Disclaimer: For all you people out there who aren't exactly that bright, I
DO NOT OWN LORD OF THE RINGS NOR WILL I EVER OWN IT! These things can be so
tedious sometimes.. Oh yeah, and don't take the comment about not being
bright too seriously. I was only kidding! :D You're all geniuses out there!
Author's Note: This chapter was inspired by Oin Silverfury and her amazing fic: Of Elves and Aphrodisiacs. I'm not into graphics that much but if you are, go check out her fic.
We Are One
Misunderstood and Broken
The two set off towards Haldir's talan. They were both covered with blood, filth, and other foul things that they couldn't give a name to. Hithiel groaned as she found another tangle in her long raven hair. Haldir grinned teasingly at her and was rewarded with a jab in the rib. He knew that he himself wasn't any better off than her. He put a comforting arm around his love. "Come, there is a spring where you can wash yourself. It's not much farther down."
Hithiel grinned happily like a little Elfling and with renewed energy, continued the walk. As they neared the spring, Hithiel gave a squeal of joy and raced to the spring. She jumped in and started to remove all the filth and sweat from the battle. Haldir watched her longingly and sat by the edge of the spring. After a while, Hithiel became motionless and laid down by the edge of the spring. Haldir saw she had her eyes closed and a look of bliss upon her delicate face. "Hithiel," he called out gently. Her eyes fluttered open and looked at him sleepily. Haldir could not suppress a laugh. She grinned and shut her eyes again, worn out from the battle. Haldir pulled her up and escorted her to the talan. He couldn't help but notice the way her wet tunic clung to her skin.
Back at the talan, he gave her an extra set of clothes and left the room while she changed out of her wet outfit. He went back to the spring and cleaned himself. When he got back to the talan, Hithiel was sitting on the edge of the bed, dressing her wounds. The clothes he gave her were the traditional Guardian wear. Actually it was Haldir's but it fitted her well. It was pretty baggy and the leggings were loose but she looked beautiful in the pale gray-green outfit. He went over to her and examined her wound. He cautiously poked a deep gash on her forearm and she hissed in pain. "This is a deep wound," he said gently, "It will need to be binded to heal faster." She nodded silently. "Will you let me do it?" he asked. Again, she gave a nod.
Haldir quickly got some healing herbs and cloth and began binding her arm, careful not to cause any more pain. He finished quickly and looked up to see a happy but tired Elf. He got up and hugged her close, feeling the tension in her muscles flow out and relax. He softly stoked her silken hair and murmured things into her ear. Slowly her proud head began to droop. Her body was tired but her mind was alert. Her eyes were still alive but dulled by lack of sleep. Haldir became entranced by her piercing gaze. His heart filled with love for this beautiful creature that it felt like it would burst open in joy. She gently pulled him into the bed and kissed him full on the lips. It was sweet. So sweet that he was hungry for more. He greedily crushed his mouth against hers, tongue lashing out exploring and devouring her. He felt the heat from the closeness of their bodies. He put his hand around her waist and pulled her closer. Soon both were in desperate need of air. He rested his forehead against hers and both panted from lack of air. Her normal bright green eyes were now almost green-black with passion. He took her in his arms and cradled her head against his firm chest. Sleep soon claimed the young lovers and they fell asleep in each other's arms.
~*~*~Later that day~*~*~
Her eyelids fluttered open, parting the dark lashes, revealing bright moss green eyes that flashed with vibrant energy. She looked over and saw Haldir sleeping gently beside her, his arm still encircled her waist. She examined the Guardian before her, taking in each detail-the the steady rise of his chest, his silky golden hair, so blonde it was almost silver, the delicate curve of his lips. Her mind wandered back to what they had shared and smiled at the thought. She snuggled up to the Guardian's embrace. This slight movement caused Haldir to awake and smile down at her. She was still dressed in the loose Guardian wear that hid her slender figure. Haldir noticed a fine gold chain around her ivory neck and pulled it out from under the tunic. It was a small green amulet shaped like a leaf with the veins etched in gold. He ran his finger over the cool metal surface and felt magic pulse within. Hithiel saw what he was looking at. "It's my family heirloom," she explained. "It has been passed down for centuries now. My great-great grandfather wove strands of magic into to ensure the keeper's safety. It cannot turn aside an arrow or block a sword but it will keep dark magic from ever touching you. It's my most precious thing I own," she said softly. Haldir gently let go of the beautiful amulet and embraced her again. They wanted to stay like this longer but Haldir forgot something.
"OY, HALDIR!" Rumil's loud clear voice floated up to them from the ground.
Haldir poked his head out the talan window. "What?!" he asked annoyed at the interruption.
"The Lady wishes to see you now!"
"Ok! I'll be down in a minute!" he shouted back. But before he could pull his head back, Rumil shouted, "Oh, and have you seen Hithiel? Ambaril's searching for her with fire in his eyes. The way he walks makes you think a heard of cows are coming through!"
