A/N: Thanks for all the GREAT reviews! We (Suzie and I) appreciate 'em greatly! We know a few people got confused by the whole relations thing, but at our Yahoo group (URL in Suzie's ID) there's a family tree with pictures heh heh.
Crystal Snowflakes: It was sorta long, wasn't it? LOL
Jamie: Okay, first – thanks for doing a great beta job! Now *rubs hands together* I can't wait to see what B does with Leggy's celibacy LOL. Mucho amusing.
KnowInsight: How about a wager? I bet Leggy goes mad within a week heh heh
Dakota: *directs you to Yahoo group via Suzie's ID* family tree ready and waiting!
Silverdracowolf: Have I ever told you that I love your name? You've combined three things that I love altogether…*grins wickedly*. Oh, and btw *hands you an invite to the wedding*…which will be in the sequel – and yes, there will be a sequel! Me and Suzie have had too much fun to just stop here!
Puddykat: In Suzie's author ID there should be a URL to our Yahoo group – under the photos section is a readymade family tree for ya
AragornsFavorite: I know, how will he survive? Hee hee
Frufru the pixie an candyfloss: Don't worry about drawing the family tree – there's a fairly large one with pictures at our Yahoo group *see Suzie's ID* And I don't think Elladan will actually try to control Ty – he'll probably just terrorise Haldir lol
Aneadriel: Here it is, the next chapter! Sorry it took so long, but since the three of us (two authors and beta) are from various parts of the world, things are sort of up in the air – if I wanna talk to both of 'em (Jamie and Suzie) and brainstorm, I have to stay up into the wee hours of the morning!
Elisabeth: Firstly…Tyrael's Elladan's daughter, not son LOL. That would be scary. The family things are sort of confusing, I know, but we didn't really plan this story with great serious intent and making it a masterpiece – or at least, I didn't *looks questioningly at Suzie* I just wanted to test the waters as it were with Suzie, see what we'd be like as a team. Maybe this story isn't perfect by way of relations or something, but we didn't want it to be absolutely perfect – even Elves have Freudian moments, I'm sure!
P3gurl: Who do you wanna jump? It had better not be Haldir, he's mine!!
Calaquendi: Yeah, we thought it'd be happier to have him choose Kalia – the whole 'you're not of my rank' thing always gets up my arse (not literally though LMAO)
Sarah: Wow, thanks! Well, here it is!
Tiggie: Don't worry, there's a LOT more to come…
Ebony: You didn't see it coming, eh? We were worried someone would figure it out, due to hints we were dropping in the story, and a hint our beta dropped in a review a while back…
Unski: Well, I gotta admit, Suzie was the brains behind most of it – I only knew that I wanted Ty to be Elladan's daughter. LOL we spent some nice, brainstorm-filled IMs talking about it
Vendea: Short but sweet. Me likes! *hug*
Ittybittykitty: Yeah, I know it sounds kinda gross, but remember – Ty and Haldir are in NO way related. Ty and Kalia are related from Kalia's father and Ty's mother, and Kalia and Haldir are related by Kalia's mother, so don't worry, there's no major squicks here – I don't like incest stories.
Sokochan: We have much more planned! I'm afraid this story will be coming to a close soon, but not the series. We plan on a sequel…
Simbelmyn: I'm a huge fan of the twins as well! And Rúmil and Orophin, I think they're cool. Btw, don't think you were off the mark with Orophin's odd behaviour – yeah, that part was due to her odd eyes, but there's also something else…
Green*Eyed*Elf*Goddess: *blushes* Gawd, not geniuses! Just two Elf-crazed pervs LOL
Dragonfly: Glad you like it! I wanted a different twist to the normal Haldir – I wanted him to be like three different Elves in one – a grumpy, arrogant March Warden Haldir, a tender, sweet Haldir, and a saucy, perverted Haldir LOL. It's sort of hard to do when you especially love the saucy Haldir
And Now for Suzie's reply. LOL
Dragonfly: I'm glad you liked it, and *smiles* it is kinda romantical isn't it?? I'm glad you think the whole who's related to whom bit is cool. :D it was kinda confusin' even for me, and I thought it up LOL.
GreenEyedElfGoddess: lol Yes, Leggy IS hot. And yes, we shall update!
Simbelmyn: You remind me of me when I was reading FILIHOTK. LOL. I think Andy beat me to the punch, but no, we are not over. Just nearing the close of this part of the fic…do you want a sequel??
Sokochan: Hee, glad you thought it was rather amusing. *GRINS* Stay tuned for horny!Legolas and frustrated!Thandy.
Ittybittykitty: Meow. Couldn't resist LOL.
Vendea: Hee, you said more than enough for me to jump for joy! *hugs*
Unski: lol Kalia is NO plaything, don't worry he was just a wee bit pissy.
