Libera Me
Four days later Arelén arrived at the edge of Lorien's woods. Noticing fresh marks of an attack, she slowed down her horse.
Surrounded by Rúmil and a few others. "I am Arelén. I seek sanctuary here."
A look of relief crosses Rúmil's face. "Are you the one Haldir is asking for?"
"How mean you cousin?"
"We were attacked not long ago by Orcs and are in need for a healer."
Arelén slid off her horse. "You have my assistance as much as I can give"
"Over here. We dared not move him."
Haldir laid at the roots of a large tree. Blood stained the roots and surrounding ground. He has many gashes, arrow, blade wounds, bruises from combat and is in and out of sentience.
((Can this be him?)) "Rúmil, have you any water in your supplies?"
"Some" "Bring me that, as clean cloth as you can find, arrows shafts, bow wax/resin and what herbs you can find." Picking up the right hand, she notices the very faint scar. ((oh, gods it is him))
[What do you see?]
((Mostly external injuries, but there are some bruises forming on the inside, much bleeding. Poison on blade wounds))
Haldir opens his eyes halfway "Arelén?"
"Yes. Be still. You are badly wounded."
Muttering incoherently, Haldir closes his eyes.
Rúmil returns with all supplies. Quick look over herbs. Lumin, Rocbilo and Serena.
"Sit, you will need to help me. Crush these and mix with a bit of water."
[The first threat is the bleeding. Stop that first.]
Arelén crushes some leaves onto the most severe bleeding. "Wrap a tight bandage over this."
[Slow the poison.]
Arelén rummaged in her bag pulling out a red colored liquid in a vial. ((I do not remember packing that))
"Rúmil, sit him up. Orophin, Hold his arms."
Sitting on Haldir's legs, Arelén warmed the vial in her hands. Opening the vial Arelén warned, "This is going to hurt. Hold him as best you can."
Haldir's body convulsed as the first drop of the mixture bubbled and hissed on the poison.
Whispering into his ear, "Haldir, I know this hurts. Hatu talge. I will take some of your pain" {calm your self}
Drop by drop, Arelén emptied the vial.
Eventually, Haldir's movement ceases.
"Orophin, hand me that cup please."
Leaning in close, Arelén stared into Haldir's pain-filled tearing eyes.
"Haldir, listen to me. You need to drink this. It will deaden the pain."
Arelén held the cup for Haldir as he drank. The effects were immediate as he fell into Arelén's arms and blacked out.
Cradling Haldir in her arms, Arelén looked at the younger brothers. "There is only so much I can do here. We must get him back."
*****
Orophin and Rúmil carried Haldir's body into the Healing house.
Trying to settle Haldir into a bed, he fought an invisible opponent. Arelén dodged a fierce swing just in time. Orophin wasn't as lucky in his timing.
"He needs to be restrained."
"No - Wait." Arelén wrapped her hands behind Haldir's head.
She started quietly chanting.
"Lastu beth nin Haldir. Hatu talge. Lastu beth nin Haldir. Hatu talge." {Hear my voice, Haldir. Calm your self.}
Haldir ceased his struggling, relaxed and fell back into sleep.
"How do you do that?" asked the healer.
Arelén released her hold and looked at the healer. "It's a gift."
Loiren's Healer and Arelén spent the next hour dressing Haldir's wounds and dealing with the poison residue.
The Healer examined a sample of the poison. "It is of Orc make. Your remedy worked very well. But it will take some time to work through his system."
Having stabilized Haldir's injuries, Lorien's Healer grasped Arelén's shoulder. "We have done all we can. It is up to his spirit now."
The Healer looked at Arelén. "You are greatly wounded my child."
Arelén pushed the pain out of her mind. "Not as much as he is. Which herbs are you using on the wounds?"
As Haldir slept, Arelén added fresh herbs to new bandages. ((Why would he remember me? Why call for me when he was injured?))
[Why did you call for him as you died?]
The night passed with a few moments of hallucinations.
Haldir's only comfort came from his hearing the angel's voice. Wrapped in her arms he knew no darkness would touch him.
The second day passed with little change. Haldir's nightmares lessened. Wounds healed with no scarring.
Despite the Healer's protests and pleas, and the growing pain in her back, Arelén would not leave Haldir's side. Her focus was exclusively on healing Haldir. ((He would do the same for me))
Arelén faced the healer. "I will watch him tonight. Go rest. I will let you know if there is any change." Sensing that arguing was going to be pointless, the Healer walked off to his chambers.
After sunset on the second day, Haldir awoke. Seeing an unfocused outline of a dark haired elf he weakly spoke, "Arelén?"
Arelén turned around and brushed Haldir's face with a damp cloth "Yes. I am here"
"I thought you were a dream."
Smile crossed her gray eyes "How are you feeling?"
Recognition returned to his eyes. "Much better knowing you are real."
"I have some soup if you are hungry." Nodded to her uneaten dinner the healer brought.
"I am well. Come sit with me."
"If not dinner, then at least drink this. The poison is almost completely out of your system."
Arelén sat on the side of Haldir's bed, holding his hand as he drank the tea. Running her finger over the scar. "I now know better. There will be no scars this time"
"Where is yours?" as he put the cup down on the table.
Arelén hung her head, hair falling over her face. Using his free hand, Haldir pushed back the fall of dark hair and pulled up her chin. Not asking about the faded bruises around her neck and small cuts on her mouth.
"It was taken from me." Arelén's voice cracked with fresh memory.
"It was yours alone. Looks like you put up quite a fight"
"Haldir. Arelén." Both turned towards the familiar voice.
