Not One Of You
By FlamingRebirth
Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings
"Speaking in Elfish."
*Galadriel speaking mentally to Haldir*
Chapter Five: Awkward surprises
Haldir was sat on a log cutting carefully at the end of a long twig, which would eventually become an arrow shaft. He watched the young man before him aim his bow and arrow at the target. Haldir stood and moved over to the young man and gently gripped the young man's hand. "Focus, Aragorn." He instructed. He changed the position to the correct pose and received an approving smile from the twins.
The young boy nodded and followed the twins carefully stated instructions. Haldir smiled softly as he sat back down and returned to his arrow shaft. The boy had changed much since the day he arrived; he was confident and eager to learn. He was a quick learner of the elfish language and was favoured by all the elves who had met him. The only greatest problem was that when groups of men travelled by Rivendell he would often withdraw from everyone and stay far away from the travellers. The elves were still working on helping the man child overcome his fear.
"Haldir." Haldir glanced up as Glorfindel approached. "We will be heading back to Lothlorien in the morrow. We will be leaving early so have everything you own ready and bagged up."
"Why are we leaving?" Haldir asked in curiosity.
"As enjoyable and relaxing as Imladris is we have to return to our home." Glorfindel stated. "We still have our duties."
"What about our horses and Aragorn?" Haldir asked.
"We'll be riding on horse back. Lady Galadriel has given us an area we can keep the horses." Glorfindel's smile was large and so was Haldir's. They would not be parted from their steeds. "Take the opportunity to say farewell to everyone including the twins, it is just you and I who will be travelling this time." Glorfindel continued.
"Very well, I will see you in the morrow." Haldir replied with a small smile.
"See you in the morrow." The older elf replied before disappearing back into the large palace like building.
Haldir sighed and stood walking over to the two elves and the young man. "Friends, listen." The three companions stopped and immediately focused upon him. "I will be leaving in the morrow."
"Why?" Aragorn asked.
"I have neglected my duties back in Lothlorien long enough." Haldir replied. "It is time I returned. However I would like to ask you one favour if I may?" He asked focusing down on Aragorn. The boy nodded his eyes showing his eagerness to hear what the older elf had to say. "I would like for you to take Thorn as your servant. He is a very kind elf and I am sure you'd love him. He'll take care of you."
"Yes of course!" The boy replied.
"Thank you." Haldir replied with a smile. "I have to go now, I need to tell Phantom about what's going on and then pack my things for early in the morrow. However we can spend this evening indulging in each other's company."
"I would like that."
"Then that is what we shall do." Haldir returned. With a small smile he left the man child and the two elves that had become his closest friends. He walked down towards the stables, his sharp eyes analysing the fields trying to see if he could spot Phantom. However it was Phantom that spotted him, Haldir's sharp eyes watched as a dark shape in the distance cantered to the edge of a field, rearing and dancing.
Phantom whinnied as Haldir finally reached the field he was in, he pushed his snout towards Haldir. Haldir chuckled and gently pat the horse's nose. Phantom snorted and then whinnied as he felt Haldir's sombre mood. Haldir smiled. "I am sorry my friend, but I will be leaving for Lothlorien in the morrow but you can accompany me." Haldir explained. Phantom's ears immediately flipped forward and he nickered nudging Haldir's hands. He gently rubbed Phantom's nose, Phantom snuffled, nibbling at his elf's fingers in reply making Haldir chuckle before he frowned. "At first I didn't want you, not because I hated you but because I wanted to go home but now, if I do go home I will miss you dearly."Haldir confessed quietly. "I have another horse, a mare who I love just as much and I've lost her, I don't think I can lose you too." Phantom bumped Haldir's cheek gently with his muzzle offering comfort to his sad rider. Haldir reluctantly left his horse to walk back up to Rivendell palace.
That evening, Aragorn took up all of Haldir's and Glorfindel's time, asking them for their many stories and just simply resting in their arms. The man-child had become very fond of the two elves, saying goodbye to those who had protected him when he was weak would be very difficult for Aragorn. The elves could only hope that Aragorn truly understood why they had to go and was not pretending to understand just to make them happy. They tried to tell Aragorn why they needed to head home and Aragorn had thought about it before nodding, but still they could not be sure what the young boy was truly thinking. Still, he had Arwen, Elrohir, Elladan and Elrond. He would not be alone.
The next morning the elves shared a quiet breakfast, they were silent as if already grieving their loss of Haldir and Glorfindel. The two elves tried to comfort their hosts but the silent atmosphere remained despite their attempts. The two elves eventually had to state their farewells. Elrond and his children graciously returned them, Haldir was hugged tightly by them all and he embraced them just as firmly. In their time together, Haldir had become a part of their family, he would dearly miss his new friends. Glorfindel was already mounted on his chestnut stallion; Haldir walked over to Phantom and gripped the saddle. Before he could mount he heard a small sound of running feet, he let go of the saddle and turned just in time to catch Aragorn who had thrown himself at Haldir. "You will come back won't you?" The boy asked shyly.
"Of course I will. I have come to care for you a great deal. I will not forget you. I shall write to you oft, would you like that?" Haldir asked. The boy nodded. "Then you shall hear from me soon and perhaps one day you can visit me in Lothlorien like I will be visiting you, here in Rivendell."
"I would like that." Aragorn whispered.
"Then that is what we shall do. You shall hear from me soon." Haldir stated kissing the man-child's forehead. "This is not goodbye. I shall see you later." Aragorn giggled as Haldir finally lowered him to his feet. The boy raced back to his adoptive family who embraced him gently. Haldir smiled and mounted Phantom. The stallion arched his head, neighing a farewell to the gathered elves and then lowered his head to Aragorn. Haldir chuckled gripping the reigns and gathering Phantom's head, with a wave which was returned by all, even Aragorn who waved very shyly, the two elves trotted from the small courtyard.