For 'some' reason, Haldir froze and glanced nervously back inside his talan and Rumil's eyes widened in realization. "You-"
"Shut up!" Haldir hissed though clenched teeth. Rumil nodded and immediately shut up. Haldir disappeared from the talan window and looked back at Hithiel who jerked up at the sound of Rumil's voice.
"Is it Ambaril?" she asked nervously.
"No, it's only my brother," replied Haldir soothingly.
"Oh no," she whispered. "What? What wrong?" Haldir asked confused.
"Your brother was injured yesterday during a battle," she said. "He was hit by an arrow and I dragged him out of the battle but I don't know what happened to him. He said his name was-" She racked her mind for the name but couldn't remember it.
"Orophin?" asked Haldir.
"Yes! That's it! He was wounded by an arrow but I don't think it was too serious."
Worry clouded Haldir's clear blue-gray eyes but he quickly banished it. He knew his brother was strong and wouldn't die over a simple arrow, right? "Where are you going?" Hithiel's clear strong voice jerked him out of his thoughts. Haldir didn't notice that he was walking out of talan. "My Lords want to see me. Probably a battle report or something. Could you check on my brother? He should be at the Healers right now if he was wounded." Hithiel nodded and immediately got out of bed. Haldir smiled and with a small wave, leapt out of the talan towards Caras Galadhon's central.
Haldir bounded from tree to tree, his feet touched each branch for a split second before reaching out for another. He reached the central where his Lords lived. He walked in confidently and bowed before his Lords. "Good afternoon, Milord," he said in a stiff dignified voice.
He looked up and stared straight ahead at his Lords. Elrond and Thrandullion with his sons stood on either side of them. Ambaril had a mysterious bruise on his face that no one knew how he got it. Whenever someone asked he just glared and muttered something about a branch and a tree. He just glared as Haldir entered the room. Legolas, Elrohir, and Elladen were standing there, their Elven youth shining like a beacon of light. Haldir felt a guilty squirm in his stomach when he remembered what he did to Ambaril but the thought vanished almost instantly when he thought about what he almost did to Hithiel.
"Haldir, tell me the outcome of the battle," commanded Celeborn without preamble. Haldir sighed inwardly, after all these years, the old lord still wouldn't loosen up. He resisted the urge to roll his eyes at him.
"We've taken down all the Black Elves of Mordor but the price was heavy. We've lost a few but most are injured. They should be back to there posts within a few days," Haldir said dully.
"Are you sure there are no more Black Ones left within our borders?"
"Yes, quite sure. A few tried to get away but our archers got them."
"And I heard that one of our guests were fighting alongside. Is that true?" Celeborn's light silver eyes bored into Haldir's own blue-gray ones.
Haldir swallowed and glanced nervously at Ambaril. "Yes, Hithiel, warrior of Imladris was fighting alongside the Galadrim. She is a skilled warrior and deserves the honor to fight as one of us."
Ambaril jerked at Hithiel's name. Celeborn was indifferent while the White Lady's eyes grew slightly wider. She looked at Haldir and stared deep within his eyes as if searching for his soul. "Very well. You may return to your post now, Haldir," said Celeborn.
"Thank you Milord," replied Haldir bowing as he left. He felt eyes boring into his back and he was very sure those eyes belonged to a certain Mirkwood Prince.
"Well? How did it go?" asked Rumil. He was waiting outside the room.
"Boring. As always," replied Haldir. "Are you not suppose to be at your post right now?"
Rumil grinned mischievously. "Someone's covering for me."
"Sure, sure fine, whatever," grumbled Haldir. Right now he didn't really care if Rumil was not in his post. He just wanted to get back to his talan and check up on Hithiel. The entire meeting with his Lords was only thirty minutes but it seemed like eternity without Hithiel. Suddenly, a dark shape pounced on Haldir, tripping him, but not enough to make him fall. He spun around and got ready to fight but instead found the Elf he was thinking about grinning her head off. "Surprised to see me?" she asked innocently.
"I thought you were with Orophin," said Haldir with a grin. It was impossible not to be happy when she was near.
"I was before the Healers kicked me out," she replied. "Those healers are so picky! They complain about me spreading germs."
"I wonder why," joked Haldir with a smirk. That earned him a swift kick and she made a face at him before darting up a tree. Poor Rumil was forgotten in their bicker until Hithiel finally noticed him. She glanced at him and back at Haldir. The resemblance was uncanny.
She kept on staring until Rumil laughed. His clear voice echoed through the silent forest. Hithiel grinned and snuggled up to Haldir. He put an arm protectively over her. Rumil saw this and burst out in a new fit of laughter. "Oro- Orophin was right!" he gasped in between peels of laughter. "You -" he began but was shut up with a quick glare from Haldir. He looked puzzled for a moment and went scampering through the forest still chuckling.
"What?" Hithiel asked lost at what just happened.
"It's nothing, mellon nin," he whispered. He held her for a few more seconds until he looked up and saw the sun. He groaned and pulled away. "Sorry Hithiel, I must go. My watch has already started."
