...:: Sacred ::...
Buffy picked at the food that Haldir had placed in front of her barely
ten minutes ago. Her mind was racing from one thing to the next and
everytime it looped and brought her back to Legolas and Haldir. One
thing was terribly troubling to Buffy and that was the sole
realization on why it would never work between Legolas and herself:
Haldir. It was true, and at the basis of that truth was another, less
important realization: It seemed to her that she appeared to be
confused in whom she loved and that was the impression that she knew
both Haldir and Legolas held within themselves. Even though a week
ago, the night Legolas confessed his love for her, she knew that deep
within his mind were doubts, she could see them. He was uncertain if
her love for him was as honest as his was for her. He had good right
to doubt, too, because Buffy did not feel the love for him that she
thought she held before meeting him and this was also another concern
that was troubling her. Haldir was whom she truly wanted, and she had
had a week to contemplate this, for the patrol wasn't to leave for
patrol until next week and everyone was off on their own accord. All
but Haldir. He had remained near to her, even though they'd hardly
spoken a word since the Fellowship's departure from Lorien. She and
Haldir still shared his talan and his bed and this was the only
comfort to Buffy at this time. Besides her own selfish desires, there
was indeed the matter of the rest of Middle-Earth which troubled Buffy
as well.
Haldir watched Buffy, across from him. He could see the look of deep
concentration within her expression and he wondered to what lengths
she missed Legolas, ever since he had departed with the rest of the
Fellowship, she had detached herself from all form of communication
with anyone but him and even when she remotely made an attempt to say
anything to him, it was of his own speaking first and she complied
willingly. But this was different, every time he mentioned Legolas,
she did nothing to even express an interest let alone any sign of
missing him. It didn't seem to him that she even loved him the way she
had expressed before he had shown up. This was very perplexing. Every
time her eyes met with his, Haldir noticed, a pained look would return
his warm one and this pained him, too. Something was bothering his
love and he wished he knew how to open her up to him, the way she had
been before. "Are you going to even attempt eating what I have
prepared for you or are you planning on playing with it for all
eternity?"
Buffy's thoughts had been redirected to the Elf that sat before her,
staring at her curiously and with warm humor. She smiled up at him,
playfully. "Indeed, tis tempting to sit for an eternity and barter
with the food, but even as it is tempting, tis also very alarming a-
thought." She pushed her plate aside and played with her fingers,
entertwining them and then untwining them. It seemed to fascinate her
every time and she continued to do it, making no further attempt at
conversation. If she continued, she might not be able to conceal how
she felt about the situations at hand from Haldir. Somehow, he had
always been excellent with drawing her every emotion from her and it
caused her to hold herself out on a limb every time. "So it is certain
that you plan to starve, then?" Haldir's eyes remained on her, burning
into her soul, imploring her. She couldn't help but look at him, his
eyes compelled her to, his soul called for hers.
"I'm not hungry." Haldir nodded at the plainted statement. "You are
being terribly difficuly, melamin. What troubles you?" He could see
that Buffy's facade was beginning to dissipate. It was starting to
crumble right before his eyes, her mouth twitched, she was trying not
to cry. This concerned him immensly so, he had not known Buffy to let
her guard down like this. Not to anyone, least of all him. Her eyes
met with his suddenly and his heart called out to her. Indeed, she
truly was unhappy about something. "What is it?" A panic rose in
Haldir's voice, he didn't recognize himself. "It is something I have
been contemplating since I first met Legolas, Haldir. Something which
involves you and even though I know it is selfish of me to worry about
such things in a time like this, I cannot forsaken myself to yet a
different type of misery than that of which I face now." This
perplexed Haldir even more, for he did not know how distressed Buffy
had been until this past week. He merely assumed that she missed
Legolas terribly. He had no idea that it stemmed to him. "What
troubles you concerning Legolas and I? Is it something that has
conspired between us both?" Buffy shook her head and removed herself
from the table.
Buffy went over to the bed which Haldir and she shared. It was her
only comfort left and she intended to savor it for as long as
possible. She knew she had made the wrong decision and that she had
misconstruded the glance into the future. Legolas, indeed, was an
honorable Prince and a very good person. He redeemed many qualities
worthy of admiration, but his qualities were no match when compared to
Haldir. Haldir was the very face of beauty and charm, innocence and
honesty in Buffy's world. He possessed a wisom so great, a strength so
immense, he was true to everything he held close to him and he always
kept true to what he believed in. Everything she adored about him were
also reasons why she had fallen so far into him. Why she loved him so.
