Chapter 29: Goodbyes
Zinnia shut the book Megilindir had given her with a sigh. The time was approaching when she would have to make a decision. Though in her heart she knew that her decision had already been made long ago, Her only real decision now was how to tell her family that she was leaving within a few months. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach at the thought of it. Her fear was that they would be disappointed with her for wanting to go.
She swung her legs around the air as she put her palms against the tree branch. It had seemed like ages since she had a peaceful moment. Even there at her tree, her thoughts were plaguing her. The fear of telling her father, the fear of leaving, the fear of something new.
Something new. She smiled at the thought. Though she would never have admitted it to any there, she was growing more and more bored with nothing to do but read books or spar. She felt stilted there, and had only noticed it more after returning from Imladris. Lorien was her home, and she would forever think of it as such, but at the moment it was suffocating her.
Making her way down the tree limbs she landed on her feet with a soft grunt. She pulled the book to her chest as she started wondering the worn paths aimlessly. 'The hard part is over, I have decided to go. Now. . now I must tell ada.' She closed her eyes tightly ignoring the spike of fear that went through her. He had been not only her safety but her guide for so long she wasn't sure how she would handle his reaction if it was negative. She jumped when a hand landed on her shoulder.
It is best to walk with your eyes open. Celeborn smiled as she looked to him. She realized she would have walked into a tree had he not stopped her and blushed. Though perhaps your attention is focused more inwards than outwards.
Yes. . I…
You have been very contemplative since you returned from Imladris. He smiled as he reached out and gently tilted her chin up. Your smile has been behind a mask of thought. A shame, your smile brings much joy.
I have much on my mind as of late. She smiled at him and he took her hand placing it in the crook of his arm as he started leading her down the path.
Perhaps some of these, things, on your mind revolve around a ranger? He laughed when her face heated a dark red.
How do you know of that?
Aier, you are not the only one with friends in Imladris. Elrond found it rather amusing. Especially his sons wearing dresses. I must say that I agree with him when he said it was inspired.
Arwen helped me to plan it. She giggled softly and relaxed. And yes, he is one of the things on my mind, though…not the only.
Ahh. They walked in silence for a few moments. And yet from your actions I would guess you have not spoken to any of your thoughts.
I have not. She sighed. I am scared to speak of it. I… she cleared her throat. Megilindir has asked me to join the rangers. She glanced to Celeborn and saw that now he had a thoughtful look on his face.
You would make a fine addition to their ranks. Celeborn smiled at the surprise on her face. You thought I would advise you not to go?
I thought so yes. She sighed as they continued walking.
Why may I ask? He gave her a questioning look and smiled at her.
I…am young to you, to ada. I did not think that that you would wish me to leave.
I do not wish for you to leave, but I can tell you are no longer happy here.
I am not unhappy. She said quickly not wanting to offend him.
You are. He smiled at her. Do not think I do not understand. You have the opportunity for new more exciting things. I understand this, and give your ada a chance; he will understand it as well.
I am scared to tell him. I am scared to leave him. She looked up to Celeborn and he patted her hand.
Come help me with my falcons. He started up the steps smiling when he heard her footsteps following. They worked in silence, cleaning out the cages and adding fresh bedding and seed. Do you notice anything of my falcon cages aier?
She stood at the question and looked. Noticing nothing she titled her head. They were simple wooden cages. They are made of wood? She looked to him and he smiled laughing softly.
Yes, they are made of wood. Look at them closer, but not as close. He smiled when she rolled her eyes but looked back to the cages. A look of surprise came over her face and he knew she saw the answer.
They have no doors.
That is right aier, and yet the birds know they are free to return at any time. I have not had a single one that never did return, though all have left. And though I would never compare you to a bird, it is the same principle with children. You must let them go for them to return. You were a delightful child, and though I would love for you to stay here longer, not all of the experiences in this world are found within these city walls. Your ada will understand that, though it may take him a little while to figure it out.
