Captured Heart

by Maeluiril

Haldir and his brothers find a child in the woods.

16. Friends and Feasts

If you skipped over chapter 15 go back and read it!! I replaced the authors note with a real chapter. If you don't you will probably be confused.

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

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

Thanks to Mellon1 for looking over this chapter for me!

Chapter 16: Friends and Feasts

Dresses are stupid. Arwen smiled slightly.

I have grown accustomed to them, though when I was your age I used to wear tunics and leggings as well. Arwen offered Zinnia another pastry which she took and started eating. Much easier to climb trees in leggings. Zinnia nodded her head emphatically agreeing though she couldn't speak. It had taken some coaxing to get the girl in front of her to open up, but once she did there was no going back.

Do you know archery and sword fighting too? Zinnia wiped her mouth off with the sleeve of her tunic leaving a large smear of the fruit filling on her clothing before taking another large bite of the sweet she had in her hand.

Yes, my brothers taught me. The face Zinnia had made at the mention of the twins didn't go unnoticed. They are very protective and caring. Even if at times their maturity can be called into question.

Well Ada is teaching me and he is better than your brothers. Your brothers are mean and selfish. I don't like them.

At times I can say they annoy me as well. Know that they are truly sorry for what they have done. Have they not apologized to you?

They. . . tried. I do not want to hear any more lies.

They are not lying when they say they are sorry.

I do not care. Arwen held back her urge to sigh. The truth was she had not seen her brothers this distressed in a long time. She had been there when they returned from Haldir's the night before. They immediately went to spar, something they only did when highly upset or angry. If she was any judge, she would have to say that they felt ashamed of what they had done more than anything. On one hand, she was glad that the girl in front of her had stood up to them, on the other she hated to see either of her brothers in pain.

Then you do not plan on forgiving them.

They could have made me kill . . . no I am not going to forgive them because words are just words. They tricked me.

Yes but their purpose was not mean it was in jest. A poor attempt at such a thing but still in jest. They did not mean to hurt you.

They did.

Yes, they did. Know that they are hurting themselves for that very fact. I am not trying to excuse their behavior, for it was wrong, but they know that. Others have forgiven you for what you have done; perhaps you can find it in you to forgive them for what they have done. Zinnia shrugged and took another bite of the pastry. I know they have wronged you but they wish to make repairs.

I do not know if I can, they. . Hiss is my best friend. He trusts me, he let me take him, and he believes that I will protect him. He could have been hurt because of me. I promised him that I would not let any one hurt him. I could not promise Alar that but I promised Hiss and . . and. . She jumped when Arwen wiped the stray tear that had fallen off her cheek.

I am sorry aier, I forgot you do not like such things. Arwen pulled her hand back. She had been with the twins when their grandparents were scolding them. The short version of what had befallen the child next to her had been told. It had been enough.

It is not. . Zinnia sighed and finished the pastry. Arwen only smiled slightly and handed her some more water. I do not know if I can do it. What if I do and they still do something mean to me or one I love again? I do not know if I should let them near me again. Maybe I am being selfish but I am not letting someone else I love die!

You are not being selfish you are being cautious. It is understandable to feel that way after what has been done to you. Zinnia looked down to her hands and fidgeted. She didn't have the words to tell any how betrayed she felt by the two elves. How angry she was at them and how angry she was at herself for believing them. The fact that she could have gotten Hiss killed, frightened her more than anything she had known in years. Emotions were warring and she didn't like the uneasy feeling that it caused in her.

While I do not have the empathy of my Grandmother I do have some knowledge of what you are feeling. Arwen sighed slightly. I as well as the twins lost a loved one and can know some of your pain. Zinnia looked up slightly surprised. Our mother was captured by orcs. She had injuries that she could not. . that none here could heal.

Did she die?

No, no she sailed west, but was lost to us just the same. Elrohir and Elladan, they blame themselves for not finding her sooner. For not escorting her party to the city as was their normal routine.

They did not do it though. It was not their fault. Arwen smiled softly.

No. That fact does not stop them from blaming themselves though. The guilt they feel is born out of grief of loosing one that they held so dear. Their feelings of loss have given way to feelings of self-doubt and self blame. Their thoughts focus on what could have been, what if they had been there, what if this or the other.

Those thoughts hurt.

They do.

Ada says that sometimes bad things happen and there is nothing that could have been done to change them.

