not directly. But there are times when I can see things that may involve
me through the perceptions of others. Even so, my gift seems to have a will
of its own. It controls me far more than I ever controlled it. Sometimes
images and voices will just come to me without warning, and then there are
times when I try to will it to the forefront and nothing happens."

"How very interesting." Galadriel remarked.

Siddhir grimaced. "It is at times, yes."

Celeborn chuckled. "Have you ever read Elrond?"

"I have, and he has known and chastised me for it every time. His gift is
very strong." Siddhir replied with a grin.

"That is very true." Galadriel commented.

"Siddhir, I would like you to stay here in Caras Galadon as part of our own
personal guard. A gift like yours, however erratic it may be- can certainly
be of help. Have you any objections?"

"None, my Lord."

"Good. We have but a few more questions in getting to know you, and then you
will be free to go."

Siddhir's dark eyes sparkled brightly as his gift suddenly enlightened him to
Celeborn's thoughts. He gazed quickly at Galadriel, knowing instinctively
that she could also be aware. Her slight wink and dazzling smile quickly
confirmed his suspicions. He returned his gaze to Celeborn. "I know, my Lord.
I am ready."

********************

"Haldir?"

Haldir blinked and turned to Dinendal. "Forgive me. You said something?"

Dinendal's soft features spread into a wide grin. "I asked if you needed help
with the children. Are they not cumbersome upon you in that position?"

Haldir suddenly became aware of Orophin's weight against his shoulder, and
shifted Rumil to his other arm, so that Orophin could rest his head on his
lap instead. He smiled. "I had not noticed until now. Thank you, but I can
manage."

"Very well." Dinendal answered.

The door opened, and Siddhir locked eyes with Haldir as he walked back out to
the receiving room. Haldir returned his gaze with the same intensity until
Celeborn cleared his throat.

"You must be Haldir. Lord Amroth spoke very highly of you when we saw him
last almost a year ago. Please join us."

Dinendal, being seated closest to Haldir helped to pull Orophin up from his
lap. Haldir stood, and gently nudged him awake. He started to hand a still
sleeping Rumil to Dinendal when Galadriel appeared in the open doorway.

"No, bring them Haldir. We would like very much to meet your brothers as
well."

Haldir shifted Rumil again and took Orophin by the hand, slowly following the
Lord and Lady inside; all the while feeling Siddhir's piercing gaze upon his
back.

********************

Elrond came upon Anarin in the gardens shortly after dinner and greeted him
with a smile. "Anarin, it is good to see you again. I regret that I had not
the time to converse with you more a few days ago. How have you been faring?"

Anarin bowed, and smiled warmly in return. "I fare well, my Lord. Thank you
for asking."

"Come; let us sit and chat awhile. Is this not a lovely eve?"

"It is indeed, my Lord." Anarin replied, as they took a seat together on a
nearby bench.

Elrond looked into the Elf's kind green eyes. "Tell me, Anarin. When I came
upon you that day with Haldir, had the two of you had a disagreement before I
arrived?"

"Nay, my Lord. I had not been with him long, but Haldir and I got along well.
His discord was with Melpomaen. Although I know not all of what it was
about."

"What do you know?" Elrond inquired.

Anarin sighed. "I know not of Haldir's words exactly, but I surmised that he
may have been interested in Melpomaen. Melpomaen however, was harsh in his
rejection of him in return. I was quite shocked. So was Haldir."


Elrond's surprise showed clearly on his features. "*Melpomaen? *Are you
certain?"

"I am, my Lord."

"I am shocked as well. I have never known Melpomaen to be cruel."

"Nor have I, my Lord. Mayhap he is troubled." Anarin suggested.

"Perhaps you are right." Elrond replied, as he stood. "I think I will seek
him out. If someone in my house is troubled, I would know why; for I pride
myself in keeping harmony within our walls. I would hope that if you were to
ever become so bothered, you would come to me."

Anarin smiled. "I would, my Lord. Worry not."

Elrond placed a hand on Anarin's shoulder. "Thank you for your help, *mellon*
[friend]. Enjoy the rest of your evening."

********************

"Haldir, please tell the others we will be with them momentarily." Galadriel
stated, as she handed a giggling Rumil back to him. Celeborn chuckled at the
elfling's infectious laughter.

"Yes, my Lady."

Galadriel kneeled down to face Orophin. "It is very nice to have met you,
Orophin."

Orophin blushed and bowed. "Thank you, my Lady."

Galadriel rose and smiled as she gazed into Haldir's intense grey eyes. "Such
a burden you were left to bear, *pen-neth* [young one], but you took it upon
you and shouldered it as your own. You have done well, Haldir. We are proud
to know you."

Haldir's surprise was clearly conveyed by an expression that held both
bewilderment and wonder. He shifted Rumil to the other arm and bowed, guiding
Orophin with him. Celeborn smiled and clapped and hand on Haldir's shoulder
when he rose.

"The hour draws late, Captain. You are excused. We will talk with you again
soon, for you too have been selected to stay here in Caras Galadon as part of
our personal guard. Is that agreeable with you?"

Haldir breathed a sigh of relief and smiled. "Certainly, my Lord."

"Good. Go now, I am sure your brothers are both tired and hungry." Celeborn
replied.

"Yes, my Lord. *Quel undome* [good evening]. *Quel undome,* my Lady."

Galadriel smiled. "*Quel undome,* Haldir."

They both watched as Haldir guided Orophin through the open door, then
stepped through it himself, closing it gently behind him.

Galadriel immediately turned to her husband. "Oh, *melamin!* [my love] Do you
feel for them as I do? Do you know what I am thinking?"

Celeborn chuckled and drew her into his arms. "But of course, *mela en'
coiamin* [love of my life]. One does not have to possess the gift of
foresight to see that."
FIVE


 
Things progressed rapidly under the new rule of Celeborn and Galadriel, for
all were eager to resume their peaceful way of life. Within a few weeks the
Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel had personally met with every elf who
dwelled in Lorien; and all guard posts were swiftly relocated without
incident within the great divide. Rosters were drawn up and assigned on a
weekly basis for the balance of the guard, while the Captains and firsts in
command from all four contingents had been selected to remain in Caras
Galadon, except when overseeing all guard posts on a rotating basis.

The calm was briefly interrupted by sorrow when as promised, Celeborn and
Galadriel held services for Lord Amroth. The whole of Lorien attended, for
Lord Amroth had been very good to his people, and even though it was a bright
sunny day, a gloom seemed to hang over them as they both remembered and said
a fond farewell to their beloved lost Lord. After the services ended, a
shadow stayed with them throughout the remainder of the day and long into the
night. Although they were excited and happy with their new rulers, they could
not help but feel deeply the loss of their old and trusted one. Lorien was
quieter that night than it had been in hundreds of years.

********************

 Rumil giggled and slapped his hands hard on the water, making it spray and
catch both Haldir and Orophin square in their faces. He burst forth then in
fits of giggles and splashed more when he saw the obvious displeasure it
brought them. Orophin started to whine, and Haldir lifted the thrashing
toddler swiftly out of the water.

"That is enough, mischievous one. Every bath I give you results in a bath for
us as well." He scolded.

"He does that on purpose, brother." Orophin groaned, wiping his face.

Haldir wrapped Rumil in a cloth and turned to look at his younger sibling.
"You did much the same when you were his age. Do not judge him so harshly,
*pen-neth* [young one].

As if knowing Orophin was upset, Rumil reached out and touched his face.
Haldir smiled.

"You see? He was just playing, Oro. He loves you just as I do."

"I suppose." 

Haldir shifted Rumil to his other arm. "You need not suppose, for it is so. I
know these things- and you would do well to remember that. Now come; gather
our belongings from the shore so that we may go and find ourselves something
to eat."

********************

"You are quite a good shot." Galdor remarked, as he came upon Tinion on the
practice field.

Tinion turned to him and smiled. "*Hannon lle* [thank you].

"You are most welcome. Please forgive the intrusion. I have been watching you
for quite some time. I felt that I should at least advise you of my presence
here."

Tinion let loose another arrow that found its mark. "That is very kind, but I
knew you were there. I surmised you would speak to me when you chose to."

Galdor laughed heartily. "Is that so?"

"It is indeed." Tinion answered with a wink. Then he turned, walked over to
the target and pulled his spent arrows from it.  

Galdor watched him with growing interest. "I was about to have breakfast.
Would you care to join me?"

"I certainly would, for I am famished- but we must stop by my talan first so
I can rid myself of my weapons if you do not mind."

Galdor looked long into Tinion's large shimmering blue eyes. "Of course not."

Tinion smiled. "Good." 

As they left the practice field, Galdor grinned and stole a glance at the
fair, silver haired sentinel. The undertone in his statement was not lost on
him. He liked this elf. He liked him a lot.

********************

"Ah, Haldir! Come; join us," Fereveldir called out when Haldir entered the
common with Orophin and Rumil. Haldir nodded to him in acknowledgement and
started to make his way over. He stopped once to chat with Orolonn and his
wife Aranel before he finally joined them, allowing Orophin to sit first
before taking a seat beside him and placing Rumil between them.

"*Mae Govannen.*" [well met] Haldir greeted, nodding both to Fereveldir and
Siddhir, who sat beside him. Siddhir smiled and nodded in return.

"You are looking well, Haldir." Fereveldir commented.

Haldir smiled back at him. "As are you, *mellon.*"[friend]

"*Hannon lle.*" [thank you] Fereveldir replied, smiling as he looked at
Siddhir, who was quietly watching Haldir feed Rumil. "I do not think you two
have been properly introduced. Haldir, this 

is Siddhir, formerly of the east contingent. Siddhir, this is Haldir, from
here in Caras Galadon. The two little ones are Haldir's brothers, Orophin and
Rumil."

"Pleased to meet you." Haldir greeted.

Siddhir's smile lit up his already strikingly fair features. "And I you. I
have heard much about you."

Haldir frowned. "Do not believe all of what you hear."

Fereveldir laughed. " I have informed him of that already, *mellon* [
friend]."

"*Hannon lle.*"

" I rarely pay attention to idle gossip. I much prefer to make my own
assessments." Siddhir remarked.

Haldir looked straight into the fair elf's curiously dark eyes. "Then I would
say you are wise indeed." 

The comment brought a light chuckle from Siddhir.

They all nodded to Tinion and Galdor when they entered and chose a bench not
far from them. Fereveldir turned to Siddhir with a smile.

"I think Tinion has found other company, friend."

Siddhir laughed. "Well, that is quite all right. I have found other company
as well."

Haldir looked at him, and saw something different in his eyes this time.
Before he could decipher what it may have been, both Siddhir and Fereveldir
abruptly stood. "My Lady," Fereveldir whispered.

Haldir turned sharply to see Galadriel standing behind him and hurriedly got
to his feet. "Forgive me, my Lady. I did not see you behind me."

Galadriel giggled and smiled, her bright blue eyes sparkling in the day's
light. "Be seated, all of you. I am just out enjoying this wonderful day."

They sat, and Galadriel kneeled down to play with Rumil. The toddler giggled
and offered her a grape he held in his hands. She took it, and put it in her
mouth. This delighted Rumil, and he reached out and pulled more from the
large platter laid out in front of him on the large table.

"Take care, my Lady. You might find your clothing quite soiled if he gets it
in his mind to try and feed you as he does me." Haldir warned.

Galadriel grinned. "'Tis only clothing after all, Captain. May I hold him?"

Haldir's eyes widened. "If you wish, my Lady-but I must warn you, he is prone
to hair pulling."

"I will be fine." She answered, lifting Rumil up from the bench. Rumil
giggled and immediately reached for her hair. 

"Ru!" Haldir scolded, rising quickly and catching his small hand. Rumil,
puzzled, looked up at Haldir with wide eyes. "Da?"

Galadriel smiled. ""Tis all right, Haldir. You may release him."

"But, my Lady…"

"Release him." She repeated in a soft voice.

Haldir did as he was told, and to his horror, Rumil promptly shot out his
hand again. But the elfling did not pull Galadriel's hair. Instead he merely
stroked it and laughed.

Behind him, Fereveldir, Siddhir and even Orophin began to chortle. Haldir
stood there in shock as Rumil turned to him and smiled. "Da!"

"You see? It is as I told you. I would like to take them off your hands for a
time. Is that agreeable with you?" Galadriel asked.

Haldir's features registered the shock he was still feeling. "Ah, y...yes my
Lady." He stammered.

"Very well. I shall return them in one hour." She reached out her hand to
Orophin, who took it. They started to walk away, and then she turned back.
"Haldir, will you stay here, or will you return to your talan?"

"Um, I will stay here, my Lady."

She smiled. "Very well. We will soon return."

Haldir watched open mouthed as Galadriel almost glided out of the common with
his brothers. Slowly he turned back around and sat down. Fereveldir laughed
hard.

"Not to worry, *mellon.* [friend] I do not believe that our Lady will kidnap
them."

Haldir blinked. "It is not that. Did you see how *good* Rumil was with her?
It was unbelievable! If it were anyone else he would have ripped their hair
out the first chance he got."

Siddhir grinned. "He may be an elfling, but he is a *wise* elfling for
certain."


Fereveldir laughed and stood. "Well, as I have had my share of entertainment
this day, I will be going. I am due to relieve Dinendal's watch."

"*Namarie, mellonamin.*"[farewell my friend] Haldir and Siddhir chorused in
unison. Fereveldir smiled, and winked at Siddhir.

"I trust you will keep my good friend Haldir company while he waits for his
brothers to return?"

"But of course." Siddhir replied, gazing into Haldir's eyes.

"Good. *Quel re.*" [good day] He strolled off in the direction that Galadriel
had taken, nodding briefly to Tinion and Galdor as he passed.

"Do you like it here in Caras Galadon?" Haldir asked.

"Yes, I like it very much," Siddhir answered.

Haldir looked at him. "How is it that I have never noticed you before? How
long have you been in the east?"

 Siddhir chuckled. "I have been in the east for *centuries.* I suppose our
paths simply have not crossed until now."

Haldir's brow furrowed. "Still, I find it odd. Where were you before that?"

"Rivendell."

Haldir's eyebrow rose ever so slightly. *That* is what makes him seem odd and
yet familiar at the same time, he thought. The elf looked of Lorien… well,
almost, if not for the eyes- but he also had an air about him that was
distinctly of Imladris.

"Penny for your thoughts, Captain." Siddhir remarked.

"Can you not read them?" 

Siddhir's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Not at the moment, but give me
time."

Haldir was about to retort, when Galadriel entered the common again, but
alone this time. Haldir's hear thumped in his chest. Something has happened,
he thought, apprehensively.

Suddenly he felt Siddhir's hand lightly tap his shoulder. "There is no need
to worry, Haldir. Your brothers are fine. Our Lady just wishes to speak with
you. I will take my leave."

Stunned, he turned to face him, but Siddhir was already strolling off in the
opposite direction. He turned back just as Galadriel reached him. "Is
something wrong, my Lady?"

Galadriel smiled. "By the Valar, no. Your brother's are fine. They are with
my husband, and having a lovely time. I have come now for you, Haldir."

"My Lady?"

Galadriel sat down on the bench where he stood, and patted the space beside
her. "Come; sit down. I wish to speak with you."

Haldir did as he was told, with anxiety building fast within him. Galadriel
took his hand. "There is no need to worry, Haldir. Please relax. All I wish
to do is ask you something."

"Yes, my Lady?"

"I have talked it over with my husband, and he is as excited as I with the
idea. Now, I wish to discuss it with you. You see, I am no longer able to
bear children. Celebrian, the one child I did have, died in an Orc attack,
much like your parents. There has been an empty space in my heart for a very
long time, for I had hoped to have many children."

Haldir's eyes widened in realization. "You wish to adopt my brothers as your
own?"

"We wish to adopt your brothers- *and* you, Haldir."

Haldir blinked. "But my Lady, I have already reached my majority. Surely you
do not mean to include me."

Galadriel smiled. "We *especially* wish to include you, Haldir. Just because
you have reached your majority, is no reason for you to be alone."

"Um… I do not know what to say, my Lady."

"I would hope you would say yes."

"Would I still be able to care for them?" Haldir asked.

"But of course! I did not mean to imply that you would no longer be able to
see them! By the graces, no! We would *help* you to raise them. They love you
very much, Haldir. We could not tear them away from you if we *tried*- which
we most certainly would not. Think of it this way; instead of having to
enlist others in Lorien to assist you when you have to be away, you would
have *us* to look after them. We would be your foster parents."

Haldir visibly relaxed. "I understand, but I would wish no special favours
because of this, my Lady."

Galadriel chuckled. "Lord Amroth took a shine to you as well. Did he bring
upon you any special favours? Did you not get your position because you
*earned* it?"

"I did, my Lady" Haldir answered.

"Well then, there is no reason why we should do different, is there?" 

"No, my Lady."

Galadriel took his hands in hers. Haldir could feel the warmth of her concern
flow through them. He looked into her shining blue eyes. "*Hannon lle,
Arwenamin*." [thank you, my Lady]

Galadriel smiled, and bent forward to kiss him on the forehead. "Do we have
an accord?"

Haldir smiled. "If you are certain, yes, my Lady."

Galadriel's light laughter surrounded them. She stood, and he rose with her,
for she had not yet released his hand. Instead, she looked up at him and
smiled.

"I am pleased to be able to call you my foster son, Haldir. Come now; let us
seek out those wonderful brothers of yours, for they have asked for you."

As they left the common, Siddhir's smiling eyes followed them.
SIX

  
A week later, Fereveldir and Haldir were shooting arrows on the practice
field when Siddhir happened by. He stopped to watch, and took a seat next to
Orophin, who was sitting on the grass not far from his brother's side.

"Hello, Orophin. Do you mind if I sit by you?" Siddhir asked politely.

"You may. We have to be quiet, though. My brother does not like to be
distracted when he is practicing."

Siddhir smiled and placed a finger to his lips. They both turned to watch
again.

Fereveldir laughed. "I am catching up with you in points, Haldir. You must
not be feeling well today. It is either that or you are just rusty from lack
of practice whilst lying around Rivendell."

Haldir smirked. "Do not be fooled, *mellon*. [friend]. I feel quite well. I
was just giving you some leeway so as not to destroy you completely in
defeat. We cannot have captains wallowing in self pity here in Caras Galadon.
We must set an example for the others."

Fereveldir laughed even harder, which made Siddhir smile. Fereveldir turned
to him. "Do you hear him, Siddhir? His self confidence is astonishing, is it
not?"

"It is. Especially since he is the one losing at the moment." Siddhir agreed.

Haldir raised an eyebrow. "Ah, but only for the moment, non- believer. Would
you care to join dear Fereveldir in defeat? You may then console each other."

Siddhir smiled. "I would indeed, but I have not my bow."

"Fortunate for you, *gwador* [brother, not related]. I suppose I will just
have to annihilate you some other day. But alas, you shall have a sample of
my prowess with a bow when I put dear Fereveldir out of his misery." Haldir
chuckled.

"*Antolle ulua sulrim, mellonamin.*[much wind pours from your mouth, my
friend]. Fereveldir laughed.

Haldir snickered. "Wind you say? We shall see. It is your turn, with six
arrows left. Proceed."

Fereveldir smiled, and raised his bow. He fired his six arrows in rapid
succession. When he was done, they looked at the mark. Two of his arrows had
hit dead centre, two were placed an inch away from the gold, and the final
two rested at the very end of the board. He groaned before looking at Haldir,
who smiled brightly.

"Hmm, I think it is you who are feeling ill, my friend," Haldir laughed.

Fereveldir pulled his arrows from the target. "I admit it was not my best
shooting, but you will have to make at least three centre hits now to best
me." Fereveldir countered.

"That is true."

"Will you concede now?" Fereveldir asked.

Haldir raised an eyebrow. "I think not." He turned then to Orophin. "Can I
win, Oro?"

Orophin smiled with delight. "Yes, brother. You can win." 

Siddhir chuckled.

Haldir winked at Fereveldir. "Oro says I can win. *Lle diesel?* [are you
ready]?

"I am ready." Fereveldir grinned.

Haldir raised his bow and fired off six arrows so quickly it was all a blur,
but they *heard* it- the crisp twanging sound of the bow and the whooshing
sound of the six arrows that left it. Fereveldir's mouth dropped open as
Siddhir and Orophin stood to get a better look.

Not only did all six of Haldir's arrows hit the gold, one lay embedded in the
very centre while the other five closely circled it. So closely, that one
could not pull out the centre arrow without disturbing the other five.
Orophin clapped his hands with delight.

Siddhir smiled and turned back to look at Haldir. "Impressive."

Haldir grinned and took a bow. "*Hannon lle.*" [thank you]

Fereveldir shook his head, smiling. "You have bested me again! I cannot
believe your luck."

"Luck had *nothing* to do with that, *mellon*. [friend]" Haldir replied,
winking as he took Orophin's hand. "I will give you another chance any time
you like."

"I think I would like a chance, Haldir." Siddhir remarked.

Haldir raised an eyebrow. "Oh, you would, would you? Very well; choose a day,
and I will be here."

"How about now? I will retrieve my bow and quickly return." Siddhir offered,
with a twinkle in his chocolate eyes.

Haldir frowned. "I have spent most of the morn shooting, whilst you would be
fresh. You would have me at a disadvantage."


Siddhir grinned, and looked into Haldir's eyes, challenging him. "I would
think that one who possessed skill, would have it *always.* Unless, of
course- it was just luck after all."

Fereveldir laughed hard at the look that crossed Haldir's features. Haldir
stared at Siddhir for a long time before answering. Finally he said, "Get
your bow."

Siddhir laughed and sprinted off into the wood. Neither he nor the others
noticed Celeborn smiling as he watched from the woods behind them.

********************

"Have I told you how pleased I am to have met you, *lirimaer*[ lovely one]?"
Galdor asked.

Tinion chuckled. "A thousand times, *melethron nin* [my lover], but you may
continue. I never tire of hearing it."

Galdor chuckled. "Never in all my many years upon this earth have I met
another as exhilarating and refreshing as you."

Tinion smiled, and then abruptly stepped back, pulling Galdor with him as
Siddhir sprinted by them.

"Whoa, sentinel! What is the reason for such haste?" Tinion called out to
Siddhir's back. Siddhir stopped and turned to them.

"I have to retrieve my bow quickly. I have challenged Haldir to a shoot."

Tinion chuckled. "Have you gone mad? No one can best Haldir with a bow- or a
sword for that matter. We have all tried, and we have all failed." 

Galdor smiled.

Siddhir winked. "There is a first time for everything."

"I have no doubt your skill with a bow is exemplary, for you would not have
been named Captain of the east contingent were it not- but taking on Haldir
is no easy task. He will no doubt obliterate you on the field now for having
the nerve to challenge him," Tinion warned.

Siddhir laughed. "Then he will have to, because what is done is done. I must
go now, for they are waiting."

Siddhir left, and Tinion turned to Galdor with a grin. "Do you mind if we
return to the practice fields?  I would not miss this for the heavens." 

Galdor smiled. "Of course not. It seems that we will be quite entertained."

They turned around and headed back the way they had come, with Tinion telling
all they met along the way of the upcoming spectacle.

********************

Galadriel stepped out on the terrace of her talan with Rumil in her arms. It
was a wondrously clear afternoon, with many billowy white clouds of countless
shapes stretching across the great powder blue expanse of sky. She breathed
in deeply and sighed.

She noticed movement below her. Several elves were running towards the
practice fields. She frowned. She knew Haldir had gone there earlier and had
taken Orophin with him, but she knew not where her husband was. She hoped
that nothing ill had happened there.

"Anyriand, can you tell me why so many are going to the practice fields?" She
called out to a tall lean elf who was passing below her.

The elf looked up. "It seems that Captain Siddhir has challenged Captain
Haldir to a shooting match, my Lady."