Ebony: I'll update as timely as possible, and I'm glad you liked it.
Tiggie: *hands you tissue* u cried? Awww, I didn't mean to make ya weep. We'll give ya more, plenty more LOL.
Sarah: You are right, 18 is FAR too young to die. *updates chappie*
Calaquendi: Love the name btw. Ya we like it when Leggy picks a "real" girl instead of the typical miss perfect. Oh, and Kalia's not some young thang either, as he pointed out before. :D. Ty's the baby actually.
P3gurl: Who *doesn't* wanna jump Leggy boy?? *points to the line behind her, that wraps around the globe.* P.S. if you *really* need help, lemmie know k?
Aneadriel: For someone who's as nearsighted as I am, LOL, I nearly thought your login was mah Andy's. Thanks for the review!
Frufru the Pixie an Candyfloss: You girls made be laugh out loud at work. You all school with NUNS??? Oh good lord. *puts a hand on her forehead*. If you are confused still bout the family tree, see mah Yahoo group under my ID. K?? oh and you should anyway, to join it *hint hint*
Aragorn's favourite: Glad you liked, still havin fun with Aragorn??
Puddykat: Glad you likes it. Hope you read more.
Silverdracowolf: *Hands you rice* Ah, I think I can grant at least part of your request…*grins*
Dakota: I'll gives ya more. =)
KnowInsight: I promise, this shall not be a Mary Sue, not that they are bad,(see Andy's for example). LOL no the celibacy isn't fun…but that doesn't mean it won't be funny.
Jamie(Jaime hehe): DO YOUR HOMEWORK. Ok, now that that's over with. Glad you liked. =)
CrystalSnowflakes: Hee, you're like a celeb man, your stories was one of the first ones I read. S'great to have ya review an likes. *giggles* Thus, I dub thee, "Miss Elves are Not Perfect* I even quoted you, well ur story, in mah MS, which is unfinished at the mo. :/…another day…LOL Yes, the chappie was long, I had a lot to say LOL.
@@@@******One last lil note. Well, two. JOIN OUR YAHOO! GROUP PLEASE! Oh, and a special thanks to our UBERBETA! Jamie! *Hands her a chococovered Lego. YAHO!****@@@@@.
Now, without further ado, we present…
Title: I'm Your Fella, Cinderella
Chapter: 11
Author: Andariel666
POV: Tyrael
I walked along wearily, my eyes downcast at the ground as I dragged my feet. The day should have been a good one, but it was not.
It was my birthday. I was 18 years old, still a very young child with a gangly, masculine frame and eyes that made the other children flinch away. Demon, they called me. Possessed.
My birthdays were always bleak, for I was reminded that I had no Nana and no Ada to hug me and wish me many happy returns. All I had was my adopted father who, although he was a brilliant Elf, was probably not pleased to be lumbered with such a burden.
I gazed at the other Elflings, playing with each other and shrieking with delight. I merely stood there, in my misshapen gown, my face twisted into a sombre frown. Perhaps some day they would accept me? Adar Orevon said they would. But then, Adar Orevon had always been an optimist.
I hung my head, imagining that my birthday might be more bearable if I had my Nana or Ada with me. My Nana, whom I imagined to have dark hair like me, with her arm around my shoulders, helping me blow out the candles on my cake.
And my Ada, whom I also pictured to be dark, smiling at us, embracing us both, creating the perfect family portrait.
But my Nana was dead. And my Ada…
Who knew?
I did not know his name, his appearance – nothing. He was merely part of my blood. That was all I knew.
I felt an overwhelming rush of sadness overcome me, and as I scuffed along, my foot soon caught a jutting rock and I flew down, landing hard on my knees, scraping them quite nastily and drawing blood.
I stared at my knees for a moment, registering the pain. Then I began to cry. Could things possibly get any worse?
I hunched my back, bending down slightly so that my dark hair concealed me from view, as I cried heavily to myself, wishing that this pitiful existence would end, wishing for some sign that I was anything but a task, a burden.
I gasped slightly when I felt someone picking me up. At that age, I was about the size of a mortal five-year-old, so it was simple to move me around.
"Come now, Lisse'corm sweetheart, what ails thee?" A gentle voice asked, and I found myself set on a lap, as hands gently brushed my hair away from my face.
I glanced up through my tears, and felt a jolt of surprise, as I looked into the eyes of Elladan, Lord Elrond's son. To be so close to such an Elf was stunning – not to mention that I felt honoured that he would comfort me.
Yet I saw in his eyes a silent anguish, which, from what I had heard Orevon murmur often to his acquaintances, was apparently there almost permanently these days. He seemed genuinely concerned, as he studied my knees and shins carefully. I sniffled, and before I could consider my actions, I burrowed into his arms, pressing my cheek tightly against his chest and hugged him tightly, not wishing to let go.
