Title: Take My Hand
By Noelwing
E-mail; noelwing@aol.com
Paring: Legolas/Haldir
Rating: PG-13 (eventual R)
Summary:  Haldir is supposed to escort Legolas back to his home in 
Mirkwood but it turns out to be a trip that will change their lives forever.
Genre: AU/ Unrequited love
Warnings: Angst/ (eventual) rape WIP
Author’s notes: /words/ denotes thought: I would like to dedicate this fic 
to my two good friends night_angel_15 and Arwenundomiel726, without 
which I might never write. Thank you plenty my friends.  
 Disclaimer: Middle-earth and all characters therein are the property of 
J.R.R. Tolkien and are only being borrowed for the purposes of this fic. 
Any and all original characters are property of the author and belong to 
her. Any Question or comments can be sent noelwing@aol.com. Want to 
send me feedback- I’d love to hear it^_^  

Part 1: Two separate lives

	Caras Galadon the pride of the Galadrim, the center of Lothlórien 
and the highest of all the elven kingdoms in Middle-earth. That’s how 
Haldir thought of it anyway. It had been his home for centuries now and it 
was his entire world.

       He was lounging in his home, a talan that he shared with his two 
brothers, Rúmil and Orophin, high up in the canopy of trees that made up 
the city of the elves. Haldir and his brothers were not born in the city but 
they took their positions as border guards very seriously but none more 
seriously than Haldir for he was the captain of the guard in the city and 
that was something that he was very proud of. But as of four hours ago he 
had been relieved of his duties so that a fresh patroller could take his place 
and he had returned home to get as much rest before he was once again 
called to duty. 
      
	The fluttering of wings roused his attentions and he sat up on his 
sleeping mat to find that three small birds had landed at the edge of his 
talan. They were lovely creatures with wings of silver and gray that 
sparked in the light from the lamps that dangled everywhere. Haldir got up 
and fetched a pouch that he carried with him while on patrol. Inside were 
several pieces of lembas bread that he had not eaten while on duty earlier; 
he took out one piece, crumbled it in his hands and began distributing it to 
the birds. The birds chirped with delight as they pecked the crumbs of the 
floor and from his hands. 

      “Prince of Mirkwood; I bare a message to you from your father the 
king.” The voice came from the guest dwelling that was across the way 
from Haldir’s own home. He peered over the edge to see an elf glad in 
green and brown, the trademark colors of the Mirkwood elves. The one 
being presented with the message was none other than Legolas, the 
youngest son of the king Thranduil. Haldir couldn’t help his curiosity and 
he decided to lean over the talan’s edge to get a better look at what was 
going on.
       
      The prince took the letter from the messenger before dismissing 
him; the messenger bid the prince farewell and left. Haldir watched as the 
prince broke the wax binder and unfolded the piece of parchment. Haldir 
saw as Legolas’ face went from composed to devastation in an instant. 
Legolas crushed the letter into the palm of his hand and than paced angrily 
back and fourth for several minutes. He looked so disgruntled; whatever 
news came within that letter it must’ve been bad to of aroused such anger 
from the prince.
      
       Haldir did not know the prince very well at all but Legolas was 
real friendly with Rúmil and Orophin and had tried to befriend him or at 
least Haldir thought Legolas had tried; but in the end Haldir refused the 
prince’s gestures. When his brothers asked him why he refused to be 
friends with the prince Haldir would tell them that he had more important 
thing to do than tag after some royal brat. His brothers would then tease 
him; saying he was just jealous of the prince because he was not half as 
good at archery as Legolas was or not as beautiful. Legolas had come to 
the golden wood once every ten years so that he could attend the grandiose 
combat and skills competition that was held in Lothlórien. He had come 
with his father and his siblings (who were already veterans) for his first 
competition thirty years ago and he had been steady competitor ever since. 
Only this year had been different; instead of leaving with his family he 
had been asked by the lady of the wood herself to remain and study in the 
golden wood for a year; he accepted the invitation with the youthful 
eagerness of a child. He was only six months into his stay but even Haldir 
had to admit that his skill had remarkably improved and the prince’s 
potential only increased. 
      
      Legolas was normally so composed and wore the same mask of 
royal edict that his father was famous for, but Haldir had never seen him 
act as he was now. The prince’s usually calm and graceful steps were 
replaced by angry stomps as he paced around on his patio. After several 
moments of wild pacing the prince entered his dwelling in a huff and after 
a few more minutes the dwelling went dark. When Haldir saw the lights 
go out he knew that the prince must have of retired for the night. A yawn 
escaped him as the thought of sleep captured him. Forgetting about the 
scene he had just witnessed Haldir bid his feathered friends good night and 
retuned to his bed thinking that whatever news Legolas had gotten it did 
not concern him what so ever.
      
					    *******

      The piece of parchment lay wadded up on the table next to 
Legolas’ quiver of arrows that stood propped up against the wall. It was 
message written by the hand of his father who sometimes seemed more 
like a force of nature than an elf lord. The letter bore little pleasantries and 
was very direct; Legolas was being ordered home. 
      
	Legolas lay in his bed but sleep would not come and he didn’t even 
feel the least bit tired but feigning sleep was the only way to ward off 
unexpected visitors for he didn’t feel like seeing anyone at the time. It was 
sad because his day had started out and gone so well, in fact everything in 
Lothlórien had gone very well for him through out his six-month stay. He 
had come to the city all that time ago with his father and a regiment of 
Mirkwood soldiers to participate in the competition that was held every 
ten years their. For him it was his third competition, his father and siblings 
had participated in many others but only until thirty years ago was he 
deemed ready to participate. His competition of choice was archery. Just 
being at the competition itself was an experience for elves from all over 
Middle-earth came to Caras Galadon; the sons of Elrond-Elladan and 
Elrohir, Mirkwood soldiers as well as other wood elves and some as far 
north as the gray havens. To be among so many different people was one 
of the things that the prince most looked forward to when time for the 
competition came around.

	The chance to be in Lothlórien was also something that the prince 
looked forward to as well. His siblings and parents had told him stories 
about the golden city for years and the moment he beheld it with his own 
eyes, he had fallen in love with it. He knew he would never get tired of 
seeing the dome shaped canopy that the giant mellyrn trees formed, the 
way the structures were built around and with in the trees and above all 
else; being lulled to sleep every night by the sounds of nature and the 
songs of elves. Legolas loved his home in Mirkwood, Thranduil’s hall was 
a massive cave dwelling that he had established as a home for all elves of 
woodland descent and it was a grand dwelling. But Legolas would often 
camp in the woods and spend as much time a possible in the open. Caras 
Galadon was every thing he could ever want in a dream home and when 
Galadriel the lady of the wood asked him if he would like to be fostered in 
the city for a year, the offer was too good to be refused.
 
	He begged and begged his father for leave when the offer was 
presented six months ago. Of course his father asked why the lady had 
made such a generous offer to him but Legolas was to excited to care, all 
he wanted to do was stay in the city for the allotted time, yet he secretly 
hoped to make it longer. Thranduil went to the lady herself and asked why 
she made his son such a generous offer and she answered by saying that 
she was very impressed by his skill at this most recent of competitions. He 
had gone up against both of her grandsons (Elladan and Elrohir) and 
emerged victorious. She went on to say that a year of training under the 
Galadrim would work to improve his skills so that he might be able to 
serve his father better. Thranduil eventually agreed to let Legolas stay so 
that he may study to improve not only his physical skills but his academic 
skills as well. Legolas was so happy when his training with the Galadrim 
began; they were all good teachers but what he liked most was that they 
did not go easy in him just because he was a prince. They were very strict 
and pushed and pushed and pushed him again to do better and his 
academic tutors were no easier on him. Almost every evening Legolas 
would return to his dwelling completely worn out mentally or aching 
physically and he was never happier. 

	But now it looked as though his fun had come to an end and within 
the next few days he would have to pack up and head home to Mirkwood. 
A special delegation from the havens was coming to Mirkwood and 
Thranduil wanted his youngest son home so that he could observe the 
situation first hand. The delegation was scheduled to arrive at Mirkwood 
in two months and Thranduil wanted his on home before that. Legolas in 
truth did not want to go but even he could not go against the wishes of his 
father that went hand and hand with the orders of his king.

 	Legolas loved his father but at the same time Legolas was so 
frustrated by his father. Legolas was a full-grown elf and very capable of 
surviving and defending himself in the wilderness or in battle, yet his 
father refused to treat him as such. Out of all his children, Thranduil kept 
Legolas on the tightest leash and offered no other explanation than it was 
because he was the youngest. Legolas could understand that his father had 
only good intentions for him but Legolas honestly wished his father would 
just let him go and not try to be so controlling.

	The constant musings in his mind had actually worked to tire him 
and he began to feel the soft pull of sleep. He rubbed his face with his 
hand and turned to his window. In the distance he could see the talan that 
the march-warden Haldir and his two brothers Rúmil and Orophin 
inhabited. The talan was dark, which meant that its occupants must be 
asleep. Rúmil and Orophin were both very down to earth in Legolas’ 
opinion. The two of them enjoyed a good laugh and even the occasional 
prank or two. The two of them often took part in the prince’s training and 
the three of them socialized often unlike their older brother Haldir who 
rarely ever participated in such leisurely activities. Haldir, Haldir was 
something else though. He was chosen by the lady herself to be guardian 
of the wood and such an important position kept him in constant company 
with Celeborn; husband of Galadriel and lord of the wood. It was Haldir 
who had been there to Greet Legolas and his father’s company when 
Legolas first journeyed to the golden wood and on every return trip Haldir 
was there to escort them to the city every time.

	Despite Legolas’ attempts to befriend the guardian, Haldir for 
some reason always acted as if he had better things to do than socialize 
with people. His brothers said that he had always placed duty above all 
other things and he always had kept people at arms length; they even said 
that Haldir sometimes went as far as shutting them out-his own two 
brothers. The explanation still did not make Legolas feel any less miffed 
when Haldir brushed him off or turned him down for a social engagement 
but at the same time; Legolas respected the guardian and the work that he 
was responsible for. He had really wanted to learn more about Haldir but 
Legolas would have to leave soon and whatever became of Haldir after 
that; it did not concern him what so ever. 

