A/N: Thank you Faye for being my beta. Thank you all who have reviewed and loving every bit of this fic. I can still remember the first time I post this on ff.net. I have written a one shot slash fic and it can be found at adultfanfiction. Email me if you do not know the website or check at my id, as I should have the link there. I cannot post it here due to the rating. I hope you like what I have up in this chapter. Remember to review. Once again, 'self-thoughts' are in italics.
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Chapter 9
"Finally," exclaimed Erestor who was sprawling on the bed. "I have never like banquets."
"You have to get use to it, if you want to be with me, my love" answered Elrond lazily as he stretched next to Erestor. "I wonder what the people of Lorien are thinking at the moment? This is the first time they have ever seen two old male elves together," said Elrond as he pulled Erestor closer to him.
Angered by the remark, Erestor pulled away before whispering, "It was you, who wanted the people of Lorien to know about us. You even assured me that it will be all right."
"Everything will be all right, my love. You just worry too much," said Elrond as he reached for his lover. "I love you, Erestor."
"As I to you," replied Erestor, as he snuggled closer to Elrond. "Hmmm, I have been waiting for this moment since we left Imladris. I can lay here all day."
It was a beautiful night, in Lorien. The moon was visible and its light beamed into the chambers that they were in. Gazing into his lover's eyes, Erestor smiled before capturing Elrond's lips.
"Erestor," said Elrond in between kisses, "you have got to stop. It has been a long day and I am tired," pleaded Elrond.
"No day is ever too long for me when I am with you," whispered Erestor before he kissed his lover again. "You taste sweet, my love," said Erestor before deepening his kiss.
"It must have been the wine," replied Elrond as he tore himself away for a breather. "A little eager, are you not, Erestor?" questioned Elrond. Before he could react further, Erestor was all over him. Weary and tired, he submitted to his pleas. Erestor makes him happy and his worries go away. This will be their first night together in Lorien.
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"Elladan."
Haldir and Elladan quickly ran to the bed after hearing the scream.
"Wake, Aurwen. You are having a bad dream," coaxed Haldir but to no avail. I was still screaming.
"She is not waking, Haldir. What should we do?" asked Elladan, concern shown in his eyes. "Has this happen before?" continued Elladan, arching a brow.
Haldir nodded his head. "However, this is the first time I have ever heard her scream," Haldir said, while still trying to calm me down. "She has a gift, Elladan, the gift of sight, and I think she has one right now."
Not knowing what to do, Elladan let his instinct guide him. He lay himself next to me and held me in his arms. Gently caressing my head, he whispered into my ear. "Aurwen, I am right here. Wake, Aurwen, it is only a dream." He repeated several times more before I finally calmed down. Just to be sure, Elladan held me for a little while longer. It was quiet again, as I went back to my tranquil sleep.
Surprised at what he saw, Haldir broke the silence. "You did well, Elladan. You have managed to calm her down," said Haldir as he reached over to stroke my hair. "Peace, my daughter," whispered Haldir. Turning over to Elladan, he continued, "I wonder what she saw, in order to cause such trauma?"
"Well, we can always ask her tomorrow morning," replied Elladan, as he looked at the sleeping figure next to him. "I best leave now. It has been a long day," said Elladan, as he slowly eased himself up from the bed. Placing his hand on Haldir's shoulder, he said, "We will address this issue, Haldir. Do not worry, my friend."
Haldir nodded. "Thank you again, for everything, Elladan. You are truly Lord Elrond's son. You have your father's healing instinct and I will see you tomorrow," said Haldir before bidding Elladan goodnight at the door. Heading back into the chamber, Haldir decided to stay with me tonight, fearing that the nightmare will rouse yet again. He lay himself onto the bed as gentle as he could, not wanting to wake me. Hearing the calmness in my breathing, he slowly drifted to sleep.
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The bright glare of the morning sun, roused Haldir from his sleep. 'I have forgotten how bright it can be in the morning, in Aurwen's chamber'. He then turned to check the sleeping form beside him. Seeing that I was still asleep, he gingerly slid out from his side of the bed. Grabbing my weapons along, he exited the chamber. He crossed the hallway into his chamber. Changing into his hunting outfit, Haldir left his room and headed to the gathering hall. Upon reaching the archway, Rumil caught up with him.
