Not One Of You
By FlamingRebirth
Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings
"Speaking in Elfish."
*Galadriel speaking mentally to Haldir*
Mild Warnings for mild sexual situations and implications... nothing too explicit though.
Chapter six: A fresh perspective
Haldir had skilfully managed to avoid Legolas for the rest of the blonde elf's visit, of course he never openly ignored Lothlorien's guest instead he busied himself with duties preventing Legolas from ever catching him. The blonde elf was determined however and Haldir had often found himself ducking from sight or double backing to avoid the elf. However the time for avoiding the elf had come to an end as he was summoned to see Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn. "You called, my Lord and Lady." Haldir greeted as he walked up to them and bowed his head ignoring the heated gaze of the blonde elf beside him.
"We would like for you to accompany Legolas and his company back to Mirkwood." Lord Celeborn replied quickly dropping the bomb-shell.
"Who will I be taking with me?" Haldir asked.
"Glorfindel and of course your horses." Lord Celeborn responded. "It has come to our attention that we've been…rudely ignoring our cousins in Mirkwood, we are now fixing our mistake. You will represent us whilst you visit their kingdom."
Haldi held back a frown and instead smiled and bowed his head. "Of course my Lord, I will not disappoint you." He answered. "May I leave to prepare Phantom?"
"Of course, Glorfindel has already been informed and should be preparing Swiftfoot." Lady Galadriel answered. "Now, my child, I must speak to Legolas, be assured that he and his company will be here waiting for your return." Haldir nodded relieved that Legolas would not be able to follow him instantly and fled from the area.
Glorfindel already had Phantom and Swiftfoot together in an open area and Phantom looked like he had already been groomed. As if to answer his question Glorfindel turned and smiled. "Greetings young one, Phantom is already groomed; it seems he trusts me enough to allow me that duty but would not allow me to saddle him."
"Thank you Glorfindel." Haldir replied before proceeding to saddle Phantom. The great stallion nibbled at his clothing, his mighty breath warming the skin it touched. Haldir smiled warmly and patted the stallion's nose as he gripped the reigns and led the animal from the clearing. The Mirkwood elves were gathered with the scouting party and Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn. Following Glorfindel's lead Haldir mounted and took the rear of the party escorting the elves back out of Lothlorien forest. Phantom seemed to sense the importance of his duty for his ears carefully flicked in all directions as he listened for any disturbances.
Swiftfoot and Phantom communicated with great rumbling snorts, whinnies and neighs that seemed to shake all those that heard them. Haldir could see Glorfindel talking to Legolas but Haldir merely ignored this and took his guard duty seriously. He was glad he did for there in the distance were humans with bows aiming straight at their party. "Move! Now!" Haldir cried out, almost instantly the two horses let out to roaring neighs, rearing, their great bodies covering the retreating elves. The humans let the arrows fly and Phantom immediately kicked into gear, but it was too late, one struck the horse's flank and another on his back, the third struck Haldir in the arm. Haldir cried out as he felt the arrow bury itself deep into his flesh, he could feel himself falling but managed to hold on. Phantom sensing the needs of his rider raced into the trees, whinnying in distress.
Haldir dismounted on unsteady feet and readied his bow, despite the arrow he managed to get several shots. The humans realising they had taken on too strong a quarry quickly fled, but the damage was done. Glorfindel and Haldir had been hit. Glorfindel fortunately on received a hit on the leg but Haldir's wound was much graver, he was losing a lot of blood and he knew using the bow had made his wound much worse. Light headed he watched distantly as he was instructed to lie down. A medic placed some sort of herb over his wound before gripping the arrow. He glanced at Haldir as if waiting for permission, Legolas and Glorfindel both sat nearby each touching him to offer support as he nodded. The elf pulled the arrow out quickly and Haldir could not help the cry that escaped him. He barely saw Glorfindel and Legolas wince in compassion and sympathy but the worst was over, the elf could not repair the damage inside the arm but he cleaned and carefully stitched the skin around it. The rest was up to Haldir's body, to prevent him using his arm and making the damage worse, his arm was tied securely to his chest.