				            *******

	Three days had passed since Haldir had witnessed Legolas receive 
what ever it was that he had received and since then he had hardly ever 
seen the prince at all. He was not the only one, for none of the friends 
Legolas had made seemed to have heard much from him and rumors flew 
about the ladies of the city like leaves scattered in the wind. One rumor 
seemed to stand out among the rest for it implied that the prince’s stay was 
to be cut short. Haldir didn’t know why but this rumor caught his ear when 
he first heard it; so the prince would not be staying with them much 
longer. No one would probably believe him if he told them; but if the 
rumor was true and the prince was being ordered home by his father than 
more the pity. Legolas had so much potential and was coming into his own 
as a warrior and for his father to take that away from him was a real 
shame. Haldir wondered what it must be like to live with someone who 
had such dominion over your life; yes, he served Galadriel highest of all 
elves but never in his life had she ever forced him to do anything. In his 
heart however, Haldir could never refuse her, not after all she had done for 
his brothers and especially for him. He simply took pleasure in knowing 
that he was not in Legolas’ boots.

				           *******

	Legolas walked up the elaborate staircase that spiraled around the 
massive tree trunk. Everywhere around him were the songs of birds and 
the lantern light guided the way to the lady’s chambers. As he approached 
the entrance two elven guards stopped him. “State your business?” They 
asked politely and firmly at the same time. 

“I would like to visit with her ladyship; it concerns news I have received 
from my father King Thranduil.” He said presenting the letter that 
contained the news; the guards completely ignored the wadded state of the 
parchment and allowed him to pass.

	Legolas had to climb yet another elaborate stair case before he 
reached Galadriel’s talan. Upon his entry he beheld her; she stood like a 
statue carved from the finest white marble and she sparkled in the lantern 
light with the radiance of a thousand stars. She was an image of wisdom 
and beauty yet when she turned and smiled at him she possessed all that 
was kind and motherly. “Why Legolas; what brings you to my home?” 
She said brightly. Legolas stopped three feet from her and bowed his head 
and raised it again with all the grace his own court had taught him.

 “My lady; I am afraid that my stay in your land will have to be cut short.” 
He handed her the parchment and she took it and began to read it. It took 
only a moment for her to read it and her face went from bright to glum 
disappointment.
 
“Your father is ordering you home but you have only been with us for six 
months; he promised you the entire year that I offered.” She folded up the 
parchment and sighed heavily. She could understand Thranduil taking the 
opportunity to educate his son in the art of diplomacy but why did it have 
to be now? Couldn’t the king have waited until his son’s leave was up? 
“Must you leave? Can you not refuse this order?” She said 
sympathetically. 

“I wish I could my lady but Thranduil is a king above all other things and 
me as his son, am a prince above all other things. I can not go against his 
wishes much less his commands.” Her face went from glum to depressed; 
Legolas was of fine character but sometimes it seemed to her like he bore 
the burden of royalty like a stone around his neck.

	“I understand. When do you wish to depart?” She said softly as she 
retuned the parchment to its owner. 

“I will leave two days hence for I must make haste to Mirkwood if I am to 
arrive on time.” 

“How long do you suspect the journey will take?”

“If I hurry I can make it in two weeks but the delegation from the havens 
is not scheduled to arrive for two months. But I think it best that I get back 
as soon as possible so that I may study and prepare myself for this event.” 
He tucked the parchment into his tunic.
 
“Have escorts arrived to take you back then?”

“No my lady I will be traveling alone.” Galadriel’s face changed its 
emotional hue yet again and she now looked very concerned. 

“I am sorry Legolas but I can not allow you to make such a journey alone. 
You are still so young and the path between here and Mirkwood is very 
perilous.” She said it as if he had learned nothing in the past six months, 
like he was still a child or something.

 “I appreciate your concern but I am quite capable of making this journey 
on my own.” He tried to sound assertive without sounding rude at the 
same time. 

“I am not saying I doubt your skills Legolas but your father did place you 
in my care and as such you are my responsibility.” Legolas could not 
argue with her; she had been so kind to him in the past so he may as well 
heed her advice. 

“Very well’ how many of your guards would you have escort me home?” 
He said trying to hide his slight irritation at having to swallow his pride. 

“I think one will be enough. With the combined skill of a Mirkwood 
prince and a Galadrim soldier anyone would have to be insane to bother 
you.” It was at that moment that Legolas was reminded yet again why he 
admired her ladyship so much; she cared for him but she didn’t treat him 
like baby; despite her responsibilities to him she had faith in his ability 
and did not burden him by embellishing his station with overprotection 
and attention. 

	“I understand my lady. Who may I ask will serve as my escort?” 
Galadriel touched the tip of her fist to her lips while she thought about it 
for a minute. Who would be best suited for this task?
 
“Ah; I shall send my captain with you. You are familiar with Haldir are 
you not?” Legolas was taken aback; would Haldir agree to this? Haldir 
always acted as though he had better things to do than deal with Legolas 
and now it looked as thought he two of them would be raveling together.

 “Well yes lady but…”

“Yes?”

“It is just that the two of us are only acquainted; we are not friends. 
Besides I am sure that your march-warden would have more important 
duties to attend than my safe delivery back to Mirkwood. Perhaps one of 
his brothers would be a better choice…” She took his hand all of a sudden 
and looked into his eyes. Her eyes stayed Legolas; the eyes that still held 
the light of Valinor within them. 

“Legolas, why do you refuse this opportunity? I know that ever since you 
arrived in my wood for the first time that you have fancied him yet he 
turns you aside; as he does everyone else.” She saw right through him; it 
was true for Legolas deeply admired the guardian of the wood and wanted 
to be friends with him. The chance to spend time alone with him was truly 
a great gift.
 
“But why bestow such an opportunity upon me?” 

She squeezed his hand. “Because of all your family your soul shines the 
brightest and I know Haldir has noticed as well. But he keeps every one at 
a distance from his heart and only lets people in so far, the same way you 
do. You and he are so alike yet so different. You could learn a lot from 
each other.” Legolas kissed her hand and bowed respectfully. 

“I will leave it to you to inform him. Please tell him that I would like to 
leave two days from now and that I wish to make haste to Mirkwood.” 
Galadriel nodded and dismissed the prince 

“Legolas, when all is well in your home I expect you to come back and 
finish your studies with us!” She called out to him and he turned and 
smiled that charming smile that could melt even the ice upon the highest 
mountain. She watched him leave and if she wasn’t mistaken there was 
slight bounce in his step that was not there before. 

*Per haps you will be the one to connect with Haldir and show him that he 
is not alone* she thought to her self.

					*******

	The prince of Mirkwood was scheduled to leave in the morning 
and Haldir went through his satchel one more time to make sure he had 
everything he needed while his two brothers made it a point to stay out of 
his way. The other night Haldir had been summoned to and audience with 
the lady Galadriel and ever since he had not quite been himself. They gave 
him some time to cool down before they asked him what was wrong. He 
told them that the prince needed to be escorted back to his father’s 
kingdom and that she would like him to handle the assignment. His 
brothers could understand why he was not too thrilled about the 
assignment; Haldir did not care much for elven royalty. He had been that 
way ever since the lady Galadriel’s granddaughter, Arwen, had visited 
over two hundred years ago. Haldir was asked to act as her guard and 
attendant, an assignment he regretted taking almost instantly. Princess 
Arwen ordered him around relentlessly and proved to have inherited the 
same dry and deplorable personality of her father, Lord Elrond. When she 
left Haldir had never been so happy but ever since then he had wanted as 
little to do with elven royalty as much as possible, with the exception of 
the lady Galadriel.

	Rúmil and Orophin tried to assure Haldir that Legolas was nothing 
like his father or his other siblings. To them, he was spoiled but he was 
also willing to work and didn’t mind getting his hands dirty and they 
thought him a good friend. But Haldir didn’t seem to care about any of it 
and the two brothers knew that the real reason why he was going in the 
first place was because Galadriel asked him to; as far as Rúmil and 
Orophin knew; Haldir had never once refused a request of him made by 
the lady. The two of them wished their brother a good trip and a safe 
return as well before retiring for the night. 

	Haldir held the flap of his satchel open as he did a double check of 
his provisions that he had packed.  A few extra sets of clothing, a loaf of 
lembas, some dried meat, water, first aid supplies and a few other travel 
necessities, nothing seemed to be amiss. He than moved on to his 
weaponry; his quiver was full of arrows; about twenty in all and his sword 
had been sharpened as well; yes everything was in perfect order. He would 
be ready to leave at sunrise for what was sure to an interesting trip.

					*******

	Legolas was having problems with what to pack and it was starting 
to get late; not good if he wanted to make an early start in the morning. He 
had acquired so mush stuff in the last six months; things like books, 
clothes and other miscellaneous items were thrown about his bed. He 
wanted so much to take the books his tutors had so graciously given to 
him home to his mother. Legolas’ mother was quite a history buff and he 
knew that she would love the books that told the history of the Galadrim 
and even contained some histories of Valinor. But he soon got it through 
his head that he would be coming back eventually and that nonessential 
things such as the books would have to remain for the time being. But how 
he wanted to bring them not only to gift his mother, to show his father and 
siblings the kind if education he was getting and would continue to 
receive. It was so nice to learn more than just royal protocol and political 
matters and he felt like his horizons had expanded so much in the past six 
months. But his enlightenment was going to have to be put on hold until 
further notice and the thought depressed him.

	After an hour of sifting through and determining what was really 
necessary for the trip to Mirkwood his bag was finally packed and it was a 
lot smaller and lighter than what he had originally tried; but he couldn’t 
resist taking one book; it was a collection of stories from Valinor; it was 
his favorite.  Three hours before Legolas went to the supply store and 
there he ran into Orophin, Haldir’s younger brother. Orophin was friendly 
and very well versed in the art of packing food for long trips. He had 
helped the prince pick out what foods to bring by telling him which would 
last the longest and even those that had the best taste. 