Arelén stood off the bed and bowed her head. Pulling her hand away from Haldir's grip. Feeling very ashamed of how disheveled and unkempt she looks. "Lady"
Haldir tried to move, but Gladriel's smile held him fast. Gladriel made her way to the side of Haldir's bed, examining her son. "You have done well Arelén." Her voice carried pride, satisfaction and great relief. ((He will live))
A small blush crossed Arelén's face. "Master Healer provided the necessary herbs and guidance. Thank you." ((I would not let him die. I know what he means not only to you but your people))
Gladriel's face smiled in gratitude. "What do you seek?"
"Sanctuary." Arelén's voice was a faint whisper. ((a home))
Gladriel looked at Arelén. "Granted. Your heart lies elsewhere"
"I am greatly concerned about my brother still in Mirkwood."
((He is well. You protect him still)) "Another rider from Mirkwood recently
arrived. Mayhap they have news of your brother?"
Arelén was puzzled. "I have only left there 6 suns ago. How did they follow so closely? Only their fastest rider can make that journey in better time"
"They are down one level. Rúmil will take you there."
Haldir moved to get out of his bed. "I am well enough Lady, I will escort Arelén."
Lady's gentle voice held him still, "Haldir, you rest a while more."
Rúmil and Arelén walked down the path to the open landing.
Standing upon the far edge was one cloaked, road worn rider.
Arelén composed herself. "Rider, have you news of Mirkwood?"
Removing his hood, the rider uncovered the unmistakable face and smile of Legolas. "Of course, sister."
Arelén ran across the platform and hugged Legolas tightly.
"Why did you leave me?" Was his first question.
Arelén looked away. "I had no choice."
Legolas continued. "These are strangers to us. You do not know how to defend your self. Come home"
"I appreciate your concern brother, but I can take care of myself."
His plea continued, "I want you to come home. Father is willing to forgive everything and welcome you back"
Arelén's gray eyes lost their focus. "Thranduil has ordered his guards to kill me on sight. Until you are King, I am to never set foot in Mirkwood again."
Legolas grabbed Arelén's hands and pulled her to edge of platform. "Look - I have the two fastest horses and full provisions. We can go anywhere you want. Rivendell? The Shire? Anywhere"
Gray eyes meet the light blue pleading eyes as she stepped back from the edge. "Legolas, I am home."
Legolas shook his head "No. Not here"
Arelén smiled "Yes - Here"
Rúmil caught his older brother as Haldir made the final few steps onto the platform.
Legolas grabbed his sister by the shoulders. "I will not let them take you"
Haldir stepped forward "I may be injured, but I can still take you"
"Stop this." Arelén's voice implored.
A flash of silver brought Legolas' knife to Arelén's throat. "I will not let him take you away from me."
"Why?"
"I have to protect you. That is what brothers do"
"Would you kill me to protect me?" Arelén questioned.
"From him, yes"
"Legolas, brother, listen to yourself. You are not making sense"
"Yes I am."
"Then, my dear brother, we are at an impasse."
Arelén grabbed the knife handle, swept her leg behind her brother's knees and knocked him to the ground.
Pressing the tip of the knife to his throat, "I no longer need your protection, brother"
Light blue eyes flamed in anger. "Yes you do."
Legolas kicked Arelén off balance, falling her backwards.
Haldir and Rúmil took steps forward. Arelén waved them off.
Legolas drew his second blade and attacked.
Catching the second handle as she stepped aside, Arelén tripped her brother onto the platform. Pinning the blond haired one down, she brought both blades to just above his neck.
"You nor anyone can harm me. Do you believe me now, Brother?" Arelén's dark voice growled.
Light blue eyes grew wide as awe and amazement crossed his face. ((She has that look again)) "Yes" Tears made pools in his eyes. "Let me up."
"No more?"
"No more."
Arelén pulled Legolas up into sitting position. ((Oh gods this hurts)) A few deep breaths later she released her distress.
Looking towards the other two upon the platform, "Haldir, Rúmil, can we have a few moments alone please?"
Bewilderment, pride, amazement crossed Haldir's face as he and Rúmil walked off the landing. Out of sight but still nearby.
Arelén sat next to Legolas "You will always be a part of my life. My first remembrances are of my big, strong bother protecting me. Things have changed. I can no longer hold onto your hand. I must walk my own path."
"But they have bewitched you..." Legolas was close to tears.
"No. This is of my own choice."
"Why him?"
"I am not one to know the why of the gods. It's not only Haldir - this is where I was to be. From the first time we came here I knew this is my home."
Legolas sighed deeply as he wrapped his arms around Arelén's shoulders.
"The night you left, Father came into our room in his full anger. He raised his hand but he could not move it anywhere close to me. He said he heard your words and saw your eyes."
Arelén ran her fingers through his light hair. "He will not harm you as long as I live. His anger can not break my spell."
Legolas handed over another well-worn satchel, "I brought you something."
Arelén opened the satchel. A look of utter disbelief crossed her face. "My books! You saved my books!"
Blue eyes smiled. "The King ordered your possessions destroyed. When I was excused, I remembered your private place and went there to gather up what you had hidden in there."
Arelén's face carried shock and happiness. Fighting back a tear she asked, "How long can you stay?"
"Not very long. I told Father I was going out hunting."
Arelén stood up, "He will be furious with you."
"As you said, he will never hurt me again." Sly smile crosses his face.
"At least stay the night and start off in the morning."
"I will"
Walking off past Haldir and Rúmil, Arelén waved off their attempt to follow.
*****
They find a small but comfortable chamber for Legolas.
