Captured Heart

by Maeluiril

Haldir and his brothers find a child in the woods.

14. Winter Solstice

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

Warnings: Again, mentions of child abuse. If you don't like don't read.

~~~~~~~~I've made a banner for this story! You can find it in my profile and there is a link there to a larger version of it. Or you can just go here: www. geocities. com/ maeluiril/ chbanner. html (you have to take out the spaces for it to work.) ~~~~~~~~~

Chapter 14 : Winter Solstice

We give gifts to loved ones and friends now to symbolize the gift that the Valar gave us. Zinnia tilted her head not understanding the concept Suvel was trying to explain to her.

Why?

It is nice, it shows the others that we are thinking of them and that we care for them. The knowledge that another thinks of you in a fond way is very special is it not? Zinnia nodded at Suvel's words.

What do you give?

Anything that you wish. It is usually a gift that you think one would need or desire. For example last year I received a beautiful hair comb from your father. It was thoughtful as he knows I like to wear them. She pulled the comb from her hair and showed it to the girl. This is not the exact one he gave though they are similar. Zinnia nodded and Suvel replaced her comb. Perhaps on our next few days together we can make a list of people you would like to make something for.

What do I make? Suvel smiled at the girl.

We will think of the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

Why do I not just ask what they want and make them that. They will like the gift that way.

The gifts are supposed to be surprises, that means that the person you give them to does not know about it.

That sounds like a secret. Zinnia's tone was mistrustful.

It is not, you can tell them if you wish, there is none saying that you can not.

But they will know about it then.

Yes, and it will no longer be a surprise.

Hello! I am here to pick up a very special charge for the afternoon. They both looked over to Orophin who was walking up the stairs. Zinnia's face broke into a wide grin and she went to stand.

Zinnia. She looked back to Suvel. Give him the drawing you made for him while I gather your lessons for tonight. She nodded enthusiastically and ran to the table snatching her artwork before running to Orophin.

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Was she any trouble? Orophin only laughed at Haldir's question.

Perhaps you should go see for yourself. Orophin led him back down the stairs and to the clearing a few trees away. Zinnia was sitting in the middle of a mud puddle making hills.

You were to watch her.

I watched her run into the mud. Orophin looked to the girl. The only part of her that wasn't covered was her face, and that was only parts. There were streaks where she had touched herself.

Valar Orophin she is an orc.

But a happy one, and more to the point now that you are here, you can give her a bath. Orophin laughed at Haldir's expression causing Zinnia to look over to them.

Ada! She cried happily jumping up and running to him. Haldir had no choice but to accept the hug from the muddy girl.

Hello tinu. He smiled as she wiped her face on his tunic then looked up to him.

Come see what I am making. She grabbed his hand and pulled him toward the mud puddle.

I shall see you later toro'tinu. Haldir shot Orophin a small glare and then his face broke into a wide grin.

Say goodbye to Orophin my sweet. She stopped pulling on him and ran to Orophin wrapping her arms around his legs.

Bye Orophin.

Bye Zia, he said in a sigh patting her head.

Come on ada! She ran back over to the mud puddle.

Yes go inspect her creations, said Orophin patting Haldir's back.

Thank you for watching her. Haldir reached over and put his hands on Orophin's cheeks. You are the best brother on Arda.

You think I do not know that there is now mud all over my face?

You think I do not know that there is mud all over my back? Haldir raised an eyebrow and smiled before releasing him. I shall see you later brother. Orophin sighed walking away and wiping his face.

Look ada I made a city for the worms. She picked one of the inhabitants up to show him.

I am sure they are. . grateful for your efforts on their behalf.

Will you help me make the wall to protect them?

The wall?

Like we have here to keep the bad ones out. She sighed and sat back. I can't find enough to go on patrol like Orophin and Rúmil. She looked back down and grabbed a few. Every time I put them somewhere they go away. He smiled then laughed seeing her distressed expression.

Of course I will help. He was already muddy from having hugged her and saw no problem in becoming dirtier. What do I need to do?

We have to build a wall like this. She started piling mud up and patting it into her wall with her hands. You have to make sure that it is solid so they are safe. He nodded solemnly and started construction. Between the two of them it only took a few minutes to complete the structure. Perfect. She declared and stuck a few sticks around the circle they had made.

Does the city have a name?

I do not know. She looked to him. The worms did not tell me it. He smiled.

Perhaps they are waiting for you to name it for them. She tilted her head as if thinking that thought over.

I. . I've never named anything before. She looked back down to the dirt city and 'rescued' another inhabitant that was trying to flee. What if they do not like the one I pick. After she set it on one of the towers she looked back to Haldir.

You helped them build it, it is only fitting you help them name it. She put another small stick in one of the towers.

You helped build it too. You name it.

Let us name it together.

What do you want it to be called? Haldir looked at her and grinned.

Wiggle city? She laughed.

That is silly! He chuckled at her expression.

Then let us hear your name for it.

Nin Kemen. She nodded as she spoke and he smiled.

A very fitting name for such a fine and noble city. She smiled at him. Now come we must wash off before we can go home.

Do I have to?

Aier you are more mud than flesh, yes you must. We both must. He wasn't sure if her aversion to bathing was tied to her past or the simple fact that she didn't like to do it. His own brothers had the same dislike of soap when they were younger.

I like the mud though, it is fun. To prove her point she held a hand full up and squeezed letting it seep out between her fingers.

Yes, it is at that. Agreed Haldir. However we have other things that must get accomplished today.

I know! Suvel gave me letters to practice.

Yes I saw them. One thing he never had to fight her on was the lessons that Suvel would give her. She seemed to enjoy learning and was curious enough to be interested in it. They had to start from the beginning as she had no schooling in the past but she was bright and doing well.

Then let us go for a swim to wipe the mud off.

Swim is just another word for bath. Her displeasure showing on her face.

Swimming is done for fun, bathing is done for sanitation. There is a difference. He looked at her a moment as she kept patting the mud. I will teach you if you do not know how. If that is your want.

I want to learn.

Then let us go.