The qualities Haldir possessed could only be obtained by a spirit so
pure and only through age. It was true to say that Legolas wasn't much
older than Buffy was and he was eager upon the world as she had been
before meeting Angel. But she knew it was unfair of her to discern
Legolas's feelings for her and indeed, she did care for him a great
deal and in fact loved him for who he was and what he brought to the
earth, but her heart truly lied with Haldir. She decided right then,
that Legolas was whom she would remain with for a while.
"You've been quite for the longest time, little one. May I implore
your thoughts?" Buffy nodded, smiling. The feeling of comfort had
crept into her being and she had some solace left for which to hold on
to. "A great deal, melamin!" She exclaimed, close to nervous laughter.
"Will be good to go on another patrol, do you not agree?" Haldir gave
a grin, happy to have the Buffy he knew back. "I know it was a shock
to you, at the ceremony when Lord Celeborn called us both out and
announced that you were co-captain of the Wide Patrol with me."
Buffy's eyes fluttered down, she was remembering that night so
clearly. "I recall the speech he gave so clearly," She left off for
Haldir to finish and she knew he would. "Indeed. 'Buffy O' Lorien, as
of the half-year that has come to pass, one distinct feature has been
brought to our notice.' And, I remember the look you held on your
face. You were scared he was displeased with you." They both laughed.
Haldir continued on. "You expected to be scolded and when he spoke the
rest, a look of shock clearly could been seen on your face. 'You have
shown amazing leadership skills and the way you and Haldir work with
one another not only astonishes myself, but all of Middle-Earth. We
had expected Haldir to be the best Guardian we could ever have until
you came into the picture."
Haldir stopped. Both knew what was said after that and it was awkward
for either one to say out loud. Still, both heard it being spoken
within the privacy of their own minds. 'Haldir and yourself complete
each other. You are the moon, Haldir the sun; once placed together you
make Heaven. I know that you both care deeply for one another and I
also know of the love you both share, the admiration and deep, on-
growing respect which is held with high standard. That is why, with
great care and preciseness, I and Lady Galadriel have made the
conclusion that Haldir will be co-captain of the Wide Patrol, with you
being the other captain.' As the last words rang through their minds,
both smiled to themselves.
Wide Patrol
Weeks passed, the patrolling going as usual, with Haldir and Buffy
split this time between to teams which Haldir usually forms was formed
between the two. The few moments on the patrol that the two had
together, they spent together in private. Everyone in their patrol
noticed it and it wasn't overlooked. The week they had off, Haldir and
Buffy planned to take a trip together, hiking. Both looked forward to
it and the closeness it would bring with them both.
Buffy trailed behind Haldir a bit, it was hard to keep up with him
while both carried heavy packs on their backs. "Haldir! You move with
the speed of light and I cannot keep up!" She could hear his
snickering even if she stood a mile away. He turned and gave her a
gleeful eye. "That is funny coming from someone who is always boasting
about how well she runs!" Buffy gave him a playful glare. "Do not test
me! When will we stop? You know these trails better than I, I shall
leave it up to you to navigate." Haldir turned back toward the front,
looking in each direction. "We shall be nearing a spring pretty soon.
We can stop and dip for a while, if you'd like?" Hope was in his
voice, Buffy noticed. He was trying to strain it out and mask it, but
it clearly shown that he desired this time with her. "Sure."
A couple moments later, they arrived at a spring with high mountains
cornering it, secluding the space for only the two it seemed. Moss
covered the trees on the only entrance and exit to the spring and the
trees covered the sky where the mountains did not. Lily pads covered
the corner of the spring and this, Buffy mused, seemed so romantic.
Buffy had been to busy caught in her own examination of her
surroungings to noticed that Haldir had already dressed down to his
undergarment and was about to get into the water. She still had not
noticed when he came up behind her and helped her take her pack off.
She noticed it once her pack was gone and she felt light. "What are
you doing, Haldir?" He moved behind her once more. "Nothing." She gave
a playful grin toward the lake and out of sight from Haldir's silver
eyes. "Oh really?" She turned and pounced on him. They tumbled a few
feet away from the spring tumbling over each other. Buffy fell under
his grasp, he pressed his full weight onto her. "I've won. Now you
must do as I say." Haldir laughed supremely. He stopped when he
noticed that he was the only one laughing.
