Not One Of You
By FlamingRebirth
Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings
"Speaking in Elfish."
*Galadriel speaking mentally to Haldir*
A/N: Before I begin I just want to say thanks to Ask-stories for putting up with my rambling which eventually helped me decide the name for Haldir's horse!
Chapter Three: A Grand Partnership
"When we secure the reins we leave a small gap between the face and head collar so that it is not too tight. The last thing we wish is for our horses to suffer." Haldir nodded already aware of that fact but choosing to remain silent. "Let's go see your new horse and teach you first hand on how to handle and saddle him." Haldir nodded again and followed the twin elves and his tutor back into the stables where his new horse awaited.
The horse's nose flared as it smelt its partner approach; he listened to its hoof grind against the floor in impatience. Haldir smiled quietly as a white muzzle stretched towards him as the horse whinnied in happiness at seeing him. Haldir gently rubbed the horses muzzle as he took a halter from one of the twins. The twin took in a breath to begin telling him how to put it on the stallion, but Haldir simply slipped the halter, the stallion stayed quiet happily allowing Haldir to secure the halter behind his ears and tighten the buckle. Haldir slipped a finger between the halter and the stallion's face and smiled softly at the comfortable gap, before clipping a lead line onto it.
"You catch on well." The twins replied completely oblivious to the fact the Haldir did in fact know how to handle horses. His smile secretly at the horse, catching Glorfindel's eyes out of the corner of his own. The elf had caught on that he knew how to handle horses and was watching in amusement. Haldir opened the gate and led the horse out of his stable. He was expecting the horse to trot out and tug at his lead line but the stallion quite happily nibbled at his cloak as he walked at a sedate pace. "Now we need to groom him in preparation for the saddle pad and saddle." Haldir held in a chuckle as he took the brush offered by the nearest twin. His eyes twinkled in silent amusement as he met the amused stares of both his horse and his tutor. With the un-needed, but amusing instructions from the twins, he gently brushed down the handsome stallion's fur. When the fur was soft and had a beautiful clean shine to it, Haldir stopped and gently placed the saddle pad onto his back, he watched and waited for the horse's reaction, but the stallion simply flicked his ear back as he rested one of his hind legs. Haldir chuckled at the relaxed horse before lifting up the saddle with Glorfindel's help and securing it onto the horses back. He tightened it and ensured that there was enough of a gap for it to be comfortable on the stallion. With the job done he lowered the stirrups to the level he used. Now all that was left was the bridle, which the stallion quietly accepted with no complaint.
"Well done. Now let's get you into the saddle, first let us find somewhere for you to stand… You know how to ride, don't you?" The twins stared in dawning realisation as Haldir stared down at them from his stallion's back. Whilst they had spoken he had simply gripped the saddle, placed his foot into the stirrup and pulled himself up and over. The stallion made a horse-like chuckle, his deep chest vibrating beneath him as Glorfindel finally laughed. Haldir chuckled and nodded. The twins glared. "And when were you going to tell us?" Haldir laughed and shook his head. "You weren't going to tell us? Well let's see if you're as good as you say you are."
Haldir laughed and guided his stallion to follow the annoyed elves. The twins led him to a fenced area, it was brown ground, it was once soil but the heavy beats of the horse's hooves had solidified the ground into a platform surrounded by fences. Haldir easily trotted around the outer area getting used to the new horse and equipment before pulling to a stop in front of the twins and his tutor. He followed their instructions to the letter, focused solely on adapting to his stallion. The animal was very prideful and liked to show off, he pranced when he could and often trotted, Haldir had a difficult time calming the stallion, but soon the male got the hint and calmed. The animal was fleet of foot, turning with such ease that Haldir thought he was sitting upon wind. The stallion was a joy to ride, following every command with such obedience and loyalty that Haldir was quietly astounded as such loyalty from an animal, the horse would stop within seconds of him pulling the reins back and landed with such ease after a jump that Haldir barely felt it at all. The twins who had been guiding him before had simply leant back and watched as Haldir easily and quickly guided the stallion around the small area as if they'd been partners their whole lives. Finally Haldir pulled to a stop feeling so much better, it felt as if his troubles had gone and the only things that mattered were the horse and himself.
"You are a natural. Have you given any thought to his new name?"
Haldir paused, staring down at the black mane of the animal beneath him. The horse shifted on its feet eagerly awaiting its new name. Haldir frowned as he considered what he would like to name the horse, to be perfectly honest with himself he was still not keen on naming the stallion, not with Ishtar waiting for him back home. Haldir quietly sighed. He felt like a ghost in this world. He wasn't one of these people and he doubted he would ever truly adapt to this world. Besides he did not want to be attached to this world, he had every intention to return home. Perhaps he had a name for the stallion after all. Phantom, Haldir smiled, that sounded right. That's how he felt, like a phantom of this world, eager to return to his own. The horse would be named Phantom.
'Phantom' neighed in pleasure as he heard his name in his master's mind through the bond they now shared. Haldir chuckled as he focused on the twins and his tutors, who were smiling at the horse's obvious pleasure. "I see you have come to a decision, young one. May I have the honour of knowing this stallion's new name?" Glorfindel asked as the stallion danced on his hooves, Haldir chuckled, allowing the horse a few moments of prancing before tightening the reins and forcing the stallion to stop.
"I've named him phantom." Haldir answered.
"May I ask why you've named him Phantom?" One of the twins asked.
Haldir glanced at the one who had spoken, chuckling at his thoughts, he had yet to know who was who and was constantly saying 'one of the twins', he would have to take the time to learn how to tell the difference. "I've named him Phantom because he feels like the wind beneath me." Haldir answered, quickly making up the reason for the horses name.
"Ah, it is a good name and perfect for this particular stallion. How about we take him back, give him a good clean and put him in his stall before going to the dining hall for our midday meal. Perhaps we will go riding together later this evening, if the weather is fine." Glorfindel suggested.
"That is a fine suggestion." One of the twins replied, Haldir nodded his agreement. He climbed off the horse and pulled the reins over Phantom's head so he could lead the stallion. Together the four elves and the horse strolled over to the stable, the twins talking excitedly about the way Haldir handled the animal. It seemed that not all elves could ride as well as him on their first day of bonding. The elf and horse had to learn how to work together, what one wanted to do the other was not so eager. With Phantom and Haldir however, that wasn't the case. Phantom happily obeyed and both horse and rider had bonded within seconds.
