Aerendyll was silent as she walked at Galadriel's side through her garden. It was renowned throughout the elven kingdoms for its beauty and the collection of rare blooms that the Lady of the Wood so loved.

It had been a few days since her arrival in Lorien and things had quickly settled into routine, though she had yet to begin her training with Haldir. The night before they were to meet, a messenger arrived, saying he had been suddenly called back to the borders. It was not a grave matter, but they would have to postpone. Aerendyll could not help but feel slightly disappointed, which was most unusual. Never had she ever looked forward to training. She was yet unsure why this time would be any different.

"I do hope that your rooms are to your liking," Galadriel said, looking to Aerendyll.

"Yes, my lady. They are quite satisfactory," she replied smoothly, her eyes fixed on the blooms.

"And I do hope that your stay with us is enjoyable," the Lady continued.

"I as well, my lady. I am sure that I will find it as such," Aerendyll said automatically.

Lady Galadriel stopped suddenly, causing Aerendyll to turn to her, worried that she had offended her. But then she thought over her words, seeing no fault that she could find. The Lady of the Wood smiled warmly.

"Please, you are free to speak your true mind with me, Aerendyll. As I am sure you do with the King and the Prince," she insisted. "There is no need to temper your words. Not when you are among friends, which I hope you will view me as one."

Aerendyll stared back at her a few moments in astonishment and then smiled, bowing her head slightly.

"Yes, of course, my lady," she replied, though feeling slightly unsure.

Despite her kind words, it was hard to see the great elleth as a confidant or friend. Lady Galadriel could be rather intimidating. The two began slowly walking again.

"I must admit, I was surprised when I received word that Thranduil wished to send you here," Lady Galadriel continued. "But pleased. I miss my daughter greatly and hope that your presence here will brighten these halls in her absence."

"I am grateful for your hospitality, though I admit I am most perturbed by my sending here as well," Aerendyll said, testing the waters slightly as she glanced at Galadriel. Perhaps she knew more about Aerendyll's true purpose in Lorien.

"Yes, it was rather abrupt. I assume it must have caused you great distress. To be separated from those you hold dear for so long and rather unexpectedly," Lady Galadriel said, revealing nothing.

Aerendyll swallowed the small lump in her throat. She did miss Legolas greatly. And even the King, though she was still rather put out with his order for her to leave Mirkwood.

"Yes, but I am sure the time will pass quickly and there is much for me to learn," she replied. She heard Galadriel chuckle softly.

"What did I tell you, my dear?" she asked, her voice light. Aerendyll sighed, a furrow entering her brow.

"I feel there is some other reason I was sent from Mirkwood, though I do not know what," she found herself confessing. "Never before has the King been so adamant that I leave and nor has he sent me away for so long or so suddenly. I am… confused by it all."

She stopped walking and looked to Lady Galadriel. The older elleth offered her a warm smile of sympathy, reaching out for her hand and squeezing it.

"I fear King Thranduil did not share his mind with me in that regard, though we both know how guarded he is, even with those he trusts," she said gently. "But I do feel there is a great purpose for your time here and that it will not go to waste."

She then let go of her hand and continued walking again, Aerendyll following, though she was a bit frustrated that even Galadriel could offer nothing further as to why she was here.

"Though some of the King's wishes are not so hidden," the great lady continued. "He wishes for you to someday help rule his lands. Places great importance on your advice over others much older."

"He does," Aerendyll replied. "Though at times I do not understand why. Though I have been in his service for the last thousand years, there are others more learned and wiser than I."

"He sees great wisdom in you. Much as he did with your mother and father. A wisdom I see as well," Galadriel explained. "And he senses your fondness for his son."

"Well, though I am fond of Legolas, he would be wise to look elsewhere in that regard. If love has not found us yet, I fear that it never will," Aerendyll said with a sigh, unexpectedly finding some relief in unburdening her soul. "While I do adore Legolas, and he I, we are nothing more than companions. View each other more as brother and sister."

"I had sensed as much the last you were both here," Lady Galadriel said sagely.

Aerendyll took a deep breath, feeling as though some sort of floodgate had been opened.