Buffy stared up at him and their eyes met for the longest moment. It
seemed to Buffy that both of them moved their faces toward each
other's rather quickly because in that next instance, they were
kissing each other. It was unlike any kiss they had ever shared
before. This one was filled with clarity and a strength for the
passion they shared for each other. It went on for quite some time
until Buffy pulled away in belayed hesistation. Haldir smiled, warmly.
"That was unexpected." Buffy pushed him off, she was completely
shocked at her lack of self-control. "Why did that happen?" Haldir
stood up, dusting the dirt off of him. His warm expression remained.
"It was the moment, Buffy." Buffy shook her head, backing away. "Yea
right! You planned this from the beginning didn't you?" Haldir shook
his head, still the expression remained. "It was the work of the
moment, Buffy nothing more." Buffy gave a scornful laugh, turning
around throwing her arms up and then twirling back around. "I'm sure!
I see why everyone swoons over you! I know your secret. You take them
on hikes with just you and them and woo them over. I'm telling you,
stay away from me!" Buffy picked up her pack and made for the trail.
"Buffy, wait!" He grabbed her arm and forced her to turn around and
face me. "I did not plan that, you must understand!" Buffy sneered.
"Yea right!" Haldir grew impatient. How could she blame him for her
own impulse? She was the one who kissed him and it did not seem fair
that he must take then bunt for this one when clearly, the fault lay
with Buffy. "You are indeed the most deceitful Elf in all of Middle-
Earth. To whom do you plan to woo next?" The next thing Buffy
remembered was laying on the ground with Haldir standing above her.
She touched her mouth with two finger, feeling the stinging pain on
her bottom lip and tasting the blood. "Now you plan to beat it out of
me? Trying to keep me quiet?" Haldir was angry now and it showed.
"Don't you ever say that to me again, Buffy! You kissed me, you kissed
me! Indeed, I kissed back, but you initiated it and you have no right
to get so angry with me. I have been nothing but honest with you,
which is least I can mention about you! You do nothing but confuse
everyone. Do you even know what you want?" Buffy laid back, her
expression now was not filled with anger, but shock at what she heard.
"Or better yet, whom you want?"
Buffy picked at the food that Haldir had placed in front of her barely
ten minutes ago. Her mind was racing from one thing to the next and
everytime it looped and brought her back to Legolas and Haldir. One
thing was terribly troubling to Buffy and that was the sole
realization on why it would never work between Legolas and herself:
Haldir. It was true, and at the basis of that truth was another, less
important realization: It seemed to her that she appeared to be
confused in whom she loved and that was the impression that she knew
both Haldir and Legolas held within themselves. Even though a week
ago, the night Legolas confessed his love for her, she knew that deep
within his mind were doubts, she could see them. He was uncertain if
her love for him was as honest as his was for her. He had good right
to doubt, too, because Buffy did not feel the love for him that she
thought she held before meeting him and this was also another concern
that was troubling her. Haldir was whom she truly wanted, and she had
had a week to contemplate this, for the patrol wasn't to leave for
patrol until next week and everyone was off on their own accord. All
but Haldir. He had remained near to her, even though they'd hardly
spoken a word since the Fellowship's departure from Lorien. She and
Haldir still shared his talan and his bed and this was the only
comfort to Buffy at this time. Besides her own selfish desires, there
was indeed the matter of the rest of Middle-Earth which troubled Buffy
as well.
Haldir watched Buffy, across from him. He could see the look of deep
concentration within her expression and he wondered to what lengths
she missed Legolas, ever since he had departed with the rest of the
Fellowship, she had detached herself from all form of communication
with anyone but him and even when she remotely made an attempt to say
anything to him, it was of his own speaking first and she complied
willingly. But this was different, every time he mentioned Legolas,
she did nothing to even express an interest let alone any sign of
missing him. It didn't seem to him that she even loved him the way she
had expressed before he had shown up. This was very perplexing. Every
time her eyes met with his, Haldir noticed, a pained look would return
his warm one and this pained him, too. Something was bothering his
love and he wished he knew how to open her up to him, the way she had
been before. "Are you going to even attempt eating what I have
prepared for you or are you planning on playing with it for all
eternity?"