"Where were you, my brother? I went to see you late last night, in your chamber but you were not there," questioned Rumil.
"I was at Aurwen's chamber. She had a nightmare and not wanting to risk further injury, I spent a night there," answered Haldir. "You do know, that she is coming along?" Haldir said, eyeing his brother questionable look.
Concerned over a possible risk of attack, Rumil nodded. "Is that her bow?" asked Rumil, glancing over to the bow, in Haldir's hand.
"Indeed. I want to make sure it works fine before we head out. There is no room for error Rumil, and I am afraid for her, as she does not have the experience," said Haldir. "I hope I have made the right decision, to have her come along. I just have this uneasy feeling, that something is bound to go wrong," Haldir said, hanging his head low.
"Look at me, Haldir," urged Rumil, as he placed both his hands on Haldir's shoulders. "All will be fine. We are all there to see her through. Have faith in the Valar."
All Haldir could do was nod his head.
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"Hey Aurwen!" hollered Dunhirion from the balcony. "Wait up." Running as fast as he could, he made it down the stairway within seconds. "Where.do.you think.you are going?" asked Dunhirion, between breaths, after seeing me dressed in my hunting outfit.
Smiling at his usual silly antiques, I waited for him to catch his breaths before answering. "What I am about to tell you, will make you envious, Dun. Are you ready?" I asked, taunting him further. "I am following my father to a hunt." There, I said it.
"What! This is not fair, Aurwen. Your father knew, how much I wanted to be in that hunt and he is allowing you to follow? This is favouritism at work, you are after all his daughter," said Dunhirion, anger and jealousy shown in his face.
I felt so bad for making him angry but I could not help it. I was overly excited myself, about the hunting trip. Reaching for my dagger, I unclasped the leather bind and drew it out. "Adar, gave this to me," I said as I handed the dagger over to Dunhirion. "It was supposed to be my birthday gift."
"It is a beautiful piece of work. Your father must have this planned out," said Dunhirion as he further inspected the dagger. Being an artist, he values the craft work and the details. "Looks like the work of a dwarf; then again, I could be wrong, as elves are great craftsmen too," added Dunhirion before handing back the dagger to me.
Looking at the level of the sun, I could tell that it was time to go. We ended up carrying our conversations while we walked to the gathering hallway.
"I saw you with the Prince, yesterday evening. How is he like, Aurwen?" asked Dunhirion.
"Well," I paused, hiding a smile, "He is what Adar have described; noble, reputable and an excellent archer."
"So, you were at the shooting range yesterday," Dunhirion offered. "I guess, there is an advantage being Haldir's daughter. Did you learn anything from him?" he questioned further.
"Indeed, Dun. Although, we did not meet at the usual place, when I took pointers from him," I said, before quickening my pace.
"Wait, Aurwen!" hollered Dunhirion, as he tried to catch up. "What else did you do?"
"Nothing," I replied. At the same time, I saw the twins waiting at the hallway. Excitement took over and I sprinted down the remaining stretch of the hallway to greet them.
When we got there, Dunhirion was breathing hard from the sudden sprint and so was I. "Remind me.not to do this.in near future," said Dunhirion, gasping for breaths. "You are one crazy elf," he added.
Chuckling, I said, "You are crazier than me, you followed my very actions." Both of us broke into a laugh but it was short lived by Elladan.
"What is this laughter about?" questioned Elladan from behind. Before I could answer, he continued, "Nice to see you again, Dunhirion and how are you this morning, Aurwen?" his voice low and serious.
Dunhirion nodded his head to comply to Elladan's remark while I turned to face Elladan. His eyes showed nothing but worries. Reaching for his arm, I gently pulled him aside. With a smile, I asked in a subtle voice. "Do you have something to share, Elladan? Did something happen that I need to know about?" My icy blue meeting his bluish green.
"Nay, Aurwen. I am just tired, that is all. Forget about what I have said," Elladan answered with a weak smile. Glancing over to the horses, he asked, "Which one is your ride? I can help you ready your horse," he offered.
