A/N: Another chapter for you guys! So I know I didn't upload on Thursday, partly to see if anyone would actually respond to it and because I've started work now so I won't be able to upload twice a week. I will hopefully be uploading every Monday so you'll still get a chapter.
This is our second chapter in Lothlorien and a bit of training! We got some more Haldir Thariya interaction which I enjoy, this chapter is a bit more domestic and its about Thariya trying to find her anchor. Also there's some fluff, enjoy guys!
Thanks to the people who follow and favourite it is appreciated: wweharrypottertwilight fan, windwolf1988. And my lovely reviewers!
cardcaptor-kanna: Here's the update for you! Of course they will get closer, but all have their ups and downs... Okay so Rohirrim are traditionally blonde haired and fair skinned. But I established Thariya has brown skin and dark brown hair, so it's presumed she's from the south. I haven't explored her parentage yet and I may not but that might change. So stay tuned!
MistressedElf: Who knows? Plotting world domination maybe xD
- Angels and Douchebags
A few days later
"Hand to hand combat is very important if you happen to lose your weapons. Have you any training in such?" Legolas asked Thariya as they both placed their bows down, after archery practise.
It was a little past midday and some of the sun rays had streamed in through the thick branches of the mallorn trees. But the air was chilling, winter was truly around them. However the two companions were warm with a sheen of sweat covering their faces from the intense training.
I have a question. Thariya paused their training as Legolas gestured for her to answer.
You saw how I fought in the chambers in Moria. As if I had been fighting with a sword my whole life, I felt my movements fluid. So why is it I cannot fight like that now? She asked.
Legolas thought for a moment before answering.
"I suspect it has something to do with the dark energy you tapped into. It gave you the power of having no fear of death, and confidence. But I would not recommend using it again." Legolas said darkly.
Of course. Thariya agreed. But she couldn't help but wonder if she could use that ability without the darkness seeping into her mind and invading her very soul.
The short respite in Lothlorien had provided Legolas with ample time to improve Thariya's training. She was proficient with a sword but he wanted to make sure she was able to defend and protect herself at all times, when he was not there to help her.
Elladan and Elrohir taught me some blocks. But I have no experiencing with my hands. Thariya said uneasily.
She had not previously thought that she may ever be without Elladan's bow or Elrohir's sword, but Legolas and Aragorn had taught her, she needed to be prepared for all possible circumstances.
"Okay, I will teach you some basic punches and attacks you can perform with your hands." Legolas stated.
Okay. Thariya was unsure of this lesson, she had improved remarkably in the few days they had been here but she did not like the idea of being without her weapons.
"First rule is to always keep your hands up. You need to protect your chin, like this and keep one hand into a fist in front of that hand." Legolas stood beside her and showed.
Thariya mimicked his stance the best she could as Legolas watched her. He took her hand and pushed it up next to her chin. He bent her knees.
"Keep your feet slightly apart to allow yourself some balance." Legolas instructed as she mimicked.
"Now what will be most effective is a straight punch or even jab to throat. It blocks their breathing and most importantly gives you time." Legolas explained.
Time for what?
"Time to run."
Run? I thought you were teaching me to fight Legolas? Thariya dropped her stance confused.
"Do not misunderstand me Thariya. You must only fight like this when there is no other way, if you can run you must run. Do you understand?" He stated in a serious tone as Thariya nodded.
What about you?
Legolas' face dropped into a smile.
"Remember I have had two thousand years of experience in fighting, so do not necessarily do what I do. I am teaching you in case I am not around to protect you." He said kindly.
Thariya paused in deep thought. She did not like that idea. She firmly believed, no she assumed that he would be around to help her. She was a skilled swordsman and her archery skills improved, but she did not know how she would fare by herself.
Okay. She said resuming the stance.
"Now punch me." Legolas stood opposite her as they were toe to toe.
What? Thariya almost laughed.
"Punch me Thariya." Legolas instructed his face serious.
Okay. She shrugged.