Hithiel looked at him and then smiled. "I understand. Go, do your duty. I must catch up with my own family."
~*~*~With Ambaril~*~*~
Ambaril's hand strayed to the pocket of his tunic and felt the cool crystal bottle. He grinned mentally when he thought of what he was going to do with it. Hithiel will soon be his again. Forever. The bottle was filled with liquid aphrodisiacs. One little sip will send her running to his side, begging to be claimed. He knew that Hithiel was good at resisting most potions and that stupid amulet kept her from being controlled by the aphrodisiacs for a long time. But it won't matter. As long as she believes Haldir doesn't want her any more, everything will work out. It did last time. He knew that she wouldn't be willing so there will probably be a little tussle. Nothing serious. Just a few quick slaps to show her who's in control. Anyway, the potion will weaken her, making her more willing to submit and take. He planned to rid that annoying Guardian later.. after he is crushed with betrayal. Elves could die of broken hearts so that was something to keep in mind while scheming. So if he planned it very carefully, Haldir just 'might' accidentally walk in on them.
Ambaril's head snapped up and broke his train of thought when the Lord dismissed Haldir. He turned to his father. "May I have my leave?" he asked. With a nod of thanks, he walked swiftly after the Guardian. He caught sight of Haldir's pale golden hair after awhile and decided to stay hidden. He watched and felt a wave of jealousy flare within him as he watched Hithiel playfully tackle him. He had to admit that they were beautiful together but he would not let him have Hithiel. He waited till they parted ways and went after Haldir.
~*~*~With Haldir~*~*~
His heart felt so light when he went about his guard duties. Hithiel has brought joy into his life like he never felt ever since his parents died. He heard light footsteps behind him and turned around, expecting to face a fellow Guardian. Instead he looked upon the noble face of Ambaril-with a bruise. He stiffened visibly remembering their last encounter. Ambaril however was loose and casual. He held up his hands in a friendly greeting. "I see you've managed to capture her heart," he said without emotion. He didn't need to state who 'her' was. They both knew only too well. Haldir nodded and stared down his nose at him. He tried to look into Ambaril's eyes to see what his real intention for bring Hithiel up was but was unable. He kept his eyes blank and betrayed nothing. In the same expressionless tone, he continued, "I just want you to know that she is mine and will always be. You may think that she likes you but you're wrong. She will always choose me over you in the end. Don't forget, I'm a Prince and can offer her more than you ever can or will."
Those words were spat at Haldir's face. Haldir felt a wave of anger wash over him, his joyful feeling evaporated leaving him furious. Who does he think he is? He forced himself not to reach out and wreck that smirking face in front of him. He settled on glaring at the younger Prince. "How would you know? A far as I see, we are inseparable."
"Well, you obviously don't see much do you?" the Prince purred. "I seem to recall that she enjoyed my company and we were friends since childhood. Do you think you can break that bond?"
"People can change," Haldir said refusing to believe anything that he told him but a seed of doubt was already planted deep into his heart by Ambaril's words.
"Yes," he hissed. "People can change. Elves do not. Do not be too broken hearted when she leaves you-for me." He said the end triumphantly and that enraged Haldir even more.
"What do you know?!" he yelled causing several Guardians to stare with raised eyebrows. "You know nothing! You know nothing about her! Never go near her again!"
"Hmmm, but what if she comes to me?" he purred even more slyly.
Haldir breathed heavily. 'What if she goes to him? What if she's just toying with me? What if she really does choose him over me?' Impossible! They shared a bond ever since they locked eyes on each other on the first day. But a sly voice in his head countered, 'But she have known Ambaril since childhood.' "That's different," he finally forced out.
As if satisfied with his reply, Ambaril turned on his heels and left the forest as sudden as he had come, leaving a very agitated Haldir pondering about what he had said. For the rest of the duty, chaotic thoughts whirled around in Haldir's head. 'What if..' He had to find out! He couldn't stand it if she left him. He realized at that moment how much he cared for her. That he was willing to face death for her. 'But what if she doesn't return your feelings?' said the sly voice inside. Forcing the thought out of his head, he proceeded to find Hithiel.
~*~*~With Ambaril~*~*~
Ambaril walked away from Haldir, satisfied with the answer. 'That's different.' Those were his precise words. Yes, it was different. He was going to make Hithiel come to him. Make her beg for him. Yes, it will be sweet. His hand strayed once again to the crystal that held the aphrodisiacs. He followed the trail that he saw Hithiel take earlier when she and Haldir parted. He followed it to where the Imladris party was camping out. He immediately spotted her dark hair among the many light golden hairs. He smirked and made his way towards her, keeping out of sight. She was talking with Elladen and Elrohir, the twins. They were all laughing and joking around. Elrohir clapped her on the back. It was a friendly gesture and meant nothing but jealousy flared within Ambaril again.