"We should turn back." Glorfindel stated as he too went through the medic's treatment. "Phantom is in no condition to carry you." Indeed Phantom looked a little worse for wear; his right hind led was bandaged and lifted off the ground to relieve the pressure.
"The arrows did not penetrate deep." One of the elves told them. "In fact I believe he will heal quickly but it would be unwise to burden him too much. We shall place the supplies and bags on his back, he can carry them. Your horse can carry you, Glorfindel and Haldir could walk."
"I will walk; it will do me no harm."
"I'm sure Swiftfoot would not mind an extra passenger if you tire." Glorfindel was quick to assure, as if to answer, Swift foot's muzzle touched Haldir's cheek as if in comfort and acceptance. Phantom snorted and glared at the older stallion but the elder horse merely snorted and continued to nuzzle Haldir's cheek. Haldir gently patted the horse's nose and stood on shaky legs. "Mirkwood is not that far, it will take little more than a day's journey."
"Mirkwood is not that far? Then why is Rivendell so far?" Haldir asked curiously.
"It is where Lord Elrond chose to settle." Glorfindel explained. "Some human's assume that we are apart because Lord Elrond is a… 'half-elf' but this is not the case at all, it was merely where we chose to settle and as you have seen our friendship with Lord Elrond is strong." Haldir nodded indicating his understanding. Glorfindel mounted with the aid of another elf and Phantom's reigns were handed to Haldir.
Glorfindel took the lead but Haldir walked in the middle of the group since he would not be able to defend them if they came across more trouble. "Legolas." Haldir asked as the elf walked beside him. The elf smiled and glanced at Haldir to show he was listening. "Are we going to come across more spiders? On our return from Rivendell Glorfindel and I came across a Mirkwood scouting party dealing with a huge spider, would we also have to deal with them?"
"Don't like spiders?" Legolas asked in sympathy as Haldir nodded. "We rarely come across them for we know where they like to dwell. Be assured that it is very unlikely we will come across any spiders."
"Good." Haldir murmured. Phantom snorted his agreement and Haldir could hear him ambling behind him. Phantom was resting his nose on Haldir's shoulder obviously seeking comfort which Haldir happily obliged, patting the animal's large nose. "Hopefully the journey won't be too long my friend." He whispered to the horse in English. Phantom brushed his nose to Haldir's cheek in reply and Haldir smiled.
"Do you speak to your horse in the common tongue often?" A elf close by asked.
Haldir chuckled. "No, Lady Galadriel never approved. You see I did not speak Elven when I first arrived and she wanted me to learn so the common tongue was banned. She does not really like me speaking it but I sometimes slip up and speak the common tongue without thinking. Phantom has learned my original language through me and I like to speak to him in my original tongue every now and then."
"To have some privacy?" The same elf asked curiously.
"I suppose. I've never really thought of it, but I guess it does give me some privacy, though many elves can speak common tongue and understand what I say." Haldir replied. "To be honest I just speak it because it is my own, it was the language I have spoken since I was able to talk." The elf seemed to accept his explanation and left him be.
"Do you feel cheated that Lady Galadriel has stopped you speaking it?" Legolas asked as he gently ran a hand down Phantom's withers. The horse snorted but accepted the touch. "After all wasn't she banning a part of what you are?"
"No, Lady Galadriel knew that I would struggle to speak Elven if I wasn't banned from speaking the common tongue. I hardly knew anyone and those I did could speak the common tongue, so I had no need to learn, by introducing me to my brothers who could only speak Elven and ban the common tongue she was forcing me to learn." Haldir replied. "It was a very effective method." Haldir added with a grin.
"Yes, you are very fluent, I had not known you were the stranger until I was informed." Legolas replied with a warm smile. "You are a fast learner. Many men have struggled to learn our tongue, only a few can; instead we speak their tongue because we find the common tongue relatively easy to learn."
