**Chronicle of the Fourth Age, Part 11**
Upon Haldir's return from Ithilien, he made arrangements for a private family outing in the hills. After breakfast, he brought Miranda to the stables where her children were already waiting. They rode out of the gates and were not seen again that day. Aragorn resumed his business in the hall and bid farewell to departing guests. Soon the hall was quiet and he needed a distraction. Aragorn left the hall and headed to the rear garden where he found Eldarion, Ẻomer and Faramir sitting under the shade of a tree.
"Good day," Eldarion said brightly.
"Quiet day," Aragorn said as he sat down by his son. He looked at Ẻomer and asked, "You're leaving tomorrow?"
Ẻomer looked at Aragorn with sympathy, "There is important business waiting for me. I can't stay longer, sorry."
Aragorn gave a nod.
"It will be quiet in Ithilien with so many leaving the wood," Faramir said. "I will miss them."
Aragorn cocked a brow, "Why, who else is leaving?"
"The sons of Elrond are returning to Rivendell to stay with Lord Celeborn. I believe Elladan's children are going with them," Faramir said.
"Yes, Miiriel said Nárello and Lalaith were returning to Rivendell," Eldarion said.
"Where have they gone today?" Aragorn asked.
"They went to make their goodbyes in private," Eldarion said.
"I will miss them all," Aragorn said. "I envy you, Ẻomer. Traveling with Miranda is a fond memory."
"Ride with us," Ẻomer said. "You have not visited in a while."
"Yes, father, go with them. I can keep an eye on things for you here," Eldarion said.
Aragorn pondered the idea and smiled as he stood. "Perhaps I will," he said and headed back inside. His smile broadened as he went in search of Arwen. "Perhaps I'll do just that."
*****
Early the next morning Ẻomer and his knights were down at the stable readying the horses. He was joined by Haldir and his son Nárello. They made short work of preparing the horses and led them to the entrance to the courtyard where Miranda, Lalaith and Izabel waited. After a final farewell to Arwen, Eldarion stepped forward and gave Miranda a hug.
"Be well, my lady," he said. "I will take good care of Miiriel."
Miranda smiled. "I know you will, son. You will be a king worthy of your father's legacy."
"Come, your cousin is waiting," Haldir said.
Miranda searched the courtyard looking for Aragorn but he never showed up. She didn't want to leave without saying goodbye, but she had no choice now. She handed Illisse up to Lalaith and mounted up. She followed Ẻomer with her family. They were joined by Elladan, Elrohir and Dairwen who rode with his son Allasseo, now four, as they passed through the gates.
Miranda's heart was heavy as they rode across the Pelennor, but up ahead, a single rider waited. She strained her eyes to see, and as they approached, she recognized Aragorn. He rode over to keep pace beside Miranda who just cocked a brow at him.
"Did you think I would let you leave without saying goodbye?" Aragorn asked.
Miranda smiled. "Not really, but… are you riding with us?"
Aragorn smiled, "I thought a little vacation might be nice."
Haldir and Nárello exchanged smiles. They knew it meant a lot to her to have him ride with them. The journey was taken at a light pace, as much for Dairwen and Lalaith's children as for Miranda's health. No one seemed to mind, and it was obvious that Aragorn was enjoying riding with Miranda again. In the evenings, around the campfire there were songs and stories. Haldir had to drag Miranda to bed every night. He knew she needed the rest. Finally they came to Edoras and Ẻomer was pleased to have them stay a few days before continuing their journey. Lothiriel planned a feast at Meduseld for their honored guests to be held the night before they planned to depart again. The next morning, the travelers broke their fast in the hall while servants prepared supplies for the trip.
"So, you'll take the Gap of Rohan?" Aragorn asked Haldir.
"I thought it best this time of year, with the children," Haldir said as he glanced over at little Allasseo sitting with Elladan.
Miranda entered the hall with Lothiriel and sat by Haldir. Aragorn sighed and offered her a warm smile.
"So, then, we are to be parted at last, sister," he said sadly. "Your absence will be felt across the land."
"But the sun will rise and set each day and spring will follow winter. Your family will grow and your land will prosper," Miranda said. "You are still my King, Aragorn."
Elladan couldn't watch their final goodbye. It was heart wrenching. He took Allasseo and headed out to help with the horses. The rest of the table quickly dispersed, and even Haldir decided to leave them a lone for a few minutes.
"I'll see you outside when you're ready," Haldir said to Miranda before he too left the hall.