She threw her left fist forward aiming for his face. Legolas ducked around her arm and in a flash he was behind her with his arm around her neck and her back pressed into his chest.
He released her as she breathed deeply turning around to face him in annoyance. Legolas had a stupid smirk on his face, struggling not to laugh at her surprise.
Do not say a word. I think you have made your point. She pointed a finger at him.
"You see mellon, hand-to-hand combat is very important to learn." Legolas tried to resist the smile on his face.
Are you done mocking me? Thariya asked, her eyebrows raised.
"Yes, I apologise. Now let's go again."
...
Mid-afternoon and Thariya was lounging on one of the chairs littered in the pavilion. The afternoon sun streamed in through the cracks in the trees, providing warmth in the cold winter. Thariya was dressed in a silver gown, her feet tucked in beneath her as she read a romance novel.
Haldir had directed her to the library the day after they had arrived in the city. He was reluctant to admit but he enjoyed their small fleeting conversations. She was not ignorant like other mortals and the responsibility on her shoulders allowed a certain wisdom from her. If anything she was more like an elleth than a human. She brought out the caring, kind side in Haldir, a vulnerability he did not openly show.
He had shown great interest in her relationship with Prince Legolas. In fact he had even been so bold as to ask her if they were courting.
She laughed to herself. What a strange thought! She had spent the last month travelling learning about Legolas and becoming friends, the thought of courtship was funny to her.
"What are you thinking about?" She snapped out of her thoughts to find Frodo standing in front of her.
She gave him a warm smile before reaching for the notebook by the table.
Just how the Marchwarden thinks that Legolas wishes to court me. She wrote.
Frodo read her words and his lips quirked upwards in a smile then a chuckle.
"Well it's not the most ridiculous assumption." Frodo stated. Thariya gave him an incredulous look with raised eyebrows. She moved her feet down allowing the young hobbit to sit beside her.
"I just mean that you spend a lot of time with Legolas, much more than anyone else." He explained sitting down.
Really? You think so? She asked watching his serious face.
"Yes, I feel we have not had a chance to talk more on this quest." Frodo gave her a small smile.
Thairya felt her heart break slightly at his words. He wasn't wrong. She had spent a lot of time with the elf, just because she connected with him so easily and the fact she could talk to him in his mind too. But she had made a vow of protection to the young hobbit.
I am sorry. I am supposed to be looking out for you. She wrote apologetically.
"It is alright. We still have much of the journey to go through." Frodo reassured.
"Before Gandalf passed, you had a vision of his death didn't you?" Frodo turned to face her as Thariya's eyes widened.
Yes but how did you know?
"When you woke up, I think whatever caused you to sleep must have been so bad. And you seemed so distraught about Gandalf before that creature took him, like he was already dead. I just put two and two together." Frodo explained.
You are very perceptive. She wrote.
Frodo I feel like I have no control over these visions. Like I cannot stop them. Thariya wrote confiding in him.
"Perhaps you are not meant to stop them. Perhaps you are meant to let them play out or even change them." Frodo suggested.
Thariya paused. Maybe he was right, these could have been fixed events in time she had no control over. She watched Frodo who looked extremely troubled.
What's wrong? You seem concerned. She noted down.
"The first night we got arrived, Lady Galadriel took me to a fountain of water. She asked me to look in the water and tell her what I saw." Frodo began as Thariya listened.
"I looked in and I saw the Fellowship, turning their backs on me. The waters then changed to my home Bag End in the Shire. Suddenly there were orcs and the Shire had turned into an industrial wasteland, all the hobbits were slaves in chains. And then I saw Him." Frodo gulped fearfully.
She placed a reassuring hand on his arm, knowing exactly what it was like to see that terrible flaming eye. Ever-watching and terrifying.
Why did she show you this?
"She said this is what would come to pass if I should fail in my quest." Frodo sighed. His hair flopped forward as Thariya peeked at the gold chain from underneath his shirt.
