A/N: This is for mixed_emotions
Hi there, read your review and I thanked you for it. I will take heed to
the constructive criticism but I do not like it when you call me names.
Who gave you the right to give me names? Do you know me at all? I am sure
you don't. If you do not like this fic, you do not have to read them, for
I am sure, I did not force you to read it.
To the rest who like my fic, thank you very much for your support and reviews. Sorry for the long delay. Again, thanks to Cheysuli for betaing. Enjoy the chapter.
A/N: 'Italics are self thoughts' ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter 4
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*** Back at Aurwen's chambers ***
"Aurwen, are you in there?" asked Dunhirion as he knocked on the door.
"Just a moment, Dun." I quickly set my light blue velour dress straight before opening the door for him. "You look stunning, mellon nin. Do come in."
"You look beautiful yourself. You should listen to your father more often. Wearing a dress is not that difficult. I am sure many will not be able to recognize you," said Dunhirion, arching a brow.
"You are too kind, Dun. Can you help me out with this clip here? I cannot quite reach it." Just as Dunhirion was about to help me, there was a knock at the door. "Who is it?"
"It is I, your father," answered Haldir. "May I enter?"
"Yes, Adar, Dun is here with me," I said as Haldir entered the room.
"You look beautiful, my daughter," he said with a kissed to my forehead. "The same goes to you, Dunhirion. You may attract some elf-maidens in that outfit of yours."
"Thank you, my lord," answered Dunhirion, blushing at the remark. "I will see you at the ball," whispered Dunhirion before excused himself and left.
"Am I that terrible of an elf, Aurwen?" asked Haldir.
"Why do you say that, father?"
"Whenever I am around you, your friends always excuse themselves and leave."
"Oh, Adar, you are anything but a terrible elf. You are their teacher, as well as their captain in battles. It is hard for many to be around you, especially when not in training."
"I see. Is that all that is bothering them?" asked Haldir, throwing Aurwen a quizzical look.
"That is all, Adar. It is not an easy task for me either, to be your daughter. Remember those times when no one really knew me? It was easy to gain a friend but ever since they found out that I am the foster daughter of the Guardian of Lorien, friends were hard to find. Everyone was afraid to even play with me. I did not understand any of it then and always thought that something was actually wrong with me but I learned of the reason why, after many painstaking conversations with Lady Galadriel," I said. "You had always tried to console me when I suddenly broke into tears without valid reasons and till today you do not know why. Now you know, Adar," I said, shying away from his gaze.
"Aurwen, I am sorry that you had to go through all of this. You should have told me, rather than sharing it with Lady Galadriel. I could have understood you better," said Haldir as he tilted my chin up to meet his gaze. "I know I was not there most of the time when you were growing up. I had to fulfill my duties as Lorien's guardian as well as being your father. However, do remember this, you are and will always be my daughter."
"Oh, Adar, I love you too," I said as tears ran down my cheeks.
"Aurwen, you are being silly. There is no need for tears. Let me help you get ready for tonight's ball. Maybe you will find your future husband there. You are as beautiful as any elven maiden here in Lorien. It will be a long night for both of us," said Haldir as he helped wipe the tears away before finishing braiding my hair.
On our way out, we crossed path with Elladan. "Aurwen, you look stunning. If it was not for Haldir, I would have failed to recognize you."
"You are such a tease, Elladan," I said. "It is a puzzle why you are still unattached."
"Haldir, may I have the honour of being Aurwen's escort for tonight?"
"Elladan, you are the guest of honour. How is it possible for you to be my escort? Tonight's ball is about you and Elrohir, not me," I protested.
"By all means, Elladan," said Haldir as he placed my hand on Elladan's arm. "You will be fine, Aurwen. I have some unfinished matters to discuss anyway. Lead her to the ball, Elladan. I will be there later tonight."
As we walked down the corridor, we could hear music being played. Tonight's ball was somewhat different, it was smaller in scale but all of Lorien were invited. As we neared the banquet hall, Elladan spotted Elrohir, holding Niana close to him.
"Aurwen, I see Elrohir and Niana over there. Let us surprise him." I nodded my head to his suggestion. As we got nearer, Elladan tapped his brother on the shoulder. "I see that you are enjoying yourself, my dear Elrohir."