"Really?" Haldir asked incredulously. "Please do not tell me you learn from those scrolls. When I read the writing on them, I thought it was gibberish."
"You cannot read the common tongue?"
"Ah…you see that is the difference between my original world and this one." Haldir replied. "You see I did not know I was speaking the common tongue. I was speaking English."
"English?"
"Yes, English. How I would write is different from how you would write." Haldir clarified. "Some of the lettering is the same but how you write it down is different from how I would write it down."
"I would like to see this written English." Legolas replied. "Do you have any examples of your written language?"
"Currently no, but when I get the opportunity I will show you." Haldir promised."But I doubt that will be for some time."
"Perhaps there is a way I can see your writing, the soil is soft and easy to manipulate, when we rest I would like to see your writing." Legolas replied. "It amazes me that beyond our world that there is another!"
"Some of the wisest of the world I come from have already worked out that there are multiple worlds and an infinite amount of realities." Haldir replied. "They believe that for every decision we make another 'us' in another 'reality' is taking the alternate choice."
"Fascinating, but also quite frightening." Glorfindel commented. "Our lives are our own and yet the people you come from believe there are many of us. If what they theorise is true our lives are not just our own."
"It can be a frightening idea." Haldir replied agreeably. "But it is simply an idea; there is no proof, so there is no truth in the theory. However many wise minds believe it true. However we do know that we are not alone. There are millions of planets out there in the stars and those planets have the chance to contain life. You see our planet, Earth was created by mere accident, but we don't know the circumstances of its creation. What we believe is that there was nothing, just empty space and then an explosion of some kind created rocks, flames, light into the darkness. Over time the rocks collided, stars were formed. Some of the stars became so huge that they pulled rocks towards them, these rocks became planets and the star became a sun. But life started by accident, asteroids that were iced over from travelling through the cold emptiness of space hit our world depositing water and mixing with the lava from the volcanos. Slowly our planet changed and evolved and life spawned from the hot pools."
"That is an interesting theory."
"It is not a theory. We know we are virtually identical to all life. Humans from the other world have mastered the ability to look into a life, to see what life is made up from. They call it DNA and they share a large percentage of DNA with the majority of the animal species. What happened is that in the hot pools the 'DNA' joined up together to create life and then over a very long time, millions of years in fact, life evolved into the great variety it is today."
"So they can prove that that is true?"
"They have proved it." Haldir corrected. "And that is why I don't like apes…they look too much like humans." Haldir stated before sticking his tongue out in distaste.
"You mean humans are apes?"
"Hmm, I suppose you could say so. A few million years ago back on the other world an ape climbed from the trees and stood on two legs. The creature over time grew taller and hairless until man came about. This is also proved because they found skeletons of long dead creatures and one was remarkably human like but at the same time it was an ape, an animal."
"We believe in something much different. I am sure you have been told of Iluvatar, the Ainur and the Valar." Legolas replied. "What do you think of our beliefs?"
"I could not possibly answer that." Haldir replied. "For I do not know. For a long time I have believed that believing in a greater being was, well without meaning to offend, pointless. I could not put my faith into something that I could not prove existed. You see Legolas; humans use religion to harm others, if someone does not believe what they believe then they kill them. I have seen religion as nothing more than an excuse to kill but now living amongst the elves I see that it is not the religion itself that cause harm but the people who 'believe'. I still do not like religion but I do not judge you for your faith. I accept the teachings but I cannot believe. I hope you respect my choice."
"Of course I respect your choice, we all do. Unlike men we do not force our beliefs on others, I am just grateful that you will listen and accept our choices as well." Legolas replied. "It takes a great person to come from a realm of hatred to accept and respect another way of life. You have proven yourself to be the kindest and most accepting of our kin, your opinions would not taint our view of you in the least."
"We once tried to teach man kind of Iluvatar and they did not accept the teachings, they were determined not to believe and sometimes became violent. Instead of continuing to force their belief in Iluvatar, we merely allowed them to find a faith for themselves." Glorfindel added. "What do you believe?"