~~~~~~~~~

She frightened when he took her past where she could touch. Once he was able to pry her arms off him he was able to teach her how to float. After that she was more accepting and even went under the water a few times. Though her grip never loosened from him. She even made him promise to keep teaching her how to swim. He agreed only if she promised to only swim with an adult.

We are going to have to get you some more dresses aier, he said with a smile as he dried her hair with his tunic. She had gone into the water fully dressed except her slippers though he took off his outer tunic as well as shoes. Normally he would have gone in his leggings only but the girl reacted badly at seeing any undressed, even partially. As it was he left his under tunic on.

I am sorry.

What for? He turned her slowly to look her in the eye.

For making you buy me more things.

Do not be sorry for that. I wish to give them to you. It is of no trouble nor any bother. She shifted slightly and looked away from him. He had come to recognize the signs of her wanting to ask for something over the months she had been with him. What is it aier?

I. . I do not want any more dresses.

I told you it is no problem, he said with a small smile. Children are expected to go through clothing.

It.. . is not that.

Then what has you fidgeting so? She bit her lip and shifted again. Tell me I will not be angry.

Idonotwantdressesanymoreiwanttobeawarriorlikeyou. He only barely held back his laugh not wanting to let her think he was laughing at whatever she had said as he had understood none of it.

I am sorry aier but I did not understand you. Will you tell me again only slower? She looked up to him.

I do not want any more dresses because. . She trailed off.

Because of what? He brought the tunic up and wiped off her face.

I want to be a warrior like you. . so no one can get hurt anymore. He stopped his motions and looked to her. It didn't take a scholar to know she wanted to protect herself. And it is really hard to climb a tree in a dress.

Ah. He moved and sat down motioning for her to join him. She sat in front of him their knees touching. A warrior can wear a dress.

Do you wear them?

No, he said in a small laugh. I do not, but I am not the only warrior in these woods.

But you are the best.

I would not say that I am the best. She cut him off.

No you are the best. She shook her head not wanting to hear his words. He smiled but let the subject drop knowing it would be no use arguing with her.

There are female warriors, you do not have to stop wearing dresses to become one.

I have never seen one.

Then we shall have to rectify that.

So I still have to wear dresses?

If it is your want not to then no. Next time we go to the tailors, which judging from the state of the clothes you now have will be within a week or two, we will order you tunics and leggings.

Well. . maybe one dress. . but I want to be like you and uncle Rúmil and uncle Orophin. I do not want to be weak anymore!

You are not weak because you wear a dress. She looked to him. You are not weak at all aier, you are very strong.

I. . I could not stop anything I wanted to stop though. Tears started in her eyes and she looked down ashamed.

No, you could not have. He moved forward and held his hand out knowing from experience it was better to have acceptance before touching her when she was in such a state. Her hand moved to his with only the barest amount of hesitance. I spoke of the strength you have within you, not physical. Physical strength takes time to grow, just as your body does. There was no way you could have stopped what happened to you. It was not possible.