Zinnia paused momentarily as she heard her uncles' loud laughter, it was followed shortly by Haldir's and she went back to her task of setting the table. She had made sure that all of them were going to be home that week, and made sure to invite both of her uncles to dinner. Not that was something rare in and of itself, but tonight would be different. She had decided to just screw up all of her courage and tell them of her decision.
Something smells wonderful. Rúmil was the first one in and had a large smile on his face.
Then we all know you didn't cook it. Orophin laughed as Rúmil elbowed him in the stomach. Sorry brother, you have improved…slightly.
Thank you for your show of support. Rúmil rolled his eyes and walked over to the couch sitting.
You did not tell me you were going to cook tonight. Haldir smiled and walked over to Zinnia giving her a kiss on the cheek before reaching out to grab a carrot to much on.
None of that. Zinnia smacked his hand and smiled as he dropped the carrot. It will be ready shortly.
Haldir only sighed. Very well daughter. Rúmil is right, it does smell good. I would go hungry without you here. He gave a small grin and sat with his brothers missing Zinnia's small frown. She hesitated momentarily before she finished setting the table and started putting the food out. After everything was set she made sure to fill her Ada's and uncles' wine glasses as much as she could before calling them to the table.
If anyone noticed her nervousness as the meal progressed, no one spoke of it. Though she was getting many compliments on the meal she couldn't force herself to eat anything. Her stomach was in knots and she only managed to push the small bit of food she had dished out around her plate. The others were in the middle of some discussion she hadn't been listening too when she suddenly spoke.
I…I have something to say and I wish to say it without anyone interrupting me until I am done. The conversation fell silent as they all looked to her. This only made her more nervous and she fidgeted with her fork before setting it down.
You sound as though you speak of something grave. Orophin gave an lopsided smile trying to lighten the mood slightly. She could only swallow the lump that had formed in her throat and nod slightly.
Then speak your mind dear one. Rúmil gave her a soft smile and she looked to Haldir. There was an expression of something she couldn't place on his face. Though his lips were turned into a slight smile there was another emotion in his eyes than humor.
I do not know how to say this other than what it is. I am leaving in two months…roughly. Megilindir asked me to join the rangers and I wish to accept. I wish to become a ranger. She held Haldir's eyes with her own, his reaction the one she was dreading the most.
You should work on your delivery, but it is a good joke. Orophin chuckled slightly and took another drink of his wine. She looked to him and frowned slightly.
It is no joke, he asked me before we left Imladris. He is to send a letter when he is to be around Lorien. In Imladris, he said to expect him a month after solstice.
It must be a joke, for you are not going. Haldir's tone was firm and Zinnia's attention went back to him.
I am ada, I am leaving with him.
The Mordor you are! Orophin stood and threw his napkin on the table.
Orophin, sit down and hush! Rúmil's tone was just as firm as Haldir's had been and Orophin sat almost without thinking. Zinnia's eyes never left Haldir's during the exchange.
You are not. She lowered her head as she closed her eyes. You are too young…and I will not let you go with him. Even if his intentions were pure I would not- He quieted when Zinnia slammed her hand on the table and looked to him.
Ada! His intentions are pure; he would have asked me even if we were not friends. Zinnia's anger only rose when Haldir scoffed slightly. Damnit I am almost 22 years old! I am old enough to make this decision. I am old enough because I am human. She stood as she nearly screamed and brushed her hair behind her ear.
It is round ada, not pointed. I am mortal, and as such may only live to reach 100 years. 100 years! And that is if the valar is with me, most likely it will not be that. Almost one fourth of my life is gone…gone and unlike you or anyone else that I love here I will not be reborn when I die. I will not go to Valinor to live until the end of Arda. I will die. I will die and that will be it.
