No Good Deed
"How does she fare?" Daella asked the next day, her brow furrowed.
She looked towards the stairs that led up to the second level. Haldir realized as soon as she had come to the door that he should have sent word that Aisling was unwell and would not be working with her this day. But he was as yet unsure of what to tell her about what ailed Aisling.
"The healer assured me that she will be fine. There is no danger," Haldir said, following her gaze.
Though Aisling had told him yet again that morning that nothing was out of sorts, he sent for the healer regardless after she had tossed and turned most of the night and felt a bit feverish. It reminded him just how fragile she was as a mortal, susceptible to illness and all manner of things that elves were not. The healer had determined that nothing was out of the ordinary, which gave Haldir a peace of mind. She had then given Aisling something for the pain so that she could finally get some sleep and rest.
Just before the healer left, Haldir had taken her aside, asking if she could determine whether Aisling had been with child. The healer admitted that she could not, but as far as she could tell, it was nothing more serious than the few other times that Aisling had sought her during these times.
Perhaps that is all it was.
"You do not look so well," Daella said.
Haldir looked over, realizing that she had been watching him. He glanced towards the stairs yet again, unsure if Aisling would want her to mention anything.
"I was up most of this night caring for Aisling. A bit tired is all," he replied.
Daella nodded and then sighed.
"Do inform me if she should wake and feel up to company," she said.
"I will. Thank you for inquiring about her," Haldir said. Daella offered him a smile and then turned, leaving the home.
Once he was alone, Haldir sat down and rubbed his face, feeling slightly weary after the dramatic events of the night before. Truth be told, with each passing month he hoped to receive news of a coming child, even though it had not been long since they wed. While he had not known of her suspicions, part of him felt disheartened. He had felt Aisling's distress and despair the night before and knew it mattered not what had happened in her womb - she truly felt as though she had lost their child.
He was still unsure how he truly felt about it all. Yes, he was saddened that he would not yet be a father. But at the same time, he knew that he should focus on Aisling. Comforting her and caring for her. And reminding her that it had not been so long. There was time enough for them to have children.
Even if he was not sure just how much longer they would have together. But he could not dwell on that just now.
Haldir then stood and made his way to the kitchen, deciding to put on some tea to calm his frazzled nerves then perhaps slip back into bed and rest a bit himself. He had already sent word to his brothers to see after his tasks for that day so that he could focus on Aisling. But before he could place the kettle over the fire, there was another knock upon his door. Frowning, Haldir put the kettle aside and made his way across the living room.
Confusion gave way to understanding when he saw Legolas standing upon his doorstep.
"I have come to inquire after Aisling," he said. "The hobbits were rather worried when she left so suddenly last night."
Haldir nodded and stepped aside, motioning for Legolas to enter. The prince gazed about the home as he walked over to the table.
"She sleeps currently. But the healer informs me that she shall be fine in a few days," Haldir said. "Nothing is out of sorts. Though she will be touched to hear of their concern."
Legolas raised an eyebrow at him and then glanced towards the ceiling, a curious expression on his face. He appeared as though he wished to ask something more, but then decided against this course of action. For which Haldir was relieved.
"I had hoped she would be well enough for company this day," he said. "The hobbits as well. It would seem that Merry and Pippin have grown fond of her in the short time they conversed."
"I am not surprised," Haldir said, smiling slightly as he made his way to the kitchen to put on the tea. "It is easy to grow fond of her. She quite readily made friends upon her arrival to Lorien."
"This is true. Even in Imladris, many grew fond of her," Legolas said. "I hope that she is well soon."
"She will be fine, as I said," Haldir replied as he walked back into the room and sat across from the prince. He studied him a moment, a stern look upon his face. He knew that Aisling would worry for Legolas. Likely already was.
"I am well. You can assure Aisling of that when she wakes," Legolas replied, smiling slightly.
"Still. It is a dangerous journey you have undertaken," Haldir said. "And the hobbits-"
"They are rather resilient, as you will learn while we tarry here," Legolas said, cutting him off. "And brave. Frodo volunteered to carry the ring. The others then followed, unwilling to allow him to go on such a quest alone."
Haldir was silent a few moments, then took a deep breath.
"Do you believe that this journey will end well?" he asked.
