Hi all,

I hope you are keeping healthy. Please watch for your safety and follow all precautions.

I hope this story is offering a bit of a distraction in these difficult times.

As always, reviews and comments are welcome, helpful and greatly appreciated.

-E

A stately greeting awaited the elven delegation. King Elred awaited their arrival with several advisors at his side. The King recognized Haldir immediately, as the marchwarden had accompanied Lord Celeborn on previous visits. He stepped forward to meet the soldier as he dismounted his horse.

"Well met, Haldir!" King Eldred said warmly, clasping the soldier on both shoulders.

"I am happy to see you in good health, your highness" Haldir smiled, returning the King's greeting. Lauren watched on, Haldir exuded confidence and leadership. He was representing the Lord and Lady of Lothlorien, and they would not have been disappointed at how the marchwarden handled himself.

The King's attention shifted to the only female in the elvish party. His eyes were puzzled for a moment as he pondered the beauty before him. Lauren's resemblance to her mother and father were undeniable. The King was a wise man, he knew Elrond had had two daughters.

"Forgive me, I did not know a Princess would be amongst us. You must be Lady Luthien, for you resemble your mother's likeness but your father's influence is undeniable. You are most welcome, we are honoured to have you" the King enthused. He held out his hand and Lauren accepted his help in dismounting her horse.

"King Eldred, it is a pleasure to meet you" Lauren said demurely, accompanied by a curtsy.

"My steward will show you to your quarters in the castle" the King waved. "You have some time to settle in before the feast" he informed them. And with royal wave, a small troop of servants saw to the luggage and horses. The butler bowed deeply and showed Lauren and the rest of the elven group to the castle and their state rooms.

Lauren's room was large and richly decorated. A fire crackled merrily in the fireplace at one corner of the room. The butler had mentioned the room was once the late Queen's private chambers. It was indeed a sign of the King's patronage to be allowed to stay in it. Lauren's luggage had already been sent to her room and now laid in the large wardrobe. Next door, Haldir was being shown to his quarters.

After the butler left, Lauren rifled through her luggage for a suitable dress to wear for the welcome feast. Even though Lauren looked stunning in most things she wore, she chose the attire carefully, wanting to make a good impression. She didn't want to let the family she was representing down. She settled on an emerald gown, a classic elvish cut. Her grandmother had commissioned an entire wardrobe for her. She put her hair in a simple bun, slightly unusual as elves usually left their hair down.

A soft knock at her door interrupted her thoughts. A moment later, the door hesitantly opened. Timid footsteps entered. A barely audible young voice introduced herself. "Your highness, I am Alessa, your chambermaid. If there is nothing you need, Lord Haldir asked that you be told he is waiting for you outside your room. He will accompany you to the feast but would like a word with you first."

Turning around, Lauren saw a young woman barely out of her teens standing in front of the door. The plain chambermaid was wearing a servant's dress, staring at her hands. She seemed incredibly shy and nervous. Lauren softened and politely replied "thank you Alessa. Please dispense with the titles, call me Luthien. Please tell Haldir he can come in for a word."

The chambermaid squeaked "yes my lady" before rushing out the door. Lauren smiled to herself, remembering times in her life when she had been as nervous as the servant in another's presence. She found it humorous that she would be the object of such nerves.

A second set of soft knocks were at her door. This time, they were followed by the steps of a soldier's boots. Haldir walked in.

"Haldir, you wanted a word?" Lauren asked.

The marchwarden paused for a slight moment, taking in Lauren beauty, before returning his attention to the matter at hand. He cleared his throat. "I came to see if you needed anything" he asked kindly.
"No, I'm fine. How do I look?" Lauren asked, she hoped the attire was appropriate for the occasion.

"Beautiful" was the simple reply. Lauren smiled. Haldir continued. "I thought that perhaps, to avoid confusion, we would call you Lady Luthien as our hosts have already taken to it."

"Yes, good idea" the Princess agreed. No need to go over that story. "Well, shall we?" Lauren asked, eyeing Haldir's arm. When he made no move, she chided him in jest "I believe when you accompany a Lady to a feast, you are supposed to hold out your arm so that I may take it."