Miranda sighed and Aragorn reached across the table and took her hand. "Go in peace, you have earned your rest," he said. He stood and walked her outside where everyone was ready to depart.
Ẻomer was there, and gave her a big bear hug. "I will miss you, cousin." One of his guards handed him a bundle, and he opened it. He held out a fine white mantle, trimmed and lined with fur. It was embroidered with green leaves around its collar, and he wrapped it around her and pinned it with a gold brooch. "It is winter, and the days will be growing colder." Miranda hugged him, and he helped her up on her horse. Lothiriel had given fur lined cloaks to Lalaith, Izabel and little Illisse, but none were quite as fine as the one Ẻomer gave Miranda.
Aragorn stood by as the riders prepared to leave. Miranda rode over to him and reached into her saddlebag. She pulled her sword out and gave it to him.
"You cannot give me this," he protested.
"I carried that sword in your service," she said. "I will not have that privilege again. Keep it to remember me by." She gave him a slight bow and then nodded to Haldir that she was ready to leave.
As Haldir led his family down the hill from Meduseld, Aragorn felt a lump in his throat. They passed through the gates and he looked at the sword. It was fairly small, but finely made in the forges of Lorien. He pulled the blade from its sheath and it was icy cold and frosty. He quickly sheathed it again and headed into the hall without a word.
Ẻomer turned to Lothiriel and she just hugged him. "He loves her very much," she said, "doesn't he?"
"She nearly died saving his life," Ẻomer said. "He's known her a long time." He sighed and they walked into the hall. "Why don't you break out a cask of wine? I'll see if I can't cheer him up a little."
"Isn't it a little early in the morning for that?" she asked with a smirk.
Ẻomer's face sobered and he said softly, "Not today."
*****
Travel in winter was cold, but easy going. With all the difficult partings behind her, Miranda seemed to relax a little and enjoy the journey. The New Year had already passed; making it 1452/32 as they finally rode through the trees of Rivendell. Not long after they entered the canopy they were greeted by a group of Elves.
"Hail travelers," one elf said. "Welcome home to you all."
"It is indeed good to be home," Elladan said. "We are anxious to see Celeborn. How is he?"
"He will be most pleased to see your return," the elf said. Then he turned and told one of the others to carry a message to the city.
They went with them into the city where they were warmly received. Celeborn stood on the terrace of his home, waiting for them to get through the crowd. Elladan and Elrohir were the first to greet him. He smiled warmly and hugged his grandsons.
"My heart sings to see you both," Celeborn said. "See that the family has grown."
Nárello and Izabel went up the steps and Celeborn smiled. Dairwen led little Allasseo up the steps and Lalaith carried Illisse. Celeborn dropped to a knee to receive Allasseo who practically jumped into his arms. Celeborn laughed with joy and stood with his great great grandson to look at little Ilisse. When Miranda and Haldir joined them, Celeborn looked at Miranda and smiled.
"Once again you bring joy to the Elves," he said. "Please stay with us, Hiri Nolwe."
Miranda offered him a smile, but glanced at Haldir. She wondered if he knew of their plans.
"We will stay for a while," Haldir said. "Miranda is very tired, where should we…"
"Yes, of course," Celeborn said.
A fair haired elf made showed them to a room and then brought them a meal. Elladan and Elrohir quickly settled in and went to speak to Celeborn. He poured them some wine and they walked along the terrace in silence for a while. Finally, Celeborn looked at them and asked the question he'd wanted to ask Miranda when they arrived.
"Why has she returned?" he asked.
"She is merely passing through on her way to the havens," Elrohir said.
"Why, what troubles you?" Elladan asked.
"I would go to the havens myself if she were staying in Rivendell," he said with a sigh. "But while some of our people choose to stay, I must remain to watch over them. I expected her to stay until Elessar passed."
"So had we, but she is very tired," Elrohir said.
Celeborn nodded. He was aware of the sacrifices those with the gift of light made. Few carried the gift so strongly, and those that did often suffered. "Here she will find rest for a while until she is ready to go to the havens."
*****
In the care of the elves, Miranda's headaches had stopped. She was able to sleep more peacefully and felt comfortable again. Miranda and Haldir stayed in Rivendell through the spring. It was a pleasant respite for them, and neither was in too much of a hurry to depart. The Elves were glad to have them there, and Miranda was a popular story teller, drawing elves wherever she went. Haldir loved watching her among the trees, smiling and happy. She was her old self again.