He hid in the bushes and carefully poured some of the silvery substance into a piece of cloth, careful not to spill any of this precious liquid. He slid the bottle back into his pocket and slipped the prepared cloth up his sleeve. He climbed silently up a tree and settled in a high perch where the branches hid him from sight but he could see everything below. He took a rock and threw it a few yards away, making a rustle. He quickly hid himself back within the tree when the tree came to see what caused the sound. Elladen and Elrohir were poking around in the bushes while Hithiel looked suspiciously up at the tree right where Ambaril was if the branches were not covering him from view. Ambaril smirked down at the confused Elves and debated whether or not to have a little fun with them. He couldn't resist so he dropped a nut on one of the twin's head. Elrohir was digging through a bush when that happened so he thought his twin threw it. Annoyed, he picked it up and threw it at Elladen. "What was that for?" cried Elladen rubbing a red mark on his forehead.
"You threw it at me first!"
"No, I didn't!"
"Yes, you did!"
"No!"
"Yes!"
"NO!"
"YES!!"
They were so busy fighting that they didn't notice Hithiel slip off laughing at them. Ambaril followed Hithiel up above until they were out of earshot of the Imladris party. He silently jumped down and Hithiel turned around startled. She would've drawn her knives but Lorien was a protected city so she wasn't afraid of an orc attack. She turned and found Ambaril. Her eyes grew wide and she turned to run. Ambaril was quicker. He grabbed her long hair and pulled her back into his waiting arms. With a cry of pain, she fell on his firm, sending him falling to the ground. Hithiel struggled against his strong grip but it was no use. She was trained for hand-to-hand combat and a little grappling but now she was prisoner. She was pinned against Ambaril and the only way to get up was to roll but Ambaril had her arms in his steel-like grip. She desperately flailed her legs and by chance, connected with his groin. Ambaril hissed in pain, his eyes burning with lust and anger at the same time. Hithiel took advantage of this moment and bounded off. Ambaril didn't give up so easily. Despite his pain, he got up and ran after her, determined not to let her get away so easily.
Hithiel soon heard light footsteps behind and looked back with horror. Ambaril was gaining on her! She was fast but Ambaril was just a bit faster and stronger. She darted into the forest, hiding among the leaves, panting for breath.
Ambaril saw her go off the path and into the forest. He grinned. This was going to be easier than expected. He went into the forest at a leisure pace. She forgot that the forest was his home and he could communicate with trees. He listened hard and finally found the ancient voice of the trees. It told him where she was hiding. He went to the place and made a show of searching for her. Then as quick as a flash, he grabbed her from her hiding place and pulled her out. Her wide green eyes darted around fearfully. Ambaril grinned and took out the cloth he had prepared earlier. She sniffed it and realized with horror that it was the smell of aphrodisiacs. "No, please, no! Not again, please!" she begged but it was no use.
Ambaril pressed it to her face. She struggled not to breathe in the sweet tempting scent of aphrodisiacs but it didn't work. Her natural instincts won over her good sense and she felt herself crumble under the power of it. The drug entered her veins and flowed though her. Her face became flushed and her eyes sparkled. Heat pooled down and she grabbed Ambaril and roughly kissed him. Ambaril smirked against her lips, satisfied with the results. Now all he had to do was wait till Haldir finds them together.
~*~*~With Haldir~*~*~
He walked to the Imladris camp, hoping to find Hithiel but instead found her twin friends. They were now wrestling around the ground still fighting pointlessly over who threw the nut. "What's going on here?" he said. His clear ringing tone echoed in the silence that followed.
"We-uh-"
"Umm-we were just-practicing our grappling skills."
Haldir glared down at their poor excuses. "Where did Hithiel go?"
The twins pointed him down the path where Ambaril and Hithiel went. He thought he heard something in the forest and went in to see what it was about. What he saw nearly made his heart stop. There was Hithiel but she was kissing-Ambaril?!?!?!? His brain froze, unwilling to believe the scene that was playing out in front of him. His mind reeled, not able to register what was happening. He couldn't even string two thoughts together. Hithiel and Ambaril. It was impossible! It couldn't be! His heart felt as if someone had stomped it flat. Only this morning they were together but now, she chose Ambaril. The emotions whirled through him..hurt..betrayal..loss..hate. Ambaril was right! She never loved him. She only played with him like a cat and mouse before going in for the kill. Haldir never knew pain this intense before. It was overwhelming. Never had he felt this. Not even when his beloved parents were tortured before his very eyes. He stumbled out of the clearing where he saw this and walked slowly towards his talan. His life no longer felt worth living for. The scene he oversaw kept replaying in his mind. He wanted to shut it out. But he couldn't. He was foolish for loving her. Of course she'll rather live a life of luxury than be with him. It was so clear but he didn't see it before. Ambaril was right. He was always right. That was his last thought before his mind went blank. It just froze as he stumbled like a drunken man towards his talan.
Author's Note: All you peoples should know by now what I'm gonna say. REVIEW REVIEW REVIEW!!!!!!!!! Lots and lots of reviews PLEASE!!!!! If I don't get a lot of reviews for this chapter, I'm gonna be mad. Hey, nine pages is a lot of work! You try it sometimes! Now go down and press the lil' purple button.
