Chapter 27: Intentions

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

Warnings: Again, mentions of child abuse.

ARTWORK!!: I've made a banner for this story! To view it go here: www. geocities .com/ maeluiril/ chbanner .html (take the spaces out)

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So how do you think our Megilindir will fare with our dear Zinnia? Glorfindel looked to Erestor and smiled.

He will. . survive. Should he not act as an orc.

You seem concerned.

I. . am.

What for? They are both adults, and besides they have enough in common to at least hold a decent conversation.

That is not what worries me. It is something else. Glorfindel followed Erestor's eyes and saw Haldir sitting next to Arwen. They were talking quietly but he noticed that Haldir was scanning the area. Dinner was to officially start soon and Glorfindel guessed he was concerned as to his daughter's location.

Her father?

Partly. Erestor sighed and relaxed in his chair. He would never hurt his daughter though he may chase Megilindir for a while. No, unless he hurts her, there will be no reason to fear her father.

Then that is what is bothering you? Him hurting her? I could not see that either.

No, not physically. And I do not see him intentionally harming her any other way, but the fact remains that she is still young. She has never met another human, and the contact she had with her own kind before was not. . Beneficial.

Not beneficial? What do you mean by that?

Why would the Lord and Lady of Lórien take a human child from her family and put her in their March Warden's care? It is not an every day occurrence.

No, one would have thought that had the girl been lost she would have been cared for but returned to her family. Or at least an attempt made. Erestor only looked pointedly at Glorfindel. Then she was not lost? I assumed that she had gotten separated from her traveling party. Again there was no answer and Glorfindel sighed annoyed. At times the advisor sitting next to him was damned irritating. If you are not going to tell me why must you hint at the answer?

You are old enough to figure the mystery out. Erestor smirked before his expression turned slightly more serious. Besides it is not my place to speak of her past.

Your expression speaks of something ill. Erestor didn't answer but looked back down to Haldir giving Glorfindel all the answer he needed. He thought it over a moment. The only reason the Lord and Lady, or any elf for that matter, would take a child from their own race would be to protect it. He had to guess that the only reason she wasn't returned to family was because she was in danger with them or because she had none. He shook his head at that though. It would have had to been because she was in danger. They would have put her back with her own kind if they could have.

Regardless of her past experiences with her race, they will not be repeated with Megilindir. He is honorable and trustworthy. I do not fear for her while she is in his company. Erestor's only response was to nod slightly.

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Haldir had been slightly concerned when Zinnia hadn't shown up for dinner. She hadn't discussed any other plans with him. He was going to make an inquiry to Arwen, they seemed to be good friends, but held his tongue when he noticed that the ranger, Megilindir, was absent as well. As he thought about that mystery he kept up his conversation with the others around him.

The twins were speaking quietly to themselves and shooting him glances every once and a while though he pretended that he didn't notice. That alone was enough to confirm his suspicions that something was going on. There were other subtle hints though. One large one had been the flowers that had been appearing in front of Zinnia's door for the past week or so. She never spoke to him of it so he never broached the subject, though now he was reconsidering that course of action.

His curiosity was peaked more than anything else. At the moment he saw no reason to be highly concerned. He did guess that this had something to do with both Megilindir and Zinnia. Despite what the others thought he wasn't oblivious, he had noticed the twins always pushing the two together, he had noticed the looks that both Zinnia and Megilindir would give the other when they thought the other wasn't looking, and he had definately noticed the night she had worn a dress to dinner when she didn't have to. That coupled with the fact that she had been wearing make-up signaled something significant.

He didn't know how to react to the fact that she hadn't come to him to speak of it though. She had told him nothing of the flowers nor had she even spoken of Megilindir other than in passing. He knew she had spared with him a couple of times, and they had lunch together, but never alone. The twins had always been mentioned with the ranger's name.

All of those thoughts running around in his head only caused his curiosity to grow. He could make a few assumptions, but he wished to know the facts. That had been what led him on the walk after dinner to make sure he had his thoughts organized before he approached Zinnia. He stopped on one of the bridges and leaned against the railing crossing his arms over his chest.