As my Ada told us, as is truth. Arwen held out a napkin and Zinnia took it wiping her face though most of the mess had already been wiped on her sleeve. They still think that had they been there they could have stopped our mother's pain.

Sometimes I wish that I would have died and Alar was here instead. Arwen wanted to lean forward and put her hand on Zinnia's head. She held herself back though knowing she would need to seek permission. Then when Ada and I are reading or when he is painting with me, I am glad that I am here. Does that make me bad?

No. It is normal to feel that way. Silence fell between them for a few moments.

I do not want to be bad like him. Zinnia pulled her knees to her chest and sighed. I am human but I am not bad. Even with her elvin hearing Arwen had trouble hearing that statement.

Your race does not automatically sway your actions aier.

I try to be good like everyone but I am not like them.

Your differences do not make you bad. Just as your race does not make you bad. Zinnia moved her head and looked to Arwen but put it back down on her knees.

Can you show me how to braid my hair like yours?

Yes. Arwen smiled and Zinnia returned it.

Will I have to wear a dress at the feast?

It is formal. Zinnia sighed and frowned.

Dresses are stupid just like baths.

Bathing is an important part of a daily routine.

You sound like Ada. Arwen smiled again as Zinnia leaned back and supported herself with her hands. I will try to forgive your brothers. She was looking at her feet as she started to move them so they banged together. But I can not promise that I will do more than try.

It is all that can be asked of you.

Do you think if I told Ada I would try to wear a dress, he would let me wear leggings instead? Arwen laughed.

Do you think he would let you?

No. Zinnia sighed and flopped back on the ground.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Erestor's head snapped up from his reading when he heard the ear splitting sound of wood scraping against wood. Annoyed, he slammed his book shut and stood intending to find the person making the noise and tell them to leave. He had gone to the library to find some quiet from the twins; he did not intend to put up with anyone else. Mentally he started working on some scathing comments he could use when he finally found the culprit. All of which vanished when he saw who was making the noise.

Do you require assistance my Lady? The girl jumped surprised. I am sorry, I did not mean to frighten you.

I was not scared! Just. . surprised. He walked over to her.

Can I help you?

I need the book on the top shelf. The red one. Suvel would get it for me normally but she was needed somewhere else and Ada says I am old enough to be in the library alone.

Old enough but perhaps not tall enough?

That is why I pulled the chair so I could reach it.

Would you be able to reach it? Zinnia shrugged her shoulders.

I was going to try and if not then. . then I would choose another book to write my report on.

You could have asked me for help. He looked to her raising his eyebrows and she looked down to her feet.

I did not want to bother you. It looked like you were enjoying your book. I do not think you even heard me enter the library. She looked back up to him a small blush highlighting her features. I know that I dislike when I am interrupted during a good part in a book. Not that I think you are me but I thought if I was you, not that I am you.

I understand your meaning. He smiled at her and she returned it though she was slightly hesitant. The red one you said? She nodded.

I have been reading that one for weeks now. It is very hard. I have to look up most of the words because I do not know what they mean. Erestor reached up and picked the book off the shelf glancing at the title.

You chose to do your report on Fëanor? He looked back to her. Perhaps you should try something a little more understandable.

I understand it. Her tone was defensive. It just takes me a little longer than you.

Child, I did not mean my words as an insult. I am sorry if you felt that they were. My meaning was his actions, you should find something more understandable in regards to why they did what they did.

I think I know why he did it.

Why is that?

Melkor killed his father. The jewels were just a reason to go to get others to follow him. The real reason was the death of his father, he wanted revenge. I. . I could understand that. Erestor paused for a moment as the girl studied her feet again.

Then perhaps it would be better if you focused on a smaller part of the story rather than the large part. She looked up to him. When is your report due?

In two weeks. I have to give it to Suvel with no mistakes and it has to be at least six pages long.

That is a large report. She shrugged slightly.

It is because I, a blush stole over her features again, because I was bad earlier. I can no longer train until I have this done. I thought that if I chose a hard book it would be better than choosing an easy one.

How far are you in the book you currently hold?

Chapter six. They are starting to gather to march out of Valinor. Erestor looked to the book and frowned. It had to be at least forty chapters. The girl would never finish it in time for the report. She was just setting herself up to fail in penance for her guilt.

Does Suvel or your father know the book you chose? She shook her head.