Galadriel smiled. "Is that so? Thank you sentinel, you may continue on your
way."

"Very well, my Lady." Anyriand replied, departing.

Galadriel chuckled to herself, gave a grinning Rumil a gentle squeeze and
went back inside. She knew now where her husband had to be. If there was a
shooting match, he was bound to be close enough to witness it, but far enough
so that the participants could not see him watching. He had been doing so
ever since they discussed whom they might name Marchwarden. 

********************

When Siddhir returned, he looked around wide-eyed, for several elves had
gathered along the practice field. Haldir frowned and pulled himself up from
the grass when he spotted him and walked over to meet him.

"I realise you do not know me well Siddhir, but I must tell you- I really
*abhor* spectacles. Did you inform every elf you met along the way that we
were shooting here?"

Siddhir grimaced. "Nay, Haldir. The only one I told was Tinion. Galdor was
with him, though."

"I should have known." Haldir grumbled, turning to look where Tinion was
standing. Tinion winked back at him, smiling broadly. He returned his
attention to Siddhir. "You realise of course that I will make you pay dearly
for this."

Siddhir laughed. "I realise that you must try."


Haldir smirked. "We shall see. Come; you have made me wait long enough."

They walked together towards the centre of the field. Siddhir turned to
Haldir with a wicked grin. "I think we should try something a little more
challenging instead of standard target practice."

Haldir raised an eyebrow.  "What would you suggest?"

Siddhir looked around. "I think we should shoot doubles, and while moving.
That will make it so much more interesting. Do you not agree?"

"Continue." Haldir prompted.

"Six targets, spaced out, about thirty yards apart. We will run from one to
the other, taking our best shot at each, from the same distance. How does
that sound?"

"It sounds like you will not only be bested, but you will be spent from
exertion as well." Haldir replied.

Siddhir burst out in joyful laughter. "Shall we proceed?"

Haldir held out his hand. "After you. You are challenging me after all."

Siddhir grinned and walked away. Haldir turned and walked over to Anyriand.
"Sentinel, please set forth six targets, side by side, thirty yards apart."

"You are to shoot whilst *moving*?" The elf queried, shock etched clear on
his face.

"Yes, sentinel." Siddhir answered.

"But Captain, surely you know it is quite dangerous to do so; dangerous even
for all those who watch." The elf countered.

Siddhir smiled and grasped Anyriand on the shoulder. "Worry not, *mellon.*
[friend] Trust that I would not suggest anything that might cause harm to
others. They are at quite a safe distance at any rate, as you can plainly
see."

The elf looked around and nodded. "Yes, Captain."

All waited while Anyriand went about his task. Celeborn chuckled to himself
under the cover of a great Mallorn and watched with increasing interest. When
Anyriand was done, Haldir strolled over to Siddhir.

"Has the stage been set to your liking?"

Siddhir smiled. "Yes, it is fine."

Haldir held out his hand. "After you."

Siddhir winked, took his bow from his back, and walked until he was a little
past the location of the first target. All were silent. The lithe elf
suddenly broke out into a sprint, thirty yards away and parallel with the
targets, shooting an arrow at each as he approached it- until he had hit them
all and was standing on the other side of the field. Applause rang out from
the elves gathered there. Haldir and several others moved in close to the
targets to see where Siddhir's arrows had landed. Three were in the gold. The
remaining three were close enough; not quite in the centre, but definitely in
the zone.

"Three are dead centre!" Tinion called out. More applause from the elves,
including Celeborn from his hiding place, as Siddhir joined them. Haldir
turned to him.

"Impressive. I see now why you had the guts to challenge me."

Siddhir smiled. "Do you *still* think you can best me?"

Haldir licked his lip. "I know not. We shall see. Orophin!"

Orophin jumped up from the grass and ran over to him. "Yes, brother?"

"Can I win, Oro?" Haldir asked, with a wink.

Orophin smiled brightly. "Yes, brother. You can win."

Haldir turned to Siddhir. "Oro says I can win, so win I must."

Siddhir chuckled. "Your challenge awaits."

"It does indeed." Haldir said, lifting his bow and walking away to take his
position. Orophin, Tinion, Siddhir and the others quickly ran back to their
places in the crowd, which had grown even larger since Siddhir's shoot. The
din within them silenced abruptly when Haldir reached the starting point.

Haldir closed his eyes for a second, and then opened them and started to run
the same path as Siddhir, shooting at the targets one by one as he quickly
passed them. He could hear the roars of the crowd grow louder and louder with
each target, telling him that he had hit his mark each time. Finally, he was
done. He waited while the cloud of dust he had created dissipated, and then
slowly walked back to join the others. As the thunderous applause continued,
Celeborn smiled brightly, chuckling as he quietly slipped away unseen. 

"Haldir has won!" Tinion announced, at full volume.

"Elbereth!" Siddhir swore as he ran by the targets one by one, examining
them. They were all the same; dead center in the gold. Of the three perfect
shots he scored himself, Haldir's arrows had 

split each one of his own arrows and had taken their place. He turned to face
Haldir when he approached, astonishment clearly edging his features.

"I have learned a great lesson this day, *mellon* [friend]." 

Haldir smiled. "Have you? And what would it be?"

"'Tis not arrogance, but confidence that drives you thus." Siddhir remarked,
with a broad smile. "Tell me, are you as good in the bedchamber as you are
with a bow?"

Haldir blinked, and started to laugh- amused that along with Tinion, there
was yet *another* elf who possessed the same bravado as himself. He leaned in
close so that Siddhir could not mistake his reply. "Did you not hear? My
proclivities in *that*area are *also* well documented facts of Elven lore."

He winked and left a stunned Siddhir standing there smiling, as he took
Orophin's hand and strolled away from the practise fields. The crowd began to
disband slowly behind them, excitedly chatting about the day's challenge.
Tinion placed an arm across Siddhir's shoulders as he walked with Galdor and
Fereveldir by his side.

"Well, he annihilated you as is his fashion, but I must admit, you gave him
one *hell* of a fight. You did well, Siddhir. You deserve all due credit. I
am sure Haldir would agree with me."

Siddhir laughed. "*Hannon lle, mellon* [thank you, friend], but I was really
only trying to get him to notice me."

Fereveldir grinned. "Oh, he *noticed* you all right. Have no fear there, my
friend. My, what an eventful day! Are you as famished as I am? Come; let us
seek some nourishment."
SEVEN



It was near dusk when Haldir entered the common and seated himself amongst a
group of elves having dinner there. Several of them started to applaud when
they saw him. He smiled and waved his hand, begging them to stop. Many
praised him anyway for his skill with a bow. He endured their comments and
questions with subtle grace and eventually they quieted down. He served
himself a plate of food and quietly started to eat.

It was not long before applause rang out yet again. Haldir turned to see
Siddhir, Fereveldir and Dinendal enter the common. Fereveldir spotted him and
led them over to the table where he sat. Haldir nodded politely at them. His
longtime friend's angular face broke out into a wide grin as he and the
others filled the empty places beside him.

"You were *incredible* today, *mellon.*[friend] I am *certain* now that you
were only toying with me all these months." Fereveldir chuckled.

Haldir smiled demurely. "Mayhap the Valar was just with me today,
*mellonamin* [my friend]"

"In a pig's eye!" Siddhir cut in. "What you did this day was neither by grace
nor chance. You are a skilled warrior, Haldir. You should state yourself as
nothing less."

"Never has a truer word been spoken." Dinendal added, biting into a
strawberry.

Haldir raised an eyebrow and looked deep into Siddhir's eyes. "You are quite
the skilled warrior yourself, and a worthy opponent indeed."

"*Hannon lle*" [thank you]. Siddhir replied with a bright smile.

"Where are Ru and Oro this eve?" Fereveldir asked.

"They are with our Lord and Lady. I went to collect Ru after the match, but
he was already asleep, so I did not disturb him. Oro was weary as well, so we
decided that it would be best for them to spend the night there, although I
miss them terribly. Our talan is far too quiet without them." Haldir
answered.

Fereveldir smiled. "I am certain they are missing you too, *mellonamin*."[my
friend]

 They ate in silence for a few moments. Slowly the common began to empty,
eventually leaving only the four of them seated at one of the many large
tables. Dinendal groaned and pushed his plate aside, rubbing his stomach.

"I think I may have overdone it. Everything was so good, but now I am
miserable."



Fereveldir laughed. "You are not alone, *mellon* [friend]. I think I have
eaten enough myself to last for several days."

Dinendal's cerulean eyes sparkled as he glanced at Siddhir and Haldir. "You
two did not eat much." He turned then to Fereveldir. "Perhaps our gluttony is
the reason we cannot surpass them on the practice fields, eh, Fereveldir?"

Fereveldir laughed hard, and was joined by all. "Perhaps you are right."

Haldir shook his head. "Do not underestimate yourselves, my friends. You too
are worthy archers. Were you not, you would not have earned your positions
here."

Dinendal's full lips curled into a smile. "Be that as it may, I think the
next time I shoot against either of you, I will do so with an empty stomach."

"Here, here." Fereveldir remarked, raising his goblet for all to touch.

Dinendal finished his wine and stood. "It has been a lovely evening, but I
must leave you now, for I have watch in the morning."

"As do I." Fereveldir added, popping a last grape into his mouth and rising
from the table. "I will walk with you, Dinendal. I would like to stop in and
say hello to Calaglin before retiring. *Quel du * [good night], Haldir;
Siddhir."

"*Quel du.*" Haldir and Siddhir chorused in return. They watched as their
friends left the common, laughing together on their way. When they were out
of sight, Siddhir turned to look at Haldir.

"It seems we have been left completely alone."

Haldir grinned, and looked around. "So it does. Do not worry yourself; You
need not stay just to keep me company. If you are weary, feel free to leave.
I do not have Ru and Oro to attend to, nor do I have watch on the morrow- so
I am free to enjoy the night. It is something I do not have the chance to do
very often."

Siddhir gazed into Haldir's grey eyes. "Do you wish me to leave?"

Haldir blinked. "No, I did not say that."

Siddhir smirked. "Good, for I was hoping you would show me those other
talents you spoke of."

Haldir's brow furrowed, confused. "What say you?"

"Oh, I see. ‘Twas not the truth, and you were boasting after all." Siddhir
chuckled.


Haldir sat there a moment gazing at Siddhir as if he had gone mad. Then all
at once, realization hit him. He smiled broadly.

"I never boast unless I am jesting, but you surprise me."

"How so?" Siddhir questioned.

"There are some who are ill at ease with the rumours that surround me,
although I suppose I should be flattered. Until now, only Tinion seemed not
to care or have an opinion. Have you not heard any the many tales spun of my
decadent lifestyle?" Haldir asked. 

"I have, and I care not." Siddhir retorted, staring straight into his eyes.

Haldir held his gaze for some time before speaking. Siddhir suddenly smiled,
confusing him all the more.

"Siddhir, I think perhaps we should talk," Haldir began.

Siddhir reached out and held his hand. "I do not wish to *talk,* Haldir. What
I *wish*- is for you to *do* what you were just thinking. I find that
position intriguing, for I have never been in it before."

Haldir's eyes widened at Siddhir's remark. He had forgotten that he possessed
the gift of foresight. Had he not been so aroused by this stunning elf's want
of him, he may have even blushed, for his thoughts had been seductive indeed. 

"Very well, but I warn you, fair one- you had best not be jesting when you
come to me in this manner. To do so would not be wise."

Siddhir laughed, ignoring the warning and stood, pulling Haldir with him.
"You have an empty talan this night. It would be best if we go there. I have
not a talan yet, and my accommodations at the present do not offer
solitude." 

********************

Elrond sat alone on the veranda, gazing out into the twilight. He felt,
rather than heard Erestor come up quietly behind him. He smiled, and spoke
without turning his head.

"It is all right, Erestor. Come; sit with me so that we both might enjoy this
lovely night together."

"Yes, my Lord." Erestor's soft voice replied, as he pulled out a chair and
took a seat.

"Could you not sleep either, friend?" Elrond asked.

"Not very well, I am afraid."

Elrond sighed. "We have been stricken with the same affliction it seems."

Erestor looked at him. He looked worn. "Have you been thinking of Lady
Celebrian, my Lord?"

Elrond smiled as he considered him. "You know me well."

"My Lord, forgive me if I trespass, but you should try to open your heart
again. Lady Celebrian would not want you to mourn her for an eternity in
solitude. She would wish to see you happy once more. You know I speak the
truth." Erestor remarked.

Elrond sighed. "I know."

"Could you not use help in raising your children as well? There are many fair
maidens about that would love to have that chance. You would not have to be
alone. Surely it is something you have pondered at one time or the other."

Elrond looked into the kind brown eyes of his good friend and councillor. "I
will never marry again. But, I have thought of companionship; very recently
in fact."

"Then you should seek it, my Lord." Erestor advised.

Elrond smiled. "Erestor, you are wise, and I am proud to have you as both my
friend and councillor. But tell me, why do you offer me advice that you do
not heed yourself?"

"My Lord?"

"You too are alone. Why do you not seek companionship?"

Erestor smiled nervously. He could not tell Elrond that he did indeed fancy
someone, but was afraid to voice his feelings. As well as he knew him, he did
not know if he could broach this particular subject with him, for it was not
conventional. The person he had developed feelings for was Glorfindel- not a
maiden. "Ah, well, my duties do not leave me much time for that at the
present."

Elrond laughed. "Then I must lessen your workload, my friend. You deserve
happiness as well as I."

Erestor shifted in his chair. " I think it best we concentrate on you, my
Lord. A happy ruler makes for a happy house."

 "There was one I considered; but alas, it was not meant to be."

"How so?" Erestor asked, interested.



Elrond sighed heavily. "Many reasons; memories of Celebrian, my own fears of
the irregular I suppose, but the most outstanding reason was that I foresaw
this person's happiness with another. Elbereth, there are times when I wished
I did not possess the gift."

"Irregular? Whatever do you mean, my Lord?"

Elrond smiled and looked at his companion. "I suppose I am old, set in my
ways and somewhat fearful of being totally adventurous. The young seem to
have the force of will to go about seeking what makes them happy, no matter
the cost or what others may think. I expect I have not yet reached that point
in my long life."

"My Lord, there was a time when I too would have agreed with you. But, I have
to tell you- when one is alone at night without the benefit of someone to
love, it makes you plead for the strength to throw all caution to the wind.
Personally, I secretly envy those that do."

Elrond raised an eyebrow and considered his raven-haired friend for a time
before speaking. "Can I tell you something, Erestor? I think I am inclined to
agree."

********************

"You must excuse the condition of my talan. Orophin and Rumil are quite
disorganized." Haldir apologized, as he quickly picked up things scattered
about by his younger siblings.

Siddhir smiled. "It matters not. I am a bit untidy myself as that goes."

"Is that why every time I have seen you your braids are in disarray?" Haldir
questioned.

Siddhir touched his misshapen braids and chuckled. "I care not about
conformity. Whether my braids are neat or no has nothing to do with my skill
as a warrior. Even Lord Amroth tired of reprimanding me for it. I am
surprised *you* noticed, however. I thought you noticed naught about me at
all, which was the true reason I challenged you."

Haldir smiled and moved closer to him. "Is that so? Well, as it happens, I
noticed you some time ago, *gwador.*"[brother-not related]

"Ah! So why are we still talking?"

Haldir grinned, and kissed him softly on the lips. "Because I would not want
you to be misled, impatient one."

"No one misleads *me* into anything, Haldir. Make no mistake about that. But,
you surprise me as well. From the tales I *have* heard, never in a thousand
years would I have thought that you were so inhibited." Siddhir teased.



Haldir raised an eyebrow and swiftly pulled Siddhir into a tight embrace.
"*Inhibited?* We shall see about *that*, *lirimaer* [lovely one]. Come; for I
too have grown weary of talk."
EIGHT


 
Siddhir awoke and reached out his arm in an attempt to feel the warmth of
Haldir's body. Instead, his hand raked across cool, crisp sheets. The bed was
empty. Perplexed, he turned over to see Haldir sitting at his desk,
apparently working on an ornately carved bow.

"*Quel amrun, melethron nin,*" [Good morning, my lover] Haldir greeted
without turning his head.

Siddhir smiled. "*Quel amrun.*I do hope it is something important that drags
you away from my side so soon, because I am not yet finished with you."

"Is that so?" Haldir chuckled. "I would think that after last eve, you would
be quite exhausted-not to mention tender."

Siddhir raised an eyebrow. "I am not a novice at coupling, Haldir. You are
just the first that I have come upon who is so well endowed. Even still,
after last eve, I can certainly say I am quite used to you now. So, how about
coming back to bed? What are you doing anyway?"

Haldir laughed. "We will see about that. Orophin's begetting day is soon
coming. I am working on his gift."

Siddhir slipped out of bed and strolled over to Haldir to get a better look
at the bow. "May I see it?"

"Of course." Haldir replied, handing it to him.

Siddhir gazed in wonder at the intricate design that Haldir had carved in the
polished wood. He moved a finger along the length of the bow and turned it
over for further inspection. Soon after, he handed it back to him.

"It is beautiful. Your work is first rate, Haldir. I can tell you have been
working on this for some time."

Haldir smiled as he looked at it. "I have."

 "I believe I am witnessing yet *another* of your many skills, *mir nin* [my
treasure],"Siddhir remarked, with a sly smile.

Haldir put the bow carefully aside and pulled him close. "I have a few, yes."

Siddhir looked into his eyes. "I would someday like to know them all."



Haldir was silent. He just sat there, staring up into Siddhir's ebony eyes as
he stood before him. Did he dare to hope that this magnificent, beautiful elf
could possibly be his and his alone? Would he even want him if not for the
passion they shared? Why was he even thinking about him in those terms? Had
he not long ago made a decision to give up on love? And rightfully so, for
love could only cause problems that he did not need, nor want. What he
*should* be doing is…

Siddhir frowned. "Have I said something wrong?"

Haldir blinked. Siddhir's voice abruptly cut off his train of thought.
"Forgive me. What say you?"

"I said I would someday like to know of all your talents. Are you all right?"

 "I am fine, but why do you ask? Surely you know already what I was
thinking."

Siddhir sighed. "Haldir, I have told you that my gift is not all powerful,
and it certainly is not totally controllable. I was *not* trying to read you.
Is this to be a problem between us?"

Haldir stood and pulled him close. "No, it is not a problem. Forgive me for
my assumptions. I am just a tad wary of those that have the ability to look
into my mind."

Siddhir smiled. "Why is that? Do you have something to hide?"

Haldir laughed, stepped back and spread his arms out wide. "Hide? What can I
hide? I am standing here in all my naked glory."

"And glorious your nakedness is too." Siddhir remarked, as his eyes moved
seductively over Haldir's muscular form. "Now perhaps you will share some of
its magnificence with me."

Haldir kissed him, and slowly backed him up until they both fell onto the
bed, with Siddhir lying beneath him. Their kiss still unbroken, their tongues
explored deeper into the sweet caverns of the other's mouth until finally
coming apart for much needed air.

"*Im anira lle."* [I desire you] Siddhir whispered, his dark, sparkling eyes
boring into Haldir's.

Haldir did not respond. Instead, he retrieved the small vial of oil that was
underneath the pillow and quickly coated himself and Siddhir's nether region
with it. When he was done, he did not have to coax the stunning, lithe elf's
legs upon his shoulders, for they were already there. 

"
Haldir whispered.

Siddhir gazed back at him with burning eyes. "Not soon enough."



Haldir smiled, then quickly found his lover's opening with his elfhood and
thrust forward, penetrating him in one swift motion. Siddhir's breath hitched
in his throat.

Haldir quickly leaned forward to nibble on Siddhir's ear as he moved inside
him, causing his lover to cry out with desire.

"I thought you were ready for me, *lirimaer* [ lovely one]." He cooed.

Siddhir did not answer. He grabbed Haldir behind the neck, pulled him close
and kissed him deeply, with such force Haldir thought he might swallow his
tongue. After a time he released him, and cried out again as another thrust
hit home.

Haldir was trying hard to pace himself and extend the intense pleasure he was
feeling being inside the writhing, sensuous elf beneath him, but the
combination of the warm tightness of his body, his frantic undulating
movements, and moans of pleasure were about to undo him. He forced himself to
slow his thrusts.

"*Le daro! Saes! Le daro!" *[Don't stop! Please! Don't stop!] Siddhir cried
aloud. So loud, in fact that it briefly crossed his mind that all of Lorien
could hear. But it was no use. He could *not* stop, because he was too far
gone. So was Siddhir, and if the *world* heard them now- he cared not.

He grabbed his lover's elfhood and stroked it in time to his quicker, more
forceful thrusts. With every thrust he heard his name, over and over again. 

"Haldir! Haldir! Haldir! Aiya!" [Oh!]

They spent themselves together. Exhausted, Haldir collapsed on top of him. He
could hear and feel Siddhir's heavy breathing, and it matched his own. He was
still inside him as they rested for several moments, catching their breath.
When he could move again, he raised himself up so that Siddhir could lower
his legs, and pulled himself from him. Then he fell onto the bed beside him
and closed his eyes.

Siddhir's eyes were also closed, but his full lips curled into a wide grin.
"I believe you were not quite ready for *me*, *melethron nin.*" [my lover]

Haldir chuckled. "I believe you are right. You are unique indeed, *nin
bain*."[my beauty]

Siddhir opened his eyes and turned to face him. "How so?"

"Well, I have to say that I have not come across an elf such as you before. I
have spent much time perfecting the art of coupling for the most intense
pleasure possible, but you seem not to care much for the protocol at all."

Siddhir's bright laughter filled the room. Haldir smiled. The elf's beauty
was even more radiant. 

Siddhir turned to retrieve one of the sheets from the floor and used it to
clean his essence from Haldir's stomach. "That is true of me most times, but
be that as it may- I *do* occasionally care for protocol, so do not stop
honing your skills."

It was Haldir's turn to laugh.  Never had anyone so captivated him. Siddhir
was not only one of the most *beautiful* elves he had ever seen; but he had
both spirit and keen wit as well; all of which he found powerfully alluring.

Siddhir moved in to kiss him passionately. "You should laugh and smile more
often, Captain- for you are quite beautiful as well."

Haldir blinked. 

"Before you complain, it just came to me. I did not will it."

"What came to you?"

"That you think I am beautiful. That was all, I swear." Siddhir replied
seriously.

Haldir laughed and pulled him close. "It is all right, *mir nin* [my
treasure]. Your gift is a part of you, and I suppose I will just have to get
used to it."

Siddhir smiled. "I knew you had it in you to be reasonable."

"It does no good to fret upon things we cannot change." Haldir reasoned.

"My sentiments exactly. So, when is Orophin's begetting day? Will you be
finished with the bow in time?"

"Hopefully so. It is next month."

"That is not so very far away. Perhaps I should get going now and leave you
some time to work on it." Siddhir suggested.

"It is quite all right. I fear I will not have much time today anyway. I will
be going to pick my brothers up soon and spend time with them. I have watch
on the morrow and for three days after. I will not have much time to spend
with them then, so I want to get in what I can."

Siddhir looked into his eyes. "May I accompany you? I would love to get to
know them."

"Would you?"

"Certainly."



"Very well. I must warn you however, that Rumil is quite taken with hair
pulling, so you must be careful. Do not let him get a hold of you. He is
quite strong."

Siddhir laughed. "I will take precautions."

Haldir reached out and touched Siddhir's face, and looked deep into his dark
eyes. "Tell me, do you know what I am thinking at this very moment?"

Siddhir held his gaze. "You wish me to try?"

"Yes."

Siddhir continued to look into Haldir's intense grey eyes. No words or vision
came to him, but something else did. A warmth of feeling that seemed to surge
from Haldir's body into his. He could not quite explain it, or put the
sensation into words, but it was there- sound as steel, flowing through them
both, engulfing and washing over them.