"That child will grow to be a wonderful man." Glorfindel commented as the horses moved into a canter. Haldir merely smiled as the negotiated the trails leading to and from Rivendell. It felt wonderful riding out into the distance like they had done so, so often, yet both could feel the heavy weight in their chests knowing that unlike before, they would not be returning to Rivendell so soon.
The two elves cantered across the top of the mountains, their steed's hooves easily handling the rocky surfaces. They watched the wild life scattered as they raced past, Haldir laughed out loud his joyous mood passing to his companion as they raced one another across the mountain. Phantom neighed, taunting Swiftfoot who merely snorted as he sped up to keep up with the younger stallion. Haldir and Glorfindel did not stop, even as night fell. The mountain range that connected Rivendell with the rest of the Middle Earth was vast and they had not yet even found a way off the mountain tops. Haldir was silently pleased however; the forests felt off, creepy and even Phantom was warily glancing down at the forest beneath them. "What's down there?"
"It could be many things." Glorfindel replied not slowing down, "It could be Orc, Goblins, spiders or some other unknown creature. But I suggest we avoid the forest until sunrise. Darkness is a dangerous time to be travelling, especially alone. We'll keep moving for now; these horses can go many days and nights without food and still not become tired. Until then we will ride. We can make it to Lothlorien in a few days ride, if we continue at this pace."
"We will have to stop eventually."
"Yes, but not for some time." Glorfindel replied glancing down at the dark trees beneath them warily.
It actually took almost two days to reach a way off the mountain top. A natural path had been worn down by many hooves and feet. Glorfindel dismounted and checked the trail. "Many mounted men passed through here recently." He told Haldir. "We must be wary, I do not know of any humans who come up this mountain that oft. If they do not belong to Kings or Lords, then they are renegades and therefore a danger. Many are slavers and Elves are fair game. Fortunately they have never succeeded and Elven slaves are not sought out that much, because the slaves oft become empty shells or die from grief and pain. However I do not want to suffer that fate."
"What do you suggest?" Haldir asked.
"They went down this path; we will continue further along the mountain top to be sure that we will not come across them." Glorfindel replied, remounting Swiftfoot and leading them back upon to the mountain ridge. They kicked their steeds into a Gallop, the horses of Rivendell were fast and no normal horse or human owned horse could keep up with them. They did not slow for many hours, only once they were sure there was no chance of being followed did they slow to a canter. "Even though they may not have seen us, they may still be navigating this way or have found our horses trail. We should not stop."
"It was not this dangerous when we journeyed to Rivendell." Haldir commented.
"We were not alone, there were many of us. Now there is only two and whilst we are strong and able to fight, even we will not be able to hold off all our attackers, especially if they're a large group like those tracks suggested. Like I have stated, we must stop only when we absolutely need to, otherwise we are endangering ourselves and our horses." Glorfindel glanced back at Haldir and Haldir nodded his understanding.
The two companions remained quiet for some time after that and the silence remained until Phantom squealed his hooves smacking against the ground as he stubbornly remained still. Glorfindel trotted forward to see what was wrong but Swiftfoot snorted and halted. Both elves tried to get their steeds to move but the horses did not, Haldir was about to ask Phantom what was wrong when he finally saw it. A large group of elf riders were cantering through the forest. "They are wood elves, they hail from Mirkwood."
"That does not explain why the horses suddenly stopped." Haldir replied. The answer became clear as they watched the elves turn as one and charge a giant spider emerging from Mirkwood forest. The moment the spider fell dead, Haldir felt Phantom calm beneath him and finally the two stallions continued moving. The wood elves turned and easily saw their audience, cantering to meet them halfway.
"Greetings, Glorfindel." One stated bowing his head towards Haldir's companion.
"Greetings, Galahad." Glorfindel replied. "Allow me to introduce my companion, Haldir."
"The one who hails from another time and place." Galahad asked. "It is an honour. Our Lord, King Thrandril is eager to make you acquaintance. Would you honour the wood elves by joining us this fine evening?"
"I am afraid we cannot." Glorfindel replied. "I received word that we are needed as soon as possible back in Lothlorien. However we would very much like this invitation to remain open for the future."
"It is, perhaps you would allow us to escort you to our borders." Galahad asked.
"We would be grateful for the company." Haldir replied.
"We have so far avoided human renegades and we believe we may have avoided a company of Orcs." Glorfindel explained. "We would gladly accept Elvin companionship."
"Then we shall escort you." Galahad replied with a smile turning his grey mare toward Lothlorien and leading his company and the two tried elves. Haldir glanced cautiously at some of the other elves. Three were talking among themselves but four of the other six were staring at him with desire clear in their eyes. Haldir turned away, ignoring them for the moment. "I heard you visited Rivendell for some time." Galahad was saying. "May I inquire you reasoning?"
"I enjoy visiting Lord Elrond and his family." Glorfindel replied. "I believed it would also be refreshing for my companion who had only seen Lothlorien since his surprising arrival."
The elf turned to face Haldir, "How was the visit?" He asked his eyes alight with genuine curiosity.
"It was interesting and enjoyable." Haldir replied honestly. "I look forward to revisiting them in the future."
"Perhaps you will be eager to revisit Mirkwood, when you have found the time to visit." Another elf stated with a teasing smile. Haldir allowed a small but annoyed smile to appear on his face, knowing the elf's true reasoning behind that sentence and it was not 'pure'.