"Elladan! How nice of you to finally join us. This is Niana, and may I know who this beautiful elf-maid that you are escorting?" asked Elrohir.
Just as Elladan was about to answer, Elrohir saw the Star of Luthien hanging around my neck. "Aurwen! I could hardly recognize you, I thought you were some she-elf that Elladan had invited to the ball."
I could feel my face turning red. 'Am I really that different tonight?' I asked myself. Elladan knew that I was embarrassed by that statement, he could feel my hand tighten around his arm.
"It is nice to see you again, Niana," said Elladan, breaking the silence. "Haldir has some issues to discuss, so Aurwen has been placed under my care until he arrives." Elladan knew that I felt better and to assure me that everything would be fine, he had his hand on mine and gave it a gentle squeeze.
'Why am I having this feeling? It cannot be Elladan, he is like a brother and moreover, he is way too old for me. He cannot be the elf that Elrohir had in mind, although he does fit the description perfectly. He is noble, a warrior, and great in defense and someone father will agree upon.'
"Aurwen, are you alright?" asked Elladan with concern in his voice.
"I am fine, Elladan. I just had a lot in mind. Hey, it is your ball, do not let me tie you down. Go and mix with the other maidens," I said with a weak smile.
"Nay, Aurwen, I will only leave you when Haldir gets back. Moreover, I am not interested in any of the maidens here, they are simply not my type."
I was shocked to hear him say that. 'This cannot be, Elladan could not possibly be the elf. Where is father or even Dunhirion when I need help.' Just then, I saw Dunhirion entered the hall with Galin. "Dun! Galin!" I called to them.
"Aurwen, Elladan. This is Galin," said Dunhirion as Galin and Elladan got acquainted.
"You look great tonight, Aurwen. If Dunhirion did not acknowledge your call, I would not even know it was you. Again, I am really sorry for what I did to your arm yesterday," said Galin apologetically.
"Apology accepted. Do not worry about it. It was an accident and I am fine now. It is healing well." I gave Galin a hug to assure him that everything is well.
Being so near to me, Elladan heard the whole conversation. "So Galin, you were the one that was responsible for her injury," said Elladan with anger in his voice.
"Indeed I am," answered Galin, puzzled over the sudden anger.
"Elladan, it was an accident and it happened during training. It was not his fault, please understand that," I intervened. "I am fine now."
"Sorry, Aurwen. I do not know what got into me," said Elladan. He turned to Galin. "Do accept my apology, Galin. She is very dear to me and it pains me to see something like this happen to her."
"I understand you clearly, Elladan. I am devastated myself for letting it happen. I wished that I was skillful enough to avoid it," said Galin.
"Nay, Galin, father did say accidents do happen. Will you all give it a rest already? My arm is healing well and I will have full mobility by tomorrow." 'This is not helping at all. Where is father? I need him badly.' "Will the three of you please excuse me? I need some space..alone."
I could hear Elladan's footsteps behind me. "Aurwen, are you well?" he said as he caught up to me.
"I am just overwhelmed, Elladan. I have a lot in my mind right now," I said before taking a seat in the patio, while gently brushing away, my loose tresses with the back of my hand.
"Do you want to talk about it? I am here to hear you out if you want to," offered Elladan as he took a sit beside me.
"Nay, Elladan. You are tonight's guest of honour, this ball is being held because of you and your brother's visit to Lorien. Tomorrow there will be another ball and this time, to honour the company from Mirkwood. I just need some time alone."
"Anyhow, remember that I am here for you. Always," said Elladan as he took my hand and held it in his.
Startled and shocked by his actions, I pulled my hand away. "Thank you for your concerns. I really do appreciate your thoughtfulness but I am not ready to discuss this with you just yet. I hope you understand."
"Indeed. I see Haldir approaching," said Elladan. "Haldir, how is everything?" asked Elladan when he finally arrived.
"Most of it had been addressed," answered Haldir before turning his attention to me. "What is the matter, Aurwen?"
"Nothing, Adar. Elladan has been too kind, spending most of his time with me. You should not had him escort me, he is our honoured guest. Moreover, I am sure that I will do just fine," I answered with a smile.
