Chapter 12:
Consequences of Choice
Mairen stared at the dress dumbfounded. "You can't mean for me to wear that!"
Loriel looked at the dress hanging from her arm with a confused frown. "Of course I do, it's one of my favorites! Don't you like it?" She laid the dress on the bed, spreading out the gauzy fabric over the coverlet. "I thought the color would suit you." She reached out to drag Mairen to the bed, pushing her to sit.
"Loriel, I can't wear that," Mairen insisted, drawing back as if the garment might bite her.
Loriel stepped back, her hand on her hips and stared at Mairen in amusement. "You are afraid of a simple piece of fabric?"
Mairen rolled her eyes, and tried to look serious. "I know you don't understand, Loriel. But that dress is simply scandalizing. I cannot believe you wear such things. You are a warden!"
Loriel smoothed the fabric between her fingers, caressing the softness. "Yes I am, but I am also female, and I enjoy pretties such as this. Do not tell me you have not longed for silk and satins at times to dress your body? To impress a handsome young Rohirran?"
Mairen sprang off the bed, backing away from the dress and Loriel. "Not in something like that!"
The elven maiden laughed. "I disagree. I think the Lady Eowyn attempted to force you into wearing similar dresses, but the Rohirrim designs are far too heavy. They hide more than they reveal."
Mairen ran a hand over her heated cheeks. "That is the general idea with clothes, Loriel."
The elf laughed again. "Haldir asked me particularly to bring you something to wear for the Lammas festival. I think, with hopes that I might convince you it is accepted for a warrior to allow herself to be a female as well. Come, you will make the March Warden stare all evening. You have already drawn his attention. Make of it what you will. Or are you afraid?"
Mairen scowled, spinning away from the elf and the tantalizing dress. "I understand what you are saying, Loriel. But in that garment I will be nearly naked."
"Indeed. And so will many others. Has Haldir not told you of this festival? It celebrates Lammas, the height of summer. Our lives of late have few joys and we must hang onto those we still have. Lammas is one. Many will tempt others, many will join tonight, and many will take lovers to their beds. What would you do?"
Mairen bit her lip. "I'll just sit and watch, thank you." She cringed as Loriel's laughter tinkled through the room.
"You are afraid. I have seen you walk amid the darkness showing no fear of orcs or such kind. And yet you fear the very body you possess. Silly Rohirran. Loosen up your tight hold on your reservations. Let yourself be free, Mairen. It may help you with your troubles, you know."
Mairen glanced at the dress, the sheer fabric glistening in the lamplight. "I will feel so exposed. I have never worn such a thing."
The elleth gathered the garment and brought it to Mairen, holding it up over her shoulders. "It is a wee bit long, but many like to have the gowns drag upon the ground. Galadriel is forever holding up her dress." She pulled one of Mairen's arms out wide to press the fabric against her. "Excellent. The yellow blends well with your skin tone, and brings out the gold in your eyes. I think your brothers would be hard pressed to recognize you once we are done."
Mairen heaved a great sigh as Loriel pushed her toward the bathing area where a large tub waited for her. "Indeed, Loriel, they will think I have truly gone mad. It has only been a week since Haldir returned from the border, and he has hardly strayed from my side. I fear he thinks I am going to keel over at any moment."
Loriel pulled several large cloths from a shelf and turned back to Mairen. "He said you have not much more time, Mairen. All the more to enjoy the festival tonight."
Mairen ran her hands through the warm water of the tub; the fragrance from the oils and salts Loriel threw in was heady. "You make it sound like I am going to die."
Loriel placed the towels on a small stool, and faced Mairen. "You don't know what will happen, Mairen. I think you will be fine, and you must believe this as well. Positive thoughts will keep the evil at bay."
Mairen pulled the tunic off her shoulders and stepped into the tub, sliding down as the warmth spread through her body. "Evil? Nay it's not evil, only frustrating. But you're right, Loriel. I should enjoy tonight." She slid down under the water; she would not be in Lórien much longer.
Haldir slid his dagger into his boot, the only weapon he would carry. The tall boots gripped his calves tightly, and the dagger fit snugly against his leg. His leggings were a deep bronze, and over them he wore a tunic Galadriel had given him only last year, a deep gold and green with such heavy embroidery it weighed more than his boots. The tunic was layered over his usual black undershirt, the silk rustling softly as he straightened from the chair.
What had Loriel brought Mairen, he wondered? Had she been successful in coaxing the Rohirran to dress in one of her gowns? He hoped so, anticipating the effect the elvish dress might have on her. Or would her Rohirrim upbringing force her to decline. He thought not, knowing Loriel's powers of persuasion. He could just imagine what his warden would pull out of her thin sleeve to manipulate Mairen.
The woman would not stand a chance. But yet, he knew she would see it as the challenge it was.
He drew the curtain back at the window, staring out into the dusky shadows of early evening. Already he could hear the singing as the festival preparations began. He allowed the drape to fall as a soft knock sounded on the door.
Rúmil bowed grandly, his arm sweeping out before him as Haldir opened the door. "Good evening brother. Orophin is sincerely upset to find his rotation on the fences due at Lammas. He thinks you may have had a hand in that. To my advantage, thank you."
Haldir moved past Rúmil, shaking his head. "The change of guard is as it was. I have not made any adjustments. I would have rather he been here as well."
Rúmil caught up, and glanced his way. "Why?"
Haldir sent Rúmil a troubled gaze. "Mairen grows close to her final test. I would have my brothers near when she does."