"Behave yourself Raphael." Galahad told the elf who merely smiled at his leader and focused his gaze on Haldir's backside. Haldir did not dare to glance back knowing it was not just 'Raphael' staring at him, or rather his ass. "So tell me Haldir how you came to Middle Earth. I've heard tales but I'd rather hear it from you if you do not mind."
"Does everyone know how I came to be here?" Haldir asked in annoyance and reluctant amusement.
"News travels fast, particularly among elves." Glorfindel answered. "It is very difficult to keep a secret for long." The elf continued glaring at Galahad.
"Fine." Haldir muttered. "I was walking home from a bar, I walked through a small woodland, like I do almost every day and then suddenly I was in Lothlorien surrounded by crazy elves." Haldir summarised earning joyous laughter from the 'crazy elves'. Glorfindel grinned in amusement and Haldir chuckled. "I still think most of you are crazy…" He muttered with a smile. The elves sensitive hearing easily picked up the whispered sentence and musical laughter was heard once more echoing through the trees.
The Mirkwood elves then took turns to tell tales of their woodland home and Haldir could not hide his shiver at the two words 'Giant Spider'. One thing was sure, Haldir would not be rushing to visit Mirkwood any time soon. Soon the time to part came and the Mirkwood elves reluctantly halted their mounts. They shared farewells before Glorfindel and Haldir cantered into the trees with smiles on their faces as they realised that home was not far away. Soon they'd be in the company of their family and friends once more, safe and sound.
As they disappeared into the trees they heard the stampeding of hooves which told them the Mirkwood elves had turned back and were most likely heading home themselves. Haldir sighed. "Are all elves perverted? First the twins and now those guys…" He asked his older and wiser companion.
Glorfindel laughed joyously. "We are sensual creatures, Haldir and you look very beautiful and attractive. There is no question that many desire you… and will continue to desire you even after you claim another or are claimed." Haldir flushed at the thought. Glorfindel stared incredulously at Haldir. "Have you never noticed the lustful stares of others around you? Many desire you." Glorfindel added staring at Haldir and making an obvious motion of looking Haldir up and down. "You are very attractive." He purred. Haldir blinked as he felt himself blush and he turned his head away trying to avoid his companion's gaze. "Beautiful." Glorfindel whispered but the older elf did not move to touch Haldir.
A short while later familiar forms jumped to the branches above them and the two elves pulled their steed's to a halt. "Malion. It is good to see you." Haldir greeted bowing his head to the elf.
"It is good to see you well, young one. Welcome home. Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn await you." Malion stated.
"Then who are we to keep them waiting." Glorfindel replied with a smile. Swiftfoot immediately trotted forward heading to where they knew the hidden city of Lothlorien was hidden. Phantom immediately followed, Haldir gently guided the tired stallion around the tall trees and sharp roots. The horse blew through his nose, resting his muzzle on Swiftfoot's hind quarters, trusting the older horse and Haldir to guide him to Lothlorien safely. Swiftfoot let out a small snort, almost like a grunt as he stopped, the welcome sight of the glowing elven city before their eyes. Haldir and Glorfindel dismounted and led their horses to a small pool. The horses grunted their thanks and immediately quenched their thirsts.
"We should have stopped and allowed the horses a rest." Haldir stated concerned at how thirsty the horses were.
"We should have, but at the time we could not risk it. However they can rest now, we will not need them for some time." Glorfindel answered. "When we return we will brush them down and allow them free reign of the forest, a little bit of freedom will do them no harm, in fact it may do them some good." Haldir nodded in agreement and followed his friend to their Lord and Lady.
"Glorfindel, Haldir. Welcome back." Lady Galadriel greeted with a smile. "You are looking very well, visiting Rivendell has done you both some good. I look forward to any tales you choose to share with us."
"I look forward to sharing some of our stories, my Lady. However I must inform you of something, which is of great importance." Glorfindel replied. "Isildur's heir has been found." Gasps could be heard from all who listened. Haldir though was unmoved, he knew the tale but he still did not completely understand. "He is nothing more than a child who has suffered more than a child should suffer. We left him in the caring hands of Lord Elrond and his family. His name is Aragorn."
"This is both good news and bad news. With the finding of Aragorn, time turns against elves, men and free kind." Lady Galadriel stated. "In many years from now shadows will fall upon all lands and it will be up to a great fellowship to lead us to the light." She muttered clearly unaware of the elves listening to her unblinkingly. "If they fail all of Middle Earth shall fall. But the hero will be someone who was once invisible to our sharp eyes. He will lead Middle Earth into a new Era, and Era of peace for all peoples."
Haldir mentally sighed, the whole situation was surreal. How could a child, a poor abused child like Aragorn fight against 'the shadows' and 'darkness', what was worse was Lady Galadriel spouting off prophecies. Hadn't the boy suffered enough? Did he have to be raised just to fight their war for them?
*It is everyone's war, child. But Aragorn will have the choice to fight or ignore the call to war. But do not fear, my child. The time of shadows will not come for some time. You need not concern yourself with talk of war. Besides you and Glorfindel need rest. You will not need to return to duty today, you may relax and rest.* Lady Galadriel smiled gently. "I permit you the day off from your duties, you have travelled fast to reach home and are tired because of your long journey. Rest and relax this day."
"Thank you, my Lady." Haldir replied simultaneously with Glorfindel.
"Oh. Haldir. This came for you whilst you were gone." His Lady passed him an envelope and his hope soared. The people in Middle Earth rarely used envelopes, they used scrolls which meant this must be from his mother. He held it tightly in his hands, thanking Lady Galadriel before quickly disappearing, not eager to read his letter under so many sharp eyes.