"Another difficult question that I cannot answer clearly." Haldir murmured. "I believe in many things. I believe in what I can see, I believe that there is a place for the dead, an afterlife if you will but most importantly I believe that all things no matter if their man or beast deserve the right to live and to make this own choices."
"Well said." Legolas stated approvingly. "All life has the right to live." He murmured. "If only all men could learn such wisdom."
"We are almost to the borders of Mirkwood; we will soon be relatively safe from the human hunters." An elf cried from the front. A wave of relief swept through them all and even the horses seemed to relax.
"Phantom cannot go much further; the wound on his back is painful." Haldir stated when he felt the pained breath of the horse on his shoulder. "Will we be able to rest for a short while?"
"We are not racing to Mirkwood." Glorfindel replied. "Once we pass the borders of Mirkwood it should be fine to rest for a short while."
"Thank you." Haldir replied gratefully as he pet the muzzle resting on his shoulder. "Soon my friend. Soon you may rest." The horse rumbled his thanks and seemed to walk with renewed determination.
The elves were concerned that there may be humans waiting to ambush them but the journey was safe and sound. Despite this the Mirkwood elves spent some time twisting and turning amongst the trees of their homeland until they felt for sure that they could not be tracked. Finally the elves decided to rest and Haldir eagerly relieved Phantom of his burden. The horse shifted as the weight was lifted and the problem became clear, the bags on his back had slipped backwards and had been resting upon his injury. "I am sorry my friend, I had not noticed this." Phantom merely nuzzled his friend in fondness and relaxed as the medic ran gentle soothing hands over the wound.
"It has become inflamed; I fear it may have become infected. I will wash the wound and apply some healing herbs. I believe it wise to wrap this wound so it is not exposed. Can you hold and comfort the stallion? This may be painful and uncomfortable but once it is done the wound should not be as discomforting."
"I will distract him." Haldir promised as he moved to stand by Phantom's head, he held the great stallions bridle in his hand and ran a smoothing hand down the horse's great forehead. "You must be brave for a little while; the medic will help heal you." The horse snorted and obligingly held still as he felt the medic get to work. Haldir frowned quietly as he watched his stallion; eyes were closing and held tight which clearly indicated pain but the massive horse made not a sound. Fortunately it took very little time for the medic to complete his work and Phantom was free to eat grass and relax.
Haldir joined Glorfindel by the small cooking fire and accepted the warm herbal brew gratefully. Glorfindel smiled and rested a hand on his leg. "Does it hurt?" Haldir asked. "I know my arm twinges with pain every now and then."
"Yes it does hurt my friend, I did not feel it much whilst on Swiftfoot because he walked slowly and gently but dismounted and moving around has reminded me of the wound." Glorfindel confessed. "But I will be fine; it probably looks more painful than it is. But your arm on the other hand, the arrow went deep you are fortunate that you have not lost your arm."
"I'm glad it had not come to that."
"As are we all." Legolas commented from his place on the other side of Glorfindel. "I believe that those 'elf-hunters' are growing braver. This is very concerning; it appears we have to ensure our security."
"Indeed. The moment we return to Lothlorien we will inform Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn." Glorfindel agreed.
The break did not last long for the elves feared that the humans may still try to follow them, so once again Phantom was burdened with bags and Glorfindel was upon Swiftfoot's back. They did not travel directly for Legola's home, instead they spent much time twisting and turning, normally Haldir would not mind this but Phantom was clearly uncomfortable and needed rest. It seemed hours before the finally reached the edge of the forest. What met Haldir's eyes made the man raised elf pause in shock. Mirkwood was as unique as Rivendell and Lothlorien. It was a great palace, greater than even Buckingham Palace. The walls were gold almost white, it had a great gate at the entrance and unlike other elf cultures it was more militaristic in its approach. There were many patrols and guards could clearly be seen on the great wall surrounding the city. Haldir could only hope it was not too packed on the inside.
