Aerendyll kept her back ramrod straight as she sat in the council rooms next to Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn, though her muscles ached. She had been training with Haldir for two weeks now nearly every day and felt every moment of it in her bones.
But at the same time, she felt stronger and invigorated. And found she loathed training far much less than she did with Legolas, though there was a prick of guilt at the thought. He was her truest friend and she did miss him dearly, but the marchwarden was proving to be a far more able teacher. Not to mention there was something more about him that interested her - she found him easy to speak to and her sessions with him were proving to be a much-needed respite from the council chambers and her homesickness.
Even now, she found her eyes fixed upon him as he sat across from her, speaking on the current state of the borders. Apparently they had had caught sight of a few more orc bands than usual, though so far they had not attempted to breach the forest. More so they appeared to be scoping out the forest and patrols, which was not so comforting either.
For a moment, Haldir's eyes glanced towards her and their gazes met, causing a flurry of fluttering in her stomach. Though just as quickly, he returned his attention back to Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel as she was left slightly flustered, though kept this to herself and her expression clear.
"And what is your opinion, Lady Aerendyll?"
She turned her head slightly, meeting the eyes of Cohnal, one of the younger members of the Lorien Council, though he was still a few centuries older than Aerendyll. Though she had been meeting with the council for weeks now, she still felt as though she could not see beyond his calm facade, which irked her to no end. She was usually rather good at reading those around her, but Cohnal was nearly impassable. The elf stared at her, waiting on a response, though for a moment, she sensed a hit of smugness in his eyes.
"I believe it would be wise to do as the marchwarden suggests. If the orc scouts are becoming bolder, then perhaps it is best to send scouts of our own to better assess the situation," she said smoothly, her eyes still fixed upon him.
Cohnal's expression did not change, save for a faint flicker in his pale blue eyes.
"And possibly send them into an ambush?" he asked.
Aerendyll refrained from frowning, though it was difficult. For this was not the first time Cohnal had questioned her opinions on things. She was beginning to wonder if he was intentionally trying her patience. While she wished to flick her gaze around the table, she kept her eyes trained on Cohnal as she spoke.
"I may still be learning how things are run in Lorien, but one thing I do know is that I trust the Marchwarden's judgement. I've seen firsthand how he trains his soldiers and spent time among them," she replied evenly. "He would not have been made Marchwarden if he did not deserve it. If he feels this is the best course of action, then I think we should heed it."
The room was silent as Cohnal studied her, curiosity in his eyes as he then glanced over to Haldir and then back to Aerendyll.
"I must say, I agree with Haldir and Aerendyll. While our lands are well guarded, it would not hurt to attempt to learn more about what our enemy could be planning just on our doorstep," Celeborn said before either elf could say more. He settled his gaze on Haldir. "I trust that you will send out your best scouts?"
"Yes, my lord. I will send them this very day," Haldir said, bowing his head towards him. Celeborn then turned his attention to Aerendyll.
"I believe it would do well for you to become more acquainted with our armies, though you seem to have learned much so far. Please join me for an inspection with Haldir tomorrow morning, Aerendyll," he said kindly.
"Yes, of course, my lord," Aerendyll said, thinking that a morning spent with Haldir would not be so bad.
"Very well. I believe that is all we have to discuss for now," Celeborn said as both he and Galadriel stood.
Immediately every other elf at the table stood and bowed towards the couple before the two turned and glided out of the council room.
"Lady Aerendyll, if I might have a word."
She fought from grimacing as Cohnal quickly made his way towards her, a small smile on his face. Honestly, she had hoped to retire to her rooms where hopefully Daella would already have lunch for her before she became ensconced in the library learning more of Lorien's long history with another of Celeborn and Galadriel's council - Deldrach. While it was fascinating and Aerendyll had always enjoyed learning, he did tend to make it a rather dry affair.
"Of course," she said lightly, keeping a polite smile on her face.
"I was curious as to if you would be free this afternoon. Galadriel's garden is rather lovely this time of year and I am sure you could be of use of some fresh air," he said, his face still expressionless though there was a certain light in his eyes.
Oh, bother. Aerendyll had not expected this. Most days he appeared to barely tolerate her presence, often goading her. Perhaps that was his way of making his interests known. Either way, Aerendyll knew that she most certainly did not wish to spend more time with Cohnal.
"Oh, well, I fear I must apologize," she started, using a firm but polite tone, with a sheepish smile filling her face.