"Nay, ‘tis nothing but a warm feeling." Siddhir answered.

Haldir kissed him. "Good, for I would not want to get ahead of myself and
possibly mislead you into challenging me again. Come; we should bathe and
dress for the hour is growing late."

********************

Tinion looked up as Galdor descended the stairs from Caras Galadon. When the
tall slender elf saw him standing there, he smiled warmly.

"Tinion, I am pleased to lay eyes upon you once again."

"I have come to see you off," Tinion replied.

Galdor's features expressed surprise. "Were you ordered thus? I told your
Lord and Lady that an escort was not necessary. I have come and gone from the
harbour many times."

Tinion walked beside him. "Nay. I have come because I *wished* to do so. I
will miss you, *melamin*. [my love]

 Galdor smiled. "And I you, *lirimaer*. [lovely one] But worry not, I will
always return. Hopefully the next time will not be very long in coming."

"I hope for that as well."

They trod on. Soon they reached the obscure narrow path that lead down to the
harbour, and slowly descended upon it. Before reaching the end, Tinion
stopped walking and grabbed 


Galdor's hand, pulling him close so that he might kiss him. Galdor responded
to the kiss with the same passion Tinion felt. When the kiss was over, Galdor
cupped Tinion's face in his hands.

"It will not be too long, *mir nin*. [my treasure] This I promise you."

"A day is too long,* melethron nin*, [my lover] but I will wait." Tinion
replied.

Galdor caressed his cheek, and pulled his fingers gently through Tinion's
silky mane of platinum hair. "*Lle ume vanima. Gerich veleth nin*, Tinion."
[You are beautiful. You have my love]

Tinion smiled. "*Gerich veleth nin*."

"You remember our agreement?" Galdor asked.

"I do."

"Good. Come now; I must not be late, and it probably is not a very good idea
for us to be seen being so intimate in public."

Tinion frowned. "Galdor, I have deep feelings for you and I care *not* who
knows it."

Galdor chuckled. "My, how I love when you vocalize your thoughts so
explicitly. You are so refreshing, *melamin*. [my love]

Tinion winked and held out his hand. "Shall we go?"

Galdor smiled and took it. They strolled hand in hand down to the harbour,
laughing all the way.

********************

"I cannot *believe* he has not pulled your hair yet!" Haldir exclaimed, as he
watched Rumil happy and content in Siddhir's arms.

Siddhir smiled. "Mayhap that is because I am special, eh? What do you think,
Orophin?"

Orophin looked up at him. "You have the gift like our Lady. You *are*
special. Mayhap Rumil knows it. Some babies are special too."

Siddhir chuckled, shifted Rumil to his other arm, and knelt down to address
Orophin face to face. "That is very possibly true, but by no means am I
*that* special, Orophin. My gift has naught the brilliance of that of our
Lady. In fact, it pales miserably in comparison. Rumil just likes me better
is all." He winked slyly at Haldir.

Orophin laughed and looked quickly at Haldir. He was smiling. It made him
glad to see him smile. He had not seen his brother smile quite like that in a
very long time. He looked back up at 

the handsome captain that stood before him, holding and playing with his
little brother. Rumil seemed to like him very much too. He did not know why,
but he did not want the captain to leave. He wanted the captain to stay with
them as long as possible. He turned to Haldir.

"Brother, can Siddhir come with us to the river? And after that, can he have
dinner with us too?"

Haldir looked at him. "I know not, Oro. Mayhap Siddhir has other plans for
the rest of the day. It would be rude of us to impose on *all* of his time.
Would you not agree?"

Orophin turned back to Siddhir. "Are we taking all of your time, Siddhir?"

Siddhir flashed a brilliant smile. "Not to worry, Orophin. I have plenty of
time. Would you like to go to the river now?"

Orophin smiled. "Yes, very much."

He looked at Haldir. "Then to the river we will go. I *always* have time for
those I care about."
NINE



"Captain Haldir, there is a party heading this way. Look, there- to the
east." Calaglin announced, pointing in the direction of the approaching
visitors.

Haldir raised an eyebrow as his eyes followed Calaglin's direction. "It looks
to be Lord Elrond. Has his coming been announced?"

"No, Captain."

Several low whistles sounded from the surrounding Mallorns around them.
Haldir responded in kind, and settled back on the branch upon which he was
perched. "It will be near an hour before they arrive. Please go and inform
the Lord and Lady that they are coming." 

"Yes, Captain," Calaglin replied, swiftly rising. He turned and quickly
descended the Mallorn, dropping to the ground without a sound.

"Calaglin?"

"Yes, Captain?" Calaglin responded, looking up.

"It will soon be time for a shift change. After informing our Lord and Lady,
you may retire."

"Are you certain, Captain?"

"Quite. All is well. Enjoy your extra time."

"Thank you, Captain."

Haldir nodded as the elf began to walk away, and then called out; "Calaglin?"

The elf turned to look back up at him. "Yes, Captain?"

"Call me Haldir."

Calaglin smiled, nodded and disappeared from sight.

********************

In another Mallorn, Tinion and Siddhir sat alert at their posts. Tinion
turned to Siddhir with a frown.

"I cannot quite make out who it is from this distance."


"Lord Elrond is amongst them. Who else travels with him, I know not." Siddhir
answered.

Tinion frowned again. "We were told not of Lord Elrond's coming."

Siddhir smiled. "Perhaps that is because he told no one. Then again, perhaps
Lady Galadriel already knows."

"Ah! How could I forget? By the Valar, there will be *three* with the gift
here now! We must all take care our thoughts."

Siddhir laughed. "You worry for naught, *mellon.*" [friend]

"If you say so."

Siddhir smiled. "When will we go to greet them?"

"When Haldir gives word," Tinion replied, matter of factly.

"Tinion, may I ask you something?"

Tinion turned to look in Siddhir's eyes. "Certainly."

"Is Haldir committed to anyone?"

"Why do you ask?" Tinion countered.

Siddhir smiled. "There is no need to feel defensive, *mellon*, for I
certainly mean him no harm.  I am just curious."

Tinion relaxed and chuckled. "Do you really mean to ask *that* question, or
do you mean to ask me if *I* have been with him?"

Siddhir grinned. "I have been found out, it seems. Both."

"Yes, I have been with him. As far as I know, no- he is not committed to
anyone." 

"Does that not bother you?"

"Nay. Why should it?"

"No reason, I suppose," Siddhir replied, quietly.

Tinion looked at him more closely. "You too have been with him."

"What makes you think that?"

Tinion laughed. "Because all that have want the same thing, *and* have the
same look upon their faces afterward. They want him for their own."

"And you find that amusing?" Siddhir asked.

"Nay, not amusing really. He is a superb lover and a good elf. I understand
why is sought after by so many."

"But not you?"

Tinion grinned. "'Tis not my nature to belong to only one. I like variety in
coupling."

Siddhir laughed then. "Is that so? Well, I thought you looked right
captivated by Galdor of the Grey Havens. The two of you were hardly apart
since he arrived."

Tinion winked. "Ah! So you have been watching after me, fair one? 'Tis true;
I find Galdor special, but he is in the Havens, and I am here. We have an
understanding betwixt us."

"And that is?" Siddhir coaxed.

"We will see whom we like while apart, but when he is here or I there-we will
be with one another only."

Siddhir raised an eyebrow. "Funny, it seems to me to be the very same thing."

Tinion turned to face him completely. "You tell me something now, *lirimaer;*
[lovely one] since you have been with Haldir, do you fancy any other?"

"Nay. ‘Tis him alone I want," Siddhir answered.

Tinion grinned. "Then it is *not* the same thing at all, for even though I
crave Galdor, I fancy *you* still. But at least I know now that I have no
chance. A great pity indeed, I might add."

Siddhir chuckled. "Tinion, you have a one track mind."

"That is what I have been trying to tell you, *nin bain.* [my beauty]

They were interrupted by a series of high-pitched whistles from the trees
beyond. Quickly they descended their post high in the huge Mallorn and went
to greet the incoming arrivals.

********************

"Haldir, how very good it is to see you again." Elrond greeted, once he and
his party had dismounted.


Haldir bowed his head. "Many thanks, my Lord. It is good to see you as well."

"You know Erestor and Glorfindel," Elrond announced. "Also Anarin and
Melpomaen as well?"

"I do." Haldir responded. "*Mae Govannen." *[well met]

All there responded in kind. Elrond turned then and nodded to Melpomaen, who
stepped forward.

 "I regret my disposition and treatment of you the last time we crossed
paths, Haldir. I was quite unfair to you when you were only trying to be
pleasant. Forgive me."

Haldir regarded him with unreadable eyes. "It is of no consequence. Worry
not."

Siddhir and Tinion joined them then. Elrond chuckled and smiled broadly when
he saw Siddhir, and stepped forward to embrace him. He released him and took
a step back.

"It has been long since I have seen you, Siddhir. *Lle maa quell. Vanimle
sila tiri."*[You look good. Your beauty shines bright]

Siddhir flashed a brilliant smile. "*Hannon lle.* [thank you] You flatter me,
cousin."

Elrond chuckled. "I speak naught but the truth, my kin. As you well know, I
am not one prone to flattery, although you *could* tighten up your braids
some. You are a warrior after all."

Siddhir laughed. "Now *that* is the Elrond I know." 

All there chuckled, including Elrond.

"My Lord, Tinion and Siddhir will escort you and your party through to Caras
Galadon." Haldir stated. He whistled then, and several other elves appeared
and led away the horses.

Elrond nodded. "Very well, but I would like to see you some time later,
Haldir."

"Yes, my Lord."

Elrond turned to Siddhir and placed an arm across his shoulders as they
slowly moved through the forest. "We must catch up. *Nae saian luume."* [it
has been too long]

"*Manka lle merna."* [If you wish] Siddhir replied, smiling brightly.

********************

An hour later, the replacements for the watch arrived, and Haldir descended
from his post high in the branches of the great Mallorn and casually made his
way home along a quiet path. When he 

entered, he immediately took off his weapons and relaxed upon his bed. He was
weary, but he 
did not intend to sleep. There were only a few finishing touches left to
Orophin's gift, and he 
would see them done this evening. He frowned when he felt something hard
underneath the sheets. He sat up and pulled the sheets aside to reveal
several nuts and broken pieces on Lembas stored there. Rumil, he thought. He
shook his head, smiling, and removed them.

He rose and went to a large, locked trunk in the room. He opened it and
retrieved the bow and took it back with him to the desk. He held it up and
examined it thoroughly, and then smiled. Siddhir was right. It *did* look
very good. Orophin will love it, he thought. He knew Orophin had long wanted
a bow of his own. He could see it in his eyes every time he took him along
for a match, and in the way he always wanted to polish his bow. It was about
time he had his own, and what better time to present it to him than his
upcoming begetting day. He smiled.

He went right to work and nearly an hour later the meticulously carved design
on the bow's frame was finished. He sighed heavily and held it out again,
painstakingly checking it from end to end, and all around. It was perfect.
Everything was almost done; the quiver and arrows were made long ago. Now it
was time to set forth stringing it. He sighed with relief when a knock came
upon his door. He rose, placed the bow back in the trunk and went to the door
and opened it. Elrond was grinning on the other side.

"My Lord?" Haldir asked, puzzled as he looked around for others who might be
with him.

Elrond smiled. "I am alone, Haldir. I was on my way to the guest talans and I
wanted to stop by and speak with you for a moment- if you do not mind. Lord
Celeborn informed me of where you stayed."

"Of course." Haldir replied, backing away from the door. Elrond stepped
inside, and stood waiting while Haldir closed the door and quickly offered
him a chair.

"Would you care to sit down?"

Elrond sat. "Thank you. I will only disturb you for a short time. How are
you, Haldir?"

"I am well, my Lord. Thank you for inquiring." Haldir answered, sitting near
him.

"I trust you are happy to be back home?"

Haldir smiled. "Although I like Rivendell immensely, I admit I missed Lorien.
It is my home, after all."

"So it is. How have you adapted to the changes?"

"Very well. The Lord and Lady are very kind."

"I am glad. Does most of Lorien feel the same?"

Haldir frowned. "I cannot truly speak for anyone save myself, but I think all
are content."

Elrond smiled. "It appears so. I hear you quite bested my cousin shooting not
so long ago."

Haldir grinned. "He challenged me. He should not have done that."

"Apparently." Elrond chuckled.

"Siddhir is quite a skilled archer at any rate. It was not all that easy to
beat him." Haldir remarked.

"I am sure it was not. I have seen him shoot. Even as a child, he was always
quite accurate."

Haldir nodded.

Elrond smiled. "Have you found your love yet?"

"Pardon, my Lord?"

"Your love, Haldir. He is here in Lorien. I have foreseen it." Elrond
replied, perplexed.

"You are mistaken, my Lord. I am not in love- nor do I wish to be. That ship
has long sailed."

Elrond frowned. "Haldir, to love someone is not an offence."

"I did not say that it was. I said only that I do not desire it."

"May I ask why?" Elrond queried.

Haldir sighed. "Love brings naught but pain, and if pain is to be bestowed
upon me, I wish for it to be only in battle."

Elrond looked at him for a long moment. "Haldir, do not close your heart. You
cannot deceive me. I know you have a lot of love to give. Happiness is yours
for the taking; you have only but to accept it."

Haldir looked at him. "*Coupling* makes me happy; *very* happy, in fact.
Would you care to?"

Elrond frowned. "Haldir, you *know* what I mean."

Haldir smirked. "Right. I have so much, but you *still* have no desire to be
with me again. That is promising."

Elrond's voice grew stern. "Hear me, Haldir. There are only *two* reasons
that I cannot be with you again, and the first is that I would not be able to
let you go. The second and most important 

reason is that I have foreseen your happiness with another, and I will not
stand in the way of that. I *care* for you Haldir, and I want to see you
*have* that happiness- even if it means that it is not with me. *Heniach
nin?"* [do you understand]

Haldir decided not to argue the point any further. Elrond could be quite
stubborn, *and* long-winded. "Yes, my Lord."

Elrond smiled, and rose. Haldir rose as well. "Good. Well, I will not keep
you any longer, as the hour grows late. *Quel du. Quel esta, mellonamin."*
[Good night. Rest well, my friend]

"*Quel du, Heruamin."* [Rest well, my Lord] Haldir replied, as he saw Elrond
out. He stood watching as Elrond strolled away and out of sight, his long
robes streaming out behind him. He sighed, and was about to turn away when a
slight movement at the corner of his eye caught his attention. "Who is
there?" he called out.

"Forgive me." Anarin answered, stepping out of the shadows and looking up at
him. "I did not mean to disturb you, nor did I mean to eavesdrop. When I saw
Lord Elrond, I figured it was best I stayed out of sight."

Haldir smiled down at him. "No matter. It is very good to see you again, fair
Anarin. Will you not come in? *Creoso a'braramin."* [welcome to my dwelling]
TEN


The next morning, Fereveldir strolled by the common and saw Siddhir sitting
alone having breakfast. He stopped and went to greet him. He strolled up
beside him, placed his bow on the table and took a seat.

"You are up early,*mellon.*" [friend]

Siddhir smiled. "As of late, ‘tis my habit."

Fereveldir chuckled. "No doubt due to the close confines you are sharing."

"Very likely indeed."

"I am sure you will not have to wait much longer. I have heard that several
new talans are in the finishing stages."

"That would be a blessing," Siddhir replied, taking a bite from a pear.

"Have you watch today?"

"Nay, not ‘til this eve," Siddhir replied.

Fereveldir grinned. "I was about to go and wake Haldir and get him to shoot a
few rounds with me. Care to join us?"

"I have not my bow. I would have to go back and retrieve it."

Fereveldir waved a hand, dismissing the idea. "No matter, you could use mine.
We are just shooting for sport. There will be no competition this time."

"Very well, I suppose I will join you then. One of us will have to look after
Rumil at any rate," Siddhir remarked, finishing off his pear.

Fereveldir popped a cherry in his mouth. "We will not have to look after
Rumil. He and Oro are with Orolonn and Aranel.  Haldir arranged it so that he
could finish Oro's gift. The Lord and Lady have guests, and he did not wish
to disturb them."

"Is that so?" Siddhir asked, surprised.

Fereveldir looked at him. "You seem perplexed."

"No matter." Siddhir answered, shaking his head. "Are you ready to depart?"

Fereveldir stood, retrieved his bow and several cherries. "Ready when you
are."

******************** 

Celeborn and Galadriel greeted a stern looking Elrond as he was escorted into
their receiving room by a tall, strongly built elf called Nilfalath. The elf
nodded and left, closing the doors behind him. Galadriel smiled to herself.
Having known Elrond for quite some time, she was well aware of his propensity
towards sleeping late into the afternoon. She motioned for him to join them
as they sat. Celeborn placed a platter containing hot tea and dates on the
table before them.

"Forgive us Elrond, for calling upon you so early in the day, but there has
been a development that we must discuss. It is of the utmost importance,"
Celeborn announced.

Elrond nodded, and poured himself a cup of tea. "Very well. I will hear of
the matter."

Celeborn nodded to Galadriel, who looked deep into Elrond's eyes. "We have
all been very preoccupied, and have had to deal with many difficult
transitions. That is true of you as well as us, but have you not wondered why
we have heard naught from our kin in Mirkwood?"

Elrond sighed heavily. "I *have* wondered. I have just not had the time to
pursue it further. The Great War, Amroth's disappearance, Gil-Galad,
Celebrian…"

Galadriel placed an understanding hand over his. "I know."

"I meant to send sentries long ago, but- "

"We have." Celeborn interjected.

Elrond raised an eyebrow. "What news?"

"'Tis not favourable news, I fear," Galadriel replied. "We sent riders to
Mirkwood to invite them here as we did you, but they were turned away without
an explanation. We were not to be outdone, so we sent another party right
behind them. This time we were lucky enough to have sent someone who was
friendly with one of the guards at the gate."

"Have we been enlightened as to what is amiss?" Elrond asked, sitting up
straight in his chair.

"Oropher too was lost in the great battle, for he did not survive his wounds
as previously thought. Thranduil, *son* of Oropher rules Mirkwood now." 

Elrond groaned and shook his head.

 "Thranduil's wife was a casualty as well. We know not how, or even if it was
as a result of the war, but it seems that when they became aware that they
would be overrun, they sent out riders to both Lorien and Imladris for aid,"
Galadriel explained.

Elrond's eyes widened. "I received no word of riders from Mirkwood requesting
aid."

"Nor did Lord Amroth," Celeborn interjected. "We have spoken in depth with
*all* of Lorien's soldiers. None mentioned riders or anything of the like. We
were quite thorough."

Galadriel sighed. "At any rate, Thranduil has condemned us for not answering
their call. He will have nothing to do with either Lorien *or* Imladris."

Elrond groaned. "It is likely their riders were taken down before they could
even reach us."

"I think it is *very* likely," Celeborn remarked, "yet he condemns us still."

Galadriel looked at Elrond. "This is something that we must work hard to
repair."

"I agree. Our realms should not be in discord," Elrond murmured.

Celeborn re-filled their cups. "Then I suggest we settle in, put our heads
together and figure out the best course of action."

********************

Fereveldir and Siddhir turned onto the road that would lead them to Haldir's
talan, and strolled happily along, engaged in light conversation.

"I am soon due for leave, and I am looking forward to it. It has been some
time, and I have to say that I have become weary enough to actually need the
rest," Fereveldir chuckled.

 "Where will you go? Imladris?" Siddhir asked.

"I have thought upon it, but no- I will visit the Grey Havens this year."

"I am told the Havens are quite lovely," Siddhir remarked.

"Seeing Galdor reminded me that I had yet another choice. I am quite excited
about it."

Siddhir grinned. "Well, I wish you a very pleasant trip. Be sure to bring-"

Fereveldir turned to look at Siddhir questionably. The elf had stopped in his
tracks and was staring straight ahead, with a look he could not quite discern
on his fair features. He turned to follow his gaze.

Haldir was leaving his talan with another elf, whom he assumed to be from
Rivendell due to his colouring. He was pleasant looking, though not very
tall, with long, straight hair as dark as a raven's feathers. They were
laughing. He turned to Siddhir, whom apparently had recovered from whatever
had plagued him, for he had resumed walking. He stepped quickly to catch up
with him.


"Is everything all right, *mellon?* [friend] Fereveldir queried.

 "Quite," Siddhir answered quickly.

Haldir's companion noticed them first, his dark eyes widening in surprise. 

"Siddhir? Is that you?" he asked.

Siddhir smiled. "How fare you, Anarin? It is good to see you again."

Anarin rushed forward and embraced him. *"Lle maa quell, mellonamin."*[you
look good, my friend]

"As do you," Siddhir replied, when Anarin released him. "This is Fereveldir.
I see you already know Haldir."

Anarin looked back at Haldir and smiled. "Yes, we met in Rivendell." He
turned back to Fereveldir then. "I am pleased to meet you, Fereveldir."

"As am I," Fereveldir responded.

Haldir watched the reunion quietly, but was not lost to the silent sparks
that shot at him through Siddhir's dark eyes when their eyes met.

"Anarin, we are meeting Haldir to get in some shooting practise. Perhaps you
would like to join us?"  Fereveldir questioned.

Before Anarin could respond, Siddhir interjected; 

"Fereveldir, you and Haldir go ahead. I would like to spend some time with
Anarin and catch up, for I have not seen him in centuries. I will shoot with
you another time."

 "Of course," Fereveldir agreed.

Siddhir turned to the elf. "Is that all right with you, Anarin?" 

Anarin smiled brightly. "Certainly."

"Good. We will depart then," Siddhir stated.

Anarin smiled and nodded to Fereveldir and Haldir. *"Quel re."* [good day]

They nodded in return. Haldir sighed inwardly. It was apparent that Siddhir
had no intention of speaking to him directly, and he had to admit to himself
that it bothered him.


"Have a good shoot," Siddhir called out over his shoulder as he and Anarin
walked away.

Fereveldir turned to his longtime friend. "Are you and Siddhir having a
disagreement?"

Haldir looked at him. "Why do you ask?"

"Because he said naught a word to you, and that is not like him. Besides, I
happen to know that he cares deeply for you."

Haldir smirked. "Mayhap he has realized his mistake. Come; let us go now."

********************

Siddhir smiled broadly when he and Anarin reached the common. Erestor,
Glorfindel and Melpomaen were seated there having a late breakfast. They
strolled over to join them.

"I am glad to be able to spend some time with my kin. How are you?" Siddhir
greeted.

All there received him with warm embraces, and then they sat down together.

Erestor beamed. "You are looking well, my friend."

"*Very* well, it seems," Melpomaen added, his eyes looking over Siddhir
thoroughly.

Siddhir looked at him and smiled, but said nothing.

"He does not look a day over five hundred for sure," Anarin chuckled.

"Perhaps you should share your secret with us now, as I am the eldest here.
It could come of great use to me in the near future," Glorfindel joked.

Siddhir waved his hand, laughing. "Go on. All of you flatter me far too much.
I see a great deal of beauty sitting at this table as well." 

Erestor looked at him. "Will you not *ever* return to Rivendell? Even on
leave?"

Siddhir's smile faded. "I am sorry, Erestor. I cannot."

"Surely time has helped with your healing," Erestor remarked, placing a
comforting hand over Siddhir's.

"It has somewhat, but to be there again…I simply cannot. It would be too
much. It would shatter the strength that has taken all of this time to build
up within me," Siddhir explained.



"We understand," Glorfindel offered.

Siddhir smiled. "Thank you. I am truly overjoyed you came so that I could see
all of you again. You must visit more often."

"We will, *mellonamin*,"[my friend] Anarin replied. "Lorien apparently has
done quite well by you- if your appearance is any indication."