Haldir looked surprised. He hadn't been sure if Lauren wanted to interact with him as it was plain to him she had been avoiding him. Seeming to read his mind, Lauren added "we're here to represent our people aren't we? So we must put anything else aside and carry out our duty." It was the reason she was using to convince herself. Just her duty, nothing more.

"Yes, Luthien, you are right" Haldir murmured. He held out his arm and Lauren took it naturally and they walked arm in arm into the reception.

The head table was a long, rectangular one overseeing the rest of the large room. The King sat in the middle, the place beside him on one side empty, an enduring tribute to his late Queen. Beside the King were Lauren and Haldir's seats. The rest of the nobility and their wives and guests sat at the rest of the long tables in the room. Lauren noted the head table was otherwise empty. The King was sending a message that no noble was his equal. A wise move, Lauren thought, given the nobles of the kingdom were known to be power hungry. Lauren and Haldir were shown to their seats and then the King stood and turned to his guests.

"Long has this Kingdom and the realm of Lothlorien maintained friendly relations. My forefathers saw the benefit of cooperation in defense and trade between our peoples. The elves have shown themselves to be loyal allies. And this Kingdom will remain steadfast in our support for you." He raised his glass in a toast. "To our enduring friendship!"

The rest of the room followed suit. "Now, let us feast and dance!" the King declared. The room broke out in chatter and the food was served.

The King and Haldir ate and drank merrily, chatting throughout the meal. Lauren played her dutiful role and ate quietly.

"The legends are true, Lord Elrond's second daughter is as beautiful as her mother, if not more. The Lord of Rivendell must be beside himself with joy" the King said to Haldir discretely.

With a brief glance at Lauren, Haldir nodded in agreement.

"It was before my time, but my father said that when she was lost, Lord Elrond's grief was unending" the King continued.
"Indeed" was Haldir's reply. He guarded Lauren's privacy fiercely. The King respected this, and upon seeing Haldir's unwillingness to discuss the topic further, moved onto trade routes.

At the end of the meal, the tables were cleared and then moved away to make room for a dance floor. Lively music began to play. All eyes turned again to the head table. The King rose and stood in front of Lauren. "Princess Luthien, it would give me great pleasure if you honored me with a dance."

Lauren smiled. "Of course, your highness." She took his hand and he led her onto the dance floor. It was not Lauren's first time accompanying someone on the dance floor, she was a well-bred debutante. The King clearly enjoyed her gracefulness as he bowed deeply at the end of the dance and the crowd applauded loudly. After their first dance, the rest of the guests joined in the festivities. Lauren eyed Orophin politely dancing with a countess. Other elven soldiers led the daughters of nobles onto the dance floor, their handsomeness leading to quite a bit giggling and blushing from the girls.

Lauren wasn't alone for long. She was soon commandeered by a large, middle aged nobleman named Maximilian. She judged him to be quite the brutish. He eyed her body in a salacious manner. His hand was low on her back, any further and it would have been scandalous. Lauren eyed Haldir, the marchwarden was watching her carefully, clearly angry with how Lauren was being treated. Haldir made to stand and intervene, but one look from Lauren stopped him. She was here to represent her family and she could handle the man.

As Maximilian made his way ungracefully across the dance floor with Lauren in tow, the King sat beside Haldir.

"News of the Princess's return to Lorien reached me some weeks ago. No doubt it is now common knowledge" the King began. Haldir turned his attention to the monarch, understanding the man had important information to convey. "Bands of orcs still roam our borders, Haldir. They seem to be more enthusiastic as of late, since the Princess's return. They know her blood is a prize. The daughter of Elrond and Celebrian has two ancient and powerful elven bloodlines. You know this makes her blood valuable to the orcs for they know they can derive power from it. They will be hunting for her, you must take every precaution" the King warned.

Haldir sincerely thanked the King for his warning before the King rose to mingle with other guests. The song had finally ended and Lauren excused herself from her present company and headed for Haldir.