Before he could return to the home he shared with his brothers, he had to deal with Phantom. He folded the letter and slipped it into a pouch on his belt before reaching the tired bay stallion. Phantom greeted Haldir warmly, his wet muzzle pressing into Haldir's shoulder. Haldir chuckled and gently removed the bridle. Phantom opened and closed his mouth a few times getting used to not having the bridle. Shortly after that Haldir quickly removed the saddle and saddle pads. The horse's fur was messed up but fortunately Phantom's back was not sore and a quick brush soon had the fur laying the right way. Haldir patted Phantom's muzzle. "You are free to explore my friend. This forest has little danger, but still be careful." Phantom bowed his large head, nodding his understanding before joining Swiftfoot into the trees.
With Phantom gone, Haldir immediately head home climbing the tree's paths with ease. Rumil and Orophin joined him. The climb to their 'treehouse' was quick and quiet, Haldir's whole focus was on the letter that was now in his hand. He walked inside their home and immediately took a seat. His brothers shifted uncomfortably. "Do you wish for us to leave?" They asked.
Haldir frowned. "No. This can only be from mother. And if it is, she is your mother too and you have every right to read it."
"But we cannot read it."
"Then I will read it to you, if it is from mother." Haldir replied. His two brothers sat being careful not to surround him. He recognised his name written on the envelope, it could only be his mother's handwriting. He opened it up and smiled at the hastily written scrawl that could only be his mother's writing.
My son, my dear Haldir,
I miss you my child, but I have a feeling you're in a better place where you will be treasured for being the intelligent, handsome young elf you are.
Yes, my son. Elf. You are an elf. I am sorry I lied to you for so long, I'm sorry for telling you that elves only existed in story books. But how would you have reacted if I told you your father was an elf from another world, another dimension. Would you have believed me? Even as I write this I cannot quite believe it myself. If I had not lived what I had lived I would believe myself to be insane, but it is all true.
I guess my tale begins long ago. I had only just turned twenty when it had happened. I had been out celebrating with the girls when I decided to take a short cut. I did not realise it because I cannot 'hear' the trees like you can, but I somehow ended up in Lothlorien forest. The native elves were wary of me at first, after all they could not trust someone who just suddenly appeared out of thin air. But eventually the accepted me because Lady Galadriel 'saw' that what I said was truth. I was never one of them and they were eager to send me off at first, but I earned the trust and love of one of them. My sweet, loving Aidan. We mated with permission of the Lord and Lady and I lived as one of them. I had two children, Orophin and Rumil. I was carrying you when it came to an end. I was on the forest floor collecting herbs for your older brothers when I realised I was back…. 'home'.
And so you were born in my original time or world and I had to protect you from the truth. Who knows what would have happened if anyone found out your true parentage. I could do little more than watch as you suffered oblivious to your heritage. You're beautiful because you are elven, and elves are the purist creatures I've seen. You're intelligent because you choose to be intelligent and I am proud that you chose to learn.
I wish I could tell you these words in person, but I doubt I'd ever be allowed to return to the beautiful forests of Lothlorien. So I can only leave you with these words. I love you and have never been more proud of you. I am sorry for all you have suffered. I should have been a better mother. I want you to live with these elves, your family, friends, brother's and enjoy life. Do not worry for me or Ishtar, we are well. Ishtar knows you are where you belong and whilst she misses you dearly, she is also happy for you. I will take care of Ishtar. I just hope there is someone there to take care of you like I never did. Perhaps your father is still there, I hope he is and he has not died of grief for my loss. If he does live pass on my love to him.
And to my other sons, you were never forgotten. I have always remembered you, Rumil and Orophin. My children. My beautiful children, your youngest brother has returned to you and I pray you protect him like you would each other.
Goodbye my sons. Have a very long and joyous life and know I am very proud of you all.
You're loving Mother.
Cassandra x
Haldir gently stroked the paper, his fingers rubbing over rippled paper where tears had clearly fallen. Now he had read her words, he could not blame her for his suffering, because she had tried to stop it for him. She had held him in his arms protecting him from all else. Now he understood and he loved her. She had never failed as a mother, she had done what she could under such difficult circumstances. It must not have been easy for her to pretend her mate and her older children were not real. Yet she had done what she needed to do to make the world safer for Haldir.
Rumil and Orophin were silent, after having listened to Haldir translate the words; they too had much to think about. Their father had indeed died grieving for the mother they had never known and she loved him even now, unknowing of his death. But what really had them thinking was the words Haldir had reluctantly translated, when they had listened to how he had been treated they seemed to shift closer as if to protect him from harm and that was when Haldir finally realised that these elves were his brothers, he finally had a family, people willing to protect him, no matter what.
Haldir read through it many times for his brethren and told them their mother's name. They listened eagerly wanting to know as much about their unknown mother as possible. He told them stories about her and tales of the world he lived in before he arrived in Middle Earth. By the evening they were huddled tightly together, reading, re-reading, telling tales, remembering, imagining and enjoying each other's company. Finally the time for bed arrived and Haldir's two older brothers placed Haldir's letter in a safe place where it could be protected by all of them, before heading to bed.