"Nay, Aurwen, I want to be your escort," interrupted Elladan. "I can do the same for tomorrow when the company from Mirkwood arrives."
"A fine idea, Elladan," said Haldir. "At least now, I do not have to worry if you will be elsewhere tomorrow."
"But, Adar," I protested, disbelieved at what I have just heard.
"Aurwen, I care for you and I have my reasons for making this call. Thank you, Elladan, for offering."
"Nay, Haldir. I am happy to be able to help. Ahhh, it looks like everyone is enjoying themselves tonight. I see Elrohir and Niana in the dance area. May I, Haldir, have Aurwen's hand for a dance?"
Haldir nodded his head. "Have fun, both of you," said Haldir before whispering "We will talk later tonight, my daughter," to my ear.
While we were out on the floor dancing the night away, Haldir went up to Celeborn and Galadriel to report on tonight's patrol. "My Lord, my Lady, everything is under control. We have guards within the borders and some outside the surrounding perimeters. I will be the first to know if there are any Orcs sighted."
"Well done, Haldir. Looks like my grandson is enjoying your daughter's company," mentioned Celeborn. The three of them turned their attention towards the dance area. "Aurwen does seem lovely tonight. Elladan has not left her side since the two of them walked in together. I wished they could be together, they would make a lovely pair," Celeborn continued.
Placing her hand on Celeborn, Galadriel said, "It is up to them as both can be quite stubborn. As far as I know, Aurwen sees Elladan more as a brother than a future love interest. After all, she spent most of her time growing up among males. She had me as her only guide to being a lady," Galadriel answered, hiding a smile.
"The twins are so different. Elladan is rather shy, like his mother but sweet in many ways. I do not know why he has not found a wife," mentioned Celeborn as he watched his grandsons danced. "Elrohir, on the other hand, has taken a liking to Niana. I hope they will marry soon," continued Celeborn before turning his gaze to Galadriel.
"I am sure you will be able to see them married, my lord. It also seems to me that the ball is coming to an end. Most are leaving," said Haldir. Turning to face Galadriel, he continued, "I still have issues to discuss with Aurwen, she has been having dreams."
"She will come to understand them. It has just begun and she is new in it. I am glad you are helping her with it, Haldir," Galadriel said, confidence in her voice.
"It will not be an easy task. It is hard for her to share her feelings and I think that she shared most of it with you when she was younger," said Haldir.
"That she did, but not of late. She has been too preoccupied with her training. I assume she wants to make you proud," Galadriel suggested, arching a brow.
"It was a blessing from the Valar, finding her and accepting her as my daughter."
"Well, Haldir, looks like we have to carry this conversation some other time. I see Elladan and Aurwen heading this way," said Galadriel as she looked over to her left. Turning back to Haldir, she continued, "Do ask Aurwen to come and see me if there is anything that she needs to discuss. Celeborn and I shall retire for the night." The Lord and Lady of the Golden Woods then got up from their seats.
Rising from his chair, Haldir bowed. "I will let her know. I will also fill you in on the Orcs activity by tomorrow morning. Goodnight my Lord, my Lady."
While Elladan and I were walking towards my father, we crossed paths with Galadriel and Celeborn. We bade them goodnight before making our way to where my father was seated.
"Aurwen, it looks like you had a good time tonight."
"Indeed, father. Elladan can really dance, I did not expect a warrior like him to dance so well."
"It is what most called practice, Aurwen. After all, I have been around for a long time. Father would be ashamed if his first born son could not fulfill his 'princely' duties," said Elladan, grinning.
"I am happy to see that you enjoyed yourself," said Haldir to Aurwen before turning to Elladan. "You have been an excellent escort to Aurwen and I thank you for that," continued Haldir as he placed his hand on Elladan's shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze.
"You have your duties to perform as Lorien's guardian, it was a pleasure to be able to help. Being an escort to Aurwen was much easier than being one to Arwen," said Elladan.
"Yes, I remembered that night. Arwen had a little too much to drink, and caused a little trouble. She was reciting poetry the whole night but not the poetry that one hears everyday in public. Lord Elrond and Estel were really embarrassed by the whole situation. Elladan had to carry her to her chambers after that," answered Haldir.