But one day, as the warm days of summer began, Miranda's pain returned. Haldir woke suddenly as Miranda lay in his arms shaking uncontrollably. Her dreams had returned with a vengeance. He gently woke her and she just sobbed.
"It has started again," he said. He wrapped her in his arms and she clung to him.
"I think it is time for us to go," she said. "Though it breaks my heart to leave. I'm sorry."
"No, my love, I have enjoyed these days here, but the sea calls to me. I will make the necessary preparations to leave," Haldir said softly. He bent down and kissed her forehead. He rose and dressed. "Stay in bed, I'll bring you some breakfast in a few minutes."
Miranda buried her head under her pillow and fought the tidal wave of visions that assaulted her. She tried to concentrate on something, anything that would block out the din. Lalaith entered the room a few minutes later with a tray.
"Here, mother," she said. "I brought you some of Aragorn's tea."
Miranda slowly sat up, and reached for her robe. She moved slowly and deliberately, but managed to keep herself on her feet. She sat at the table and sipped her tea.
"Thank you," Miranda said.
"Father said you are leaving today," Lalaith said sadly. "It seems rather sudden."
"Leave it to your father to rush things," Miranda said with a smile.
"Nay, he said he had waited too long. He was very upset when I saw him," Lalaith said.
Miranda smiled at his concern. "He worries over me. I did not sleep well last night."
Lalaith nodded and then rose to leave. "Do you need anything?"
"No, go home to your children, daughter. I will see you again when your family decides to make the journey," Miranda said.
Lalaith calmly headed out the door and down the stairs to where Nárello was speaking with their father. She just walked over to Haldir and hugged him. Haldir smiled sadly and gave her a good squeeze.
"I will miss my little girl," he said tenderly. "Always you fill my heart with joy and laughter."
"Take good care of mother," she said softly and then kissed his cheek and left.
Haldir sighed and Nárello just frowned. "I thought she was better," he said.
"She was for a while, but this morning she woke in pain. I cannot bear to see her suffer, we must go. Only across the sea will she have relief from this gift," Haldir said.
Nárello nodded and they set to work packing and getting supplies together. They were ready to depart before lunchtime, and Celeborn led Miranda down to where Haldir waited. Miranda hugged him, and thanked him for his hospitality. Then she mounted up and Haldir led her down the path toward the Shire. The Havens were just beyond, and perhaps they could spare a day to visit the Hobbits before they left.
*****
Merry and Pippin were riding their ponies on their way to visit Samwise when they saw travelers on the road. They were not Hobbits, but men riding horses. Merry frowned.
"Men are not to enter the Shire, Pip," he said. "The King's edict has never been challenged before today."
"That is because the Dunedain guard the borders and enforce it," Pippin said. "These two must have slipped through."
They watched the cloaked riders approach, and the one in front lowered his hood. Both hobbits immediately recognized Haldir.
"Hail, good Hobbits," he said with a smile. "We beg your leave to pass into the Shire and visit the good Mayor of Hobbiton."
"Hail to you, Captain, and your fair wife," Merry said. "We journey to the same destination."
Miranda rode forward and lowered the hood of her cloak and gave them a warm smile. "Merry and Pippin, how are you both?" she asked.
The foursome headed down the road together and Merry answered her. "We are well," he said. "But doubtless you knew that already."
"You haven't visited in a long time," Pippin said. "How are you?"
"I am well," she said brightly. "The sight of good friends is like sunshine after a dark storm, warm and welcome."
They rode through town, and everyone recognized them. Children followed them down the road and people came out of their houses to greet them. They arrived at Sam's house and spent a pleasant afternoon catching up on what everyone had been up to. Sam insisted they stay with him that night rather than camping outside the Shire. The next morning, Haldir rose before dawn to ready the horses.
"How long has Miranda been sick?" Sam asked Haldir as he joined him in the front yard.
"Over a year now, but you don't know that… understand?" Haldir warned.
Sam threw up his hands in resignation. "You are taking her to the Havens?"
"Yes," he admitted. "She knows she is no longer needed here."
"Well, she did like boats," Sam said. "I'm sure a sea voyage will do her some good."
Haldir smiled. He would miss the Hobbits, though he hadn't visited them often. He wondered if Frodo would be one of those to greet them when they arrived in Valinor.