The next morning, Haldir awoke with a smile he stood and dressed, before securing his weapons and cloak. As he did so his mobile phone and keys slid out of one of his pouches. He gripped them staring down at what was left of his past life. "It's time to let them go." He stated out loud. He had carried these objects everywhere with him with the hope of returning home, but now he wanted to stay. He walked into their shared area of the tree house and approached the small chest where his letter lay. With a small, fond smile he placed the objects inside and closed the lid. He would never forget them, nor would he throw them away, they were valued memories but he did not need them with him at all times. He could not let his old life hold him back in his new life. Haldir turned and met the proud gazes of his older brothers who had seen his act. He had let go of his human life and accepted his elven life and their eyes showed their joy at his decision. They embraced him warmly and led him from their home.
Many elves greeted them warmly as they arrived at the large dining hall and Haldir could only smile as his back was patted and he was embraced by many of his comrades and friends. Finally they found a place to sit and Haldir relaxed a warm smile on his face as his brothers sat across from him. "What has been going on whilst I was gone?" He asked curiously.
"Other than receiving the letter, nothing happened. We patrolled, hunted and just carried on as normal." Orophin replied before biting into some Elfish bread.
"We had a few elven visitors from Mirkwood." Rumil added. "King Thrandril wishes to meet you. Word of who you are has spread amongst the elves. I have no doubt some will travel here personally to meet you and hear your tale."
Haldir sighed in annoyance at that and slumped. "Yes, I know. Glorfindel and I met a scout group on our way back. They were… very interested in me and who I was…" Haldir replied cringing as he remembered 'Raphael's' attitude and blatant staring. "I hope Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn do not expect me to meet them so soon."
"No. The Lord and Lady informed them that you would visit them when you were good and ready and that forcing you would reflect them badly and make you uncomfortable. King Thrandril sends his regards and hopes that you would like to visit him some time in the near future." Orophin answered. "However the lady did inform him that you may not visit him anytime soon, especially since you must become used to your new fame."
"We've been permitted to accompany you when you choose to go." Rumil added. "So you will not be alone, I'm sure Glorfindel will gladly accompany us as well."
"I'm sure he would…" Haldir replied wryly. Orophin and Rumil glanced towards each other and smiled when they understood Haldir's words.
"Haldir. Would you please accompany me for a moment?" Malion asked.
Haldir frowned at the elf's serious expression and nodded. "Of course, my friend." Haldir replied with a smile before turning to face his brothers. "I will see you later." He told them. They both smiled and bowed their heads in agreement.
"Now then young one, I would like to inform you of something." Malion stated once they were up in the tree tops far away from their home.
"Why have we travelled so far? I do not understand why we need to be this far, just for you to tell me something." Haldir replied concerned.
Malion smiled softly. "Haldir. Please listen." At the elder elf's serious words, Haldir focused on him. "The time will soon come where I will step down from my position as Marchwarden of Lothlorien and another will take my place. I've decided the time has come for another elf to take my place and I can think of none who are more suitable than you."
"Me?"
"Yes you. You came to this world with no knowledge of self-defence or the knowledge of the land and now you are one of the best warriors we have. There can be no one better than you."
"But…"
"I will not take no for an answer young one. I've already informed our Lord and Lady of my choice and they approve whole-heartedly. I've have called you out here not only to inform you of this but to begin teaching you your new duties. You will be gradually taking authority over our group until I am no longer needed." Malion told him bluntly.
"I'm not ready!" Haldir whispered, over-whelmed.
"Young one, you have always been ready. You've proven yourself time and time again. You are a worthy leader to our group and a worthy Marchwarden for the elves of Lothlorien." Malion replied. "Tell me what the protocol is if we have intruders."
"We observe, if they are orcs or other foul creatures we attack. If they are human or elven we observe and listen to the conversation to detect whether they mean harm to us or not. Then we confront them."
"What next?"
"We question them and if they intend harm we either kill or exile them from the forest, if they are friend we send a scout to our Lord and Lady and request permission to escort them to Lothlorien." Haldir answered.
"You are ready. More than ready." Malion replied. "The others have been informed of my choice and will obey your commands like they would my own. In fact they will expect me to defer to you more oft than not."
Haldir blinked and bit back a groan. "Why was I not informed of this decision?"
"Because we knew you'd object and complain. But I believe you are my worthy successor and I will not listen to your complaints. Now let us review the hand signs and sounds we use to communicate with each other…." Malion followed these words with a thorough lesson on hand signs before forcing Haldir to take the lead on a small hunt for rabbit. Haldir felt his cheeks heat in embarrassment as he, yes he, ordered his boss to do something and the elf obeyed with a cheeky grin.
That evening, the two elves re-joined their scouting group who were prepared and waiting. Haldir could not help but glare at them as they smirked knowingly. In an obvious move to further embarrass Haldir, Malion repeated his instructions to listen to Haldir when he gave instructions. The elves smiled and bowed in submission to Haldir whose scowl deepened much to their amusement. "Right, let's take to the trees." Malion instructed before leaping to the nearest branch and leading the way to the tree tops. "Haldir, take Orophin, Rumil, Forough and Eidan to the west. I will take the rest to the East."
Haldir bowed his head in agreement and turned, rapidly moving to the west and leaving the rest of the scouting group behind. He paused on a large tree branch and felt his companions land either side of him. "Eidan, Forough, take the lowest branches, scout the forest floor for any movement. Orophin, Rumil go higher and watched for any trespassers." He instructed. The elves immediately obeyed leaping away and leaving Haldir alone. Haldir sighed a smile coming to his lips and a blush gracing his face as he finally had the privacy he needed to think of his new promotion. The fact that all the elves approved of him, a youngling, taking such a promotion spoke of how highly they thought of him. After all he was merely twenty-four years old. Or at least he thought he was. Time past differently here to his old home, but he did remember that he was twenty when he first joined the Lothlorien elves.