Her eyes fixed on the Ring as it started calling her name. She could feel the dark energy drawing her nearer, she did not even realise her outstretched hand. Her mind thought back to Elladan and how he would want her to be strong and she stopped herself; heaving loudly.
But Frodo had not noticed her attempt on the Ring. She moved further away from him to remove temptation but came to realisation. If she could stop herself then she could stop Boromir.
Frodo we are with you. I will protect you and ensure that you succeed in your quest. She wrote firmly on the paper.
Why do you not confide in Sam about this? She asked him.
"I feel he won't understand. I came to you because we are both burdened with great power." Frodo explained shyly.
Thariya placed a hand on his shoulder turning him to face her.
You may come to me anytime you like. She gave him a wide smile as he returned it.
"Oh there he is! I told ya." The two companions looked ahead where the three hobbits were making their way down to them.
"Oh hello Thariya." Merry said gladly.
Hello Merry, Pippin and Sam! She wrote as the hobbits appeared to be in high spirits.
"Where have you all just come from?" Frodo asked noting their upbeat behaviour.
"We were raiding the Elvish kitchen." Pippin grinned cheekily as Thariya smiled.
"I trust your efforts were successful?" Frodo asked a glint in his eye.
"Sam!" Merry nudged him.
Sam took out his hands from behind his back and revealed a set of uncooked sausages.
"Sausages!" Frodo asked in surprise.
"We were just as shocked as you Mr Frodo." Sam replied happily.
And what do you plan on doing with them in here?" Thariya asked.
"Cook them of course! Who knows when we'll get this next time." Pippin asked.
"I told you not to take the whole lot! We had better eat them before the Marchwarden sees." Sam said worriedly glancing towards the staircase.
"Oh hush Sam, we'll be fine." Merry said nonchalantly.
Do not worry, I won't tell. She placed a finger on her nose.
"Do you want some Thariya?" Pippin asked.
No you fellows enjoy your contraband sausages. She smiled standing up to take her leave.
"Where are you going?" Merry called out.
Thariya waved to the hobbits who began setting up twigs and branches to make a fire. She supressed a chuckle. Haldir would have their heads if he knew.
Haldir! She gasped in surprise seeing the elf walking up the steps to enter the pavilion.
Lady Thariya. Haldir blinked at her suspicious behaviour.
Where are you going? She asked, trying to block the path with her body.
"I was on my way to find you actually. But I am also looking for the hobbits, have you seen them?" He asked crossing his elbows.
I believe I saw them in the marketplace not too long ago. Perhaps we can check there? Thariya said.
And before giving him a chance to reply, she took his arm and half dragged him down the steps until they reached the long wooden corridor.
"You are an odd one." Haldir noted as she released his arm and they walked.
I am not odd. She said defensively.
If anyone is odd, it is you.
"Oh?" Haldir raised an eyebrow.
To anyone else it would sound like you are talking out loud to yourself. Thariya suppressed the grin as elleths walked past, watching Haldir strangely and whispering to one another.
Thariya laughed into Haldir's mind whose cheeks were turning pink.
You did that on purpose. He said accusingly.
I would never. She said in mock-defence.
The companions reached the market-place where it was late afternoon. Thariya shivered as a brisk wind blew through Caras Galadhon, the trees providing little defence against the weather.
"You are cold." Haldir pointed out.
A little. It is winter after all. She said, her teeth chattering together. She was dressed in the thin dress with no outer coating. Haldir watched and rolled her eyes at her mortal stubbornness.
"Did you not receive the woollen cloaks I had made for you?" Haldir enquired as he took off his own cloak and placed it around her shoulder.
You made me cloaks? Thariya asked him with her eyebrow raised. She immediately felt warm with his cloak around her shoulders.
"Yes."
Thank you. She nodded gratefully, shocked he had given it to her.
"Well I, I noticed you did not have any and since you are leaving the day after tomorrow I thought you may need it." Haldir stuttered.
Thariya formed a smirk with her mouth, never seeing him so flustered in her company.
You like me. Admit it. One might even go far enough to suggest we are friends. Thariya said.