You could have stopped it. Her tone was almost bitter.

If I had been in your position as I am now, yes I could have stopped it. Her head hung a little lower and he tightened his grip on her hand fractionally. Aier, but if I had been in your position at your age I would not have been able to. I would have been just as defenseless as you. He could see the hint of disbelief in her eyes when she looked back up to him.

You still would have stopped it.

How? She shrugged her shoulders slightly. You are a child my sweet. He moved forward to wipe the tear off her cheek but held his hand until she moved to it. Adults are supposed to protect children from harm not cause them such. There was silence for a few moments. Know that you did everything that you could, never think that you did not. I am very proud of you. I do not think that I would have been able to do what you did in your position.

What did I do?

You stood up to your fear. A fear that had been taught and enforced since you were born. You faced him, you faced him and you won. You survived.

I could not save Alar. I could not save my mother.

No, and I wish I had an answer for you of why they had to die, but I do not. I can tell you that it was not your fault. It could not have been expected of you to protect others, you were in no position to do so.

I wanted to though. I wanted to protect them. I wanted to save them. She sighed and closed her eyes leaning forward into him a little more. But I could not. I. . I want to be able to protect from now on. I want to be. . She trailed off not sure what she wanted.

Safe? She nodded.

I do not want to be afraid any more.

You think warriors are not afraid? She shook her head no. That is false, we can get very scared when facing our enemies. He smiled at her expression. What makes warriors strong is their ability to face that fear and fight in spite of it. You are already a warrior.

If I am a warrior then where are my weapons?

Your determination and spirit are you weapons where my bow and sword are mine. She sniffed and wiped her eyes.

I still want leggings. Haldir smiled.

And you shall have them. He dried her face off a little more before standing. Now come we must get back home.

Do I have to take a bath tonight? I was already in water. He smiled as he stood.

Yes, as I told you before. He heard her sigh as she stood as well ringing out her dress.

Why do you not take baths all of the time?

I take mine before I wake you, he said with a small laugh. Though I will be having one before bed tonight as well. He smiled when she ran up and grabbed his hand as they headed towards home.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

What else did you learn today?

Well, Suvel told me a few more stories and then helped me to read a little more. Then we started writing and I spilled ink all over the table, but she said that it was fine because a school table without ink on it is like a cookers apron with no flour. She looked up to him pausing from her work. That means it is good because it shows that the person is working real hard.

Ah, thank you for clarifying. She nodded and looked back down to her paper missing Haldir's smile.

Then we walked and after that she let me draw. I do not have a picture for you today because I made one for Orophin. She looked back up. You are not mad are you?

No, Orophin needs more art in his home besides. Zinnia laughed.

That is what Suvel said. Looking back down to her letters she continued talking. I drew him a picture of a bird I saw on my walk. He liked it. He said it was very colorful.

What color was the bird?

Well it was yellow, but I thought it would look better if it was red, yellow and purple so that is how I drew it. Why be one color when you can be a bunch?

A good question.

Yes, so I drew the bird how it should have been colored. Then I was thinking that maybe the tree wanted different colors too.

Most likely, what color were those?

The leaves were blue and the bark was a mix of blue and green.

It sounds colorful.

Oh it was. She nodded and finished tracing the letter she had been working on. Suvel also told me the story of Winter Solstice. She said that it is trad.. tradi.

Tradition.

Tradition that gifts are given to friends and family.

It is.

Then she said that you are not supposed to tell them because it is a surprise, but that sounds like a secret to me. She paused watching him obviously seeking guidance on the matter.

A surprise is not a secret because you can tell all but who the surprise is for.

So I could tell you what I will be giving others?

Yes, and you could tell them what you are going to give me.

But I do not know what to get anyone. Suvel said we are going to make a list and then she will help me make the presents for everyone.

It sounds as if your days will be filled.

I was thinking that I would give Rúmil a poem. He gives me so many. She looked up to him. Would he want that?

I am sure that he would. Rúmil loves all poetry.

It will not be as good as his, or what he reads in his books.

How do you know that is truth? Have you written a poem before.

No.

I am willing to bet that Rúmil will love your poem because you put so much thought and time into it. That is the true meaning of Winter Solstice my sweet. The thought you give the person as you pick or make their present. Not what it is. Rúmil will love anything you make him, as will Orophin, as will I or anyone else you give a gift to. She nodded slowly and turned back to her writing thinking of what she wanted to give everyone.