'He would not hurt her.' His eyes narrowed slightly. 'I hope he would understand that if he did he would be seeing me shortly.' He sighed and looked over the horizon watching the waterfall. 'She should have some contact with her own kind besides. There would be worse for her to become infatuated with than the ranger.' As he made his way back to the house his determination only grew. He would find out what exactly was happening and then base his reaction on fact not assumption.

He was almost to her door when he heard laughing. It was Zinnia's mixed with a lower pitched. Footsteps were heard and making a decision he stepped back into the shadowed alcove effectively hiding himself from view. Only seconds passed before both objects of his recent contemplation stepped into view. They seemed to be enjoying one another's company judging from the smiles and continued laughter.

"Thank you for dinner, it was lovely."

"You are most welcome Zinnia." He grinned and kissed the back of her hand before dropping it. "Do you still wish to meet in the morning?"

"Of course, I would never dream of missing a chance to best you yet again." He laughed and she smiled. "Though I will admit I will miss the flowers I am glad that the game is over."

"As am I." There was an awkward silence before Zinnia quickly moved forward and kissed him.

"Good night Megilindir." Before Megilindir had a chance to respond she had already entered the room and shut the door. The boy stood there almost shocked before a horse 'goodnight' left his lips and he turned to walk away. Haldir only sighed, he was going to have to have a talk with the ranger.

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Glorfindel hadn't been that surprised when Haldir approached him and started inquiring about Megilindir. He answered as truthfully and with as little obvious embellishment as possible. The truth was that Glorfindel thought highly of Megilindir. He was a solid warrior, and a solid man as far as he judged. Even after their conversation he could tell that Haldir was still wary. Perhaps not of whom Zinnia was becoming increasingly involved with but the fact that she was becoming involved with any.

Perhaps you should get to know him for yourself. Haldir looked to Glorfindel and raised an eyebrow in question. There is normally a patrol that goes out at the end of every month. They only gather messages from the posts and deliver others. Usually they are gone for no more than two nights. Megilindir has taken that ride many times, he will again if I ask him to. Go with him. Speak to him. . Though do not threaten him. Haldir grinned.

I would not threaten him without provocation. Glorfindel only laughed and sat back further in his chair.

And is not the fact that he has your daughters attention provocation enough? Haldir's smile faded some.

She deserves. . .

More? A touch of coldness had entered Glorfindel's tone at the thought of Haldir thinking so low of his friend without any reason.

Stability, something long term. We leave in but weeks. This romance will be ill-fated if that is indeed what it is. Though there will be none to blame. . one if not both will be hurt. Haldir sighed. Had we been here longer. . or. . it does not matter. We will leave for Lórien and there is but a very small chance that he would join us for even part of the way.

Perhaps it is not a romance that can withstand distance, perhaps is. In the end it will be their decision, will it not? Haldir sighed again but nodded. Then worry not for that, both know they will be parted and when I am sure. There was a small silence. Go with him and ease your mind in regards to his person. You will find him very likeable, perhaps enjoy his company.

I have met him before; he delivered some messages to the woods. Though there was not much of an exchange beyond business. I have no reason to distrust him other than I do not know him. You are right, this trip would be wise.

Of course it would be wise, I suggested it. Glorfindel shuffled some papers and found the scheduled roster missing Haldir's smile. I believe it would also be wise to get the twins out of range of your daughter for a while. Both she and Arwen have been much too secretive when they enter the room for it to bode well for the House's well being.

She would do nothing permanent. Glorfindel chuckled.

Arwen or your daughter? Haldir only smiled not really knowing the answer to that question.

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Farewell ada, have fun and do not kill him. He chuckled and took the package of food Zinnia handed him.

I would not.

We would all know it was you no matter where you hid the body. She cut him off and raised an eyebrow in perfect imitation of him.

Very well, but only because you insisted. She grinned and hugged him. I am surprised you do not wish to go. Zinnia rolled her eyes as she chuckled.

Surely you jest. You think I or anyone else does not know why the roster mysteriously changed? Or why Glorfindel asked Megilindir to accompany you when the twins would most likely have been a more suited choice?