They had a hearty breakfast, and Sam loaded them down with fresh vegetables from his garden. Haldir and Miranda rode out of the Shire. The journey to the Havens was short and they reached it by nightfall. There, moored by the shore of the River Lhûn, was a great swan ship. It nearly glowed in the early evening as the sun fell behind the distant horizon. Haldir led his wife down the path that brought them to the docks. A dark haired Elf greeted them.
"Hail, travelers," he said. "Who comes to Mithlond at this late hour?"
"I am Haldir of Lorien, and this is my wife, Miranda," Haldir started to say, but his voice trailed off as a number of Elves suddenly flooded the deck of the craft.
They all came to the railing to catch a glimpse of the pair on the shore. The dark haired Elf straightened up and cleared his throat.
"Welcome Guardian of Lorien and Hiri Nolwe," he said formally. "We have been expecting you for some time." He quickly gave orders for his sailors to get their passengers and their things loaded and then descended the gang plank to speak to them.
"We didn't send word that we were coming," Haldir said in confusion.
"This ship was left here to wait for you specifically," the Elf said. "I am Círdan the Shipwright. I will bring you to Valinor where your family is waiting."
Haldir gave him a respectful bow. "I thank you," he said.
"No thanks are needed. It is an honor to have you aboard," Círdan said with a smile.
He gave Miranda a bow and offered her his hand to help her aboard. The Elf captain led her up the gang plank, and when she stepped onto the deck, all the sailors bowed. Miranda blushed, and the captain laughed.
"The great Hiri Nolwe is as shy as she is fair," he said as Haldir joined her. "Come, Lord Haldir. I'll show you to your cabin." He led them to the stern and down a few steps to the crew quarters. Off to the left was a private cabin. It was small but comfortable, and their luggage was already there. The captain bid them good evening and turned to leave.
"When do you sail, Captain Círdan?" Haldir asked.
"We'll sail with the morning tide," he said. "I'll send a tray up from the galley."
Haldir nodded, and the captain left them to rest.
Miranda had already removed her cloak and sat on the bed. Haldir sat beside her and hugged her. "Soon, Melda. Soon you will be able to rest," he said.
"I am already feeling better," she said. "I think the sea air agrees with me."
Haldir knelt down and pulled off her boots and helped her undress. He knew she wasn't an invalid, but he knew she was tired. He tucked her into bed and started to undress. By the time he'd stripped down to his trousers, there was a quiet knock at the door. He'd forgotten about the tray.
He went to the door and opened it just enough to look out. "Yes?"
"A dinner tray for you and the lady," a nervous looking sailor said.
Haldir was hungry, and gave him a warm smile as he opened the door and took the tray. "Thanks," he said, and quickly shut the door. Miranda sat up in bed and he nearly dropped the tray she looked so good. She didn't have a stitch on, and the sheets had fallen to her waist.
He stared at her appreciatively, and Miranda just frowned. "Food first," she said. "I'm hungry."
Haldir crossed the room and sat beside her. They ate in silence for a moment until Haldir said, "Food first, eh?"
"Food first," Miranda repeated.
"Hmmm, then what?" Haldir asked playfully.
"Dessert," she said.
"But they didn't send us any sweets…" Haldir said in mock sadness.
"I got your sweets right here," Miranda said wickedly.
Haldir could see the mischief in her eyes and nearly groaned at the promise of pleasure she was making. He ate his dinner quickly.
*****
The next morning, Miranda and Haldir went up on deck as the ship was already headed out of the gulf of Lûhn to the open sea. The Elves were tending the riggings under the command of Círdan, and the sails swelled as they caught the wind. It was a beautiful day, and Miranda loved the feel of the ocean breeze on her face. Haldir took her up to the bow where the swan's head was and they leaned over the rail to watch the ship slicing through the water. Soon, a group of dolphins joined them, racing beside the sleek Elvish craft, leaping from the water playfully. Miranda laughed as she watched, but quickly became alarmed as the water seemed to get farther away. The ship was rising out of the water!
"Haldir, what's going on?" she asked nervously as she backed away from the rail into his arms.
"We are going home, my love," he said. "We have passed beyond the bent world and sail upon the straight road to Valinor." He led her back to the railing. "Go ahead and look," he said.
Miranda leaned over again, but didn't let go of Haldir. It was as if they were sailing on stars, and it was beautiful. She turned back to Haldir and hugged him. "The pain is gone," she whispered. "I am at peace."
*****
Back in Gondor, Miiriel woke with a start and Eldarion wrapped her in his arms. "What is it?" he asked with concern.