	After deciding which foods to bring Legolas had brought them 
back to his talan and neatly organized the provisions just as Orophin had 
instructed. Deep down Legolas wished it were Orophin or even Rúmil 
going with him instead of Haldir. Yes it was true; Legolas did have a 
secret infatuation with Haldir and had for many years. It had started 
almost from the first time he had ever met Haldir; he would never forget 
that day when Haldir had welcomed the delegation of Mirkwood.

      		~			~ 			~
      
      The delegation from Mirkwood had been riding all day nonstop. 
The light of day was beginning to wane and Legolas was aching all over 
as a result of the long trip from Mirkwood. But he didn’t let the weariness 
of travel dilute his excitement for this was his first time beyond the 
borders of Mirkwood. The fact that Legolas had just recently come of age 
and was on his way to take part in his first competition of elves only added 
fuel to the flames of enthusiasm that welled within in soul. 
      
      His curiosity and excitement had turned Legolas into a little 
chatterbox and his two older brothers as well as his father were constantly 
bombarded by his questions. At one point Legolas’ older brother, Elgalad, 
threatened to swat him like a fly if didn’t shut-up. Thranduil couldn’t help 
but to laugh out loud over the undying energy of his youngest son but even 
he was beginning to buckle under the childish curiosity. He thanked the 
Valar when they finally made it to borders of the golden wood. 
      
      Legolas was ready to start hounding the guards when the trotting 
of a horse emanated from the trees. Out from the brush emerged an elf 
unlike any other Legolas had ever seen before; the elf possessed a 
different kind of grace all together. He was just as tall as the average elf 
but he was endowed with a slightly larger musculature and instead of 
blonde; he brandished hair that looked like it was spun from strands of 
pure silver. And his eyes were the color of steel; he truly was the most 
handsome individual that Legolas had ever beheld. Legolas was about to 
ask the identity of the elf when a formal yet melodic voice filled the air. 
“King Thranduil, I am Haldir of Lothlórien. Welcome back.” Legolas was 
stunned into silence.    
        
      Haldir addressed them with formality and respect when he 
introduced himself to the royal family. Haldir was attired in shades of grey 
and black and he looked so plain when compared to the bright greens and 
forest colors of the Mirkwood delegation; but Legolas liked simplicity and 
Haldir seemed to have it written all over him. The ride to the border was a 
quiet one until they approached the edge of the forest. The trees opened up 
to reveal an open valley of lush green foliage bathed in the setting sun. In 
the middle of it all stood a gigantic dome of trees; the trees were bigger 
than anything Legolas had ever imagined. “Creoso á í Caras Galadon, eska 
e? í Galadrim.” <Welcome to Caras Galadon, home of the Galadrim.> 
Haldir spoke so proudly of the golden city and Legolas could see in 
Haldir’s eyes the very depth of the love that he had for this place that he 
called home. Legolas knew right then and there that Haldir was a true 
solider of the golden wood and respected him instantly.
      
      		~			~			~
      
	Legolas blushed over the flash back of his first encounter with the 
march-warden of the golden wood. He even recalled several attempts he 
made to socialize with Haldir but no matter what he tried; Haldir never 
dropped the mask of formality and always addressed Legolas with the 
respect that he was entitled to via his crown. But things were different 
now; Legolas and Haldir would have a chance to be alone together while 
on route to Mirkwood. 

					*******

	The next morning, the main gate at the city was full of activity; a 
huge crowd of elves; including the lady Galadriel and the lord Celeborn 
had gathered there to see the young prince off on his journey home. Two 
horses were made ready; they were both stallions of the Galadrim and 
colored grey. Attendants helped Legolas strap the last of his provisions on 
to his horse while Haldir double-checked his own mount to make sure 
everything was secure. Once last checks were made both elves mounted 
their horses with the same grace and ease that was a trademark of the 
elves. 

	Legolas turned and waved goodbye to the crowd as well as the 
gracious lady of the wood and he received many fond goodbyes from the 
soldiers and many pleas of an eventual return from the young ladies of the 
wood. Haldir waved to his brothers and comrades before both he and the 
prince headed out on their journey. Haldir looked at the prince mounted 
upon the grey steed that raced in front of him. Haldir had been asked by 
the lady to look after the prince and that’s exactly what he would do even 
if he disliked elven royalty. 

      Legolas couldn’t help but to steal a glance at the proud soldier that 
rode behind him; Haldir looked absolutely magnificent and Legolas felt 
his heart skip a beat as the Galadrim locked eyes with him. He always felt 
so young and inexperienced in Haldir’s presence yet something about the 
guard fascinated him so and had from the day he had first met Haldir. 
Legolas turned his gaze towards the horizon; he eagerly anticipated what 
ever might happen on this journey. Little did Legolas know that this would 
be a journey where two lives that existed mostly separate from one another 
would become entwined and changed forever. 

TBC in part 2- The Crossroads



Take My Hand
By Noelwing 

Part two: The Crossroads 

	The two riders set on the trail that would take them northeast towards Mirkwood. 
They had left the golden wood far behind them by now and the morning had faded into 
afternoon. Haldir estimated that if he and Legolas kept an even pace they could make it to 
Mirkwood in less than two weeks; he certainly hoped for that, the sooner he delivered the 
prince; the sooner he could head home. 

      It had only been a few hours since Haldir left the golden wood behind and he 
missed it already; yet the trip was not going like anything he had expected so far. Prince 
Legolas had been very quiet ever since they left the city. It was becoming clear that 
Legolas was not like any of the other royal elves that he had associated with. Haldir could 
remember when he had to guard the young lady Arwen when she went out on her rides; 
she couldn’t go ten minutes without squawking about something. There were times when 
Haldir thought he would loose his mind when Arwen was around; he thought his skill as 
a guardian were wasted on her and when this trip started he expected nothing different 
from Legolas. But as things stood; a lot was different.
      
       Haldir shifted his gaze from the trail ahead to the other rider who rode in synch 
with him. He stole a glance at the face of the prince; his face was stern like he was lost in 
deep thought. The scene, which Haldir had witnessed, not too long ago sprang into his 
mind; he remembered how the prince had reacted to the letter that turned out to carry 
orders for Legolas to return to Mirkwood.  A feeling suddenly sprouted inside of Haldir 
and he couldn’t quite explain it. The feeling was almost a mix of curiosity and sympathy 
for the young Prince that was currently in his care; what must it be like to live life based 
on the whims of another just because of royal authority. Haldir not realizing that he too 
had dropped into thought; was unaware that he was still staring at Legolas.
      
      Legolas was musing over what plans his father might have for him upon his 
return, most likely he would have an entire list of protocol to go over and memorize for 
the delegation from the havens of the north. A part of Legolas honestly looked forward to 
the coming of the visitors for he was always fascinated by elves from other realms and 
these elves were from the gray havens no less; the harbor by the sea. It was actually a 
dream of his to visit the ocean someday for he had never visited the sea elves and now he 
would have a chance to commune with them in his home in Mirkwood. But his curiosity 
did little to quell his irritation that his leave in Lothl?rien had been cut short. He was 
learning so much and had made many friends; in short he had been thoroughly enjoying 
himself. He loved being away from his worrisome mother, his brothers and how they 
never left him alone and above all, his father who always seemed to overbearing. He was 
now going back to all of that and he wondered how long it would be before he could 
return to the golden wood. He raised his head to the road ahead of him and that’s when he 
felt eyes upon him.
      
      The sudden eye contact that flashed between him and the prince startled him; he 
jumped slightly and he hoped Legolas hadn’t noticed. “Haldir, is something wrong?” 
      
“No my prince every thing is fine.” 

Haldir said hoping that he hadn’t lost too much of his composure. Legolas felt slightly 
awkward. The silence between them was staggering to him for he was used to more 
talkative company like Haldir’s brothers. Those two always had something to say and 
Legolas really had a hard time believing sometimes that Rúmil and Orophin were related 
to Haldir for he was so different from them. Legolas wondered why he was so different 
furthermore he wondered what it was about the march-warden that held him so. Legolas 
hoped that maybe he could get to know Haldir a little better but how would that happen if 
the march-warden didn’t even speak to him and he cursed himself a fool.

	Legolas spent such a great amount of time musing through his thoughts that he 
didn’t even notice the time that had gone by; almost three hours and the day light was 
beginning to wane and the horses were beginning to show signs of fatigue as well. 
Legolas looked to his companion and realized that they had gone the whole day and had 
barely said a word to each other. Legolas really couldn’t understand how someone could 
go so long without communication. “Yes my prince is something wrong?” Now it was 
Legolas’ turn to jump. 

“Oh I think we should probably find a place to camp for the night for the sun will soon 
set.” Haldir looked up through the canopy of trees and his elf eyes registered the falling 
of twilight.

	“We should reach the outskirts of Lothlórien very soon in fact there is an ideal 
spot just through the brush up ahead.” He indicated to a thicket of vegetation that was just 
a stones throw away from them. Legolas looked to where he pointed and a mischievous 
grin appeared on his face; Haldir knew the youth was planning something and he was 
right. In an instant Haldir’s path was blocked by the prince’s mount.

“Let’s Race!”

“Excuse me?”

“Come on, I’ll race you there; looser tends the horses tonight what do you say?”

	Haldir was completely exasperated; he certainly wasn’t in the mood to play 
childish games. He had been riding all day, his back was aching and his stomach was 
growling as well. He just wanted to make it to the spot and rest. He had a snide remark all 
ready when he suddenly looked into the eyes of the youth in front of him. His eyes were 
like those of an eager child. He didn’t know why but Haldir decided to humor the young 
prince after all. “You better be serious about that.” He said in an un-definable tone.  
“First on to make it past that thicket up ahead wins.” He pointed to a gaggle of bushes at 
the end of the path. The two riders stood upon their marks and away they went.

	Legolas was so happy when Haldir agreed to the race. Legolas really had no 
desire to compete; all he really wanted was to see if he could ignite the playful spirit 
inside the march-warden, if it even existed. Now the two of them were racing neck and 
neck and the finish line was coming closer and closer.

	Haldir pushed his horse to go faster as he kept his eyes on the shrubbery that 
served as the finish line. He really didn’t care for these kinds of games but now it seemed 
almost crucial that he win this little race. He wasn’t going to go easy on Legolas just 
because he was a prince. No, he would show him what competition was all about.