Siddhir smiled, but ignored the compliment. "Where is my cousin?" 

"Lord Elrond was summoned early this morn by Lorien's Lord and Lady. We know
not why," Erestor answered.

Glorfindel grinned. "Why do you not read him and tell us the news?"

Siddhir laughed. "And have his fury set forth upon me? I think not. I am
still waiting for him to chastise me about my braids even after all of this
time."

Everyone burst out in joyful laughter. All well knew Siddhir's severe dislike
for conventionality, and remembered Lord Elrond issuing him a daily tongue
lashing about his misshapen braids. Siddhir never changed, and Elrond never
won. Apparently no one ever had.

"Some things never change, eh Siddhir?" Anarin chuckled.

Siddhir winked, and flashed a brilliant smile. "And they never will."
ELEVEN


Dusk settled over Lorien as Haldir and Fereveldir gathered their arrows.
Everyone else who had been there left long ago, and they were alone.
Fereveldir cast a thoughtful sideways glance at his longtime friend as they
made their way back from the practice fields.

"You were kind with me today, I could tell," Fereveldir remarked.

Haldir looked at him. "What do you mean? We were not competing."

Fereveldir sighed. "I know. I said that to get a rise out of you, and I have
failed miserably."

"Oh."

"Haldir, may I ask you something?"

"Ask."

"You were very short when I asked you about Siddhir. What did you mean when
you spoke of him realizing his mistake? What mistake? What happened?"
Fereveldir inquired.

Haldir looked at him, but said nothing.

Fereveldir frowned. "Since when do you not confide in me, Haldir? Are we not
still friends?"

"Of course we are," Haldir sighed.

Fereveldir stopped walking. "Wait…I told you that I knew Siddhir cared for
you. That is when you mentioned the mistake. Hal, have you been with
Siddhir?"

Haldir smirked. "I thought you did not like to hear the details of such
things."

Fereveldir's eyes widened. "Elbereth! You have been with him!

Haldir raised an eyebrow. "And why is that so surprising?"

"Now I am *certain* he cares for you-  much more than I realized, even.
Elbereth! Now it all makes sense!"

Haldir frowned. "What say you, Fereveldir?"

"The look on his face when we came upon you with Anarin!" 

Haldir just looked at him.


"Hal, why were you with Anarin so soon after being with Siddhir? I thought
you were getting on so well. What happened between you?" Fereveldir
questioned.

"*Nothing* happened. You know how I feel about love, Fereveldir. We have
discussed it, and I tried to tell him my feelings about it as well. Of course
he did not want to hear it at the time, because he wanted to be with me as
much as I wanted to be with him- but it changes nothing still."

Fereveldir exhaled slowly. "Hal, Siddhir is a good elf. You could really be
happy with him. Why do you insist on pushing love away now when you used to
seek it at every turn before? *Please* tell me that it is not because of what
happened in Rivendell. I know you are stronger than that."

"That is correct, *mellon.* [friend]  I am," Haldir answered, and started
walking again. 

Fereveldir quickened his pace to catch up with him. "Siddhir is *not* like
Tinion, or some of the others you have been with, Haldir. He does not lie
with others for sheer pleasure alone."

Haldir stopped abruptly and turned to him. "And you would know this *how*?"

"Because I know *him* just as I know *you.* Like you, he is beautiful,
seductive, and he flirts a lot- but with *him*, that is all it is. Siddhir
had only *one* lover since becoming of age up until that lover died in
battle. If he gave himself to you, it is because he has opened his heart
again," Fereveldir explained. 

Haldir blinked. "Who was his lover?" 

"Gil- Galad."

Surprise spread slowly across Haldir's features. "Surely you jest."

"I speak naught but the truth. It is the reason he settled in Lothlorien and
never returned to Rivendell."

Haldir groaned and started walking again. "I do not want to love him,
Fereveldir."

"But you do," Fereveldir prompted.

Haldir sighed. "I have to pick up Ru and Oro now."

"I will accompany you. I would like to say hello to Orolonn and Aranel,"
Ferevedir replied.

Neither of them noticed the horrified look on Anarin's face as he watched
them retreat from his cover behind the large trunk of a nearby Mallorn.

********************

Anarin strolled back to the table to find Siddhir sitting only with
Melpomaen. They smiled when he re-joined them.

"You were away much longer than we thought you would be," Melpomaen
commented.

"I- I got lost," Anarin stammered.

Siddhir looked at him, but said nothing. Anarin was not telling the truth. It
was obvious to him that something had upset him. Knowing how quiet Anarin was
by nature, he decided to ask him about it when they were alone.

"Erestor and Glorfindel have retired for the evening. It looks like Lord
Elrond will not join us after all. He must have very important business with
Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel, or he would have been here by now." He
stretched. "Well, the day has been long for me as well. I think I too will
retire," Melpomaen remarked, standing.

"*Quel du,*" [good night] Siddhir remarked.

"*Quel kaima,*" [sleep well] Anarin added.

Melpomaen nodded and left them alone at the table. Siddhir looked at him
thoughtfully.

"What troubles you, *mellonamin?*[my friend] You seem quite shaken."

Anarin looked into Siddhir's dark eyes. "I heard something whilst I was away.
I need you to tell me if it is true."

Siddhir smiled. "That depends on what you have heard. "

"I am serious, Siddhir," Anarin replied.

Anarin's expression made the smile leave Siddhir's face. "What is amiss?"

"I- I overheard Fereveldir and Haldir talking."

Siddhir grinned. "So? They are very close friends, Anarin."

"Siddhir, have you…have you been with Haldir?" Anarin asked.

Siddhir blinked, but did not respond. Instead, he turned his ebony eyes
skyward. The vivid streaks of yellow and orange he was admiring a few minutes
before were rapidly becoming a blur as they blended into the vastness of the
darkening sky.

"Elbereth! It is true!" Anarin swore through his teeth.


Siddhir returned his attention to him. "Worry not, *mellon.* It is over." 

"But you care for him! You have to! I know you would not have been with him
if that were not true!" Anarin exclaimed.

Siddhir brushed several stray strands of honey blond hair away from his face.
"Well, it seems he does not care for me in quite the same manner. However, it
matters not. Do not upset yourself so."

"I swear to you on my life that I never would have been with him had I known.
Please believe me."

 Siddhir smiled, and placed a reassuring hand over his. "I do, and I hold no
ill will for you, *mellon*. [friend] I thank you for your respect, but Haldir
is free to be with whomever he wishes. I hold no claim to him."

"But- "

Siddhir squeezed his hand. "No buts. You too are worthy of love, Anarin. I do
not expect you to forsake the possibility just because of feelings I may have
had. I will be fine, I assure you. Worry not."

He stood then, leaving Anarin staring up at him open mouthed.

Siddhir smiled. "I would love to stay and chat with you, but I have watch
this eve and I have to be on my way."

Anarin stood and Siddhir embraced him.

"If I should not return before you depart, have a safe journey and please
return to visit me again, all right?"

"Yes, of course," Anarin replied.

Siddhir gave him a gentle pat on the shoulder. "*Quel kaima."* [Sleep well]

"*Hannon lle,"*[thank you] Anarin answered.

Siddhir smiled, and gave him a nod before disappearing into the forest.

********************
"Was Rumil much trouble?" Haldir asked, as he lifted the toddler into his
arms.

Aranel smiled. "He was an absolute angel."


Haldir raised an eyebrow as he cast his gaze upon a grinning Rumil. "Is that
so? ‘Tis been a very long while since he has been an angel with me."

Rumil giggled then as if he understood what his brother had said. Aranel
smiled.

"'Tis naught but the truth. Is that not so, Orophin?" Aranel asked.

"He was very well behaved, brother," Orophin admitted.

Aranel stroked Orophin's white-blond hair. "And this one was a great help as
always."

 "I can always count on him to be so." Haldir replied, smiling. "Fereveldir,
we will be leaving now. Orolonn; Aranel, *Hannon lle- Quel du."*[thank you-
good night]

"*Quel du, mellon.* I will visit just a while longer," Fereveldir answered.

Haldir nodded. "Very well."

He took Orophin's hand and strolled away. Behind him, Fereveldir called out;

"I intend to finish our earlier discussion, *mellon,* lest you forget."

Haldir raised his and Orophin's hand in response, and they continued walking.

********************

"I would have to agree, my Lady. ‘Tis a long journey to Mirkwood, and at any
rate- Lorien needs you here. Celeborn and I will go," Elrond stated.

"If you think it is best." Galadriel replied.

Celeborn lifted her chin with his finger. "I would die if anything were to
happen to you under *any* circumstances, *melamin*- [my love] but to be out
in the wilderness and have something happen would be more than I could bear.
The road to Mirkwood is not as safe or as pleasant as the road to Rivendell."

Galadriel smiled. "Very well, *A'maelamin."* [my beloved]

Elrond sighed and stood. "It is settled. Will depart at first light?"

"No," Celeborn replied, shaking his head. "I think near after breakfast will
be soon enough. The hour has grown late now, and we need to be well rested
before departing."

"Very good," Elrond answered. "I will take my leave then. *Quel esta,
melloneamin."* [rest well, my friends]

********************

Orophin slipped under the crisp white sheets in the large bed and waited
while Haldir changed a fidgety Rumil into his night clothes. Just as he
finished, Rumil grabbed a fistful of Haldir's hair and tugged hard-
soliciting a surprised yelp from Haldir. The elfling quickly released his
grip and burst into a fit of giggles.

Haldir lifted him high in the air and shook him slightly, which made Rumil
laugh all the more. His laughter was infectious and soon both Haldir and
Orophin were laughing as well. 

"I knew you could not be an angel for an entire day, *pen-pigen."* [tiny one]
Haldir chuckled.

He placed Rumil in the bed beside Orophin, and then climbed in himself. He
sighed heavily. He was weary, and he prayed silently that Rumil would not
keep him up all night, as was sometimes his habit. He leaned over to kiss
both Orophin and Rumil, then turned on his side so that he could watch them.

Thankfully, he did not have to watch them long.
TWELVE

 
The smell of food permeated his nostrils and Orophin opened his eyes. He
looked to see Rumil still sleeping beside him, but Haldir was gone. He rubbed
his eyes to focus better and looked around their talan. Haldir was nowhere to
be seen.

He crawled out of bed, covered Rumil with the sheet and walked into the outer
room. The table was filled with food! He grinned, hurried over to it and sat
down. Looking around quickly he selected a piece of pheasant and started to
eat, chewing fast so that his brother would not know he started without him.
Just as he swallowed the last bit, Haldir entered the talan.

"Up early today I see," Haldir remarked.

"Yes, brother," Orophin replied, innocently.

Haldir walked into the other room and checked on Rumil, who was still asleep.
He turned then and strolled back to the table. "Is the pheasant to your
liking, *pen-neth?"* [young one]

Orophin looked up at him with wide eyes, but said nothing.

Haldir laughed. "Worry not, Oro. If I were in your place and had risen first,
I would have a sample as well."

Orophin smiled. "It is very good, brother. Your cooking is always very good."

"*Hannon lle," *[thank you] Haldir replied, taking a seat beside him.

"Do you know what today is, brother?" Orophin asked.

Haldir smiled. "But of course. It is your begetting day. Have you not noticed
that I have seen to it that all of your favourites are on the table this
morn?"

Orophin looked over the food on the table and grinned. "Yes! I am going to be
so very full this day! Everything smells so good!"

Haldir laughed. "Are you not going to share it with us?"

"Oh- yes, brother. I could not eat all of *this* by myself."

"I am glad to hear that, for I too am hungry this morn," Haldir replied.

"Should we not wake up Ru?" Orophin asked.

Haldir smiled at him. "No, we will let him rest. There is something I have to
give you first before we eat."

Orophin grinned from ear to ear. "A present?"

Haldir chuckled. "Yes, *pen-neth,* [young one] a present."

Orophin sat up straight in anticipation. "What is it, brother?"

"What fun would it be if I just *told* you? You have to *see* it."

Orophin laughed and clapped his hands. "Where brother? Where is it?"

Haldir chuckled and went into the other room again. When he returned, Orophin
was smiling broadly, straining his neck to see what he hid behind his back.

 "Happy begetting day, Oro," Haldir said, as he brought the bow out for
Orophin to see.

Orophin squealed and jumped up from his chair. "Brother! It is mine?"

Haldir smiled broadly, and handed the bow to him. "Yes Oro, it is yours. Do
you like it?"

"I love it! Thank you, brother!" Orophin exclaimed, examining the bow
further.

"You are most welcome. Wait," Haldir replied, turning to go into the other
room again. When he returned, he carried the quiver and arrows. Orophin
grinned when Haldir passed them to him.

"Can we shoot together brother?"

"Of course. Mayhap a little later, though. Right now we should eat, all
right?" Haldir answered.

Orophin placed his bow, quiver and arrows carefully on the desk and returned
to the table. Before sitting, he gave Haldir a tight hug. 

"Thank you, brother. I love everything you have done for me."

Haldir smiled and ruffled his brother's white-blond hair. "I am glad, *pen-
neth.*" [young one]

They sat down to eat. Before long, Rumil began to stir, whimpering softly.
Haldir rose and went into the other room to see his youngest brother sitting
up in bed, rubbing his eyes and pouting.

"*Mani marte, pen-pigen*? [what happened, tiny one] Did you think we had left
you all alone?" Haldir cooed. 

Rumil held out his small arms and Haldir lifted him from the bed.

"It is all right, *pen-tithen.* [little one] We would never do that. *Uuma
dela."* [don't worry]


Rumil wrapped his arms around Haldir's neck as he strolled back to join
Orophin. Haldir sat and placed Rumil beside him.

"Are you hungry, Ru?"

Rumil nodded.

Haldir carefully broke off several small pieces of pheasant, put them on a
plate and placed it in front of the toddler. Rumil quickly grabbed a piece
and chewed it hurriedly. Haldir then placed several berries on the plate
also.

"He seems very hungry, brother," Orophin remarked. 

Haldir laughed. "That he does, Oro. He's growing bigger every day, it seems."

They continued to eat, chuckling as they watched Rumil. The elfling was
humming, as he always did when he enjoyed his food. He was also especially
fond of berries, and the more he ate- the messier he became.

Haldir chuckled. "Look at you, *pen-tithen.* [little one] You are quite the
mess."

Rumil giggled and took more berries from the platter before him.

"Everything is so good brother," Orophin commented.

Haldir smiled. "Thank you, Oro."

There came a knock upon the door then, and Haldir frowned. "Who can that be
at this hour?"

 "I will see who it is." Orophin replied, quickly rising from the table. He
opened the door, and a smiling Siddhir stood on the other side.

"Happy begetting day, Oro," Siddhir greeted.

Orophin smiled broadly. "You did not forget."

"I have long memory," Siddhir answered with a grin.

"Thank you. Please come inside. Hal has made a special breakfast this morn of
all my favourite things."

Siddhir looked down at him. "Thank you, but I would not want to impose.
Besides, I just came off watch and I am quite weary. I just wanted to come by
to give you your gifts."



"Oh please, Siddhir. There is plenty and you should eat. My brother is an
excellent cook, and you will enjoy it. Rumil is funny, too."

Suddenly Haldir appeared in the doorway behind Orophin. "You would not be
imposing, Siddhir. Please come in and join us."

Siddhir looked into Haldir's eyes, and then down to Orophin's and smiled.

"Very well. I will join you for a time."

Haldir stepped back from the door, turned and strolled back to his place
beside Rumil, who was covered in berry juice, but still humming. Siddhir
followed and sat with Orophin, grinning broadly when he saw Rumil.

"He enjoys berries, I see," Siddhir commented.

"Very much," Haldir replied.

Siddhir turned to Orophin and pulled two small flat, narrow boxes from within
his tunic and handed them to him. "Happy begetting day, Orophin."

"Thank you," Orophin replied with a smile. He turned then to Haldir.
"Presents, brother."

Haldir laughed. "Indeed. Well, open them."

Orophin opened the first box and smiled. "I love this game."

"I am glad," Siddhir replied.

Orophin placed the game carefully aside and opened the remaining box. He
inhaled sharply when he saw its contents.

Haldir smiled. "Well, what is it?"

Orophin held out the box so that Haldir could see the exquisite set of
daggers inside.

Haldir looked in Siddhir's dark eyes. "They are wonderful."

Siddhir smiled at him, and then returned his attention to Orophin.

"Are they to your liking, *pen-neth?* [young one]

"Yes!" Orophin exclaimed. "Many thanks, Siddhir. Now I have everything I need
to become a great warrior like my brother and you."


Rumil reached out a sticky hand and Orophin quickly pulled his presents away.

"No, Ru. You are a mess. Besides, you are too young to touch these." He rose
and took his gifts over to the desk and placed them beside his bow.

Rumil frowned, and started to pout.

"Fret not, little one. I have brought you something as well," Siddhir
chuckled, as he reached into his tunic pocket and pulled out a brightly
coloured ball. He handed it to the elfling.

Rumil grinned and took it, rolling it on the table with joy. Haldir smiled.

"You have thought of everything, it seems."

" I try." Siddhir replied.

"Please eat something now. There is plenty," Haldir coaxed.

"*Hannon lle.*" [thank you] Siddhir answered, placing several items on his
plate.

"I want to try out my new bow. Will you shoot with us later, Siddhir?"
Orophin asked.

"I am afraid I cannot say now, Oro. I have to report to our Lord and Lady
soon, and I know not what my orders will be."

"If you have no orders, will you come?"

Siddhir gazed briefly at Haldir, and then returned his attention to Orophin.
"Yes, I will come."

Orophin smiled.

"Oro, can you keep an eye on Ru for a short while? I would like to speak to
Siddhir." Haldir asked.

"Yes, brother," Orophin answered.

Haldir looked at Siddhir. "May I have a word?"

"Certainly," Siddhir replied, rising.

Haldir stepped out onto the talan landing. Siddhir followed, and closed the
door behind them.

"Is something amiss?" Siddhir asked.



"Nay. I want to thank you for remembering Oro and Rumil today, despite being
angry with me. You are most kind, and I want you to know that I do appreciate
that," Haldir replied.

Siddhir looked at him. "I like your brothers very much, Haldir. There is no
need to thank me for doing something that I enjoy. Besides, I am not angry
with you."

Haldir smirked. "Is that so? You could have fooled me. The last time our eyes
met, mine felt like daggers were piercing them, and you have not uttered a
word to me since you saw me with Anarin."

"I have not had cause to do so." 

Haldir sighed. "Siddhir, I tried to tell you that…"

Siddhir held up his hand. "There is no need to explain yourself, Haldir. You
owe me nothing. You can lie with whomever you please, for it is not my
concern. Besides, the fault was my own for not informing you of how I felt
beforehand. I care for you deeply, but I do not share lovers, Haldir.
Apparently you do not feel the same about that, and you are entitled. It had
been awhile for me, and I cannot say that I did not enjoy our encounter- but
I have regained my senses. We need not speak of it any further. Anarin is a
fine elf. I wish you every happiness."

"I am not involved with Anarin, Siddhir."

"Hmm, interesting. Does *he* know that I wonder? Forget it. I do not wish to
continue this conversation anyway."

 Haldir stepped quickly forward and grasped Siddhir by the shoulders. "I did
not mean to hurt you. I care for you as well."

Siddhir looked at Haldir's hands grasping him, and then into the slightly
taller elf's grey eyes- his own dark eyes blazing with resentment.

"Unhand me, Haldir. Do it now." Siddhir growled.

Haldir blinked, surprised. He released him.

"We will go back inside now. I will finish the breakfast you so graciously
offered, after which I will say farewell to Orophin and Rumil- then I will be
leaving."

Haldir sighed. "You loathe me now, I suppose."

Siddhir smiled sinisterly. "I loathe no one, Haldir- not even you. Come; let
us go in."
THIRTEEN


"Orophin is right, Haldir. You are an excellent cook. I am quickly learning
how vast your talents are, *mellon,"*[friend]  Siddhir remarked, wiping his
mouth.

"I am glad you enjoyed it," Haldir answered, eyeing him warily.
"Enjoy it I did, but I must be leaving now I am afraid. Orophin, I hope the
balance of your begetting day is happy."

"Thank you, Siddhir. Remember, if you can, you will come back and shoot with
us," Orophin reminded him.

Siddhir ruffled his hair and stood. "I will remember."

Haldir stood, cradling a now sleeping Rumil in his arms. "I am glad you
came."

Siddhir smiled, gently brushing his hand over Rumil's tousled blond hair.
Then he looked into Haldir's curious eyes. "As am I."

He turned then and left, closing the talan door softly behind him.

********************

Siddhir had almost reached Celeborn and Galadriel's talan when Fereveldir
rushed up to him. Siddhir chuckled, amused to see his friend in such a state.

"What is your urgency, *mellon?* [friend] You move as if the Nine were on
your heels."

"I was looking for you," Fereveldir answered, out of breath.

Siddhir laughed hard. "By the Valar, I did not think I was that hard to find.
What is amiss?"

"Nothing. It is something good, actually. I just wanted to be able to tell
you before you left."

"Before I left? I have not long *returned* from watch."

"I think our Lord will call upon you to accompany him and Lord Elrond on
their journey to Mirkwood. They wait for your return and are nearly ready to
depart," Fereveldir stated.

"Is that so? Then I must hasten my steps. What is the good news you had for
me?" Siddhir asked, as they started walking.

"Oh! I almost forgot. Your talan is ready. You will share it only with
Elviondel." Fereveldir remarked.

Siddhir smiled. "That *is* good news, but alas, I will not be able to enjoy
it right away it seems. It is something to look forward to though. Thank you
for informing me."

"You are most welcome. Tell me, have you seen Haldir this morn?"

"I had breakfast with him not long ago."

"Ah!" Fereveldir replied with a smile. "So you are getting on again?"

Siddhir grinned. "It is not what you think, *mellon.* [friend] Today is
Orophin's begetting day, and I stopped by there to give him a present. They
were having breakfast and asked me to join them."

Fereveldir gently slapped his own head. "That is right! I will have to return
to my talan and retrieve my gift for him. However, I have not forgotten about
my inquiry, evasive one."

Siddhir laughed again. "We got along fine."

"You know what I mean, Siddhir. Are you two speaking again?"

"We spoke."

Fereveldir stared at him. "You are not going to tell me, are you?"

Siddhir grinned. "Tell you what, inquisitive one? There is nothing to tell."

"I know you care for him still, Siddhir. Your evasiveness and even your anger
cannot shield that."

Siddhir was quiet for a moment. "I see not the point, my friend. He clearly
has designs on another. I told him I wished him well."

Fereveldir sighed. "You are wrong, *mellon.* [friend]

"I think not, but it is quite all right. We all have to pursue that which
makes us happy. I cannot fault him nor anyone of their right to do so. I can
only stand by my own standard of happiness."

"Siddhir, you do not understand- Hal-"

"We will have to continue this discussion another time." Siddhir interjected,
tapping Fereveldir on the shoulder and bowing as Celeborn strolled up to
them.

********************

"It is more like this, *pen-neth,"* [young one] Haldir coaxed as he
demonstrated the proper way to hold a dagger.

Orophin did the same with the dagger he held. "Like this, brother?"

Haldir smiled. "Yes, that is correct. You learn fast. I am certain you will
be of the Galadhrim in no time."

"You really think so, brother?" Orophin asked.

"Absolutely. Now remember, daggers are for jabbing in most cases, and used
only with close contact, unless of course you have no other weapon. They can
also be thrown. I will show you how to do that later."

"How will we be able to practise with Rumil?" Orophin inquired.

"Hmm, I will have to take him to Lady Galadriel. We cannot practise on the
open field and take our eyes away from him even for a moment. He is too quick
to find trouble."

Orophin giggled.

"We will let him finish his nap, then we will go and bathe for he is
incredibly sticky. After that, we will take him to our Lady," Haldir
announced.