A tear ran down her cheek and she just said, "They're gone."
Eldarion knew she was talking about her parents. He didn't know what to say to comfort her so he just held her close. She laid her head back against his strong chest and his hands rested on her swelled belly. He smiled proudly at the little life that was growing there. He hadn't expected to be blessed with a child so soon, but he was thrilled with the surprise. His father had teased him a little, reminding him that Miiriel came from a very large family. Eldarion just smirked and said they would see if they could break the record and go for at least seven.
"Oh!" Miiriel said.
"What?" Eldarion asked with concern.
Miiriel took his hand and moved it a few inches to the left and said, "There, do you feel it?"
Eldarion felt something move, and his heart stopped. "Was that…?"
Miiriel smiled. "Your daughter just said hello," she said.
Eldarion just kissed her on the head and smiled. "A daughter!" he said proudly.
*****
Aragorn was in a dark mood. He had no reason to be having a bad day, but he was. He ate in silence, and no one bothered him. Even Arwen could see he was not himself and left him in peace for a while. When Eldarion and Miiriel came to breakfast, he managed a smile.
"How is my grandchild today?" he asked Miiriel with a smile.
Eldarion grinned, "She kicked me."
Aragorn laughed. "Good girl," he said to Miiriel's stomach as she walked by.
Miiriel sat beside him and softly said, "They have gone."
Aragorn's face instantly sobered. Now he understood his foul mood. Somehow he must have known, or felt the final loss of her light. He sighed and put his arm around Miiriel. "She needed to leave, but I thank her for leaving such a precious gift behind, daughter."
Miiriel smiled, "Thanks."
*****
It was late evening when Miranda went back up on deck to see what all the shouting was about. Captain Círdan was barking orders and the sailors were adjusting the riggings for their approach. There was land up ahead, and Miranda joined Haldir on the bow. He put his arm around her and pointed to a light up ahead.
"That would be the Tower of Avallóne, on the Island of Tol Eressea," he said. "Just beyond it is the Bay of Eldemar."
Miranda smiled. She didn't know anything about this place, but it felt like home. It wasn't long before the ship docked at Alqualonde and the sailors secured the mooring lines. Haldir led Miranda below, and they gathered their luggage to depart. When they got back up on deck, the docks were filled with Elves to greet them. Miranda shyly stepped back behind Haldir. She had not expected such a reception. Haldir just grabbed her hand and led her down the gangplank to the dock. Rûmil and Orophin pushed their way out of the crowd and greeted them.
"Brother! At last you are home," Orophin said as he hugged Haldir.
They both hugged Miranda as well, and then a very distinguished looking Elf Lord and his graceful wife stepped out of the crowd and greeted Haldir.
"Son," the woman said as she hugged him. "Long have we waited for you."
"Mother!" Haldir said. He smiled, and his father put a hand on his shoulder.
"Welcome home son," he said with a proud smile.
Haldir stepped back and put an arm around Miranda. "Father, mother," he said proudly. "This is my wife, Miranda."
Haldir's mother smiled warmly and hugged her, "Welcome daughter," she said. "You have brought my son great joy."
Miranda didn't know what to say. She knew she was blushing, and she could feel the tears threatening. But the reunion was interrupted by a familiar voice.
"Well, here already?" Gandalf asked as he joined them. "That is well, for I have missed you."
Miranda smirked at him, "No you haven't."
"Well, maybe just a little, but here is one who has," he said as a short fellow emerged from the crowd.
"Frodo!" Miranda said brightly as she ran to meet him. They hugged and then just burst into laughter.
"Well, now. How have you been?" Frodo asked.
Miranda smiled. He was much older, but he seemed well. She walked with him along the shore for a while and told him about her children and all that she'd done since he left Middle Earth. Back at the docks, Haldir watched her as he caught up on the news with his family. His mother smiled approvingly at Miranda as they talked.
"It is good to finally see her," she said to Haldir. "It took me a long time to arrange for your meeting, but the effort was well worth it."
Haldir cocked a brow at his mother, and his father just rolled his eyes. "What do you mean, mother?"
"Well, I knew those brothers of yours would never marry, and you'd never find a woman worthy of you in Lorien," she said. She glanced at Gandalf and frowned briefly. "It was difficult finding her. This one hid her well. But there, my son," she pointed to Miranda. "There is one who loves you as much as I."
Haldir smiled. He was finally home.