As much as I love all of you, this place, and everything you have ever given me you can not ask me to stay within these city walls for my ever! You can not expect me to do nothing but spar, knowing I will never be able to use my skills. You can not expect me to be happy with only reading of these wondrous places. Please, accept that this is my path. Your permission or not I am leaving. Ada, please, I want your permission. It would break my heart if you…if you did not give it. She felt the tears in her eyes but refused to let any of them fall.
Haldir's only visible reaction to everything was a set in his jaw and hardening of his eyes. Slowly he picked up his napkin, wiped off his mouth, before standing and leaving the flet. The other three were left in silence, Zinnia's head bowed and struggling to keep the tears from her cheeks.
You are not leavening. Did you think of how it would affect us? Of your Ada! It will break his heart. Orophin threw his own napkin on the table before quickly following Haldir. Zinnia watched as he left then took a deep breath and started gathering the dishes from the table. Rúmil watched in silence before standing and going over to his niece, putting his hands on her shoulders.
Dear one? He felt the tenseness in her body and frowned.
Go, just leave too. Her voice was a near sob and she tried to pull away from him. He only pulled her closer and hugged her as she started to cry.
They do not leave you. He started stroking her hair wishing her to calm.
You do not hate me do you?
Zinnia. Rúmil pulled her back and tilted her head up. No one hates you, we love you. The thought of you leaving hurts, and we all react differently to that. Orophin yells and Haldir . . well your father simply goes away to understand his own feelings before speaking of them. He does not wish to hurt you will ill words. Do not take his leaving now as anything other than shock and surprise. She leaned forward and hugged him tightly putting her head against his chest. Give them time to . . accept what you have told them.
I did not just decide this. I . . I have been deciding this for a long time.
Why did you not tell one of us then?
I knew that you would not be able to hold from telling Orophin. She looked up and saw him blush slightly. I knew Orophin would react badly and end up telling ada, and I . . I'm afraid of what ada will say. He gave me so much and now I am . . I am just leaving. It is not as though I do not appreciate what he has done for me. What he has given me. . I just.
Dear one. She quieted and looked up to him. No one thinks any differently. It is natural to search for your own way, and it is more than natural to want to do that on your own. He smiled softly at her. Away from your family.
It will be the hardest thing I have ever faced. Leaving you and ada and Orophin, Lorien, everything. But. . I know, in my heart and mind that I must do it.
Then allow nothing to hold you back. Rúmil leaned down and kissed her forehead. Know that letting you go will be the hardest thing that any of us will do, in the past, present, or future. But know also that we knew that it would happen. All parents and families know this, we have just. . . refused to see that.
I do not wish to hurt any of you.
And we do not wish to hurt you. She sighed and moved her head back on his chest. I know that keeping you here would kill you, your spirit. Truth is, I have been expecting you to say something of the like for years now. Though I hope you will return to visit once and a while. She smiled and tightened her hold on him.
Whenever I can uncle, I promise.
Then I shall have to be satisfied with that. Come, I shall help you clear the table.
Haldir! Orophin's shout didn't stop his brother though. Haldir, wait. Haldir stopped and turned to look to his brother. She is just young and impulsive. Give her time to realize what she said and she will take it back.
Orophin, I need time alone. Please, leave me. Haldir turned and walked away missing Orophin's frown.
She will not leave. Orophin's statement was more to himself than any one else. He hesitated a moment before deciding to give his brother space and turned to find his own peace.
Haldir decided he needed to clear his head and walked toward the archery range. It had been a long time since restless thoughts had driven him there. As he reached it he cursed realizing he had left his bow and quiver at his Talan. Knowing Zinnia would most likely be there he hesitated on returning. Instead he sat down on one of the near by benches and put his head in his hands not knowing what to do. Her wanting to leave had taken him completely by surprise. Something that usually happened quite often with his daughter it seemed. Sitting up he ran his hand down his face and sighed leaning back against a tree.
What am I going to do now?
You are upset.