As Legolas readied for bed, Arelén made him a cup of tea. "This will help you sleep."
Arelén tucked Legolas into bed - turning off the light.
"What did you mean by 'Until you are king?" His soft voice questioned.
Arelén sighed. "You will be king of Mirkwood. I do not know when or how, but you will. Only then will I be able to return."
Legolas asked, "Arelén, Do you love me?"
A gentle kiss was places upon his face. "Legolas, I never stopped."
Waiting until after Legolas as fast asleep, Arelén replaced the short blades into their sheaths.
She smiled at the memory of the day he first got those. Running her hand over the handles "May these protect you upon the dark path you must walk."
Strapping the book satchel over her shoulder, she left the chamber. Finding Haldir posting a guard outside the room.
"How is your brother?" Haldir asked.
"Confused, hurt, angry. A night of good sleep will do him well." Arelén's tone changed to a more serious note: "As will one for you."
After walking Haldir back to healing house "You are not fully recovered. Stay here one more night"
"If you insist." His gray eyes suggested otherwise as he laid down onto his bed.
His face carried a thousand questions. "Arelén, I was..." She placed her hand over his mouth. Her gray eyes plead not to answer.
In silence, Arelén checked Haldir's bandages and set about preparing his tea.
After the last cup of tea, Haldir fell asleep. He would have no nightmares tonight.
Arelén slowly walked over to the other room. Her back was in severe pain.
((It is worth knowing Legolas is safe Don't think anyone would mind if I made something for me.))
Flipping open a book, she could not concentrate enough to read. Few tears dropped onto the pages smearing ink.
The pain of Thranduil's attack, the ride here, curing Haldir, the fight with Legolas became too much for her to bear. She threw her head back in a silent scream.
Letting the scream pass, she put both hands palms down onto the table to hold herself up. Her eyes closed as her body swayed from side to side. Her need for sleep was just as loud as the pain. The oversized chair looked comfortable enough. Master Healer would not mind.
"Arelén, how long since your last sleep" Gladriel's voice interrupted her thoughts.
Turning to face Gladriel, Arelén weakly responded, "Lady, The night before I left Mirkwood."
"Go rest. Rúmil here will show you where." ((You cannot hide your pain from me))
Arelén's responded automatically, "I want to stay."
Gladriel looked at Arelén. ((It is not a matter of want.))
Arelén bowed as she took Rúmil's arm again. "Please let me know when he wakes up." ((You did tell me "You will find your home, but only out of great pain."))
"Of course." ((Welcome home, Arelén.)) *****
Rúmil escorted Arelén to a very large and comfortable chamber. ((Either this space belongs to someone important or it's for visitors))
The first thing Arelén noticed was the bath, freshly filled with hot water.
"If you need anything, let me know." Rúmil offered.
Slowly Arelén nodded as she closed the door. "Thank you Rúmil."
Dark colored fabric from her worn Mirkwood dress fell onto the light colored floor. Leaving her barrette on the table, Arelén walked over to the tub.
Carefully sitting on the tub's edge, she sighed as the hot water reached her skin. The temperature was perfect. Too hot for many, but she liked it.
Holding her breath, she slipped herself into the water.
Reaching for the hanging cloth and soap, she scrubbed off the layers of the last few days. Bringing her back to this place and this time.
Noticing the bath was larger than was she was used to, she stretched out her body. She closed her eyes as her body floated in the still hot water.
Trying one of her meditations, all she heard is Gladriel's "Welcome Home" ringing in her head. Feeling the water's heat dissipating, Arelén released the drain and climbed out. Taking one of the large towels that were hanging upon the wall, she wrapped one around her dripping hair.
Wrapping the other around her body she made her way into the other section of the chamber.
[Sleep.]
Dropping the towels, Arelén lifted the bed's silk cover and fell face first onto the large feather bed. ((I know that smell))
Arelén took another deep breath. ((Sandalwood))
[Sleep.]
Arelén closed her eyes drifting off to sleep.
*****
Arelén felt a change in the room. Keeping her eyes closed she sleepily smiled "Haldir, what are you doing out of bed?"
"What if I was Legolas?" his soft voice questioned.
"Then I would ask how he knew the way to the chambers of Lóthlorien's Guardian and March Warden."
Puzzlement crossed Haldir's face. "That is only recently. How did you know?"
"You said many things when you were feverish. Besides, you talk in your sleep"
"I will have to remember to keep only my closest confidences in my bed."
"Wise policy."
"Lady told me how reluctant you were to leave my side. She sent me with these. I am no healer like yourself, but let me try."
Arelén opened her eyes observing a try of vials and jars. "Seems I am in no position to argue."
Arelén sniffed each one. "This one is for bruises. This one is for circulation. This one for inducing sleep. Would you bring me a cup of hot water?"
Haldir produced a prepared cup of hot water. ((She thought of everything))
Arelén added 6 drops from the shimmering blue vial to the cup and drank it all down. "This one, for inducing sleep, is best taken in a drink. The others have to be applied on the skin."
"Which one should I start with?" Haldir looked puzzled.
Pointing to the yellow hued jar "This one for circulation, followed by the one for bruises. Make sure they are warmed in your hands and applied in a sunwise pattern."
Arelén's eyes closed. "Are you sure you are well enough?"
"The Lady said I was." Haldir responded as he pulled back the light purple silk cover. Accustomed to seeing battle wounds, he flinched at the sight of her back covered with bruises and semi-healed cuts. "What did he do to you?"
"Thranduil hit me, picked me up by my neck then threw me against the wall.
After I stopped breathing, he threw me on the floor." Her voice was flat.