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Celeborn was on his normal afternoon stroll. Over the centuries it had become a well-ingrained routine to do such after council. It helped him work out any problems he had but it also helped him to relax and refresh after what was usually a boring and tedious affair. All of the inhabitants of Lórien had learned of this routine over the years and respected his want for solitude keeping off his normal path. All but one it seemed as he heard the soft sobs.

He paused a moment and then turned following the sounds. He found the youngest resident of his woods huddled against a tree looking in her hands at something. Debating on if he should approach her or find Haldir he watched for a moment. Making up his mind he took a few steps towards her and made some noise so she would hear him. Her head snapped up and looked to him the tears running down her face.

What is wrong youngling? she sniffed and held up a stick that had hair tied to the end of it. He moved around in front of her and it was then he saw the chunk of her hair missing from her head and the scissors sitting next to her.

It does not work.

What does not work? he asked quietly sitting in front of her.

I wanted to make ada a present he would love.

And what is it you are trying to make? She started crying more.

"I can't do it." She threw it down. "I knew I couldn't and now he'll be angry because I can't."

"He will not be angry." Celeborn picked up the stick she had thrown down and inspected it. "A little surprised at your new look but not angry."

"I wanted to give him something special for Winter Solstice, but I can't."

"Perhaps if you explain your reasoning to me we can come to a solution to this problem together." She sniffed and wiped her eyes along the sleeve of her dress.

"Ada likes to paint and I do too, I borrowed his brushes and now they are all bent. I tried to fix them but they were still bent. He said he didn't mind but I heard his sigh, I know he did." She sniffed again. "And then I heard uncle Rúmil say how those were expensive because they were made from someone's real hair and not from a horse."

"So you wanted to make him new ones to replace them." She nodded.

"That doesn't look like a paint brush though." She pointed to the attempt she had made. Celeborn had to admit that no, it did not. It looked more like a twig with hair tied to it. He didn't have the heart to tell her that though.

"It was a very solid attempt." He looked back to the girl. "Do not be sad, I'll have you know that the person that made Haldir's brushes before had many, many years of practice. His first brushes were not how his last ones were."

"But now he'll know." She touched her hair where she had cut out the portion she had tied to the twig. "He'll know and it won't be a surprise and he won't like it. And I don't have anything for him and solstice is in less than a week." She started crying again and Celeborn frowned.

"Do not cry, all is not lost."

"But I don't have a gift for ada!"

"You have gifted him with more than you know." She looked up to him not understanding his meaning. "Now, I told you I would help you find a solution, and I think I have one. Come, we shall have your ada a fitting gift." He stood and held out his hand. She looked to him as if debating something and then gathered her supplies standing as well. "Come little one." He smiled at her and she took his hand before walking off.

"Where are we going?"

"To a crafters."

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What has happened to your hair? Zinnia looked up to Haldir and bit her lip. After they had left the crafter's shop Celeborn had taken her and cut her hair so it was even. Now it just reached above her shoulders.

It is a surprise not a secret. She looked up to him and squared her shoulders. Lord Celeborn knows but he promised not to tell anyone else. Haldir looked to Celeborn.

It is truth I gave my word. Celeborn smiled as both watched Zinnia let go of his hand and ran to her room.

I hope she did not bother you. Haldir looked back to Celeborn.

Not at all, she was good company. Haldir was about to say something else but Zinnia ran back out thrusting one of her paintings at Celeborn.

See I drew you and Lady Galadriel. Celeborn smiled then chuckled looking to the painting.

I have green hair?

Well no, but I thought you would look good with it.

Ah, I believe Galadriel would like her hair. Pink is one of her favored colors.

You can have it if you wish.

Such a treasure, I shall keep it always. Zinnia smiled at him and leaned forward wrapping her arms around his legs as she could not reach his waist.

Thank you.

You are welcome. She turned to Haldir.

Ada can lord Celeborn stay for dinner? Haldir flushed slightly at the thought of having his lord eat with him. It was not unusual to find Haldir sharing a table with his Lord and Lady though it was normally theirs. You can only have desert if you eat everything on your plate though. Even the nasty things. She made a disgusted face causing both Haldir and Celeborn to laugh.

He is welcome if he would care to. She looked up to Celeborn hopefully.

It would be a pleasure.

After her bath, which she had unsuccessfully tried to deal her way out of, they had dinner. Zinnia chatted happily as she normally did telling Haldir of her day then asking of his. She was drilling Celeborn on his day when Haldir got them all desert. The only time she was quiet was when she was chewing her food. Neither of them minded though.

You have to wash your plates. I will show you how.