They said I could do whatever book I wanted.

You do realize that you will never finish that book in two weeks, let alone write a report on it.

I will just have to work extra hard!

Again I did not mean to insult you. She stared up at him defiantly.

Will you please give me my book? He crouched down and held it out.

Here child. He held it a little further when she hesitated in approaching him. Slowly she reached out and took it from him and backed up a step. I will be here until dinner. If you have any questions please come ask me. I will do my best to answer you. He stood and walked by her going back to his desk. The scraping sound was heard again and he winced but opened his book to where he had been.

It was hours later when he heard the sniffing. Looking up he saw Zinnia standing just at the edge of peripheral sight as if she was scared to approach him. Tears were falling down her face and he was holding the book she was reading to her chest. He frowned as she blinked at him.

This book is a lie right?

A lie?

This did not happen. I do not believe it. It is a lie.

Will you show me what you think is false? She walked up to the table and opened the book. He realized what was wrong when he saw the illustration of the burning boats.

Elves do not hurt each other. They do not. They do not hurt anyone but orcs.

I am sad to say that this did happen. It is a darker moment in our history but the kinslayings are truth. Fëanor needed the boats and in his quest to get the jewels back he attacked the Teleri to have theirs.

Why? Why? He could have made his own boats. Why did he do it?

It is not known. The reasons for his actions can only be guessed by those who now live and know the events. My opinion is that his grief of loosing his father in such a horrific way along with his want for the stones made him slightly mad. He was not thinking clearly any longer. The only thing that drove him was his quest and he was willing to sacrifice anything to get what he wanted.

But elves. . do not. If elves do it too then. . then. She started crying again.

Come here child. Will you allow me to comfort you or do you wish for your father? Her answer was to walk into his arms. He smiled and lifted her on his lap as he wiped her face with the cloth of his robe.

I thought elves never hurt anyone that did not deserve it.

We strive not to. Though sometimes mistakes are made. Fëanor made his mistake when he swore to retrieve the jewels at any cost. He allowed his sons to make the same choice though most of them eventually learned that it was in fact a mistake. Some tried to correct it and others regretted it terribly.

This book holds the truth; it is part of elves just as Valinor is. We must accept the bad with the good, but know that we have learned from it. Kinslaying now is the greatest crime that an elf can commit. Fëanor and later his sons were punished for their behavior. It was wrong and it was against everything elves are.

Humans are like that though. I remember seeing it.

Not all of them. He touched her cheek softly. Not all of them are, perhaps the ones you were surrounded by. This is a difficult issue. Humans are not elves, they do not have the same traits nor spirit that elves do. That does not make humans bad or wrong, it just makes them not elves.

I do not want to be a human.

Do not say that; never wish to be anything other than what you are. You must embrace your heritage as it is you. I embrace being an elf as that is me.

Elves are better than humans.

Better? she nodded. That is not true. We may have better eyesight or hearing, perhaps even longer lives but that does not make us more than a human. Again it only makes us different. Humans have a strong spirit, stronger than elves.

Stronger than elves? The disbelief in her voice made him smile.

I have seen men fight with a passion that would rival any elf and I have seen them survive trauma that would have killed any elf. You can not compare the two races for the only thing you would be able to measure is what is on the surface. That is nothing compared to what lies underneath. She sniffed and nodded slowly accepting his answer. Now, do you still think this book would be logical to choose for a report due in only a few weeks.

No.

Then we must choose another book.

We?

If you would like my help I would be more than happy to give it.

But you were reading your own book. I should not have bothered you.

It is never a bother to help one learn. I enjoy teaching, it has been a long while since I have been able to help such a young mind grow. He smiled at her and she returned it.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Zinnia put your dress down.

I can't walk in it when it is longer than me Ada!

You will wrinkle the material if you hold it bunched to your knees aier.

Wrinkles. Zinnia rolled her eyes and dropped the dress.

I heard that.

You always hear. He chuckled and reached down picking her up under her arms. She giggled as he hoisted her up.

I hear because I am the father! He blew a raspberry on her neck and she practically squealed trying to pull way from him. Besides you look very lovely in a dress.

You said I looked lovely in my leggings.

You do.

Then why can I not wear those? He smiled and shifted her so she was against his hip as he walked.

We wear formal clothing to show respect. You do not want to be disrespectful do you?

No. Her tone was sullen though.