He actually hugged me back, his hands stroking my hair, as I felt his heart beat against my cheek and allowed myself to sink into a sort of stupor, with Elladan murmuring soft comforts in my ear.
"What is your name, nessaer young one?" He asked softly.
"Tyrael," I replied.
"And why are you so sad?"
"It is my birthday."
"But Tyrael," Elladan murmured, sounding surprised. "I thought that birthdays were a time of joy?"
"Nay, my lord. For my birthdays are spent without my Nana or my Ada. I have neither, only my adopted Adar."
"I see," Elladan said gently, and his voice did hold emotion. It seemed to be the first time that someone had shown emotion to me, and I involuntarily tightened my grip on him, not wanting to let this discovery slip through my young fingers.
Elladan leaned back slightly, and turned my face towards him, studying me.
"Such amazing eyes," he smiled. "I bet they attract much attention."
"They call me a demon," I muttered dryly.
There was silence for a moment, before Elladan said, "Ignore them, Tyrael. Do not allow others to govern your life and make decisions for you, or you shall regret it. You may let the opportunity of a lifetime escape your reach."
His voice held a pain to it, and I studied him, seeing the unhappy lines of his face. "You have lost someone, my lord?" I asked as gently as I could, not realising in my innocence that I was being out of place. But Elladan did not seem to notice.
"Aye, I have," Elladan murmured. "Not too long ago. Still it pains me to think of her." He was silent, before shaking himself from his reverie, and smiled at me, wiping away the remnants of my tears with his thumb. "Who is your guardian, Lisse'corm?"
"Orevon," I replied.
"Ah, indeed," Elladan nodded. "Well, birthday girl, I feel that I must return you to him, for your wounds need disinfecting, and you should celebrate your birthday in peace, with one whom you are close to. Do you agree?"
"Aye," I nodded, as he stood, still holding me in his arms. My legs were wrapped around his waist, my arms around his neck, as my head rested upon his shoulder. As Elladan carried me, I allowed a small sigh of contentment slip past my lips. My last thought before I slipped into slumber was that perhaps my life would not be so bad after all.
*
I turned over in bed, searching for a comfortable position. I had yet to fall asleep. The excitement from the day had me in a tight thrall. I had an Ada, a real one. I had known him since I was a babe, even though I did not know his relation to me. He did not know it either, and I hoped he was equally pleased to have a daughter.
And now, I had Haldir.
He was mine at last, that arrogant arse. And since I was of noble heritage, apparently, none could complain about our relationship. Of course, we still had to think upon what would happen when he was to return to Lothlórien with the Lady of Light.
I shuddered, acutely aware that it was cold, and I was alone. Despite our newfound – or, more truthfully, new-told – love for each other, he was not with me, which was probably the fault of my Ada, who had slid into the role of fatherhood as easily as changing a tunic (just as I had embraced the idea of him being my Ada, perhaps because of the kindness he had always shown me in the past). I had a feeling that Ada being Ada, Haldir would not have an easy time of it.
I sighed, and rolled over again. I wanted to speak to Ada, and to Haldir. I did not wish to be alone, especially when there was so much to be said, to hear. I was not the least bit tired.
"Go to them both. Speak to them."
I jumped, startled, and stared into the sleepy face of the Prince, standing in the doorway adjoining our rooms. He looked rumpled and sleepy, but had had the decency to pull on some leggings before coming to see me (thank the Valar – as good-looking as he was, he was Kalia's, and truthfully, was no Haldir).
"My lord?"
"Legolas," he corrected sleepily. "I can hear you tossing and turning from my room, Tyrael. Go and speak to them – I do not doubt that they are still awake."
I blinked, and then nodded. I would not be able to sleep anyway. "I think I will. Thank you, Legolas." He nodded, and went back into his room, closing the door. I truly felt sorry for him, being condemned to celibacy until the wedding. It must have been very painful.
I quickly pulled on my usual white blouse, burgundy bodice and green skirt, before I exited my room and started my search. I decided to begin with Elladan…my Ada.
The night's air hit my skin like little insect bites, and I wrapped my arms around myself, groaning as the wind messed my hair up and began its task of making me look worse than normal. It did not take much doing, seeing as my only redeeming feature was my hair.
I wondered where Elladan might be, and walked slowly towards the House of Elrond, remembering with amusement Elrond's supreme shock.
I wondered if coming to see my Ada was really such a good idea. What if what he had done was only to lay a sugar coating on the situation, when my heritage was revealed? Perhaps he did not like me?
I stopped walking and frowned, biting my lip. My courage was slowly melting away. Perhaps I should just leave and go to Haldir, I thought. But then I felt niggling doubts about Haldir too.