Haldir shook his head, now was not the time to reminisce. He leapt through the trees, his sensitive hearing and eyesight easily picking out his four companions ahead of him as they scouted the forest floor and tree-tops. Haldir halted as he noticed movement and whistled halting his companions. The elves turned and spotted what he was seeing. A herd of deer had moved into a small clearing and were grazing on the grasses there. Haldir signalled to Orophin and Rumil to take the shots whilst Forough and Eidan continued on.
A series of owl sounding hoots caught Haldir's ears. The sound meant a warning. One of them had found intruders. Quickly he raced as silently as he could to the place the hoot originated. Eidan, sat hunched on top of a large branch, icy blue eyes were looking to the forest floor. Haldir barely noticed the other three elves arriving as he glanced down to the forest floor. Several blue eyes were staring curiously upwards in their general direction. "Mirkwood elves." Eidan stated needlessly.
"They are already aware we are here." Haldir replied. "Forough, go find Malion. Inform him of our guests and then inform the Lady and Lord. Eidan scout the area around them, make sure they're not followed. Orophin, Rumil prepare to back me up if it is necessary. We will be meeting them." Haldir instructed. Forough bowed and disappeared up into the treetops. Eidan slid into the darkness to obey his commands. With the two elves gone and Rumil and Orophin moving into place Haldir jumped down revealing himself to their guests. "You have trespassed into the forest. State your intentions." He demanded.
A young elf with long blonde hair smiled warmly, his soft green eyes glowing with kindness as he stepped forward. The elves around him allowed him to move in front of them but they seemed to shift their weapons, Haldir immediately knew this elf was an important elf. "I am Legolas Greenwood, son to Thrandil. I hail from Mirkwood forest. I am here to visit friends, which includes you my dear friend. Will you grant us safe passage to Lothlorien?" He asked, his voice echoing through the trees like music.
"Welcome Legolas, son to Thrandril." Haldir replied. "Forgive me for my attitude but we were not expecting guests."
"Alas, my father believed it wise to send me on his behalf to speak to Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn, he wishes to extend his friendship to the newcomer, Haldir. Yet he has not received a suitable reply."
"In other words, because I have not accepted his friendship of yet, he is getting more determined to gain my friendship." Haldir muttered in mild amusement.
"Ah so you are Haldir, the newcomer. It is an honour to meet you." Legolas replied with a smirk as he seemed to stare all over Haldir's clothed body. Haldir sighed at this wondering if all elves behaved like horny teenagers. "It would be a great honour and pleasure if I could get to know you."
"I bet it would." Haldir muttered as he listened to his brother's growl and Eidan snicker. The Mirkwood elves heard his companions and glanced around. "Alas, you may be friend but the Lady and Lord must be made aware of your presence before I even consider taking you to them." Haldir stated respectively.
"Understandable, though I believe Lady Galadriel will already have been made aware the moment we entered her grand forest."
"Perhaps, but I must stick to protocol and safety." Haldir replied.
"I am quite happy to wait." Legolas replied with a smile. Haldir felt his eye twitch in annoyance but he did not satisfy the elf with a reply.
"Ah, Legolas. It is an honour." Malion stated, bowing his head in greeting. "I hope your journey was safe." He asked.
"Our journey was fine." Legolas replied. "Though we were not expecting to meet our new friend for some time." Legolas added. "It was a pleasant surprise."
Malion chuckled before turning to face Haldir. "Have the Lord and Lady been informed of our guest's arrival?"
"Forough was to inform them once he had informed you." Haldir replied. "Since you arrived so quickly, I am sure Forough will return just as shortly." Haldir continued. "We just have to wait for confirmation that they can enter from the Lord and Lady."
"I have no doubt they'd give their permission but we will wait for their word." Malion replied approvingly. "Legolas, may I ask why you have come?"
"I have been sent by my father as a gesture of good faith for Haldir, to show that my father's intentions about getting to know you are pure." Legolas replied. "You have visited our brethren in Rivendell for some time but have yet to grace Mirkwood with your presence. We wished to extend our invitation again."
"You invitation and gesture have been well received." Haldir replied. "But I have only just returned from Rivendell and I have no desire to leave Lothlorien at this time. However I would gladly get to know you whilst you are in Lothlorien." Haldir stated.
"Then let's get to know each other." Legolas replied with a warm smile as he approached Haldir only to step back as an angry neigh filled their ears. Phantom cantered in and placed his large intimidating body between them, protecting Haldir from an unseen foe.
Haldir chuckled. "My friend, if you are here where is Swiftfoot." He asked gently rubbing Phantom's muzzle as the horse nibbled gently as Haldir's hands. As if to answer the chestnut stallion walked into the clearing to stand beside Phantom. "Ah Swiftfoot." Haldir greeted. The mighty horse bowed his head in greeting towards Haldir before finding a small patch of grass and tucking in. Phantom had no interest in feeding, or at least no interest in eating grass. If his curious nose was to go by, Phantom was eager for any treats Haldir might have had hidden on his person. "I have nothing on me, Phantom." The horse snorted in disgust, his large head shaking from side to side before he huffed in annoyance.
"They are beautiful animals." Legolas stated cautiously approaching but respectively refraining from touching.
"They are." Haldir replied.
"May I inquire their names?" Legolas asked.
"The chestnut stallion is Swiftfoot, he is Glorfindel's horse. This bay stallion is Phantom and he is my horse." Haldir stated as Phantom sniffed at Legolas, the horse gave a mighty snort and lifted his head high above them as if intrigued yet put off by the scent. Swiftfoot snorted in reply, biting at Phantom's hind leg as if to punish the younger stallion. Phantom cocked his head to the side, his ears pricked as he looked from Haldir to Legolas in a considering manner. The horse seemed to paused for a minute before whinnying in confusion. "What are you thinking you silly stallion?" Haldir asked in amusement.