"That sounds good, brother."

Haldir smiled. "Good. Now, I think I would like a little something more to
eat. Will you join me?"

"Yes, brother, " Orophin replied, smiling from ear to ear.

********************

"Are you certain you are up for this? We could call upon Nilfalath in your
stead," Celeborn suggested.

"Nay, I am quite up to the task. Worry not, my Lord," Siddhir replied.

"Very well, then. We will be departing forthwith."

Siddhir bowed. "As you wish, my Lord."

Celeborn turned and strolled over to Elrond and Glorfindel. Fereveldir placed
a hand on Siddhir's shoulder.

"May the Valar be with you, *mellonamin."* [my friend]


Siddhir repeated the gesture. "*Hannon lle.* [thank you] May their light
shine bright upon you as well."

Fereveldir smiled. "I will look after Haldir for you."

Siddhir blinked, and then grinned. "You do not deter easily, do you?"

"Not the last time I checked," Fereveldir replied, laughing. "Safe journey. I
will go now to my talan and get Orophin's gift."

Siddhir smiled. "*Namarie,"* [farewell] 

"*Namarie, mellon,"* Fereveldir answered, and then strolled off the way they
had come.

Siddhir watched his friend go for a moment with a fond grin, and then he
turned and joined those waiting to depart.

********************

Fereveldir found them sometime later on the practice fields. He chuckled
softly when he saw Orophin sitting on top of Haldir, who was sprawled out on
the grass. In his hand he held high a shiny dagger, apparently having bested
his older brother.

"Haldir! You will have to fight better than that, or Orophin will take your
place in the guard." Fereveldir called out as he neared them.

Orophin turned to him with a bright smile shining on his young and already
fair face. "Fereveldir! I knew you would come!"

"Of course I would not forget your begetting day. Do you think me a fool?"
Fereveldir chuckled.

"Never," Orophin replied, removing himself from his brother's chest.

Haldir rose and smiled. "I was wondering where you were. It is not like you
to be tardy."

"I had to inform Siddhir that he finally has been given a talan, and in the
interim, I learned that he will be accompanying our Lord, Lord Elrond and
Glorfindel on a journey to Mirkwood. I was saying farewell."

Haldir's eyes widened. "Our Lord called upon Siddhir and not me?"

Fereveldir smiled. "Do not fret, Haldir. Our Lord and Lady knew how important
Orophin's begetting day was to you. That is why they chose Siddhir instead."

"I see."

"Orophin, this is for you," Fereveldir passed him a long and narrow package.

"Thank you, Fereveldir!" Orophin exclaimed, excitedly. "Is it what I think it
is?"

Fereveldir chuckled. "I know not what you think it is,  *pen-neth.*" [young
one]

"A sword!"  Orophin exclaimed, as he hurriedly tore away the wrapping.

"Careful, Oro. You would not want to cut yourself," Haldir warned.

Orophin pulled out a shiny new sword. It gleamed in the afternoon sun. He
held it up, admiring it. "It is beautiful. Thank you, Fereveldir."

"You are very welcome, Oro."

"Can we practice with sword and bow now, brother?"

Haldir smiled. "I knew you were going to ask that. Certainly we can."

"Can you stay with us, Fereveldir? Siddhir cannot come now because he had to
go away," Orophin remarked.

"Well, I am not as good as Siddhir with a sword, dagger or bow- but I can
certainly stay."

"This is the best begetting day ever!" Orophin exclaimed.

Fereveldir smiled as he caught his friend's gaze. Haldir smiled also, but
something else flickered in his eyes. Something he could not quite discern.

********************

The day had been long. Dusk settled over Lothlorien as Haldir and Fereveldir
made their way home with Orophin and Rumil. Rumil giggled as he grabbed a
fistful of the tall and lean elf's hair along the way. Fereveldir grimaced.

"I see that he has not gotten over his fixation with hair yet."

Haldir grinned. "Not quite."

"He did not pull Siddhir's hair, nor the Lady Galadriel's," Orophin noted.

"Is that so?" Fereveldir asked.

"It is so. I have yet to work out why," Haldir replied.

"It is because they can See, I think." Orophin suggested.

Fereveldir managed to disengage a chortling Rumil's hand from his hair as
they neared the talan ladder. "That is an interesting theory, *pen-tithen.*
[little one] Perhaps we should try it out on Lord Elrond one day."

"Oh, I think not," Haldir quipped. They all laughed.

"As we have arrived, it is time now for you to take this mischievous hair-
pulling elfling off my hands," Fereveldir chuckled, as he passed a squirming
Rumil to Haldir.

"Fret not, *mellon.* [friend] He will pull my hair too before the night is
done." Haldir remarked. "Will you join us for a time?"

"I wish I could, because the lingering smells around your talan tell me you
have been cooking today- but I have watch this eve," Fereveldir chuckled.

 Haldir smiled. "Well, there is plenty. If you care not to take something
with you now, perhaps you will come by in the morn."

"You may expect me in the morn for certain my friend, for I intend to finish
our last conversation."

Haldir grinned and shook his head. "I do not have to have the gift to know
*that,* persistent one. *Namarie."* [farewell]

 Fereveldir chuckled, and hugged both Orophin and Rumil before sauntering off
down the narrow road, humming a cheerful tune.
FOURTEEN


Haldir floated for a while after bathing in the river. He sighed heavily as
the warm waters flowed over his body and he released his mind of all
thoughts. It was early, and he was alone. When he could, he always chose this
time to bathe in the peaceful quiet of the river. It would be a couple of
hours before his brothers woke, and most in Lorien awoke with the calling of
the birds.

Unbidden, Siddhir crossed his mind. He could clearly see his fair face. He
sighed. As much as he tried to fight it and not lend credence to his
feelings, he knew he cared for him- and the only reason he was trying to deny
him was because of his fear of being hurt. He knew now that he could bed the
whole of Lorien *and* Imladris for that matter and it would change nothing.
The dark eyed elf had won his heart. And now he was gone, and he had not the
chance to tell him so.
He sighed again and swam towards the shore, dried off, and was pulling on his
leggings when he sensed a presence.

"Who is there?" he called out. "Show yourself!"

"Forgive me," Anarin said softly as he appeared from behind a Mallorn. "I
wanted to speak with you, but I was waiting until you finished bathing. I am
sorry to intrude."

Haldir smiled. "No matter. I want to speak with you as well."

 Anarin moved closer. "I need to tell you something, Haldir."

Haldir pulled on his tunic and looked at him. "I am listening."

"Although I found our encounter to be immensely pleasurable, I am sorry to
say that I cannot in all good conscience allow it to happen again. Not
because I did not find it incredible, but because I know that you hold
Siddhir's heart. I love Siddhir. We have long been friends, and I cannot do
anything that would ultimately hurt him. If I had known this soo
would have happened at all."

Haldir blinked. "He *told* you that I hold his heart?"

"Not in so many words, but hear me; I *know* him. He does not couple for
pleasure alone, as even I have been known to do from time to time. With him,
the giving of his body goes far deeper than that. He does not have to say
this for me to know that it is so. Besides, I saw it in his eyes when I asked
him directly. Please do not take this as a rejection, for if this fact were
not so- I would be glad to continue in your company."

Haldir chuckled. "There was a time when I would have felt just that, *mellon.
* [friend] But in this case, I have come to realize that I too have feelings
for him, and that I was only trying to dispel them. It has not worked, so I
will do it no longer."

Anarin smiled. "I am very glad to hear that.  We can continue as friends
then?"

Haldir smiled, and put an arm about his shoulders. "Of course. I am honoured
to call you friend."

As they walked off, neither saw Melpomaen as he lingered behind another
Mallorn, watching.

********************

Their long journey was untroubled. Finally, they arrived at the gates of the
Mirkwood castle of King Thranduil.  The blaring sound of horns rang out, and
several guards clamoured towards the gates. Following them, a lone blond elf
in robes of sea green drew closer. Glorfindel and Siddhir rode ahead of
Celeborn and Elrond to greet them. They dismounted and strolled up to the
gates.

"*Mae Govennen,* [well met] sentinels. We are here to see King Thranduil.
Please inform him that we lead both Lord Elrond of Imladris and Lord Celeborn
of Lothlorien to his house," Glorfindel greeted.

The guards turned to look at the elf slowly making his way through to the
front. The elf bowed.

"*Mae Govannen.* I am Saelbeth. King Thranduil is expecting you. Please
follow me. The guards will tend to your horses."

Siddhir signalled to Elrond and Celeborn, and they rode up to join them. They
dismounted and all followed Saelbeth inside the walls of the castle.

Once inside, Saelbeth led them to a set of large oak doors and opened them.
It was a library, and the room was massive and brightly lit. The walls were
lined with rows upon rows of books, most of which were leather-bound and
neatly placed. Elrond could tell that most of the volumes were very old for
the slightly musty scent in the air. In the centre of the room sat a large
mahogany desk and an equally large chair behind it. On the desk lay several
scrolls and an open book.

Elrond assumed the King had been reading when they arrived. He smiled
inwardly as he remembered his friend Oropher, Thranduil's father. There was
never a day when Oropher wasn't reading some book or the other, and it seemed
he may have passed that trait on to his son. 

Behind the desk were several large windows. He ventured over to them and
looked out. It was possible to see for miles in every direction, and there
was also an excellent view of the courtyard and practice fields below. He
imagined the King took great pleasure in being able to survey so much from
this vantage point.

"Please sit and be comfortable. King Thranduil will be by shortly." Saelbeth
informed them. "Would you care for something to eat or drink? I could have
something sent in."

"No, not as yet, thank you," Elrond answered, after taking a quick survey of
his company.

Saelbeth nodded. "Very well. I will leave you now. King Thranduil will be
here soon."

"*Hannon lle,"*[thank you]  Celeborn replied.

Saelbeth turned to Siddhir and Glorfindel. "Sentinels, perhaps you would like
to accompany me to the dining hall. Our Lords have much to discuss."

Siddhir looked at Glorfindel, who nodded. "We would."

Saelbeth led them back through the large doors, nodding to both Lords before
closing it gently behind him.


********************

Erestor smiled when Anarin entered the common and made his way over to where
he was seated.

"It is a glorious day, is it not, my friend?" Anarin greeted him, sitting
beside him.

"That it is. You are quite cheerful this morn," Erestor replied.

"I am. I was worried about something I had to do, but I have done it, and it
has turned out better than I expected."

Erestor grinned. "Hmm, I trust that you have solved your dilemma with the
Haldir- Siddhir situation."

Anarin blanched. "How did you know? I thought you did not possess the gift of
foresight."

Erestor's light laughter rang through the common. "I do not. But I *do* have
eyes and ears, *mellonamin."* [my friend]

Anarin picked a strawberry from the platter before him. "You are not Lord
Elrond's councillor for naught it seems."

Erestor chuckled. "Never has a truer word been spoken."

Anarin smiled. "I am far too happy to be cautious at any rate. Where is
Melpomaen?"

"I know not. I have yet to see him this morn," Erestor replied.

"Mayhap he is sleeping in. Lord Elrond told us to enjoy our holiday. I just
cannot help rising early."

"'Tis a habit of mine as well," Erestor agreed.

Anarin sighed. "Melpomaen does not seem to like Haldir very much. I know not
the reason, for he cannot *really* know him- but I think it is better if he
knows not of Haldir and me; *or* of Haldir and Siddhir for that matter."

Erestor frowned. "That is odd. Melpomaen is usually very pleasant. That does
not sound like him."

"Lord Elrond and I thought the same. They had some words while Haldir was
visiting Imladris that last time. I inadvertently came upon them at the end
of it. Melpomaen seemed very angry, but Haldir was very shocked."

"Interesting. Did you tell Lord Elrond about it?"

"I did," Anarin replied.

"What was his take on it?" Erestor asked.

"He thought that mayhap Melpomaen had a bad day and was upset about
something, and that Haldir was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
He said that he would speak with him, and I suppose he did- because he has
been pleasant to Haldir ever since we arrived."

Erestor chewed on a piece of Lembas, thinking. "In my travels, and there have
been many- whenever I have known someone to be unjustly harsh in such a
manner, usually does so because they are either trying to thwart feelings
being thrown their way- or…*masking* feelings they *themselves* possess."

Anarin's jaw hung open. "You think Melpomaen may have feelings for Haldir as
well?"

"I am not *sure* that it is so, but it is certainly possible. I think all in
Arda have heard the tales that surround Haldir, and you know of what tales I
speak of. They may not all be true, but you know that most tales are
originally based from some point of fact. Besides, one would have to be
*blind* to say that he is not pleasing to the eye," Erestor concluded.

Anarin chuckled. "That is the truth."

Erestor winked. 

"Well, I hope Melpomaen's interest is only borne from lust, because as Haldir
holds Siddhir's heart, Siddhir holds his as well. He told me so himself."

Both elves turned to see Melpomaen enter the common heading their way.
Erestor though his expression was odd. He turned quickly to Anarin. "Somehow
I get the feeling he may know something already. Steel yourself."

*********************

Elrond's breath hitched in his throat when the doors finally opened, and King
Thranduil walked in. He looked nothing like his father, Oropher. The elf was
tall and regal, dressed in emerald green robes highlighted with gold
embroidery about the neck and sleeves. His blond hair was long and straight-
almost waist length, and warriors' braids adorned it. His face was slightly
chiseled, but soft at the same time, and his light blue eyes conveyed a
shrewd intelligence as they washed over them with keen interest. Elrond and
Celeborn stood.

He offered his hand. "Welcome to Mirkwood, and my house. I am Thranduil."

Both Elrond and Celeborn took it, holding it for a few seconds before
releasing it. Thranduil nodded and moved to sit behind the large desk in the
room.

"You may be seated," he said.

Celeborn and Elrond sat. Elrond leaned forward slightly in his chair.

"We thank you for your hospitality and the chance to make amends, Thranduil.
Please let us first express our condolences for the loss of your father and
wife. It pained us greatly to hear of it," Elrond stated.

 "If it were not for my only son Legolas, I surely would have left this earth
with them. I too have heard of your losses." He nodded to them both. "Of your
wife, Elrond, and your daughter, Celeborn; of Gil-Galad, and also the
disappearance of Lord Amroth. Know that this knowledge grieved us as well,"
Thranduil replied.

"You are most kind," Celeborn responded.

Something flickered in the King's azure eyes as he gazed at him "I was not
always that way, I admit- but as I looked upon my son day after dark day, I
realized that I needed to pull myself together and make the best of life so
that he may grow up to be happy. He has lost his mother and grandfather. His
grandmother passed on long ago. All he has left is me, and with times such as
they are- I simply could not leave his life to chance if something were to
one day happen to me. You in Imladris and Lothlorien are *kin*, and I believe
that no child should ever be denied of knowing kin. So, here we are."

Elrond sighed, relieved. "I suppose we all are guilty of becoming immersed in
our own problems. You are right. Kin should never be denied thus. But, we
come to tell you personally that we never received your call for aid. Even
with our problems, if we *had* received the call- we would have answered.
This I promise you."

Thranduil sat back in the large chair. "In a moment of clarity after that
dark time, I realized that our riders must have been taken. I knew in my
heart of hearts that is was impossible that both Imladris *and* Lothlorien
would have left us to fend for ourselves. But, the cloud of darkness that
covered my soul was thick, and I did not see it then. As I said, only my son
helped to bring me back into the light."

"Then we are grateful to him as well," Elrond remarked.

Thranduil smiled, and stood. "Surely you are both in need of sustenance by
now. Please; come with me to the dining hall. We will eat together, and after
that you and your party will be shown to your rooms. Feel free to explore my
castle as you wish. You are welcome here."

Celeborn and Elrond stood and followed the majestic blond elf through the
library doors.

********************

Dusk settled over Lothlorien as Haldir and Tinion were relieved of watch by
Elviondel and Nilfalath. They walked quietly side by side down the narrow
path that led past the common. As they neared the clearing, Haldir was
surprised to see the Lady Galadriel sitting at one of the large tables with
Orophin and Rumil. It was Rumil that spotted them first.

"Da!" Rumil shouted happily, pointing a finger at Haldir.

Galadriel looked over her shoulder and smiled as Orophin jumped up from his
seat and ran to him. Haldir caught him and lifted him high in the air.

"I have missed you, brother," Orophin confessed.

Haldir smiled. "There is never a time when I do not miss you and Rumil."

Tinion ruffled Orophin's hair as they walked over to where Galadriel sat with
Rumil. Both sentinels bowed when they stood before her.

Galadriel smiled. "Please sit for a time, and tell me of your watch."

Haldir lifted Rumil from the bench and hugged him tight, kissing him on the
top of his head. Then he sat, holding the toddler on his lap.

"All is quiet, my Lady. Not a sign of an Orc anywhere to be found this day,"
Haldir answered.

"That is good to hear," Galadriel replied.

 "Yes, my Lady," Tinion responded, grabbing a few cherries within reach.

Galadriel exhaled softly and smiled, looking around the common and up into
the darkening sky. "Is it not a lovely night?"

"It is, my Lady," Haldir answered.

"We must always remember to cherish nights and days such as these, for
darkness can always find a way to tarnish them." She sighed, and rose. "It is
time for me to retire. The children have eaten. Will you take them with you?"

"Yes, my Lady. Thank you," Haldir replied. 

She smiled, and kissed both Orophin and Rumil, who giggled softly. "Very well
then. *Quel du. Tenna ‘ tur're."*[Good night. Until tomorrow]

"*Quel du, Arwenamin. Hannon lle."* [good night, my Lady. Thank you] Haldir
replied.

Tinion rose and held out his arm. "I will escort you to your chambers, my
Lady."

Galadriel smiled, and took his arm. She turned and waved to Haldir and his
brothers as they strolled off into the night.
FIFTEEN



Fereveldir stopped in mid-stroll when he neared Haldir's talan and smiled.
His longtime friend was rolling around in the grass beneath his talan with
his brothers. It seemed as if they were getting the better of him too, with
Orophin holding his arms while Rumil bounced up and down on his chest- but
suddenly Haldir broke free, and turned the tables on them. He pinned them
both to the ground with ease, and the children giggled uncontrollably as
Haldir tickled them relentlessly. 

"We are full of energy this day, are we not?" Fereveldir chuckled.

Haldir stopped his assault on his brothers to turn and look at his friend
with a sinister grin. "I think a good tickling is in order for such
mischievous elflings. Would you not agree?"

Fereveldir laughed, as he joined them on the grass. "Is it not too early for
mischief?"

"Not for them," Haldir replied, continuing his assault. The children roared
with laughter.

"What have they done?"

"You should see our talan! It is in a perpetual state of disarray due to
these two- and guess who is left to clean it up?"

"We will clean it, brother," Orophin said through his laughter.

"Right, like you always do," Haldir sneered.

"We give up now," Orophin called out.

Haldir stopped tickling them. Both children rolled over on their sides,
catching their breath. He turned then and winked at Fereveldir.

"This should make for a good long nap this afternoon."

"No doubt," Fereveldir replied, grinning.

"That was not fair brother. You are bigger than us," Orophin complained.

Haldir grinned. "I will *always* be bigger than you too, so it is best not to
forget that the next time you two are plotting to overthrow me."

Orophin gazed at Rumil, who was now sitting up on his knees, watching him
with interest. He winked at the toddler. "Rumil, *aphado nin!* [follow me]
Both children suddenly took off running through the wood.

*"Ed' I'ear ar' elenea!"* [By the sea and stars]  Haldir shrieked, hurriedly
getting to his feet to pursue them. Fereveldir howled with laughter as he too
ran with Haldir after the retreating elflings.

********************

Galadriel sighed with relief and backed away from her mirror with a smile.
Things were well in Mirkwood. She had prayed silently to the Valar that it
would be, and her prayers had been answered. She made her way back to her
chambers and sat on the divan, looking out of her window and surveying the
wood below.

Several uniformed sentinels milled about near the base of the grand Mallorn
she lived in and all was as it should be- quiet and peaceful. How she wished
that it could last. She sighed again, for she knew that there would come a
time when this blissful peace would be shattered, and the Elven realms of
Lothlorien, Mirkwood and Imladris would have to work together to fight
against the darkness that would come. Now was not the time for her kin to be
in conflict, and she thanked the Valar again that it would not be so.

Her thoughts drifted to Rumil, and she grinned. In her mind's eye, she could
see his fair round face and almost hear his contagious laughter. The elfling
held a special place in her heart, although he was as mischievous as they
came, she knew. She chuckled. Haldir had his hands full with that one, but he
did a wonderful job raising him and his other brother, Orophin.

She started when she thought she heard Rumil's giggles from below. She looked
out of the window again to see him just a few yards away, running right
behind Orophin, with Haldir and Fereveldir in hot pursuit. She laughed aloud.
How she loved her adopted sons. They were a beaming ray of light in her life.

She rose and quickly strolled to the door.

********************

Haldir turned on a burst of speed and overtook Rumil, sweeping the laughing
toddler up with one arm as he continued his chase for Orophin. Orophin tried
to turn sharply and dodge him just as he was closing in, and that proved to
be a mistake. Haldir was on top of him then and grabbed at him with his free
arm. The three brothers went sprawling down onto the grass.

 Fereveldir grinned as he came to a full stop and plopped down beside them.
"You should have kept straight, Oro. You might have outrun him."

"I think not," Haldir remarked, tickling both brothers simultaneously. 

"I thought I heard Rumil out here. His sweet laughter is infectious,"
Galadriel called out, grinning as she approached them.


Haldir smiled. "Yes, my Lady. He and Oro are up to their usual mischief."

"My Lady," Fereveldir greeted, rising to his feet.

Galadriel waved her hand. "As you were, Fereveldir. I am just here to look
after the children."

Fereveldir smiled, and sat again. "Very well, my Lady."

Galadriel sat with them, and opened her arms to Rumil. "What mischief have
you been up to, *pen-tithen?* [little one]

Rumil giggled, stood and walked over to her. She gave him a big hug.

"Apparently, he has been plotting with Oro to give me a hard time today,"
Haldir offered, as Orophin broke into a wide grin.

Fereveldir chuckled. "Which they have done successfully."

Galadriel smoothed her hand over Rumil's unkempt hair, and cooed at him.
"That cannot be true. How can one as adorable as you be guilty of such acts?"

Rumil smiled, turned and pointed to Haldir as if explaining his actions.
"Da!"

 "There! He has admitted his guilt. But, the *real* ringleader was this
one," Haldir laughed, as he pulled Orophin close.

"It is true, my Lady," Fereveldir chuckled.

"Be that as it may, in my opinion- the children are innocent," Galadriel
remarked with a grin. "I was wondering if I could take them for a time,
Haldir? It is quite quiet in my chambers without my husband."

"If you wish, my Lady," Haldir replied. "But if they prove to be too much, do
not hesitate to call upon me."

Galadriel stood, holding Rumil's hand- and gesturing to Orophin. "I am sure
we will be just fine. Won't we, Orophin?"

"Yes, my Lady," Orophin answered, standing. He turned to Haldir. "I had fun
today, brother."

Haldir smiled, as he and Fereveldir rose. He walked over to Orophin and
hugged him. "As did I, *pen-neth."* [young one]

He moved then to Rumil, and picked him up. "You be good, Ru. Try not to drive
our Lady mad, all right?"

Rumil grinned and wrapped his arms around Haldir's neck. "Gee-o-Da!"

Haldir laughed and kissed him. "I hope that is a yes, *pen-pigen."* [tiny
one] He kissed him again, and gave him a hug before putting him down.

"I know not what he says, brother- but he knows what we say," Orophin
remarked.

Haldir smiled. "Apparently."

"His love for you both is very clear, as is your love for him and each
other," Galadriel noted, looking into Haldir's smiling grey eyes. "I am proud
to be able to care for you all as my sons."