"Sauron's balls!" I cursed, shaking my head.
"My, my, such a tongue!" Came an amused voice, and I was surprised and nervous to see Elrohir slowly walking down a different path that cut through some hedgerows. It was just like looking at Elladan, except that Elladan looked more like Elrond then Elrohir did. "What brings you out into this rather chilly night, niece?"
I blinked, feeling stupid. Elrohir was my uncle! Oddly enough, the thought had not properly crossed my mind until now. "Uhhh…Ada – Elladan, is he…?"
Oh, well done, I scolded myself. You sound positively bovine!
Elrohir merely smiled. "Aye, he is. Follow me, my dear." With a quick bow, Elrohir began to walk smoothly and quickly towards his home, with me following behind with slight hesitance.
The house of Elrond truly was beautiful, and the few times I had set my eyes upon its interior beauty, I had been astounded. Now, I was doubly astounded – mainly due to the fact that these beautiful walls had housed my Ada for all this time.
Elrohir moved quickly, but not hurriedly – he merely took confident strides, his long legs moving him at a good pace. "I had wondered if you would speak to him tonight. I am glad you have come."
I flushed slightly. "I am still surprised that all these years, my father was just next door."
Elrohir laughed. "Indeed! It sounds like one of those awful comedy stories that Haldir's brother Rúmil composes! Perhaps he shall show you." My uncle sent me a sidelong look, and I almost sighed. Both Haldir and I were going to be on the receiving end of many lectures. "And speaking of that family…you do know what you shall be stepping into? Haldir is, of course, a good Elf. Though I must say, he has the biggest stick up his derriere in all of Arda…" I burst out laughing. "But should you ever need either Elladan or I…"
I was touched, and a smile spread over my lips. "I do not think I should be needing it, Uncle Elrohir." At his title, he smiled. "You see, it is I who damages Haldir, not the other way around." I outlined the story of when I accidentally hit Haldir's Elfhood, and Elrohir was practically on his knees in laughter. He had just managed to gain a small ounce of control, when I said, "Thankfully, it has not hindered his usefulness."
Instantly understanding me, Elrohir began laughing all over again. "Aye me, you are definitely your father's daughter!" He gasped for breath. I could not help but smile at his flushed cheeks, the wide grin.
"Come now, what is all this racket?" Came an exasperated voice, and Ada appeared in the hallway, an eyebrow raised. He blinked. "Tyrael?"
I smiled slightly. "Aye."
"She is all yours, brother," Elrohir said, still chuckling.
He turned away, muttering about having enough ammunition at Haldir for a millennia.
Elladan was just standing there for a moment, and I considered turning away and running.
When serious, his eyes were quite shocking, and I felt uncomfortable to be caught in their gaze.
He shook himself. "How rude of me! Come, join me." He gestured to the room he had just come out of, and I nodded, following him inside.
The room was quite cluttered, filled with many little trinkets and necessities. It seemed oddly personal, and I felt a little closer to my newfound Ada. I sat when he gestured me to a chair, and he sat opposite me.
It seemed ridiculous, but I could now see our similarities, whereas I had not for the past 1,988 years. Our eye shapes were the same, we had the same mouths, and even our noses were similar. Whose hair did I have, though? His, or my Nana's? I had never known my Nana, and Orevon had never indulged me on her with anything further than her name. Ava.
"Forgive the mess," Ada said sheepishly. "I was not expecting a visitor."
"'Tis no worse than my room at the moment," I replied, thinking over the mess that was still there from when Kalia had been teaching me to dance. When returning to my room to retire to my bed, I had stepped on a stray piece of broken china, before tripping over various fallen objects. I cleared my throat. "I…felt that we should talk."
"Indeed," Elladan nodded, smiling. "Would you like a drink first?"
"Oh, no thank you," I smiled. "I am not really thirsty."
Ada nodded, before he said, "I should have seen her in you. You may look more like myself, but you have many of her mannerisms, and even some of her features. Your jaw-lines are similar."
I noted the saddened, faraway look in his eyes. "What did she look like, Ada? I was never told anything about her."
"Nothing?!" Elladan looked scandalised. "I should have thought Orevon would tell you of her, at least her appearance!"
"'Twas a tender subject for him," I replied quietly. "She was like a sister to him. It pained him to think of her."
Ada was silent for a moment, before he said, "She was not dark haired. She had golden hair, with waves. Beautiful hair. Her eyes…well, let us just say, brown eyes are extremely rare among Elves. She had them. I guess this also adds to the fact that you and she were of the Ithilien." He stood up suddenly, and pulled open a drawer in his desk. I saw him feel around the panels inside, and gaped as he opened a secret compartment. From it, he pulled out some rolls of parchment. Without saying anything, he handed them to me.