Rúmil's expression grew apprehensive. "You fear what will happen. You must hold faith Haldir. She has the strength of an elf, plus the stubbornness of the Rohirrim." He laughed softly. "What better combination can you find, brother? But I can send for Orophin?"
The elf skipped down the stair beside Haldir as he shook his head again. "Nay, he will return shortly at any point. It is best to keep things as normal as possible."
Rúmil's lips drew together as he studied Haldir. "I have heard that you invited Mairen to attend tonight. Do you not fear she may be scandalized? The Lammas festival often grows quite merry in the late eve."
Haldir smiled sardonically. "Merry is putting it quite mildly. I know not how she will see the event but I shall find it quite interesting to watch."
Rúmil laughed, dragging Haldir to a halt. "You will shock the woman. She has been brought up in Rohan, have you forgotten? A more uptight, stubborn folk could you find in all the lands of Arda, and you ask her to an elvish festival. She will cringe and be revolted at our open displays of love and frivolity."
Haldir's grey eyes glittered. "You underestimate Mairen, Rúmil. I have sent Loriel to her, and I am quite certain that she will attend, not as a Rohirran warrior but as an elf."
Rúmil stumbled, and then gazed at Haldir in surprise. "An elf? What do you mean? Loriel is lovely, and she has some …. Haldir, you don't think she will be able to get Mairen to wear some of those dresses she is famous for… Haldir!"
The March Warden laughed softly, hauling Rúmil further down the path. "If I know one thing about Mairen, she cannot resist a challenge. She has made enough comments that she is a warrior, and Loriel will know just what to say that will force her to prove she is more than that."
Rúmil's eyes twinkled. "You had better hope for your sake that she has only eyes for you, March Warden. Dressed in one of Loriel's gowns she will be certain to have many fawning over her tonight."
"She will, but I am not concerned."
Rúmil chuckled. "She does not wear a tag that states she is your property."
Haldir's glance was stern. "She is not property, Rúmil. But she will be mine."
Rúmil's fleeting look made Haldir's lips thin. "So you will reveal yourself to all tonight. Are you sure that is wise? Are you sure how she feels?"
Haldir stopped abruptly. "She will do what her heart wishes. But I will test the waters on how far she will go to show it, no?"
Rúmil leaned back to study Haldir. "I just hope the water is not too hot, Haldir."
Loriel opened the door to the bathing chamber and Mairen struggled with the urge to throw herself behind the door. The elleth's gasp reinforced Mairen's fear that she looked ridiculous in the filmy gown. The dress was made of four layers, the first a deep gold and subsequent layers fading in color until the top was pale saffron. The layers were not heavy, but made of a sheer diaphanous material that floated with every step. The dress did not hide much and such was her discomfort that Loriel had finally given in and brought her a thin silk chemise in another gilded color to wear underneath. But the undergarment only covered to the hips, leaving her legs bare and exposed under the filmy layers. She turned to face the elf, her face hot with mortification.
"I look awful. I am not meant to wear such things…" She stared at the elleth for Loriel had also changed and now wore a deep blue gown similar to Mairen's. The dress hung straight from her shoulders, her arms bare and beneath it Mairen could see the hint of bare skin, her shape hidden yet not hidden, as she moved. The elf's blond hair was down, crimped from her braids, and hung nearly to her hips.
"You look remarkable, Mairen," Loriel countered with an amused smile. "If I had not seen you with my own eyes I would not have believed you are the same woman as the one who wears a Rohirran blade."
Mairen glanced at the weapon where it leaned against the wall. "I find that far more comfortable to wear."
"Indeed, for it protects you. You are now left with only your mind and body. You have to learn to use those weapons as well. I see I will have to explain some things for you. Come we should work with your hair." The elleth drew Mairen to a seat in front of her mirror. Mairen stared at her reflection, blinking as for a moment green eyes seemed to stare back and then they were gone. Loriel gave her a curious glance and then drew her comb through Mairen's hair.
"Your coloring is darker than ours, yet full of warmth. Your have very heavy hair, Mairen. It must weigh much when wet."
Mairen nodded, closing her eyes against her reflection as not to see the thin dress. Loriel spoke softly, her voice a low murmur as she talked. Mairen drifted, keeping her mind blank and then her eyes flew open at Loriel's last words.
"Haldir is singing?"
The warden grinned. "Aye. He does often, especially at Lammas. It is a beautiful song he sings."
Mairen tried to imagine the tall warrior singing but the image eluded her. She shook her head, another surprise from the March Warden. "So what must I do, Loriel?"
The elleth pulled Mairen to her feet. "You will know. Do not be the coy maiden, take what you desire, Mairen. Life is too fleeting, especially for you. For us, with the years long in our hearts, Lammas allows us a moment of frivolity and freedom to play."
They stepped outside, the warm air fluttering their gowns as Mairen paused at the stair. "And afterwards?"
Loriel wrapped her arm around Mairen's waist. "And afterwards we bask in the memories. So make them delightful, Mairen."
Haldir was standing beside Galadriel when Mairen entered the glade where the festival was being held. He was dazzling, but Mairen did not have long to stare as Loriel saw him and drew Mairen behind a group of elves. Loriel smiled mischieviously and waved to the group as they turned as one to stare. An elf stepped forward, his green eyes appraising both females slowly.
"I would not have recognized you had Loriel not been with you, my lady." The elf bowed to Mairen. She could not remember his name but could see his gaze was warm with appreciation.