Phantom snorted at one of the other stallions as he ambled past the field, the stallion snorted in return but Phantom did not rise to the bait. Instead he nibbled happily at Haldir's shoulder, his great breath cooling the exposed skin of Haldir's neck and creating a tickling sensation. Haldir chuckled softly gently rubbing the soft muzzle of his partner. Under the three elves watchful eye Haldir removed the horse's tack and brushed him down before leading him into his stall. The horses waffled in happiness eagerly heading for his hay net as Haldir locked the door. With the horse safely in his stable, Haldir turned to the three elves and nodded, visually telling them he was ready for lunch.
The elves smiled softly, joyously taking in the sight of a newly bonded horse and rider. "It is a beauty to see such a bond!" One of the twins stated in great joy. "Perhaps we should train our horses together this eve? It would be a wonder to ride and jump together and see the unique skills each rider and horse has in the flesh."
"Indeed. To ride is to bring such joy into my heart!" The other twin replied with a musical cry.
Haldir chuckled at the open joy the twins displayed as they sung their praises for their horses, their skills and the land around them. He glanced at Glorfindel with a smiled. "Perhaps we need not take the twins with us as we ride; I think that we would lose them much too quickly the moment they are on horseback."
"Alas, I believe you are right!" Glorfindel chuckled in reply. "They speak so fondly of their horses and land that I sometimes find myself wondering whether they will remember us!"
The twins laughed joyously as they turned to face their two blonde companions. "Forgive us, dear friends. We did not forget you, dear companions, together on this eve we will show you the joys of riding!"
Haldir paused and glanced at Glorfindel with a questioning gaze. "You say we ride this eve, yet I have not seen you bond with a horse. Am I to understand that this means you will not ride with us?"
"I will ride with you, Young one, do not fear. I have already visited Rivendell before and have felt the joy of being bonded with a horse. I left Swiftfoot in the generous and loving care of the Rivendell elves, it will be good to see and ride him again." Glorfindel replied, Haldir smiled at the look of longing on the older elf's face. Such a soft look of love and caring, Haldir found himself filling himself with such sympathy. He wondered what sadness and pain the pair had experienced at being parted.
"I look forward to riding alongside you." Haldir replied truthfully, he honestly looked forward to riding with the three elves, the way they spoke indicated such joy that Haldir found himself eager to see them ride for himself.
"And you will! But let us eat before we even decide to ride. Perhaps we can make an evening of it and explore Rivendell?" One of the twins asked the other.
"Yes, Elrohir, that is a fine idea! I shall ask father if we may take some food and drink and have ourselves a fine meal among the wilderness." 'Ellandan replied. Haldir took note of their names and focused carefully, Ellandan had a much more youthful appearance in his dark eyes whereas Elrohir had a sharper more focused and sterner look upon his face.
"Very well, I shall move swiftly back to the stable and tell them to have our horses ready for our evening ride." Elrohir replied, Haldir did not know he had not noticed it before but Elrohir analysed everything with such a calculating look it was clearly obvious that whilst the twins looked the same their minds were completely different. Elrohir turned to face Glorfindel and Haldir. "I will not be long."
"You need not rush, Elrohir. We can prepare after lunch." Glorfindel replied.
"Yes, we may but the place we have in mind for the evening meal is quite far and can take some time to reach. It will not take me much time to ask father to allow us to go, I do believe he will allow us to go." Elladan replied.
"And I can reach the stable and return swiftly. I will not be long, I promise you." Elrohir replied.
"Alright, but I will not be willing to leave until you have both eaten as well." Glorfindel replied. The twins chuckled as Haldir nodded his agreement, before both of them acquiesced to Glorfindel demands.
"We will be back." Ellandan replied before turning and quickly moving inside to find his father, Elrohir nodded and raced back down the hill to the stables.
Glorfindel chuckled at the enthusiasm of the twins before turning to the entrance way and leading Haldir inside. The dining hall was not far from them and they easily found themselves in front of the large wooden doors once more. Glorfindel smiled softly as he opened the door and walked towards their regular seats. "The twins speak so wonderfully of their home and I can tell you that they do not lie. Rivendell is a rather beautiful place, but I have yet to explore as much as I had hoped."
"How much have you seen?" Haldir asked in fascination, when he had heard the stories the twins had told with such joy he had believe some to be nothing more than tales yet the older elf had now told him those stories he though fiction were truth.
"I have seen the stables, the river and the great vineyard of Rivendell. I have also visited some of their forests and groves too but their land is vast and I've heard tales of a grand lake and mountain side woods and valleys. Perhaps our time here will give us opportunity to see if there is any truth in the stories."
"Yes, I would very much like that." Haldir agreed with a smile and it was an honest smile. He really did truly wish to ride the hidden valleys, forests and groves. He had not had such an opportunity back home where much of the land was field, road and building. He would take this time to explore and take in all that was on offer in this world.
"So will I." Glorfindel agreed as he helped himself to the fine food on the table. Haldir silently followed his lead as he also began to fill his plate. The twins returned with little sound and also began to feast. "Has your father given his blessings?" Glorfindel asked curiously.
"He thought it a fine idea and gave us his blessings." Elladan replied.
"The stable hands will brush down our horses and have our tack ready for us when we return." Elrohir replied.
"Our tack will be ready? Does this mean the horses will not already be saddled?" Haldir asked curiously.
"Oh God no!" Elladan replied with a chuckle. "Our horses are our own, whilst they will allow the stable hands to lead them and groom them they will not permit the stable hands to saddle them. Only the rider may have that honour."
"But then how will a rider leave quickly if the horse will not allow the stable hands to saddle them?" Haldir asked in disbelief, even Ishtar his mare from his own world allowed the stable hands to saddle her.
"We often choose a loyal stable hand that we trust with our lives to take care of our horses, since you have not chosen a stable hand we have decided to saddle the horses together so we may be ready at the same time." Elrohir replied. Haldir felt his cheeks heat at, they would wait for him! He was feeling more and more like he was one of them, yet he knew he could not become attached, not if he wanted to return home. "Besides the horses prefer it when their riders groom and tack them. They love the attention and I could not find it in myself to deny such a treat as to spend time with my mare." Elrohir added obviously taking in Haldir's blush with a lecherous smirk.
"Leave him be Elrohir." Elladan replied with a chuckle, though he was clearly smirking himself.
Glorfindel chuckled as he pushed his plate away and leant back as he sipped his drink. "Behave you two remember what your grandparents said." The twins chuckled but Haldir was more mortified, he thought their flirtatious attempts had halted for some time but clearly whilst the two elves would not speak of their desires openly they would happily indulge in his embarrassment. "If you are full enough to torment your guest then let one of us collect our evening meal and head to the stables."
Haldir finished his drink and nodded his agreement. The twins finished their food and drinks before leaning back. "Yes, I will collect the food and drink for our evening meal. I will meet you down at the stable." Elladan stated, pushing his seat back and standing.