Surprised, Haldir's eyes snapped open at Galadriel's voice. Seeing her standing there before him he stood immediately. My Lady. I am sorry; I did not realize you were here.
Do not stand on my account. She motioned for him to sit again and took a seat next to him. No, your thoughts are very far from the here and now. She tilted her head slightly. Your daughter, she troubles you this eve?
I believe taking her to Imladris was a lapse in judgment. Haldir looked away as Galadriel raised an eyebrow. A ranger has put notions into her head.
Notions?
He has asked her to join him! I did not know when I met him that he would do such. He seemed nice; all of Imladris even seems to have a friendship with him. Yet he tries to…to-
Steal your daughter? There was a slight amusement in her tone that angered Haldir. He stood quickly and started pacing.
She…she is not leaving. There is no reason for her to go where she is not safe. It is folly to even think such. Yet now she says she will leave with or without my consent.
She would never leave without your consent. You are her father Haldir; she loves you too much to sneak away. To her leaving with anything less than your complete and total agreement would constitute a betrayal on her behalf. Have no worry for her going against your word.
Then she will stay. His shoulders sagged in relief and he sighed.
If you order it of her, she will stay. Galadriel stood and looked to Haldir for a moment. Come with me Haldir, I believe you must see something before you return to your daughter.
Haldir looked to her questioningly but followed her without hesitation. Galadriel had never led him astray before, and he knew that she never would. After a few minutes of walking he realized they were heading to her glade where she kept her mirror. When they reached to top of the steps he did hesitate. Never before had he been asked to look, and he knew for her to offer, would be important. He wasn't sure he wanted to look, afraid of what he would see.
It is your choice Haldir; I will not force you to look. Galadriel filled her silver pitcher before turning to face Haldir who had come down a few of the stairs.
I am unsure I want the answers that will be revealed.
Not many wish to know what they will see. She agreed with a small head nod as he finished going down the stairs. The mirror reveals nothing that should not be shown. Though it is your choice to gain the knowledge of what it would share.
What have you seen my Lady? Why do you bring me here now? Haldir watched as her only answer was to pour the water.
You shall know for yourself, should you look. She took a step back and turned her eyes to him.
He swallowed before moving forward. Knowing that if she deemed it important enough to show him, he should take her suggestion and look. As he leaned down over the mirror all he saw was his reflection. He was about to ask if he should do anything when the water started to ripple.
Immediately he recognized Zinnia's grubby face. She was completely filthy and her eyes were filled with such fear that he knew it was the night that he found her. She turned away from him and the image shimmered again. Once more she was dirty but she was running towards him with a large smile on her face holding some flowers. The angle switched and he saw himself pick her up and swing her around both of them laughing happily. Ripples distorted the pictures again and now instead of him swinging around a laughing child, Zinnia was the one turning. They fell back on the ground laughing and he saw that the child was a boy with dark blue eyes and dark hair.
He moved forward more as the images started changing again. Megilindir's face shimmered into view, only he was much older than he was now. Another man stood at his side, dark hair and dark blue eyes. He was smiling and as the image pulled back he saw a light haired woman standing next to him. It looked as though the young man and the woman were getting married. Another small child appeared only this time he was holding Zinnia's training bow and running around a glade that was in Lorien. As if the child knew he was being watched his face turned toward Haldir and he smiled widely. Haldir took in a breath when he saw that the child had the same eye color as Zinnia.
As more and more images flipped passed him, Haldir tried to understand what he was seeing. The changes were so fast that it was hard to see anything, though the child was in all of them. Imladris appeared, and Elrond's face, before it faded to another image. This time Arwen with a loving smile. Next was darkness, lit only by few torches. Lighting flashed and he realized it was orcs, an ocean of them. Light, The white city of Gondor, and then Arwen standing next to the grown child. A young boy was between them and the man was holding a girl who was hugging him and smiling towards Haldir. He recognized that smile as Zinnia's even as he recognized the man's eyes as his daughters.