"I do not have the gift of foresight, but I have hope. It is what we all must cling to in these days. For I fear darker days are to come," Legolas replied. "We both know Sauron will stop at nothing to gain more power. He will likely attack even these lands."
"And I will defend them with all my strength," Haldir replied quickly.
"Ah, but you have not only yourself to think of now," Legolas said.
"It is Aisling I think of. It is for her that I will fight with everything I have," Haldir said, frowning slightly.
"And just as you will not live long without her, I fear she will not live long without you," Legolas mused. "Fight, yes, but be wise. For her."
Haldir nodded, not yet sure just why the prince would speak to him of such things. He was far from a young ellon and would not rush into battle unprepared or rashlessly.
"How has she fared these months in Lorien?" Legolas then asked. "I would assume it has not been without its trials."
Haldir thought for a moment and then chuckled.
"That it has not, but Aisling is strong. And resilient as well. She has carved out a place for herself here," he replied. "Accepted this as her home and been accepted as well. Learned a great deal in such a short time, though I fear her Sindarin has yet to truly flourish. Though she tries."
"That is good to hear. I recall that she was very much determined to find her way home to her cousins," Legolas said. "I am intrigued to find that has changed."
"At times I wonder if she still longs for her home. She does not speak of it so much these days. But I have done my best to make her happy. Though I do at times feel as though it is unfair for she makes me far happier than I ever dreamed," Haldir said. "And now… this…"
They both fell silent as they pondered upon what may yet come. And just how close it was. Truthfully, it had been easy for Haldir to push such dark thoughts aside. But seeing the Fellowship here with his own eyes - hearing of the trials they had already faced - it made it all too apparent what was going on in the world outside of these woods. And that he and Aisling may yet be parted far too soon.
"As I said, we must maintain our hope," Legolas said after some time. He then stood. "I fear I have taken up much of your time. I only wished to see that Aisling is well. I will take my leave. There are a few things Aragorn has tasked me with."
"Yes, of course," Haldir said, rising as well. He then walked the prince to the door and let him out.
Once he was yet again alone, he walked over to the kitchen to remove the kettle from the fire and set it aside, finding he wanted nothing more than to be with Aisling.
OOOO
Aisling groaned slightly, feeling way too groggy. But she was enveloped in warmth and for a moment she considered just going back to sleep. She then remembered that it was probably daytime and there were things she needed to do. What were they…
Ah. Yes. Legolas and Aragorn were here in Lorien.
She opened her eyes and found the afternoon sun cascading into the room and felt Haldir's arms around her. What the? Had he been here the whole time?
She rolled over, finding him slowly opening his eyes and looking a bit disoriented. Well, that made two of them.
"How long have you been here?" she asked. He smiled and gently kissed her.
"Truthfully? I did not sleep well last night and needed the rest," he said. Aisling frowned as guilt rushed through her. He had been up all night because of her. "Do not fret, Aisling. This is not your doing, but rather my own."
She rolled her eyes.
"Yea, because you are basically the perfect, dutiful husband and were up all night taking care of me or worrying about me," she retorted. "Makin' me look bad, you know?"
He ignored her comment, a concerned look coming over his face.
"How do you feel?" he asked softly.
"Outside of the fact that my uterus hates me and is currently scrapping its insides off in horrid fashion and expelling them in copious amounts from my nether regions, peachy," she said dryly.
She hadn't meant to sound so harsh, but well, it was that or start crying again. She still wasn't sure why she was so upset by the fact she had gotten her period. Well, that wasn't completely true. She knew it was because she had really wanted to be pregnant this time.
"Shall I fetch you a tonic?" he asked, placing his hand on her cheek. Aisling's expression softened.
"It's fine," she said. "And sorry… I shouldn't take this out on you. You know how I sometimes get."
It certainly wasn't the first time she had snapped at him or been irritable during this time of the month. And then there was the one time she had actually slapped Orophin… Though he had deserved it. Poking her in the belly while she was in the throes of cramps.
"Yes, but you thought that perhaps…" his voice trailed off.
Aisling looked up at the ceiling and took a deep breath. Right. Well, thinking and hoping wouldn't make it magically happen right now. Actually, nothing would make it happen right now. The only thing she could do was to take a deep breath and pull herself together. And then they could keep trying. She looked back over at him, feeling calmer.