Removing his long sleeved tunic, Haldir lightly chided, "You should be in the healing house more than I."
Arelén groaned in agreement.
Haldir poured a small dose of the circulation mixture in his hands. Waiting a few moments for it to warm up, he started slowly massing from the back of Arleen's neck to her feet.
Arelén never had anyone touch her like this before. Haldir's hands were strong, nimble and had the pattern of calluses from much weapons training. He noticed how comfortable his hand felt on a spot just at the start of her hips.
Arelén pushed back thoughts of how it would feel to be bedded by him.
Arelén instructed just above a whisper. "Now, take a small bit from the green container and place it in the center of a bruise. Cover it with your hand and picture your hand pushing the mixture into the bruise until it is all gone. Take your time with this."
Arelén whimpered as Haldir pushed too hard on one of the larger bruises.
"Awre" {hurt}
Haldir pulled his hand away. "I am sorry."
"Accepted. Keep going please."
When Haldir reached the small of her back, his thoughts turned to the last time his arms were wrapped around there. How he didn't want to let her go. That night his only comfort was Gladriel's promise that "She will return home."
Arelén blushed as his thoughts filled her head. She was too tired and weak to return the favor.
As Haldir pulled his hand away from the last bruise, Arelén finally fell into deep sleep.
Lying next to Arelén, Haldir pulled the cover up over both of them. Running his hand in her hair, he whispered into her ear, "I will never hurt you."
*****
An early morning knock on the door woke Lóthlorien's captain. "M'Lord, the rider from Mirkwood is awake and wishes to leave."
Haldir threw on his tunic, "Stay here. I need to see him." He took a look at the sleeping form in his bed. "She is Lorien now." he thought as he made short work of the distance between the chambers.
Legolas stood in the doorway trying to get past the guard. Seeing Haldir he questioned, "Where is my sister?"
"Sleeping" Haldir answered.
"I asked where, not how."
"The safest place for her to be, my bed."
Anger flashed in Legolas' blue eyes.
"You think so low of me as to take your sister like that?"
"Maybe. Is she well?"
"Her injuries will heal. What causes the King to do that to her?"
"This." Legolas reached in his tunic, pulling out the silver crescent moon pendent. "She refused Thranduil's order to give it to him."
He handed the pendent over to Haldir. "I found where he was hiding it. Please give it back to her."
Haldir replied, "I will. When do you intend to leave?"
"As soon as I can." Legolas noted towards the guard standing in the doorway.
"I will wake Arelén and have your horses waiting for you"
"Thank you."
Haldir nodded and dismissed the guard.
Returning to his chamber, Haldir caught a glimpse of Arelén's recovering back as she donned her new under tunic. ((Thank you Lady))
Arelén turned and smiled.
Haldir returned the smile, "How is my patient this morning?"
Arelén bent backwards a little. "Much better. One or two more sessions and I will be in full health."
He placed one hand on the side of her throat, "Tonight we will work on these."
Placing one hand on his shoulder, her gray eyes met his with a knowing smile. "You might want to keep in mind the mixtures strengthen thoughts and feelings. Especially those of intimate nature."
Haldir stammered, changing the subject, "Legolas wants to see you"
"How is he?" as Arelén broke contact. Her shoulder cracked slightly as she pulled her hair back with her favorite barrette.
"Almost ready to go."
Haldir wrapped his arms around from behind, carefully pulling her tightly close to him. "I also have a surprise for you." He whispered into her ear. Enjoying the look of surprise on her face in the mirror.
The crescent moon pendant hung in front of Arelén's face. "Legolas found it for you."
Her gray eyes carried tears. "T-thank you."
Haldir placed the pendant on her neck and closed the repaired clasp. Arelén caught her breath as Haldir slid one hand under the chain. "Now it is where it belongs." ((What is it about his voice that affects me like this?))
Arelén turned to face Haldir. One hand reached up to caress the side of his face. The other found its place upon his back. Two strong hands of Haldir returned to her back.
Two pairs of gray eyes locked.
"Be mine?"
"Yes."
Leaning into each other, Haldir and Arelén shared their first kiss.
*****
Breaking contact, Haldir noted the crumpled pile of fabric on the floor. "I will have those destroyed."
"Wait." Arelén tore off a piece of fabric right down the seam line. "Now I'm ready"
Arelén and Haldir walked down the staircase to where Legolas was waiting with his horses.
Arelén stepped away from Haldir, "Leaving with out saying goodbye, Brother?"
Legolas gave his sister a warm hug. "Wouldn't consider it, Sister. Are you sure you will not go with me?"
Arelén's eyes reflected the morning sunlight. "I am home."
Acceptance crossed Legolas' face as he nodded. He looked over his sister's shoulder giving Haldir a small bow.
"Please give your guard, Valandi, my thanks. He is loyal to you."
"Yes he is. Any message for Father?"
Arelén handed over a bloody, torn and ripped sleeve from her old gown. "Tell Thranduil that you saw the marks of an Orc attack and that this is all that remains."
"He will know I am lying to him."
"This is merely a combination of two truths. You did see the marks of an attack as you rode in and this is all that remains of my old dress."
Legolas looked a bit confused, but understood her reasoning. "I will." Giving his sister a kiss on her cheek, he climbed onto one of the horses.
"Grace of the Valars protect you, sweet brother"
Arelén stood and watched until the shapes of Legolas and the horses disappear over the horizon.
*****
A thousand summers crossed over Lóthlorien.
Before taking his journey to the West, the Master Healer passed his mantle onto Arelén's shoulders. "You are charged with the health and well being of everyone here."
All was well, until what was forgotten was once again found.