Buffy's thoughts had been redirected to the Elf that sat before her,
staring at her curiously and with warm humor. She smiled up at him,
playfully. "Indeed, tis tempting to sit for an eternity and barter
with the food, but even as it is tempting, tis also very alarming a-
thought." She pushed her plate aside and played with her fingers,
entertwining them and then untwining them. It seemed to fascinate her
every time and she continued to do it, making no further attempt at
conversation. If she continued, she might not be able to conceal how
she felt about the situations at hand from Haldir. Somehow, he had
always been excellent with drawing her every emotion from her and it
caused her to hold herself out on a limb every time. "So it is certain
that you plan to starve, then?" Haldir's eyes remained on her, burning
into her soul, imploring her. She couldn't help but look at him, his
eyes compelled her to, his soul called for hers.
"I'm not hungry." Haldir nodded at the plainted statement. "You are
being terribly difficuly, melamin. What troubles you?" He could see
that Buffy's facade was beginning to dissipate. It was starting to
crumble right before his eyes, her mouth twitched, she was trying not
to cry. This concerned him immensly so, he had not known Buffy to let
her guard down like this. Not to anyone, least of all him. Her eyes
met with his suddenly and his heart called out to her. Indeed, she
truly was unhappy about something. "What is it?" A panic rose in
Haldir's voice, he didn't recognize himself. "It is something I have
been contemplating since I first met Legolas, Haldir. Something which
involves you and even though I know it is selfish of me to worry about
such things in a time like this, I cannot forsaken myself to yet a
different type of misery than that of which I face now." This
perplexed Haldir even more, for he did not know how distressed Buffy
had been until this past week. He merely assumed that she missed
Legolas terribly. He had no idea that it stemmed to him. "What
troubles you concerning Legolas and I? Is it something that has
conspired between us both?" Buffy shook her head and removed herself
from the table.
Buffy went over to the bed which Haldir and she shared. It was her
only comfort left and she intended to savor it for as long as
possible. She knew she had made the wrong decision and that she had
misconstruded the glance into the future. Legolas, indeed, was an
honorable Prince and a very good person. He redeemed many qualities
worthy of admiration, but his qualities were no match when compared to
Haldir. Haldir was the very face of beauty and charm, innocence and
honesty in Buffy's world. He possessed a wisom so great, a strength so
immense, he was true to everything he held close to him and he always
kept true to what he believed in. Everything she adored about him were
also reasons why she had fallen so far into him. Why she loved him so.
The qualities Haldir possessed could only be obtained by a spirit so
pure and only through age. It was true to say that Legolas wasn't much
older than Buffy was and he was eager upon the world as she had been
before meeting Angel. But she knew it was unfair of her to discern
Legolas's feelings for her and indeed, she did care for him a great
deal and in fact loved him for who he was and what he brought to the
earth, but her heart truly lied with Haldir. She decided right then,
that Legolas was whom she would remain with for a while.
"You've been quite for the longest time, little one. May I implore
your thoughts?" Buffy nodded, smiling. The feeling of comfort had
crept into her being and she had some solace left for which to hold on
to. "A great deal, melamin!" She exclaimed, close to nervous laughter.
"Will be good to go on another patrol, do you not agree?" Haldir gave
a grin, happy to have the Buffy he knew back. "I know it was a shock
to you, at the ceremony when Lord Celeborn called us both out and
announced that you were co-captain of the Wide Patrol with me."
Buffy's eyes fluttered down, she was remembering that night so
clearly. "I recall the speech he gave so clearly," She left off for
Haldir to finish and she knew he would. "Indeed. 'Buffy O' Lorien, as
of the half-year that has come to pass, one distinct feature has been
brought to our notice.' And, I remember the look you held on your
face. You were scared he was displeased with you." They both laughed.
Haldir continued on. "You expected to be scolded and when he spoke the
rest, a look of shock clearly could been seen on your face. 'You have
shown amazing leadership skills and the way you and Haldir work with
one another not only astonishes myself, but all of Middle-Earth. We
had expected Haldir to be the best Guardian we could ever have until
you came into the picture."
Haldir stopped. Both knew what was said after that and it was awkward
for either one to say out loud. Still, both heard it being spoken
within the privacy of their own minds. 'Haldir and yourself complete
each other. You are the moon, Haldir the sun; once placed together you
make Heaven. I know that you both care deeply for one another and I
also know of the love you both share, the admiration and deep, on-
growing respect which is held with high standard. That is why, with
great care and preciseness, I and Lady Galadriel have made the
conclusion that Haldir will be co-captain of the Wide Patrol, with you
being the other captain.' As the last words rang through their minds,
both smiled to themselves.