I opened them slowly, to find various charcoal drawings of a young elleth, with what seemed to be fair hair, and dark eyes, with pale skin and a slim figure but broad shoulders. She was depicted in several different positions. In one, she was folding washing. In another, she was sleeping. In another, she was reading a book. There were many pictures of her here, and I smiled. I was finally seeing my mother. My favourite, though, was a true work of art.
Although the pictures were signed with my Ada's name, this drawing proved that he was the artist. The view of Ava was from behind. You could see her back, as she sat on a stool in a white nightgown, staring into a vanity mirror, her golden hair tumbling over her shoulders. She was staring into the mirror with a slight smile, although her eyes were not on her reflection.
They were on the reflection of Elladan, who was sitting on the bed behind her, clasping the parchment and a stick of charcoal, looking at her lovingly in the mirror.
"I feel foolish," I murmured. "I had always imagined her to have dark hair, like me."
"'Aye, your hair is dark indeed," Ada nodded, smiling. "'Tis the hair of my sister. You have yet to meet her properly."
He paused.
"I would like to draw you."
"What?" I was startled. "Draw…me? Why?"
"I like to draw people," Elladan replied, looking awkward. "It is a memoir, something I can keep with me forever…"
Should anything happen to them, I finished silently. "I would be honoured, Ada. Though I must confess, I am not one for sitting still."
He chuckled. "Then you are certainly like me."
I sighed. "It is overwhelming…all these years I have believed that I shall never know anything of my family, my kin. And now…"
"And now you have uncles, aunts, grandfathers and fathers?" Ada grinned.
"And speaking of grandfathers, I believe my Ada shall be wanting to see you. He probably wishes to apologise for the inconvenience of you being a servant for us for all these years." Ada pulled a face, showing his own distaste at my past life.
I laughed. "At least it has weaned me to the perfect makings of a wife!"
A look crossed Ada's face, and I cursed myself for mentioning it.
"Speaking of such things," he said, attempting to sound nonchalant. "What is your relationship with the Monotone March Warden?"
I burst out laughing at his nickname for my lover. What would he say to that? I wished I could have thought of it myself, and then I could have used it in my speech in the kitchens.
When I finally calmed down, I said, "He says he loves me. And I love him too. He is a good Elf, even if he can be sharp of tongue. I am no better."
Elladan frowned all the same. "I have known Haldir for some time, and I know him to be a good Elf. Perhaps he would even be a good husband. But I would feel safer speaking to him myself. I know that he has left a trail of broken hearts all over Lothlórien…"
Husband? Who had said anything about marriage? I had not.
But now that I thought about it – why wouldn't we be wed? If he truly loved me like he said, then wouldn't he want to marry me?
"When next you see your March Warden, which, no doubt, shall be soon," Elladan smirked, "Tell him to meet me at the archery ranges tomorrow. He will know the time."
"I shall do," I replied, feeling sorry for Haldir.
Ada cracked his knuckles. "Oh, I shall beat Haldir at archery this time. He only won last time because that strange maiden from the bakery pinched my rear as I was aiming."
I cringed.
"Elsorien pinched your rear? Oh Ada, that is awful!" I shuddered.
Elsorien was quite plain and in some ways, she was even unattractive, but it was also obvious that she was practically open to any Elf who wanted a good time. Not only that, but she did not seem to delight in the hygienic goodness of a bath.
Disgusting.
I smirked. "Perhaps this time you would wish for me to pinch Haldir's rear, as a distraction?"
Ada grinned. "Hmmm, it does sound tempting. But then, I wish to have a private discussion with Haldir. I do not want you dropping any eaves, my dear."
I sighed. "As you wish, Ada, perhaps another time. Just ask me any time – I shall be ready to pinch him into a frenzy."
Ada snorted. "I'll bet. Now, off with you, daughter, it is late, and you shall look terrible in the morn if you do not get any sleep!"
I nodded, deciding not to provoke a lecture by telling him that I was actually going to Haldir's.
"Indeed," I smiled.
I leaned in and kissed him on the cheek. "Goodnight, Ada. I shall see you in the morrow."
"And you, daughter," Elladan smiled, kissing me on the forehead lightly.
"Remember. Archery ranges, tomorrow."
"I shall not forget," I chuckled. "Good night, Ada."
*
Emboldened by my chat with my Ada, I found myself walking to Haldir's on confident feet. In fact, my confidence only faded when I found myself at his door. What if he did not want me here? What if I angered him by awakening him? Or what if I awoke Kalia?
With a frustrated grunt, I steeled myself. If he loves me, he will not be angry, I told myself distantly. I raised my hand and rapped on the door.
It opened seconds later, and I was pleased to see that Haldir looked very much awake, in leggings, a black tunic, and bare feet. He had bigger feet than me, which was good – I had rather big feet. His impassive gaze broke as his eyebrows rose when he saw who I was.