Looking over, I searched for my horse. "Over there, by the tree, the chestnut brown, young colt," I pointed to Elladan. "He was a gift, from Adar. He is the offspring of his horse and I named him, Andune, as he was born during sunset."
"He is a beauty," answered Elladan, smiling.
He and I walked over to where the horses were. As we neared the horses, Andune neighed, his way of acknowledging my presence. "He never fails to greet me. He is a loyal horse," I said to Elladan, smiling. "Elladan, have you seen my bow and quiver?" I asked, as I looked at him. "They are missing and I was sure I had them with me, when you walked me back to my chambers yesterday."
Surprised at my question, he shook his head. "I remembered helping you with your quiver, as it was heavy. I left it all in your chambers. Have you check with your father?" Elladan offered.
"Nay, Elladan. I have not seen him since last night. He was not at the breakfast table either," I said, still baffled over my missing bow and quiver. "Did you see him this morning?" I asked nonchalantly.
"Nay, Aurwen. I am sure your father holds the answer you are looking for. We will have everything sorted out, before we ride out," Elladan said, clutching my shoulders and giving it a gentle squeeze.
I responded by cradling his hand at the crook of my neck before turning my attentions back to Andune. I always do my usual; brushing his mane and coat on his lean, strong frame. Andune neighed, as a sign of appreciation. "I know you like it when I groom you. This will be your first trip out of Lorien too, Andune," I whispered softly to him.
Seeing that I was preoccupied with Andune, Elladan excused himself for a moment. I could see him heading back to where Elrohir stood and grab his horse's saddle. He then brought it over to his horse and began saddling it to the stallion. After completing the job, he walked back to where I was, helping me lift Andune's saddle and placed it on his back. Once the saddle was in place, he double checked his work, making sure that things were in its proper place. Satisfied, we walked back over to Elrohir and we were surprised to see Dunhirion, still there, chatting away.
"I saw Elladan helping you with the preparation," said Elrohir, smiling.
"He is very helpful, unlike you, who preferred to chat with Dun," I said, giving him a light punch to the arm. "So, what have you been sharing while the two of us were busy with our horses?" I questioned, eyes on Dunhirion.
"Nothing that concerns you, Aurwen," answered Dunhirion coldly.
Disbelieved at the tone he used on me, I was about to say something but was cut back by him.
"I was just jesting, Aurwen. Do not get mad," pleaded Dunhirion with a smile. "I was just sharing my disappointments with him, the mere fact that I did not get to go, that is all, nothing else. Honestly, I am happy for you," he said as he drew me into an embrace.
The four of use shared more, after that. I felt for him, the pain that was going through his mind. It was a blow to him, not able to join us for the hunt. I guess my safety was the only burden my father could handle. Deep within my own thoughts, I was caught off guard and someone grabbed me at the waist from behind.
"Ai!" I yelped.
"How is my princess fairing in this fine morning?" asked a familiar voice as he sank his lips to the crook of my neck and kissed it.
"Legolas," I whimpered as his lips caressed my neck. Straightening myself from the sudden show of affection, I continued, "I am fine. This is my best friend, Dunhirion, and Dun, this is Legolas," I said, as the two got acquainted.
Legolas has his grip back on my waist after exchanging handshakes with Dunhirion. With my back to him, I lay my head back and let it rest lazily on his chest. He responded by kissing my head and nuzzling his cheek on it.
"Ahem," came a voice from behind.
"Adar," I squealed, breaking away from Legolas. "How long have you been observing?" I asked, sounding a little angry.
"Long enough to see what I want to see," Haldir chuckled and at the same time, glanced over to Elladan. 'Poor Elladan, trying hard to mask the feeling inside. Oh Elbereth, hear my pleas and help him through'. "I think this belongs to you," he continued as he handed over my stuff.
"My bow and quiver," I exclaimed. "I have been searching for it the whole morning. Why did you not leave me a note, letting me know, you took it?" I asked, pouting.
"I am sorry for what I did, Aurwen. I was in a hurry, and have lots to do," answered Haldir. "I found your bow to be in excellent condition and safe to accompany you, as your weapon. It is harsh out there, Aurwen and I am concerned over your well being," Haldir sighed. Looking over to Elladan, he continued, "Did you ask her about last night?"