Author's Note: This chapter was inspired by Oin Silverfury and her amazing fic: Of Elves and Aphrodisiacs. I'm not into graphics that much but if you are, go check out her fic.
We Are One
Misunderstood and Broken
The two set off towards Haldir's talan. They were both covered with blood, filth, and other foul things that they couldn't give a name to. Hithiel groaned as she found another tangle in her long raven hair. Haldir grinned teasingly at her and was rewarded with a jab in the rib. He knew that he himself wasn't any better off than her. He put a comforting arm around his love. "Come, there is a spring where you can wash yourself. It's not much farther down."
Hithiel grinned happily like a little Elfling and with renewed energy, continued the walk. As they neared the spring, Hithiel gave a squeal of joy and raced to the spring. She jumped in and started to remove all the filth and sweat from the battle. Haldir watched her longingly and sat by the edge of the spring. After a while, Hithiel became motionless and laid down by the edge of the spring. Haldir saw she had her eyes closed and a look of bliss upon her delicate face. "Hithiel," he called out gently. Her eyes fluttered open and looked at him sleepily. Haldir could not suppress a laugh. She grinned and shut her eyes again, worn out from the battle. Haldir pulled her up and escorted her to the talan. He couldn't help but notice the way her wet tunic clung to her skin.
Back at the talan, he gave her an extra set of clothes and left the room while she changed out of her wet outfit. He went back to the spring and cleaned himself. When he got back to the talan, Hithiel was sitting on the edge of the bed, dressing her wounds. The clothes he gave her were the traditional Guardian wear. Actually it was Haldir's but it fitted her well. It was pretty baggy and the leggings were loose but she looked beautiful in the pale gray-green outfit. He went over to her and examined her wound. He cautiously poked a deep gash on her forearm and she hissed in pain. "This is a deep wound," he said gently, "It will need to be binded to heal faster." She nodded silently. "Will you let me do it?" he asked. Again, she gave a nod.
Haldir quickly got some healing herbs and cloth and began binding her arm, careful not to cause any more pain. He finished quickly and looked up to see a happy but tired Elf. He got up and hugged her close, feeling the tension in her muscles flow out and relax. He softly stoked her silken hair and murmured things into her ear. Slowly her proud head began to droop. Her body was tired but her mind was alert. Her eyes were still alive but dulled by lack of sleep. Haldir became entranced by her piercing gaze. His heart filled with love for this beautiful creature that it felt like it would burst open in joy. She gently pulled him into the bed and kissed him full on the lips. It was sweet. So sweet that he was hungry for more. He greedily crushed his mouth against hers, tongue lashing out exploring and devouring her. He felt the heat from the closeness of their bodies. He put his hand around her waist and pulled her closer. Soon both were in desperate need of air. He rested his forehead against hers and both panted from lack of air. Her normal bright green eyes were now almost green-black with passion. He took her in his arms and cradled her head against his firm chest. Sleep soon claimed the young lovers and they fell asleep in each other's arms.
~*~*~Later that day~*~*~
Her eyelids fluttered open, parting the dark lashes, revealing bright moss green eyes that flashed with vibrant energy. She looked over and saw Haldir sleeping gently beside her, his arm still encircled her waist. She examined the Guardian before her, taking in each detail-the the steady rise of his chest, his silky golden hair, so blonde it was almost silver, the delicate curve of his lips. Her mind wandered back to what they had shared and smiled at the thought. She snuggled up to the Guardian's embrace. This slight movement caused Haldir to awake and smile down at her. She was still dressed in the loose Guardian wear that hid her slender figure. Haldir noticed a fine gold chain around her ivory neck and pulled it out from under the tunic. It was a small green amulet shaped like a leaf with the veins etched in gold. He ran his finger over the cool metal surface and felt magic pulse within. Hithiel saw what he was looking at. "It's my family heirloom," she explained. "It has been passed down for centuries now. My great-great grandfather wove strands of magic into to ensure the keeper's safety. It cannot turn aside an arrow or block a sword but it will keep dark magic from ever touching you. It's my most precious thing I own," she said softly. Haldir gently let go of the beautiful amulet and embraced her again. They wanted to stay like this longer but Haldir forgot something.
"OY, HALDIR!" Rumil's loud clear voice floated up to them from the ground.
Haldir poked his head out the talan window. "What?!" he asked annoyed at the interruption.
"The Lady wishes to see you now!"
"Ok! I'll be down in a minute!" he shouted back. But before he could pull his head back, Rumil shouted, "Oh, and have you seen Hithiel? Ambaril's searching for her with fire in his eyes. The way he walks makes you think a heard of cows are coming through!"
For 'some' reason, Haldir froze and glanced nervously back inside his talan and Rumil's eyes widened in realization. "You-"
"Shut up!" Haldir hissed though clenched teeth. Rumil nodded and immediately shut up. Haldir disappeared from the talan window and looked back at Hithiel who jerked up at the sound of Rumil's voice.