	Legolas watched out of the corner of his eye as the march-warden of Lothlorien 
came up on his right shoulder only to pass him in an instant. Haldir kept his eyes on the 
finish line the entire time. Legolas could see the intensity in Haldir’s eyes, the same kind 
he had seen in Haldir during competitions and he knew that Haldir was focusing all of his 
energy on the goal. 

	The two elves pushed their horses again and again to go faster; but in the end, 
Haldir proved to be the one in control. He reached the finish line with lightning speed and 
was just as quick to announce his victory. “It would seem that fate favors me on this 
day!” Haldir exclaimed. Legolas slowed his steed and came along side Haldir. The prince 
was panting hard and was trying to catch his breath. Haldir was thinking about how 
sorely vexed the young prince must’ve been at his loss. He braced himself as the prince 
regained his breath; he expected the prince to whine at his defeat and Haldir was ready 
for any snide remarks.

	The prince lifted his head and Haldir was faced with the brightest smile he had 
ever seen. “The prince of Mirkwood bows to his victor.” He was giggling between words 
and gave a mock bow. When his head came up he was still smiling like a little child.

	Legolas’ giggling subsided but he was disappointed to see that his enthusiasm was 
not shared. Haldir just stared at him. “What is it; what’s wrong?” 

“What’s wrong? You just lost doesn’t that mean anything to you?”

“Not really, it was just sport. But I fully intend to honor the terms of agreement.” He 
dismounted and took the reigns of his horse before reaching for the reigns of Haldir’s 
horse. “Now good sir if you will dismount so that I may care for your steed.” He was 
smiling again.

	Haldir leapt from his saddle to the ground and let the prince take control of the 
horse. Haldir told the prince that the clearing was just through the thicket that was in 
front of them and was answered by a fond “lead the way” from the young prince. Legolas 
was completely undaunted by his loss, in fact he seemed almost happy about it; nothing 
like what Haldir had expected at all.

					*******
	
	The elves pushed their way through the thicket of foliage and entered into a 
clearing. “Well, this is the place. It may not be much but the trees will provide shelter for 
the night and there is a stream not to far away good for clean water and bathing.” Haldir 
said as he made his way into the clearing. Legolas stepped into the center of the clearing. 
It was a small circle completely bare, save for a few large boulders and a fine layer of 
moss that covered the ground. Trees surrounded the circle and their braches reached high 
and formed a dome of natural shelter. Beams of light cut through the canopy of leaves 
and shadows danced on the ground as wind rustled through the forest. All the sounds 
were accented by the tinkle of water coming from the steam that Haldir had described. 

	Legolas took in his surroundings as he secured the horses so that he could attend 
them. He removed the saddlebags and camping gear first and than removed the saddles 
themselves so that the horses were free of their burdens. Legolas loved horses and it 
showed within his every gesture towards the animals. He made sure every stroke of the 
brush through the hoses mane left absolutely no tangles and took extra care in the 
removing of twigs and other forest debris from their tails. When he was satisfied with his 
work he removed the bridles from the horses so that they could graze for the night.

	Haldir returned to the clearing after going to collect firewood. He had not even 
bothered to tell Legolas because he was occupied caring for their steeds and he wasn’t 
paying attention to much else. The faint crash of the wood startled legolas just a little and 
he turned from the grazing horses. Haldir paid little heed to the gasp of surprise emulated 
from the young prince and just simply went about starting a fire. 

	Legolas watched as Haldir cleared away a patch of moss in the center of the 
campsite. It was about time that they had a fire for the sun had fully set and it was 
beginning to get to dark for even elves to see. Haldir arranged the fire pit to his liking and 
struck a piece of flint producing several sparks that landed upon the dry brush and the 
sparks quickly ignited. Haldir added dry twigs to feed the hungry flames and they blazed 
fourth from a light yellow into dazzling shades of orange and red that danced in the 
darkness.  

	Legolas opened up the saddlebag that contained their provisions. He pulled out 
some bread, cheese and some dried meat for the both of them. “Here you go; you must be 
hungry.” Legolas handed the food over to Haldir.

“Thank you.” Haldir said as he absentmindedly reached to take the food from the prince’s 
hands. At the moment Haldir’s hand brushed his, Legolas blushed and his breath caught 
in his throat. 

“Is something the matter?” Haldir inquired.

“Oh…no, I’m just not used to being touched, that’s all.”  Legolas said not meaning to 
sound as shy as he did.

“That’s interesting, I should think that you being a prince would be used to physical 
contact.”  He took a bite of bread and swallowed. “People wanting to shake your hand 
and all; then there are the elf maidens to consider as well.” He said rather snidely.

	Legolas wondered if Haldir was trying to upset him on purpose. Whether he was 
or not, Legolas was not going to let him get away with it. “ You might be surprised; it’s 
because I’m a prince that people *don’t* do things like shake my hand or hug me. And 
my father does not yet think I am ready for a companion so there are in fact *no* elf 
maidens to consider.” Legolas crossed his arms over his chest and sat back in a huff. “It’s 
my father you see; I’m his youngest child and he just wants to protect me-I guess. My 
mother’s the same way, so worried about me getting hurt or being in danger. I do love the 
two of them but I want to be free to, they can’t protect me forever. I have grown up and 
I’m tired of everyone treating me as though I’m still an elfling.”

	Haldir listened to the prince’s rant. He didn’t know why but something about the 
way the prince spoke of his frustrations sparked his interest. “Why do you not simply tell 
them that you are ill with their way of treating you? You should be the only one allowed 
to tell yourself how to exist my prince.” Haldir had no idea where that came from; why 
was he trying to advise the prince he wondered. 

      Legolas looked a little abashed and he relaxed a little. “Believe me, I have tried 
several times to tell and show them that I can be responsible for myself. But they only let 
me go so far before I am restrained. Everyone around me sides with them saying that 
your parent’s only wish to protect…the world is a dangerous place and you are too 
young.” He took a deep breath and released it sharply. “I suppose they all mean well 
but…how can I learn the dangers of the world if I am not let out to explore it. That’s why 
I was so excited about the Lady of the wood inviting me to stay. A chance to be away 
from my father and brothers; it was too much to let pass me by but even that was only 
allowed to go so far.” 
      
      Haldir was starting to get a little frustrated, he hated people who could never 
really help themselves and would much rather complain about how bad their situations 
were than try and improve matters. “Then why did you consent to return to Mirkwood in 
the first place? Know one is making you return!”
      
“Because I am a prince and I have responsibilities. I have to learn all that I can in case I 
may ever have to take the throne someday. I have to put the needs of my father’s people 
ahead of my own. Besides, at least I am allowed to experience some things for I have 
seen far worse.”

	“They’re worse things; like what?” Haldir said as he stretched out on the opposite 
side of the fire pit and stirred the fire with a stick.

“Well you should see how Lord Elrond of Rivendell treats his daughter Arwen. He keeps 
her on a leash like yea long …” Legolas held his right hand showing with his thumb and 
index finger a short distance to exaggerate his point. “Elrond never allows her do 
anything by herself, never lets travel by herself nor does he allow her to be alone often. 
He always wants her to be escorted and the only thing he does let her do is study 
academics and such. I can understand her being so angry all the time; freedom is a luxury 
that she does not often get to enjoy.”

	“Am I to understand that you are able to tolerate that spoiled brat?” Legolas was 
taken aback by Haldir’s harsh words. Yes, Arwen could be handful from time to time but 
Legolas did not think it fair to label her a “brat”.

“You do not know her as I do. Deep down she is a very talented young maiden but she is 
being stifled. I am telling you that one-day she will break free from her father Elrond. She 
will get out in the world and start courting men just to spite Elrond. My parents trust me 
to some degree at least and I am privileged enough. What I have is simply parent/child 
frustrations. Surely your parents must have had restraints on you from time to time. Do 
they not worry about your duties as a march-warden for Galadriel?” 

	Haldir’s face took on a grim tone and he turned away from the prince He picked 
up a twig from the woodpile and began twirling it with his fingers. He looked as though 
he was thinking hard on something. “Haldir, did I say something wrong?” Legolas prayed 
that he had not offended Haldir, especially when he was so starved for conversation. He 
did not want Haldir to go silent on him.

      “I’m only there because of Galadriel; same is true of my brothers. We are not 
natural born citizens of the golden wood; the lady adopted us a long time ago. “
      
“Really she adopted the three of you, why?”

“Because we had no place else to go. You see, in truth my brothers and I were born to a 
pair of wandering elves, our mother and father were apart of no kingdom and just 
traveled from place to place taking my brothers and I with them. It was a harsh existence 
but… I was happy. It was just the five of us and that’s all we needed.” 

	Legolas couldn’t help but to notice that Haldir didn’t sound like his haughty self 
anymore. His voice took on a more somber tone and the light from the fire shone on his 
face. He looked sentimental and there was a sign of longing in his eyes, as though he 
terribly missed something. “What happened?” Legolas asked. He was reluctant to know 
actually. He knew that what ever must’ve happened could only have of been tragic but he 
felt that he needed to know.

	“I was very young, not even a century old in fact but I can still remember.” His 
eyes shut and Legolas knew that look, he had seen upon the faces of avid warriors; it was 
the resurfacing of terrible memories. But he did not interrupt Haldir. “ We had taken 
shelter in a cave, the weather was bad and Rúmil and Orophin were still so young, only 
elven toddlers. “ Haldir kept his eyes shut but he laughed slightly as he remembered how 
awkward his brothers were at the time. “But something happened in the middle of the 
night; there was this tremendous rumbling in the earth and the next thing I knew; both my 
parents were trying to usher my brothers and I out of the cave. Rocks were falling all 
around us and my father fell behind. My mother pushed the three of us out the mouth of 
cave; she told us she was going back for father…” He trailed off; his face became cold 
and hard, like he was trying to deny himself the sadness.