"What about last night?" I interrupted, trying hard to mask the anger in my voice. "Adar?" I asked as I turned and face my father.
Meeting my gaze, Haldir spoke. "What do you remember about last night, Aurwen?" asked Haldir.
Thinking back, I began, "You and Elladan were there, caring for my arm. Elladan also gave some horrible concoction to drink and pillow, lots of pillow under my arm. Why?" I demanded.
"Is that all, that you remembered, Aurwen?" Haldir questioned, exchanging glances with Elladan.
"Yes, Adar," I answered, my voice escalating. "Now, are you going to tell me what is going on or not?" I asked further, gripping Legolas's hand for support.
Taking a deep breath, Haldir poured out the truth. "You were screaming last night, Aurwen, screaming Elladan's name repeatedly. Elladan knew of your secret, Aurwen. I had to tell him, he was there," Haldir expressed further.
Shocked over what he had just heard, Elrohir broke his silence. "What secret?" questioned Elrohir as he looked over to Elladan for answers.
Tightening my grip on Legolas's hand, with a big sigh, I answered, "I have the gift of sight. I only knew of it two days ago." Looking down, tears began to form around my eyes. Fighting back the tears, I continued, "As for last night, I cannot remember, Adar, if it was just a nightmare or something more. For that I am sorry," I apologised, tears running down my cheeks.
Legolas held me closer, as he felt the trembles in my grip. "It is all right, Aurwen," said Legolas in a soft murmur.
'It pains to see Aurwen crying, which is something she will never do in the open. She must be really upset for this to happen'. Haldir broke the silence. "I am sorry, if I have upset you, my daughter. I did not mean to," said Haldir, looking at me. He held his arms open and I ran into his embrace.
"I am sorry, Adar. I tried to be strong but this is too much," I sobbed away in my father's embrace. "I remembered nothing of the dream. All I remembered was waking up happy this morning, looking forward towards the hunt," I continued, still sobbing away.
"Ssshhh, Aurwen. Everything is taken care of," said Haldir as he lifted my face up. Meeting my icy blue eyes, he continued, "You will enjoy your hunt, and you will do fine," said Haldir before drawing me into another tight embrace. Parting away, he asked, "Is Andune all ready for the trip?"
Wiping my tears away, I nodded my head. "Elladan helped me. Adar," I paused, "I am sorry for being weak," I said.
"Aurwen, you are everything but weak. Always remember that," stated Haldir. "Now, let us hunt some Orcs."
tbc…….
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ola: It was a surprise to see your review here. Thanks for reading them and supporting me. I like your fic too. Troubles you say? You have got to update soon.
Catalina Rowana: cliffy are always mean. I learned that from other writers. I hope you like what I've put up.
Justine: Thank you so much for your kind words. I hope you will hang in here till the end.
Lizlego: apology accepted. I love Haldir, he is just too sweet to resist. Any idea what the word adopted is called in quenya? Anyone out there to help me? And yes, it is always fun to have the favourite blond elf (both are blond actually) a little older. Thank you so much for your wonderful words. They really do help *tsk*
B-Elanna: Thank god I wrote it correctly. You must be having too much fun. I have to be quick around you and you know that. I hope to return you your chapter soon. Sorry, I didn't keep up to my promise, been really busy.
Rachel: I hope you like what I've written so far and hope to see you hanging on to the fic.
the blind guardian: you like the dagger thing too * smiles, so happy *. Hebrew, I don't mind learning, give me that word, as it can be inspiring.
babygirl: I hope to bring you more up beat adventure. It takes me a while to get things there. I hope to have your attention till the end.
LdyRiddle: Thanks! Hunt will be soon.
Lady of Legolas: You;ve got the answer * smiles *
Meldavane: you and your ice. you have got to teach me to skate someday. I still owe you your fic. Getting to it. So sorry * pouts *
elmo: hehe….here is the update. No more spells now.
Iluvenis: I still owe you an email. I still want that bbq recipe. It's bbq season. Anyone with good bbq recipe?
Blue Eyes At Night: Hey girl, thanks for the clarification. I hope to see you update soon. Le and Legolas is just getting hotter.