It is only for a night. I promise tomorrow you can wear leggings again.

Always?

Until the next time you are required to wear a dress. She sighed and crossed her arms over her chest. It is only for one night. He laughed when she stuck her tongue out at him. You must watch aier or else one will steal your tongue! He reached up to grab it and she laughed turning her head away.

Ada what is an escort?

An escort?

Yes, I heard Rúmil say he was going to ask Varwen to be her escort but Orophin said that a balrog would have a better chance tiptoeing through Rivendell. Rúmil then told Orophin to shove an orc blade up his.

I think I can guess the rest of the conversation, and remind me to talk to your uncles.

Well I told Varwen and she laughed and said that Orophin was just jealous because he would have to go alone.

Yes.

But I heard Trelian say that Orophin was sexy and she would go with him. What is sexy?

Valar, how can elves be so loud?

They weren't yelling as loud as Rúmil and Orophin were.

I doubt it, at times your uncles act younger than you.

Does that mean I can tell them to go to bed? Haldir chuckled.

No. She slouched slightly. But you can tell them to eat all of the vegetables tonight. She smiled at that. To answer your question, sexy is a term one would use to denote attraction.

Attraction? Haldir sighed not really wanting to have this conversation before a formal feast where she would only ask more and more questions.

Sexual attraction, is. . well a feeling one would have for another if they wanted to become involved in a relationship that progresses beyond friendship.

Like bonding?

That is one type yes.

So Trelian wants to bond to Orophin?

Not. . necessarily, no she may simply wish to spend more time with him and get to know him better. It is an attraction between ones that you love beyond family and friends. Ones who are special to you. One of the many emotions that a bonded pair would feel toward each other.

Oh, then what is an escort?

In the way Rúmil meant it an escort is a companion for one during special occasions such as feasts or dances.

Will you allow me the honor of being your escort for the evening Lord Haldir? He looked to her and smiled. I heard Rúmil practicing.

The honor would be completely mine my lady.

Am I supposed to give you a flower? Rúmil was worried on taking a flower or not. Haldir laughed then.

Yes he would be. I would much rather give you a flower. He leaned over and picked one before continuing on the path. It will even match your dress. She turned her head and he placed it in one of her braids.

Does this mean you will dance with me?

If you would like to.

Yes, and I will dance with Lord Celeborn.

Will you? She nodded.

You have to dance with Lady Galadriel though so she does not get mad at me.

She will not be angry aier.

Can I dance with Erestor? I like him. She scratched her nose and he smiled.

You will have to ask him.

Are you going to dance with Arwen?

Perhaps.

I like her she is very nice and pretty. She showed me how to braid my hair.

That was very nice of her.

Ada, Suvel wants to know why you have not found a bond mate yet. You should ask to bond to Arwen. He looked to Zinnia who had a resolute expression on her face.

It is more complicated than that.

Why? Haldir had to hold back his grimace. He knew he would have to keep a close eye on her tonight or she would take the initiative and ask Arwen herself. Stopping he set her down and kneeled in front of her fixing her dress.

Aier to find a bond mate is . . well it is normally a very lengthy and involved process. Zinnia tilted her head in an obvious sign of confusion. The two must love each other, and though I value and respect Arwen as a friend, I do not love her in the way that is necessary to bond to her.

Why?

I do not know aier. The heart is one thing that can not be logically defined.

How do you know that you have found the one you want to be your bond mate?

That is hard to explain as well. The feelings you have towards the other will let you know. You are still too young to know of such emotions.

Will I ever find a bond mate?

We will see in time, but I do not know the answer to that question now.

Will you ever find a bond mate?

I do not believe I will on these shores aier.

You will when you go to Valinor?

Perhaps, that time is far into the future and there is no reason to worry for it now. When you get a little older you will understand more.

You say that all the time. When is older old enough? He smiled.

When it is enough. Zinnia sighed and Haldir laughed standing before she could protest or ask another question. Come aier else we will be late. She grabbed his hand and they started climbing the steps.

Dinner was a large affair. The final dinner before the Lord and Lady's grandchildren as well as the rest of the visitors from Rivendell left. Normally Haldir would have been seated at the table to the left of the Lord and Lady befitting his status as march warden. Now though he was seated at the high table with Zinnia, both guests of the Lord and Lady. Otherwise they would have been in the front tables with the other citizens.

Zinnia do not.