"Tyrael," he smiled. "I was not expecting you…" He stepped aside to allow me entrance, and I stepped into the room, hearing him close the door. My eyes were busy roving over his many weapons scattered about the room like decoration.
"I could not sleep," I confessed, turning to face him. "I think I have had too much excitement."
He chuckled. "Aye. What with discovering that you have a whole family." He paused. "And, if I may be so bold as to say so, it is not everyday someone confesses their love to you with their leggings down."
I laughed as softly as I could, trying not to disturb Kalia next door.
"Would you like some tea?" Haldir asked.
I raised an eyebrow when he emphasised the word 'tea'. He merely gave me a look that dared me to challenge him.
"Tea would be lovely, thank you," I replied, resigned, and somewhat thirsty after my talk with Elladan. Something told me that Haldir would fight tooth and nail to stop me from drinking so much – or even drinking at all.
He smiled that devastating smile, and moved to the small kitchenette built into his room. I watched him carefully as he moved, assessing his fluid movements. It seemed almost amusing, as he made the tea – I never would have pictured Haldir making tea at all. The gesture seem, well, almost too tame for him.
"You are staring," he said simply.
"Aye," I nodded. "I am waiting for you to pull your leggings down again."
He laughed.
"Perhaps I should indulge you, then?"
I smiled. "Nay. I would much rather take them off myself."
"Indeed." He gave me a smouldering look as he continued preparing the tea. I merely gave him a suggestive smile.
"I went to see my Ada," I said, scraping some of my hair behind my ear.
Haldir glanced up. "How are you and Elladan getting along?"
I smiled thoughtfully. "Quite well, actually. I am still surprised at having a ready-made family just spring up, but I am also very grateful I was able to accept him as my Ada. I suppose I should thank the Lady…"
"I am certain she was pleased to help her great-granddaughter," Haldir smiled, and I started. It had not occurred to me that I was a relation to her.
"Great-Gra…oh my."
Haldir gestured for me to sit, placing the tea on the table. He then sat next to me, on the large, high-backed royal blue couch seat. I smiled slightly, remembering all that we had done within only a few hours of finding each other.
Dear Valar, that Elf had stamina.
"It did not even strike you once that she is a relation of yours?" He asked, sounding amused.
"Nay, for I never would have believed it should someone have told me," I replied. "And the same for Kalia. We look nothing alike."
"That is because you seem to look more like your Ada, who is not a relation to Kalia," Haldir replied. "It is simple to see Elladan in you."
Feeling curious, I asked, "Which of your parents do you most look like, Haldir?"
"I too am more like my Adar, Halthon," he replied, and I wondered at the formal addressing. "Rúmil and Orophin take after our Nana, Eruntale."
I drank some of my tea. "Mmmm. You should make tea more often – this is good."
He chuckled, but said nothing. He appeared slightly distant, but said softly, "Perhaps you shall meet Adar someday. You will not be able to meet Nana though, I am afraid. She passed to the Grey Havens many years ago."
"You have already met my Ada," I said, then gasped. "Oh, I almost forgot! Ada wishes to see you tomorrow at the archery ranges. He said that you would know the time."
Haldir seemed to cringe slightly. "Something tells me he shall attempt to make my life difficult."
I smiled, and kissed him on the cheek. "I should not think you will have too much trouble. He has a soft-spot for this sort of thing, you see." I snickered. "Our situations – ours and Kalia and Legolas's – are very similar to what was happening with him and Ava. The situations must have brought back memories for him."
"But you are his only daughter," Haldir countered, and I noticed that he had somehow managed to get some of my hair off my shoulders, and was absent-mindedly wrapping it around his fingers. "Fathers with only one daughter are much, much worse."
"And you should know?" I smirked.
"I would rather not remember it. I still have nightmares."
I grinned, and noticed for the first time that his braids were undone. He looked different somehow – more relaxed. I told him thus.
He frowned slightly. "I do not often let my hair down – in both the literal and hypothetical senses," he said dryly, noting the amused look I gave him. "I find that it makes me appear too much like my Adar."
I realised that there must have been much friction between Haldir and his father, but I decided not to bring it up. Instead, I asked a question that had been at the edge of my mind since the ball.
"How did you know Orevon?"
"He came to Lothlórien some time before the war in which he perished," Haldir replied. "He brought message and extra recruits to aid Lórien from a particularly nasty Orc band that hoped to decimate the Golden Wood."
"I remember that!" I gasped. "I had been left in the 'care' of Layadwen." I sneered at the name, before shaking my head. "I was 100-odd summers around that time." It was odd to think that my adopted Adar had met my future lover a millennia or so before I did.