Wide Patrol
Weeks passed, the patrolling going as usual, with Haldir and Buffy
split this time between to teams which Haldir usually forms was formed
between the two. The few moments on the patrol that the two had
together, they spent together in private. Everyone in their patrol
noticed it and it wasn't overlooked. The week they had off, Haldir and
Buffy planned to take a trip together, hiking. Both looked forward to
it and the closeness it would bring with them both.
Buffy trailed behind Haldir a bit, it was hard to keep up with him
while both carried heavy packs on their backs. "Haldir! You move with
the speed of light and I cannot keep up!" She could hear his
snickering even if she stood a mile away. He turned and gave her a
gleeful eye. "That is funny coming from someone who is always boasting
about how well she runs!" Buffy gave him a playful glare. "Do not test
me! When will we stop? You know these trails better than I, I shall
leave it up to you to navigate." Haldir turned back toward the front,
looking in each direction. "We shall be nearing a spring pretty soon.
We can stop and dip for a while, if you'd like?" Hope was in his
voice, Buffy noticed. He was trying to strain it out and mask it, but
it clearly shown that he desired this time with her. "Sure."
A couple moments later, they arrived at a spring with high mountains
cornering it, secluding the space for only the two it seemed. Moss
covered the trees on the only entrance and exit to the spring and the
trees covered the sky where the mountains did not. Lily pads covered
the corner of the spring and this, Buffy mused, seemed so romantic.
Buffy had been to busy caught in her own examination of her
surroungings to noticed that Haldir had already dressed down to his
undergarment and was about to get into the water. She still had not
noticed when he came up behind her and helped her take her pack off.
She noticed it once her pack was gone and she felt light. "What are
you doing, Haldir?" He moved behind her once more. "Nothing." She gave
a playful grin toward the lake and out of sight from Haldir's silver
eyes. "Oh really?" She turned and pounced on him. They tumbled a few
feet away from the spring tumbling over each other. Buffy fell under
his grasp, he pressed his full weight onto her. "I've won. Now you
must do as I say." Haldir laughed supremely. He stopped when he
noticed that he was the only one laughing.
Buffy stared up at him and their eyes met for the longest moment. It
seemed to Buffy that both of them moved their faces toward each
other's rather quickly because in that next instance, they were
kissing each other. It was unlike any kiss they had ever shared
before. This one was filled with clarity and a strength for the
passion they shared for each other. It went on for quite some time
until Buffy pulled away in belayed hesistation. Haldir smiled, warmly.
"That was unexpected." Buffy pushed him off, she was completely
shocked at her lack of self-control. "Why did that happen?" Haldir
stood up, dusting the dirt off of him. His warm expression remained.
"It was the moment, Buffy." Buffy shook her head, backing away. "Yea
right! You planned this from the beginning didn't you?" Haldir shook
his head, still the expression remained. "It was the work of the
moment, Buffy nothing more." Buffy gave a scornful laugh, turning
around throwing her arms up and then twirling back around. "I'm sure!
I see why everyone swoons over you! I know your secret. You take them
on hikes with just you and them and woo them over. I'm telling you,
stay away from me!" Buffy picked up her pack and made for the trail.
"Buffy, wait!" He grabbed her arm and forced her to turn around and
face me. "I did not plan that, you must understand!" Buffy sneered.
"Yea right!" Haldir grew impatient. How could she blame him for her
own impulse? She was the one who kissed him and it did not seem fair
that he must take then bunt for this one when clearly, the fault lay
with Buffy. "You are indeed the most deceitful Elf in all of Middle-
Earth. To whom do you plan to woo next?" The next thing Buffy
remembered was laying on the ground with Haldir standing above her.
She touched her mouth with two finger, feeling the stinging pain on
her bottom lip and tasting the blood. "Now you plan to beat it out of
me? Trying to keep me quiet?" Haldir was angry now and it showed.
"Don't you ever say that to me again, Buffy! You kissed me, you kissed
me! Indeed, I kissed back, but you initiated it and you have no right
to get so angry with me. I have been nothing but honest with you,
which is least I can mention about you! You do nothing but confuse
everyone. Do you even know what you want?" Buffy laid back, her
expression now was not filled with anger, but shock at what she heard.
"Or better yet, whom you want?"