       “The last thing my mother said to me was “Haldir, no matter what, please protect 
your baby brothers” She turned and went back into the cave. That’s when the ground 
really began to shake and the whole entrance to the cave collapsed. “ Haldir’s breaths 
deepened; he was really fighting for control. “I waited and waited, hoping to see some 
sign that they had survived. Three days I waited with my brothers…”
      
“They never emerged…” Legolas broke in without even realizing he had. Haldir made no 
reprimand, he only continued.

      “After that I took my brothers by the hand and just headed off. I didn’t know 
where to go and I had to look after Rúmil and Orophin. We had been wandering for a 
couple of days when we came upon what sounded like a celebration. I ventured closer to 
investigate and that’s when I saw a huge congregation of elves. They were having some 
kind of party; I tried to steal some food for my brothers but I was caught by none other 
than Lord Elrond, he was there showing off his daughter Arwen who was a new born at 
the time. It was obvious that we didn’t belong to any one at the coronation and everyone 
wondered what was to be done with us. It was Galadriel who offered her hand to us. She 
said that we could have a home in Lothlórien if we so wished.” Haldir suddenly relaxed, 
his eyes looked up and were shinning with wonder as he recalled his first encounter with 
the lady of the golden wood.
      
       “She took us in. Educated and took care of us. Celeborn instantly fell in love with 
Rúmil and Orophin and he even personally trained them as warriors once they were old 
enough. I knew in Lothlórien my brothers would always be protected, so as you can see I 
have done as my mother requested. As for Lady Galadriel, I will always be grateful and 
that’s why I will do whatever she may ask of me.” With that he chucked the twig he had 
been fiddling with intro the flames.
      
      The crackling of the flames was the only sound that filled the clearing. Haldir 
went painfully silent once through with his narrative. Legolas didn’t know what to say for 
he had no idea that Haldir had lost his parents in an earthquake when he was still an 
elfling. Legolas found himself acknowledging how incredibly blessed he was; he had a 
family and a place to call home. Haldir’s parents were wandering elves and so were 
Haldir and his brothers for a time. He couldn’t possibly imagine what it must be like for 
someone to not know his or her true origins. Legolas was so lost in thought that he 
completely neglected his food; he had lost his appetite.
      
      “What is it now? You are not eating.” Haldir said lapsing back into his more 
formal self. 
      
“Oh, it’s nothing. I just have no appetite, I thought I was hungry but I was wrong.”

“Well, best you eat something later, I promised Lady Galadriel I would look after you 
and deliver you safely to your father the king. That includes healthy as well my prince.”

 Haldir opened his own saddlebag and pulled out his bedroll. He unveiled the gray 
blankets on the side of the fire pit he had been occupying and lay down upon them. “We 
have a long way to go yet so you should rest as well my prince.” 

	Legolas fetched his own bedroll and put his bedding on the other side of the fire 
pit. He laid himself down as well. At the moment his head hit the pillow he realized how 
incredibly tired he was. He could feel his limbs going numb as the popping of the flames 
and the chirping of crickets lulled him to sleep. Yet his eyes would not close and he 
turned his head and looked at his companion who by all appearances seemed to be asleep.

 “Haldir, do you sleep?” Legolas spoke softly to the weary march-warden.

“Prince, is there something wrong?”

“Umm, I just wanted to thank you for escorting me back to Mirkwood. It’s very good of 
you. And you do not have to keep calling me Prince, just Legolas, all right?”
 
“Very well, Legolas it is then. Now sleep.” 

	Legolas took a deep breath and settled in for sleep. On this night he happily 
awaited the elven dreamscape. He was finally lulled to sleep by the deep erythematic 
breaths of the elf sleeping across from him.

					********

	The moon slowly gave way to the sun as the first rays of its light crept up over the 
western horizon. Its light ran rampant through the forest and was captured by dewdrops 
that draped the grass and the trees. As the sun climbed higher, dewdrops captured more 
light and the forest sparkled in a heavenly glow.

      Haldir was awakened by the sound of faint munching on the grass. He opened his 
eyes and spied the most beautiful deer grazing just ten feet away from him. She was a 
pretty doe with a tan colored coat and delicate little white spots adorning her flanks. He 
tried to roll over onto his side so he could have a better look at the deer but his muscles 
protested immediately. A yelp escaped his mouth and the deer raised her head and looked 
at Haldir. He smiled back at his woodland companion as she turned and bounded away. 
/What a beautiful site to see so early in the morning./ Haldir thought to himself.
      
	He stretched his limbs and yawned rather immodestly. It had been such a long 
time since he had had to travel so long on horseback and his body was aching and the fact 
that there were still many days of travel ahead of him did not make him feel any better. 
The neighing of the horses alerted him that they were returning from their night of 
grazing. The two hoses looked good and refreshed, ready for another day of travel. Haldir 
was rolling up his bedding material when he suddenly noticed that Legolas was gone. His 
pack was gone as well and then it dawned on him, the prince must be at the river, 
probably washing up or something. Haldir looked at his hands, they were smeared with 
dirt and he instantly felt that washing up before continuing on would not be bad idea. 

					********

	Legolas stood underneath the waterfall and reveled in the feeling of the water 
cascading down his back. He had awakened early that morning so that he could bathe 
thoroughly before he and Haldir set out again. ‘Haldir’, the name caught in Legolas’ 
mind as he reflected on all that he had learned about the march-warden the night before. 
Legolas knew that despite Haldir’s attempts to hide his feelings that it pained him very 
much to speak of his past. Legolas couldn’t really blame him for doing so for he knew 
himself that he would not be fond of discussing such memories either.

	Legolas was saddened to learn that Haldir’s past was so painful, watching Haldir 
try to maintain his calm (and somewhat cold) demeanor was one of the saddest things 
Legolas had ever had to witness; yet last night he was never happier. Haldir had finally 
opened up to him, finally returned his attention and even called him by his name and not 
his title. The memory of Hearing Haldir say his name sent shivers through his body and 
he believed that their was hope yet of reaching Haldir’s heart.

					********

	Haldir arrived at the waters edge and knelt down on the bank. It was a stream that 
he knew very well for it was a branch of the Nimrodel and he and his brothers had 
camped there many times in the past. The stream was fed by a waterfall several yards 
ahead from where he was. At the base of the fall was a deep pool of water ideal for 
swimming and bathing. Haldir would’ve loved to have of taken a bath, being an elf, he 
naturally liked to keep clean but there was not much more time before he and Legolas 
had to get moving again. If only he had awakened sooner.

       He dipped his hands into the cool stream and cupped a generous amount of water, 
which he promptly splashed upon his face. The cool water felt clean and refreshing and 
brought the weary traveler to full awareness. He shook his head from side to side sending 
little droplets of water in all directions. It was when he turned his head to the right that 
something caught his eye. Standing beneath the fall was Legolas; he was completely nude 
and seemed oblivious to the world around him. 
      
      Haldir didn’t know why but he kept staring at his young traveling companion. 
Legolas was standing with his front side facing the rocks and boulders that built up to the 
edge that the water fell from (the fall was only four feet higher than the prince was tall). 
He remembered how the prince complained about how tired he was of family being so 
protective of him and he found himself oddly understanding why his family would do 
that. Haldir had seen Legolas fight and knew him to be a capable warrior but seeing him 
in his natural state-he looked incredibly fragile. His porcelain skin had only the slightest 
tan tinge to it and if were not for his tone muscles; he could very easily be mistaken for a 
maiden. 
      
      Legolas suddenly got the feeling that he was being watched and in one fluid 
motion he turned around to survey his surroundings; there was nothing there. Legolas 
was relieved that no one was there but he could’ve sworn that there was. Legolas stepped 
from the fall and went to the rock where he had left his saddlebag. The rock was sitting in 
the morning sun and Legolas was so pleased to find that the sun had warmed his towel. 
His clothes were equally warmed as well as he slid them onto his body that still suffered 
the chill from the river. His weapons were the last things to don his body and he headed 
back to the clearing. Haldir would no doubt be waiting there, probably ready to get under 
way and Legolas quickened his pace as not to delay any longer but he couldn’t help but 
to take one last look around the area. He couldn’t see any evidence that someone else 
besides him had been there.
      
					********
      
      Haldir secured the bridal to his horse and checked to make sure everything else 
was in order as well. When he was satisfied he went to saddle Legolas’ mount. His hands 
shook slightly as he buckled the straps of the saddle around the animal’s abdomen. When 
Legolas had nearly caught him staring he dashed back to the clearing and he prayed to the 
Valar the Legolas didn’t see him running away. By the time he got back to the clearing he 
was out of breath and blushing madly; he had never felt so stupid before in his whole life. 
He also wondered what moved him to open up to the prince the way he did, he had never 
told anyone besides Galadriel what had happened to his family; why did he tell Legolas? 
Haldir was overjoyed when he saw that their two horses were already waiting for their 
masters and he instantly set to work on preparing them for the day’s journey. He needed 
something to calm him as to not rouse Legolas’ suspicions.
      
      The snap of a twig alerted him to Legolas’ presence. “Good morning Haldir, did 
you sleep well?” Said Legolas in his usually sunny demeanor.
      
“Just fine Legolas. I took the liberty of preparing the horses, I am ready to leave when 
you are.” Legolas thanked Haldir for doing so and mounted his horse. Haldir followed 
suit and the two elves set off again. Haldir breathed a sigh of relief; it appeared that 
Legolas hadn’t noticed him earlier by the river.

					********

	The next day of travel went very much like the first except that Haldir seemed a 
bit more talkative on this day than he did the day before. He still maintained his 
controlled tone but he and Legolas engaged in small conversations and every now and 
then, Haldir would point out a landmark like a tree or a stone and explain its value to 
Legolas. Legolas listened intently to everything that Haldir told him about the terrain, he 
would never admit it but he paid more attention to Haldir’s melodic voice more than 
anything else.

	The night passed just as calmly as well. It was Haldir’s turn to look after the 
horses and Legolas prepared the fire and had their dinner ready by the time Haldir joined 
him by the fire. They went to bed almost straight away this time; they were both very 
tired and were little for conversation. Legolas was a little disappointed that Haldir didn’t 
feel much like speaking but he was content to watch the elf sleep for a while before he to 
slept. The morning had a different feeling to it. Both elves woke at the same time with a 
sense of foreboding and were hasty in their efforts to close camp and move on.