"He was a brave warrior," Haldir said softly, combing some of my hair away from my face with his fingers. "Many mourned him."
I had seen Orevon. Upon the day of the return of the Elves who had left to fight, I had been in the street, having been turned away by an angry and hostile Layadwen. And I had seen the horse-drawn cart, which bore the waxen, lifeless body of my adopted Adar.
"'Tis late," Haldir murmured. "We should sleep." He placed a quick kiss on my forehead, before rising. He strode over to his bed, where he began to remove his tunic.
"Aye," I said, reluctant to leave. "I should retire, for tomorrow will no doubt be a long day." I rose, stretching. "So, I shall see you tomorrow? Perhaps after Ada drags you over the coals?"
He winced slightly, but raised an eyebrow. "Who says you are leaving?"
I smirked.
"Surely you do not expect me to stay here, March Warden? Would that not give your dear niece a heart-attack should she come to see you?"
Haldir smirked back. "She knocks first. And waits before entering. There should not be a problem."
His tunic was off, and I could only squeal and glance away when he pushed his leggings down over his hips.
"Haldir!"
"What? You have seen me before."
I sighed, shaking my head. "I thought you did not sleep naked."
"Normally, I do not," he replied simply.
"Oh, so you are only doing this to torment me?" I groaned.
"Torment? That was not my original plan, but it works just as well. Perhaps we should end this torment, hmmm? I know you wish to join me."
I glared at him, noting the look of supreme arrogance on his features. "In case you do not remember, I once told you that I would not stroke your ego!"
I paused. "Or anything else!"
"I can be very persuasive," he smiled, and I sighed as he pulled back his bed covers and climbed in, although he did not pull the covers back up. Instead, I watched with amusement and surprise as he pasted a forlorn expression on his face, though I knew it was an act, for his eyes twinkled merrily.
"How very big, lonely and cold this bed is," he murmured in a child-like whine. "Woe betide! I shall be very cold and restless tonight, yes indeed. And lonely. Very, very lonely." He cast me a pointed look, appearing to be a lost, innocent child – even though his eyes said otherwise.
I laughed. I had to! This seemed so very unlike the Haldir I had known thus far.
"You are a wicked, naughty Elf, March Warden!" I scolded, and gaped when he reclined back more, revealing himself more openly, giving me his most haughty smirk.
"Aye, but you love me. Come. Join me – before I throw you over my shoulder and put you here myself."
I laughed again. "So that I can stroke your ego?"
His only reply was a grin.
We awoke at the same time the next morning, groaning at the blinding light coming through the window. I had had little sleep, but was feeling well nonetheless.
Thankfully, Haldir did not snore. Although, he did snort one or two times in the night, though that was when I had stroked the juncture of his hip and had watched his growing reaction with amusement. I'd been quite stunned to discover that he was one and a half hand spans in length.
He'd snorted, coming to consciousness, and had said, "Evil, wicked bitch," before postponing sleep for a while longer.
After we had awoken and said good morning to each other in a not-so-obvious way (or maybe just a little bit obvious…), he had dressed, preparing to meet my Ada at the archery ranges, and I had helped him braid his hair, whilst he sat there perfectly still. His hair was amazing, its silver-gold strands silky and long. He seemed to enjoy having his hair groomed.
Once I had finished his hair, a knock at the door startled us both. It was a messenger from Elrond, requesting my presence. He had known where I was!
"He truly does have eyes everywhere," Haldir mused, raising an eyebrow. He had his quiver strapped to his back, his bow at hand.
Turning to me, he asked, "So you shall not be joining your father and I?"
"Nay," I replied. "I shall be with Lord Elrond. And besides, Ada did not want me there. He said it was private."
Haldir seemed to cringe. "He does not wish for you to see me flayed alive, then. How considerate."
I laughed. "Is the legendary March Warden afraid?"
"Not afraid," Haldir replied, sinking beside me on the bed to wrap his arms around me and bury his face in my hair. "I have known Elladan for some time, Tyrael. I know that in the very least, he shall attempt to make me very, very uncomfortable. I can only wonder at the mischief he shall…what on earth do you put in your hair? It smells rather nice…"
I chuckled. He was sniffing my hair! He was seriously scaring me – the only person who had ever sniffed my hair was Haryon, in a poor attempt to be flirtatious. "'Tis a concoction of egg yolks, essence of Elanor flower and other ingredients. Now go. You do not wish to keep him waiting."
Haldir stood, and kissed me on the forehead. "I shall see you later. Good luck, melamin."
"You too," I smiled, and it was only when he had left that I realised what he had called me.
*
As soon as I had entered Elrond's office and sat down, I said, "I know you have eyes everywhere, but is it possible to keep them at least a little under control?"