Taking a step back Haldir tried to piece together everything he had seen. After a moment he looked up and met Galadriel's serene gaze. I do not understand what it is trying to show me.
You do not understand because you do not wish to. Just as you did not wish to see that she had grown beyond a child. Just as you do not wish to see that she is mortal. Galadriel frowned slightly when Haldir looked away. She decides not only her own path but others that are tied to her.
Megilindir. Haldir looked back to the clear water remembering the ranger's face.
He is but one that is tied to your daughter's path. His will either be with hers, or alone.
I did not see him with her. Haldir frowned when Galadriel raised an eyebrow.
Did you not?
No. Her fate…it lies here, in Lorien.
Ahh, one of her fates yes, though her destiny would lead her outside of these borders.
Her fate and destiny are here.
No they are not. Destiny and fate are two different things. Everyone has a destiny, though it can be unfulfilled. Fate is what is decided upon by our decisions. One has nothing to do with the other.
I will not allow her to leave. You said she would stay if I did not allow it. She is going to stay here, where she belongs.
You would deny her, her rightful destiny. Galadriel sighed. Haldir a flower, no matter how loved and cared for, will eventually fade and die without light.
There is light here, I would never deny her that.
Here she is shaded by not only the elves around her, but by the way she is treated, her limitations, her mortality. Galadriel paused as Haldir looked away from her. Beyond these walls is where her true nature will grow and blossom. You have laid the groundwork, but now she must be nurtured in a way that will be impossible by any here.
There is nothing out there that she can not have here.
Open your eyes and see how selfish you are being March Warden! Galadriel's anger finally showed through her calm mask. Taking a small breath she continued. She will not leave you physically if you say she can not. Her spirit though, her spirit will whither and fade. Do you wish to kill your daughter Haldir? For that is what you will do if you make her deny her destiny. If you deny her the one chance she will ever have at love, or adventure. She made sure he was looking to her before she continued. By forcing her to stay you are showing her that you lied to her.
I have never lied to her! Haldir's anger was almost palatable and Galadriel knew she had to break through it or he would listen to no one.
I thought all these years you wished to show her that you were not her master. You told her such, yet now you show her the opposite.
I am not her master! I am her father! She knows this and would never think otherwise.
If you order her to stay, tell me the difference between those two words. She knew she succeeded when he visibly flinched. Softening both her tone and her body language she went to him. You can not shield her from her mortality by keeping her here Haldir. She put her hands on his shoulder and he bowed his head, though she saw the tears that were falling down his cheeks.
You know your thoughts on the matter, but what of your daughters? Have you thought of what she must be feeling? Do you remember the first day you parted from her for longer than a few moments? The first day you left her at school? The fear she felt. She still feels that fear, though now maybe guilt as well. She sighed when Haldir looked up to her. Guilt in causing you and her family such pain. She did not make this decision lightly, and if you think she did you are a fool. She wiped his cheeks much as a mother would then kiss his forehead. Go speak with your daughter. Set this right, and remember what you saw tonight.
Yes My Lady.
Haldir climbed the stairs to the gazing platform with a heavy heart. Galadriel had been right about everything. He was being selfish, and that was hurting his daughter. Something he had always vowed he would never do. When he reached the top he easily saw her form. She was sitting down, leaning against a tree, her head tilted up to the stars. He knew that when he didn't find her at home she would be here. They had shared so many of their nights here. Her asking endless enthusiastic questions, him answering them with nothing but pleasure.
When he looked upon her face now though, he saw no pleasure, or excitement. What he did see saddened him, she was in pain and he berated himself for not noticing it earlier. A sudden flash of memory overcame him and he remembered the first night they spoke of the stars. She had been so frightened then, and the same fear was there now, though perhaps fear of loosing him instead of fear of him.
Do you have a favorite? He smiled slightly when she jumped and looked to him.