Fortunately the appearance of the great stone wall was deceptive, for inside was paradise. There were great fields and he could see the start of a forest at the edge of the landscape. Littering the pleasant and beautiful landscape was beautiful buildings that shone white in the sunlight. Crowds of elves walked around or sat talking and working, the atmosphere was very pleasant, very peaceful.
"Ah and our newcomer has finally arrived. It is an honour!" Haldir turned in surprise and saw the mightiest figure he had ever seen. This elf was handsome, his eyes as crystalline as the brightest pools, his hair was as blonde and bright as the rays of sunlight, but his build was large and impressive. The size of this elf was impressive and yet intimidating. The clothing that hung off this elf in huge drapes, he wore a golden leafed crown upon his brow as he stepped graciously forward to meet Haldir.
"The honour is mine." Haldir replied bowing his head in respect.
"Welcome Haldir! Welcome! I am fortunate to have been exploring my lands borders when you arrived. I hope you will honour me by joining me for the evening meal."
"I intend to offer them guest rooms in the palace." Legolas stated. "I am sure they will be most gracious and accept the offer to dine with us the eve."
"Very Good! I must now return to my duties but I look forward to seeing you this eve." The king replied before leaving the travelling party alone once more.
Legolas watched his father go before turning to his guests. "Come; let us take your valiant steeds to the stables before we ourselves adjourn to the palace." He stated warmly. Haldir smiled towards the elf grateful that he had thought to ensure Phantom's happiness and safety first. Legolas looked down the hill towards a large and familiar smelling building, the stable. Phantom neighed in greeting to the unknown horses hidden behind those walls. The horses chorused in return, a collection of challenges and greetings. Haldir chuckled as Phantom gained much more energy as they approached despite the injured leg.
Haldir and Glorfindel were allowed to spend much time settling their steeds before returning to Legolas. The blonde elf sat patiently at the edge of the stable watching them with an expression akin to jealousy and desire. Haldir approached slowly following his elder teacher, Glorfindel. "I trust they will be taken care of? I may not be able to visit for some time." Glorfindel stated looking down at his bad leg.
"Yes, they will take good care of those fine steeds, rest assured." Legolas assured. "I suggest we get you both inside have your wounds rechecked. I will also request food and drink."
"I would like that." Haldir replied agreeably. "We could use the time to study some text and I can show you my writing like you requested."
"I would enjoy that." Legolas replied warmly. "You can join me in my private chambers, it will be some time before they prepare spare guest quarters so we can enjoy our free time relaxing, feasting and debating."
"Indeed. Your view on subjects is refreshing and somewhat new to us. I thoroughly enjoy our debates." Glorfindel added.
"Then I will happily give you my opinions." Haldir replied warmly. "Do you need some aid walking my friend or do you feel well enough to make the journey to the palace?"
"I am fine, as I said earlier the appearance of the wound is worse than the pain itself." Glorfindel assured. "Let us head inside, the sooner we rest the sooner these wounds heal."
"Mine will take some time." Haldir replied. "But I make no complaint, I'd rather let it heal slow than have to lose the arm."
"Indeed." Legolas replied gently. "It was your awareness and fast actions that saved us today. My people owe you their lives and no doubt if you had not raised the alarm we would have received far more serious injuries. Your horses too were valiant to act as shields. Such bravery will not go un-rewarded, I will inform my father as soon as I am able, you will be celebrated as the heroes you are."
Haldir blushed. "You need not do that. I am just glad I was able to aid you." He replied as he followed Legolas out of the stable and towards the great shining palace. Haldir watched as the elf soldiers parted and saluted their prince as Legolas passed, he felt their curious gazes on him and he barely held back a blush. Legolas fondly greeted his friends and quietly assured Haldir that they would soon be in his quarters; despite this assurance Haldir was very uncomfortable.
Glorfindel and Haldir followed Legolas into his private chambers and waited politely for Legolas to instruct them to seat. The Mirkwood elf was extremely kind and thoughtful, his first action was to make a place for Glorfindel to sit and where he could put his foot up. Glorfindel gently took his seat as Haldir took his own. Legolas smiled and left them for just a moment to ask a passing servant for food and drink to be bought to them.