I will do his Zinnia, said Haldir flushing again as Zinnia was trying to tug the lord of Lórien to the washbasin to do his dinner dishes.

But you said one should always do their dishes and clean after themselves. She looked to Haldir and blinked.

Yes, but he is a guest in our home. He was invited, as such he does not have to do his dishes. Celeborn laughed at the confusion written across her features.

Then let me offer my services. Zinnia smiled.

You wash them over here. She grabbed her plate and glass walking to the kitchen area.

My Lord you do not.

Haldir do you think me so incapable that I cannot wash my own dishes?

No, said Haldir with a sheepish grin.

Honestly I do not mind Haldir. She seems much improved from the child I had first met was it almost a year ago?

Yes, we found them in march. Haldir looked over to the girl scrubbing her plate then back to Celeborn pitching his voice lower. She still has nightmares, and sometimes other things will set her off. Though for the most part she is overcoming her grief.

That is good news to hear.

Come on, the sooner these get done the sooner we can go over my lessons and then draw before bed. She reached over the table and grabbed Celeborn's plate. I will take this you bring your glass. Celeborn smiled and did as he was bid.

The night passed quietly as both Celeborn and Haldir helped her with the work that Suvel had assigned her. Celeborn was content to sit back and watch as Zinnia took the book she had been working through and climbed up on to the chair Haldir was sitting on situating herself in the small space left open to her. Haldir gave him an apologetic look but Celeborn only grinned and shook his head telling him it was fine. It reminded him of his Celebrían. She used to love to read on his lap. He missed his child.

It didn't take her long to read through her assignment Haldir helping her on the tougher passages. After that she put the book away and grabbed her pencils and paper keeping herself occupied as Haldir and Celeborn talked over a game of chess. Every now and then she would show them her drawing before starting a new one. The visits became more infrequent and by the time they had finished their game she was asleep her head on the table a pencil still in her hand.

I believe this is the latest she has ever remained awake. Haldir gently pulled the pencil out of her hand and picked her up.

I am not tired ada. She yawned as she spoke and put her head on his shoulder closing her eyes again. Haldir chuckled and looked to Celeborn.

I shall return in a moment.

Take your time Haldir. Celeborn smiled as Haldir nodded and turned going into the room that Celeborn knew used to be Haldir's office. Turning his attention back to the drawings that Zinnia had made his smile grew. Many of the ones she had created tonight she had given to him to keep or given to him to take to his wife. He smiled again looking at a particularly colorful rendition of what he assumed to be was some animal, though he wouldn't be able to name it without the child's help.

She should sleep peacefully tonight. Haldir moved over and started clearing the table. Her new haircut has nothing to do with any sort of trouble I trust. Celeborn chuckled.

No trouble. Haldir smiled and shook his head. Do you regret it? Haldir looked up from gathering the many colored pencils putting them back in their container. Taking her in, I saw your hesitance.

At first, yes. He sighed and set the container down reclaiming his seat. I was scared I could not give her what she needed.

What of now?

I have no regrets, and I am glad that I did not listen to my self-doubts and abandon her to another. Even if it means I no longer hold the position I had worked for, I enjoy caring for her. He refilled Celeborn's wine glass before his own. In fact I may be a bit over eager. There are no more places to hide all of her gifts. Celeborn grinned over the rim of his glass.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You must sit still aier. Zinnia wiggled again causing him to have to stop his motions on her hair. Your braids will be crooked.

I want to give Suvel her gift first! He smiled and righted her head before finishing her braids. She practically shot out of his lap when his hands left her running to grab the correct gift from her bed. Then we have to give this one to Lord Celeborn, this one to Lady Galadriel. As she recited her list again and he chuckled having heard it enough over the past weeks to have memorized it himself.

First you must put your shoes on.

Oh. She ran to her closet and came back out with her slippers on. They had planned on meeting his brothers for dinner and to exchange gifts among each other then. The rest of their day was going to be spent giving her many gifts to all of the people on her list. How am I going to carry everything? His eyes ran over all of the things on the bed with a small grin.

It seems that every elf she knew was going to get something. Most were nothing more than rolled up parchment carefully tied with colorful ribbon. Drawings or paintings she had made. He knew the real question she should be asking was how was she going to carry all of her presents back. He also knew she had no idea that would be the case.

I think I have the perfect solution. Twenty minutes later found Haldir o' Lórien, his travel pack once again on his back. Only this time instead of being filled with various supplies needed for survival at the boarders it was filled with the creations of the child tugging him through the woods.