I only wish to know him more. She smiled and nodded.

He is a friend ada, nothing more. He gave her a look that clearly said he knew she was not telling him something and she sighed. Nothing more yet, perhaps not ever. I enjoy his company and he enjoys mine. She smiled up at him. I must remember to thank Glorfindel for sending the twins away besides. It gives Arwen and I more time to plan and less chances of them overhearing us. He chuckled and shook his head.

I do not believe that was Glorfindel's intention. Zinnia only shrugged and grinned.

Are you ready Lord Haldir? They both looked over to Megilindir who had his and Haldir's horse saddled and was leading them.

Yes, let us be on our way. Megilindir handed the reins of Haldir's horse to Haldir before mounting his own.

Safe journey. Zinnia smiled at the both of them before looking to Megilindir. Ada tends to leave his right side open after a swing jab combination.

What? Megilindir's tone was confused as Haldir started laughing.

It is only her attempt at humor.

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Megilindir admitted to himself that he was nervous. Haldir had let him take the lead as he knew the land more, and that is how they had spent most of the two day journey. In between posts they simply rode, side by side, in silence. It was almost more intimidating than when he had cornered him in front of the healing room. Not that he thought the Elf wished it to be so, if anything he seemed contemplative.

Personally he did not understand all of the warnings that the Twins had given him. Yes, Haldir was the March Warden, a very high and respectable position. Yes, he was protective of his daughter, a fact he had learned very quickly. But he did not seem rash or cold. There was no way Haldir of Lórien was as heartless as the twins painted him. Not if his daughter loved him the way she obviously did, and not in the way that he loved her back. Arrogant perhaps, but even that slipped when he was with friends and family.

Megilindir viewed him much as his own father. Depending on the person he could be the most arrogant, most irritating and demanding man on middle-earth, or the most caring, the most unselfish and loving man on middle-earth. The indifference and coldness was just a way to assert the authority that was necessary for his job, not his personality. The elf next to him was no different.

Oddly, he felt comforted by that fact. No danger would be in his path from Haldir, not unless he provoked it. He smiled slightly as he rubbed his neck where the knife had been pressed during their first meeting. 'A major way to do such would be to harm his daughter. Perhaps that is what this is all about.' Out of the corner of his eye he observed Haldir but nothing was given away in the elf's features or body language. He could think of no other reason for the sudden interest in his company though. Not wanting to feel so uncomfortable in Haldir's presence he decided to speak of it.

I would not hurt her. Haldir slowly turned his head and looked at him before turning his attention back to the road. I would not do so on purpose. . though I would never unintentionally either. At least I would hope not, I would not . . He sighed and stopped talking. I tend to ramble when I am nervous. He looked to Haldir who had a distinctly amused look on his face. I have not been that nervous since I had Erestor as a teacher.

It was not my intention to make you nervous. Haldir looked to Megilindir and smiled at the disbelief on the ranger's face. Not my main intention.

Then why did you wish to go on this round with me? If you wished to simply get away from the house you could have easily taken this task alone. You do not need a guide, even in a forest you do not know.

You are right. I do not need a guide. Haldir paused a moment. I was simply curious of you. My daughter is very dear to me; I simply wish to override my concerns with you by knowing you. Glorfindel as well as all of the others have told me my worries are groundless. I respect their opinion enough to trust their judgment of you. However I also wish to achieve this opinion through you not words of others.

Then I hope I will be able to earn your respect Lord Haldir.

You have my respect Megilindir. Without your help it is plausible that Zinnia would still be suffering. I do not know what you said to her but it helped her and for that I will always be grateful. She seems to like you as well, and I have to trust her even if I do not know you. If she feels that you are worthy enough of her time and perhaps affection, well, that sways me more than Lord Elrond himself.

Thank you lord Haldir. Haldir gives a slow nod.

Know that it would pain me should I ever have to deal with you for hurting her.

It would never come to that. The conviction and immediacy of the rangers answer surprised him slightly. I would not hurt her.

Then we have an understanding.