"She was a handful," said Elladan nodding his head. "It is late and there are guests arriving tomorrow. You need your rest, Aurwen. Moreover, you owe me something in which I will redeem tomorrow," said Elladan.
"I remember. Thank you for a lovely evening, Elladan. I really did enjoy myself." I reached over and gave Elladan a big hug.
"You do not have to thank me, for I too had a wonderful night. You amaze me Aurwen, foster daughter of Haldir," said Elladan before he bent down and kissed me on the cheek.
"G-Goodnight Elladan. Do not worry about walking me back to my chamber. Father will accompany me," I said while trying hard to hide my embarrassment. What was that all about?
"Alright then, goodnight, Aurwen, Haldir. I shall be seeing you tomorrow morning. It will be a fun filled day, I promise you that," said Elladan, giving me a wink.
As Elladan walked away, Haldir broke the silence. "Are you alright?" Haldir asked, puzzled over the sudden quietness.
"Let us head back to my room, Adar," I said while avoiding my fathers' eyes.
When we got to my room, I hurried into my bath room before father could utter a word. 'Calm down, Aurwen. I am sure it was nothing. It was merely a brotherly kiss, a kiss that meant nothing.'
"Aurwen, is something a matter?"
"Nay, Adar. I will be out soon," I said as I quickly changed into my nightgown.
"Are you sure you are fine?" asked Haldir when I walked out to my room. "Your eyes are deceiving you. Do you want to talk about it?" Haldir continued, arching a brow.
"I do not even know where to start, there were too many changes within one day. I thought I could handle it but I was wrong, Adar. I am sorry if I have disappointed you," I said as I finally broke down and cried.
"It is all right to cry, Aurwen. I am here now and we can discuss all of it tonight," said Haldir gently stroking my head.
"Oh, Adar," was all I could say. It was very clear that the changes were too overwhelming for me to handle alone.
After much consoling, Haldir gently pushed me away from his chest, while lifting my chin so our eyes met. "Aurwen, if you are ready we can start with your dreams and work our way from there."
I nodded in agreement.
tbc...
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A/N: Do not forget to leave a review. Thank you.
To the rest who like my fic, thank you very much for your support and reviews. Sorry for the long delay. Again, thanks to Cheysuli for betaing. Enjoy the chapter.
A/N: 'Italics are self thoughts' ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter 4
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*** Back at Aurwen's chambers ***
"Aurwen, are you in there?" asked Dunhirion as he knocked on the door.
"Just a moment, Dun." I quickly set my light blue velour dress straight before opening the door for him. "You look stunning, mellon nin. Do come in."
"You look beautiful yourself. You should listen to your father more often. Wearing a dress is not that difficult. I am sure many will not be able to recognize you," said Dunhirion, arching a brow.
"You are too kind, Dun. Can you help me out with this clip here? I cannot quite reach it." Just as Dunhirion was about to help me, there was a knock at the door. "Who is it?"
"It is I, your father," answered Haldir. "May I enter?"
"Yes, Adar, Dun is here with me," I said as Haldir entered the room.
"You look beautiful, my daughter," he said with a kissed to my forehead. "The same goes to you, Dunhirion. You may attract some elf-maidens in that outfit of yours."
"Thank you, my lord," answered Dunhirion, blushing at the remark. "I will see you at the ball," whispered Dunhirion before excused himself and left.
"Am I that terrible of an elf, Aurwen?" asked Haldir.
"Why do you say that, father?"
"Whenever I am around you, your friends always excuse themselves and leave."
"Oh, Adar, you are anything but a terrible elf. You are their teacher, as well as their captain in battles. It is hard for many to be around you, especially when not in training."
"I see. Is that all that is bothering them?" asked Haldir, throwing Aurwen a quizzical look.
"That is all, Adar. It is not an easy task for me either, to be your daughter. Remember those times when no one really knew me? It was easy to gain a friend but ever since they found out that I am the foster daughter of the Guardian of Lorien, friends were hard to find. Everyone was afraid to even play with me. I did not understand any of it then and always thought that something was actually wrong with me but I learned of the reason why, after many painstaking conversations with Lady Galadriel," I said. "You had always tried to console me when I suddenly broke into tears without valid reasons and till today you do not know why. Now you know, Adar," I said, shying away from his gaze.