Four days later Arelén arrived at the edge of Lorien's woods. Noticing fresh marks of an attack, she slowed down her horse.
Surrounded by Rúmil and a few others. "I am Arelén. I seek sanctuary here."
A look of relief crosses Rúmil's face. "Are you the one Haldir is asking for?"
"How mean you cousin?"
"We were attacked not long ago by Orcs and are in need for a healer."
Arelén slid off her horse. "You have my assistance as much as I can give"
"Over here. We dared not move him."
Haldir laid at the roots of a large tree. Blood stained the roots and surrounding ground. He has many gashes, arrow, blade wounds, bruises from combat and is in and out of sentience.
((Can this be him?)) "Rúmil, have you any water in your supplies?"
"Some" "Bring me that, as clean cloth as you can find, arrows shafts, bow wax/resin and what herbs you can find." Picking up the right hand, she notices the very faint scar. ((oh, gods it is him))
[What do you see?]
((Mostly external injuries, but there are some bruises forming on the inside, much bleeding. Poison on blade wounds))
Haldir opens his eyes halfway "Arelén?"
"Yes. Be still. You are badly wounded."
Muttering incoherently, Haldir closes his eyes.
Rúmil returns with all supplies. Quick look over herbs. Lumin, Rocbilo and Serena.
"Sit, you will need to help me. Crush these and mix with a bit of water."
[The first threat is the bleeding. Stop that first.]
Arelén crushes some leaves onto the most severe bleeding. "Wrap a tight bandage over this."
[Slow the poison.]
Arelén rummaged in her bag pulling out a red colored liquid in a vial. ((I do not remember packing that))
"Rúmil, sit him up. Orophin, Hold his arms."
Sitting on Haldir's legs, Arelén warmed the vial in her hands. Opening the vial Arelén warned, "This is going to hurt. Hold him as best you can."
Haldir's body convulsed as the first drop of the mixture bubbled and hissed on the poison.
Whispering into his ear, "Haldir, I know this hurts. Hatu talge. I will take some of your pain" {calm your self}
Drop by drop, Arelén emptied the vial.
Eventually, Haldir's movement ceases.
"Orophin, hand me that cup please."
Leaning in close, Arelén stared into Haldir's pain-filled tearing eyes.
"Haldir, listen to me. You need to drink this. It will deaden the pain."
Arelén held the cup for Haldir as he drank. The effects were immediate as he fell into Arelén's arms and blacked out.
Cradling Haldir in her arms, Arelén looked at the younger brothers. "There is only so much I can do here. We must get him back."
*****
Orophin and Rúmil carried Haldir's body into the Healing house.
Trying to settle Haldir into a bed, he fought an invisible opponent. Arelén dodged a fierce swing just in time. Orophin wasn't as lucky in his timing.
"He needs to be restrained."
"No - Wait." Arelén wrapped her hands behind Haldir's head.
She started quietly chanting.
"Lastu beth nin Haldir. Hatu talge. Lastu beth nin Haldir. Hatu talge." {Hear my voice, Haldir. Calm your self.}
Haldir ceased his struggling, relaxed and fell back into sleep.
"How do you do that?" asked the healer.
Arelén released her hold and looked at the healer. "It's a gift."
Loiren's Healer and Arelén spent the next hour dressing Haldir's wounds and dealing with the poison residue.
The Healer examined a sample of the poison. "It is of Orc make. Your remedy worked very well. But it will take some time to work through his system."
Having stabilized Haldir's injuries, Lorien's Healer grasped Arelén's shoulder. "We have done all we can. It is up to his spirit now."
The Healer looked at Arelén. "You are greatly wounded my child."
Arelén pushed the pain out of her mind. "Not as much as he is. Which herbs are you using on the wounds?"
As Haldir slept, Arelén added fresh herbs to new bandages. ((Why would he remember me? Why call for me when he was injured?))
[Why did you call for him as you died?]
The night passed with a few moments of hallucinations.
Haldir's only comfort came from his hearing the angel's voice. Wrapped in her arms he knew no darkness would touch him.
The second day passed with little change. Haldir's nightmares lessened. Wounds healed with no scarring.
Despite the Healer's protests and pleas, and the growing pain in her back, Arelén would not leave Haldir's side. Her focus was exclusively on healing Haldir. ((He would do the same for me))
Arelén faced the healer. "I will watch him tonight. Go rest. I will let you know if there is any change." Sensing that arguing was going to be pointless, the Healer walked off to his chambers.
After sunset on the second day, Haldir awoke. Seeing an unfocused outline of a dark haired elf he weakly spoke, "Arelén?"
Arelén turned around and brushed Haldir's face with a damp cloth "Yes. I am here"
"I thought you were a dream."
Smile crossed her gray eyes "How are you feeling?"
Recognition returned to his eyes. "Much better knowing you are real."
"I have some soup if you are hungry." Nodded to her uneaten dinner the healer brought.
"I am well. Come sit with me."
"If not dinner, then at least drink this. The poison is almost completely out of your system."
Arelén sat on the side of Haldir's bed, holding his hand as he drank the tea. Running her finger over the scar. "I now know better. There will be no scars this time"
"Where is yours?" as he put the cup down on the table.
Arelén hung her head, hair falling over her face. Using his free hand, Haldir pushed back the fall of dark hair and pulled up her chin. Not asking about the faded bruises around her neck and small cuts on her mouth.
"It was taken from me." Arelén's voice cracked with fresh memory.
"It was yours alone. Looks like you put up quite a fight"
"Haldir. Arelén." Both turned towards the familiar voice.