Orophin started it. Haldir sighed and looked over at the guard table and caught Orophin quickly pulling in his tongue. Giving a warning glare at Orophin he turned back to Zinnia.

It is not polite to do such, Orophin should know better and now you do as well.

I am hungry, when do we eat?

Soon, the Lord and Lady must enter and then there will be a speech.

Not a long one? Like when Rúmil said his poem, that took longer than an age! A few around the table chuckled and Haldir smiled.

It will not take that long.

Where is Arwen?

She will be here when the Lord and Lady enter.

She has to wear a dress too right?

Yes.

Good, she said she did not mind dresses but I think that is because she is a princess. Why are the boys dresses called robes and my dress is a dress? There was more laughter.

Robes are not dresses.

Well they look like dresses.

Tunics and leggings are worn under robes aier.

Why do you get to wear leggings under your dress and I can not?

As I said before robes are not dresses. Now quiet for a few moments until after the speech.

Yes Ada. When the Lord and Lady entered all stood as a show of respect. They smiled and nodded going to their seats the Rivendell elves, which consisted of their grandchildren and Erestor behind them. True to her word she stayed silent during Lord Celeborn's speech though she started fidgeting after a few minutes.

Dinner itself passed by with little incident. Haldir was slightly worried as it was Zinnias first real formal feast. She sat quietly talking to him and the other elves around her for the most part though. Dancing started after the meal was served. Zinnia pulled him out on to the dance floor excited to be able to learn something new. He couldn't help but smile at the child who was stepping on his feet as he moved around the floor. After dancing for a few songs they sat back down for a short rest.

Ada can I go see Lady Galadriel?

Of course, let me see your hands first. She held them out and he wiped off the fruit juice she had managed to get all over her. There. He helped her off the chair and watched as she made her way down the table to her current target.

Child how fares your evening?

Very good lady Galadriel. She paused a moment and Galadriel smiled feeling her curiosity. Do you think Lord Celeborn is sexy? Galadriel laughed merrily as did the others that heard the question. Haldir's only reaction was to redden slightly and close his eyes mentally cursing his brothers and she-elves.

Well my wife, do not let the child's curiosity go unsatisfied. Celeborn smiled at Galadriel.

Come here little Zinnia. Zinnia smiled and moved up into Galadriel's open arms sitting on her lap. Now first I must ask where you heard such sentiments.

I heard Trelian say that about uncle Orophin. Galadriel smiled. Ada said it is one part of what bonded pairs feel for each other but then he said that Trelian may not wish to bond to Orophin. I do not understand and you said I could ask you questions.

Yes, I did at that.

Ada also said that it is when you are attracted to another.

There are many emotions behind that one simple word, and to answer your question yes I find my husband very sexy.

Because you are bonded?

I found him that before we bonded. You do not have to bond to one to find them attractive. Galadriel laughed at the expression on Zinnia's face. This all still confuses you does it not? Zinnia nodded. You will not appreciate this answer but you will understand when you are older.

I am older than when I first asked Ada. Galadriel smiled and Celeborn chuckled.

Ah little one, these are sentiments of grown-ups and you are still a child are you not? Zinnia looked to Celeborn.

I am eleven. Her tone was offended and he smiled at her.

No longer a child but not yet an adult aier.

Not yet an adult. She agreed but crossed her arms over her chest. I will understand when I am an adult?

You will understand when your body and your mind deem you ready to understand. A few more years will see to that I believe. Zinnia looked back up to Galadriel and smiled. Now go dance with your Ada as I believe your uncles will thank you for his distraction. She helped Zinnia off her lap and the child immediately ran over to Haldir.