"Aurwen, I am sorry that you had to go through all of this. You should have told me, rather than sharing it with Lady Galadriel. I could have understood you better," said Haldir as he tilted my chin up to meet his gaze. "I know I was not there most of the time when you were growing up. I had to fulfill my duties as Lorien's guardian as well as being your father. However, do remember this, you are and will always be my daughter."
"Oh, Adar, I love you too," I said as tears ran down my cheeks.
"Aurwen, you are being silly. There is no need for tears. Let me help you get ready for tonight's ball. Maybe you will find your future husband there. You are as beautiful as any elven maiden here in Lorien. It will be a long night for both of us," said Haldir as he helped wipe the tears away before finishing braiding my hair.
On our way out, we crossed path with Elladan. "Aurwen, you look stunning. If it was not for Haldir, I would have failed to recognize you."
"You are such a tease, Elladan," I said. "It is a puzzle why you are still unattached."
"Haldir, may I have the honour of being Aurwen's escort for tonight?"
"Elladan, you are the guest of honour. How is it possible for you to be my escort? Tonight's ball is about you and Elrohir, not me," I protested.
"By all means, Elladan," said Haldir as he placed my hand on Elladan's arm. "You will be fine, Aurwen. I have some unfinished matters to discuss anyway. Lead her to the ball, Elladan. I will be there later tonight."
As we walked down the corridor, we could hear music being played. Tonight's ball was somewhat different, it was smaller in scale but all of Lorien were invited. As we neared the banquet hall, Elladan spotted Elrohir, holding Niana close to him.
"Aurwen, I see Elrohir and Niana over there. Let us surprise him." I nodded my head to his suggestion. As we got nearer, Elladan tapped his brother on the shoulder. "I see that you are enjoying yourself, my dear Elrohir."
"Elladan! How nice of you to finally join us. This is Niana, and may I know who this beautiful elf-maid that you are escorting?" asked Elrohir.
Just as Elladan was about to answer, Elrohir saw the Star of Luthien hanging around my neck. "Aurwen! I could hardly recognize you, I thought you were some she-elf that Elladan had invited to the ball."
I could feel my face turning red. 'Am I really that different tonight?' I asked myself. Elladan knew that I was embarrassed by that statement, he could feel my hand tighten around his arm.
"It is nice to see you again, Niana," said Elladan, breaking the silence. "Haldir has some issues to discuss, so Aurwen has been placed under my care until he arrives." Elladan knew that I felt better and to assure me that everything would be fine, he had his hand on mine and gave it a gentle squeeze.
'Why am I having this feeling? It cannot be Elladan, he is like a brother and moreover, he is way too old for me. He cannot be the elf that Elrohir had in mind, although he does fit the description perfectly. He is noble, a warrior, and great in defense and someone father will agree upon.'
"Aurwen, are you alright?" asked Elladan with concern in his voice.
"I am fine, Elladan. I just had a lot in mind. Hey, it is your ball, do not let me tie you down. Go and mix with the other maidens," I said with a weak smile.
"Nay, Aurwen, I will only leave you when Haldir gets back. Moreover, I am not interested in any of the maidens here, they are simply not my type."
I was shocked to hear him say that. 'This cannot be, Elladan could not possibly be the elf. Where is father or even Dunhirion when I need help.' Just then, I saw Dunhirion entered the hall with Galin. "Dun! Galin!" I called to them.
"Aurwen, Elladan. This is Galin," said Dunhirion as Galin and Elladan got acquainted.
"You look great tonight, Aurwen. If Dunhirion did not acknowledge your call, I would not even know it was you. Again, I am really sorry for what I did to your arm yesterday," said Galin apologetically.
"Apology accepted. Do not worry about it. It was an accident and I am fine now. It is healing well." I gave Galin a hug to assure him that everything is well.
Being so near to me, Elladan heard the whole conversation. "So Galin, you were the one that was responsible for her injury," said Elladan with anger in his voice.