"Yea, but I'm not. And it's not the end of the world. Like you said last night… just not the right time. But doesn't mean it'll never happen," she said, offering him a small smile. "Just means we can keep trying."
For a moment, he seemed almost confused by the turn around from last night. But then he smiled and nodded.
"That we can most certainly do," he said, leaning in to kiss her.
Aisling laughed and pushed him away.
"As much as I appreciate the dedication, I am really not in the mood. I feel bloated and gross and all that," she said. "But I am hungry. Sure you are too."
She then extracted herself from his arms and sat up, getting out of bed. Turning to him, she almost laughed again at the look on his face as he remained reclining in the bed.
"Come on, Hal. Food time."
Finally he crawled out of the bed and followed her to the door. As they walked downstairs, he took her hand and kissed it.
"I love you, Aisling," he said. "And someday, I feel that you shall make a great mother."
Aisling smiled softly and squeezed his hand.
"I love you, too, Hal. And I know that you will be the world's best dad."
OOOO
The next day, Aisling walked back to the pavilion where the Fellowship was. She was feeling much better now that the first few days of her cycle were passed and she had accepted everything. Well, she was still a bit out of sorts about the whole war thing, but she was determined to try and not think about that right now. She wanted to catch up with her friends.
"Imagine. A dwarf in Lorien," Daella said excitedly from her side. "And hobbits. I have never seen them before."
"Well, they're really short. The hobbits. Almost thought they were kids at first. But they're sweet," Aisling replied. Daella just chuckled. "And I really don't get why you guys hate dwarves so much…"
"It's a mutual dislike, as I recall," Daella said. "Though Rumil told me that Orophin finds this one amusing."
"Orophin finds a lot amusing. Though I'll admit, Gimli seemed cool when I met him," Aisling said with a shrug.
They finally entered the clearing where the Fellowship was staying, finding everyone there. Two of the hobbits - Merry and Pippin - were sparring with Boromir, but quickly abandoned him once they saw that Aisling and Daella had arrived.
"Lady Aisling!" Merry called out as they rushed over to them.
"Seriously, just call me Aisling or Ash. None of this 'lady' business," Aisling replied with a smile, finding herself already cheered up.
"Ah, but you are the wife of the marchwarden of these lands. That, I should think, would make you a lady," Gimli said grandly from where he sat smoking a pipe with Aragorn.
"You have not known Aisling quite long enough then," Legolas said with a smirk as he walked over. Aisling shoved him slightly before hugging him. "It is good to see you in better health."
"I feel better," she said, finding that she really did mean it. "Right, this is my friend Daella. She is an amazing seamstress, so if you need anything fixed or made, I highly recommend her. Oh, and she happens to be Rumil's soon-to-be betrothed."
Daella shot Aisling an exasperated look, but then bowed to Legolas.
"It is an honor to meet you," she said. "And Aisling speaks too highly of me. I fear she shall soon surpass my skill."
Aisling blushed slightly as Legolas studied her.
"You have taken up as a seamstress?" he asked.
"And… what was it you called it? Event planner?" Daella continued.
"I plan… things… yea. But it's just for fun. And really, I'm not nearly as good as Daella," Aisling said. Daella rolled her eyes as the last two hobbits made their way over.
"You should plan a feast for our guests," Daella said. "It would be wondrous."
"Seriously, stop," Aisling said, starting to feel a bit embarrassed. But at the same time she was also a bit proud. Yea, she had figured out a good niche for herself in Lorien, she thought.
"It seems you are well settled in Lorien," Aragorn said. Aisling smiled and nodded.
"I am," she said.
"Lorien suits her," Daella said. "Or perhaps it is Haldir…"
"Right, enough of that… just what have you guys been up to since I saw you last?" Aisling asked, turning back to Legolas. He grimaced slightly, but quickly covered it up.
Oh right. He had only launched onto a dangerous mission to save the world. Maybe that wasn't the best question to ask.
"There is much to speak of, but perhaps you are hungry? Let us eat, for I find a tale pairs well with sustenance," Legolas said, offering her his arm and leading her over to a large table where a decent amount of food was laid out.
"Very well…"
They all sat down together, though it became very clear, very fast that the hobbits were talkers, often interrupting whoever was speaking or each other. But still Aisling was able to piece together a general idea of what had happened over the past few months though she got the distinct feeling that Aragorn and Legolas were downplaying a few things.