Haldir bowed. "We are most grateful, my Lady."

 Galadriel smiled, and winked. "Enjoy your day. Good day, Fereveldir."

"Good day, my Lady," Fereveldir replied.

Galadriel took both children's hands. "Come, children. I believe I have some
sweet bread waiting just for you."

"Sweet bread!" Orophin exclaimed with a smile. "Ru and I love sweet bread!"

"Yes, I know," Galadriel replied, nodding to Haldir and Fereveldir as they
strolled away. 

********************

 "We have much appreciated your hospitality, Thranduil. I do hope you will
let us extend the same to you in the near future, both in Imladris and
Lothlorien," Elrond remarked, as he, Thranduil and Celeborn strolled through
the courtyard, followed by Glorfindel and Siddhir.

Thranduil smiled. "I will certainly keep that in mind. I have yet to venture
from Mirkwood."

"Well, you should. As you said, knowing kin is important. We agree," Celeborn
commented.

Thranduil chuckled. "I will certainly take that under advisement. You may
well see me sooner than you think, my friends."

The castle guards brought forth the horses as they neared the gates. Siddhir
and Glorfindel instinctively moved ahead of the King and their Lords, took
the reigns of their horses and mounted them. They conversed amongst each
other while waiting for Elrond and Celeborn.

"I hear the people of Lothlorien live amongst the branches. Is that so,
Celeborn?" Thranduil inquired.

Celeborn grinned. "It is so. I too had heard of Amroth's homes in the trees
whilst I was in Doriath. I was a tad sceptical, I must admit; but now that we
are there- I would not have it any other way."

Thranduil smiled. "Interesting."

"I found it surprisingly comfortable the first time I stayed in Lorien. It
was different, for certain, but there is something to be said about sleeping
under the stars. There is definitely a sense of tranquillity about it,"
Elrond remarked.

"It sounds intriguing. I think I shall definitely see it for myself someday
soon."

"We would love to have you," Celeborn said.

" I have heard also of breathtaking beauty in the gardens of Imladris,
Elrond."

"I can attest to that," Celeborn interjected. "Things grow there that grow no
where else in all of Arda."

Elrond smiled. "The gardens make for a lovely touch to the Last Homely House,
for certain."

"I hope to keep company with you both in your lands someday," Thranduil
remarked, placing a hand on each of their shoulders. "Perhaps I will bring my
son as well."

"Do that. We would be pleased to have him," Elrond replied.

"It is time for us to be off," Celeborn said. "Thranduil, peace be with you
and yours."

"And yours as well *mellon,"* [friend] Thranduil answered.

Celeborn moved to his horse and mounted. 

"We will not be strangers, *mellon.* I do not possess the gift of foresight
such as you, but I foresee our realms becoming close again- and our people
even closer." Thranduil said, with a wide smile and a teasing twinkle
brightening his sapphire blue eyes.

Elrond thought his knees would buckle under the King's gaze. He nodded. "That
would be the gift of all gifts. Peace be with you, *mellonamin."* [my friend]

"You too," Thranduil replied.

Elrond joined the others, and after a last look at the stunningly regal King
who stood and watched them go, they galloped away from Mirkwood heading back
to Lothlorien.

********************

Erestor, Melpomaen and Anarin, amongst others clapped when Haldir grasped
Fereveldir's hand and pulled him up from the ground.

"You put up a very good fight this time *mellon,* [friend]" Haldir chuckled.

Fereveldir smiled. "Well, sparring with you has strengthened my skills, I
suppose."

Erestor sauntered up to them. "You are quite the skilled swordsman, Haldir."

"*Hannon lle."*  [thank you] Haldir replied.

"He is a skilled archer as well," Fereveldir laughed. "He beats me at that
too."
 
"Is that so?" Melpomaen asked, looking at Haldir. "Siddhir was our best
archer *and* swordsman, outside of Gil Galad before he left us. Perhaps you
should spar with him sometime."

Anarin gazed quickly at Erestor before looking at Haldir.

"He already has. Well, they shot arrows together at any rate," Fereveldir
interjected. "He beat him too."

Melpomaen raised an eyebrow. "Truly? My, thou art skilled after all."

Haldir looked at him coolly. "Besting Siddhir was not an easy victory by far,
but thank you." He nodded at Anarin and Erestor. "I shall see you again. I
must take my leave now, for the hour has grown late, and I am weary."

"I will walk with you," Fereveldir stated. He nodded to Melpomaen, Erestor
and Anarin. "*Quel du."* [Good night]

The Imladris elves watched as Fereveldir sprinted to catch up with Haldir,
who had already started walking away.
SIXTEEN



"Listen up, you wargs!" The Orc commander called out to the mass of
disorganized, grunting troopers waiting for direction. 

"I hope this is about food, because I'm starving. I don't see why we're out
here anyway. There's nothing but woods all ‘round fer' miles.  Pitiful waste
of time, I'd say," one Orc complained.

The commander hissed and cut the cantankerous Orc down with a quick sweep of
his blade. The others inhaled sharply and backed away cowering, in both in
astonishment and fear.

"Food he wanted, and food he's become," The commander growled. "Is there
anyone else here who'd like to join him?"

The Orcs fell silent.

"I thought as much," the commander continued. "I have news from the Dark
Lord, and you will do what is asked of you, lest you meet the same fate as
your comrade here," he snarled, kicking aside the dead body of the fallen
soldier.

 "There's a party of elves coming thru from Mirkwood within a couple of
weeks, I am told. We are to take them down, but not quite before they lead us
to the Golden Wood," the Commander went on.

"*The Golden Wood?"* Another Orc sniggered. "What kinda name is that? But
listen, we ain't ever *seen* the place. It's protected by some elf witch.
Supposed ter be invisible. How're we meant to know when we got to the damned
place?" 

The Orc cringed when the commander turned to him. Surprisingly, the commander
laughed.

"If it weren't for a half intelligent question spoken from your lips you
would surely join your friend as an appetizer. It's true, we can't see the
Wood. But we know that's where they're heading, and we *will* ambush them. We
will spread out far along their course and strike when the time is right.
They'll call for aid, for there are two in this party that can *See*. When
the others come forth to assist them, we will know then from where they come,
and we will slaughter them as well. As for the two that can *See,* the Dark
Lord has a special death in store for them. Outside of myself, who is the
best archer amongst you?"

All heads turned to a fairly large Orc called Tarq, and gave way as he
stepped forward.

"That'd be me, commander."

"Good. Then to you I assign this task." He knelt down and pulled several
arrows from a tattered quiver, and turned to him. "These arrows are coated
with poison. We will use these to take down 

the Seers. We will target them from the trees above."  He took half and
handed the other half to Tarq.

The Orc grunted and took them. 

"You are to take the dark one; that half-breed lordling. I'll take the other,
for Melkor has shown him to me," the commander continued.

"*Melkor!"* Several Orcs' breath hitched in their throats at the mere mention
of the name.

"That is right, you worms." The Orc commander remarked. He turned to look
Tarq in the eyes. "Do not miss, archer- for poisoned arrows are costly, and
if you do- you too will meet their fate."

"I won't, Commander."

The commander chortled, and moved to stand over the corpse of the Orc he had
slain. "Good. Now come; eat up boys!  We have but only to wait."

************************************

Two weeks later, Elrond and party were within a league of the outskirts of
the great divide. They proceeded at a leisurely pace, conversing quietly
amongst themselves. It was almost dusk, streaks of grey, orange and azure
stretched out along the sky above the road they had travelled for miles.
Siddhir smiled as he gazed up into the heavens. He loved sunsets; sunrises
too for that matter, for both displayed such colourful masterpieces of beauty
for all to bear witness to.

Suddenly a uneasy feeling made him snap his head around. He scanned the
plains quickly as far as he could see, but saw nothing. He frowned. A
terrible sense for foreboding crawled under his skin like maggots through
rotten flesh. He stopped his horse abruptly, causing Celeborn and Elrond to
halt suddenly as well. Glorfindel, who was pacing beside him, had moved ahead
a few paces before stopping and turning around.

"*Mani naa ta? Mani marte?"* [what is it? what happened?] Glorfindel queried,
a confused look crossing his well defined features.

"*Nad no ennas,"* [something is out there] Siddhir whispered, his sharp,
suspicious eyes darting all around them.

Glorfindel smiled. "*Uuma dela pen-neth,* [don't worry, young one] all is
well," He nodded at the Lords behind him and turned his attention back to
Siddhir. "*Uuma ma'ten rashwe, ta tuluva a'lle.*  [don't look for trouble, it
will come to you] The divide is near."

Siddhir's features grew dark. "*Dina! Lye aphadar aen!"*  [Be silent! We are
being followed!] He did not give Glorfindel a chance to answer. He moved
slowly towards Elrond.

"Look out and *See,* my Lord. How many?" Siddhir whispered.

Elrond closed his eyes for a few moments, and then opened them fast and wide.
"Fourscore at least! All around us!"

Siddhir clenched his teeth. "Our skills are vast, but we are only four. We
cannot take them all- especially should they charge upon us at once. My Lord
Elrond, seek out Lady Galadriel. Have her send reinforcements to meet us."

Siddhir moved his horse back in formation, and turned to them. "We ride now.
We will start out slowly, as we were- but when I say, we will ride hard and
fast. We must get as close as we possibly can to Lothlorien. *Heniach nin?"*
[do you understand?]

The warriors nodded, and they slowly set forth.

********************

Haldir watched his brothers as they ate. Orophin was helping to feed Rumil,
and Rumil was letting him- which was a first. Normally Rumil would be hard at
work trying to feed Orophin instead, which usually caused Orophin to whine
when Rumil would undoubtedly drop food onto his clothes. They had come such a
long way, he thought.

Orophin looked at him. "Are you well, brother?"

Haldir blinked. "I am very well. Why would you ask?"

"You look sad," Orophin answered.

Haldir smiled. "I am far from sad, *pen-neth.* [young one] In fact, I am
quite content. I was just thinking how very much I love you both."

Orophin grinned. "We love you too brother, even though we are bad sometimes."

Haldir reached out and pulled him close, hugging him. "I would never say that
you were bad; wilful, perhaps- but never bad."

"Da!" Rumil interjected, holding out his arms.

Haldir chuckled, and reached over to pick him up. "You want a hug too, *pen-
tithen?* [little one]

Rumil responded by wrapping both arms around Haldir's neck. Haldir laughed
and held him tight, along with Orophin at his side. 

"Can we practise tomorrow, brother? Lady Galadriel will be glad to watch
Rumil," Orophin suggested.

"Possibly. I have an early watch, but I will be free in the afternoon,"
Haldir answered.

"Good. Can we play the game Siddhir gave me before bed?"

Haldir smiled. "I suppose. Go and get it, whilst I clear the table."

Orophin ran into the other room to fetch the game. Haldir smoothed over
Rumil's unruly hair and grinned.

"I hope that your hair becomes more manageable as you grow older Ru, for now
it is quite disorderly."

"Da-dir!" Rumil giggled in response.

Haldir laughed, and kissed the toddler on the forehead. "Well, that was much
closer. You will get my name right someday." 

Orophin dashed in again with the game. Haldir put Rumil back down, and
cleared the table of all but the sweetbread. He gave a piece to Rumil, who
took it eagerly. 

Haldir winked at Orophin. "That will keep him busy for a time."

Orophin laughed and set up the pieces to the game on the table. "I go first."

"Of course," Haldir chuckled.

Orophin made his move, and looked up at Haldir. "It is your turn, brother."

Both elves glanced at Rumil, who had started humming- and smiled. Haldir
moved his piece on the board.

"Are you sure you want to move there?" Orophin asked, with a grin.

Haldir looked at his piece on the board, and back at Orophin. "Why certainly.
What is wrong with that move?"

Orophin chuckled, and moved his piece, overtaking Haldir's on the board.
"Because I can do this!"

"Ah!" Haldir frowned, slapping his forehead. "How dim of me!"

Orophin laughed hard. 

Haldir smiled, and moved his next piece. "Mayhap it is time I went to bed,
for my senses are less than sharp, it would seem."

"You just need more practice," Orophin snickered.

"That I do," Haldir replied. "I was thinking…."

Haldir stopped cold, as an alarm sounded throughout the wood.

********************************

"*Noro lim!"* [ride fast] Siddhir shouted, as the four charged down the wide
dirt path, kicking up dust as they went. Just as Siddhir had thought, the
Orcs gave way their cover and began to come at them from behind, and on both
sides as far as he could see. Arrows hurled past them in droves, hissing like
serpents in the darkening night.

They tore on, ducking and shooting arrows all along the way. Siddhir grit his
teeth as one tore past his arm, ripping his sleeve and drawing blood. The
slash it created burned like fire, but he ignored it, keeping hold of the
reins as he pressed forward.

The divide was now in sight. Siddhir looked behind to see that his party was
still with him and urged his horse to go faster. Glorfindel called out to him
with alarm. He turned back to see a mass of Orcs charging forth directly in
front of them.

"*Do not falter! Ride!"* Siddhir shouted above the din that roared around
them. "*Mow them down if need be! Ride!"*

It seemed as if they had come from nowhere. Out of the dark night, the line
of Orcs that blocked their route to the divide was thickening, to Siddhir's
horror. There were far more than fourscore now, and although they had heard
the alarm sound, he prayed to the Valar that the reinforcements would make it
to them in time. He did not know how long the four of them could keep the
ever-growing sea of monsters at bay. Elrond's scream told him that their
clock had just started ticking.

************************

"Oro, I must trust you now to look after Ru!" Haldir called out, as he
hurriedly dressed in the other room. "I have not the time to get you both to
our Lady. *Lle rangwa amin?"* [do you understand me?]

"Yes, brother," Orophin answered. "Do not worry."

Haldir rushed over to quickly embrace him. "I worry not, for you are more
than capable. *"Amin mela lle."* [I love you]

"I love you too, brother," Orophin replied.

Haldir quickly moved to Rumil and kissed him, tasting sweetbread on the
toddler's lips. 

"Hmm, Da," Rumil replied thoughtfully, pushing another piece of sweetbread in
his mouth.

Haldir winked at Orophin, and rushed out of the talan.

***********************

Siddhir turned to see that Elrond had been unseated and was now surrounded
and engaged in battle on the ground. He whistled sharply to let the others
know what was happening, and quickly turned his horse around and charged
towards him, followed now by both Celeborn and Glorfindel. When they reached
him with swords drawn, they jumped from their horses and fought their way to
his side.

"Are you injured, my Lord?" Siddhir called out above the din of battle.

"I took an arrow to the arm, but not mortally as yet," Elrond replied,
swiftly beheading a large Orc in his path. "But you are, it seems."

"'Tis nothing, my Lord. Keep pressing forward!" Siddhir shouted, pulling his
sword from an unfortunate Orc's chest.

Steel clashed loudly amongst steel as they battled on. Little progress was
made as they tried to move forward for there were simply too many Orcs
containing them. The more they cut down, more appeared to take their place.
They kept their backs to each other forming a small a circle, covering all
points of entry, but Siddhir knew that they would be overcome.

He suddenly darted out and away from them, slashing one Orc after another as
he went. Black blood covered him from head to toe as it spurted forth from
their putrid bodies. Just as he thought, a large number of Orcs broke away
and followed him, leaving space for the others to manoeuver. As he avoided a
sweep of an Orc's blade across his stomach, he could see the others doing the
same and moving forward as fast as they could.

Noticing a clear path to his right, Siddhir charged through it, stabbing and
slashing as he went. He could see Lorien's army charging fast towards them
now, and he breathed a sigh of relief. Just a while longer, he thought, as he
fended off another four Orcs. Suddenly, a searing pain exploded in his leg
and he fell to the ground, losing his sword. An exceptionally large Orc
jumped on top of him then from the trees above, pressing the arrow that was
lodged in his thigh clean through to the earth below them. Siddhir heard
himself scream.

"Die now, elf!" The horrific looking Orc shouted, holding his blade fast to
Siddhir's throat.

Siddhir thrashed underneath him, mostly from the pain in his leg- surprising
the Orc. He raised his good leg and pulled a dagger from his boot, brought it
up high and plunged it into the unsuspecting Orc's back. The creature's life
escaped him with a pitiful hiss and his rancid corpse fell forward onto
Siddhir, who growled and pushed him off.

Another Orc came at him, and he could not move- immobilized by the arrow
chaining him to the earth. He held fast to the dagger and tried to grab his
fallen sword, but it was just out of his arm's reach. Suddenly, a cluster of
arrows took the Orc down, and Haldir was at his side, kneeling by him.

"No!" Siddhir shouted. "You must go to our Lords!"

"I will *not* leave you here, Siddhir!" Haldir screamed back, firing a volley
of arrows at the Orcs closing in on them.

While Haldir covered them by shooting arrows continuously, Siddhir groaned
and quickly pulled himself up into a sitting position. With one hand he held
tight to the arrow lodged in his thigh 
from above, while grasping it underneath him simultaneously. He took a deep
breath and raised his leg high enough to get a good grip on the end that was
imbedded in the earth. Tears spilled from his eyes as he snapped it off. 

Haldir grimaced.

With a scream, Siddhir pulled what was left of the arrow from his flesh. The
pain was blinding, and threatened to overtake him. Sweat, mingled with tears,
dirt, and black Orc blood distorted his fair features- but he fought against
it. Now was not the time to lose consciousness, he thought. He reached out
and claimed his sword again.

"Help me up, Haldir,"

Haldir leaned down and quickly helped him to his feet. "Stay here, and do not
try to move. We will fight together from this position."

Siddhir coughed. "Fair enough."

Together, they fought. Haldir could not help but be impressed by Siddhir's
strength and sheer force of will, still being able to fight in his obviously
tortured condition. Finally, what seemed to have lasted for an eternity was
over. Feeling Siddhir still pressed at his back, Haldir looked out at nearly
two hundred Orc corpses sprawled out over the plains. 

He sighed heavily and turned with a weary smile to face Siddhir, just in time
to catch him as he fell to the ground. 
SEVENTEEN



"You have done exceptional work, Haldir," The healer commented, as he
examined Siddhir's injured leg and arm. "You have my deepest gratitude. With
Lord Elrond and my assistant hurt as well, I am short of help here."

"I will aid you in every way possible as long as you need me," Haldir
replied.

"Where did you learn your skills at healing?"

"Lord Elrond, for the most part," Haldir answered, mildly.

"Ah! You have learned from the best. I am sure our injured warriors will be
grateful that you took an interest in healing as well as warfare. Come; he
will not awaken for a time. There are others we need to have a look at."

"Very well," Haldir responded, taking a last glance at Siddhir, who seemed to
be resting comfortably.

Together they hurried through each of the remaining five rooms in the first
of two large structures that resembled talans, but instead of being high in
the trees, were built low to the ground- primarily because it made for easier
access of the wounded. They tended to those that needed it, and after a time,
left and went directly across to the second structure. Inside were six rooms
as well, and all were occupied with injured warriors. Three were well enough
to be discharged, then together they looked in on Erestor and Anendel, the
healer's assistant. Satisfied that all was well with them for a time, they
continued on to the last room in which Tinion lay.

Haldir kept his composure when he saw him, for the flaxen haired elf was
covered in blood from his neck to his stomach. As they neared his bed,
Tinion's large sapphire eyes opened to greet them. He smiled.

"Does an elf have to lose a limb in order to gain more prompt attention
around here?"

Haldir frowned as he and the healer peeled off the sentinel's blood-stained
tunic. "We have come as fast as we could, *meldir.* [friend] There are many
wounded this night."

"I was jesting, Haldir. Do not look so concerned. It is just a scratch,"
Tinion replied.

After cleaning the wound to get a better look, the "scratch" that Tinion
spoke of went from his neck right under the ear and extended all the way down
his chest to his hip. Haldir exhaled slowly and turned to the healer.

"This will need stitches, and plenty of them. I will tend to him whilst you
go on. There are others needing attention. Call upon me if should you desire
assistance."

The healer nodded. "*Hannon lle.* [thank you] Tinion, you are in good hands."

"I know," Tinion replied, with a wink.

The healer left, and Haldir set about cleaning the extensive wound more
thoroughly. Tinion tensed, but he did not utter a sound.

"This scratch you refer to surely has to be uncomfortable, Tinion. There is
no shame in lending voice to your pain," Haldir stated.

Tinion opened his eyes and looked at him. "Worry not, *meldir.* [friend] I am
sure the stitches will allow me to do so."

********************

Galadriel rushed inside the first set of healer's talans and moved quickly
towards Celeborn as he rose from the bed.

"My husband, surely you should be resting! Why are you up? Has the healer
tended to you?"

"He has, and I am fine, *melamin.* [my love] There are many warriors that
need this bed more than I," Celeborn replied.

Galadriel ran her hand over his face and the few scars that marred it. "I
feared so for you."

Celeborn smiled, cupped her tear-stained face in his hands and kissed her.
"*N'uma ner, A'maelamin.* [no more, my beloved] Your husband is quite well. I
would much like to see to my wounded soldiers now."

Galadriel stepped beside him. "As you wish."

As they left the room, they passed Dinendal, who was sporting a nasty scar
along the side of his fair face, extending from ear to jaw. The sentinel
stopped and bowed to them.

"My Lord and Lady," he whispered.

"As you were, sentinel," Celeborn remarked, reaching out to grasp the tall
blond elf by the chin and taking a better look at him. "How fare you?"

"I am well enough, my Lord. There are others far worse than I."

Satisfied that the sentinel was all right, Celeborn released him. "Very well.
You will take three days rest before returning to watch."

"*Hannon lle, Heruamin,*" [thank you, my Lord] Dinendal replied.

They continued on, checking each room and the warriors inside. They found
that Glorfindel and Elviondel had minor wounds, and were now waiting to be
discharged from the healer. They spoke with each of them briefly, and left,
moving to the last two rooms. Elrond was next.

The Lord of Imladris lay unconscious. They moved closer, noting the vials of
medicines on a table beside the bed. He apparently had bad wounds upon both
his shoulder and arm, but they had already been tended to and bound. Celeborn
moved closer, and lifted the end of one of the bandages. The skin underneath
was black.

"Elbereth! He has been poisoned," he hissed.

Galadriel took a look at the medicine vials, and set then back down
carefully. She laid a hand on Elrond's chest for a few moments, closing her
eyes. She opened them and moved away.

"It will take time for the medicine to work. Come; let us continue," she
urged Celeborn.

They left his room and stepped in the last. Siddhir also lay unconscious.
More of the same medicines lined the table by his bedside as well. Celeborn
checked the bandaged wounds to his arm and thigh. The arm was fine, but his
thigh was black even more so than Elrond's wounds.

"By the Valar," Celeborn whispered. "He too has been poisoned! Why them and
not the rest of us?"

Galadriel repeated what she had done for Elrond. When she was done, she
opened her eyes. "Because they can *See.* Come; let us check the other side."

********************

Taurnil, Nilfalath and Anyriand were leaving the healer's talans just as
Celeborn and Galadriel approached. Celeborn halted them and looked them over,
noting superficial wounds, and gave them the same order as Dinendal for three
days rest before returning to watch. The sentinels thanked him and went on
their way. They stepped inside the second structure of talans.

The first two rooms were empty, but in the third, the healer seemed to be in
a disagreement with both Anendel, his assistant, and Erestor, who stood
beside him, having left his own bed. Celeborn strode inside quickly, followed
by Galadriel.

"What is the meaning of this disturbance?" Celeborn snapped.

The healer turned to him and bowed. "My Lord, forgive us. My assistant and
Erestor here are at odds with me regarding their condition. I would want that
they stay here and rest for at least another day."

"But I am well enough, my Lord," Anendel pleaded. 


"As am I," Erestor added.

"And my help is needed here," Anendel continued.