Ada. She trailed off and stood looking to him. I…I left some cheese and bread on the table for you. You did not eat much at dinner. She looked away and started fidgeting slightly.
Always so thoughtful my sweet. He moved forward and tilted her head up. What will become of me when you leave? He had meant it as an admitted that he was letting her go but knew she took it the wrong way when she started to cry.
I am sorry ada. She wrapped her arms around him. I will not leave if you do not allow me. I promise. I did not mean to be selfish or hurt you. He pulled her to him and put his cheek against her head.
I am the selfish one tinuamin. I have refused to see you for what you are, and not what I wished you to always remain. He looked to her when she pulled back slightly and looked up to him. I love you with my entire heart daughter. And that perhaps, is a detriment when it comes to me seeing you and not the image I have of you. A happy little ten year old is not the woman that stands before me. I must learn to realize that in both mind and heart.
I am sorry for my reaction. I am the one that has hurt you, and that is unforgivable. Because of my own fear, I reacted as I did. He smiled at her and pushed some hair behind her ear.
Your fear? She tilted her head slightly confused and he smiled leading them over to sit in their spot as they had come to call it over the years. Once they were situated he spoke again.
I fear for you leaving the safety here. I promised to always protect you aier, I can not do such when you are away from me. He sighed and looked up to the sky. You have endured so much evil already; I do not wish it to ever touch you again.
You will always protect me. She moved closer to him and put her head on his shoulder. The skills you have taught me not only with a sword and bow, but just the knowledge you have given me on everything. It will keep me safe.
I wish I could put my faith in such things. It will worry me, to have you out of my sight.
I will be safe. Megilindir is a fine warrior Ada. He will keep me safe in the wild, and I will return to you and tell you of my adventures. Of the places I have been.
At the very least. He smiled slightly and reached into his tunic pocket pulling out the parchment he had picked up at the Talan. I had thought to give these to you at solstice, though I feel they are more fitting in your hand now. She took the paper slightly confused and gave him a questioning glace before opening it.
Maps? Of Gondor. She turned through the others. All of middle earth. When she looked back to him he saw a hint of realization.
I had planned on a trip. Nothing like joining the rangers, though I had hoped you would enjoy it. I had not realized the want to explore ran so deep in you.
I…I did not know you had such planned. She looked to him surprised when he laughed.
Then Rúmil and Orophin were able to keep the secret. Truly I am surprised.
I'm sorry for ruining it Ada. She bowed her head not wanting him to see her tears any more.
You ruined nothing my sweet. Simply…gave the maps a longer life time of use. He gave her a small smile and wiped a stray tear off her cheek. Besides, without one of us here we both know either Rúmil or Orophin would manage to burn Lorien to the ground. He laughed and she joined in, and then hugged him tightly.
I love you ada.
I never had any doubt. And please never doubt that I love you.
I never have Ada, I never have. She sighed and relaxed but didn't take her arms from him. He moved slightly wrapping one of his own around her as they both turned their attention to the stars. Sing me a song Ada.
He chuckled. And what would you like to hear? She smiled softly.
One about elves.
As you wish my sweet.
Orophin sighed as he watched Zinnia pack her bag. It was the final time he would ever watch her do such and it pained his heart when he realized that. She looked over to him and gave a small smile before finishing. The day after she had announced her intentions, and the argument, Haldir had told him that she was leaving. It had been hard for him to accept, but eventually he had, and finally understood how much of an orc he had been. A few tears, hugs, and one cake later they had been able to move past it.
You do realize that with you gone it will be harder for me to escape Rúmil's cooking. He smiled as she laughed and turned to him.
You will just have to become more inventive.
That or my stomach shall have to grow stronger. He grinned and stood. I will miss you blossom.
I will miss you as well uncle. She moved forward and hugged him tightly. I will miss our talks, and you're making fun of Rúmil and Ada.