"But we must have another training session," Haldir finished, stepping up to her side. "Since I am to give her a tour tomorrow morning when we would usually be training."
Outwardly, Aerendyll did not react, but there was that fluttering yet again as she glanced over at the marchwarden out of the corner of her eye, finding him staring at Cohnal with a stern, yet respectful gaze.
"Yes, we must," Aerendyll continued.
Cohnal glanced at her before frowning slightly at Haldir. The frown then smoothed out into a small smile as he bowed his head towards her.
"Of course, I understand. It is still an important part of your studies here in Lorien. I shall not detain you further," he said before turning and striding out of the room.
Aerendyll watched until she was sure that he was out of earshot before turning to Haldir, finding his stance still slightly tense as he watched the elf walk away.
"Thank you. I am quite sure that I could have gotten out of that myself, but I am grateful for aid all the same," she said.
Haldir turned to her, smiling warmly as his countenance relaxed.
"I understand how insufferable he can be at times and would not wish to subject you to that further," he replied.
Aerendyll chuckled before she could help herself, her smile growing.
"Perhaps we could continue this discussion in my rooms. Daella should have lunch prepared and, as you well know, I prefer my meals with company," she said, thinking she would not mind at all to spend more time with the Marchwarden outside of training.
"If that is what you wish, my lady," Haldir said, his arm out as he waited for her to lead the way.
They left the council chambers at a leisurely pace, Haldir slowing his gait for her, his hands clasped behind his back. The weather was lovely, as it was every day in Lorien Aerendyll wondered for a moment if perhaps they could take a stroll through the gardens after lunch.
"How are your brothers?" Aerendyll asked, glancing over at Haldir as they walked through the halls.
"They are well," Haldir replied, seeming surprised to hear her ask of them. "Though I believe it is near time to send them to the borders."
"Is it time or did they do something to irk you?" Aerendyll then asked, unable to hide her smile as they neared the door to her rooms. She was then surprised when a chuckle erupted from Haldir's lips.
She decided then that she wished to hear it more.
"A bit of both, I must confess. They have become most unbearable lately," Haldir said, a slight frown crossing his face.
"Is that so? Whatever for?" Aerendyll asked as she pushed the door open and found Daella there as expected, setting out a spread of food on a table on the terrace of the sitting room.
Haldir opened his mouth, then closed it, a faint tint of red crawling up his neck. But before Aerendyll could ask of it or wonder just why, the servant dropped into a bow.
"My lady, Sir Marchwarden," she said politely. "I did not know that you would be joining today, though I am grateful I thought to bring more food."
Aerendyll took in the amount of food on the table and then back at Daella, who wore a small smile. She had an idea the maid had been planning on this very thing, though she had not a clue how she could have possibly known Aerendyll would wish to dine with Haldir.
"How very thoughtful of you, Daella," Aerendyll said with a smile. She then turned to Haldir and motioned towards the terrace. "Shall we?"
Haldir nodded and the two made their way to the table, sitting down. Daella quickly poured them water and then stepped back, calmly waiting for anything, should she be needed. As the two began to fill their plates, Haldir looked over to the maid.
"You are Braern's betrothed, are you not?" he asked. Daella's eyes widened slightly and then she grinned, nodding.
"Yes, sir. Our marriage ceremony is fast approaching," she replied politely. "He speaks most highly of you."
Daella then glanced over at Aerendyll, smiling even wider. She turned her attention to her food, hoping the maid kept true to her word and did not mention anything of their talks even though she had not shared anything truly personal in regards to the marchwarden.
"He is a brave fighter. I could not have asked for a better second-in-command," Haldir said.
"We would be most honored if you would attend," Daella then said, taking a step towards.
"Of course, I had already intended on being there," Haldir said. Daella then looked to Aerendyll.
"And you as well, Lady Aerendyll," she said.
Aerendyll nearly choked on her water, not expecting that the maid would think to invite her. While she felt them friendly, she had not thought she should be invited to such a personal event. But looking at Daella's face, she was most eager to hear Aerendyll's response.
"I would be most honored as well," she said, placing her glass down and smiling at the maid. Daella looked most happy as she bowed.
"Thank you, my lady, Sir Marchwarden," she said, barely containing her excitement. "If you'll excuse me, I have some things to attend to, but I shall return shortly to see if you need anything."
Without another word, she turned to walk to the door, but not before shooting a secretive wink towards Aerendyll, who suddenly felt rather flustered. She turned her attention back to her lunch, trying not to glance up at Haldir as she ate.