She was not sure if it was the lady herself or if she had desired a maternal figure all these long years in Mirkwood, and that is what loosened her tongue. There were certain things that she found difficult to discuss with the King and even Legolas. Perhaps that was it. Lady Galadriel's calming and maternal presence.

"Truthfully, I do not see a need for something such as love in my life," she stated. "My purpose is to aid the King and perhaps someday I will aid Legolas in much the same way. But I feel as though I will never love anyone. Not the way that my mother and father loved each other. As you likely love Lord Celeborn."

She then flushed slightly, embarrassed by her bold words, though they were true. When she was younger, Aerendyll had entertained such ideas as finding a lifemate. But as she grew older she realized that finding such a love was rare. More than that, she knew that much of the King's coldness was due to the loss of his wife and true love. She should not wish to experience that. Aerendyll had by now long felt there was no such need for love when she could live a fulfilling life in service to Mirkwood.

"There are many mysteries in this world, Aerendyll. Love being one of them. We may seek it or run from it, but we will never know when or how it will show itself," Lady Galadriel said. "For love makes those choices, not ourselves."

Aerendyll glanced at the lady and then looked away, pondering her words. It sounded like something a mother would say to a daughter. Though it still did nothing for her. No, she knew herself well and was most sure that if love was to present itself, it would have done so by now. She was nearly 3,000 years as it was. Most others had already found their lifemates by this age.

And she believed her own words. She had no need for such things with a much larger purpose before her.

"Ah, it would seem the marchwarden has returned."

Aerendyll stopped, her eyes going forward to see Haldir walking towards them. He wore a warm smile. When he reached them, he bowed, Galadriel inclining her head in return.

"It is good to see you safely return. I gather your business has gone well?" Lady Galadriel asked.

"Yes, it has," he said. He then turned his grey eyes to Aerendyll. "I hoped that we might have a moment to discuss your training, my lady."

"Yes, of course," Aerendyll replied, finding herself smiling in return.

"Then I will take my leave," Lady Galadriel said, bowing her head and then turning to walk away.

Haldir then motioned for Aerendyll to continue on, falling in step with her as they continued walking at a leisurely pace, his arms folded behind him.

"I was hoping we could begin in the morn," Haldir said once they were truly alone. "If that is agreeable with you?"

"Yes, of course," Aerendyll replied. "Whatever is suitable. Again, I feel as though I am taking you away from your tasks."

"As I said before, it is of no consequence, my lady. I am honored to train with you," Haldir said.

Aerendyll chanced a glance at him, finding his gaze fixed forward as he walked with his head held high and his back straight. At this range, she found him most handsome to look upon, but then quickly moved her gaze forward, yet again surprised by her own thoughts.

"You seemed somewhat adept at the sword, though I did notice a few things that could be improved," Haldir continued. "Though I will admit, I am not so sure about your skill in other areas. I fear I may be unable to fully trust the Prince's words, considering you were far better than his letter made you to be."

"Ah, yes, that sounds like Legolas," Aerendyll said with a smile. "He believes firmness is more beneficial than praise. Though, that is likely because it is how he was taught. King Thranduil, himself, oversaw much of the Prince's teachings."

"Is he truly so cold as they say?" Haldir asked, coming to a stop.

Aerendyll turned to look at him, finding much concern filling his grey eyes as he gazed down upon her. For a moment, she was truly touched that he appeared so invested in her well being. Though very quickly it changed to an expression of regret.

"Forgive me, my lady. I should not say such things," he said quickly.

"I assure you, all is well. I have heard such assumptions many times before. King Thranduil is a most able leader, though being in his position, he must show strength more than anything else," she began. "But to me, he has always been kind. Took me in as one of his own, though I am not his flesh and blood. He is… much more than what he may seem."

Haldir appeared to ponder these words before nodding. Though he remained still, not yet moving onward in their walk.

"And the Prince… does he treat you kindly as well?" he asked, though Aerendyll sensed the smallest hesitancy in his words.