"Indeed I am," answered Galin, puzzled over the sudden anger.
"Elladan, it was an accident and it happened during training. It was not his fault, please understand that," I intervened. "I am fine now."
"Sorry, Aurwen. I do not know what got into me," said Elladan. He turned to Galin. "Do accept my apology, Galin. She is very dear to me and it pains me to see something like this happen to her."
"I understand you clearly, Elladan. I am devastated myself for letting it happen. I wished that I was skillful enough to avoid it," said Galin.
"Nay, Galin, father did say accidents do happen. Will you all give it a rest already? My arm is healing well and I will have full mobility by tomorrow." 'This is not helping at all. Where is father? I need him badly.' "Will the three of you please excuse me? I need some space..alone."
I could hear Elladan's footsteps behind me. "Aurwen, are you well?" he said as he caught up to me.
"I am just overwhelmed, Elladan. I have a lot in my mind right now," I said before taking a seat in the patio, while gently brushing away, my loose tresses with the back of my hand.
"Do you want to talk about it? I am here to hear you out if you want to," offered Elladan as he took a sit beside me.
"Nay, Elladan. You are tonight's guest of honour, this ball is being held because of you and your brother's visit to Lorien. Tomorrow there will be another ball and this time, to honour the company from Mirkwood. I just need some time alone."
"Anyhow, remember that I am here for you. Always," said Elladan as he took my hand and held it in his.
Startled and shocked by his actions, I pulled my hand away. "Thank you for your concerns. I really do appreciate your thoughtfulness but I am not ready to discuss this with you just yet. I hope you understand."
"Indeed. I see Haldir approaching," said Elladan. "Haldir, how is everything?" asked Elladan when he finally arrived.
"Most of it had been addressed," answered Haldir before turning his attention to me. "What is the matter, Aurwen?"
"Nothing, Adar. Elladan has been too kind, spending most of his time with me. You should not had him escort me, he is our honoured guest. Moreover, I am sure that I will do just fine," I answered with a smile.
"Nay, Aurwen, I want to be your escort," interrupted Elladan. "I can do the same for tomorrow when the company from Mirkwood arrives."
"A fine idea, Elladan," said Haldir. "At least now, I do not have to worry if you will be elsewhere tomorrow."
"But, Adar," I protested, disbelieved at what I have just heard.
"Aurwen, I care for you and I have my reasons for making this call. Thank you, Elladan, for offering."
"Nay, Haldir. I am happy to be able to help. Ahhh, it looks like everyone is enjoying themselves tonight. I see Elrohir and Niana in the dance area. May I, Haldir, have Aurwen's hand for a dance?"
Haldir nodded his head. "Have fun, both of you," said Haldir before whispering "We will talk later tonight, my daughter," to my ear.
While we were out on the floor dancing the night away, Haldir went up to Celeborn and Galadriel to report on tonight's patrol. "My Lord, my Lady, everything is under control. We have guards within the borders and some outside the surrounding perimeters. I will be the first to know if there are any Orcs sighted."
"Well done, Haldir. Looks like my grandson is enjoying your daughter's company," mentioned Celeborn. The three of them turned their attention towards the dance area. "Aurwen does seem lovely tonight. Elladan has not left her side since the two of them walked in together. I wished they could be together, they would make a lovely pair," Celeborn continued.
Placing her hand on Celeborn, Galadriel said, "It is up to them as both can be quite stubborn. As far as I know, Aurwen sees Elladan more as a brother than a future love interest. After all, she spent most of her time growing up among males. She had me as her only guide to being a lady," Galadriel answered, hiding a smile.
"The twins are so different. Elladan is rather shy, like his mother but sweet in many ways. I do not know why he has not found a wife," mentioned Celeborn as he watched his grandsons danced. "Elrohir, on the other hand, has taken a liking to Niana. I hope they will marry soon," continued Celeborn before turning his gaze to Galadriel.
"I am sure you will be able to see them married, my lord. It also seems to me that the ball is coming to an end. Most are leaving," said Haldir. Turning to face Galadriel, he continued, "I still have issues to discuss with Aurwen, she has been having dreams."