Arelén stood off the bed and bowed her head. Pulling her hand away from Haldir's grip. Feeling very ashamed of how disheveled and unkempt she looks. "Lady"
Haldir tried to move, but Gladriel's smile held him fast. Gladriel made her way to the side of Haldir's bed, examining her son. "You have done well Arelén." Her voice carried pride, satisfaction and great relief. ((He will live))
A small blush crossed Arelén's face. "Master Healer provided the necessary herbs and guidance. Thank you." ((I would not let him die. I know what he means not only to you but your people))
Gladriel's face smiled in gratitude. "What do you seek?"
"Sanctuary." Arelén's voice was a faint whisper. ((a home))
Gladriel looked at Arelén. "Granted. Your heart lies elsewhere"
"I am greatly concerned about my brother still in Mirkwood."
((He is well. You protect him still)) "Another rider from Mirkwood recently
arrived. Mayhap they have news of your brother?"
Arelén was puzzled. "I have only left there 6 suns ago. How did they follow so closely? Only their fastest rider can make that journey in better time"
"They are down one level. Rúmil will take you there."
Haldir moved to get out of his bed. "I am well enough Lady, I will escort Arelén."
Lady's gentle voice held him still, "Haldir, you rest a while more."
Rúmil and Arelén walked down the path to the open landing.
Standing upon the far edge was one cloaked, road worn rider.
Arelén composed herself. "Rider, have you news of Mirkwood?"
Removing his hood, the rider uncovered the unmistakable face and smile of Legolas. "Of course, sister."
Arelén ran across the platform and hugged Legolas tightly.
"Why did you leave me?" Was his first question.
Arelén looked away. "I had no choice."
Legolas continued. "These are strangers to us. You do not know how to defend your self. Come home"
"I appreciate your concern brother, but I can take care of myself."
His plea continued, "I want you to come home. Father is willing to forgive everything and welcome you back"
Arelén's gray eyes lost their focus. "Thranduil has ordered his guards to kill me on sight. Until you are King, I am to never set foot in Mirkwood again."
Legolas grabbed Arelén's hands and pulled her to edge of platform. "Look - I have the two fastest horses and full provisions. We can go anywhere you want. Rivendell? The Shire? Anywhere"
Gray eyes meet the light blue pleading eyes as she stepped back from the edge. "Legolas, I am home."
Legolas shook his head "No. Not here"
Arelén smiled "Yes - Here"
Rúmil caught his older brother as Haldir made the final few steps onto the platform.
Legolas grabbed his sister by the shoulders. "I will not let them take you"
Haldir stepped forward "I may be injured, but I can still take you"
"Stop this." Arelén's voice implored.
A flash of silver brought Legolas' knife to Arelén's throat. "I will not let him take you away from me."
"Why?"
"I have to protect you. That is what brothers do"
"Would you kill me to protect me?" Arelén questioned.
"From him, yes"
"Legolas, brother, listen to yourself. You are not making sense"
"Yes I am."
"Then, my dear brother, we are at an impasse."
Arelén grabbed the knife handle, swept her leg behind her brother's knees and knocked him to the ground.
Pressing the tip of the knife to his throat, "I no longer need your protection, brother"
Light blue eyes flamed in anger. "Yes you do."
Legolas kicked Arelén off balance, falling her backwards.
Haldir and Rúmil took steps forward. Arelén waved them off.
Legolas drew his second blade and attacked.
Catching the second handle as she stepped aside, Arelén tripped her brother onto the platform. Pinning the blond haired one down, she brought both blades to just above his neck.
"You nor anyone can harm me. Do you believe me now, Brother?" Arelén's dark voice growled.
Light blue eyes grew wide as awe and amazement crossed his face. ((She has that look again)) "Yes" Tears made pools in his eyes. "Let me up."
"No more?"
"No more."
Arelén pulled Legolas up into sitting position. ((Oh gods this hurts)) A few deep breaths later she released her distress.
Looking towards the other two upon the platform, "Haldir, Rúmil, can we have a few moments alone please?"
Bewilderment, pride, amazement crossed Haldir's face as he and Rúmil walked off the landing. Out of sight but still nearby.
Arelén sat next to Legolas "You will always be a part of my life. My first remembrances are of my big, strong bother protecting me. Things have changed. I can no longer hold onto your hand. I must walk my own path."
"But they have bewitched you..." Legolas was close to tears.
"No. This is of my own choice."
"Why him?"
"I am not one to know the why of the gods. It's not only Haldir - this is where I was to be. From the first time we came here I knew this is my home."
Legolas sighed deeply as he wrapped his arms around Arelén's shoulders.
"The night you left, Father came into our room in his full anger. He raised his hand but he could not move it anywhere close to me. He said he heard your words and saw your eyes."
Arelén ran her fingers through his light hair. "He will not harm you as long as I live. His anger can not break my spell."
Legolas handed over another well-worn satchel, "I brought you something."
Arelén opened the satchel. A look of utter disbelief crossed her face. "My books! You saved my books!"
Blue eyes smiled. "The King ordered your possessions destroyed. When I was excused, I remembered your private place and went there to gather up what you had hidden in there."
Arelén's face carried shock and happiness. Fighting back a tear she asked, "How long can you stay?"
"Not very long. I told Father I was going out hunting."
Arelén stood up, "He will be furious with you."
"As you said, he will never hurt me again." Sly smile crosses his face.
"At least stay the night and start off in the morning."
"I will"
Walking off past Haldir and Rúmil, Arelén waved off their attempt to follow.
*****
They find a small but comfortable chamber for Legolas.