"Oh please Thariya, I would prefer you not to freeze to death as you are on an important quest. It is simply for the good of Middle Earth." Haldir explained defensively.
I don't believe you. And you just called me Thariya. She spoke smugly gesturing to the warm material on her shoulders.
"That is your name, is it not?" Haldir quirked.
You did not say lady.
"Well you asked me not to and I do not find your company completely terrible." Haldir stated.
Good enough for me. Thariya smiled triumphantly.
"I do not see the hobbits here anywhere." Haldir scanned the surroundings a sour look on his face.
Oh cheer up Haldir I am only teasing. That's what friends do. She nudged him encouragingly.
"I suppose." He relented.
Perhaps they are training? She suggested hoping he would take the bait.
"I think you are hiding them. But I won't bother you about them anymore. I have matters to discuss with you." Haldir said.
I know the place. Thariya gestured for him to follow.
Though the Fellowship had only been here for four days, Thariya had explored and found her way around the city in Lothlorien. She was leading Haldir through the city and past the flets to her favourite tree. The first day she had sat and talked to Legolas. When he had almost...
They arrived at the tree as Thariya sat against the base of the large trunk, the roots twisting around her, to provide seating. It was a tranquil spot and where Thariya came for peace and quiet. More often than not, it was where Thariya tried to work out what her anchor could be.
Haldir stood awkwardly opposite her, watching as she made herself comfortable. Thariya indicated for him to sit and so he did, on the rock facing her.
What did you want to discuss?
"Lady Galadriel and I, believe it is important you learn some basic healing. She also says, you can tap into your magic to aid you." Haldir explained in a soft voice.
Speak freely, hardly anyone ventures here. Thariya said kindly.
Really? I can use my abilities? She asked surprised. She was intrigued that she could use her abilities for the good of her Fellowship.
"Yes, she said to direct your energy to whatever the ailment is and it encourages the tissue to heal faster. She said it can also provide comfort to the victim." Haldir explained.
Right. I am wary of using my powers, it has a habit of getting out of control. Thariya bit her lip remembering how she enjoyed the blood and killing of the orcs.
"Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn are devising a solution for that. It will be ready for you upon your leave." Haldir said cryptically.
A solution? She asked confused.
"I have no knowledge of it, but they said to not worry and trust your instincts." Haldir stated pulling out a fresh white linen.
What's that for?
"I thought we might practise." Haldir pulled out a knife as Thariya's eyes widened and raked it across the palm of his hand, wincing as blood appeared.
"Your companion is bleeding out. What do you do?" Haldir ignored her shock watching her eyes widen at the blood.
She sat motionless staring at Haldir in amazement and incredulity.
"He now has minutes to live." Haldir rolled his eyes.
"Try using your abilities." He gave her a hint.
Right! Thariya placed a hand over the cut and sent out a warm energy which radiated over the wound.
"That feels better." Haldir said in surprise, forming a small smile.
Thariya took the linen and began tearing it into long strips. She took a large section and folded it over to form a padded layer. She pressed it against his palm as the Marchwarden grimaced slightly.
"Good, make sure you soak up as much blood as possible before wrapping the wound." Haldir said approvingly.
Now I wrap it? She checked looking at him.
"I do not know, I am the dying victim." Haldir mocked in a monotone voice as Thariya glared at him.
She took one of the long strips and wrapped it around the padded cloth on his palm. She made several layers and tied it off. It was haphazardly done, but it would do. The blood was no longer soaking through and he could still move his hand.
"Not bad, for your first time." He nodded admittedly.
I think it's pretty good. Thariya smiled at her handiwork.
"I wouldn't go that far, but at least you will have saved the victim's life." He smirked.
I wasn't to know you were going to injure your hand! She exclaimed.
"My teaching methods are more practical than theoretical." Haldir shrugged.
"Now with big wounds the principle is the same. But if they are poisoned, you will need to draw the poison out. You may use your abilities for this, if they are that advanced." Haldir suggested as Thariya nodded taking the information down.