"Here, let me get some parchment, ink and quills." Legolas stated as he did just as he said. "I wonder if you'd like to show me some of your writing, but I am quite happy to wait."
Haldir smiled. "No I am quite happy to do it now." He replied agreeably. "What would you like me to write? Something as simple as 'Hello I am Haldir?'" Receiving accepting nods to his statement he pulled the parchment to him, dipped the quill into the ink and wrote. Legolas and Glorfindel stared fascinated as he drew each line.
"It is so simple and yet affective. What one is your name?" Legolas asked. Haldir obligingly pointed out his name. Legolas took another quill and wrote Haldir's name in the common tongue beneath the English writing. "It takes a skilled eye to see the similarities but they are there." Legolas commented.
"Yes that is why I was so confused." Haldir admitted. "You kept calling my language the common tongue and yet I knew it was English. When Lady Galadriel showed me the Elven writing and the written common tongue I could not even see the similarities. But now I can see what you're saying."
"No wonder you were so confused." Glorfindel commented as he watched the two elves write and analysed the massive written differences between the two languages that were exactly the same spoken aloud. "In fact I can barely see these similarity you speak of; I only see the two completely different written languages. The language from Middle Earth is clearly embellished and great but your written language is so simple and yet beautiful in its own right." Glorfindel complimented. "So this says Haldir? Hmm, such a difference."
"Indeed. Their lettering is different, can you write out the alphabet of English." Legolas requested. Haldir obligingly obeyed and watched fascinated as Legolas and Glorfindel gushed over the simplistic language. "So similar and yet so different." Legolas murmured.
"The differences are many compared to the similarities." Glorfindel commented. "And yet I can see the attraction for it is not necessarily about appearance but about recording and jotting down. The speed, of which you wrote, Haldir, was impressive compared to how Legolas wrote. Legolas was focused on presentation whereas you were more focused on getting the whole sentence or thought down quickly. The different intentions coupled with the different styles of writing has a rather dramatic affect. Do you not agree?"
"Yes the changes are there for everyone to see. Haldir has a much swifter, looser approach to writing whereas I used a more delicate, stylised form. It is easy to see how the common tongue was written in two very unique styles. There is a chance that there are hundreds of sub written languages which sound similar to known languages. After all we know our own Elfin language has changed some after much time, whilst we speak the tongue of our ancestors our written word and accents may be unique. The same could be sound of the humans in the other world or realm, they could have originated from the same species of man from Middle Earth and yet they have taken a completely unique approach to life and language."
"Indeed. To have a language sound exactly like another there must be very strong connections of some sort. The question is, did the common tongue originate from English? Or did the English tongue evolve from the common tongue? A more intriguing question is did these two tongues originate and evolve alongside each other? If so, what was the founding tongue?"
"I do not believe that is the case." Haldir argued. "In fact it is believed that English is actually a 'stew' of several hundred different languages from Earth. You see the original 'English' country is a place called Britain, which is where I come from. Britain through the ages has been conquered by other countries and people and has also conquered other countries itself. Because of Britain's strong multi-cultural ancestry our language has become a mix-pot of hundreds of foreign words. I believe the same could be said of the common tongue. Perhaps it has come about by the same methods, as more people reveal themselves and as they tried to communicate between another they began to create a unique tongue which gradually grew to become the common tongue."
"So both languages could have come about from the need of several different cultures trying to communicate." Legolas replied. "And in a remarkable coincidence they both ended up sounding the same and yet written completely differently. To think two worlds separated by great powers are so similar is amazing, it is as if we are closer to that realm than we think. Could it be that we've been affected and yet affected that world ourselves? It is an awe-inspiring thought."
"Yes and one that needs great thought put into it. If we are so close to that realm then does that mean that these two worlds have some kind of portal connecting them? Could this be how the humans and Haldir have come through to our world? If so then we are more intrinsically linked than we believed. And yet we do not have that many travellers to our world."