"Indeed, I believe the March Warden has been hiding a great treasure." Another elf took Mairen's fingers, kissing them eagerly.
Loriel's smile curled one corner of her mouth; in her finery she still exuded an air of strength. "You will find serious competition tonight, Erediweth."
The elf grinned, shrugging off her warning. "Haldir is the one who shall find himself hard pressed to gain access to the fair maid. This is Lammas. Welcome, Mairen of Rohan. I hope that I might find a moment at your side?"
Mairen found her fingers again in the elf's grasp as he kissed them lightly. She pulled back, fearing her face was red with embarrassment. She'd never had been fawned over like this. Perhaps they were only trying to be kind?
She began to voice that thought when Loriel drew her through the crowd swiftly, the elves parting with murmured surprise to allow them through. They weaved their way toward Rúmil, who stood at the back of the crowd, holding a goblet in one hand while he rested his arm on the shoulder of his tall companion. He wore a dark blue tunic that made the blond strands of his hair gleam as they lay against his chest and he laughed, his head cocked as he listened to the elf. Loriel called out and Rúmil turned toward them. He grinned in welcome but then Loriel drew aside, pulling Mairen forward and the grin faded slowly from his face. Rúmil sent a swift glance toward the Lady and Haldir in the distance, and then stepped forward with a decidely approving expression.
"Fair the gods, can it be Mairen who stands before me? I think the pot is boiling!" he mused, and handed his goblet to the stunned elf beside him. He reached out, grasping Mairen's hands to pull her into a tight hug.
Mairen was startled as Rúmil's lips pressed her cheek and then slid near her ear. "You are fire, and have warmed many a cold elvish heart, dear lady."
Mairen pushed out of his embrace, lifting her chin. "I am but an observer this day, Rúmil."
The warden lifted a brow and chuckled. "You will not be an observer for long, I swear. Will you refuse all requests for company? Or do you wait for one in particular?" He glanced at his companion as the elf pressed the goblet back into Rúmil's hand.
"She is only waiting for my invitation!" the elf declared and took a step toward Mairen but Rúmil's arm shot out and blocked his advance.
"I think not, fair Demieth. She has eyes for one taller than even you, and of broader shoulders."
Demieth pushed aside Rúmil's arm to bow toward Mairen. "Tell me this is not true? I am the one who can make your heart sing. I am not a course warden such as the one beside me. I can speak of fair days in words that …"
"She'll not even understand," Rúmil finished with a laugh and a wink. "Mairen speaks Sindarin without realizing it sometimes, but your poems in the high speech will fall on deaf ears."
"As they do on many, including yours, Rúmil," Demieth scolded. "Haldir said your studies in Quenyan were far lacking his."
Rúmil flashed the elf a wry look. "Indeed, what use have I for the high speech? I do not participate in the trappings of the festival rituals. I leave it for my brother in his exalted position as March Warden." He threw an arm over Loriel's shoulder. "Truly, warden of my heart, you have out done yourself. Is that not your dress?"
Loriel tilted her head, resting it against Rúmil's shoulder to study Mairen. "Indeed. Does it not suit her? I had a hard time convincing her it was acceptable to wear it."
Demieth shot Mairen an enthusiastic grin. "Well, I for one am delighted Loriel has such strong powers of persuasion. Even dressed in the dull green of warden tunics you have shown like a star that glitters in the velvet shadows of night…" he began, but was rudely interrupted by Loriel.
"Do not start, Demieth," she admonished, patting the crestfallen elf's shoulder. "You have as much chance as the next elf to garner Mairen's attention this eve, but the singing starts soon and we are not yet in place." She pushed him aside and caught Mairen's hand.
Demieth reached out to hold them back but Loriel only winked, drawing Mairen further through the crowd. Mairen looked back to see Rúmil laughing, shaking his head.
"Loriel, you are a wicked elf. I am dressed far different than many of the elves here. You are playing me for a fool."
The warden spun around. "Fool? I am the fool for standing beside you, silly Rohirran. My efforts at snaring someone will be challenging as it is. I did as I was asked. Do you not think Haldir was aware of what I tend to wear? He must have liked my gowns." She smiled blandly. "If you persist on complaining I shall leave you alone!"
Mairen gripped Loriel's arm. "Please do not leave me alone, not yet." She glanced around; indeed many were still staring at the two. She sighed, and then smiled. "I have not had so many glances turned my way. It is very overwhelming."
"It is empowering," Loriel corrected. "You have the ability to wield it as you will. Haldir has caught sight of you."
Mairen stiffened and whirled to face the area where Haldir was standing. He was not looking at her, but listening to the Lady. Galadriel was ethereal, glistening in a sheer white gown with sleeves that dripped over her fingers. Her hair curled around her waist, and the gilded crown on her forehead winked in the flickering light of the candles. Haldir bowed and then looked over his shoulder; his silvery hair shielding his face for a moment and then Mairen found his gaze was on her. The heat in his eyes made her feel faint, and she turned away to face Loriel again.
"What will you do, Mairen?" Loriel's smile was indeed wicked.
Mairen took a deep breath to steady her nerves and then returned Loriel's smile. "I think it's time to play cat and mouse."
Loriel laughed, shaking her head as she pulled Mairen through the crowd. "Just watch for the traps, mouse. They will be everywhere, do not doubt."