"So, you were saying about your brothers," she said, redirecting the conversation.
Once again, there was a slight red tinge to his neck as his gaze became fixated on the food before him.
"Nothing to trouble yourself with. My brothers are constantly meddling in things they likely should not meddle in," he said.
"And you send them to the borders as punishment?" Aerendyll asked, unable to contain the smile spreading across her face.
It sounded far too much like Legolas. Whenever Thranduil would tire of his antics when he was younger, he would send him out to do a border patrol. Or Legolas would send himself when he could not stand to be near his father.
"They must learn discipline somehow," Haldir said with a sigh. "Though I fear it is too late. They are far too old to be putting on such acts."
"But surely there is some enjoyment to be had," Aerendyll pushed. "I find them lively."
"Trust me, my lady. In short time you will not think such. Orophin has a mind for mischief while Rumil believes he knows far more than he does. And neither has yet to understand common sense," Haldir said, though there was a hint of a smile on his face.
"And yet, you love them dearly. I can tell," Aerendyll said before taking a bite and chewing slowly. She then swallowed. "You three remind me much of myself and Legolas."
Once again, there was a slight pain in her chest. She still had not received word from him though knew it would likely take more time for a letter to reach her. Sighing, she cast her eyes down to her food, suddenly not as hungry as before.
"You truly miss him," Haldir said. Aerendyll smiled sadly at him and nodded.
"Things were left… unsettled when I departed from Mirkwood," she said before swallowing. She glanced up at Haldir, unsure if she truly wished to burden him with what was upon her mind.
For in the weeks since she arrived at Lorien, she still was not any closer to determining just why she had been sent away. Though she hoped that perhaps Legolas would shed some light on it in his letters to her.
"What ails you, my lady?" he asked softly, his face now a picture of worry.
"Oh, it is nothing," she said, shaking her head and putting on a smile. "Nothing to concern yourself with."
"I meant it when I said if there is anything I can do to make your time here easier, I will do it. If that means unburdening yourself, then please do so," he said.
Aerendyll stared at him a few moments and then sighed.
"I suspect there was more than just diplomacy behind my being sent here," she finally said. She paused, waiting for his reaction.
For Haldir to tell her she was being silly. But instead all she saw was kindness.
"What makes you think this?" he asked.
"I am not sure. I was sent away so suddenly and the King, while often stern, he would not even discuss it with me, nor tell me when I am to return," she said, finding the words flowing easily from her lips, as though she could no longer hold them back. "While, yes, there are things he does not share with me, he is usually not this… cold. Withdrawn. Not with me."
Haldir studied her a moment and then looked over towards the tree branches, his brow furrowed. She began to wonder if perhaps he might have some insight on this. He then sighed and looked back at her, a hint of defeat in his eyes.
"I wish I knew, for I would tell you. But it is far-fetched for me to know what is on the King's mind," he said. He then smiled softly. "But if it would put you at ease, I will do what I can to aid you in finding answers."
Aerendyll blinked a few times, partially stunned that he would help her. But then again, she supposed it would not be all that surprising that he would. She then smiled.
"Thank you," she said. "I do appreciate your help."
She was not sure if there was truly anything he could do to aid her, but it warmed her heart to know that she was not truly alone.
"Tell me… was the Prince of Mirkwood truly so mischievous? I find it hard to believe from the few times I have met him," Haldir said.
Aerendyll chuckled as she sat back in her chair, finally relaxing.
"When we were younger, we were constantly up to no good. Sneaking off from our lessons to go riding. Bribing the cook for extra sweets. Sometimes I wonder truly how the King managed us," she admitted, a fond smile on her face. "But, we only had each other and he could not stand to keep us apart for long, even when we were to be punished. We could be rather morose if left alone too long."
A smile came across Haldir's face as he watched her intently.
"We were both rather young when first my mother and father were killed and then his mother too," she said, her voice growing softer. "I barely remember my own, but I do remember his mother. She was so very kind and warm. She always told me that I could come to her for anything… and that she saw me as her own just as much as Legolas."
Aerendyll blinked, feeling the prick of tears in her eyes, though she had not thought of the Queen in such a very long time. There had only been but a few decades in between her passing and her parents. But she still mourned her just as much as Legolas. There was a heavy warmth on her hand and Aerendyll looked up, finding that Haldir had placed his upon hers. The action stunned her so much, she could not speak.