"Is it Ambaril?" she asked nervously.
"No, it's only my brother," replied Haldir soothingly.
"Oh no," she whispered. "What? What wrong?" Haldir asked confused.
"Your brother was injured yesterday during a battle," she said. "He was hit by an arrow and I dragged him out of the battle but I don't know what happened to him. He said his name was-" She racked her mind for the name but couldn't remember it.
"Orophin?" asked Haldir.
"Yes! That's it! He was wounded by an arrow but I don't think it was too serious."
Worry clouded Haldir's clear blue-gray eyes but he quickly banished it. He knew his brother was strong and wouldn't die over a simple arrow, right? "Where are you going?" Hithiel's clear strong voice jerked him out of his thoughts. Haldir didn't notice that he was walking out of talan. "My Lords want to see me. Probably a battle report or something. Could you check on my brother? He should be at the Healers right now if he was wounded." Hithiel nodded and immediately got out of bed. Haldir smiled and with a small wave, leapt out of the talan towards Caras Galadhon's central.
Haldir bounded from tree to tree, his feet touched each branch for a split second before reaching out for another. He reached the central where his Lords lived. He walked in confidently and bowed before his Lords. "Good afternoon, Milord," he said in a stiff dignified voice.
He looked up and stared straight ahead at his Lords. Elrond and Thrandullion with his sons stood on either side of them. Ambaril had a mysterious bruise on his face that no one knew how he got it. Whenever someone asked he just glared and muttered something about a branch and a tree. He just glared as Haldir entered the room. Legolas, Elrohir, and Elladen were standing there, their Elven youth shining like a beacon of light. Haldir felt a guilty squirm in his stomach when he remembered what he did to Ambaril but the thought vanished almost instantly when he thought about what he almost did to Hithiel.
"Haldir, tell me the outcome of the battle," commanded Celeborn without preamble. Haldir sighed inwardly, after all these years, the old lord still wouldn't loosen up. He resisted the urge to roll his eyes at him.
"We've taken down all the Black Elves of Mordor but the price was heavy. We've lost a few but most are injured. They should be back to there posts within a few days," Haldir said dully.
"Are you sure there are no more Black Ones left within our borders?"
"Yes, quite sure. A few tried to get away but our archers got them."
"And I heard that one of our guests were fighting alongside. Is that true?" Celeborn's light silver eyes bored into Haldir's own blue-gray ones.
Haldir swallowed and glanced nervously at Ambaril. "Yes, Hithiel, warrior of Imladris was fighting alongside the Galadrim. She is a skilled warrior and deserves the honor to fight as one of us."
Ambaril jerked at Hithiel's name. Celeborn was indifferent while the White Lady's eyes grew slightly wider. She looked at Haldir and stared deep within his eyes as if searching for his soul. "Very well. You may return to your post now, Haldir," said Celeborn.
"Thank you Milord," replied Haldir bowing as he left. He felt eyes boring into his back and he was very sure those eyes belonged to a certain Mirkwood Prince.
"Well? How did it go?" asked Rumil. He was waiting outside the room.
"Boring. As always," replied Haldir. "Are you not suppose to be at your post right now?"
Rumil grinned mischievously. "Someone's covering for me."
"Sure, sure fine, whatever," grumbled Haldir. Right now he didn't really care if Rumil was not in his post. He just wanted to get back to his talan and check up on Hithiel. The entire meeting with his Lords was only thirty minutes but it seemed like eternity without Hithiel. Suddenly, a dark shape pounced on Haldir, tripping him, but not enough to make him fall. He spun around and got ready to fight but instead found the Elf he was thinking about grinning her head off. "Surprised to see me?" she asked innocently.
"I thought you were with Orophin," said Haldir with a grin. It was impossible not to be happy when she was near.
"I was before the Healers kicked me out," she replied. "Those healers are so picky! They complain about me spreading germs."
"I wonder why," joked Haldir with a smirk. That earned him a swift kick and she made a face at him before darting up a tree. Poor Rumil was forgotten in their bicker until Hithiel finally noticed him. She glanced at him and back at Haldir. The resemblance was uncanny.
She kept on staring until Rumil laughed. His clear voice echoed through the silent forest. Hithiel grinned and snuggled up to Haldir. He put an arm protectively over her. Rumil saw this and burst out in a new fit of laughter. "Oro- Orophin was right!" he gasped in between peels of laughter. "You -" he began but was shut up with a quick glare from Haldir. He looked puzzled for a moment and went scampering through the forest still chuckling.
"What?" Hithiel asked lost at what just happened.
"It's nothing, mellon nin," he whispered. He held her for a few more seconds until he looked up and saw the sun. He groaned and pulled away. "Sorry Hithiel, I must go. My watch has already started."
Hithiel looked at him and then smiled. "I understand. Go, do your duty. I must catch up with my own family."