"But if you cannot, herbs such as Athelas are good for this. Aragorn and Legolas will have further knowledge should you need help." Haldir explained.
He launched into more life-saving and healing techniques that Thariya may need in the quest. But in all honesty she felt burdened with the knowledge and concerned that her lack of experience would not benefit her companions.
By the time Haldir had left her to attend to his duties, Thariya began climbing the tree.
But this proved difficult, particularly if you consider she was swarmed in the vastness of Haldir's cloak. She placed her foot off the ledge and leaped to the branch, her foot catching on the root, she twisted it and gasped in pain. She sat a few feet off the ground on the branch, her foot felt like it was burning.
This does not bode well. She groaned at her clumsiness. If Legolas could see her, he would be laughing. Then Thariya remembered what Haldir had said, she could use her abilities. She closed her eyes and reached out her palm towards her twisted ankle. She summoned the energy from within her and could feel the warmth radiating to her hand and outwards onto her ankle. The energy washed over the foot relieving her of the pain as she opened her eyes.
She twiddled her toes and moved her foot back and forth, testing it. It felt much better, no longer twisted but still tender. She smiled triumphantly at her handiwork. Now her abilities were beginning to feel like a blessing.
"I am impressed you managed to get up there all by yourself." A voice said in amusement.
She looked down and below her seeing two figures emerge from the thick undergrowth of bushes. The elf and the ranger came to the base of the tree looking up at her on the branch.
...
"The purpose of this lesson Thariya is to try and find your anchor." Aragorn explained calmly, sitting in front of her.
"From what I understand, it is a person, or a place or a thing. So think of any close attachments." He said.
Thariya looked at Legolas perched on the branch above them giving her an encouraging smile. Thariya thought for a moment writing it down.
I can use Aldburg. She showed them as the two friends looked at each other.
"Is that your cloak?" Legolas asked suddenly after inspecting her for a few minutes.
Both pairs of eyes flitted to the elf watching from the branch. He jumped off and walked to where Thariya is sitting leaning in to look at the cloak.
"Legolas?" Aragorn questioned.
What are you doing? Thariya asked an eyebrow quirked.
"This is your cloak?" Legolas checked.
No I was walking through the city with Haldir and I felt cold. So he let me borrow his. It appears I forgot to give it back! Thariya exclaimed in his mind as she realised the soft material still over her shoulders.
"This is the Marchwarden's." Legolas brows knitted together in confusion then annoyance. Aragorn's eyebrows raised in surprise briefly.
Yes Legolas as I said. I am borrowing it. Thariya reiterated, confused by his reaction.
"I see." He stood back up to lean against the tree.
She shared a look with Aragorn which conveyed how strange his behaviour was.
Legolas are you alright? She spoke only to him. She could feel his hesitation as he answered uneasily.
Yes of course. He answered.
"Let us try this lesson." Aragorn nodded eager to move on. His suspicions about his friend were right, but he did not realise if even the elf or Thariya knew it.
"I am going to pose a threat to you, and you need to neutralise my attack. Remember not kill, just stop me." He stated his intentions as Thariya nodded.
Aragorn pushed her to the ground harshly, his hands placed firmly on her shoulders preventing her escape. She tried to wriggle out of his grasp as Aragorn kept her still. She closed her eyes remembering Aldburg, her beautiful settlement. The calmness, the kind people, her father Rohir. She felt at peace, she sent the feeling, the energy towards Aragorn's fingers as his grip loosened.
"Good." Aragorn smiled encouragingly as Thariya opened her eyes.
Then the peaceful images were replaced with fire and destruction. Huts on fire, people screaming and running for their lives. The wild men laughing in glee at the mayhem. She felt angry, angry at the pain they caused her, and before she knew it, a great surge of power rushed through her pushing Aragorn through the air and hitting his back against the tree.
"Aragorn!" Legolas exclaimed in concern for the ranger who groaned. Thariya jumped up off the ground and rushed towards her friend.
Legolas tell him I am so sorry. I could not control it! She cried anxiously to Legolas who relayed the message.