"If you are sure, Elladan." Glorfindel replied.
"I am sure, could you ask Mathis to saddle Blackthorn for me?" Elladan asked Elrohir, who nodded in compliance. "I will see you in a few moments then." With that said Elladan left the dining hall through the door behind the grand table that led directly to the kitchens.
"Have you finished your drinks?" Elrohir asked. Glorfindel and Haldir both nodded. Elrohir smiled and stood. "Then let us waste no more time and head to the stable." Glorfindel and Haldir eagerly stood and followed the dark haired elf quickly to the stables. When they arrived Elrohir quickly spoke to a stable hand that nodded and walked into the stable. He walked over to the four horses tied to the wall. Three were stallions were set a distance apart so they could not fight and the mare was even further away so as not to place her in danger and annoy the stallions further. The horse he approached was a fine black stallion. He was built like a racer with large hind quarters and a large chest for a large heart. The only imperfection was a white scar on the stallion's nose, an old injury that the fur growth never covered. He nipped at the stable hand as the elf saddled him for his rider.
"Now you see why riders prefer to saddle their own horses." Glorfindel stated as he walked over to a bay stallion. The horse was a pale colour compared to Phantom whose fur was dark bay, this horse was a pale chestnut with white stockings and its face was mostly white as well as it's mane. It whickered softly at Glorfindel, nibbling gently at his partners long golden hair in greeting. They stared at each other with great joy and Swiftfoot stomped his front hoof to the ground as he pushed his muzzle towards the tack eagerly looking forward to riding once more with his rider. Glorfindel chuckled with a smile of restrained joy as he began saddling his horse. Haldir politely ignored the tears of joy welling up in the elf's eyes and focused on Elrohir.
The black haired elf had walked towards the bay mare and touched her muzzle softly. She waffled in happiness grinding her black hind hoof against the floor. She was a beautiful specimen, her fur was exactly the same as Phantom's. Her bay fur darkened into black but instead of fading into white, her's remained black all the way down to her black hooves. Even her face was bay and her muzzle was black, the only white was a tiny snip at the bottom of her muzzle, even her mane was black!
Haldir turned away and gave the two bonded elves and their horses some privacy as he focused on Phantom. The tri-coloured stallion was snorting impatiently, stretching his long neck to nibble at the saddle. Haldir chuckled. "Patience Phantom, I've not forgotten you my friend." The stallion snorted as if to say 'You better not have'. With another chuckled he stroked the horses back before reaching for the tack and very gently placed the equipment on the stallion, making sure the animal was happy before he secured everything in place.
Eventually after much care the four horses were ready. Glorfindel, Elrohir and Haldir sat in their saddles, Elrohir held his brothers horses reins waiting for Elladan to arrive with the food and drink. The could see a figure walk down the hill laden with packages of some sort and quickly deduced that the figure was the missing twin. It soon became clear that it was as Blackthorn whickered loudly in greeting, prancing on his feet and tugging against his reins to try and race towards his bonded.
"Be calm Blackthorn." Elladan stated as he approached, the stallion stilled but stepped forward minutely stretching his muzzle towards Elladan. The elf gently rubbed the horse's muzzle before stepping around the horse and placing a pack on the horse's hind quarters, he secured it to the horse before placing one of Elrohir's mare. Once both packs were secured, Elladan climbed upon his horse and smiled. "Are we ready?"
"Yes, brother, we were just waiting for you."
"Then we need not wait any longer." Elladan replied before guiding his horse forward, the stallion immediately lunged forward quickly moving into a light canter. Elrohir chuckled before he too led his mare into a canter. Haldir and Glorfindel quickly followed.
Phantom eagerly moved into a canter, Haldir hardly felt the transition between a walk, trot and canter. The moves were so gentle and quick that if he was not bouncing up and down he would not have believed he was riding a horse. Phantom made to go faster and Haldir had no doubt he would reach amazing speeds but he held the stallion back with a firm grip on the horses reins.
Elladan led the way on Blackthorn, the stallion had an amazing gait, but so did all the horses. Elladan was using his body to minutely change the stallion's movements, yet he did not tug and pull at the reins, to Haldir it seemed that he was directing the horse by touch alone. The black stallion effortlessly glided over the obstacles in his path.
Elrohir followed closely with his mare, she was also moving effortlessly but her steps had a prancing quality to them. She looked for all the world to be 'showing off her best' to all that would see. Her hooves made as little sound as possible as she lightly stepped over the obstacles and through leaf litter.
Swiftfoot and Glorfindel followed behind Phantom and Haldir. The pale chestnut horse cantered more economically. He moved with measured steps and focused on his goal. Glorfindel rarely had to direct his horse or hold the animal back because the horse followed what he wanted to the letter.
Phantom pranced a few times, snorting at what he considered a slow pace. Haldir chuckled and held the horse steady. He held Phantom further back to stay away from the mare, he had noticed Phantom getting his muzzle getting closer to the mare's rump. The stallion snorted in annoyance but obediently slowed until he was a further distance away. The two other stallions pranced and snorted in rebuke but Phantom happily ignored them his attention solely on the mare in front of him. The mare barely paid attention to her potential suitors, instead her attention was focused on the path in front of her and her partner's position on her back and his gentle directions.
Elrohir chuckled and easily brushed off Haldir's apologies. "All stallions react the same way. Besides Phantom has always bred with a mare he wanted, he's never been tamed, so he's never learnt to ride alongside a mare." The dark-haired elf explained. "Swiftfoot and Blackthorn learnt to pay attention to their riders and eventually Phantom will as well." Haldir nodded his agreement, the horse was already listening to him and he did not doubt that Phantom would eventually learn not to flirt whilst he was being ridden.
Haldir initially did not have time to observe his environment as he was in a crowded forest but soon the trees spread further apart and a beautiful sight welcomed here. Green planes welcomed them and in the middle of all the grass lay a large blue lake. They cantered through the fields the horses neighing in pleasure. The elves chuckled as the horses arched their necks and whinnied joyously. They easily rode through the knee high water of the small rivers connecting to the lake, before once more riding into the forest, they began riding up hill, the soil loosening causing the horses to slow. The animals easily compensated with their powerful hind quarters and easily lunging up the steep slope. Once they reached the top Elladan pulled to a stop. "The horses did well, let's allow them a small reprieve." The three elves easily agreed, Haldir patted Phantom's neck. The stallion was clearly not tired but Haldir would not push the animal too hard, this was supposed to be a relaxing journey.