As Legolas readied for bed, Arelén made him a cup of tea. "This will help you sleep."
Arelén tucked Legolas into bed - turning off the light.
"What did you mean by 'Until you are king?" His soft voice questioned.
Arelén sighed. "You will be king of Mirkwood. I do not know when or how, but you will. Only then will I be able to return."
Legolas asked, "Arelén, Do you love me?"
A gentle kiss was places upon his face. "Legolas, I never stopped."
Waiting until after Legolas as fast asleep, Arelén replaced the short blades into their sheaths.
She smiled at the memory of the day he first got those. Running her hand over the handles "May these protect you upon the dark path you must walk."
Strapping the book satchel over her shoulder, she left the chamber. Finding Haldir posting a guard outside the room.
"How is your brother?" Haldir asked.
"Confused, hurt, angry. A night of good sleep will do him well." Arelén's tone changed to a more serious note: "As will one for you."
After walking Haldir back to healing house "You are not fully recovered. Stay here one more night"
"If you insist." His gray eyes suggested otherwise as he laid down onto his bed.
His face carried a thousand questions. "Arelén, I was..." She placed her hand over his mouth. Her gray eyes plead not to answer.
In silence, Arelén checked Haldir's bandages and set about preparing his tea.
After the last cup of tea, Haldir fell asleep. He would have no nightmares tonight.
Arelén slowly walked over to the other room. Her back was in severe pain.
((It is worth knowing Legolas is safe Don't think anyone would mind if I made something for me.))
Flipping open a book, she could not concentrate enough to read. Few tears dropped onto the pages smearing ink.
The pain of Thranduil's attack, the ride here, curing Haldir, the fight with Legolas became too much for her to bear. She threw her head back in a silent scream.
Letting the scream pass, she put both hands palms down onto the table to hold herself up. Her eyes closed as her body swayed from side to side. Her need for sleep was just as loud as the pain. The oversized chair looked comfortable enough. Master Healer would not mind.
"Arelén, how long since your last sleep" Gladriel's voice interrupted her thoughts.
Turning to face Gladriel, Arelén weakly responded, "Lady, The night before I left Mirkwood."
"Go rest. Rúmil here will show you where." ((You cannot hide your pain from me))
Arelén's responded automatically, "I want to stay."
Gladriel looked at Arelén. ((It is not a matter of want.))
Arelén bowed as she took Rúmil's arm again. "Please let me know when he wakes up." ((You did tell me "You will find your home, but only out of great pain."))
"Of course." ((Welcome home, Arelén.)) *****
Rúmil escorted Arelén to a very large and comfortable chamber. ((Either this space belongs to someone important or it's for visitors))
The first thing Arelén noticed was the bath, freshly filled with hot water.
"If you need anything, let me know." Rúmil offered.
Slowly Arelén nodded as she closed the door. "Thank you Rúmil."
Dark colored fabric from her worn Mirkwood dress fell onto the light colored floor. Leaving her barrette on the table, Arelén walked over to the tub.
Carefully sitting on the tub's edge, she sighed as the hot water reached her skin. The temperature was perfect. Too hot for many, but she liked it.
Holding her breath, she slipped herself into the water.
Reaching for the hanging cloth and soap, she scrubbed off the layers of the last few days. Bringing her back to this place and this time.
Noticing the bath was larger than was she was used to, she stretched out her body. She closed her eyes as her body floated in the still hot water.
Trying one of her meditations, all she heard is Gladriel's "Welcome Home" ringing in her head. Feeling the water's heat dissipating, Arelén released the drain and climbed out. Taking one of the large towels that were hanging upon the wall, she wrapped one around her dripping hair.
Wrapping the other around her body she made her way into the other section of the chamber.
[Sleep.]
Dropping the towels, Arelén lifted the bed's silk cover and fell face first onto the large feather bed. ((I know that smell))
Arelén took another deep breath. ((Sandalwood))
[Sleep.]
Arelén closed her eyes drifting off to sleep.
*****
Arelén felt a change in the room. Keeping her eyes closed she sleepily smiled "Haldir, what are you doing out of bed?"
"What if I was Legolas?" his soft voice questioned.
"Then I would ask how he knew the way to the chambers of Lóthlorien's Guardian and March Warden."
Puzzlement crossed Haldir's face. "That is only recently. How did you know?"
"You said many things when you were feverish. Besides, you talk in your sleep"
"I will have to remember to keep only my closest confidences in my bed."
"Wise policy."
"Lady told me how reluctant you were to leave my side. She sent me with these. I am no healer like yourself, but let me try."
Arelén opened her eyes observing a try of vials and jars. "Seems I am in no position to argue."
Arelén sniffed each one. "This one is for bruises. This one is for circulation. This one for inducing sleep. Would you bring me a cup of hot water?"
Haldir produced a prepared cup of hot water. ((She thought of everything))
Arelén added 6 drops from the shimmering blue vial to the cup and drank it all down. "This one, for inducing sleep, is best taken in a drink. The others have to be applied on the skin."
"Which one should I start with?" Haldir looked puzzled.
Pointing to the yellow hued jar "This one for circulation, followed by the one for bruises. Make sure they are warmed in your hands and applied in a sunwise pattern."
Arelén's eyes closed. "Are you sure you are well enough?"
"The Lady said I was." Haldir responded as he pulled back the light purple silk cover. Accustomed to seeing battle wounds, he flinched at the sight of her back covered with bruises and semi-healed cuts. "What did he do to you?"
"Thranduil hit me, picked me up by my neck then threw me against the wall.
After I stopped breathing, he threw me on the floor." Her voice was flat.