"It is okay Thariya, I expected this." Aragorn sat up with the help of the elf and Nauth Herdir.
"You did?" Legolas asked quizzically.
"Yes. Thariya you have experienced trauma and pain. I am not surprised that came through. I did not feel your intent to kill me. But rather your anger at what happened. Perhaps Aldburg is not the best anchor to use." Aragorn suggested with a light smile.
He brushed the tears from the Nauth Herdir's face as she returned a smile.
"Maybe a person?" Aragorn asked.
Elladan. Thariya thought, then a pang of guilt went through her. She still missed her company and his smile but she felt guilty for missing him less. She had not thought of him as much as she should have.
Yes. Thariya wrote as Legolas and Aragorn both understood.
"Okay I am going to try again. Try not to throw me." Aragorn joked, trying to diffuse the palpable tension.
Aragorn attacked her again, this time Thariya thought of her moments with Elladan. She hoped the bond was strong enough. It took longer but she pushed Aragorn back with her energy with the right amount of force.
"That is the force we are aiming for. But it took too long." Aragorn thought.
"Perhaps the connection is not as strong." Legolas commented as Thariya's eyes snapped towards him. She could not decipher the curious look over his face, but he appeared almost pleased. No. That can't have been it.
Then what am I supposed to use as an anchor? She wrote.
"Perhaps until you find the right one, use the good parts of Aldburg and your memory of Elladan." Aragorn thought for a moment before replying.
"Try it with me, I am sure Aragorn is tired by now." Legolas offered as he stepped forward but he still felt distant.
Are you sure? She asked Legolas, indicating to throwing Aragorn in the air.
"Yes, I can do it."
...
After Aragorn had left, Thariya and Legolas continued practising her powers and the use of her abilities. Legolas was more receptive to her magic, therefore it took more effort and exertion to block his attacks. She managed to create a wall of energy in defence without damage to her friend. But when she had reached Legolas' mind, something strange happened.
She felt herself trying to influence his way of thinking. To warp his actions.
"Thariya." Legolas spoke in a strained voice.
But the Nauth Herdir could not hear him, she was working her way into his sweet delicious thoughts, she had power over his mind. He was her enemy, she could hurt him.
"Thariya remember this is not who you are." Legolas' voice rang clear in her mind.
At this sound, she remembered where she was and it was only when the thought of hurting her sweet friend, entered her mind she stopped.
Now the two companions were walking side by side back to the city.
I am sorry. She said ashamed after a while.
"Thariya it is not your fault. I am here to help you control your powers. We will do this together." Legolas said.
Thariya nodded numbly taking in the atmosphere around them. There were a few elves and elleths who nodded their respect to Legolas. Which just made her fully realise that he was a Prince. One of royal blood who was respected and held in high regard. And she was mortal. They must have made an odd pair to others.
He was her friend. And she had deliberately tried to hurt him. He had done nothing but protect her, ensure her safety was of the highest priority. And she had failed to control her thirst for power.
Thariya felt a sob choke in her throat as she allowed the grief and pain she had been feeling to flow out of her. She cried out her pain.
Legolas could not bear to see her so distraught. He forgot for a moment, about Haldir's cloak around her. He was worried, she was usually so strong and carefree, but she seemed so vulnerable and small. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close, the top of her head nestled in the crook of his neck.
Legolas was slightly taken aback by her eager closeness but he welcomed it and once again eyed the cloak with disdain.
Legolas' embrace was warm and welcoming to Thariya she wrapped her arms up around his back her head buried in his tunic. He smelled of pine trees and comfort and familiarity. He forgot of how young she was, she had not seen much of the world or none much, like a child in an elf's eyes.
She felt at home. And just for a moment she forgot about her feelings for Elladan, she forgot about the quest and all her burdens.
She allowed herself to be comforted by her friend as he ran a hand soothingly down her hair.
"I am here Thariya. I am here."
A/N: Hope you guys enjoyed that! Until next week, please let me know!