~*~*~With Ambaril~*~*~
Ambaril's hand strayed to the pocket of his tunic and felt the cool crystal bottle. He grinned mentally when he thought of what he was going to do with it. Hithiel will soon be his again. Forever. The bottle was filled with liquid aphrodisiacs. One little sip will send her running to his side, begging to be claimed. He knew that Hithiel was good at resisting most potions and that stupid amulet kept her from being controlled by the aphrodisiacs for a long time. But it won't matter. As long as she believes Haldir doesn't want her any more, everything will work out. It did last time. He knew that she wouldn't be willing so there will probably be a little tussle. Nothing serious. Just a few quick slaps to show her who's in control. Anyway, the potion will weaken her, making her more willing to submit and take. He planned to rid that annoying Guardian later.. after he is crushed with betrayal. Elves could die of broken hearts so that was something to keep in mind while scheming. So if he planned it very carefully, Haldir just 'might' accidentally walk in on them.
Ambaril's head snapped up and broke his train of thought when the Lord dismissed Haldir. He turned to his father. "May I have my leave?" he asked. With a nod of thanks, he walked swiftly after the Guardian. He caught sight of Haldir's pale golden hair after awhile and decided to stay hidden. He watched and felt a wave of jealousy flare within him as he watched Hithiel playfully tackle him. He had to admit that they were beautiful together but he would not let him have Hithiel. He waited till they parted ways and went after Haldir.
~*~*~With Haldir~*~*~
His heart felt so light when he went about his guard duties. Hithiel has brought joy into his life like he never felt ever since his parents died. He heard light footsteps behind him and turned around, expecting to face a fellow Guardian. Instead he looked upon the noble face of Ambaril-with a bruise. He stiffened visibly remembering their last encounter. Ambaril however was loose and casual. He held up his hands in a friendly greeting. "I see you've managed to capture her heart," he said without emotion. He didn't need to state who 'her' was. They both knew only too well. Haldir nodded and stared down his nose at him. He tried to look into Ambaril's eyes to see what his real intention for bring Hithiel up was but was unable. He kept his eyes blank and betrayed nothing. In the same expressionless tone, he continued, "I just want you to know that she is mine and will always be. You may think that she likes you but you're wrong. She will always choose me over you in the end. Don't forget, I'm a Prince and can offer her more than you ever can or will."
Those words were spat at Haldir's face. Haldir felt a wave of anger wash over him, his joyful feeling evaporated leaving him furious. Who does he think he is? He forced himself not to reach out and wreck that smirking face in front of him. He settled on glaring at the younger Prince. "How would you know? A far as I see, we are inseparable."
"Well, you obviously don't see much do you?" the Prince purred. "I seem to recall that she enjoyed my company and we were friends since childhood. Do you think you can break that bond?"
"People can change," Haldir said refusing to believe anything that he told him but a seed of doubt was already planted deep into his heart by Ambaril's words.
"Yes," he hissed. "People can change. Elves do not. Do not be too broken hearted when she leaves you-for me." He said the end triumphantly and that enraged Haldir even more.
"What do you know?!" he yelled causing several Guardians to stare with raised eyebrows. "You know nothing! You know nothing about her! Never go near her again!"
"Hmmm, but what if she comes to me?" he purred even more slyly.
Haldir breathed heavily. 'What if she goes to him? What if she's just toying with me? What if she really does choose him over me?' Impossible! They shared a bond ever since they locked eyes on each other on the first day. But a sly voice in his head countered, 'But she have known Ambaril since childhood.' "That's different," he finally forced out.
As if satisfied with his reply, Ambaril turned on his heels and left the forest as sudden as he had come, leaving a very agitated Haldir pondering about what he had said. For the rest of the duty, chaotic thoughts whirled around in Haldir's head. 'What if..' He had to find out! He couldn't stand it if she left him. He realized at that moment how much he cared for her. That he was willing to face death for her. 'But what if she doesn't return your feelings?' said the sly voice inside. Forcing the thought out of his head, he proceeded to find Hithiel.
~*~*~With Ambaril~*~*~
Ambaril walked away from Haldir, satisfied with the answer. 'That's different.' Those were his precise words. Yes, it was different. He was going to make Hithiel come to him. Make her beg for him. Yes, it will be sweet. His hand strayed once again to the crystal that held the aphrodisiacs. He followed the trail that he saw Hithiel take earlier when she and Haldir parted. He followed it to where the Imladris party was camping out. He immediately spotted her dark hair among the many light golden hairs. He smirked and made his way towards her, keeping out of sight. She was talking with Elladen and Elrohir, the twins. They were all laughing and joking around. Elrohir clapped her on the back. It was a friendly gesture and meant nothing but jealousy flared within Ambaril again.