"Haldir, it seems you are the only one who has not asked me for a dance" she said with a wide smile. She lowered her voice, "save me from that pig of a man."

Haldir obliged and offered his hand to Lauren. Soon they were enjoying themselves immensely on the dancefloor. Lauren was relaxed and laughed freely. Haldir smiled at seeing her so happy. Perhaps it was the wine or the heat of the room, but Lauren did not want the music to stop. Haldir held her lovingly and she enjoyed being in his arms. On this night, she allowed herself to enjoy his company.

At the end of the night, Haldir walked Lauren back to her room. When they arrived, they stood outside. Lauren didn't want to let go of his arm.

"Luthien, you should get some rest" Haldir finally said. Lauren disregarded his urging and continued to hold onto him. "Thank you Haldir, I had a wonderful time" she whispered. Their faces were now an inch apart. This time, they were both standing there willingly. Kiss me, Lauren silently willed. Haldir seemed to get the message but was hesitant. Then he finally began to lean into her.

"My Lady Luthien, I have prepared your turn-down service." Alessa's voice spoke, as the door to Lauren's chamber opened. That broke the moment between the two who were standing at the door. Lauren turned away from Haldir. "Yes, thank you Alessa."

Haldir gave a short bow. "I bid you good night, Princess Luthien" he said, before walking into his room.

The next morning, Alessa woke the slumbering Princess up when she delivered her breakfast. Lauren was made aware that she had no official duties during the day, as the King, his council and the Elven delegation was in talks all day. Seizing the opportunity, Lauren asked that Alessa accompany her on a stroll in the city.

"My Lady, I am not accomplished enough to guide you through the city. Perhaps one of the courtier's wives?" Alessa suggested, her eyes widening at Lauren's suggestion.

"Don't be ridiculous Alessa. I don't want a guided tour. I just want a low key walk through the city without any fuss. You can show me your favorite spots" Lauren breezed.

"But, but. I need to alert the guards that you plan to leave the castle" Alessa continued.

"No need, I don't need any guards. Nobody knows who I am anyway. Let me get dressed, I'll be ready in 15 minutes" Lauren insisted.

A short while later, Lauren and Alessa strolled out of the castle and into the busy streets of the city. Lauren had deliberately dressed plainly so as not to draw attention to herself. She insisted Alessa take her out of the castle through the servants' quarters. Alessa had decided to show her the market where people congregated to do their daily shopping. Anything could be found at the market for a price. Lauren observed the city to be what life in medieval times may have looked like.

On their walk, she chatted with Alessa. The chambermaid was at first reluctant to talk about herself ("I am of no interest my Lady!"), but eventually opened up. Alessa had been born in the city, the daughter of a cobbler and a housewife. The family was poor and Alessa had started to work in the castle a young age.

"What about your education?" Lauren asked.

"I have no need for schooling my Lady" Alessa replied. "Besides, there was no money for that" she said added shyly. Lauren shook her head.

"And what do you plan to do with your life? You can't want to work as a chambermaid forever" Lauren probed.

"A nobleman has offered my father a position for me in his household. He has seen me in the castle and said I would do nicely as his chambermaid. He has offered a premium for my services, much more than I deserve. My father is thinking it over." Alessa revealed.

Yes, I'm sure he wants more than for you to be his chambermaid, Lauren thought. The idea disgusted Lauren.

"What was your dream as a little girl?" Lauren asked. Before the realities of life bore itself on you.

"I wished to be a nurse. To work in a hospital, to help the wounded and sick" Alessa admitted.

"A noble profession, my cousin shared your dream. She's a physician." Lauren smiled, thinking of Juliette, the fiercest person she knew.

Alessa gasped. "A woman doctor?"

They had arrived at the market. A busy place, buzzing with people. Vendors were hawking their goods. Buyers were eyeing the products with a scrupulous eye. Lauren had a wonderful time amongst the exotic sights and smells. As she paused to smell a fragrant perfume, a shadow was cast over her.

"My Lady, escaped from the castle I see." The voice made Lauren's heart sink. She looked up to find Lord Maximilian smiling at her.