Five hours later Haldir's pack was just as full though now they were from gifts that had been given to Zinnia and a few were his own as well. Almost every place they had stopped she had gotten one type of sweet or another. The result was a very full, very hyper child running circles around him as they headed back to their home. She was carrying something Celeborn had given her. It was a gift of some sort wrapped in a dark blue fabric. When he asked why she hadn't opened it she only said that it was a surprise and continued her hyperactive movements.

After they returned home it took some convincing but he got her to play with her new toys in the main room while he readied the dinner. She had received a few puzzles that had captured her attention immediately. The puzzle box she was playing with at the moment would keep her occupied for hours if she let it. And judging from the intense look of concentration on her face she would.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Do you like it?

Very much. She looked up to Orophin. What is it?

A way to torture his brother even when he is not around. Orophin shot a warning glare to Rúmil.

Do not listen to him. I chose it for you because you love the music. It had only been after he started making it that he realized the secondary benefit of being able to annoy his brother without being close enough for Haldir to retaliate. It is a recorder, an instrument, he said looking back to the child on his lap.

I can make music now! Orophin grinned at the excitement in her voice.

Yes, here in this book are a few well-known songs that are well suited to learning. Each note here is numbered and matches a hole on your recorder.

I am sure that uncle Orophin will be more than happy to give you lessons and help you with your playing. Orophin grinned at Haldir.

Of course I would. He looked back to Zinnia and helped her wrap her hands around it correctly. Now blow on it. Zinnia took a deep breath and did as she was told resulting in a loud screeching noise all of the elves winced at. Not so hard aier.

The thoughtfulness you display is astounding brother. Orophin only smiled at Haldir's comment.

Look here little blossom. He moved her attention down the side of it. Can you read it?

To my n. . ne. . neese. . niece! she looked up to him and he smiled nodding at her to continue. Who br. . brings. she looked up to him. Will you read it to me? I want to know what it says now! Orophin grinned at her.

To my niece, who brings laughter and joy to all who know her.

It really says that? She looked up to him from inspecting the inscription.

Yes, it does for it is truth.

Thank you uncle Orophin.

You are more than welcome. I look forward to teaching you. She smiled and hugged him clutching the recorder in one of her hands.

And I do not think you will be a bad teacher. Orophin chuckled.

Thank you.

Uncle Rúmil said that you would not be able to teach a fish to swim, a plant to grow, or the sun to rise.

Did he? Orophin looked to Rúmil who only toasted him and drank some wine.

Yes, but I do not think he meant it.

Why is that?

He was trying to cook by one of your recipes at the time. She leaned forward to whisper though all heard her. He forgot to add the flour. He said you taught him how to cook.

I attempted. Corrected Orophin with a smile as Haldir chuckled and Rúmil reddened.

Zia perhaps you should give Orophin his present now and then give Rúmil his?

Oh yes! She jumped off her lap at Haldir's suggestion and ran into her room.

Zinnia. Haldir's tone held a warning.

I know ada do not run with Orophin's present. Orophin looked to Haldir and raised an eye but he only smiled at him. She came back out walking though all could see the itch in her step to run. This one is yours. She put a wrapped bundle in Orophin's lap then turned to Rúmil.

Then this is mine? She nodded and handed it to him then crawled up on the couch between him and Haldir. Who should open their present first?

I believe Orophin, said Haldir with a smirk. Orophin shrugged and pulled the ribbon off the fabric revealing the contents.

They are. . . beautiful. Zinnia smiled as Orophin held up the arrow. The shaft was painted a multitude of colors in stripes with other designs added along it. The fletching was dyed as well. The ones on this particular arrow were pink though inspecting the others he saw a rainbow of colors.

Ada helped, he made them after I painted them.

They are wonderful, much better than the plain ones. Zinnia smiled and nodded enthusiastically. At that moment he didn't care at the fact that the others in his patrol group would tease him mercilessly. I will have to take good care of them in the field.

So you will take them? Ada said you might wish to keep them for display.

Yes they are worthy of that, perhaps I will choose a few to leave behind, but at least one will go with me every rotation. She smiled at him even more and he couldn't help but respond. Now allow Rúmil to open his present before he bursts. She looked to Rúmil her pleasure at Orophin's reaction still obvious on her face.

Then it is my turn. She nodded. Perhaps first you would like your gift from me. He reached down into his cloak pulling out a stuffed dear with a bright blue ribbon tied around it's neck.

A dear. she said happily and reached for it.

A dear for my dear one. Rúmil smiled as she hugged it.