The elves allowed the horses ten minutes or so before the horses themselves began to move. With the animals clearly ready to move Elladan led them through the beautiful forest , slowly through the emerald green leaves and the bright white light of the sun's rays, Haldir noticed the unmistakable brown of rock. Slowly the colour grew until they stepped out of the forest and stared at the great walls of the mountain. The horses ambled carefully over the soft brown soil, mixed with sharp rocks.
Haldir, assured that Phantom would not be hurt allowed himself to admire the sight around him. From this height he could see the bright white ball of sunlight spreading its gentle arms and tendrils towards the ground, its light caressed the emerald and jade green leaves that hid the soft and gentle browns of tree trunks and soil. The brown of the rocks melded with the brown of the soil. In fact it looked as if the dark soil paled into the familiar rock colour. Cut into the mountain was a dark valley, instead of looking foreboding it looked almost welcome. There was a small waterfall, falling down to the lake they had passed. Vines grew from around the water and along the valley, it was beautiful.
Elladan led them up a small pathway that led to the valley. The horses had to go up in single line, but eventually the horses stood side by side in the large valley staring at the beautiful river and plant life. A nearby doe made a sound of surprise and pounced away quickly. "This is the hidden valley." Elladan needlessly explained, before getting Blackthorn to move into a canter. Together all four riders cantered down the valley, Haldir smiled at the variety of life before him, all thriving in a valley smaller than the rest of the word outside, yet beautiful all the same.
Phantom snorted happily, prancing alongside Elorhir's mare. Swiftfood neighed as he followed closely and Blackthorn was literally flying with joy! With a swiftness that clearly only the elven horses possessed the three stallions and the mare were soon riding side by side in one line. Haldir chuckled as Phantom neighed quickly followed by the other three horses.
The rode for hours and slowly the sun began to lower in the sky and its bright white glow tinted orange. When they finally pulled to a stop the sky was turning red in the horizon. They stood at the end of the valley on a platform with hung over a grand forest that spread as far as the eye could see, the river was behind them falling from a lake high above them on top of the mountain. Elladan and Elrohir promised to take them up there another time, but they would have to leave early in the morning. It was now late and it would be the middle of the night by the time they returned to the Twin's home. The four riders climbed off their horses and after relieving Blackthorn and the mare of their packages, they allowed them to wander near the waterfall to feed and drink.
Elrohir filled the cups with a red liquid that Haldir assumed to be wine and passing them around as Elladan set out a few dishes of food. Even though it was not as varied as what would be available in Rivendell's great dining hall, it was still an elaborate meal with two selections of meat (poultry and venison if Haldir was not mistaken). There was also a large variety of vegetables that had yet to be cooked. It became clear that they would cook it there and then. Glorfindel quickly moved to start a fire, so Haldir moved towards the waterfall and collected loose wood, stones and plants. The wood would be to fuel the fire, the stones would protect the food from the fire and ashes and the plants would protect and flavour the food.
After a short half hour the meat was sizzling over the fire and the vegetables were gently turning crisp in the heat. In another ten minutes they pulled the stones from the fire and Elladan easily cut into the soft, succulent meat and began serving the food. Haldir happily accepted the heated stone slab with his helping of the two meats and vegetables. He was not worried about eating from a stone because the heat would have eliminated all germs and bacteria on the slab. In amiable silence they tucked in staring quietly at the beautiful sight of the sky slowly darkening as the sun slowly set behind them.
The sky slowly darkened until it was a rich, dark purple. They finished eating a while ago and had carefully cleaned the fire and stones and placed them back the way they were before. Elladan quietly sighed. "If we wish to return to Rivendell this night, we should leave now whilst we still have some light to see by."
"Alas you are correct. It's time to leave." Glorfindel replied. The four elves stood and moved to their quietly resting horses. The horses sensing their readiness to return unlocked their joints and slowly wandered to meet them half way.
Haldir patted Phantom's face gently before climbing onto the animal's back and following the elves back down the valley. The horses easily cantered quickly down the valley. The journey seemed quicker and the sky was soon black. When they arrived back at the stables there was little light to see from other than the candle lights strategically placed in safe places for the horse's safety and for the stable hands to see. The four riders pulled to a stop and carefully removed the tack and groomed their horses before placing them in their stables and heading back to the large building eager for their beds.
The twins graciously escorted their two Lothlorien guests to their quarters before wishing them a good night and vanishing themselves. Haldir smiled sleepily wishing his tutor a good night before slipping into his room. He blinked, startled by the sight of Thorn. The elf smiled gently and aided the non-resistant Haldir to strip his clothes, other than his trousers and get in bed. Once his master was safely within the sheets of his bed, Thorn wished Haldir a good night and blew out the lights before dismissing himself.
When Haldir awoke he was greeted by the welcome sight of a steaming cup of drink. He glanced around and noticed Thorn going about his morning duties. The elf smiled in greeting but did not speak knowing that Haldir was still half asleep and would not make the greatest conversationalist. Haldir pulled himself up so he sat leaning back against his pillows. He gratefully picked up the cup and sipped the herbal tea his fellow elf had bought him.
He never referred to Thorn as his servant because that meant that Thorn wasn't a free person, in fact not classed as a person at all.
Thorn waited until after Haldir had finished drinking his drink. He waited until Haldir himself was ready to rise before encouraging his master to rise. Haldir smiled as Thorn vanished into the 'bathroom', a few moments later, steam flowed into his bedroom from the bath.
"May I ask you a question, Thorn?" Haldir asked cautiously as he placed his feet upon the soft furs on the floor around his bed.
"You may, sir." Thorn replied amiably.
"How do you get the hot water here?" Haldir asked curiously as he walked towards the bathroom and leant against the doorway.
Thorn chuckled. "The building has hundreds, if not thousands of pipes dedicated for the dispersal of water. There is a room somewhere within this building that stores much water from the nearby lakes and rivers, the water is heated and cleaned through a series of strategically placed limestone's and other rocks. The clean water is then split into two large basins. One for cold water such as drinking water and the second is heated and sent to baths and the kitchens." Thorn explained. He walked over to the wall. "When I make your bath I let the elves know by pilling this cord, it rings a bell, they heat the water and pump it through the pipes, I then open this wooden slab in the wall where there is an extendable pipe, I then bring it over to the tub and fill the bath, when it's close to full I pull the chord to let them know that I've had enough and they stop the flow."
"That's a really elaborate system." Haldir answered amazed by how the elves had overcome the difficulty of getting hot water.
"Of course I am not sure how they get it up to the floors above ground. I don't work with the water, only use it, but I assume there is some sort of water wheels or pumps pushing the water up but I could be wrong." Thorn added.
"You seem to know much." Haldir replied.