Removing his long sleeved tunic, Haldir lightly chided, "You should be in the healing house more than I."
Arelén groaned in agreement.
Haldir poured a small dose of the circulation mixture in his hands. Waiting a few moments for it to warm up, he started slowly massing from the back of Arleen's neck to her feet.
Arelén never had anyone touch her like this before. Haldir's hands were strong, nimble and had the pattern of calluses from much weapons training. He noticed how comfortable his hand felt on a spot just at the start of her hips.
Arelén pushed back thoughts of how it would feel to be bedded by him.
Arelén instructed just above a whisper. "Now, take a small bit from the green container and place it in the center of a bruise. Cover it with your hand and picture your hand pushing the mixture into the bruise until it is all gone. Take your time with this."
Arelén whimpered as Haldir pushed too hard on one of the larger bruises.
"Awre" {hurt}
Haldir pulled his hand away. "I am sorry."
"Accepted. Keep going please."
When Haldir reached the small of her back, his thoughts turned to the last time his arms were wrapped around there. How he didn't want to let her go. That night his only comfort was Gladriel's promise that "She will return home."
Arelén blushed as his thoughts filled her head. She was too tired and weak to return the favor.
As Haldir pulled his hand away from the last bruise, Arelén finally fell into deep sleep.
Lying next to Arelén, Haldir pulled the cover up over both of them. Running his hand in her hair, he whispered into her ear, "I will never hurt you."
*****
An early morning knock on the door woke Lóthlorien's captain. "M'Lord, the rider from Mirkwood is awake and wishes to leave."
Haldir threw on his tunic, "Stay here. I need to see him." He took a look at the sleeping form in his bed. "She is Lorien now." he thought as he made short work of the distance between the chambers.
Legolas stood in the doorway trying to get past the guard. Seeing Haldir he questioned, "Where is my sister?"
"Sleeping" Haldir answered.
"I asked where, not how."
"The safest place for her to be, my bed."
Anger flashed in Legolas' blue eyes.
"You think so low of me as to take your sister like that?"
"Maybe. Is she well?"
"Her injuries will heal. What causes the King to do that to her?"
"This." Legolas reached in his tunic, pulling out the silver crescent moon pendent. "She refused Thranduil's order to give it to him."
He handed the pendent over to Haldir. "I found where he was hiding it. Please give it back to her."
Haldir replied, "I will. When do you intend to leave?"
"As soon as I can." Legolas noted towards the guard standing in the doorway.
"I will wake Arelén and have your horses waiting for you"
"Thank you."
Haldir nodded and dismissed the guard.
Returning to his chamber, Haldir caught a glimpse of Arelén's recovering back as she donned her new under tunic. ((Thank you Lady))
Arelén turned and smiled.
Haldir returned the smile, "How is my patient this morning?"
Arelén bent backwards a little. "Much better. One or two more sessions and I will be in full health."
He placed one hand on the side of her throat, "Tonight we will work on these."
Placing one hand on his shoulder, her gray eyes met his with a knowing smile. "You might want to keep in mind the mixtures strengthen thoughts and feelings. Especially those of intimate nature."
Haldir stammered, changing the subject, "Legolas wants to see you"
"How is he?" as Arelén broke contact. Her shoulder cracked slightly as she pulled her hair back with her favorite barrette.
"Almost ready to go."
Haldir wrapped his arms around from behind, carefully pulling her tightly close to him. "I also have a surprise for you." He whispered into her ear. Enjoying the look of surprise on her face in the mirror.
The crescent moon pendant hung in front of Arelén's face. "Legolas found it for you."
Her gray eyes carried tears. "T-thank you."
Haldir placed the pendant on her neck and closed the repaired clasp. Arelén caught her breath as Haldir slid one hand under the chain. "Now it is where it belongs." ((What is it about his voice that affects me like this?))
Arelén turned to face Haldir. One hand reached up to caress the side of his face. The other found its place upon his back. Two strong hands of Haldir returned to her back.
Two pairs of gray eyes locked.
"Be mine?"
"Yes."
Leaning into each other, Haldir and Arelén shared their first kiss.
*****
Breaking contact, Haldir noted the crumpled pile of fabric on the floor. "I will have those destroyed."
"Wait." Arelén tore off a piece of fabric right down the seam line. "Now I'm ready"
Arelén and Haldir walked down the staircase to where Legolas was waiting with his horses.
Arelén stepped away from Haldir, "Leaving with out saying goodbye, Brother?"
Legolas gave his sister a warm hug. "Wouldn't consider it, Sister. Are you sure you will not go with me?"
Arelén's eyes reflected the morning sunlight. "I am home."
Acceptance crossed Legolas' face as he nodded. He looked over his sister's shoulder giving Haldir a small bow.
"Please give your guard, Valandi, my thanks. He is loyal to you."
"Yes he is. Any message for Father?"
Arelén handed over a bloody, torn and ripped sleeve from her old gown. "Tell Thranduil that you saw the marks of an Orc attack and that this is all that remains."
"He will know I am lying to him."
"This is merely a combination of two truths. You did see the marks of an attack as you rode in and this is all that remains of my old dress."
Legolas looked a bit confused, but understood her reasoning. "I will." Giving his sister a kiss on her cheek, he climbed onto one of the horses.
"Grace of the Valars protect you, sweet brother"
Arelén stood and watched until the shapes of Legolas and the horses disappear over the horizon.
*****
A thousand summers crossed over Lóthlorien.
Before taking his journey to the West, the Master Healer passed his mantle onto Arelén's shoulders. "You are charged with the health and well being of everyone here."
All was well, until what was forgotten was once again found.