They finally stopped, and Loriel sat down on a low bench underneath a large tree. The center of the clearing was empty as the elves assembled near the outside, and then into the center Galadriel glided serenely, escorted as always by Lord Celeborn. The lord was exquisite in a silver tunic, nearly the same shade as his hair. It contrasted strikingly with his darker complexion, giving him a very exotic air. He bowed to Galadriel and released her hand, moving to stand a step away. Haldir followed, impressive in a gold and green tunic, hands folded behind his back, his stance relaxed yet Mairen could perceive a certain restlessness in the set of his shoulders.
Loriel leaned close. "He cannot wait to be away. This is very difficult for him, you know. He does not welcome this aspect of his duties. Although he sings very fine." The elleth pulled Mairen's hand into hers to squeeze it. "I admire him for his skills, Mairen, but also for the depth of his convictions, and his loyalty to duty. He is very noble and even though I tease, do not make the mistake of thinking I do not hold him the highest esteem."
Mairen smiled, her gaze still on the handsome elf. "Indeed, from the start I could see your respect." She grew silent as Galadriel lifted her hand.
The crowd grew instantly quiet. The Lady raised her other hand and lifted them toward the sky. "Blessed Elbereth," she intoned quietly, yet her voice rang out in the forest. "May thee honor our festival this eve, allow us to pay tribute to you and all the Valar." She began to sing, her voice melodious, a soft whisper that wrapped around Mairen, drawing her into the song. The woods seemed to bow toward the Lady, the trees suddenly silent in the evening breeze, as if they too held their breath.
The candlelight flickered, fireflies winked through the clearing and time seemed to drift to a halt, the flames stilled, the tiny insects held in place, their green lights blinking as Galadriel continued to sing. Around her Mairen could feel the pull of the words, drawing forth the magic of the wood into the clearing. She wrapped her arms around her chest, feeling the brush of something against her skin. She had forgotten about the elve's magic. She had been healed, seen Haldir healed, but yet here was an actual manifestation of their powers.
The air crackled, the light of the candles flaming brighter as Galadriel continued, drawing out what Mairen could only name as an essence of the wood. The smell of the forest wreathed her head and she closed her eyes, feeling the tension that circled the clearing. This was a part of her; inside her was a link to this magic. Mairen shivered, tightening her grip on her arms, inside of her lay part of this heritage.
A new voice joined Galadriel's; a deeper tone that soon remained alone and Mairen opened her eyes to watch Haldir sing. He stood with eyes closed, his words unfamiliar to her, yet she could sense the song was one of admiration for the wood, for the trees seemed to sway in time with the melody. His voice was strong, echoing in the clearing, and she sank back, spellbound by the harmony of his words. Around her voices began to chime in, and she blinked to see many had risen to gather around the center of the clearing, encircling the three. Round the elves went, linking hands and dancing to the sway of Haldir's song.
Loriel left her to join the growing ring, and Mairen sank back, caught tight in the hold of the magic, yet unwilling to participate. She feared the magic as much as she was held in its sway, but found her choice taken from her as Rúmil swept beside her, grasping her hand to pull her forcefully into the ring. Hands clasped hers, and she was suddenly engulfed in a dizzying array of sensation. The elves were a conduit, the enchantment binding them together. Mairen felt like she was floating, her thoughts swept aside as a wave of elation rushed through her, empowered by the magic of Galadriel and by Haldir's song. The elves lifted their voices in ringing harmonies that left her breathless and grasping for a solid anchor as she was enveloped within their circle.
She suddenly found herself staring at Haldir, his grey eyes glittering as he faced her, the ring of elves now broken into smaller circles as musicians began to play a livelier tune. She realized he was gripping her arms; her anchor as she sagged from the sensations of the magical circle. Loriel cut between them with an impish smile, drawing Mairen out of Haldir's grasp and into another smaller circle. They whirled away, leaving the March Warden staring after them with such a fierce expression that Mairen grew anxious that Loriel would find herself in serious trouble.
Loriel laughed, unfazed by the threatening glare. "I have done what I can," she said, waving away Mairen's concerns. "The game is now yours." She stepped out of the ring, and Mairen lost sight of her as the elves drew back together, sweeping Mairen into their dance.
Mairen found it only took a quick glance, a gaze met to find another elf sweeping her along into the next link. The steps came to her unconsciously and she spun, from circle to circle, part of a weaving chain that kept the clearing humming with energy. She evaded the circles that swept around Haldir, for he still stood within the center of the dance, as did both Galadriel and Celeborn, surrounded by the elves as they weaved around them.
The music faded, until a single instrument reverberated inside the wood, a low undertone of accord with the forest. The wooden flute's melody began low then sprang into breathless high harmonies, a transcendence of the soul, calling to the elves. Mairen swayed as she was suddenly freed from the tight embrace of her partner to find another set of hands enveloping her waist tightly. Strong and familiar, her eyes flew open to find it was Haldir who swung her around, lifting her up into the air only to set her on her feet. He wrapped his hand firmly around hers drawing her into the next circle, ignoring the normal change of partners. He drew her forward, his gaze challenging her to oppose him.
The music enfolded them, and she felt as if the energy of the wood flowed through Haldir as his fingers gripped hers tightly. He slid an arm around her back and swung her through the next circle, entering the ring and whirling her around as the elves danced around them. His grip was tight, nearly painful, pulling Mairen back from the haziness of the magic.
She stared at him for his eyes gleamed with a boldness she had not seen him reveal. What did he intend she wondered suddenly, pushing away a sudden thrill of nervousness that fluttered in her stomach. They circled, their hands held high as the elven ring around them danced merrily, the mood now festive, the elves laughing as they sang. Haldir dropped his arm, but did not release her hand. He pulled her toward him, slowing his steps until they stood still, encircled by the cheerful elves around them.