No offence lord but I came to that understand when we first met. Haldir gave a small smile.

A quick study as well. Come, we must still visit four outposts and return to the city by dinner.

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Are you sure this is going to work? They have only been gone two days. Arwen smiled slightly.

It is a tradition of theirs. When they come back from patrol they go to the pond and swim, no matter the patrol length. I will take care of their clothes in their room, you take these and get the clothes from the lake. Zinnia took the dresses Arwen handed her.

They are going to be so angry. Despite her words Zinnia's tone was joyful. Arwen laughed not having had this much fun at her brothers expense since Erestor had helped her to put ink in their shampoo. Though the twins still had no idea who her co-conspirator had been.

They will get over it. Though I would be very careful to keep alert until you are safely back in the borders of Lórien.

It will be worth it whatever they do. They both laughed and went their separate ways to fulfill their part of the plan.

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Zinnia bit her lip hard to keep from laughing as she crept closer to the bushes that she saw tunics and other clothes laying on. The sounds of the twins laughing and splashing was heard and she peaked through the bushes making sure their attention was not towards her area. That and making sure to get a good view of them naked. Slowly she pulled the clothes she could reach from her hidden position. There was still one set of leggings too far out of the way for her to reach.

She gave a small sigh and debated her options. Leaving them was not one of the paths she could take. She had to get them and to do so would give her away. The plan had been to do this in secret but now it appeared as though it wouldn't happen that way. There was no way that she could get the leggings without them noticing her. Deciding that between the shock of her finding them and the shock of them realizing that they only had dresses, she would be able to make it back to the relative safety of the house before they could get to her. With a grin she simply stood in plain view and walked out revealing herself.

Good Afternoon! Both twins stopped trying to dunk the other and looked to her. My, my you really are identical. She laughed when both realized where she was looking and slid under the water hiding their lower halves.

What are you doing here?

I just wanted to repay you for your lovely gifts.

Gifts?

Those amazing frilly, lacy, pale, dresses. Each word was stressed through her sarcastic tone. So here you go. Enjoy. With that she bowed picked up the pants laughing as she took off as fast as he could towards the main house, clutching the twins clothing in her arms.

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Your move. Elrond only smiled at Erestor as he sat back in his char a smirk on his face. It was a custom of theirs to play chess before dinner. He was about to respond when there was the sound of loud laughter echoing through the halls. They both turned their attention to the door way and saw Zinnia run by, the obvious source of the laughter. Paying no attention they turn back to the chess game until a few moments later there is a loud shout.

You best run.

And pray we do not catch you. This time two figures ran by, capturing both Elrond's and Erestor's attention entirely. A few seconds passed before they looked to each other.

I believe I may be growing old. Would you please confirm that my sons just ran by, wearing dresses, chasing the March warden's daughter.

Yes I believe that was the case, your eyes do not deceive you. Erestor nodded and looked back to the chess board.

And she was carrying their clothes?

Only some of them. Erestor moved his piece and sat back again.

Ah, then I shall not worry. Check.

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Megilindir = bladesinger

Ada = Father

A/N: This is the first time I've done this. . but I have found a great fiction. It is called Married to the Marchwarden and is about Haldir's wife. You just have to read it, I'm hooked and begging her for a new chapter every time I read one. The author's name is GreenWood Elf and to get to her profile go to the following url:

http:// www. fanfiction. net/ ~GreenWoodElf

Just remember to take the spaces out or it won't work. I haven't had a chance to read over her other stories yet, but if they are anything like the one I mentioned I know I will love them.

As far as Captured Heart goes, I will try my best to update every week or two. Right now I'm working a two chapters ahead of what you have. So I have the next chapter written and until I finish the one after that won't post. That way if something should happen I have a little buffer space so I don't leave you waiting too long.

This story is turning into a saga, and I hope I can keep all of you with me until the end. Know at this point, this story is one of my main priorities in my life. It has kept me sane over the past couple of months with my real life. And I just wanted to let all of you know that your reviews really mean a lot to me, even if I don't have the chance to send you an e-mail and thank you personally. Thank you so much for your support.