At least this time it was not one of ours to ask the difficult questions in the middle of a feast. Galadriel laughed and turned to look at Celeborn who was watching Haldir take Zinnia off to the dance floor.

~~~~~~~~

Erestor watched the dancers with a small smile and took another sip of his wine. A tugging on his robes caused him to look down spotting Zinnia as the culprit. She was shifting her on her feet from side to side and looked decidedly nervous about something.

Can I help you aier?

Will you dance with me? He smiled.

Of course, I would be honored. She grinned and took his hand as they moved out on the dance floor.

Ada lets me step on his feet like this. She moved and put her feet on Erestor's and looked up. I do not know all of the steps.

It is a good way to learn. He spun her around and she giggled happily.

I wanted to thank you for helping me with my report.

You are very much welcome. I enjoyed our time together. She nodded and bit her bottom lip.

I am going to miss you when you leave tomorrow. The music turned to a slower song and Erestor picked her up continuing to dance.

I will miss you as well, you are a very bright student. She blushed and he smiled.

Then stay and be my bond mate. Erestor looked to her surprised. I do not know what sexy is but when I get older I will know and I like you not like I like my uncles and Ada but.

Child.

I am not a child.

You are right, you are not a child. Would you like to take a walk with me? We need to talk for a short moment and then perhaps some cake?

Cake! I like cake. Does it have icing on it? Suvel made me a cake with yellow icing before and it was really good, but uncle Rúmil made one with green icing that was really bad. I ate my piece though because I did not want to hurt his feelings. Erestor chuckled.

We will have to find out. He set her down and she took his hand as they walked out of the dining hall.

~~~~~~~~~

Where is Zinnia? Haldir looked around the dance floor and did not see her.

I believe Erestor went to speak with her after she asked him to bond with her. Suvel smiled at Haldir's expression. At least someone in your family will find a life partner.

This is not funny. Haldir shocked expression turned to a scowl that had no real effect on Suvel.

It is a childish infatuation. She laughed and put her and on his arm. Tell me you did not notice how she spent all her time in the library.

She was researching her report.

Haldir, she was spending time with Erestor.

Orophin you are not one of my most favored elves tonight. Orophin laughed.

Yes news of her earlier conversation with our Lady was rather entertaining. Orophin quieted at Haldir's glare but the smile didn't leave his face.

I am going to sort this out.

There is nothing to sort. Suvel's words fell on deaf ears as Haldir made his way out of the dining hall and towards the gardens at the base.

'Nothing to sort!' He sighed and continued down the path. 'She asked to bond with him for Valar's sake and there is nothing to sort. Eleven years old and asking to bond to another! She does not understand what she asks she does not even understand what love is. She is only eleven!' Zinnia's laughter floated through the air and he followed it.

He found the two on a bench talking quietly. Erestor was smiling at her and she was smiling up at him. He saw it now. The affection in her eyes was easy to read as she looked upon the dark haired advisor. Caring was reflected back down to her in Erestor's features as he looked down on the child. A fierce wave of protectiveness washed over him and he almost growled. Just as he was about to storm into the small clearing Erestor looked to him and raised an eyebrow in clear questioning. He frowned at the other elf not knowing if he should trust his daughter to him.

I think you are very pretty too. Erestor's eyes moved from Haldir back to the child sitting next to him.

Thank you.

So if we are bond mates does that mean that you will help me with all of my reports?

Bond mates help each other when they are needed, but Zinnia I can not be your bond mate.

Why? Her tone was defeated. You said you liked spending time with me and that way you can stay here and spend even more time with me.

What of my responsibilities to Elrond? What of my friends? My belongings?

I do not know? She shrugged and sighed.

Your sentiments flatter me, but I can not answer a yes to your question.

Why? I like you Erestor, we could have fun together and play, then you can teach me all the time. Not that I do not like Suvel but I just. .

Enjoy having some one new around? She blushed but nodded.

Bond mates have to stay together so I thought if we were bond mates you would stay.

What if I said you would have to come with me?

I do not want to leave Ada! Or my uncles, I want to stay here.

You are not ready to do such, no. Just another reason why we can not become bond mates. Zinnia sighed again more annoyed than anything.

I thought I had solved the problem.

Some problems have many solutions; some are more likely and probable than others. Your solution would work if it were not for factors that you did not understand had to be taken into account.

Like you are living in Rivendell.

Yes that is one.

Can we find a solution to the problem?

I must return to Rivendell, you must stay with your father. I think the solution you are trying to find is for something that is not necessarily a problem.

Then you do not care that you have to leave me?

I care, do not doubt that. I care for all of my friends.

So we can not stay together?

I am afraid that we can not. She slouched and Erestor looked back to Haldir who was still hovering in the distance. Haldir took that as his cue to enter the clearing and did so. Do not be so sad. We can still be friends.

There you are my sweet I have been looking for my dance partner.

Ada. Her face broke into a wide grin. Erestor and I were talking.

Talking? He moved in front of her and lowered himself so he could look her in the eye as she nodded at his question.

Yes, but I believe we have come to an understanding. Erestor put a hand on her shoulder and she smiled up at him.