"What games do you play tonight, Mairen?"
She smiled, stepping back away from him, better to gain a breath at the heated look he was giving her. "Games, Haldir? I only dance as I was asked."
Haldir lifted his chin, his silver eyes narrowing as Rúmil appeared, and wrapped an arm around both Haldir and Mairen. "Delightful singing as usual, brother. But I have promised Mairen this dance." He grabbed Mairen's hand, whisking her away quickly through the throng of dancers.
Mairen dared not look back at Haldir, and laughed as Rúmil swung her into his arms, joining a circle as far from Haldir as they could get.
Rúmil grinned. "Loriel said you might like to be rescued. Have I done well?"Mairen squeezed his hand as she was spun in a circle. "He is going to be furious."
Rúmil laughed. "Indeed, he is livid, his gaze is smoldering as we speak. But I fear you will take the brunt of his displeasure, fair Mairen. Can you handle the flames?"
She sighed, weaving under his arm to sneak a quick glance at Haldir who was moving slowly toward them. Determinedly toward them, ignoring the amused looks passed his way, his gaze trained on her.
Mairen swallowed, suddenly filled with trepidation.
Rúmil gave her a curious look, and peered over his shoulder. "Ah, he stalks. He can be very frightening when he is set on a particular course."
Mairen pulled her hand from Rúmil's. "I think I shall end this dance, Rúmil. Thank you." She stepped back as Rúmil bowed slightly.
"You flee, little bird?"
Mairen took another step back, noting Haldir was gaining, the dancers now moving out of his way. "Nay, Rúmil, only changing tactics." She blew him a kiss, and with a last worried glance at Haldir slid out of the group of dancers and fled into the crowded edges of the clearing.
Haldir watched Mairen disappear into the crowd. Rúmil's gaze was amused as he waited for Haldir to reach him.
"You frightened the poor maid away. You should not stalk your prey so boldly."
Haldir's chin rose slightly. "Not true, Rúmil. I would have it known exactly my intentions for this evening. The obstacles drop from my path quickly with that knowledge."
Rúmil laughed. "Mairen has no hope to withstand you. Be gentle Haldir."
Haldir smiled lazily and threaded his way into the crowd. He caught sight of Mairen briefly, as a golden-haired sentinel cornered her, and then she saw him and backed away, spinning into the crowd again. The sentinel clasped a hand on Haldir's arm as he moved past.
"Your mouse moves quickly Haldir. You will need to pounce soon. Once beyond the clearing the magic will disperse, and she will not be such an easy catch."
Haldir shrugged off the elf's grip. "She is not an easy catch, no matter. The magic has nothing to do with it."
The sentinel frowned. "She means much to you then, if you take this beyond the festival."
Haldir met the elf's gaze, his silver eyes a sharp edged blade. "This began long before the festival."
The elf raised a brow and stepped back. "It is not my place to stand in the way of the Valar's will. I will aid you if you like."
Haldir began to reject his offer and then changed his mind. Perhaps it might be better to draw Mairen away before the evening indeed grew ardent. Already many couples had formed and the dancing had taken on a different feel. He nodded and the sentinel smiled, disappearing into the crowd as well.
Mairen's yellow dress flashed across the clearing and Haldir smiled.
Mairen didn't want to look behind her, sensing the elf stalking her well enough by the glances that were quickly turning her way. Something had changed in his pursuit, and she found her nerves were now clamoring, her stomach clenched with nervousness.
She was out of her league, had pushed far beyond her comfort zone in dealing with him. But she had begun the game. She must play it out, for whatever its worth. She'd enjoy a kiss, if not more. It was what she wanted… wasn't it?
She hurried past a group of elves, and then froze as two stepped into her path. They both smiled but their eyes held her still.
"Such hurry, my lady. Do you leave so soon?"
Mairen could sense Haldir closing in. She smiled at the two elves. "Leaving? Of course not, but I do need to get past."
The elf on the right grinned. "The March Warden seems intent on gaining your side. Does he not, Elweth?" the elf asked his companion.
Mairen resisted the urge to look behind her. "Of course he does. But it is not yet time."
Elweth's brow rose into his hair, the tresses a darker blond than many she'd seen. "Not yet time? Do you play games with the captain?"
Mairen stared at the elf, something about his voice seemed familiar. But she didn't have time to try and remember. She had to get past. She moved a step closer, and gave them both a fluttering glance, laughing at the sudden image of her doing so. "Of course, I have eluded the elf all evening, you have seen it."
"Indeed," the first elf agreed. "I think few have not noticed your efforts."
Mairen gripped his arm, leaning against the taut muscles. "Do you think Haldir wants an easy catch? I have made my plans, and now you stand in my way."
The elf looked surprised. "You play a dangerous game, Rohirran. You have no idea of who you deal with."
She finally glanced behind her, sensing her time was growing very short. "Dangerous, for whom, my lord? If you would but let me pass?"
The elf stepped aside but Elweth caught her wrist for a moment. "Be careful, the magic of the glade gives one false perceptions. What you feel right now may not be truly what is in your heart. Or do you enjoy leading the March Warden on? You may not like what you get, if he catches you." The elf's tone seemed annoyed, but why?
She met Elweth's gaze evenly he seemed so familiar. "I know what I want." She glanced quickly behind her. "I just don't know yet what the March Warden wants."