Then Merry had asked how she came to be in Middle Earth and all that, so she had to go through her story. This time Legolas or Daella would interject with commentary.
Before she knew it, the sun had begun to sink into the sky and not long after that, Orophin, Rumil and Haldir had joined them, Orophin bringing with him large amounts of wine. They continued eating and drinking and talking for so long, Aisling had long ago forgotten about the time, nor did she care.
She needed this right now. And thankfully it sounded as though the Fellowship was going to be here for a bit. So she would have more of this. Now that she really thought about it, maybe they all needed this right now. Goodness knows none of them wanted to think about the shadow of war hanging over them.
OOOO
Haldir smiled a couple weeks later, watching Aisling as she laughed. The hobbits had quickly made themselves regular visitors to their home, coming often and staying for long spans of time. And it would seem that Aisling had encouraged this. When she was not working with Daella, she would often be found in the clearing where they were staying, conversing with them or Legolas and Aragorn. She had even become friendly with the dwarf Gimli and Boromir, though Haldir always kept a close watch when the man was around.
But this time, it was only the hobbits.
Haldir was pleased to see that the rest was doing them well. Even the ringbearer looked more cheered of late, currently smiling as he sipped his tea, listening to Merry and Pippin as they wove a grand tale for Aisling about their home, the Shire.
And Aisling, it was almost as though all was once again well with her.
"Tell us more about your world," Pippin said.
"Yes, I want hear more about the metal horses," Merry added.
"Don't be rude," Sam said, shooting them a look. Aisling just chuckled as she shifted next to Haldir and leaned her head on his shoulder, becoming more comfortable.
"It's fine, though I've pretty much told you all there is about cars," she said, glancing at him. He smiled and kissed her cheek.
"You should tell them about university," Haldir suggested.
"What is university?" Merry asked, intrigued.
"Houses of great learning. Aisling attended there for four years. One of the best in her land," Haldir said, beaming at her in pride.
"Most people go to university. It's not that special," she said, her cheeks flushing slightly.
"Ah, but you spoke of many gatherings," Haldir replied, smiling slyly. Aisling chuckled and rolled her eyes.
"Too many stories there," she said, though she then launched into one that she knew Haldir found amusing about some celebration that involved drinking large amounts of green mead and pinching people not dressed in green.
Apparently, the hobbits found it enjoyable as well, laughing loudly and stopping her often to ask questions. That story then led to another and time passed quickly. The next thing he realized, the hobbits were shouting out their good-byes as they tumbled out of the home, heading back to their pavilion for supper.
Aisling sighed as she turned to face him, a happy smile on her face. Haldir walked over, taking her into his arms and kissing her.
"What's that for?" she asked, raising an eyebrow at him.
"It is a rare moment when we are alone as of late," he replied before bending down to kiss her neck. Aisling chuckled and tried to push away, though he only held onto her tighter.
"Someone's gotta make dinner," she said with a soft sigh, though she did not attempt to push him away again.
"Dinner can wait," he said, still kissing her.
Though it would appear that fate had other plans as there was a knock upon the door just then. Haldir sighed and glared at it. If it were the hobbits, he was not yet sure that he would keep his temper. Aisling chuckled as she turned in his arms and walked to the door. Haldir watched as she opened it to reveal Legolas and Aragorn.
"Hey guys," she said, glancing over her shoulder and laughing yet again. Haldir then quickly rearranged his expression, noting the look of amusement on Legolas' face. His irritation must have been obvious.
Aisling stepped aside, motioning for them to enter. Soon enough, they were settled around the table as Aisling put out food and drinks. She then sat next to Haldir and turned her attention to her friends.
"So what brings you here?" she asked, taking a bite of food.
"We shall leave in a fortnight," Aragorn said. Haldir saw Aisling freeze slightly, her eyes widening.
"So soon," she murmured. Haldir sighed. He knew the day would be coming when they would need to leave. But for Aisling's sake, he had avoided speaking of it.
They had both avoided speaking of it, to be truthful. Not wanting to think about the war. Or what dangers they may face on the road.
She looked over at him, taking his hand, and then turned back to them.
"Where will you go next?" she asked.