He looked surprised, before smiling. "Oh, yes. That was not my doing. The messenger originally went to your room, but you were not there. Prince Legolas redirected him to Haldir's quarters."
I flushed slightly.
"I brought you here to discuss recent matters," Elrond continued. "Such as the matter of you being my granddaughter."
I wanted to groan, and moan, and scream. How many relatives would I have to become acquainted with? How many were there? Instead, I said, "I believe that none knew about that aside from my own mother, the Lady Galadriel, Lord Celeborn and Orevon."
"Aye, and I am still slightly annoyed that none of them – well, not your mother, for she was in no position to do so – but that none of them ever thought to tell me! It makes me wonder how many more grandchildren shall pop out of the ground."
"You mean the kitchens," I corrected, and he flinched slightly. "I apologise my lord, that was – "
"You need not call me 'my lord'," Elrond sighed. "I hope that you should get used to calling me by my new title."
I paused, before saying, "Of course, grandfather."
He smiled. "Your remark about the kitchens brings me to my next point. Neither you nor Kalia shall remain in servitude. Since you are of my family, you shall live in my house as my family. Kalia shall be treated as an honoured guest."
"You mean…I shall no longer be required in the kitchens?" I asked. The thought was both pleasing and worrying. It was where I had spent 1,042 years of my life, having been handed to Swelter at the age of 946.
"You shall no longer be required in the kitchens," Elrond nodded. "I understand that these changes may be difficult, but rest assured. You will always have a home here."
If I do not go to Lórien with Haldir, I thought to myself, and wondered how he was fairing with my Ada.
"If I am to no longer return to the kitchens, may I make a request?" I asked.
"What is this request?" Grandfather asked, looking somewhat suspicious.
"I would ask that you replace your head chef," I replied. "He makes Elsorien a nymph of Elbereth!" I lowered my voice, shaking my head. "Pinching my Ada's bottom, indeed!"
Elrond burst out laughing, which surprised me. "Ah, yes! I remember that very well! I had not seen Elladan so disgusted since Elrohir vomited in his lap after too much ale!" The Lord laughed some more, whilst I just watched in astonishment. When he finally calmed down, he asked, "I wonder where he is anyhow."
"He is at the archery ranges," I replied immediately. "With Haldir."
"Ah. The talk between father and suitor. I never would have thought that Elladan would give such a talk, for he could only ever love Ava, and when she passed…and he not knowing she had bore him a child…" Elrond took a deep breath. "I did not know of their relationship until after she faded, and even then, it was Elrohir who told me – for I had been worried about Elladan's obvious depression. I am ashamed to say that I probably would have been shallow enough to consider social stature. But now…" He suddenly appeared much older. "I have had to live with my son's eternal pain, and I realise that it was that one rule that has caused it. That is why your presence gladdens me. I know he longed for a child with Ava…"
I swallowed, feeling a mixture of sadness for Ada and annoyance at how the rules had ruined the lives of him, my mother, and even me. "And when Haldir was supposedly courting a servant? And Legolas? What did you think then?"
Elrond rubbed his temples. "I had hoped that somehow the relationships would be allowed. You see, rules such as our stations are created by not one Elf of authority, but all of them, gathered together in council. And I did try to rectify this rule after Elladan's heart was broken, but Thranduil would not agree. When one of the Elves of the council does not agree, the act cannot be put forward."
So my grandfather had tried to atone for the damages. "I am pleased that you tried, my lord – grandfather. I understand how difficult it must have been." I shook my head. "I do not think that Thranduil understands the pain these 'improper' relationships contain. I realise that should I not be allowed to have Haldir at my side, I might well have faded…" I paused. "If I may ask, grandfather…why is it that Ada did not fade of a broken heart?"
"I truly do not know," Elrond admitted. "I pondered over this for some time, wondering why the Valar chose to have him remain here – his depression was deep, and in my heart, I know that under normal circumstances, he would be lost to us all."
"Perhaps it is his human blood?" I queried.
"I had considered that as well," he nodded. "But, you see – my sons are more Elvish than I am, with all the trimmings that go with an immortal life. They chose immortality, and so they live as Elves. I doubt it is Elladan's human blood, hinamin my child. I only know that I am ever grateful that he is still here."
I nodded, wondering at why Elladan was still in Middle Earth. Why had he remained, if his pain was so great?
I left Elrond's office not too long after, with the knowledge that the kitchens would have a new head chef, and that I was no longer a servant, no longer Legolas's handmaiden. I was Tyrael, daughter of Ava and Elladan, of the line of Elrond.
And one of the last of the Ithilien apparently. And now I was going to find Kalia, to ask what exactly that meant…
@@@***Now remember, if you want a cookie, click on the perty blue/grey button below…Lego or Haldir will deliver it butt nekkid. Hee hee.****@@@@