The two elves looked at each other and then past her shoulder. "I think it is very obvious what the March Warden wants," Elweth said mockingly. "But will you give it to him?"
Mairen pulled her arm free with a frown. Why was the elf so upset, his whole demeanor seemed angry? Had she known him in the past? She had no time to consider more as she pushed past them and fled deeper into the forest.
Mairen leaned against a tree, breathing heavily. The wood was dark, the dim glitter of the clearing only a faint glimmer in the distance. She had stumbled, nearly fallen twice, but found the path finally, and now stopped to catch her breath, and something else.
She sensed Haldir a brief second before his arm snaked out to grab her, and she whirled placing the tree between them.
"The game grows old, Mairen."
She peeked around the tree and then spun around the opposite direction, knowing he would reverse direction as well. He did just that, but she was ready and hurled herself against him, rather than away as he expected. Haldir backed against the tree, his hands firmly on her hips as she pressed her hands on his chest. She was sprawled against him, her feet nearly off the ground, which he did not seem to notice and they stared at each other for a moment.
"Old, Haldir? This is the oldest game in the world. But I thought to try a new tactic," she said breathlessly.
Haldir smiled, his grey eyes sparkling. She wondered how she could tell, for the night was dark, only the moonlight spilling off the leaves and reflecting off the grey barked trees gave any light. She brushed away the thought and focused on the elf.
"Change of tactic. What is this tactic?" Haldir asked in amusement.
"Did you think I would evade you all night?"
"The thought did cross my mind," Haldir admitted.
Mairen smiled, aware fully of the sinewy body she pressed against. "Much more interesting to keep you guessing."
"And if I had given up?"
Mairen slid her hands around his neck, leaning against him. His hair was silky, the strands sliding through her fingers. "But you did not."
Haldir's hands slid lower, bracing her against him. "No, I did not. And so?" He left the question hanging in the air.
Mairen answered with her lips, trembling suddenly as his hands swept up to her face, pulling her closer. She could feel his heart, beating beneath her, his body suddenly tense as he kissed her. He straightened, bending her back to fit snugly against him as his lips caressed hers. Their bodies seemed to nearly meld together, his breath warm against her cheek as his kissed the line of her jaw.
"You are certain of this?" His voice was deeper than she had she had heard it, laced with a trace of concern.
He kissed her neck and then her lips again as she sighed in breathless delight at the sensations that were now fluttering along her nerves. She was warm, nay hot then cold, shivering and then flushing with warmth the next. She had a few lovers in the past but none made her feel as she did now, with only the touch of his lips. She refused to dwell on it, knowing how quickly her thoughts could turn inward, spoiling the moment.
Mairen took a deep breath, taking a step back. His hands dropped at his sides, his gaze heated yet also guarded. "We are not in the glade anymore," she said quietly. "I was told the magic disperses once outside the circle."
Haldir's eyes slid over her slowly. "Aye, it is true. So then have you changed your mind?"
Mairen felt like her heart was going to burst, it pounded so wildly in her chest. Had she? No, she wanted the elf, now, no matter the consequences. Perhaps she would not survive the merging of her thoughts; perhaps her life would be cut short as Seothlindë's was. She wouldn't miss this chance, if anything, it would be a memory to keep her warm at night, back in the chill of winter on the plain. She would remember him, as he was tonight, Elf from his polished boots to the silver streaked golden hair. An elf whose slate-grey eyes were bland, his control supreme as he waited for her decision, leaving her to decide this night's madness.
She traced the embroidery on his chest, the whorls of lines organic and intricate. He stood still and only stared as she stepped closer, sliding her fingers lower over the stitching. "I don't know who or just what I will become, Haldir. You have offered me great kindness. You have awakened feelings I have never had before. Would I be a fool to deny what my heart wants? But what of the consequences? Do I need to concern myself as to what might occur afterwards?"
He frowned, clearly confused. "Elves have the ability to . . ."
She pressed her fingers over his lips with a smile. "I have heard that. It is not what I mean. Will my time with you affect my memory? I will be honest, I am afraid, Haldir. I know the final days are at hand for me, and I wonder if somehow this will trigger …
It was his turn to cover her lips, but he did so with a heady kiss that erased the thoughts from her mind. She felt her knees melting, the sultry warmth growing deep in her belly.
"I do not know when it will happen, does it matter? I shall be there whenever it occurs." He lifted her into his arms as she slid her hands behind his neck. "But the night lies long before us, will you accept what I have to offer?"
She snuggled against his chest. "Yes, I decided that long ago. I just didn't know if you felt the same way."
Haldir's arm tightened. "Then we have wasted too much time. But you are sure?"
Mairen tilted her head back so she could see his eyes. "It's my decision?"
Haldir's mouth curved slightly, the grey eyes warm as he met her gaze. "Indeed, but I would have it made without any influence from me or our magic."
Mairen looked back toward the glitter of the clearing. "I know what I want. And I am free to make my choice, there is no magic blinding my decision."
The glade was misty, tendrils of fog trailed around the trees, diffusing the sunlight as it slanted through the trees. Haldir sat up, his hair sliding down his bare back as he curled an arm around Mairen, pulling her against his chest. Mairen had whimpered softly and lay limp in his arms as he held her.
"Mairen?" he caressed her cheek and her eyes fluttered open, but they were dark with pain.
"Haldir?" she began but then squeezed her eyes shut as a shudder ran through her. Had she been right and their joining the beginning of her final trial? He moaned softly as she curled up, trembling against him.