"I only know as much as my friend will tell me." Haldir smiled as Thorn blushed as he said friend, clearly he hoped that this friend was much more. "Is the bath water okay?" He asked changing the subject. Haldir kindly allowed him to change the subject and nodded to tell the elf that the water is fine. "Then I will prepare your clothing for the fresh day." The elf answered quickly dismissing himself.
Haldir chuckled and eagerly approached the bath and pulled off his trousers. He slipped into the water and sighed quietly. He relaxed and bathed quietly as he listened to the movements of the elf in the other room. Thorn quietly slipped in and placed clean clothes beside the bath, politely keeping his head turned away before leaving once more.
Haldir climbed out once he was clean and dried then dressed himself before walking back into his bedroom. He quickly collected his weapons and placed them in their designated spots before pulling his cloak on. Elrond arrived just as Haldir had double checked that his daggers were hidden by the cloak. The elf lord smiled. "Are you ready for breakfast?"
"Yes I am." Haldir replied. Elrond smiled and led the way out, Haldir turned back to face Thorn. "Have a good day Thorn. I will see you later."
"See you later, sir." Thorn replied with a large smile.
Haldir smiled in return and happily followed the elf lord. As they walked into the dining hall the twins loudly greeted him from one of the lower tables. "Alas here is the great rider. He rode as well as any great rider." They were telling some of their comrades. Haldir blushed as he followed the elf lord to the high table and sat with his fellow Lothlorien elf. Glorfindel chuckled as he pushed a cup towards him. Haldir took the offered cup and drank the fruit tea gratefully pretending to ignore the joyful serenades of the twins as they boasted his riding skills to their friends.
Lord Elrond chuckled as he took his seat and drank from his own cup. "I will begin your lessons about our elven history and the history of this world next week. Your bond with your horse is too fresh for me to begin now. I have given my blessings for your ventures around Rivendell, the only thing I ask is that you travel with some care, particularly along the mountainsides where there is sharp rocks and steep falls. You may camp out if you and your party wish it so, but please inform myself and some of the guards first."
"Thank you Lord Elrond. I am looking forward to exploring some more of Rivendell's hidden places." Glorfindel replied with a smile. "The valley was very beautiful, my Lord, particularly that eve. It would be a great pleasure to explore the mountain tops themselves." He turned to Haldir. "Perhaps we should ask the twins if they would take us there first."
"I would like to see the great lake they spoke of." Confessed Haldir with a smile. "It sounds rather grand the way they spoke of it."
"Indeed it did." Glorfindel replied.
"If you wish to visit the great lake of the mountain top it would take a day's journey to reach and another day to return. Perhaps you should camp upon the mountains for a day or two or maybe more." Lord Elrond replied. "Elladan, Elrohir, come, I need to speak with you."
"Yes Father." They replied, the approached quickly and took their regular seats next to their father. "What do you need of us?"
"I have told both Glorfindel and Haldir that I will not teach Haldir this week, with Haldir's bond to his horse still fresh. Instead I permit you to take them to explore Rivendell. They speak fondly of the idea to visit the mountain-top lake, it would be a many day camp out. Would you take them, my children?"
The twins glanced at both Lothlorien elves and smiled. "It would be our pleasure father. May we leave soon after breakfast so we may reach the valley this eve?"
"You may." The elf lord agreed amiably.
Glorfindel smiled. "Perhaps whilst we camp I will teach you how to make arrows."
"I would like that." Haldir replied agreeably.
"He had not been taught to make arrows?" Elladan asked in disbelief. "Why in Middle Earth not? If we had met battle on the way to Rivendell and he had ran out of arrows how would he have restocked if we could not have done it for him?"
"Alas, it is my own fault and I accept the blame. But I felt no need to teach him until this opportunity arose."
"Then indeed it is fortunate this opportunity did arise." The elf lord stated. "For we could not leave an elf without the knowledge to survive in the wilderness, if for nothing else I shall bless this journey in the hopes that my dear friend, Haldir will learn the craft of arrow-making."
"Here-here!" The twins replied. Haldir blushed at the attention but nodded his head agreeably. He had been eagerly awaiting such an opportunity.
Breakfast past quickly, all four elves eager to leave for the mountains and quickly. The four decided that they would take a spare set of clothes, water and rations but would seek shelter and food from the wilderness around them. The lord approved stating it would teach them to survive in the wilderness. He called a four servants and asked them to inform the four elf's servants to prepare their packs with clothes, water and food.
When breakfast was done and they wandered to the entrance hall, they glanced four elves awaiting them with packs. One of these elves was Thorn who happily approached with his pack. "I have packed the clothes you wore from Lothlorien and a grey cloak, I've also included two large containers of water and some bread and fruit. Have a good trip, sir."
"Thank you Thorn." Haldir returned, happily receiving the package. "I hope you have a good couple of days as well."
"Thank you sir." With this said Thorn stepped back to allow his master to pass. Haldir nodded gratefully, he glanced around and noticed that Glorfindel, Elladan and Elrohir's servants had also handed them their packs and now all four elves were ready to go.
"Are you already to go?" Elrohir asked. His brother, Glorfindel and Haldir nodded. "Then let us leave so we will reach the valley in the eve."
"Indeed." Elladan replied agreeably. With this said the four elves walked outside of the building, before turning and walking down towards the stables, as they approached they could hear the stamping of hooves and the eager neighing of horses.
In a speed that showed the comfort and joy of their bonds, the elves quickly approached their horses and within ten to fifteen minutes the horses were well groomed and saddled ready for the long journey ahead. The horses sensed the long journey before them via their bond with their riders and shifted on their hooves, eager to be off.
The elves also eager to be off tied their packages onto their saddles before pulling up onto the horses back. Elrohir eagerly moved his mare to a canter and soon all four horses cantered side by side through the forest. Blackthorn used his great hind quarters to race in front of the mare. Phantom snorted and easily kept pace with the black stallion. Elrohir and Glorfindel fell slightly behind allowing Phantom and Blackthorn to continue their silly competition. Gradually Phantom pushed ahead using his nimble and slightly lighter form to prance ahead of the black stallion until he was ahead of the herd. With a snort of pride he happily kept up his pace taunting the stallion with a flick of his black tail. The animal snorted but calmed as the four elves chuckled.
"Bravo, Haldir. You have a fine horse there. Not many horses can outrun Blackthorn's great pace." Elladan stated.
"Yes, indeed, he's a fine stallion." Haldir agreed as he felt the animal's pride, the animal shook his great head, his black mane blowing into Haldir's face causing the elf to chuckle in amusement. Together the stampeded through the small rivers and lunged up the side of the hills. Phantom easily zigzagged between the trees with such ease that even the delicate mare could not keep up. As Haldir reached the top of the hill he pulled the stallion to a stop and chuckled as he waited for the three horses and riders to catch up.