"Perhaps he can smell Legolas attraction to you." Came a cheerful voice. Seconds later Glorfindel landed beside him with a grin. Haldir blushed and hid his face behind Phantom's body cursing the perverted elf in the human language. Glorfindel merely grinned as he greeted his horse warmly. "Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn welcome you warmly onto our land. They are eagerly awaiting for your arrival in Lothlorien." Glorfindel informed Legolas.
"Then let us not keep them waiting." Legolas returned flowing the group of elves as Glorfindel and Malion led the way through the forest floor. "Since our last visit into your grand forest much has happened. We have many tales to tell if our kin are willing to listen."
"Your stories are most welcome here." Malion replied. "We enjoy hearing the tales from beyond our forests."
"I would also like to hear tales from Rivendell and perhaps from your own home, Haldir." Legolas stated, Haldir merely nodded agreeably in return.
"Perhaps you can tell them off those 'bombs' you spoke of when we were in Rivendell. Or perhaps you will tell us of your own world's horses and of how you learned to ride." Glorfindel added.
"I am unsure what you would want to learn of my riding. I am sure that you learnt to ride in a similar way to myself." Haldir replied.
"Perhaps but I am interested. Especially in your mare, Ishtar. She sounds wonderful, perhaps you can tell us more…" Glorfindel encouraged.
Haldir sighed quietly and thought deeply as Phantom rested his muzzle on Haldir's shoulders. Haldir patted the nose gently as he glanced over his shoulder to Phantom, his eyes were drawn the space between the stallion's ears and Haldir recalled a quote that he read long ago. "'The air of heaven is that which blows between a horse's ears.'" He stated aloud in English.
"That is a beautiful sentence." Legolas stated in English.
"It is a phrase I once read long ago that has stuck with me ever since." Haldir replied. "My mare, Ishtar, she was an Arabian. A very beautiful breed of horse. The Arabian's treasure their horses believing them to be gifts from God himself. For me a horse was a representation of a perfect human. Their strong, powerful yet they are also very gentle and kind. A man named Peter Gray once said 'We have almost forgotten how strange a thing it is that such a huge and powerful and intelligent an animal as a horse should allow another, and far more feeble animal, to ride upon its back.'"
"That is so true." Legolas replied with a smile. "They are such strong animals and many people forget that when they ride them. They think they are property, objects to control, yet you and I both know that they are not property, they are powerful sentient beings." Haldir smiled in return to the elf's words. "When a man and horse ride and they have a strong bond, it is a beautiful, awe-inspiring sight." Legolas added.
"There is no secret so close as that between a rider and his horse." Haldir replied. "All history is filled with horses and their riders. It is horses that will carry men to greatness, the path behind man will be strewn with the bones of horses."
"Is that a quote?"
"Almost, I do not quite recall how it went but it spoke of man and his struggle for freedom. It speaks of man's strength and of how man would not be as great or as glorious as it was today had it not been for horses. Another quote speaks of how difficult horses are, of how they like to trouble their grooms but the moment a young child or a disable person is placed upon their back they become as gentle as lambs."
"Disabled?"
"People with life-long conditions, like mental conditions or physical conditions. Some people are born unable to comprehend the world as many other see it and unable to function like a 'normal' person." Haldir huffed at the word 'normal', to him there was no such word as normal, each individual was unique and special in their own way. "Some suffer from physical conditions like loss of limbs or are born with limbs or parts of the body that don't function properly."
"Oh my God…" Legolas whispered. "We have never had such in this world."
Haldir smiled gently. "Back in my world there are many. Most can survive quite happily in their world easily but many need support because they struggle with what many would consider simple tasks. Horseback riding gives them a taste of freedom, the animals are very gentle with them and it gives them a taste of independence that they desire or can never truly have." He explained. "Animals can sense the need of the people around them and somehow they sense the need from the 'disabled'. I remember a young girl who was suffering from something called 'cancer'. Cancer is basically caused by dead cells spreading until it kills the host."
"A young girl?" Glorfindel asked.
"Yes, she was only eight years old and she looked so tired and sickly. She knew she was dying, even with the doctors doing the best to save her life. Her only wish was that she could complete her dream to ride a horse." Haldir said quietly aware of all elves listening. Many could not understand him but they sensed the sombre mood. Glorfindel, Malion and Legolas listened quietly eager to hear more even as the story saddened them. "When she arrived at the stable all the horses were already mounted, she thought she would never ride but I could not watch her leave without fulfilling her dream so I allowed her to ride Ishtar. Ishtar seemed to know that the girl was special, she was so gentle as she greeted the girl, he muzzle caressing the little girls pale skin. We helped her up onto Ishtar's back and the mare stayed absolutely still. I led Ishtar by her bridle and followed the rest of the group as the little girl held onto the saddle. I told her everything about Ishtar and answered all her questions. I remember glancing back one time and finding her with tears streaming down her face and I asked her if she would like to get down. She told me she wanted to stay up there forever free from everything. She hadn't wanted to come down once the ride was over but unfortunately she had to return to the doctors. A few weeks later I received a package and inside were four apples and a letter. In the letter the little girl thanked me for allowing me to ride Ishtar and asked me to give the mare the apples. She was so grateful to me for allowing her to complete her dream. She even drew Ishtar with her on the mare's back and me stood beside them."
"That girl must have been very happy." Legolas whispered.