"I have help," The healer countered, frowning at his subaltern. "So you will
concentrate on healing yourself." He turned to Erestor. "And as for you, Lord
Elrond would have our heads if we allowed you to walk away without a clean
bill of health. You know this as well as I."

Erestor smirked. "You worry for naught, healer."

Celeborn stepped up to Erestor. "Show me your wounds."

Erestor sighed, and opened his torn tunic to reveal the bandages underneath
that circled his abdomen. Celeborn carefully lifted and looked under them. He
saw two large, deep puncture wounds that were still bleeding despite the
packing of herbs inside them. He lowered the bandage and looked the raven-
haired elf straight in the eyes.

"You will go back to your room and to bed. You will do so now."

Erestor blinked. The tone in Celeborn's voice was not to be questioned. "Yes,
my Lord." He turned and left the room.

The healer pointed to Anendel. "His wounds are similar, my Lord."

"Then he too will stay in bed. Is that understood, sentinel?" 

"Yes, my Lord," Anendel replied, reluctantly.

"Good. Who else do we have here wounded?" Celeborn asked.

"Tinion is here as well, my Lord- in the last room," the healer answered. "He
has suffered a very nasty slash from a blade. He is in good spirits, but
requires several stitches. Haldir is tending to him now. He has been of great
help to me."

Celeborn nodded. "I am sure. We will see to them now."

"Thank you, my Lord," 

The healer bowed as Galadriel and Celeborn left Anendel's room and headed to
the last, passing Erestor back in his bed on the way. Haldir had just
finished stitching, and rose to retrieve a creamy mixture to wipe over them.

"Haldir, how fares our patient?" Celeborn asked.



Haldir smirked. "He fares well enough. His wounds have neither silenced his
curt tongue nor his offbeat wit."

Celeborn laughed. "Is that so?"

Tinion grinned. "Perhaps you should inform him my Lord, that he should
indulge his patients in their humour. It makes for a swifter recovery."

"I think not, *rwaler,* [lusty one] for your *humour* would find my stitches
undone," Haldir quipped.

Galadriel laughed the loudest at Haldir's remark.

Celeborn winced when Tinion's long wound came into view as Haldir slowly
covered it with a maize coloured cream. After doing so, he cut a bandage into
several strips and covered its length.

"That is quite a scar, Tinion," Celeborn noted.

Haldir covered Tinion with the sheet. "He told me it was just a scratch."

"A *scratch,* eh? Well, that is one *almighty* scratch then," Celeborn joked.

Tinion pulled himself up in the bed. "Now that it has been properly taken
care of, I can leave this place forthwith."

Haldir reached out and placed a heavy hand on Tinion's chest, pushing him
back down onto the bed. "What you will do is stay right here."

"My Lord, I implore you…" Tinion began.

"Do not try to get him to intercede with my direction, sly one," Haldir cut
in. "He did no such thing for Anendel nor Erestor, as you and I both heard.
Your fate will be the same." 

Celeborn and Galadriel chuckled.

Tinion sighed. "The stubbornness of elves." 

Haldir winked at the Lord and Lady, and returned his gaze to Tinion. "You, my
wilful friend, will reside here just as long as your other questioning
brethren- perhaps longer."

Tinion raised an eyebrow. "Ah! So you have joined the ranks of conspirators
that vie to keep us idle here, eh Haldir?"

Haldir smiled. "That is quite correct, *meldir.* [friend] It seems you have
not totally lost your wits after all. I must go now and check again on
Siddhir. Get some rest, before I return and give you 

something to help you do so."

 "A healer that threatens his patients," Tinion chuckled. "You are rich,
Haldir."

Haldir winked. "Actually, my pay is terrible."

Galadriel chuckled at Haldir's remark, and squeezed Tinion's hand before she
left to return to the first set of talans with Haldir and Celeborn.

********************

Elrond opened his eyes as the healer checked the dressings on his wounds. The
healer smiled.

"It is good to see you awake, my Lord. How do you feel?"

"I am not quite sure," Elrond answered.

"No matter, I am sure you will be up and about quite soon," the healer
replied, noticing that the blackening of his wound was subsiding somewhat.

"May I have some water?"

"Certainly," the healer responded, turning to pour some in a goblet from a
nearby flask when Haldir, Celeborn and Galadriel strolled in.

"Elrond! How good to see you back with us," Celeborn greeted him.

"It is good to be back," Elrond answered, taking a sip of the water handed to
him.

"It is good to see you faring so well, my Lord," Haldir said to Elrond, who
nodded in return. Haldir looked at the healer. "I will check in on Siddhir
now."

"Very well. Many thanks, Haldir."

Haldir bowed before he left the room. He entered Siddhir's room to find him
still unconscious. He unwrapped and checked the wound on his arm. Satisfied
that it was healing well enough, he applied a thin layer of cream on it, and
rewrapped it. Then he started removing the bandage on the insensible elf's
thigh.

He cringed involuntarily as his mind replayed the image of Siddhir pulling
the arrow out as the lack of bandages revealed the blackened flesh
underneath. The packed herbs appeared to be soaked in blood. Carefully he
removed them, and started cleaning the wound again before inserting more. It
was then that Celeborn and Galadriel quietly entered the room.

"I am no healer, but that does not look at all good, Haldir," Celeborn
remarked edging closer to the bed. Galadriel joined him, and gently placed
her hand on the injured sentinel's forehead.


"It is not, my Lord. The poison seems to be spreading. The wound is much
worse than before," Haldir replied, gently spreading the cream over the
entire thigh and re-wrapping it again. "If this keeps up, he will soon have a
fever as well."

"He already has," Galadriel informed him.

"Elbereth!" Haldir swore. He moved quickly to the table, examining several of
the vials that were there. He pulled three of them aside, and selected an
empty one with which to mix them. He poured equal parts of all three vials
into one, and shook it vigorously.

"What are you doing?" Celeborn inquired.

"It is something Lord Elrond showed me long ago. It is done rarely, but it
might help. Please assist me and raise his head just a bit?"

Celeborn moved forward quickly. "Certainly."

Haldir squeezed Siddhir's jaw gently to open his mouth, and slowly let the
mixture seep down his throat. When he was done, he nodded to Celeborn to
lower him.

Haldir wiped his brow. "Now we have to wait, for we cannot do anything else
until it is known how he will respond to this."

Galadriel put a hand on his shoulder. "You look weary, *nin ion."* [my son]

Haldir sighed. "I can rest later. Would you please look in on Ru and Oro? I
had to leave them in our talan when the alarm sounded. They should be
sleeping, but I would feel better if they were with you."

"Of course," Galadriel answered. "Worry not for your brothers, we will take
care of them. You should take an opportunity to get some rest yourself."

"I will. *Hannon lle."* [thank you]

Galadriel took Celeborn's hand, and they left. Haldir sat by Siddhir's
bedside and grasped his hand.

"Please do not leave me, *lirimaer.* [lovely one] There is so much I need to
say to you."

EIGHTEEN




"Haldir?"

"Hmm?" 

"It is not necessary to hover over me so. I am perfectly fine." 

Haldir's eyes flew open, and he raised his head from Siddhir's chest. "You're
conscious!"

"Obviously, otherwise I would not have noticed you using my chest for a
pillow."

Haldir frowned, and stood. "Forgive me, I was exhausted. I will tend to your
wound now."

Siddhir grinned. "I was jesting, Haldir. Do not look so serious. Come; sit
back down."

Haldir did as he was asked. Siddhir watched him with a twinkle in his eyes.

"You look awful."

Haldir smiled sheepishly, pushing his hair back into place with his hands. "I
suppose I do. I have been here all night assisting the healer. Many have been
wounded."

Siddhir smiled. "So, yet *another* skill of yours comes to light. Is there
anything you cannot do?"

Haldir looked at him. "I am sure there are many things I cannot do."

"Be that as it may, I am grateful for whatever you have done for me."

Haldir took his hand. "I was afraid I would lose you."

Siddhir blinked, surprised. 

Haldir sighed. "I have been a fool to try and deny how I feel about you. Is
it in your heart to forgive me?"

"I can do nothing else, for naught but you occupies my heart," Siddhir
answered quietly after a long moment.

Haldir looked at him with sorrowful eyes. "I have been less… than cordial…and
even…honest with you- my…my tryst with Anarin…"

Siddhir shook his head and held a finger to his lips to silence him. "There
is no need to explain." 
Haldir exhaled and covered Siddhir's hand with both of his. "I care for you
far more than I was willing to admit… and I tried… to stop those feelings
from consuming me. I can do it no longer."

 Siddhir moved forward and kissed him. 

"Nor would I want you to," he whispered, gazing deeply into Haldir's grey
eyes after the kiss was over.

"How is our patient today, Haldir?" the healer asked, as he sauntered into
the room. "Ah! I see your unconventional procedure worked quite well on him."

Haldir smiled and nodded.

"I have released Lord Elrond and Erestor. They were well enough, and by
Iluvatar, they are *dreadful* patients."

Haldir and Siddhir laughed.

"Anendel is not much better. I will go and look in on him and Tinion now. I
trust you will look after this one? I sense you have taken a special interest
in him," he winked.

Haldir grinned. "I will."

"Very well, then. I shall leave you now. It is nice to have you back,
Siddhir."

"It is nice to *be* back," Siddhir answered.

The healer nodded and left the room. Haldir released Siddhir's hand and
stood, then went about checking his wounds. He un-wrapped the bandage on his
arm and smiled. The wound was almost non-existent. He cleaned it, rubbed a
salve on it anyway and re-wrapped it.

"Now let us see about your leg," Haldir murmured.

Siddhir winced as the bandage came off, but did not utter a sound. Haldir
smiled. "You are as hearty as Tinion, *melamin.* [my love] Your wound is
worthy of outward discomfort. You need not hide it for me."

"Worry not, my healer. When the pain warrants it- I will certainly let you
know," Siddhir assured him pleasantly.

Haldir chuckled, and then kneeled down to look more closely at the wound in
Siddhir's thigh. The blackening was still there, but it had faded
considerably. He turned and looked at him.

"It is much, much better *lirimaer,* [lovely one] but I am afraid I will
still have to take out the herbs, clean it, and start anew."
Siddhir took a deep breath. "Do what you must; just know that I will not be
throwing *this* leg over your shoulders any time soon."

"That is quite all right, *mir nin.* [my treasure] One leg will suffice."

Siddhir rolled his eyes, but he smiled.

Haldir snickered, and stood to caress his cheek. "*'Uuma dela, nin bain.*
[Don't worry my beauty] My skills in *that* area are even more renowned.
There are several ways that I can bestow upon you the pleasure you deserve
quite comfortably, I assure you." 

************************

"How lovely to see you up and about so soon, Elrond," Galadriel welcomed him
as he strolled in with Celeborn.

Elrond smiled, and seated himself on the divan. "I too was surprised, but I
feel *remarkably* well. Your healer is quite talented, my Lady."

"That he is," Celeborn agreed.

Galadriel poured a cup of tea and handed it to Elrond. "Our Haldir has
learned much from you as well. He was a valuable asset in the healing
talans."

Elrond grinned, nodding as he turned the cup towards his lips. "So I have
heard."

Celeborn sighed heavily. "Although our journey ended up being somewhat
perilous, all is well between the three realms. Thranduil will not be lost to
us again."

"That knowledge alone was worth our misfortune. We must not ever be divided
amongst ourselves. There are times ahead that will no doubt call for our
combined unity and strength," Elrond remarked.

"Never has a truer word been spoken," Celeborn agreed. "We must all band
together and face any darkness hurled upon us head on. Now let us discuss the
possible reasons why they have suddenly and specifically targeted those of
you who can *See."* He stood. "Elrond, my friend-would you care for a little
wine in that tea?"

********************

"There, all done. "Twas not so bad, was it?" Haldir asked after binding
Siddhir's leg.

Siddhir exhaled. "I suppose it could always be worse."

Haldir smiled. "That is true. You should see how many stitches Tinion had to
endure."

Siddhir winced. "Is he all right?"

"I am happy to say that even through the severity of his wounds, he is his
normal charming self; as are you, I might add."

"That is good to hear. I like Tinion. He is quite entertaining."

Haldir smiled. "That he is. Now, I should leave you to rest. I will first
check on Tinion and then return to my talan. I am dreadfully in need of a
bath, and I have not seen Oro and Ru since we were attacked."

"I am sure they miss you terribly," Siddhir remarked.

"I miss them as well, but I know they are safe with our Lord and Lady,"
Haldir replied, leaning over to kiss him. "Sleep now. I will be back later."

Siddhir gazed at him with tired eyes. "*Lle vesta?*" [do you promise]

Haldir caressed his cheek. "The Dark Lord himself could not keep me away."

Siddhir breathed a sigh of contentment and closed his eyes. It was not long
before sleep took him.

Satisfied, Haldir smiled and gazed upon him a while longer, then quietly left
the room.

************

"All right, you have convinced me, Anendel. You need not whine anymore. I am
releasing you from these rooms, but I still want you to rest for at least a
couple of more days. As long as you rest, you can do so just as well in your
talan," the healer stated.

Anendel smiled brightly. "*Hannon lle."* [thank you]

"*Another* reprieve?" Haldir chuckled, as he entered the room. "I suppose my
services will not be needed much longer. *Mae Govannen,*[well met] Anendel."

"*Mae Govannen,* Haldir. Many thanks for your assistance in my absence,"
Anendel replied.

"I am glad to be able to help," Haldir answered.

The healer smiled and turned to him. "I am releasing Anendel, but I still
want him to rest in his talan for a bit. Tinion and Siddhir however, must
stay here awhile longer; if you could just assist for a couple of more days?
Now that Anendel is leaving, I would like to move Tinion to the other
structure in the room next to Siddhir."

"Certainly," Haldir replied. "I will check on him now, whilst you finish with
Anendel."
The healer nodded, and Haldir left. He entered Tinion's room to find the
platinum-haired elf sleeping. He moved quietly to the bed and placed his palm
across his forehead. It was cool.
Satisfied, he carefully peeled back the bandages and examined the extensively
stitched wound. It needed to be cleaned again.

He turned to the table in the room, retrieved a strip of white cloth,
immersed it in a basin of warm water and set about his task. 

"One would think you would wait until I am at least *semi*-conscious so I
could enjoy it before you started caressing me so," Tinion remarked, opening
his eyes.

Haldir laughed. "If you think *this* a caress, you have either received a
head wound we have missed, or you have forgotten our times together,
*meldir."* [friend]

"Do… not- make … me …laugh," Tinion chuckled. "I can feel the stitches…
tightening… when I do."

"Forgive me. How are you feeling this morn?" Haldir asked.

"Better than yesterday, but I suppose you will not release me at any rate,"
Tinion quipped.

"Ah! No head wound indeed! We will move you over next to Siddhir shortly.
Both of you need to stay at least a couple more days."

Tinion groaned. "To our great misfortune; how is he doing?"

Haldir placed the damp cloth back in the basin, and took up the salve to
cover the wound. "Better, but only about as well as you."

"Did he receive your stitching as well?"

"No, what he received was a poisoned arrow clean through his thigh," Haldir
answered.

 "Nasty business there," Tinion frowned.

"That is certain," Haldir answered, carefully covering the wound again. 

The healer entered the room. "Anendel has left. Are we ready now to move him,
Haldir? I have prepared the space he is to occupy."

"Yes, I have finished tending to him. We are ready."

"I can walk, you know. There is nothing wrong with my legs," Tinion cut in.

The healer considered him. "Very well, we will allow you to walk- *with* our
assistance of course."
Tinion exhaled. "Of course." 

Haldir laughed.

Haldir and the healer carefully helped Tinion up from the bed, and he placed
an arm about each of their shoulders. It was a slow and tedious walk for
Tinion, who wanted to move faster- but they would not allow it. 

Finally, they entered the adjoining set of healing rooms and made their way
to the one reserved for Tinion, and helped him back to bed.

"Now you will at least have company, but I want you to rest now- as he is,"
Haldir announced.

Tinion yawned. "As much as I would like to, I fear I cannot argue- for that
walk has taken more out of me than I thought."

Haldir winked at him. "You would not be the victor in any event. *Quel esta,
meldir."* [Rest well, my friend]

Tinion closed his eyes. The healer turned to Haldir.

"Go and get some rest yourself, Haldir. I am well aware that you have been
here all night, and in doing so you have allowed me to rest. It is now your
turn. I will clean the other rooms, and look after Siddhir and Tinion. If
there is any change, I will send word. Now, off with you."

Haldir sm
will return later."

The healer tapped him on the shoulder as he left. Before exiting, he peeked
into Siddhir's room and found him still sleeping. Smiling, he left the talan
and headed for home.
NINETEEN



Melpomaen watched quietly from behind a nearby Mallorn as Haldir bathed in
the river. Had he misjudged him? he thought. It was hard to decipher the elf
from the tales he had heard from the one he had bore witness to lately.
Perhaps the rumours were indeed untrue.

Melpomaen's eyes were immediately drawn to Haldir's elfhood when he exited
the river. He inhaled sharply as he watched him dry off and get dressed. It
was *blatantly* obvious *that* part of the rumour had not been prone to
exaggeration. The silver-haired elf bore a well-defined physique; broad
chest, narrow waist, supported by long, strong muscular limbs very close in
resemblance to that of a finely chiselled marble sculpture. It was hard to
believe he had not long ago been engaged in the same battle that had left
wounded so many others, for there was not a scratch upon him.

"Is there something I can do for you, Melpomaen? Or is it your habit to watch
others as they bathe?" Haldir called amicably.

His cover lost, Melpomaen guiltily stepped out from behind the Mallorn. "Nay,
I-I was just passing by. I was not my intention to disturb you."

"I would wager," Haldir mumbled softly.

"Sorry?"

Haldir smiled pleasantly. "I said; no matter. I was leaving anyway. Have a
good day, Melpomaen."

The dark elf watched in open-mouthed wonder when Haldir gathered his
belongings from the grass, and strode slowly away without once looking back.

********************

"Is my brother all right?" Orophin asked with wide eyes as he gazed upon
Galadriel feeding Rumil.

"Haldir is well. *Uuma dela, nin ion,"* [don't worry, my son] Galadriel
answered.

"He has not come to check on us. That is not like him, my Lady," Orophin
continued.

Galadriel wiped Rumil's mouth and turned to him, caressing a cheek on his
worried face. "I would never lie to you *pen-neth,* [young one] and
especially about your brother- for I know well how you feel about him. He is
fine. He has been helping to assist the healer with many who were wounded in
battle. I am certain he will be by to see you both shortly."

"Was Siddhir hurt in battle?" Orophin whispered. Rumil turned to look at him
at the mention of Siddhir's name.

Galadriel pulled him close for a hug. "Yes, I am afraid Siddhir was hurt.
But, he will be quite well given time."

Orophin looked up at her with wide blue eyes after she released him. "He will
not die?" his voice trembled.

Rumil started to cry.

"Oh, *pen-pigen*… [tiny one] do not weep," Galadriel cooed, picking him up
and holding him on her lap. 

Rumil reached out a small hand to Orophin. "Oh…"

"No, Oro. He will not die. He just needs time to heal. He will be up and
around real soon, I promise. Please relax, Rumil is upset now because he
senses you are upset," Galadriel warned.

"Forgive me, my Lady. I like Siddhir. He was very nice to us, and my brother
is happy when he is around. Even Rumil likes him," Orophin reasoned.

Galadriel smiled, and kissed him on the cheek. "You need not explain, *pen-
neth,* [young one] of course I forgive you. Now, let your brother see you
smile."

Orophin grinned and tickled Rumil's foot. The elfling immediately started to
laugh.

"That is much better," Galadriel complimented him. "Would you like to go
outside for a while?"

"Yes, my Lady," Orophin replied.

"Very well, then. Let us just clean Rumil up a bit and we will be off."

********************

Haldir pulled on a navy blue tunic and leggings being that he was off duty,
and began to straighten up the talan. He smiled when he picked up one of
Rumil's favourite toys; a rather homely looking dragon that was made and
given to him by Orolonn's wife, Aranel. He placed it in the small trunk that
contained Rumil's other things.

On the bed was the game Siddhir had given Orophin on his begetting day. He
wondered briefly why it was there, open and ready to play. Perhaps he had
expected him to return that night and finish their game- or perhaps he was
trying to teach Rumil. The latter thought made him chuckle. He picked up the
game and all of its pieces and put it where Orophin's belongings were kept.

He could tell Orophin had put away the food, because there were small
remnants scattered across the floor. He gathered first his brothers' clothing
that was strewn about, then retrieved the broom and swept both rooms clean.
After that, he made the bed once he was satisfied that there was no food
there as well. Content that the talan was neat after looking around, he put
away the broom and left.

He realized that he was still a tad weary as he strolled along the narrow
path to Caras Galadon, but he wanted to see his brothers first before napping
and returning to the healer's talans later that afternoon. It was not a long
walk, for his talan was not situated far from where the Lord and Lady
dwelled. Soon he could see the grandest Mallorn in all of Lothlorien looming
straight ahead.

As he drew closer he saw Lady Galadriel playing with his brothers on the
grass below her talan. Several sentinels watched them from not far away.
Rumil kicked a large red ball back to Orophin, and in doing so, spotted
Haldir first. He took off running towards him, with Orophin close behind.

"Da-dir!" the toddler yelled, running as fast as his small legs would carry
him.

Haldir laughed at the sight and stopped walking, bracing himself for what he
knew was about to come. He kneeled and stretched out his arms. Orophin had
caught up and they reached him at the same time. He snaked each arm about
them both as they all tumbled to the ground in a heap from the force of
contact.

"We missed you, brother!" Orophin cried out, as Rumil burst into a fit of
giggles.

Behind them Galadriel stood watching with the sentinels, a wide grin on her
fair face.

"So I see!" Haldir chuckled, as he rolled around in the grass with them,
tickling them both when he could get the chance, because they were tickling
him. After a time, they were all short of breath, and Haldir held them both
down in the grass so they couldn't move.

"You have battered me enough you two, so up with you now," Haldir laughed.

"We cannot move," Orophin chortled, struggling under Haldir's grasp.

Haldir smiled, and released them as he rose. "Sorry, I forgot."

Orophin got up laughing and pulled Rumil up with him. Haldir reached down and
lifted the toddler from the ground, kissed him, and then took Orophin's hand.

"Let us go and thank Lady Galadriel for looking after you."

They strolled back to where Galadriel waited. Haldir bowed before her after
putting Rumil down. The child ran off to get the ball he was playing with
earlier and Orophin followed. Haldir and Galadriel turned to watch them.
Galadriel smiled.
"It is amazing how much energy they possess."

Haldir laughed. "I hope they did not drive you mad, my Lady."

"They are perfectly calm with me. It is you that makes them so," Galadriel
chuckled.

"Ah! Woe is me then," Haldir chuckled.

Galadriel's sapphire eyes sparkled when she looked at him. "The love you
share with them moves me so. Never have I seen siblings so close. You have
done well with them, Haldir. You should be very proud."

"*Hannon lle, Arwenamin,"* [thank you, my Lady] I am."

"So, how fare Siddhir and Tinion?" she asked.

"They are coming along, my Lady. A couple more days rest is necessary
though."

"Whatever they need," Galadriel replied, smiling as she paused to watch Rumil
kick the ball back to Orophin. "I think I will stop by this evening and see
them. Tell me, have you slept at all, Haldir?"

Haldir nodded. "Yes, my Lady."

Galadriel's brow furrowed. "Is that so? How much sleep have you had?"

"Mayhap an hour," Haldir admitted.

"I think you should get more rest. Are you due back at the healer's talans
this evening?"

"Yes, my Lady. I have offered him my assistance until Anendel is able to
return."

"Orophin is concerned about Siddhir," Galadriel remarked.

Haldir nodded. "He likes him very much. They both do."