"Yes, of course. Despite how it may seem, he treats me as a cherished sister. And I too see him as a most beloved brother," she replied. A small smile appeared upon her face. "Do not fret for me, Sir Marchwarden, all is well for me in Mirkwood. Though I do miss it so."

Relief flickered in his eyes as he offered a smile of his own, appearing pleased with her words. He then motioned for them to continue through the garden. Aerendyll found it a bit odd, but could not bring herself to ask about it. Perhaps this was just how he was.

"I feel we should start light and ease into it until you have settled. Though first I must determine the best course forward," he continued.

"Seems a fair assessment," Aerendyll said.

As she took a breath to ponder her next words, there was a shout. She looked ahead, seeing two other ellon that were similar in features to Haldir approaching, though she did not yet know if this was because all the Lorien elves looked comparable in features. She had yet to venture out into the city and had only seen those that came to meet with Lorien's rulers. These two had Haldir's height and same shade of hair, though one was stockier. They wore matching grins as they continued towards them. The stockier one was more open in his assessment of her, though the other seemed just as eager to study her, albeit with an air of bashfulness.

"There you are, brother. I should have known that you would be entertaining our esteemed guest," the stockier one said as they came to a stop before them. "Your beauty is most certainly unmatched as I have heard, Lady Aerendyll."

He bowed grandly before her and Aerendyll found her words caught in her throat, unsure of how to respond to his overly flattering words. She glanced to Haldir at her side, who now wore an expression of annoyance.

"Forgive my manners, these are my brothers," he said. "Orophin." He motioned towards the stockier one. "And Rumil."

"It is an honor to meet you, my lady. The city has been abuzz since your arrival," Rumil said, bowing as well.

"It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance," Aerendyll replied, inclining her head towards them.

"There is no need for such high greetings to us, my lady. I am sure my brother will quickly inform you of our mischievous escapades, no doubt," Orophin said, his eyes twinkling in amusement as he glanced towards Haldir. "He is oft to remind us just how undisciplined we are and rather enjoys putting us in our place."

Aerendyll found it so very different from the sensible elf at her side, that for a moment, she wondered if they were truly related. But there was something about Orophin's countenance that reminded her of Legolas. A wider smile spread across her face at the thought as she yet again glanced at Haldir, taking in his slightly clenched jaw.

"Orophin," Haldir said in warning.

"Please, brother. I have always told you that you are far too serious for your own good," Orophin quipped.

"'Tis true, Haldir," Rumil added, a twinkle of his own in his eyes.

Aerendyll could only watch on in amused silence as the brothers continued their back and forth, with Haldir growing more exasperated as it continued, sending worried looks her way.

"Oh dear, I fear we are setting quite the wrong impression upon our guest," Rumil said, finally bringing it to an end. "Forgive us, my lady."

"Do not fret. I find it reminds me of home," she responded honestly.

It was true. The longer the brothers spoke, the more it made her think of Legolas and miss him even more. She had already sent out a bundle of letters, telling him of her journey and first few days in Lorien, though she would have to wait weeks before she received his response. For a moment, she felt the press of tears in her eyes, but managed to keep them at bay, instead offering Orophin and Rumil a calm smile.

"Well, I see you two must have many important things to discuss. We shall take our leave," Orophin said with another bow. "Come, Rumil."

His teasing tone and well timed wink had Aerendyll once again blushing, for it was clear the insinuation in his words. Haldir shot him a scowl as the two brothers continued on, leaving them alone yet again.

"My apologies, Lady Aerendyll. I fear my brothers will never learn to curb their tongues," Haldir said.

"As I said, there is no need to offer apologies. I find it rather enjoyable," Aerendyll replied as lightly as she could.

"Is that so?" Haldir asked as they continued on walking.

"Yes, and I should be grateful to spend more time with them while I am here," she said, her heart yet again aching at being so far from Legolas. Perhaps he would be entertained by Orophin and Rumil as well.

"I fear you shall find them more trouble than it is worth," Haldir replied. He then offered her a tight smile. "Come, I shall show you the way to the training grounds."