"Mairen, we must get you back to your talan. Can you stand?"
She blinked, her face growing even paler as he watched. He cursed softly and laid her gently on the ground. He should have been stronger; he'd let his desires rule his actions. Was she truly ready, or had he pushed her into an deed she was not prepared for?
Haldir pulled on his boots swiftly, ignoring the tunics lying on the ground and wrapped Mairen in her dress. He lifted her into his arms as she moaned and wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Haldir, don't leave me."
"I will be with you, Mairen. Hold fast."
She seemed to relax, but Haldir hurried out of the glade and into the city.
Celeborn leaned over Mairen, brushing aside the sandy brown hair that fluttered over her cheek. She was very pale, her skin nearly translucent. They had known the final test would be hard for her, but his heart ached at the depth of her pain. They had watched as she thrashed, held down at times by Haldir, watched as she cried out in agony. The effect on his March Warden was tangible in the drawn expression the warden now held, sitting beside the bed for the third day.
"She sleeps, Haldir."
Haldir's expression remained bleak. "Are you sure, Celeborn? She has not moved an inch in two days."
The elven lord ignored the warden's despair. "She sleeps," he insisted. He straightened, and moved beside the March Warden to grip his shoulder. "She chose to lie with you Haldir, knowing somehow what might come of it. Do you not consider this was as it was meant to be? The Valar act in mysterious ways, we are often led to actions by their hand."
Haldir's grey eyes were skeptical. "I don't know that I believe that. I fear I pushed her into the decision. It was I who asked Loriel to persuade her to come to the festival. Had she not, this would probably not have happened yet. I fear she was not fully prepared."
Celeborn tightened his grip on Haldir's shoulder, forcing the March Warden to look up. "She had the choice. Do not demean her decision by such thoughts, Haldir. She came to you, fully aware of the magic of the circle. She came to you outside the glade, conscious of what she was about to do."
Haldir sighed, nodding shortly. "You are right. She led me well, as I think she intended. But I still fear it was too soon."
Celeborn released Haldir's shoulder and stepped back to gaze at Mairen. "I do not agree. She has been ready for several weeks. Her decisions made, her choice to go on. She will return to Rohan, Haldir."
The March Warden's eyes grew impassive; Celeborn watched the elf draw the curtain over his emotions. "I am aware of her choice."
The elven lord slid his hands into his sleeves. "We cannot force her to stay. She must find her place. What she learns in her sleep, and why she has returned may alter that decision, but you must face the fact that she may not choose to stay here."
Haldir's lips drew together, but it was the only reflection of his thoughts. "She will go where she will. I have asked her to stay..."
"But she did not answer," Celeborn finished quietly. "Because she did not know if that is where she belonged. Give her time to find out Haldir. Have faith the Valar did this for a reason."
"Perhaps she has already finished the tasks the Valar had for her."
Celeborn met the silver gaze with an amused one. "If that were so, Haldir, why would she need you to complete her transformation? Seothlindë was adamant she belonged at your side. Not for a day, or a few years, but as a part of your life. Do you not think Mairen has that same sense?"
Haldir stared at Celeborn. "I will keep that thought near to my heart, my lord. It is my only hope."
Elweth wiped the sweat from his brow with his sleeve, the heat from the foundry made breathing difficult, yet he drew closer to the fire, sliding the long metal rod into the flames. Sparks shot out, dancing over the stone floor yet Elweth ignored them, wiping his forehead again as he held the steel firmly. Only for a few more minutes and the metal would be pliable to shape once more. How many times had he performed this action, thousands upon thousands, and yet it still gave him pleasure. To create something that was both functional as well as beautiful was the very nature of his life. He withdrew the rod and brought it quickly to the large anvil and laid it gently on the stone. He picked up the heavy mallet, and with the ease of long practice began to pound the rod flat.
It took him several moments to realize he had an audience and he paused in the motion of slamming the hammer down again when he saw her.
"Loriel?"
The elven warrior stepped out of the shadows. "I have always admired your skill, Elweth. Watching you work is fascinating."
Elweth gave her a skeptical glance, pounding the metal a few more times. He set aside the mallet and plunged the still glowing metal into a large vat of water. The steam rolled off the water, hissing as the molten metal cooled quickly. "Interesting comment, warden, since you have never spoken of this before."
"Some things are better left unsaid, until the time is right."
He pulled the now grey metal out of the water and laid it back on the anvil. "Indeed? And what makes this the right time?" He picked up his hammer, and began to pound the metal again, forcing the steel to harden.
Loriel watched patiently. He paused sending her a questioning glance and she smiled. "I was waiting until the day you realized Seothlindë was truly gone."
Elweth stiffened and dropped the mallet onto the steel blade and turned to stare at the tall warden. "Seothlindë has been gone for years."
"So you thought, Elweth. But the news of the Rohirran, and the thought of her holding the fëa of an elf made you think twice. You were there the day she brought Haldir home, nearly dead. I saw you watching her with such intensity it made me wonder. What did you see in her, Elweth, that told you she held Seothlindë's soul?"
Elweth clenched his jaw. "You are mistaken, I saw nothing." He turned back to the anvil and picked up his hammer. Loriel's hand dropped over his, holding him still. He drew himself up, glaring at the warden. "Let go, Loriel. I have work to do."