"She sounds as though she was a wonderful elleth and mother," he said. "I am so very sorry you had to experience such loss so young."
A buzzing began pouring through Aerendyll's veins, slowly spreading from her hand throughout her body. It was strange and exhilarating, but yet still terrified her. She found herself pulling her hand away from him, giving him a smile of gratitude.
"It was a very long time ago," she said, straightening up in her chair and wondering just what had possessed her to share such a thing with Haldir. "I am much adjusted now."
Haldir nodded, likely sensing that she did not wish to continue discussing such things.
"My parents have sailed," Haldir said. "Just a bit over a century ago. I miss them everyday, though I hope to one day see them again."
"But why wouldn't you - oh," Aerendyll said, stopping herself as she realized what Haldir was speaking of. He was a warrior. Fought to protect the lands of Lorien. There was always a chance that he would not return.
For a moment, her heart was stricken with fear for him. That he might leave and never come back. While she had experienced this before, there was something paralyzing about the idea that it could be Haldir, which was unusual. She had only ever felt this way when Legolas would go out on patrol, or Tauriel.
"Do not fear for me, my lady. I am more than able to protect these lands," he said, though once again there was an almost bashful expression upon his face. "I will return when I go to the borders."
"Of course, yes. You are a most able fighter," Aerendyll said, reaching for her water. She then stopped and looked over to him. "When are you to return to your post?"
Another realization hit her as she noticed he had not been back once since she arrived. Surely he had not stayed here for her?
"Not for some time yet, though truthfully I spent my time equally between the borders and overseeing the training of my soldiers," he said.
Aerendyll nodded, lifting her glass to her lips, relieved though a very small part of her was disappointed. She quickly shook off the feeling. What did that matter?
"So, tell me Sir Marchwarden, just what trouble did you and your brothers get into…"
Galadriel smiled to herself as she leaned against the railing, soft laughter and voices floating through the air.
"There you are, my dear," Celeborn said, walking to her side. She looked over at him, her serene smile still in place. "Just why are you here?"
"I am just partaking of the beautiful air," she said with a content sigh as she looked back out at the branches and then down to the terrace just below.
She could clearly see Aerendyll laughing as she grinned at Haldir, who was in the midst of a lively tale of his brothers when they were much younger.
"Ah, now I see," Celeborn said, a knowing smile upon his face. "It would seem that they are getting on rather well."
"It is as I hoped," she said, her eyes still fixed upon them.
The two stood silently, watching for a time. They could not quite make out what was being said from this distance, but it was obvious from the looks upon both faces that Haldir and Aerendyll were enjoying themselves.
"You know, I believe it is time to hold another feast," Celeborn finally said. Galadriel turned to him, raising an eyebrow.
"You would not be meddling, would you, dear husband?" she asked.
"I would never… only felt we should have some entertainment for our guest," he replied. Galadriel then leaned towards him, pressing a kiss to his lips.
"Then we shall have some entertainment…"
Apologies that it's taken me a while to update. I decided to change course just a little bit on the story to make the plot a bit more believable in Tolkien's universe (though let's be honest, it's hard to do sometimes, so there's going to be divergences - sorry, but not really because this is fanfiction, ya know?). That required adding in another chapter unexpectedly (this one, actually) and then adjusting the following chapters I had written (which is now finished).
And well, I've picked up two more part-time/contract gigs (on top of my full-time job and the three part-time gigs I already had) to help save up money for my move back to the US, so that's taking up more of my time. But if I can keep it all up until next spring, I should more than make the goal I set, so yay! Thankfully one of my gigs is only for two months, so shouldn't die of exhaustion before then… Still working on my original fiction as well. Need to do an edit of my latest novel to get it competition-ready for the Wattys 2021.
But yea, I wanted to add in some more bonding with Aerendyll and Haldir with this chapter. Plus, I felt just the idea of Thranduil disapproving wasn't enough to make both of them hesitate on acting on the clearly growing feelings between them, but more on that in upcoming chapters… (and no - there will be no love triangle, before anyone asks… or smut… not going THAT far off course).
We finally get to meet Rumil and Orophin's wives in the next chapter, which I'm excited about. ^_^ I'm about halfway finished with the latest chapter, so should be able to post it soon. I'm trying to keep posting regularly, but apologies if there are a few days or a week or so in between chapters in the future.
Ten Duel Commandments - Haha, I know, right? More feelings in this one and it picks up more for a bit. Thanks!
Thanks everyone for reading, following and commenting!