Can we have cake now? Erestor smiled.

That sounds like a wonderful idea. She grinned and looked to Haldir.

Then we must hurry as I saw Orophin spot the sweet table before I left.

He is going to eat everything! She jumped off the bench and took off towards the dining hall, both adults watching with a smile.

She is a precious child Haldir. You must be very proud. Haldir turned his attention back to Erestor before standing.

I am and I thank the Valar every day for letting me find her. He smoothed down the front of his robe before speaking again. I hope she did not embarrass you with her questions. Erestor chuckled and stood shaking his head slightly.

Not at all. Do not fret, she only wished for me to stay and thought that bonding with me would be the only way to make me.

Thank you for explaining it to her.

There is no need to thank me for that. They both looked back to the path when they heard hurried footsteps.

You were supposed to follow me. She sighed and grabbed one of each of their hands.

We were? Haldir smiled as Zinnia tried to pull them both back towards the path.

Yes. She planted both of her feet and put her entire body weight into tugging them.

Then we should go. Haldir and Erestor glanced to each other before they both lifted her up and swung her as they walked. She laughed and both smiled as she hung in the air.

~~~~~~~~~~

Zinnia squared her shoulders as she watched the Rivendell elves prepared to leave. The horses were gathered at the gates and there was a small crowd that was saying their goodbyes. She looked up when Haldir put his hand on her head and messed her hair. He smiled at reassuringly.

Go aier, if you let them leave without speaking to them, you may not have another chance for a number of years.

Yes Ada. She still hesitated slightly.

I will be here my sweet, speak with them and tell them. He smoothed her hair down and she gave him a smile before walking off towards the twins.

Aier. She stopped and smiled at Arwen. I will think of you often. Arwen leaned over and put her hand on Zinnia's cheek.

I made you a picture. Zinnia handed Arwen the paper and the elf smiled at the child.

May I open it? Zinnia nodded and Arwen opened the rolled paper. The drawing was of what she assumed to be a dear in a small glade.

Beautiful. Have you come to say goodbye to Erestor? Zinnia nodded but her eyes glanced to the Twins.

And to talk to your brothers. Arwen nodded.

Then I shall leave you to it. It was a pleasure meeting you, I hope our paths cross again.

I as well. Arwen smiled again and righted herself. I will tell my brothers that you wish to speak with them. Zinnia watched as Arwen walked over to the twins and directed their attention to her. They walked over slowly and both bowed to her.

Our sister has told us you wish to speak with us. Zinnia looked to the twin that spoke and nodded.

I have decided to try to forgive you. She shuffled her feet slightly. I am not sure that I will be able to but Arwen said the most anyone can ask is that I try.

I hope one day we can earn your forgiveness. They both bowed to her and she sighed.

Arwen told me about your mother. I wish that would not have happened.

As do we.

It was not your fault and you should not blame yourselves. I have bad dreams sometimes about my brother but. . but Ada says that it was not my fault. He says that I could have done nothing to stop it. Arwen said your Ada said the same thing.

It is different with us ai.. Lady Zinnia. We are trained warriors, we could have stopped what they did to her.

No, no because you did not know that they were going to hurt her. Bad things happen but we must understand that it is not our fault.

Some one is to blame. Elladan's words were spoken harshly but Zinnia didn't react to the tone. She reached over and grabbed his hand.

Then blame the ones that hurt her and not yourself. That is what Ada says and he is always right. Elladan smiled and held her hand.

Always? Zinnia nodded without hesitation. Elrohir smiled as well and held out his hand to her. She let go of Elladan and held out her hand to Elrohir who took it in a warrior's embrace.

Good bye little warrior. I hope when you make it to Rivendell you will speak with us. She grinned and nodded.

I made you both something. She handed them a rolled up piece of paper tied with a ribbon. You can not open it until you have left Lórien though. She held them out but pulled them back when they went to take them. Promise?

We promise. They spoke at the same time and she smiled giving them their gifts.

I hope you have green and golden paths. The twins smiled at her and bowed again.

Farewell little warrior.

Come now we must leave. Erestor ushered the two twins off before turning back to Zinnia. This is farewell aier.

I made you something too. He smiled and crouched down to her level before taking the paper from her.

I am sure it is beautiful. She blushed slightly and looked down. Do I have to wait to open it as well?

If you want to. She looked back up to him. Will you make sure the twins do not open theirs until I said?

I will make sure they keep their promise.

Are you sure you will not be my bond mate? You can sleep with Ada since his bed is big enough and we can draw in the afternoons. At night you can read a book with me. He smiled warmly and she returned it.

You will make someone a very special spouse aier. You are loving, warm and very thoughtful. I however will not be the lucky person to win your heart.

How do you know? I like you. . you are fun. He laughed and opened his arms, which she immediately stepped into for a hug.

You are fun as well aier. He picked her up as he spoke and walked over to his horse.

Is it because I'm young? Everyone says I'll get older. They say it all the time.

That is part of the reason. You still do not understand what you ask. In a few years time you will. And I know that in ten years you will be making a trip to Rivendell.

Really? she asked excited.

Yes, I have already arranged some of it. Your Ada wishes me to seek permission from Lord Elrond. He will say yes and you can come when you are older. You will be of age then and will understand most of what everyone says you will.

Ten years is forever!

For one of your years yes, a week is forever, a day can be forever, an hour even. She smiled but nodded. We will be friends aier, and sometimes that relationship is all that can come between two people.

Will you write me?

I promise.

Everyday? He laughed and she smiled.

As often as I can. You must promise to write me.

I promise! He chuckled and set her up on his horse before rummaging through his saddle bag. Do you not want to be my bond mate because I am human? Erestor met her eyes and she only blinked at him.

No aier, that has nothing to do with my answer to you.

Do you swear that? I think it does.

It does not and I swear it upon my every book I have ever read.

Have you read them all? He smiled at her.

Not all. He pulled what he had been looking for out of his pack and picked her up again before setting her on the ground and kneeling in front of her. I want you to have this.

But that is your favorite inkwell! she said surprised. He smiled and took her hand putting it in her palm.

Now it is yours, every time you write a report, or letter, or even a note I want you to think of me.

I will. She pulled the inkwell to her chest and he smiled.

And I shall think of you every time I see your lovely drawing as I will hang it in my study. The gates opened and the groups escort as well as many of the ones leaving mounted. I must go Zinnia. Do not forget to write me.

I will start a letter as soon as I go back home. Erestor smiled and cupped her cheek with his palm.

Of that I have no doubt.

Come Zinnia, it is time for them to leave. They both looked up to Haldir. Erestor nodded and stood as Haldir took Zinnia in his arms and lifted her so she could see over the horses.

Bye Erestor. Erestor mounted and looked back down.

Bye Zinnia, until next we meet. He gave a small wave before he followed the others.

It was very grown up of you to speak with the twins. Zinnia nodded still watching Erestor. What did you draw them? You never showed me. She turned to him and the smile she gave was decidedly impish.

That is because it is a surprise. She gave a small laugh and gave one last look to the exiting party. I need to start my letter to Erestor. Haldir smiled.