"Two years later I got a letter." Haldir continued. "The letter asked me to visit the little girl in hospital. So I took some pictures of Ishtar and took a small clipping of her mane along with some photos of myself and Ishtar. When I arrived in the hospital the little girl was bed-ridden and sicker than ever but her little face lit up at the sight of me. When I gave her my gifts she cried and held tightly to the hair I had taken from Ishtar. Her father and mother thanked me for coming and sat listening as their daughter rambled about Ishtar. I promised to visit her again and again with news of my mare and I kept my promise. When I competed against other riders and won I shared my glory with her and even gave her a share of my winnings."
"I bet she was very happy."
"She was…" Haldir replied.
"What happened?"
"She died." Haldir replied. "Two years later I got a phone call asking me to visit the hospital. I arrived a few hours later to meet her parents. The room she was being kept in was empty, the bed was made. The parents told me she died in the night with Ishtar's hair in her small hands. They asked me to come to the funeral. I did and I gave her a picture of Ishtar and a clipping from Ishtar's mane to be buried with her. A few months later I was asked over, the parents then told me that I was to take a lot of money in thanks for giving their daughter the best end to her life. I tried to refuse but they would not allow it, so instead I invested it on Ishtar knowing that was what she would have wanted."
"I bet she was smiling joyfully at that." Legolas stated his voice suspiciously thick.
"I bet she was. It reminded me of a quote I once read. 'In riding a horse, we borrow freedom.'" Haldir stated not needing to explain what the quote meant.
"The child must have been very grateful for the gift you gave her." Lady Galadriel stated as they approached her and Lord Celeborn.
"She was my Lady and I was honoured to be part of her life. She was a very brave child." Haldir replied. "I have met very few people, very few adults who are as brave as her." Haldir stated.
Lady Galadriel smiled warmly down towards Haldir. *You have a very loving and beautiful soul, young one.* Haldir nodded in return. "Welcome Legolas, Son of Thrandril. It is a pleasure to have you here in our domain. Please step forward so I may greet you properly." Legolas smiled stepping forward and received the Lady warmly as she bestowed gentle kisses on either side of his cheeks. "I will have you escorted to guest chambers." She then turned to face Haldir once more. "Haldir, since patrol has ended would you escort Legolas to his guest chambers." She requested. Haldir sighed quietly but nodded in agreement.
Haldir silently led the elf from the platform and up the trees. Legolas remained quiet allowing Haldir a few moments to think before finally speaking. "You are a very strange elf." Legolas told him.
"How so?"
"Your mannerism, you could have any elf you wanted and yet you do not seem to realise or understand the way they stare at you." Legolas explained. "Have you never…?"
"No." Haldir confirmed shyly. "I've never really been interested and to be honest, I had no friends, so relationships were out of the question."
"That is a shame…" Legolas replied. "You would make a worthy mate. Those humans you lived with could not see the gift you were, but we will not be as foolish as those silly humans." Haldir blushed slightly at those words as Legolas stepped a little closer.
Haldir sighed with relief as they finally arrived at the spare quarters and opened the door. "This is where you will be staying." He told the elf as they stepped inside. He sound of the door closing behind him was nerve-racking as he turned to face Legolas who was staring at him with a strange expression. "Legolas?" He asked curiously.
"Haldir." The elf replied with an indescribable tone of voice. "I would like the honour of being your mate." The elf stated bluntly as he stepped closer and closer to Haldir. Haldir swallowed loudly and backed away, unknowingly backing into a wall. Before he could think to escape two arms blocked his escape paths either side of him and he was forced to meet darkening blue eyes. Legolas was taller than him by just an inch or so but the elf seemed taller as he hovered over him. "Would you grant me the honour of being your mate, Haldir?" Legolas asked, his voice but a whisper as he leant forward and spoke into Haldir's ear.
It took a few moments for Haldir to respond, the breathy voice of Legolas was doing things to his body that he had never really felt before. Yes he had 'self-pleasured' but never had a 'voice', a mere voice made him feel such desire. "I…" Haldir hesitated, Legolas did not wait, the elf immediately leant forward and pressed his lips to Haldir. The heat from the elf's skin and that wet tongue lapping at his lips had Haldir gasping, the gasp turned into a quiet moan as the tongue slipped inside his mouth and explored his wet cavern. How could something like this be so pleasurable?
Legolas did not release him until they were both desperate for air. Haldir panted, unsure how to react to what had just happened. "Do you grant me the honour of being your mate?" Legolas asked again.
"I…I…" Haldir paused unable to answer. "I've never…"
"This was your first kiss?" Legolas asked, Haldir shyly nodded. "Then it seems you have much to learn, my friend." The elf stated softly. "If you do not wish to be my mate, then so be it, I will not hold it against you. But would you allow me to teach you about pleasure? I will be gentle, I promise." Haldir blushed, mortified by the conversation, never had one spoken so freely of sex before him. "Do not be shy." Legolas encouraged.
"I'm sorry but I can't…" Haldir protested. "I need to go."
"At least promise you'll think about it." Legolas pleaded not letting Haldir go.
"I'll think about it." Haldir obediently replied. Legolas sighed easily seeing his words for the lies they were but he released Haldir and smiled gently. Haldir quickly evacuated the guest quarters and raced to his and his brother's hut, hiding in his room. Until he could get the damn blush of his face and forget about that kiss, he was of no use to anyone.
A/N:- Once again I must apologise for such a long delay. Admittedly writing twenty pages a chapter can be time consuming, but in this case I've also had to deal with personal problems. To those reading this fic, thank you for your patience and continued support.
I would definitely appreciate reviews if you're willing to give me them.
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