And I will miss your laughter and continual battles with all of us. He pulled back and smiled at her. You have grown to become a very beautiful and though somewhat arrogant, charming woman.
She laughed. I am what all of you have made me.
You make all of us very proud. He paused a moment. Close your eyes my niece. She looked at him strangely for a second but then did as he asked. You leave today, and though I know I will see you again, and that you could never forget me, your favorite uncle, she smiled at that. I wish to give you something to remember me by. He pulled her cloak on her and pinned it together. You may open your eyes now. She did and immediately looked down.
Uncle…it is beautiful. She slowly traced the pin he had given her. It was the shape of an Eleanor in full bloom.
It was the first flower that you ever gave me. And though I was made fun of by the others for having flowers in my hair, it is a memory I will always cherish. He smiled at her slight blush. Now come, your company leaves in less than half an hour and you still have more goodbyes.
She nodded and pulled her pack over her shoulders following him out the door. As they walked down the path many stopped and said goodbye. As a result it took them almost twice as long to reach their destination. Tears came to her eyes as she saw almost everyone in the city there, including Galadriel and Celeborn.
You are late! Rúmil shot a glare to Orophin as he took her hand.
Do not blame me. Orophin threw his hands up as he rolled his eyes. Rúmil only huffed and continued to walk.
I blame him. Rúmil smiled as she laughed. Oh I will miss you dear one! He hugged her. Who will cook things so I may say that I did?
She laughed and buried her face into the side of his neck. I love you uncle, and I shall learn new recipies for you to burn.
He laughed heartily and pulled back from her. Then you leaving shall not be for nothing. He sighed and kissed her cheek. Now go to your Ada. And here, I have made you some lembas. She took the bag with a grin and he laughed. Do not worry, Orophin was there to direct me so it will be edible.
Thank you uncle. I shall write as soon as I can. She kissed his cheek before going to Haldir who was speaking with Endil.
I shall wait at the gates for you Zinnia. Endil smiled and walked away giving father and daughter privacy.
You have everything?
Yes Ada. Zinnia smiled. He nodded and straightened her cloak. She moved and covered his hands with his. I have everything and am ready.
I know. He sighed. You are sure you do not wish me to accompany you to the borders.
No Ada, it will be easier to say goodbyes here. He nodded again and she smiled. Ada, I will write as soon as it is possible.
I know. He kissed her forehead and hugged her. I love you my sweet. And you shall return to visit as soon as possible as well.
She laughed and pulled him closer. I promise. A throat cleared and they pulled back.
I am sorry, but I can wait no longer. Endil fidgeted slightly obviously uncomfortable at having to break them apart.
Thank you Endil. Haldir nodded slightly. Goodbye my sweet. May your journey bring you all the happiness you can possibly find.
She only nodded not trusting herself to talk without starting to cry again. Slowly she turned and headed towards the gates. She knew that if she turned back she would see her father flanked by her uncles. When she reached the threshold of the gates she hesitated. Actually moving past that would be final, she knew she would not turn back. A hand settled on her shoulder and she turned slightly to see Endil.
The first step is always the hardest. If you can take that one, you can face anything in your path. Endil smiled at her before giving her shoulder a soft squeeze and continuing on. After another few seconds hesitation she took a deep breath and followed him. Leaving her family and heading towards her destiny.
Ada = father
Megilindir = blade singer
Tinuamin = my daughter
A/N: As far as the story Captured Heart is concerned, I am going to be jumping ahead and not following her to meet with Megilindir, nor any of the following adventures. Those will all be contained in another story of which I have not named yet. That story will be all about the missing years in Captured Heart, following Zinnia's days as a ranger. However, like I said in previous chapters, I want to finish with the Haldir centric parts of the story and therefore not putting them in this one.
As it stands right now, I don't know if I am going to start posting that story now during Captured Heart, or wait until Captured Heart is completed. I'm leaning towards waiting simply because I want to devote my energies to getting this story finished. Thank you again for all of your support!