					*******

	It was early noon when the two elves reached a particularly dense section of the 
forest and the two of them had to strain their eyes to see through the maze of trees and 
other vegetation. They had however been able to relax a little; nothing had happened and 
as far as they could tell they were not being stalked. But they still remained on alert just 
in case, for the world was still so full of dangers.

	Legolas followed Haldir as he went but after a while Legolas began to feel a bit 
uneasy. The path that they were on seemed to become more and more faded and from 
what he could remember on previous journeys to the golden wood; the surrounding forest 
didn’t look familiar to him at all. Legolas was beginning to think that they were lost. 
“Haldir…are you sure you know which way you are going? This area does not look at all 
familiar to me at all.” He said cautiously not wanting to try Haldir’s temper. The older elf 
didn’t even look back at Legolas and insisted that he knew where he was going. 

	The forest only grew denser and darker and the feeling of tension had returned to 
the elves. Only this time it was worse and the both of them kept looking over their 
shoulders constantly. Legolas was starting to feel a little scared, the trees wouldn’t speak 
to him and the air was very heavy and the trail had fully disappeared sometime ago. 
“Haldir, I really think we should stop and check the map. This part of the forest does not 
feel right.” Haldir grunted and halted his horse. 

“If it will make you feel better I will show you the map. All though it is unnecessary for I 
know where we are.” Haldir had dropped back into his snide way of speaking. He 
reached into his saddlebag and retrieved the map. Legolas was all too familiar with 
Haldir’s tone of voice, he got enough of it from his siblings and teachers at home in 
Mirkwood. He pulled his horse up right along side Haldir’s and snatched the map from 
his hands.

“Interesting, I thought failure to admit one’s loss of way was a trait reserved only for 
men.” 

“Very funny.”

	Legolas ignored Haldir’s remark and unfolded the map. It was hard to see but he 
had light enough. Legolas looked on the map to try and find the last landmark he had 
seen. He found it very quickly and tried to associate the path they had taken with the one 
on the map; sure enough, they had strayed from their intended path. “I hate to tell you 
this but we are lost.” He pointed to the map with his finger. “But I think if we head in this 
direction we can make it back to the main path before…” He looked up from the map 
only to see that Haldir was paying no heed to him. “Haldir, are you even listening to 
me?”

“SILENCE!” Haldir snapped. Legolas wanted to make a snide retort. Being a prince he 
was not used to people (other than his family members) telling *him* to be quiet. But he 
bit his tongue when he saw how apprehensive Haldir looked. His head turned from left to 
right and his hand rested lightly upon the hilt of his sword.

	“Haldir, what is it?” Legolas whispered to Haldir only his question was answered 
by the sudden shriek of an arrow flying right past him. The arrow notched into a tree and 
it was quickly followed by a flurry of them, they were coming from a mess of trees just 
up ahead of the elves. “ORCS!” Legolas cried and the two elves immediately bounded 
form their horses and sent the animals running for shelter.

	With the speed and agility given by the Valar, the two elves drew their weapons. 
Haldir pulled fourth his elegant sword and stood ready for battle whilst Legolas gripped 
the precious bow that the lady Galadriel had given him as a prize during the last 
competition in Lothlorien. He notched an arrow but before he could take aim Haldir ran 
ahead of him to meet the orcs head on.

	The whooping and howling of the fell creatures filled every nook and cranny of 
the dark wood as they crawled out of their hiding places brandishing their ugly weapons 
as they did ran towards their prey. Haldir engaged the first orc and with in one fell swoop 
he beheaded the filthy creature and rushed the next. Legolas took aim and fired at the 
orcs that made up the back ranks of the squad. He wanted to make sure that Haldir 
wouldn’t be overwhelmed as he handled the front flank. Haldir fought wildly, taking 
down one opponent after another.

	Working together as they did, Legolas and Haldir reduced the orcs very quickly 
form a strong force to a mere squealing few. Once Legolas had killed three more with his 
arrows, what was left of the cowardly creatures began to retreat back to the fowl pits 
from whence they came. Legolas was ready to stand down when a scream penetrated him 
to his very core for it was not the cry of an orc.

	Legolas’ head snapped in the direction the scream had come from and he beheld a 
shocking sight. Haldir was bleeding from his left shoulder and he was desperately trying 
to fend off a large orc. But the creature had the upper hand and soon knocked Haldir to 
the ground. 
“NO, HALDIR!” Legolas cried as he ran to Haldir’s aid.

	Haldir cringed in pain; he had gotten careless while fighting the beast and left his 
shoulder open allowing the orc a lucky swipe with its sword. Now it looked as though the 
orc had full advantage. Haldir looked up to see the fell creature standing over him with its 
sword held high above its head. The air seemed to freeze and everything went deathly 
quiet as the orc brought the blade down for the deathblow; Haldir braced himself and shut 
his eyes. He awaited the strike that would end his life but it never came. Instead he heard 
the creature shriek; he looked up to see an arrow protruding from the creature’s eye. The 
orc stumbled for a second before falling to the ground in a crumpled heap.

	Legolas had fired just in time and was able to save Haldir’s life. But the danger 
was not over, Haldir was injured and bleeding and Legolas rushed to his side. “Haldir 
you are bleeding.” He cried as he tried to assess Haldir’s condition. Without even 
thinking he reached beneath his green tunic and ripped of a piece of fabric from his silver 
under shirt. He wadded it up into a ball and stuffed it into the tear of Haldir’s gray over-
tunic in attempt to clean the wound. “Hold this here…” He placed Haldir’s right hand 
over the cloth-covered injury. “Put pressure on it to stop the bleeding. I shall call the 
horses back.”

	Haldir sat up and applied pressure to his wound as instructed. He could see the 
body of his would-be killer not to far away from him; it had been so long since he had 
had a real fight and he cursed himself for letting his skills fade to the point where he had 
to be saved-by a royal brat no less.

	Legolas let out a shrill whistle and within minutes their two horses came out of 
hiding. Legolas took both animals by the reigns and he took extra care as to not spook the 
already very nervous animals. By the time he made it back to Haldir, he was already 
standing. He sheathed his sword and made his way to his horse. He knew it was going to 
be difficult to mount it with only one good arm but he tried anyway. Naturally, he slipped 
right off and would’ve fallen to the ground had Legolas not been there to catch him. 
“Here let me help you.” Legolas’ voice was still shaking and his hands were unsteady as 
well.

“I am fine and I can do this myself. I do not need your aid!” Haldir said coldly and he 
shrugged Legolas away from him. 

“Why do you have to be so cold all the time, I just want to help you.” Legolas sounded 
like he was going to cry or something.

“Listen prince I do not need your help now get back!” Haldir spat at him
.
“I beg to differ. That thing would have of killed you if I had not intervened. Further more 
you wouldn’t have needed me to save you if you hadn’t thrown yourself into the fray so 
carelessly in the first place!”

	Haldir had enough of this, how dare anyone tell him how to do battle with his 
enemies. “What do you care? I have my own way of fighting my enemies and if it earns 
me my death then it’s my consequence! I do not see why you should care so much!” 
Haldir sounded colder than ever but Legolas knew there was no turning back now.

“But I do care. Because…BECAUSE I LOVE YOU HALDIR!” Legolas shouted at the 
top of his lungs; he proclamation echoed throughout the darkness of the wood. 

TBC in part three- Capture




Take My Hand

By Noelwing

Part Three: Capture

	Legolas slapped his hand over his mouth so fast that his lips stung from the 
impact. His eyes were wide with shock and his breathing came in brief deep pants. The 
hand that cupped his mouth securely was shaking as well. The two elves were deathly 
silent and the only noise were the breaths muffled by Legolas’ hand. 
      
      “What did you say?” Haldir said, finally breaking the silence. His voice was flat, 
completely devoid of emotion. Legolas dropped his hand away from his mouth but he 
couldn’t find the courage to speak. Haldir didn’t even look like himself, not to Legolas 
anyway. His face was a mask of cold furry and his steel-gray eyes seemed to drill right 
into Legolas’ soul; he looked almost terrifying to the prince. 
      
      Legolas couldn’t believe what he had just done, he had confessed his feelings for 
Haldir; a secret he had been keeping for nearly thirty years. Haldir’s cold expression was 
daunting and Legolas didn’t know what to expect from him. Legolas looked into those 
stormy gray eyes and he felt his courage suddenly return to him. The words he had 
wanted to say for decades had finally made it past his lips; he couldn’t falter now. “I love 
you. I have since the day I first met you, when you were there to greet and escort my 
family and I to Caras Galadhon. I have wanted to tell you for what feels like an eternity 
to me, but you never let me get close to you so I could not confess my love for you. But 
now I have and it is the truth-I love you. There I said it.” Legolas never broke Haldir’s 
gaze the whole time.
      
      Haldir tried to stare the prince down but the youth did not waiver under his 
scrutinizing gaze. He couldn’t believe what he had just heard; no one in Haldir’s whole 
life had ever told him that they were in love with him. The words sounded so alien to him 
and strange feelings began to well up inside of his heart; it frightened him and he reacted 
without thought. “Are you stupid?” Haldir laughed bitterly. “You hardly know anything 
about me, how could you possibly love me. Sorry prince but I feel nothing of the sort for 
you nor could I ever. I have far better things in my life to worry about than the silly 
feelings of a spoiled child.” His words were so hurtful and Haldir didn’t even recognize 
his own voice, nor what had come over him. “Don’t worry though I fully intend to deliver 
you safely back to your parents but it’s only because I was assigned to. In truth I do not 
wish to even be here!”
      
“Then why are you still here!” Legolas cried.

“Because Galadriel asked me to, that’s why. Now I would like to get moving again, the 
sooner I get you back to Mirkwood the sooner I can return to Lothlórien.” Legolas’ head 
dropped and Haldir thought he would be sick if the prince started crying. But Legolas 
simply raised his head; his face was blank, as he looked Haldir straight in the eye.
 
“I see.” Was all that Legolas said.