~~~~~~~~~

Erestor the end of the boarders is within sight! Erestor almost laughed at the impatient tone in Elrohir's voice.

You promised not until you left said boarders child, stop whining.

I am not whining.

Yes you were.

Elladan you are one to speak as yours is in your hands as well. Elladan reddened slightly.

Only so you do not look like such an immature elfling.

Elfling! May I remind you that you are younger than me.

By five minutes and no you may not! Erestor let them argue knowing that it would keep them occupied until they reached the boarders.

Finally! Despite his words Elladan was the first to open his drawing followed closely by Elrohir. They both broke out into fits of laughter.

It would seem she has gotten us back. they looked back to Erestor and chuckled seeing his was open as well.

What has gotten you two in a laughing fit? Arwen rode up and they grinned at her.

The little one has given us drawings. Arwen laughed as she looked at them. Both had a face sticking their tongue out in a taunting gesture.

What of yours? The three looked to Erestor who rolled his back up and put it in his travel bag.

It is private.

That is not fair! Erestor smiled at the whine in Elladan's voice.

We will show you ours.

I already know what yours are. He grinned at their expressions. Now, turn around and pay attention to the trail. It gets uneven ahead. All three rolled their eyes and moved their horses forward. None of them noticed him pulling it out again and inspecting it further. He smiled at the picture easily pointing out Haldir and his brothers. Zinnia standing next to another elf with dark hair. Smiles on all of their faces and all reading books.

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

aier = little one

Ada = Father

Atada = Grandfather