Elladan chuckled as he pulled to a stop next to Haldir. "That was impressive." He stated. Blackthorn snorted at Phantom obviously not happy about being outdone. Phantom just whickered, pleased with himself, shifting eagerly on his hooves. Haldir patted his neck gently as Glorfindel and Elrohir finally reached them. "Phantom is a very swift horse, very agile. I bet he would be a fine jumper."
"Yes indeed he could." Elrohir added as all four elves focused on the tri-coloured stallion, when the horse noticed their attention he raised his head and tail, 'showing off his best side'. The elves chuckled in amusement before urging their horses forward, the horses easily carried their partners up the small pathway to the valley.
Glorfindel pulled to a stop and glanced at the sun high up in the sky. "I think it is lunch soon, perhaps we should rest here and help ourselves to some rations and fruits before we continue?"
"Yes, let's rest now, it is a long ride through the valley." Elladan agreed. With the decision made the four elves dismounted from their horses. They each pulled their water containers out and some fruit and sat near the edge of the valley.
Up at the rim of the valley, they could see Rivendell in the distance and the great forest and lake below, surrounding the great building like one grand 'red carpet'. Haldir could see from the height he was how grand Rivendell was and how much it commanded respect. Even the twins who lived in those grand white walls sat in respectful silence.
Eventually the spell broke and the four elves roused themselves from silence and awe. The put their drink containers away and threw away the remains of the fruit, before mounting their horses once again. The turned their backs to the awe-inspiring sight of Rivendell palace and cantered deeper into the valley.
Phantom eagerly cantered besides Blackthorn but he held back from charging ahead because Haldir held him firm. Together all four horses charged through the valley and all though the journey took many hours and they could see the sky darken ahead of them, the speed of the horses meant they did not feel the time pass. Elladan had caught a doe a short while back and all four elves were eager to feast.
They once more pulled to a stop at the other end of the valley where they had last had their evening meal. They climbed down and set up the fire and stones to cook the meat with. Whilst Glorfindel and Elladan prepared the fire and the meat to be cooked, Elrohir and Haldir searched for herbs and spices to add flavour to the meat. Soon the meat was sizzling and the revitalising scent of herbs and spices spread through the air.
"We will soon find out if Phantom is a jumper." Elladan stated as he helped himself to the meat.
"How so?" Haldir asked after he'd swallowed his mouthful.
"The path to the mountain top has some large obstacles and a few of them require being jumped over." Elrohir explained. Haldir nodded at the explanation already looking forward to the opportunity to see if Phantom would be able to handle the jumps. Ishtar was a particularly good jumper, she seemed to have springs in her hind legs, prancing effortlessly over the jumps. Would Phantom be as good as his mare?
Soon their meal was finished and they rested for a half hour to allow their meal to go down before remounting their steeds. Elladan led the way with Blackthorn. "The path to the top is not easy and it is better to go single file, I will lead the way and then you can follow me Haldir, then Glorfindel and finally Elrohir. My brother and I know this path so its better is we keep watch, but I doubt you'll have any trouble."
"But it is better to be safe than sorry." Elrohir added.
Haldir nodded his agreement and watched Elladan and Blackthorn ride ahead, he allowed a few paces before urging Phantom forward. He kept the stallion at a slow pace and watched as Blackthorn launched himself into the air with his powerful hinds avoiding a large pile of natural debris. Haldir barely noticed the sound of movement behind him as he collected his horse's reins. He watched carefully measuring the steps, Phantom immediately noticed the obstacle and Haldir could feel the animal getting ready for the jump. As the hind hooves moved forward to launch the animal in the air, Haldir slid forward taking his weight off the back and leaning forward to aid the jump. The horse flew through the air and as the front hooves moved down to land, Haldir slid back taking his weight of the front of the animal. He was slightly hovering above the saddle so his full weight wasn't on the horses back. As the horse recovered his canter, Haldir lowered himself back into the saddle.
Phantom in excitement fought for his head but Haldir kept firm hold of the reins. Phantom fought for a few moments more but with a firm grip at the reigns and a gentle kick at his sides from Haldir, the stallion pulled himself together and focused on the jumps and what his rider wanted.
Haldir followed the black stallion as the horse literally flew over the jumps and Phantom followed with ease, his ears pricked forward and even before he had landed he was already focused on the next. Haldir smiled, this stallion was an amazing jumper. Elladan turned sharply into another hidden valley that led directly up to the top of the mountain. With a quick tug at the reins had Phantom turning ninety degrees in a split second before he charged up the stone ramp easily jumping the huge obstacles blocking the valley.
Elladan pulled to a stop at the top and Haldir joined him in a split second. They turned and watch Swiftfoot fly over the obstacle, his hooves barely touching the rotting shrubs. The mare being slightly smaller clipped them with her hooves but she also easily got over the jumps. When they were all together the four elves admired the horses who were very excited with their ears pricked as they shifted ready to canter and jump.
Haldir glanced around and gasped simultaneously with Glorfindel, the sight that greeted them was awe-inspiring. They were inside a basin, the edges of the mountains were smaller versions of the mountains the stood on. Haldir could clearly see caves and hiding places within the small mountains on top of a mountain and Haldir curiously wondered in the caves in the smaller mountains spread into the huge one they sat upon. Green grass spread from the sides of the mountains all the way down to their base and then over hills before reaching a giant reservoir in the mountain top. Hadlir had no idea how the water had gotten there, but he guessed a lot of it was melted ice and rain water. There were also a few streams coming from the small mountains, causing him to wonder if there were springs up there. It was like a miniature world upon the top of a mountain, it was absolutely amazing. There was even woods, trees covered the edges of the small mountains and spread as far as the eye could see. The mountain top was huge and Haldir knew he was not seeing the whole of the top of the mountain, he wondered incredulously if there was a whole eco system up on the platform.
"Welcome to the mountain top." Elladan introduced with a chuckle.
"This is absolutely amazing!" Haldir exclaimed.
"When my brother and I decide to come up here we need nothing. We can travel for days, find easy shelter and even hunt. There are deer here and since there are no predators there are many of them. The only bad thing about this place is when it rains, it pours and there are floods where the reservoir over fills. It is easy to become trapped." Elrohir explained.
"But even when we become trapped we are quite safe. Since the mountains and forests offer great refuge and since the deer have been here for a while they know to avoid the lower ground and it means we do not go hungry." Elladan continued.