His name is Baru. Haldir smiled at the pleasure on her face and the sureness of her tone.

A most fitting name. She grinned at Orophin and nodded.

Now open yours. Her attention shifted back to Rúmil though her grip didn't loosen on her new toy.

What is it? asked Rúmil as his hands started untying the material.

A surprise! He chuckled, more for her tone of complete and total annoyance than her answer.

A surprise, perhaps I should try to guess what it is. He looked at it for a moment. Could it be a horse?

Uncle Rúmil!

Then not a horse. A new pair of boots?

Valar Rúmil stop torturing the child and open the gift. Orophin laughed as he spoke seeing the look on Zinnia's face.

Yes stop torturing me!

Very well dear one. Rúmil laughed and finished pulling the covering off the small bundle.

I made it all myself, even the frame. I only glued it to the table once. The pride she held in that statement was easy for all to hear.

You wrote this?

For you. She nodded and looked to him.

It is lovely Zinnia, a masterpiece.

As good as the ones in your books? He grinned and hugged her.

Better. She hugged him back and Orophin laughed at the two.

You have more presents blossom.

I do? Her head popped up excited and Rúmil grinned.

Yes, your ada has them.

Ada? Haldir laughed at her expression and held up another present.

A few more. She shifted taking the gift from Haldir then moved to the floor before opening it.

More paint! she started opening the lids looking at the colors. Haldir chuckled and got her attention by putting another present in front of her. She grinned and grabbed it pulling the covering off carefully but eagerly.

Is something wrong aier? She had frozen at opening the box.

It. . it's a sword. When she looked up to him he saw the mix of fear and astonishment in her eyes. Not understanding the reasoning he frowned a little.

You wished for one did you not? A trainee needs a sword to practice with. This one is wooden, when you know the basics we will replace it with. He grunted cutting off the rest of his words as she jumped on him wrapping her arms around him. Relaxing he smiled and put his own arms around her. Rúmil and Orophin only smiled at the display.

Thank you. Her grip tightened on him and his smile grew.

You are more than welcome aier. She pulled back and looked at him.

I am going to be a warrior.

I have told you that you already are, but yes, you will learn sword skills. And though it will ruin the surprise of your final gift, archery as well. She practically squealed as she hugged him again.

You are the best ada ever! Her declaration was accompanied by a sloppy kiss on his cheek. Haldir blushed slightly but grinned happily at her words.

I am glad you think so my sweet. She jumped off him and grabbed the sword from the box.

Look! Look! Orophin gently grabbed the excited child's wrist before she could follow through on the swing that would have broken his nose, or at the very least hurt considerably.

A beautiful sword for a beautiful warrior. He grinned at her while lowering it as she redden then giggled at his words.

I have leggings now too!

Yes we saw them dear one. Rúmil grinned.

Would you like your bow? Haldir held up the bow that he had made for her.

Yes! I even got an arrow holder. The others laughed.

A quiver is what holds your arrows.

I do not have any arrows. Haldir smiled at her as he helped her put it on.

Not until you know the basics of the bow.

Oh, then you can put Baru and my recorder in there. She handed him the items and turned so he could place them in the quiver. And a quiver for my sword?

A sheath for your sword a quiver for your arrows. He turned her around and started buckling the sheath around her waist. There now you are the perfect image of a warrior trainee. She beamed at him and put her sword back in its sheath.

Now I get to give you your present. She turned and went back into her bedroom. When she returned she was carrying the same blue wrapped box that Celeborn had given her earlier in the day. I helped with it but I did not make it. Lord Celeborn said that it was still from me because I tried to make them but I did not have the right skills and it was more the thought that went into a gift than who made it. She set the box in his lap.

That is a true statement. He examined the box briefly before he started pulling the material off of it to reveal the wood the box was made of. It had many decorations and his name largely emblazoned across it. The script was familiar to him as he had helped Zinnia with her letters enough to know her writing. He looked up to her and she smiled slightly.

I helped decorate the box.

It is wonderful thank you. She laughed.

You have to open it ada.

There is more? The box is a fine gift in and of itself. He smiled at her and opened it though. Immediately he realized why her hair was shorter. Reaching up he moved his fingers down one of the brushes tracing the small sliver stars that were painted on the deep blue handles. The inside of the box was painted as well and in her script on the top of the box was the phrase 'Amin Mela Lle Ada.'

Do you like it? He looked up to her and smiled.

I love them tinuamin. Leaning forward he put his hand on her cheek. The best gift I have ever been given. She smiled at him.