The elleth smiled lazily. "I am not leaving until you explain, Elweth. I want to know what you saw. You see, it's important to me, and it will be to Haldir if I tell him how you pursued the fair elf when you went to the Havens with Haldir. Cirdan was thrilled with the sword Galadriel commissioned from you, and you in turn were fascinated by a harbor warden who had eyes for someone else."
"I did nothing. Haldir has nothing to be concerned about."
Loriel lifted a brow mockingly. "No? The March Warden may not have cared that you coveted Seothlindë, for she did not interest him more than a momentary fling. While you wished her to see you as she saw Haldir. But now, with the information that the Rohirran carries that same elf inside her head, that she is truly Seothlindë reborn, your mind rushes to think that perhaps she may accept you instead. I have waited for you to approach her but you hold back, why?"
Elweth laid his hammer gently on the anvil and turned to pick up a cloth to wipe his face, using the moment to gather his thoughts. It was impossible that Loriel has seen through him so clearly. But her words rang only too true.
"From the moment she carried Haldir on her horse, nearly dead, I knew she had not changed." Elweth folded the towel neatly, placing in on top of his hammer. "Seothlindë was adamant about Haldir, yet it did not stop her from playing games with me. If you know so much, Loriel, tell me how she treated me?"
Loriel smile faded, her eyes dropping to the floor. "She was cruel, I know. I saw it. You wonder how I know so well?" she laughed, a brittle sound that echoed off the stone foundry, amid the crackle of the fires. "As you watched Seothlindë, I watched you. So many years, Elweth, so many times that I started to speak out, to tell you how I felt, yet your eyes would turn inward and I knew you were thinking of her. What was it that settled so deeply into your heart?"
Elweth gazed thoughtfully at the warden. Had he been so self-absorbed? Loriel was well known, her skills and talents as a warden immeasurable. He'd made her the sword she carried with pride. "She was cruel. She gave me hope, then dashed it the next moment when she would speak about how she would live with Haldir. How she was meant for him and him only. Yet it was me she kissed, and more if I would have pressed it further."
Loriel drew back, her lips thin. "And you hoped to continue this with Mairen? Do you like such torture?"
"For a moment I hoped it might be different. That she would allow someone else inside her heart. But it was only a moment. Seothlindë was right, she was meant to be with Haldir, and now it is Mairen who has taken her place."
"How did you know, Elweth?"
He grasped Loriel's arm, sliding his hand to her wrist to trace the veins on the inside of her arm, and then over the palm of her hand. Loriel watched him calmly, very still. He glanced at her with an amused smile. "You have excellent nerves, as I guessed. Mairen, nee Seothlindë had strong nerves as well, except for one habit, a very frustrating problem for a warden. Her hands tremble when she is nervous. She always was clenching her hands, or thrusting them behind her or folding her arms. But that was my second clue."
Loriel pulled her arm back as Elweth frowned. "Haldir would have seen it had he bedded the elf, but he did not. Nor did I," he amended as Loriel's eyes narrowed. "But I did see her without her boots one day. She had gone to the shore, playing in the surf, as she liked to do. We sat on the edge of the sea, in the water and she showed me a mark upon her ankle. A strange mark that was different than any I'd seen before."
Loriel eyed him curiously. "Many are born with birthmarks, Elweth. I have a faint one on my hip."
Elweth sighed dramatically. "Yes, but no two are alike, Loriel. Except for Mairen's and Seothlindë's. They both have the same mark. When I saw Seothlindë's I did not realize what it was. But after I came to Lórien, I recognized the shape. They both have a mark that looks like a leaf, a mallyrn leaf. Small, not usually noticeable, but prominent enough that it caught my attention. When Mairen first came here she went to Haldir's talan. She fell asleep while she was waiting. I came in with Orophin, to gather Haldir's weapons. We covered her with a blanket but not before I saw her ankle. It was the same mark, Loriel. I would swear it."
"I believe you. I saw the mark before Lammas as well. But thought nothing of it."
Elweth reached out, gripping her arm. "It took me only moments to realize that she was Seothlindë, yet she was not. As soon as I heard that she was ill, with headaches and visions I knew I was right."
Loriel's eyes narrowed. "Why did you not speak to Galadriel?"
"Why, what good would it have been? They already had some suspicions. She carries too many traits that belong to elves." He released her arm and went back to the anvil and the waiting steel. He picked up the metal and shoved it deeply into the fire. The flames crackled, snapping at the blade. Elweth stared at it for a moment. "I hoped for a new chance, but I realized that it was futile. I wish it no more. But I fear she is still like Seothlindë. She plays games with Haldir like she did with me."
Loriel waited until he pulled the steel out of the oven, and had pounded it flat. Did she realize he hit it harder than he needed to? He lifted the metal staring at the blade in frustration. He was ruining it, taking his anger out on a simple object. And also on Loriel. It was not her fault.
"She is not Seothlindë, Elweth. Her game with Haldir was a very serious one, for her choice that night had grave consequences. I think she knew that, but she still pushed on. Had Haldir known what would happen, he would have never agreed. Have you seen her? She lies still as death. Haldir has not left her talan for days."
Elweth dropped the blade into the vat of water, ignoring it. "I did not know, Loriel. Will she come out of it?"
"Lord Celeborn seems to think so. But I had hoped something in what you knew would aid her."
Elweth shrugged. "I do not know, Loriel." He watched the warden sigh and turn away. "I am sorry to have not seen your despair. Would that you could forgive me and perhaps give me a second chance?"
Loriel stiffened and did not look back, but Elweth smiled at her answer. "I would like that, Elweth."