"I look forward to seeing and exploring this mountain top." Glorfindel confessed.
"There is a great area upon the mountains to the East, where the grand forest is. It is an incredible view, if we ride now we can get there before darkness completely falls."
"Then let us ride now." Glorfindel replied.
"Yes, sir!" Elladan replied with a chuckle. He led the way encouraging Blackthorn into a gallop and soon all four horses were galloping side by side, the horses powerful hind quarters pushed them easily over the landscape and the dark ominous shape of a forest grew into a welcoming sight of bark, leaves and soil. The horses easily split and with agility that only their breed possessed they galloped through the trees easily circling around the trees and avoiding them. Soon they were prancing up the sides of the mountains and bursting onto a small platform.
Haldir glanced around as he pulled Phantom to a stop. It was actually a very good spot. The ground was slightly sloped so that rain would run down to the forest instead of into a small cave cut into the mountainside. It was a pretty good place and it appeared very safe. They climbed off the animals and carefully removed their tack placing it into the caves. The animals whickered before wandering over to a patch of grass. With the horses settled the elves set up a fire in front of the mouth of the cave and cooked some of the raw meat they had kept from their last meal. Soon with their bellies full and their hearts merry they ventured further into the cave and slept.
The next morning Haldir rose to see Glorfindel checking the horses. Elrohir was cooking something over the fire whilst Elladan still slept. Haldir yawned and sat up happily taken the offered food. A short while later Elladan arose and also helped himself to the food.
Once they had their fill of food and cleaned up the area, they approached their horses. Phantom walked over and turned himself so that Haldir could easily slip the saddle pad and saddle into place. Haldir gently rubbed the fur in a weak attempt to groom the animal before he saddled the horse and slipped the reins back into place. Once Phantom was ready to be ridden he pulled himself onto the animals back. The three elves followed closely, mounting their own steeds.
Phantom immediately lunged into a trot, prancing down the hill with the three horses closely following his tracks. The horses quickly negotiated the mountainside and pranced through the forest. The elves and horses raced against each other as the galloped for the reservoir, Phantom and Blackthorn were closely matched with the mare not far behind and Swiftfoot quickly followed them. Phantom bucked and pranced in enjoyment, the horses neighed loudly and the elves laughed and chuckled in pleasure.
"It is grand to ride so free!" Elladan shouted with joy. Haldir laughed aloud as Elrohir and Glorfindel chuckled. All were in complete agreement, it was so freeing to feel the horses below them fly like the wind.
They all noticed a fallen tree blocking their path and all four wondered whether to jump or run around. Phantom was the first to reach it and with one great push from his hind quarters, he flew over it, his hooves barely scraping the top. He landed with ease and flew across the grass easily recollecting his gait. Blackthorn followed closely but the mare and Swiftfoot chose to go around the fallen tree. Phantom and Blackthorn competed jumping the obstacles and twisting and turning. Blackthorn had the power in his hind quarters and he was fast but Phantom had the jump and soon he was inching forward, slowly inch by inch Phantom pushed himself ahead of the black stallion until Blackthorn's head was barely near his hind quarters.
"Alright you win!" Elladan exclaimed with a laugh as he halted Blackthorn. Haldir laughed as he too pulled Phantom to a stop. The tri-coloured stallion whinnied in annoyance at being stopped but obediently walked to stand next to his competition.
"It seems your two horses don't like each other." Elrohir said as he guided his mare to stand next to Blackthorn.
"It seems they see each other as competition." Haldir answered, "Fortunately Phantom doesn't fight too hard to attack Blackthorn instead he races and competes."
"That's what these horses do." Elladan answered. "They'd rather compete than fight, unless both stallions are of equal standing. If they choose to fight, they do so safely away from their riders and will never fight whilst their riders are on their back."
Haldir made a small sound of consideration. "That's not how it works where I come from."
The three elves made sounds of curiosity. "Tell us of the horses from where you come from." Glorfindel asked in curiosity.
Haldir sighed, wondering where to begin. "The horses are similar to these guys and girl, the only difference is that their normally smaller than the elven horses. Stallions rarely get along with each other unless they are raised and trained together. But mostly they are kept separate. Mares are highly prized because they are more calm and collected and less likely to cause a fuss."
"What do you prefer?" Elladan asked in curiosity.
"In all honesty, I cannot answer. But I did have a horse before I came here."
"Oh."
"Yes. A mare, named Ishtar. A beautiful dapple grey Arabian. She had a white mane and tail and the only black were her hooves and the tip of her muzzle. She wasn't as swift as Phantom is or as large, but she made up for it with endurance and personality. In fact, together we jumped in competitions and we became well known."
"Was it a bond?" Haldir barely noticed who spoke as he stared into the distance remembering his beloved mare.
"Like the one that I now share with Phantom?"
"Yes."
"No. We don't bond mentally, but sometimes it seemed she knew what I was saying or what I wanted." Haldir replied thoughtfully. "The horses of my world don't bond with any particular rider. Anyone can ride a horse from my world."
"You loved her."
"Of course, I loved her. She was mine and I trained for hours with her and when we weren't training I would spend a few hours sitting in the field with her reading, writing or even drawing." Haldir confessed, before sighing. "But I doubt I'd ever see her again." He patted Phantom's neck as the animal shifted in discomfort and worry at his partner's sadness. "I love Phantom now, but even he cannot replace Ishtar."
"No one can replace a lost horse." Glorfindel stated sadly. "She sounds like a fine mare."
"She was. She was a grand jumper, I just hope the stable is taking good care of her." Haldir stated. "Forgive me for spoiling the light mood." He said a few moments later finally becoming aware of the solemn air around the other three elves.
"You need not apologise. Come let us ride on, there is something I wish to show you." Elladan answered. He urged Blackthorn forward and soon the four elves and their horses were charging for the small mountains. It little to no time they were on the top staring down at the unmistakable sight of Rivendell palace far below them. From this height they could see the grand white of the building, the emerald and jade greens of the forest and the deep ultramarines of rivers.
"It's beautiful." Haldir whispered, he absentmindedly noticed Phantom chewing lightly on the bit in his mouth but Haldir was more focused on the sight before him. He gently patted the horse's neck as he stared at the beautiful sight. "It seems that everywhere I go in this world, there is beauty everywhere, and it is so different where I come from."
"How so?" Glorfindel asked curiously.
"There is little wild areas, everything is pretty much controlled by man and the land is processed and built on so much that there is little room for man and every other living thing." Haldir explained. "I mean not to paint the world in such a bad light but compared to this beauty even I cannot deny the destruction the world suffers back where I come from."
"Please tell us what is good of your world?" Elrohir asked, in open curiosity and eagerness.