Good, now come help me with my puzzle.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ada? Haldir finished pulling the sleeping gown over her head and laid her down on her bed.

Yes my sweet? She yawned.

When are we giving everything back?

What do you mean? He asked confused. He pulled the blankets up to her shoulders and placed Baru under her arm. She turned on her side looking at him with heavy lidded eyes.

Now that everyone knows that what I gave them was worthless and they bought expensive things they're mad right?. Will they want it back tomorrow? Can I stay up and play with the puzzle again if they do? He frowned realizing that she had misunderstood.

What you gave was not worthless.

But it did not cost anything for me I did not give as good as they gave me. Her eyes started to drift shut again.

Worth is not determined by money price Zinnia. You put thought, time, and effort into everything you gave. That makes those presents beyond price. A small frown found its way to her face and he knew that she was still struggling with the concept. Do you want the gifts you gave back?

No. She opened her eyes wide and looked to him. I gave them to everyone because I wanted to. Because I was thinking of them and thought they would like it.

That is how all that gave you gifts feel, no mater what they received from you in exchange.

But they spent so much money. Why?

They did so because they could. They bought for you and gave you what they did because they thought that you would like it. They wanted show you that they were thinking of you as you wished to show you were thinking of them.

Then why did they buy me something instead of drawing me a picture? He smiled and started taking her braids out.

Would you have preferred a drawing? There was a pause and he looked to her thinking she had fallen asleep.

I really like everything I got. I have never had a puzzle before. Or pants, or toys, or any of it. He smiled at her softly.

Then enjoy your presents and worry not for anything else. Sleep with the knowledge that everyone you gifted today loved the present that you gave them. He leaned over and kissed her forehead. Perhaps later this week we can work on shelves to put all of your toys on.

Ada. He looked back to her.

Yes?

I know . . well I know that I'm not allowed any more. . but. . just tonight. . until I fall asleep. . will you stay with me.

Of course I will stay with you, let me go get a chair. She grabbed his hand a little tighter stopping him from leaving.

No, on the bed. He looked to her.

Only tonight. She nodded and grinned. And only until you fall asleep. She moved against the wall and he laid down next to her above the covers. He settled but she was unsatisfied with the arrangement and moved his arm so she could put her head on his shoulder. She shifted again and her hand went to his chest settling over his heart trapping Baru between the two of them. Good night ada. She smiled and snuggled closer to him.

Dream well my sweet. He stayed with her for a few more hours though she was asleep before he finished speaking.

===============

ada = father

tinu = daughter

toro'tinu = niece (toro' = brother tinu = daughter) literally brother daughter.

Arda = Earth (world)

Nin Kemen = Wet Earth (Nin = Wet Kemen = earth as in soil)

Baru = brown (name of the stuffed dear)

Amin mela lle ada = I love you father

Tinuamin = my daughter

A/N: Wow this chapter was looooooong! I probably could have split it up into two but I wanted to keep the whole thing together. The next chapter is probably just as long. . still working on it and hope to have it up shortly after thanksgiving. Have to see how family/work/shopping goes. Hope everyone has a great turkey day as well!

As always I hope you enjoyed this chapter as all the others. The reviews submitted to me have been great! Thank you so much for everyone who takes the time to submit one. And thanks to everyone else for reading the story! The rest of this note is just to explain why I am doing this particular holiday and not a birthday. If interested read on! Also just to plug myself again I made a banner for the story. The url is at the top of the page.

I have decided not to do a birthday for two reasons. One, I think after thousands of years elves would tend to not hold the same significance as humans would. And though Zinnia is human the ones raising her are not. Two, I wanted to write the Winter Solstice idea. They would be too similar to write both and I had to pick one. This is the one I picked. I thought having to deal with Zinnia both giving and accepting presents would be much more interesting.

As far as any of the holidays that I am going to have the elves celebrate they will have more of a pagan spin than Christian. They were not Christian, they believed in the Valar, which were about 14 Lords and Queens of the Valar. I think that with their relationship to nature they would be more likely to celebrate with the seasons as in most pagan religions besides.

Now I only took the names and the most general meanings not the traditions or feelings/spiritual meanings behind the holidays. Those I will make up and will give my own meaning to. For example, gift giving on Winter solstice. As I am not Pagan and do not celebrate that holiday, therefore I do not know if giving presents is part of the Winter Solstice celebration. I hope I have not offended any, as it was not my intention. I simply didn't want to put Christmas in there, as it is in no way shape or form a holiday that would have been celebrated by the elves or even the humans of middle-earth.