      Haldir used his good arm and hauled himself upon the back of his horse; he 
gritted his teeth to stifle the groan from the pain that fired from the wound in his left 
shoulder. Legolas went back over to spot where he had dropped the map completely 
ignoring the corpses of orcs that he had to kick aside. He collected the wadded up paper 
as well as his used arrows and placed them into the quiver on his back. He checked the 
map one last time to make sure he knew the correct path to take and indicated to it with 
his finger before he to leapt upon the back of his horse.
      
      Haldir let the prince lead the way out of the dark wood and they passed in total 
silence. It wasn’t long before they were back on the right path and heading toward 
Mirkwood once again. Haldir could feel his blood boiling; he didn’t want to admit that he 
had taken the wrong way and by doing so had put the prince in mortal danger. On top of 
all that he had to be rescued by Legolas only to find that he was the object of the royal 
brat’s affection and the pain in his shoulder did not help things at all. As they rode on 
Haldir tried to inspect his wound; it was a small gash and it was still bleeding but it was 
nothing serious, it would heal in a day or two. Haldir continued to apply pressure to the 
wound, pressing the piece of Legolas’ tunic to the injury. 
      
      				********
      Afternoon melted into twilight and the two elves found themselves in more 
familiar and friendly territory. However, the only sounds were the songs of birds and the 
chirping of crickets for Haldir and Legolas said not a word to each other. It had been that 
way for the entire day.
      
      The strength of the horses faded and the animals began to neigh and fidget with 
fatigue and the two elves stopped and made camp for the night. As Legolas built a fire 
Haldir checked his wound. He was happy to see that his elven healing powers had taken 
effect and his wound was already closed, and within another day it should heal entirely. 
Haldir reached into his saddlebag and pulled a fresh bandage out of the first aid bag and 
applied it to his wound, it stung ever so slightly because of the healing liquid that elves 
soaked their bandages in, but it passed as quickly as it had come.
      
       He was about to discard the old bandage when he remembered that it was a piece 
of Legolas’ tunic. The silver material had been stained with blood but it felt soft and 
smooth between his fingers. How spoiled Legolas must be to have such fine material to 
make even his travel clothes out of. Haldir turned around only to find that Legolas had 
already retired for the night.  As he looked at the slumbering prince his mind replayed the 
prince’s plea of love to him earlier that day. Haldir’s heart skipped a beat as an 
indescribable feeling welled up inside of his soul and he clutched the ruined fabric in his 
hand. Whatever Legolas had stirred up in him, he wasn’t sure if he liked it or not. Haldir 
shook his head violently trying to stifle the feeling and fall into his own thoughts. He 
figured he best retire as well but before he removed his saddlebags and tended his horse; 
he unconsciously tucked the blood stained fabric away within the folds of his own tunic.
      
      				********
      
      By the next day things had not improved much between the two travelers. It was 
true that they were speaking again but it was only to discuss travel plans and nothing else. 
Today they would be traveling upon a trail that was actually an old riverbed and they had 
to plot their path carefully. It was a task that couldn’t be achieved without at least some 
communication.
      
      By noon they had cleared the riverbed and decided it was safe to quicken there 
pace and so they went on in a steady gallop. They hadn’t been going for long when 
Haldir’s horse suddenly reared, an action throwing the rider to the ground. Haldir landed 
on his back- hard among the stones and twigs that made up the trail. “HALDIR!” Legolas 
cried as he turned his horse to assist Haldir.
      
      Legolas jumped from his steed and went to his fallen companion and pulled him 
to his feet. Haldir instantly clutched his injured shoulder trying to soothe the pain that 
burned into his Muscles. “Here, let me see.” Legolas said as he tried to remove Haldir’s 
hand away from the bandaged shoulder.

“I’m alright!” Haldir spat as he batted away the prince’s hands. “Don’t touch me alright! 
I have to attend to my horse.” He shrugged the prince aside a lot colder than even he 
intended to; he just didn’t feel like being babied at the time; especially by Legolas.

	Haldir’s horse was just a yard ahead of him limping pathetically. It seemed to be 
having trouble supporting itself upon its front- right hoof and Haldir was cautious not to 
spook the animal while he inspected it. The horse trusted its master not to harm it and 
obediently raised its hoof so that its master might look at it. Sure enough, a jagged stone 
had become lodged in the horses hoof and that’s why it threw Haldir the way it had. 
Haldir cautiously removed the stone from the horse’s hoof leaving the horse graciously 
relieved.

	“I think he will be just fine but I can not ride him like this; it will cause him to 
much pain.” He went quiet for a minute as he mused over a course of action. He lifted the 
horse’s hoof again. “Legolas, inside of my saddlebag is a first aid bad. Can you hand it to 
me?” Legolas silently complied and retrieved the first aid bag as he was asked. Legolas 
Was glad to hear Haldir’s voice again but he hated how cold Haldir talked to him like he 
wanted to keep a wall between the two of them. 

	“That wound will need at least a day to heal.” Legolas said in concern. “You can 
ride on my horse with me until then.” Haldir made no reply and Legolas had a feeling as 
to why Haldir didn’t respond to his suggestion. He regretted ever opening his mouth.

	Legolas watched as Haldir pulled a wad of cloths from his first aid bag and 
gingerly wrapped the animal’s hoof in the cloth. Legolas could tell by Haldir’s audible 
breaths that he was concentrating very hard on his task. He made sure the horse’s 
bandage was comfortable yet secure. As soon as he released the horse’s foot it began to 
shake its hoof trying to rid its self of the bindings. Haldir took hold of the animal’s reigns 
to steady the horse and he muttered words of endearment while he stroked the horse’s 
mane. With a neigh the horse stopped its struggles and calmed down. 

	Legolas was beginning to think that Haldir had a split personality. One side was 
cold, always focused on duty and said what ever he wanted regardless of the feelings of 
others and it was the side that Legolas was most familiar with. But the side he was seeing 
now was so different; this side was gentle, had great respect and care and even seemed 
loving. Legolas knew that Haldir had turned him away and Legolas used every fiber of 
his will power to keep his heart from shattering completely. But hope of still reaching 
Haldir still lingered within the prince’s heart. Haldir’s display of care towards his horse 
was proof beyond doubt that Haldir had a compassionate side and Legolas wondered why 
Haldir wanted to keep it hidden from the world.

	Once again, Haldir felt eyes upon him and he turned his eyes towards the prince 
of Mirkwood. Sure enough, the prince was staring at him again. Only this time he paid no 
heed to fact that he had been caught and just kept staring. Legolas’ face betrayed no 
emotion, only his eyes did. Haldir could see a storm of feelings that he couldn’t even 
begin to describe floating within Legolas’ eyes and he couldn’t even imagine what was 
going on within the prince’s head.

	“Haldir please…” His voice shook like one on the brink of tears. “I meant what I 
said to you the other day, I…I was not lying to you at all.” Legolas stood as still as a tree 
on a windless day. Haldir honestly wasn’t in the mood for this right now. He thought he 
had made it crystal clear to Legolas that he was not interested in his feelings weather they 
be true or not. But something about the prince’s lithe figure held him. He had to admit 
that Legolas was attractive- physically anyway. A part of Haldir felt kind of proud 
(though he would never admit it) that he had caught the attention of such a beautiful 
creature. But was it love or lust that Legolas had for him? Haldir didn’t know why but he 
had to find out and he knew just how to do it to.

	In a heart beat Haldir was standing only a breath apart from Legolas’ face. For the 
first time Legolas had a chance to see those steel- gray eyes of Haldir’s up close and he 
had no idea what to expect. But he didn’t care really; Haldir was right in front of him and 
Legolas wasn’t going to do anything to drive him away.

	Haldir raised his hand and gently cupped the prince’s face. Legolas gasped ever 
so slightly as he felt a firm yet warm hand make contact with his face. Legolas was not 
used to being touched at all and his first initial instinct was to push the hand that was now 
lightly caressing his cheek away. But his body said otherwise and he could not control it. 
His heart raced and he could feel his skin tingle as Haldir’s thumb brushed over his lips. 
A wild thought came into his mind suddenly- maybe Haldir was going to kiss him. The 
thought elicited another gasp from him and he blushed madly. 

	Haldir could feel Legolas stir under his ministrations and he placed his left hand 
upon Legolas’ shoulder to steady him while his right hand continued to explore the 
prince’s face. Legolas’ eyes were half shut by now, Haldir growing bolder, rubbed his 
thumb over the pronounced cheekbone while his middle finger reached and caressed the 
point of Legolas’ ear. The prince reacted as Haldir expected him to, he shut his eyes 
completely and the blush upon his cheeks deepened. The hand that rested upon Legolas’ 
shoulder moved on its own accord and found its way to the flesh of Legolas’ neck. He 
could feel a pulse thudding under the skin and Haldir’s own body was beginning to react 
a bit. The sensuous moans, the soft ivory flesh and of course those rosy lips; all of it was 
indeed very tempting. But if there was anything Haldir prided upon more it was his self- 
control.
 
	Legolas felt like he was floating and he wanted to lean into those hands that 
caressed his face and neck. But his bliss was terminated when the hands that touched him 
so gingerly suddenly griped his chin and shoulder and than all to quickly shoved him 
away. Legolas’ heart was still pounding and his skin tingled as well. What was he feeling, 
why did Haldir push him away and why was his heart aching? “Wha…What’s wrong? 
Why did you do that?” Legolas cupped the cheek that Haldir had touched with his own 
hand. Why he trying to preserve the feeling, he didn’t know.

	“I wonder, do you respond to every touch so wantonly? Haldir said looking as 
smug than ever.

“I do not understand what you mean by that.” Legolas’ hand fell away form his face, his 
features twisted into confusion and to Haldir; he looked very pathetic. But Haldir didn’t 
care if he hurt the prince’s feelings or not, nothing was going to stop him from making 
his point.

	“You tell me you are not used to being touched by another yet you seem to be 
very comfortable with my touch. How do I know that you would not respond the same 
way to the touch of another?”

“You mean that you…you think I am some kind of whore?” He took in deep breaths of 
air as control over his emotions began to wane. Legolas’ heart clenched in his chest; he 
didn’t want to believe Haldir’s words. ”No, I let you touch me because I wanted you to. I 
want you to touch me.” Legolas reached out with his own hand and tried to touch 
Haldir’s face, it was a desperate attempt to try and show his own affection.  