"Well, man as a species has spread far and wide and pretty much covered the world with their marks. Buildings, statues and manipulated nature to the way they want it. But the individual humans are amazing. I've have heard such stories! I've heard tales of children saving their families from great fires and individuals willing to lay their lives down for others. Humans are survivors, as long as man has existed so have the miracles of man. The same things that are of great evil can also be of great good. For example, religion can be used for great evil, like terrorism and ritualistic murders but it is also a great thing, many people do such amazing things because they have faith. And then there are those trying to preserve the other races and species they share the world with. Many animals have gone extinct but there are small groups who work ridiculously hard to preserve the balance of the world. I myself sometimes volunteered to watch over my local moor. Ishtar and I would ride with friends and watch the roaming herds of wild horses, cattle, sheep and deer."
"That sounds like a great wonder." Glorfindel replied. "It goes to show that even though many behave with evil in their hearts, they do not represent the views of the few."
"Many in power do have the best intentions in mind, but either power corrupts them or they do not consider the results for the many. In that world the world is pretty much divided by rich and the poor. Those who are better off and those that struggle. When those in power make a decision the poor and the ones that struggle to get by suffer the most. But of course the needs of the many outweigh the few. It has taught the poorer people one thing, to protect their possessions and most importantly their family."
"Yes, you are right humans are survivors." Elladan stated thoughtfully, Haldir nodded silently in return. "Perhaps then there is hope for this world's humans."
"Indeed." Glorfindel replied. "But now is not the time for such talk. I would like to explore more of this mountain-top, particularly the beautiful reservoir."
"Ah! The reservoir! It is a fine body of water." Elrohir answered. "Indeed I think the horses will enjoy such a ride but there is so much more to show. The forest we've been through Is nothing compared to the one on the other side. Come let me show you." Elrohir turned his mare and urged her into a canter which the three stallions quickly copied. They rode back down the mountain and to the basin floor before turning right. They galloped for some time before they saw the welcoming sight of an immense forest. The horse neighed in eagerness and Haldir could feel Phantom add in an extra stride.
In little time they had burst into the foliage in a great show of speed and agility, they jumped over the bushes and quickly pranced and spun over and around trees and shrubs. Elrohir and his mare cantered further into the forest, Haldir thought they would never stop but eventually they burst into an opening and the four pulled to a halt, before them stood an amazing sight, equal to the glowing city of Lothlorien. A building, sheltered by the forest canopy welcomed them with great white walls and a dark oak door.
"No-one lives here, yet we found this building. It was destitute and took a lot of cleaning but eventually it became a haven for my brother and me. Now it is yours as well." Elrohir stated. "We believe that someone must have lived here before but we have investigated and found no one who would claim this building so it is now ours."
Haldir took the tack of his horse and allowed the animal to freely wander before following his fellow elves into the building. Warm oak furnishings and soft, rich furs greeted his eyes. "It is a very beautiful place." He stated. The building was just a one room hut, there was a large amount of furs on one side, clearly a bedding area and a dark mahogany table on the other side of the room. In between both sides of the room, cut into the wall was a fireplace. Overall it was a very simple, but homey place.
"Thank you." Elladan replied. "Please make yourselves at home." He walked over to the fireplace and worked on lighting it.
"I will go catch us some food." Elrohir stated.
Glorfindel nodded. "Whilst they set up why don't I teach you how to make arrows?"
"Yes, please." Haldir replied.
Glorfindel chuckled. "Come on then my friend." He stated before leading the younger elf outside of the building. The elf then began to check the plants around him before he seemed to find the perfect one. "Now tell me Haldir, what is the difference between this branch and the ones around it?"
Haldir analysed the branches with curious eyes. "The other branches seem to be curvier."
"Correct. What I look for when I'm making arrow shafts is a straighter piece of branch. You see Haldir, the curvier the branch is, not only does it make it difficult to cut an arrow from, but also any arrow made from this is more likely to divert in mid-flight. A straighter built branch is a better choice since it is more prone to flying in a straight line." Glorfindel explained. "This branch is a good choice." Haldir nodded his understanding. "Now that I've chosen the wood I ask the tree if it would kindly give it to me." Glorfindel went quiet, his eyes closed, he was clearly talking to the tree.
After a long moment the elf opened his eyes. "The tree has granted my wish, so I now carefully cut the branch off. Now that we have a branch we shave the bark off and carefully cut it into a shaft." He found a place to sit and showed Haldir how to remove the bark. "Now that the bark is gone, I will shave the branch until all that is left is a straight shaft." Using a sharp knife, he did just as he stated and carefully started shaving the branch until it was a straight, firm shaft.
Glorfindel gently put the arrow shaft down and carefully glanced around. Haldir waited for him as he finally spotted what he wanted and grabbed a sharp rock. He then picked up one more rock before retaking his seat. "Normally blacksmiths make the arrowheads, but in times of need we can make arrowheads out of stones. It takes a while longer however as we have to basically hack at stone with another until it's shaped as an arrowhead." He proceeded to show Haldir how to shape the arrow by hacking and smacking the rocks together until the edge of the rock was flat and sharp. It took a lot of time, perhaps an hour or two if not more before the rock even began to look like an arrow.
Once the arrowhead had begun to form Glorfindel smiled. "I don't normally do this but I will make a 'dud' arrow to show you how their made." He stated. He picked up the arrow shaft and with a sharp knife he cut carefully at the tip of the shaft. When he was down the shaft was carefully split in half at the tip. He picked up the arrow he had made and carefully placed the small tab at the back of the arrow into the valley cut into the shaft. Slowly with great care he forced the arrow into the shaft. Once it was in place he pulled out some string and tied it tightly around the area where the shaft and arrow joined. Once he was finished he showed Haldir the finished arrow. "Normally I would take a much greater time to perfect this arrow and secure it much more firmly and I shall teach you to do so in much more detail but for now practice finding and collecting the branches and wood for the arrow shafts, then I will guide you on how to cut and shape them."
"Alright then."
"Let's search for some now and I will show you to cut it this eve or in the morrow." Glorfindel stated, Haldir nodded his agreement. Both stood and thus began to search for straight branches for new arrow shafts.
A/N:- Chapter three! Approximately 11402 words which is about twenty pages!
The water system is quite similar to that of 'spirited away' though I didn't notice at first.
I know that I've made human-kind look pretty bad in the previous chapter and in this one as well but I also hope I've redeemed myself by speaking about the grandness of humans as well!
Elrohir's mare has not been named, I am thinking of some names but if you wish to get involved and suggest names then I will receive them with open arms!
I am eager to here you thoughts and opinions, so please...
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