He hid in the bushes and carefully poured some of the silvery substance into a piece of cloth, careful not to spill any of this precious liquid. He slid the bottle back into his pocket and slipped the prepared cloth up his sleeve. He climbed silently up a tree and settled in a high perch where the branches hid him from sight but he could see everything below. He took a rock and threw it a few yards away, making a rustle. He quickly hid himself back within the tree when the tree came to see what caused the sound. Elladen and Elrohir were poking around in the bushes while Hithiel looked suspiciously up at the tree right where Ambaril was if the branches were not covering him from view. Ambaril smirked down at the confused Elves and debated whether or not to have a little fun with them. He couldn't resist so he dropped a nut on one of the twin's head. Elrohir was digging through a bush when that happened so he thought his twin threw it. Annoyed, he picked it up and threw it at Elladen. "What was that for?" cried Elladen rubbing a red mark on his forehead.
"You threw it at me first!"
"No, I didn't!"
"Yes, you did!"
"No!"
"Yes!"
"NO!"
"YES!!"
They were so busy fighting that they didn't notice Hithiel slip off laughing at them. Ambaril followed Hithiel up above until they were out of earshot of the Imladris party. He silently jumped down and Hithiel turned around startled. She would've drawn her knives but Lorien was a protected city so she wasn't afraid of an orc attack. She turned and found Ambaril. Her eyes grew wide and she turned to run. Ambaril was quicker. He grabbed her long hair and pulled her back into his waiting arms. With a cry of pain, she fell on his firm, sending him falling to the ground. Hithiel struggled against his strong grip but it was no use. She was trained for hand-to-hand combat and a little grappling but now she was prisoner. She was pinned against Ambaril and the only way to get up was to roll but Ambaril had her arms in his steel-like grip. She desperately flailed her legs and by chance, connected with his groin. Ambaril hissed in pain, his eyes burning with lust and anger at the same time. Hithiel took advantage of this moment and bounded off. Ambaril didn't give up so easily. Despite his pain, he got up and ran after her, determined not to let her get away so easily.
Hithiel soon heard light footsteps behind and looked back with horror. Ambaril was gaining on her! She was fast but Ambaril was just a bit faster and stronger. She darted into the forest, hiding among the leaves, panting for breath.
Ambaril saw her go off the path and into the forest. He grinned. This was going to be easier than expected. He went into the forest at a leisure pace. She forgot that the forest was his home and he could communicate with trees. He listened hard and finally found the ancient voice of the trees. It told him where she was hiding. He went to the place and made a show of searching for her. Then as quick as a flash, he grabbed her from her hiding place and pulled her out. Her wide green eyes darted around fearfully. Ambaril grinned and took out the cloth he had prepared earlier. She sniffed it and realized with horror that it was the smell of aphrodisiacs. "No, please, no! Not again, please!" she begged but it was no use.
Ambaril pressed it to her face. She struggled not to breathe in the sweet tempting scent of aphrodisiacs but it didn't work. Her natural instincts won over her good sense and she felt herself crumble under the power of it. The drug entered her veins and flowed though her. Her face became flushed and her eyes sparkled. Heat pooled down and she grabbed Ambaril and roughly kissed him. Ambaril smirked against her lips, satisfied with the results. Now all he had to do was wait till Haldir finds them together.
~*~*~With Haldir~*~*~
He walked to the Imladris camp, hoping to find Hithiel but instead found her twin friends. They were now wrestling around the ground still fighting pointlessly over who threw the nut. "What's going on here?" he said. His clear ringing tone echoed in the silence that followed.
"We-uh-"
"Umm-we were just-practicing our grappling skills."
Haldir glared down at their poor excuses. "Where did Hithiel go?"
The twins pointed him down the path where Ambaril and Hithiel went. He thought he heard something in the forest and went in to see what it was about. What he saw nearly made his heart stop. There was Hithiel but she was kissing-Ambaril?!?!?!? His brain froze, unwilling to believe the scene that was playing out in front of him. His mind reeled, not able to register what was happening. He couldn't even string two thoughts together. Hithiel and Ambaril. It was impossible! It couldn't be! His heart felt as if someone had stomped it flat. Only this morning they were together but now, she chose Ambaril. The emotions whirled through him..hurt..betrayal..loss..hate. Ambaril was right! She never loved him. She only played with him like a cat and mouse before going in for the kill. Haldir never knew pain this intense before. It was overwhelming. Never had he felt this. Not even when his beloved parents were tortured before his very eyes. He stumbled out of the clearing where he saw this and walked slowly towards his talan. His life no longer felt worth living for. The scene he oversaw kept replaying in his mind. He wanted to shut it out. But he couldn't. He was foolish for loving her. Of course she'll rather live a life of luxury than be with him. It was so clear but he didn't see it before. Ambaril was right. He was always right. That was his last thought before his mind went blank. It just froze as he stumbled like a drunken man towards his talan.
Author's Note: All you peoples should know by now what I'm gonna say. REVIEW REVIEW REVIEW!!!!!!!!! Lots and lots of reviews PLEASE!!!!! If I don't get a lot of reviews for this chapter, I'm gonna be mad. Hey, nine pages is a lot of work! You try it sometimes! Now go down and press the lil' purple button.