"Yes, of course…"

Haldir came to a stop as he walked into his talan later that night to find both of his brothers waiting for him, the two already through a carafe or two of wine based on appearances. He sighed in frustration as he stepped over to remove his weapons, shooting dark looks their way.

He was most embarrassed by their words earlier. They were far too casual to have been said in front of Lady Aerendyll. What she must think of them now? Though even now, he could not manage to get the look of loneliness in her eyes as she watched them out of his mind. Though fleeting, it was burned his memory.

"Did you enjoy the rest of your walk, brother?" Orophin called out.

"We were discussing her training," Haldir replied crisply, now walking to his kitchen to retrieve food. There was nothing but crumbs on the plates before his brothers. "And you both have your own households to attend to. Why must you invade mine?"

"Must we need a reason to spend time with our brother?" Rumil asked. "Besides, Melaine and Sheelin do not mind."

"More likely they wish to be free of your presence every so often," Haldir grumbled.

Though the two were both younger than him, they had long ago found their partners and married, with Rumil's Sheelin expecting their second elfing. He was still surprised that the elleths had fallen for his rascals of brothers, but he supposed love did truly work in mysterious ways.

"Lady Aerendyll is as lovely as they say," Orophin said, ignoring Haldir's jab. "I can see why you would wish to spend more time with her."

"I am to train her at the request of the Prince of Mirkwood, you know this," Haldir said, now coming to sit at the table, though carefully avoiding the curious gazes of his brothers.

He knew them far too well and had a clear idea of where this conversation was heading.

"Admit it, you are intrigued by her," Rumil stated.

"It is not often we have such guests stay among us," Haldir said smoothly. "It is only natural to be intrigued. Dare say half the kingdom is."

"Ah, but none so intrigued as you," Orophin quipped, a grin firmly on his face. Haldir frowned at him as he reached for the wine.

It was safer to think upon his words before speaking as he was not about to give his brothers more fodder against him. They were barely bearable on a good day.

"I am to train her and nothing more," he pressed.

"Oh, I dare say there's a fair bit of something more there," Rumil said with a grin of his own. "You could not look away from her. And her eyes were often set upon you."

"Do not say such things," Haldir chided, though there was a flutter of something in his chest. Had she truly been looking at him as they said? Surely not.

"Look, he is blushing," Rumil said, looking to Orophin. Haldir scowled at him.

"I am doing no such thing," he retorted.

"Ah, but you do hope that she was looking upon you," Orophin replied. "It is written clearly upon your face. You are taken with her. It is about time you settle down like the rest of us."

Haldir sighed, placing the carafe on the table before settling his stern gaze upon his brothers.

"She is only here to learn from Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn and then will return to her kingdom," he stated.

"But still-"

"No," Haldir said firmly. "Regardless of whatever fanciful ideas you have in your heads, they are simply fantasies. I am to aid in her instruction while she is here. You will speak no more of it."

Though the two were silent, he could clearly see there was more they wished to say. He darkened his scowl, and they turned their attention to the wine goblets before them.

It was best that they drop this mess now. Even though a small ache had entered his chest. He did truly wish to befriend the lady, but he must tread carefully. For one did not lightly cross King Thranduil, and he was sure the King of Mirkwood would have eyes on Aerendyll even from afar.

Haldir was an elf of honor above all things. He would train her, yes. Perhap form a comradeship with her. But most definitely nothing more.

And finished another chapter! Which means I can post another. Bit sad that my vacation is coming to an end, but going to try and keep up with my current writing schedule. Bleh, do not want to think about going back to work on Monday…

And as you can see, no Haldir story would be complete without Orophin and Haldir, though took a different route this time, giving them wives. Thought that would be an interesting new take and already written the chapter introducing their wives (oh, those two are gonna be fun). But as you can see, Haldir is already struggling a bit with his attraction to Aerendyll and his sense of duty. Yea, I think I can't seem to write something without a bit of angst…

Ten Duel Commandments – Haha, no worries. There will be a happy ending. And I'm not going to make it as difficult as I've made other stories, but still got some obstacles to get through before we get to all the fluffy goodness I've got planned.

As always, thanks for reading, following and commenting!