"We will continue on to Mordor by way of the Anduin," Legolas said. "We already work on preparations."
"You'll be careful, won't you," Aisling said, frowning. "This… it's not going to be easy."
"We understand the danger. Do not fret too much on our account," Aragorn said. She laughed shortly.
"Yea, kind of hard not to do that when you guys are going off to try and save the world," she replied, a rueful smile on her face. "Just… take care of yourselves, you know. And the others."
"I believe the Fellowship could not be in better hands," Haldir said, looking across the table at Aragorn and Legolas. He squeezed Aisling's hand, hoping to assuage any fear that she might be feeling.
She then took a deep breath and looked down at a moment before smiling up at the others.
"Well then, let's not waste all our time talking about this war nonsense," she said, brightening slightly. They slipped into conversing on happier topics, though Haldir continued to watch her closely.
He could not help but notice the worry in her eyes. Oh, what he would do to take it away.
OOOO
Aisling blinked and tried hard not to cry. But it was pretty damn hard as they all stood on the riverbank, watching as others loaded up the boats. Galadriel had given them all gifts and they were now making their goodbyes.
As soon as Legolas started towards her, she knew she was going to lose it. Tears slipped down her cheeks as she hugged him tightly.
"Please… be safe," she whispered in his ear.
"Do not worry for me," he said solemnly as she stepped back from him. She nodded and then turned to hug Aragorn next.
"We will do our best to remain safe," he vowed.
"Look out for the hobbits," she said. He nodded to her.
Aisling then turned to watch as the hobbits walked up to her, Gimli and Boromir not far behind. She bent down and kissed each of them on the cheek.
"Be careful," she said, now blinking rapidly, though she should just give up and allow herself a good cry.
"We will do our best, my lady," Sam said, speaking for all of them. "And we shall miss you."
"Well then, I guess you're just going to have to come back to visit when this is all over, won't you," she replied, though her heart clenched. She didn't know if they would ever come back.
If they would survive at all.
"We'd like that very much," Pippin said.
"You'll always be welcomed," Aisling replied, looking around at them. "All of you."
"You are too kind, Lady Aisling," Gimli said grandly. Aisling smiled as she stepped over and kissed his cheek. She then nodded towards Boromir, who bowed to her.
"We must go," Aragorn said, looking around the group and then nodding towards Aisling. She stepped back and felt Haldir put his arm around her waist as they watched the Fellowship load into the boats.
"Do you think they'll make it?" she asked softly.
"I do not know, but I have hope," he replied. She looked up at him, finding him smiling softly. "We must keep our hope, for it will help us through these days."
She nodded and looked back to the river watching as they pushed the boats off and began to set off.
"They will survive," he said softly. "And I will do my best to make sure that you are safe."
Aisling nodded, but didn't speak as she continued to watch them leave. She was trying hard not to let it get to her. But it was starting to sink in. They were on the verge of war. Whatever was coming, it would consume all of Middle Earth. And her friends were on their way to the heart of it. Suddenly she thought of all the things she should have said to them. She might never see any of them again.
A soft sob broke through her lips as she covered her mouth and squeezed her eyes shut. She felt Haldir pull her closer, wrapping his arms around her. She then opened her eyes and looked up at him.
"I will keep you safe," he murmured before kissing her forehead. She could only manage to nod before looking over at the river again. "Keep hope, Aisling."
"I'll try."
OOOO
UPDATE 1.22.2021 - This is the updated version, but honestly, I barely changed anything. Just added a few bits here and there and changed some dialogue that was a bit too modern for characters.
OOOO
So, I really did toy with another chapter here to give more time with the Fellowship in Lorien, but… I felt like I had already added enough and well, I wasn't sure just what more it would add to the storyline. So, we get this much of a reunion. And really, the important thing is not really Aisling getting to know the Fellowship.
And yea, kind wanted to get to the end. And I think I went a bit off canon, but honestly, but the time I got here I had spent so much time researching and making sure everything was perfect, that I decided it was okay if I got off just a bit. And it is a fanfic, after all…
Pat (Guest) – Haha, yep! Just finished editing so I'm going to go ahead and post it all tonight. And I ended up not writing the second steamy chapter just because it didn't feel quite right for where I planned to put it. But don't worry – the last two chapters should make everyone really happy.
Thanks for reading and following!