Galadriel's eyes sparkled. "And you as well?"

Haldir's cheeks flushed crimson. "I know not what you mean, my Lady."

Galadriel's sweet laughter echoed across the glade. "Very well, *nin ion.*
[my son] I will leave you to your privacy." she winked.

Haldir grinned. "*Hannon lle, Arwenamin."*  [thank you, my Lady]

"Will you return to your talan after your duties with the healer?" Galadriel
inquired.

"Yes, unless there is an emergency. But both Siddhir and Tinion were doing
much better when I left earlier, so I doubt that staying as I did last eve
will be necessary," Haldir answered.

"Then I want you to retire to your talan now and rest until you have to
report. I will keep the children with me, and I will meet you there with them
later. You can take them home then. Agreed?"

Haldir smiled. "Agreed."

Galadriel turned towards where Orophin and Rumil were playing. "Children,
come and say good-bye to your brother."

"I thought you came for us. We are not going with you?" Orophin asked,
puzzled, when they drew near.

 Haldir kneeled down to look Orophin in the eyes. "We will be together
tonight Oro, I promise. I am weary now, and Lady Galadriel wants to watch you
whilst I rest. When I wake, I will go to the healer's talans and look after
Siddhir and Tinion for a time. Lady Galadriel will bring you to me there and
we will go home together. *Lle rangwa amin?"* [do you understand me]

Orophin nodded solemnly.

Galadriel looked down at him. "Do you not like visiting with me, Orophin?"

"Yes, my Lady," Orophin replied sombrely, looking up at her. Beside him,
Rumil started to pout.

Haldir picked the elfling up. "*Mani marte, pen-pigen?"* [what happened, tiny
one?]

"I have noticed that when Orophin is sad, Rumil becomes sad too," Galadriel
informed him, looking at Orophin, whose eyes widened with realization.

"I am sorry, Ru. It is all right. Don't be sad," Orophin whispered to Rumil.

"Oh," the child murmured, reaching out his arms to him. Orophin took him from
Haldir and hugged him.

"Come, Ru. *Aphado nin!* [follow me] he placed the elfling on the ground, and
ran back towards the large red ball.

Rumil glanced at Haldir, who smiled at him, then took off running after
Orophin, giggling as he went.

 "They will be fine now," Galadriel assured him. "You go and rest."

Haldir bowed.* "Hannon lle, Arwenamin."* [thank you, my Lady] He took a last
look at his brothers, then turned and left. 
Galadriel sent one of the sentinels to retrieve some sweet bread, and then
strolled back across the grass to join the playing siblings.

********************

Nearly four hours later Haldir awakened with a start. He rose fast from the
bed and looked out of the talan window. He had slept far longer than he had
intended to, for dusk had fallen over Lothlorien.

He gathered what he needed and quickly left, sprinting all the way until he
reached the healer's talans. He found the healer outside, emptying a basin of
water. Haldir ran up to him.

"Forgive me. I overslept," he apologized.

The healer smiled, and placed a calm hand on his shoulder. "'Tis quite all
right, Haldir. Worry not. I know you had to be exhausted, and besides, our
patients are doing rather well. They are awake and have company, in fact."

"Is that so?"

The healer grinned. "Our Lord and Lady are here with your brothers."

Haldir slapped himself on the forehead. "I had forgotten."

"All is well, Captain. Go now and see them."

"*Hannon lle,"* [thank you] Haldir replied.

Together they went inside. As they neared the rooms at the end, Haldir saw
Rumil run from Siddhir's room to Tinion's. He slipped into Tinion's room
while the healer went to Siddhir's.
Galadriel was inside as well and was now holding Rumil's hand. He turned and
saw Haldir, broke away, and ran to him.

"Da!"

Haldir swept the elfling off his feet, gave him a kiss and set him back down,
bowing to Galadriel.

"Forgive me, my Lady, I- "

Galadriel held up her hand, silencing him. "There is no need for an
explanation, Haldir. We have been having a perfectly lovely time with Tinion,
Siddhir and the children."

Haldir nodded to her in thanks, and turned to Tinion.

"You *are* looking quite well, Tinion," Haldir remarked, noting that the
colour had returned fully to the sentinel's face.
"I am well enough to leave this place forthwith, I'd say," Tinion chuckled.

"Tomorrow, and not a minute before," Haldir replied, sternly.

"Spoilsport," Tinion retorted.

Haldir moved closer to him, and carefully lifted his bandages to examine the
wound underneath. "Your wound has been cleaned and your bandages changed, I
see. It seems you did not need me this night at all."

"I need you to *release* me. The healer says I cannot leave until you do,"
Tinion answered.

Haldir laughed. "Well, we know when *that* will be, do we not?"

Tinion frowned. "Elves are so stubborn."

Haldir winked at him. "You of all people should know, Tinion. I will return.
I want to check in on Siddhir." He looked around. "Where is Rumil?"

"He went back to Siddhir's room," Galadriel replied, having seen the toddler
leave.

Haldir sighed. "He gets about so fast sometimes. I will return."

He left and entered Siddhir's room. He bowed to Celeborn, who was seated next
to Orophin, holding a giggling Rumil in his lap.

"Your patients are doing quite well, Haldir. Much is to be said about your
healing techniques," Celeborn commented.

Haldir nodded. "*Hannon lle, Heruamin."* [thank you, my Lord.]

He walked over to Siddhir and noticed the absence of the bandage on his arm.
The wound there had healed completely. Smiling, he checked the one on his
thigh, noting again that the wound had been cleaned and dressed, as Tinion's
had been, and was healing well. The black that had surrounded it previously
had all but disappeared.

He looked into Siddhir's dark eyes. "You too are doing quite well."

"Well enough to leave *now?"* Siddhir asked with a sly grin.

Haldir frowned. "You are as bad as Tinion. We said two days, and two days it
shall be."

Siddhir groaned. "Tinion is right. You *are* a spoilsport."

"Be that as it may, it is my decision still," Haldir stated matter of factly.

"Haldir, you are always so tightly wound. You need to relax some," Siddhir
remarked. "Is that not right, my Lord?"

Celeborn laughed, and he bounced Rumil up and down on his lap. "Mayhap that
is his way, Siddhir."

"My brother is fun sometimes," Orophin offered, moving to stand by Siddhir's
bedside.

Haldir raised an eyebrow. "*Sometimes?* I beg to differ, *pen-neth.* [young
one] I feel I am fun *most* times. But there is a time to be serious as
well."

Siddhir pulled Orophin close to whisper something in his ear. The boy's face
contorted into a wide grin, and he burst into laughter.

"That will be our secret," Siddhir told him.

Haldir concealed an urge to smile. "Do not try and coerce Oro into anything
either, devious one- because it will not work."

Celeborn stood and shifted Rumil in his arms. "The hour grows late. I will
see Tinion once more and then we will be leaving. I am pleased to see you so
well on the mend, Siddhir."

"*Hannon lle, Heruamin,"* Siddhir replied.

"I will go with you, my Lord," Orophin remarked, and left with him and Rumil,
leaving Haldir and Siddhir alone in the room.

"How are you feeling?" Haldir asked.

Siddhir smiled. "I truly feel as if I could leave here tonight."

Haldir pulled Celeborn's vacated chair by his bedside. "I believe you, but we
will just make sure. Humour me, all right?"

Siddhir laughed. "You say that like I have a choice."

Haldir grinned mischievously. "Well, I had to let you *think* you had some
say at least."

"I am glad you got some rest. You look so much better now," Siddhir remarked,
changing the subject.

Haldir sighed. "I suppose I needed it."

"And what a vision you have become for it too," Siddhir remarked.

Haldir smiled. "You fool with me."
Siddhir reached out a hand and caressed his cheek. "'Tis naught but truth I
speak. I greatly miss being with you."

Haldir closed his eyes. "As do I."

"I was pleased to get to see your brothers. I have missed them."

"They missed you too," Haldir replied.

"That will happen no longer. I intend to be there for them."

Siddhir smiled as Orophin entered the room with Rumil. He glanced at the
toddler and looked back at Haldir. "'Tis been a long day, and they are tired.
You should go now as well."

Haldir lifted Rumil in his arms, and Siddhir gently squeezed the elflings
hand. Rumil grinned.

"I think you are right. Notice how much quieter he is now? That is a sure
sign," Haldir commented.

"Good night, Siddhir. I am very glad you are feeling better," Orophin said.

"Good night, Oro. You sleep well, and take care of your brothers. Remember
what I told you," Siddhir reminded him.

Orophin smiled. "I remember."

Haldir leaned forward and kissed Siddhir. Orophin and Rumil giggled.

"*Quel esta, melamin," *[rest well, my love] Haldir whispered.

"And you," Siddhir returned.

"I will see you tomorrow. Come, Oro. We are going home now," Haldir stated.

Orophin took Haldir's hand. "Bye, Siddhir. See you soon."

Siddhir smiled and waved as they left the room.

They waved at Tinion also as they passed his room, and said good night to the
healer on their way out of the talan. Outside, Lorien was dark save for the
scattered lanterns that dimly lit the narrow trails. They strolled quietly
along them until they reached home. Rumil was already asleep in Haldir's
arms.

"Oro, please pull back the sheets for me," Haldir asked, as he shifted Rumil
into a position to lay him down. He then placed him on the bed and carefully
removed his clothes. Orophin gathered Rumil's sleepwear and handed it to
Haldir, who put it on the elfling without rousing him. Then he moved him to
the middle of the bed.

Haldir smiled as he dressed for bed and watched Orophin as he did the same.
Usually, Oro was the last one wanting to go to sleep, but it was apparent
that he too was exhausted. He climbed into bed next to Rumil without even
being prompted.

Haldir strolled to Oro's side of the bed and kissed him. "*Quel du, pen-
neth."* [good night, young one]

"*Quel du,"* Orophin whispered, turning on his side to face Rumil.

Haldir smiled, then walked to the other side of the bed and climbed in. He
kissed Rumil lightly on the forehead, and settled in on his side watching
them both. Orophin drifted off quickly, and in not much more time, he did as
well.
TWENTY



A week later, Elviondel opened the talan door to find Haldir on the other
side. He smiled and bowed.

"*Quel re,* [good day] Haldir."

"*Quel re,* Elviondel. I am looking for Siddhir. Is he here?"

Elviondel smiled. "He is. Come in and make yourself comfortable. I was just
leaving."

"*Hannon lle,* [thank you] Haldir replied, entering the talan. Elviondel left
and closed the door behind him. Siddhir was sitting up in bed watching him
with narrow eyes.

Haldir grinned. "You are angry with me, I can tell."

"I am glad you find that amusing, but I assure you, I am *far* from amused,"
Siddhir retorted.

"That is quite evident, *melamin.* [my love] May I come in?"

"Do what you will," Siddhir snapped.

Haldir winced. "Valar, if words and an expression were weapons, I would have
died a thousand times upon entering this dwelling."

Siddhir did not reply, but merely sat there and glared.

Haldir sat beside him on the bed. "All right, I understand that you are angry
with me, and perhaps even deservedly so- but can you not forgive me? You have
to know that I was only looking after your well being."

"To release me from the healer's talan and then have me confined yet again to
my own talan is looking after me? I fail to see how. I abhor being deceived,
Haldir."

Haldir frowned. "I did *not* try to deceive you. True, you healed remarkably
well- but you *still* needed to *rest.* To walk on that leg so soon would not
have been practical. Come now, surely you know that as well as I."

"Tell me, did you confine Tinion to his talan also?"

"Yes, and he was just as disagreeable about it as you."

Siddhir was quiet for a moment. "When will I be able to return to duty? That
is all I want to know."

Haldir sighed. "Tomorrow, that is why I am here."

Siddhir smiled. "Is that the *only* reason you are here?"

Haldir blinked at Siddhir's sudden change of demeanor.

"Will you not answer me?"

"No, it is not the only reason," Haldir replied quietly.

"I am glad to hear that," Siddhir chuckled. Suddenly he grabbed Haldir,
pulled him down on the bed and kissed him.

When the kiss was over, Haldir stared wide-eyed at the grinning blond elf
above him. Siddhir burst into light laughter.

"You think me mad- I can tell."

"No, I just- "

"I have missed you terribly, and it is my wish to have you. Now," Siddhir
interjected.

"What about Elviondel? Surely he will return," Haldir questioned.

Siddhir started pulling at the lacings on Haldir's tunic. "Elviondel knows
better, so worry not about him.*Im anira lle."* [I desire you]

Haldir helped Siddhir rid him of his clothing and slipped into bed with him,
pleasantly surprised to find that his love was completely undressed under the
crisp white sheets. He pulled him into a firm embrace and kissed him deeply,
while moving his hands over every part of him that he could reach.

Hearing Siddhir's moans of pleasure grow louder with each caress, and knowing
his proclivity towards haste in the matter of coupling, Haldir quickly
shifted so that he was above him. Not breaking their kiss, he maneuvered
himself between his lover's legs and broke the kiss only to help him position
his legs over his shoulders the way he liked.

"No," Siddhir murmured, breathlessly.

Haldir stopped, puzzled. "*No?*

"No," Siddhir repeated, his eyes even darker than normal with passion.

Haldir exhaled slowly to catch his breath and hold his patience. "*Please*
tell me you are fooling with me. You cannot kiss me like *that* and then tell
me no, Siddhir."

Siddhir smiled wickedly. "Of course I can- but, I would never do that to you,
*melamin.* [my love] I have merely decided that I wish to partake of your
protocol this time. I find consistency a tad redundant."

Haldir blinked, and then his lips spread into a wide grin. "You are quite the
trickster, *nin bain.* [my beauty] You are fortunate that I care deeply for
you, lest I would punish you severely for your fickleness."

Siddhir grinned, and spread his arms out wide. "Punish me, *lirimaer.*
[lovely one] I dare you."

He broke into laughter when Haldir swiftly rolled him over and slapped him on
the rear.

********************

Glorfindel, Erestor, Melpomaen and Anarin watched from their horses a few
feet away as Elrond lingered, speaking with Celeborn and Galadriel, who had
come out into the wood to see them off. It was a bright, clear day, and warm
enough for them not to have to wear their riding cloaks. Birds chirped nosily
as they flew to and fro across the great expanse of vivid blue overhead.

"May your journey back to Imladris be as safe as always," Celeborn said.

Elrond smiled. "The passage to my lands has been made safe because of the
Galadhrim of Lorien, for which I am eternally grateful. Never has a vile
beast ever set foot in Rivendell."

"And they never will as long as they have to pass us first," Celeborn
chuckled.

"I shall have to plan for a gathering in Rivendell soon. We could all use the
break," Elrond remarked.

"That would be lovely," Galadriel commented.

"Absolutely," Celeborn agreed.

Elrond nodded. "Well, I should be going. Many thanks for your hospitality, as
always."

Celeborn and Galadriel waved as Elrond and his party rode off, then strolled
hand in hand back through the golden wood towards Caras Galadon.

"It is a lovely day, is it not, *A'maelamin?"* [my beloved] Galadriel
commented.

Celeborn smiled. "Never has a truer word been spoken.‘Tis a great day to be
alive."

"I quite agree, and I am happy to report no bad tidings from the mirror."

"Well, I am certainly glad to hear *that,"* Celeborn chuckled.

Galadriel laughed. They continued on, nodding to several sentinels as they
passed, enjoying the enchanting beauty of their golden wood. Behind them,
Nilfalath and Anyriand followed from a safe distance.

"We are near Tinion's talan. Haldir has informed me that he has released him
and Siddhir for duty on the morrow. I would like to stop in and see them both
before returning to Caras Galadon," Celeborn informed her.

"Very well," Galadriel answered. "I will leave the visiting of our warriors
to you. I would much like to visit Aranel and look in on the children."

"That is fine," Celeborn replied. He turned to the sentinels strolling behind
them. "Anyriand, you will escort Lady Galadriel to Orolonn and Aranel's
talan. Nilfalath, you will stay with me. I wish to visit Tinion."

Both sentinels nodded. When they reached Tinion's talan, Celeborn turned to
Galadriel and kissed her. "Have a lovely visit. Will you be bringing the
children to Caras Galadon?"

"Yes. I would like to spend some time with them. They are growing so fast, I
wish to cherish these younger years, for they are far too short," Galadriel
explained.

Celeborn smiled. "I will join you soon."

They parted, with Anyriand escourting Galadriel as Celeborn and Nilfalath
climbed the ladder to Tinion's talan and knocked on the door.

********************

Siddhir moaned loudly as Haldir's lips and tongue moved slowly across the
sensitive tips of his ears and then down to the hollow of his neck. Haldir
smiled inwardly at the sounds his ministrations were already evoking, because
he had only just begun to administer the pleasure he wished to bestow upon
him. 

As he proceeded down his chest to his nipples, he could feel his love shiver.
Siddhir's hands found the hair at the back of his head and held on. He
skilfully used his tongue, teeth and fingers on those nipples until Siddhir's
heavy breathing told him he should move on, because he was quite certain now
that Siddhir would not be able to hold out long enough for him to finish what
he had in store for him.

Haldir released the hold he had on one nipple with his teeth, and slowly made
a trail with his tongue down his chest, belly and straight into his navel.
Siddhir's body lurched involuntarily upward.

"Elbereth!" he cried out.

"Sensitive spot, eh?" Haldir murmured against his belly.

"By the grace of Iluvatar, take me *now*, Haldir. Please," Siddhir whispered,
every nerve ending in his body tingling with aching passion.

Haldir smiled, and gently removed Siddhir's hands from his hair and placed
them at his sides, holding them fast. "But I have only just begun, *mir nin.*
[my treasure] I am only doing what you bade me to."

"*N'uma ner.* [No more] It-it… is torture. I-I need to be with you now,"
Siddhir stammered.

"Soon, *melamin,*[my love] Haldir whispered, resuming the use of his skilful
tongue as he moved it lightly across the inside of Siddhir's thigh. This
elicited another cry of passion from Siddhir, but before he could recover,
Haldir quickly moved and enveloped Siddhir's straining elfhood within his
mouth.

"*AIYA!*" [oh!] Siddhir cried, his body rising again against his will.

Haldir moved with him as his lover's body began to tremble with unspent
passion. It was becoming more and more difficult to hold his arms down.
Siddhir was on the brink, and he knew he could take no more.

Before he could rise, Siddhir broke free of his grasp and grabbed his head,
pulling him away from his center. "*N'UMA NER! SEDHO!"* [No more, be still]

Haldir grinned as he raised his head and sat above him, "*Manka lle merna"*
[if you wish]

"Toy with me no more and take me now!"

Haldir smiled, and leaned over to reach his tunic on the floor to retrieve
the oil, but Siddhir grabbed his arm. He had a look on his face that he could
not quite decipher- but his flushed skin, and dark eyes blazing like hot
coals made him appear even more alluring if that was at all possible.

*"NOW!"*

He denied him no longer. As swiftly as the situation called upon, he raised
Siddhir's legs over his shoulders, found his opening and thrust into him with
one swift, fluid motion.

********************

"*Quel re, Heruamin,*"[good day, my Lord] Elviondel greeted, when he came
across Celeborn and Nilfalath upon the road.

"*Quel re,* Elviondel," Celeborn returned. "Tell me, Is Siddhir awake? I am
heading to your talan for a visit. I was told he is to return to duty
tomorrow."

"Yes, my Lord. He is awake," the sentinel answered quickly. Then his eyes
grew wide with realization. "Did-did you say you were going to see him? Now?"

Celeborn looked at him curiously. "Yes. Is that a problem?"

"No-no, my Lord. Forgive me, I am a bit unsteady this day."

Celeborn chuckled. "Perhaps you need sustenance, sentinel."

"I am sure. Thank you, my Lord."

"Very well, we shall be on our way then," Celeborn replied. "*Namarie."*
[farewell]

"*Namarie,"* Elviondel replied.

Celeborn turned away resumed walking with Nilfalath. Something made Nilfalath
turn back and glance at Elviondel, who was waving his arms and silently
mouthing words to him he could not quite understand.

********************

"Valar! Haldir!"  

Haldir continued to thrust in and out of him with a slow but steady rhythm,
watching his love through slit eyes as he fought to keep himself in control.
The tight, warm feel of Siddhir's body encased around him like a tightly
fitted glove and his vocalizations combined were about to undo him, but he
could not allow that to happen until the beautiful blond elf beneath him was
as near to ecstasy as he was.

Siddhir suddenly groaned and the muscles inside him contracted against him,
and Haldir knew the time was at hand. Quickly, he leaned over and kissed him,
then grasped Siddhir's elfhood and stroked it in time with his quickening
thrusts.

"*AIYA!* HALDIR!" Siddhir cried out again- just as a knock fell hard upon the
door.

********************

Standing behind him, Nilfalath's eyes grew wide and his mouth dropped open
with realization. He knew now what Elviondel had tried to tell him at the
sound of Siddhir's cries from the other side of the door.

Celeborn turned to him with a knowing grin. "Do you think mayhap I should
knock again?"

Nilfalath's shocked face turned a deep shade of crimson. "I-I know not, my
Lord."

Celeborn laughed sinisterly. "Siddhir *obviously* is feeling *quite* well, so
I think I would like to have a little fun with them."

Nilfalath blinked, and then smiled.  "As you wish, my Lord."

Celeborn put a finger to his lips. "We will give them just a few more
minutes. Somehow I think that's all they will need."

Nilfalath quickly covered his mouth to stop from laughing.
*********************

"Someone is out there," Haldir whispered, slowing his thrusts.

"I care not! *Le daro!* [don't stop] Siddhir snapped, pulling him close and
pushing his own body upward.

Haldir quickened the pace again. Like Siddhir, he was too far gone to stop at
this point. He would just have to take his chances that the knock on the door
wasn't trouble. It didn't take long for them both to find sweet completion.
Haldir quickly covered Siddhir's mouth with a deep kiss to help ward off the
volume of his cries.

**********************

"I think it is time," Celeborn chuckled, turning to rap loudly on the door
again.

"Who is there?" Siddhir's shaky voice called out from the other side.

"Celeborn," the Lord responded loudly, turning to wink at Nilfalath.

Loud noises reverberated from the other side of the door. Celeborn chuckled
softly, because he knew they were scrambling to get decent. He tapped
Nilfalath on the shoulder.

"Should I go away then, Siddhir?" Celeborn called out.

"No! No, my Lord. I am presentable now. Please come in," Siddhir replied.

Celeborn readied his stoic demeanor and opened the door. He turned then to
Nilfalath. Tears streaked the sentinel's face, and he was waving him forward
with one hand while holding back his laughter with the other. Celeborn winked
and entered Siddhir's talan alone.

He was amused to find Siddhir sitting up in bed, with Haldir nowhere to be
seen. He pulled up a chair beside the bed and sat down.

"You are looking *quite* well, Siddhir. How are you feeling today?"

"I feel extremely well, my Lord. I am very anxious to return to my duties,"
Siddhir replied, with an uneasy smile. He was trying to read him, but as
usual- his gift failed him whenever he deliberately tried to call it forth.

Celeborn smiled. "I am glad to hear that. Is there anything Lady Galadriel or
myself can do for you?"

"Nay, my Lord. I have no need of anything," Siddhir answered.

Celeborn chuckled and stood. "Well, not *anymore* anyway."

Siddhir's features contorted with bewilderment. "My Lord?"

Celeborn gazed towards the adjoining room. "You may come out now, *nin ion.*
[my son] I was just leaving."

As Haldir slowly walked out of the room ashen faced, Celeborn nodded to
Siddhir. "Bright and early, sentinel."

"Yes-yes, my Lord," Siddhir stammered.

Celeborn turned on his heel, strolled to the door and opened it to the sound
of  Nilfalath's unleashed and irrepressible laughter, leaving both Siddhir
and Haldir stunned in his wake as he stepped through it and closed it gently
behind him.

tbc...