"She will come to understand them. It has just begun and she is new in it. I am glad you are helping her with it, Haldir," Galadriel said, confidence in her voice.
"It will not be an easy task. It is hard for her to share her feelings and I think that she shared most of it with you when she was younger," said Haldir.
"That she did, but not of late. She has been too preoccupied with her training. I assume she wants to make you proud," Galadriel suggested, arching a brow.
"It was a blessing from the Valar, finding her and accepting her as my daughter."
"Well, Haldir, looks like we have to carry this conversation some other time. I see Elladan and Aurwen heading this way," said Galadriel as she looked over to her left. Turning back to Haldir, she continued, "Do ask Aurwen to come and see me if there is anything that she needs to discuss. Celeborn and I shall retire for the night." The Lord and Lady of the Golden Woods then got up from their seats.
Rising from his chair, Haldir bowed. "I will let her know. I will also fill you in on the Orcs activity by tomorrow morning. Goodnight my Lord, my Lady."
While Elladan and I were walking towards my father, we crossed paths with Galadriel and Celeborn. We bade them goodnight before making our way to where my father was seated.
"Aurwen, it looks like you had a good time tonight."
"Indeed, father. Elladan can really dance, I did not expect a warrior like him to dance so well."
"It is what most called practice, Aurwen. After all, I have been around for a long time. Father would be ashamed if his first born son could not fulfill his 'princely' duties," said Elladan, grinning.
"I am happy to see that you enjoyed yourself," said Haldir to Aurwen before turning to Elladan. "You have been an excellent escort to Aurwen and I thank you for that," continued Haldir as he placed his hand on Elladan's shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze.
"You have your duties to perform as Lorien's guardian, it was a pleasure to be able to help. Being an escort to Aurwen was much easier than being one to Arwen," said Elladan.
"Yes, I remembered that night. Arwen had a little too much to drink, and caused a little trouble. She was reciting poetry the whole night but not the poetry that one hears everyday in public. Lord Elrond and Estel were really embarrassed by the whole situation. Elladan had to carry her to her chambers after that," answered Haldir.
"She was a handful," said Elladan nodding his head. "It is late and there are guests arriving tomorrow. You need your rest, Aurwen. Moreover, you owe me something in which I will redeem tomorrow," said Elladan.
"I remember. Thank you for a lovely evening, Elladan. I really did enjoy myself." I reached over and gave Elladan a big hug.
"You do not have to thank me, for I too had a wonderful night. You amaze me Aurwen, foster daughter of Haldir," said Elladan before he bent down and kissed me on the cheek.
"G-Goodnight Elladan. Do not worry about walking me back to my chamber. Father will accompany me," I said while trying hard to hide my embarrassment. What was that all about?
"Alright then, goodnight, Aurwen, Haldir. I shall be seeing you tomorrow morning. It will be a fun filled day, I promise you that," said Elladan, giving me a wink.
As Elladan walked away, Haldir broke the silence. "Are you alright?" Haldir asked, puzzled over the sudden quietness.
"Let us head back to my room, Adar," I said while avoiding my fathers' eyes.
When we got to my room, I hurried into my bath room before father could utter a word. 'Calm down, Aurwen. I am sure it was nothing. It was merely a brotherly kiss, a kiss that meant nothing.'
"Aurwen, is something a matter?"
"Nay, Adar. I will be out soon," I said as I quickly changed into my nightgown.
"Are you sure you are fine?" asked Haldir when I walked out to my room. "Your eyes are deceiving you. Do you want to talk about it?" Haldir continued, arching a brow.
"I do not even know where to start, there were too many changes within one day. I thought I could handle it but I was wrong, Adar. I am sorry if I have disappointed you," I said as I finally broke down and cried.
"It is all right to cry, Aurwen. I am here now and we can discuss all of it tonight," said Haldir gently stroking my head.
"Oh, Adar," was all I could say. It was very clear that the changes were too overwhelming for me to handle alone.
After much consoling, Haldir gently pushed me away from his chest, while lifting my chin so our eyes met. "Aurwen, if you are ready we can start with your dreams and work our way from there."
I nodded in agreement.
tbc...
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A/N: Do not forget to leave a review. Thank you.