"My lord, I am enjoying the sights of your wonderful kingdom" Lauren replied politely.

"I would be happy to show you to my abode if you wish, get you out of this muck" the nobleman eyed his surroundings distastefully.

"I would not dare to impose on your hospitality. I fear we have already overstayed our excursion. I promised his royal highness my company for tea. Excuse me." Lauren said firmly, with a courteous smile.

The nobleman knew his place and bowed. Then he caught sight of Alessa. "Ah, Alessa. Has your father considered my offer? I will not be kept waiting much longer" he said, licking his lips. Lauren forced herself not to gag. Alessa blushed deeply, "I'll be sure to tell him sir" she squeaked.

Lauren could barely wait to walk away from the oaf of a nobleman. "You didn't tell me the one who made an offer to your father was Lord Maximilian" she noted.

"His family is one of the oldest and most powerful nobility in the kingdom, my Lady." Alessa said.

"But he's disgusting" Lauren objected.

"I have no choice in the matter. It will be up to my father to decide. We need the money" the chambermaid whispered, hanging her head.

They returned to the castle in silence. In the evening, Lauren was served dinner alone. The men were still in meetings, she was told. Alessa had served her meal and quickly excused herself. Lauren sighed, looking out her window at the large garden. She grabbed her cloak and headed outside for a walk. No jogging here, it would be un-lady like. She wandered the garden restlessly. When she returned to her rooms, she paused at Haldir's door. His light was on and she heard his footsteps inside. After a moment, she knocked.

"Enter" came the command from the marchwarden.

Lauren stepped into the room to find the marchwarden seated a desk. A half eaten plate of food sat beside papers he had been reviewing.

"Troop organization for the Galadhrim. I didn't want to be behind while away" Haldir explained.

"You are the marchwarden, no matter where you go" Lauren remarked. Haldir smiled and nodded. He could never shed his duty.

"Haldir, I'd like to ask you for a favor" Lauren began sweetly. The marchwarden's eyebrows raised. "I need to borrow some money."

Whatever the marchwarden was expecting, it was not that. "You require money?" he asked.

"I'm royalty, I'm wealthy aren't I?" Lauren asked.

"Yes. The treasures of your family from both sides are immense" Haldir explained.

"Well, I don't have any money with me. But I need some. Do you have some I could borrow? If I'm that wealthy, you should not be worried about repayment" Lauren continued.

"May I ask for what purpose?" Haldir asked, mystified.

"Er, for a very good cause" Lauren answered evasively. Seeing Haldir would not budge without a full explanation, she told Haldir of Alessa's predicament.

"What were you hoping to accomplish with money?" Haldir sought to clarify.

"I'd like to pay for her education as a nurse. She doesn't want to work for that man's household and she shouldn't have to. God knows what he's got planned for her, I'm sure it's not just tidying and cleaning." Lauren explained, as if it were obvious.

Haldir sighed. "Luthien, we cannot interfere in this matter. If Lord Maximilian wants her in his household and her father agrees, the matter is settled. It is the way of men."

Lauren was outraged. "So it doesn't matter what she wants? It doesn't matter that she has dreams? She is just a possession to be exchanged amongst men!"

"I did not say I agree with it. But we are in their lands. You cannot interfere with the way things are done. He is a powerful noble. Even the King would not tell him how to run his own household" Haldir told the Princess patiently.

"Haldir, what I can do, it would change her life. Free her from a lifetime of misery. Please" Lauren pleaded, giving the marchwarden her most beseeching eyes.

Haldir looked away, he found it difficult to turn her down. "I'm sorry, Luthien."

Lauren took a deep breath. It wasn't Haldir's fault and it wasn't fair to take it out on him. "Thank you Haldir, for listening. Good night" she said, as she left his room.

Haldir watched her go mournfully. He hated to disappoint her. He hated to see her upset. All he wanted to do at that moment was bring her into his arms and hold her. He wanted to kiss her worries and sorrows away. He shook those thoughts from his mind, you have to let her decide how she feels about you.