	Haldir flinched away from the touch and completely disregarded the look of 
devastation upon Legolas’ face. He glared at the hand that made no move to touch him 
and just floated inches from his face. “Do you even know what you sound like? You are 
so pathetic begging for touch like this. How could I possibly want to touch something as 
weak and pathetic as you?” Haldir’s words were colder than the bitterest winter on earth 
and tears flowed freely from Legolas’ eyes. Again Haldir didn’t care and some malicious 
fiber in his being took a grim satisfaction in knowing that he was only a few more words 
away from thoroughly breaking Legolas’ heart and for some reason, he wanted to. “So 
long as you are like this I promise you that no one will ever love you. You will simply 
become a whore looking for love and you will go from one bed to another; that is if you 
aren’t already…” His sentence was cut of by a loud cracking noise that echoed through 
the wood so loudly that birds were startled from their perches. It was caused when 
Legolas’ palm connected with the flesh of Haldir’s face.
	
      Haldir’s hand immediately covered the side of his face where Legolas had slapped 
him. He pressed hard against the stinging flesh but it did little to dull the pain. He was 
really angry now and he wanted nothing more than to hit Legolas; he didn’t care if he 
was hitting royalty he just wanted that little brat to suffer. But before he could do 
anything Legolas had mounted his own horse and was taking off. Haldir looked to 
Legolas’ face, he was blazing with anger and hot tears of pain flowed down his cheeks. 
“You are colder than the peaks of mount Caradhras.” And he dashed off in the direction 
of his homeland. 
      
      Haldir was fuming and he kicked at the ground and let out a wail of frustration. 
What a nightmare this trip had become. His shoulder and now his face was in agony, his 
horse had a damaged hoof and couldn’t be ridden at the time and to top it all off, his royal 
protectorate had taken off on his own. Haldir knew that he promised Galadriel that he 
would look after the prince but at the moment he couldn’t care less about the promise or 
the royal brat. “Honestly, Legolas is an adult elf, he can find his own cursed way home.” 
Home, yes, that’s where Haldir wanted to be as well. The thought of Lothlorien made his 
head cool and with a frustrated sigh he turned to his horse. “Come on, let’s go home.” He 
said in a rather flat and defeated tone. The horse neighed and let its master lead it by the 
reigns. Haldir treaded the path slowly; it was strange, his mind was completely oblivious 
to all that had transpired between him in the prince. All he could really think about was 
how in the world was he going to explain all of this to lady Galadriel.
      
      				********
      
      Legolas pushed his horse to go as fast as it could through the dense forest. He 
wanted to put as much distance between him and Haldir as possible. But no matter how 
many paces were between them now Legolas just couldn’t get the image of Haldir’s face 
out of his mind or his cold words out of his head. /Haldir thinks I’m a whore, no it isn’t 
true/ Legolas kept repeating the thought inside of his mind. Legolas knew now more than 
ever that Haldir had no feelings other than contempt for him inside of his heart and 
Legolas cursed himself a fool for even loving him in the first place. How could he have 
of fallen for some one who was so frigid and bitter.
       
      But yet he still felt his skin tingle form the memory of Haldir’s touch. The way 
his heart raced and his face flustered; it still held the prince to his hope that he could 
make the march-warden of Lothlorien love him. This in turn was balanced out Haldir’s 
slanderous accusation of Legolas being a whore; knowing that was Haldir’s true opinion 
of him sent Legolas into a spiral of tears and racking sobs.
      
      All he cared about now was getting back home to Mirkwood, yes everything 
would be fine once he got back to Mirkwood. No one needed to know about this, no one. 
He could bottle it up inside of him, he could immerse him self in study and sword play; 
he could forget all of this, he could forget Haldir. “Yes, try to forget.” He told himself, “I 
don’t have to go to Lothlórien ever again. Just try to forget, try to forget.” His heartbeat 
and breathing returned to normal but his vision was still blurry with tears but cared not to 
wipe them away. He didn’t care for anything other than getting home at the moment, he 
didn’t care if Haldir was following, he didn’t care.  He let his horse go at the pace it 
desired through the forest. Legolas let himself be calmed by the rocking of the horse’s 
movements; he was in an almost trance like state and completely oblivious to the world 
around him. 
      
      Suddenly, the ground beneath the horse began to buckle and an unexpected jolt 
brought Legolas back to reality. He looked at the ground and noticed that it was 
beginning to break and give out under the weight of the horse. Legolas realized with 
horror that he had walked into some kind of pit- trap. Who had made the trap and for 
what purpose mattered little to Legolas, he had to get himself out of there. He spurred his 
hose to make a leap for solid ground but it was too late, the last of the trap’s cover gave 
out under the horse’s weight and Legolas was thrown from the hoses back and was 
falling. He screamed as loud as he could before the impact with the ground knocked 
every last breath from his body. 
      				*******
      A scream of terror ran through the forest and made its way to Haldir’s ears. He 
stopped dead in his tracks as he tried to determine where the sound had come from. He 
didn’t have to try hard; he knew that it was Legolas who had produced that sound. Before 
Haldir even knew it he was bounding through the woods to try and find Legolas. He 
completely through aside any personal issues he had with Legolas, he had a duty as a 
soldier of Galadriel to protect the prince.

	Haldir deliberately left his horse behind because the animal’s wounded hoof 
would only slow him down and Haldir needed to get to Legolas as fast as possible. Using 
the speed that his people were blessed with Haldir quickly found the tracks left behind by 
Legolas’ horse and followed them along the path. As he got closer he could here the 
panicked sounds of a horse and Haldir quickened his stride.

	His eyes finally caught site of something moving and he realized that it was 
Legolas’ horse. The animal looked to be well but where was its rider? It was only until 
Haldir got closer that he became aware of the deep dark pit at the horse’s feet. 

	Haldir moved cautiously towards the mouth of the gapping pit; the edge was still 
unstable and chunks of earth were breaking off and falling into the pit. Haldir found a 
secure spot and peered into the darkness. His eyes instantly feel upon the flaxen hair of 
Legolas who lay stricken at the bottom of the pit.

	Legolas lay on his back and his arms and legs were sprawled all about him. By all 
appearances he did not seem to be conscious; Haldir wondered if Legolas was even still 
alive. “LEGOLAS, LEGOLAS CAN YOU HERE ME!” Haldir cried into the darkness 
but there was no answer. So he kept trying, he refused to believe that Legolas was dead.

	Legolas was wrapped in the dark. He wondered how long he had been there, how 
much longer would he be here? Slowly his mind began to work again and he began to 
remember how he had come to the darkness in the first place. He remembered the ground 
beginning to break under the feet of his horse. He had tried to get both the animal and 
himself off of the trap but that’s when the animal reared, he supposed, and he fell to the 
bottom. Miraculously the horse managed to make it to the other side of the trap and not 
fall in. 
	
	The memories of the fall kept playing themselves over and over but than suddenly 
something new made its self known- a voice. /Whose calling me? / Legolas was sure he 
could hear the voice calling his name. Bracing himself, he opened his eyes to see walls of 
earth all around him. There was an opening at least ten feet above him that he could see 
and peering over the edge was Haldir.

	Haldir was relived to here a moan from Legolas and he knew now that Legolas 
was still alive. “LEGOLAS, ARE YOU ALL RIGHT!” He shouted to Legolas who still 
lay at the bottom of the pit. 

“Haldir…I…fell.” Legolas wasn’t sure if Haldir could here him or not, he felt like he 
used every last bit of strength he had yet all he managed to achieve was that pitiful 
sentence.

	Haldir heard Legolas’ weak cry and he knew that Legolas was incapable of 
climbing out of the pit on his own; Haldir knew he would have to go in there himself and 
bring Legolas out. “Legolas be still, I’m coming down to get you.” Another moan was 
enough to let Haldir know that Legolas heard him. Haldir went to Legolas’ horse and 
began sifting through the saddlebags; he prayed to the Valar that the prince had a rope in 
one of his bags. If he didn’t Haldir would have to run back to his own horse and get his 
rope. But if he did that he would have to leave Legolas by himself in the trap and he 
didn’t want to do that because who ever had constructed that trap took great care in doing 
so and they would surely be back. Thankfully his prayers were answered inside the 
smaller bag was a length of rope and it would be just right for the job.

	Legolas was told to stay still but he tried to move anyway. He twitched his fingers 
and jerked his arms. There was no pain in his limbs so none of them could be broken; he 
could only feel pain when he tried to move his back. His whole body went numb and he 
felt his stomach turn. He let out a defeated sigh and ceased all movements; maybe he was 
hurt a lot worse than he thought? He wondered if he was still suffering from the fall or 
what if he had broken his back. He was frightened by the uncertainty of his condition but 
he stayed extremely calm. He was calm because Haldir was coming to rescue him.

       He looked up at the opening of the hole and he could see Haldir standing at the 
edge once again. Haldir looked like he was fumbling with something and then Legolas 
saw Haldir throw what looked like a silvery thread into the hole; it was a rope. “Legolas, 
hold on, I’m coming to get you.” Legolas could see Haldir give the rope a pull; he 
must’ve tied the other end of the rope to a tree and was testing its strength. Legolas could 
see Haldir looking down at him again and that’s when he noticed two dark silhouettes 
looming over the march- warden; Legolas tried to scream a warning but it was too late.
       
      Haldir was ready to lower himself into the hole when he noticed a panicked 
expression upon Legolas’ face. Again Legolas made some kind of sound but Haldir 
couldn’t make it out. He suddenly felt a presence behind him and it was quickly followed 
by a cold numbing pain that originated at the back of his neck and traveled all the way to 
his fingertips. The rope dropped from his listless fingers and Haldir fell to his knees 
before the darkness swallowed him as well.
      
      Two armored figures stood back to admire their quarry. The one holding the club 
had never been so proud in all his life; he had managed to sneak up and take out an elf. 
Both men were very proud for they knew that their leader would surly reward them 
graciously for the capture of two elves that would prove to be very useful slaves. 

TBC in part four-Reconciliation