The short visit flew by quickly. The friendship between the two realms was reaffirmed. New security arrangements and trade deals were finalized. The farewell dinner was another boisterous affair. The nobles jostled for one last look at the elven delegation, particularly the Princess, before their departure. Lauren fulfilled her duties and danced with every noble who had asked for her hand. Haldir was occupied with chatting with the monarch most of the night.

The next morning, the King turned out to see the elves off personally. Surrounded by the nobility, King Eldred watched as their bags were put on the horses. Haldir bowed to the King and thanked him for his hospitality. In turn, Lauren curtsied.

"Princess Luthien, it has been a true pleasure" the King smiled.

"I thank you for your hospitality, I found true joy here" Lauren praised.

"It is I who should thank you" the King responded. Then, raising his voice for the benefit of the nobility who stood behind him, he continued. "Were you happy with your chamber maid, Princess? Did she serve you well?"

Caught off guard, Lauren was momentarily lost for words. The King smiled at her, then winked. She cleared her throat and said loudly, "yes, Alessa took very good care of me. I have never had a more attentive maid." She wasn't sure where this was going but she trusted the monarch to play along.

"Yes, I will insist she serves my son and heir from now on. He is away on a visit to Rohan but when he returns she will be waiting" the King declared. A royal command, one that no noble would dare overrule, Lauren realized. She smiled, Alessa was being saved from the service of an unscrupulous nobleman. The King could not tell Maximilian not to hire Alessa. But he could prevent it by personally expressing his preference for her.

The King leaned in and whispered for Lauren's ears only "and soon, I shall see to it that an apprenticeship in the Palace infirmary is made available to the girl. She has a passion for nursing I'm told."

Lauren had no time to respond before she was ushered onto her horse. The Elven party departed for home immediately. Haldir had elected to make the day's journey uninterrupted, to beat some storm clouds looming in the sky. As her horse sprinted across the plains towards the woods, Lauren turned the events in her head. She knew Haldir must have intervened and spoken to the King, likely at the farewell dinner. Why would he do this? She wondered. He had specifically told her he could not intervene. But he found a way around it by bringing it to the King. Why would he bring this to the King, surely there were more important things to discuss. The inevitable conclusion was he did this for me. Because it was important to me, Lauren realized. The marchwarden indeed loved deeply and loyally. She felt a rush of affection for the marchwarden, so overwhelming that it washed her inhibitions away.

When they arrived in Lothlorien, Lauren hung back as the party stabled their horses. Suddenly, she was alone with Haldir in the stables.

"You told the King about Alessa" Lauren stated matter-of-factly. When Haldir did not respond, she pressed "it could only have been you, I didn't tell anyone else. You spoke to him at the farewell dinner."

Haldir looked her in the eye. He laid things bare to her. He made himself vulnerable, for the first time in a very long time. "I'd do anything to make you happy Luthien."

Lauren went to him and he enveloped her in a tight embrace. She buried her face in his neck and smelled his scent deeply. He held her tightly, smoothing her hair with gentle strokes. She felt comforted in his arms. She also felt at home. They both felt a deep sense of contentment. For Lauren, it was the first such feeling with Haldir. For the marchwarden, he recalled a time many ages ago, when he held an infant in his arms and felt pledged his eternal loyalty to her.

A long time later, she let go of him and they faced each other. This time, Lauren didn't wait for him. She leaned forward and kissed the marchwarden. At first, he was surprised and but soon leaned in to the kiss. For both, there was a sense of completeness. When they finally broke the kiss, their foreheads remained in touch. Haldir lovingly stroked Lauren's face, willing her to feel his love. He could see in her eyes she was beginning to question what she had just done. He wanted to keep her with him, to convey to her that he had no regrets.

"Lady Luthien?" A voice from outside the stable called. A messenger. Lauren turned around towards the voice, breaking eye contact with Haldir. She took a step back. "Yes?"

The messenger came into view. "My lady, Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel wishes for you to join the family for dinner to welcome you back. Captain Haldir, you are also invited. It will be just the family, no formal attire required."

"Thank you, I will go get ready." Lauren said, quickly leaving the stables.