"Perhaps our existences are closely linked but not close enough to collide with each other?" Legolas suggested. "We could be in a 'mirror' world, so close and yet so far from the other."
"It is a possibility." Haldir agreed.
"But a rather frightening one all the same. If we are so close to this realm of humans and they somehow find their way to our world their technology could destroy us! I have heard Haldir's stories, I have heard the tales of devices that can cause mass destruction, our swords, our bows and arrows would not touch them."
"I believe it more complicated than that." Haldir argued. "I can tell you now that before I arrived in that forest I walked through a park with a small copse of trees. Many people have walked through that copse and none have travelled to this world. In fact I thought I was the first until you mentioned others."
"Does that mean there is some kind of primal selection?" Legolas asked. "Could mortal men have been sucked from our world? Could they have lived, married and had children with the other men? Could it be their children returning to their homeland?"
"So their blood acts as a key, a key to whatever portal connects our two worlds. Could it be the portal trying to correct the mess by taking our blood back to our world and keeping the other man blood from our realm?"
"I don't think we can answer that." Haldir replied. "We can only theorise."
"Indeed." Glorfindel commented with a smile. "Still it is an interesting theory. If the worlds are sentient, or the divide between the two worlds has purpose, than that is very fascinating. Very fascinating indeed."
A knock on the door had them turning their heads as Legolas stood and opened it. A servant stood on the other side, he bowed his head to them and spoke. "Dinner will soon be served. Lord Thrandil wonders if you will be joining him this eve."
"We are." Legolas agreed. "However I request a footrest for one of my companions who currently has an injured leg."
"I will ensure their comfort this eve." The servant vowed. "I will also inform King Thrandil that you will be joining him for the evening meal."
"I had not realised so much time had passed." Glorfindel muttered as he stared at his empty goblet and the empty plate of food. They had been so involved in the writing and debate they did not even remember a servant entering and giving them their food and drink. "I must apologise to the servant who supplied us but I cannot recall their face. I shall have to enquire."
"Indeed." Haldir replied agreeably. "It was rude of us to ignore them so readily."
"You are correct, despite how interesting our debate was we should never have ignored the servants. I am disappointed with myself, mother and father raised me better than that." Glorfindel stated angrily. "The fact that the elf approach without alerting my senses is…"
"Well you were relaxed and tired, my friend." Haldir replied warmly. "Do not beat yourself up so! After all you and I were injured during our journey, I'm sure the servant was not as offended as we believe. Still it will be wise and polite to track down the servant and apologise."
"I will aid you." Legolas agreed. "Perhaps the servant you seek will be preparing our places at the main dining table. Come let us move to join my father and my people in the grand hall." Legolas led the two elves from the room, although it was slow going as Glorfindel's leg was stiff from remaining still for so long. The elder elf winced but was determined to get to the dining hall without aid. Haldir was wary of this and thus stayed behind his teacher, comrade and friend so he would be there if the elf fell. Fortunately it did not come to that as they finally reached the grand hall.
And was the Grand Hall grand! It was massive, large enough to house hundreds of elves. The noise was great as friends, families and comrades joined together and discussed a great many things. The table was built as a massive n shape. At the top in the middle of the top line was a mighty throne and there seated for all to see was the great King Thrandil. To his left sat two men who looked similar to the King and to the right was a man looking similar to Legolas. A servant came to them and escorted them to their seats. Haldir was placed next to Legolas, who sat next to his brother and Glorfindel was sat at the edge of the table.
The whole affair was brilliant but overdone. In Haldir's eye the whole affair was rather primitive and in some ways offensive. Thrandil lived like he was far superior to all, he looked down on his kin despite his air of kindness, Legolas clearly did not get along with his father and the servants were not even thanked for their service. In fact when Glorfindel and Haldir thanked their aids they received several stares, the servants were shocked at such kindness and the 'higher-society' of elves wondered why the associated with the lower class. Haldir was growing to dislike this King and the people's culture and he was more interested in returning to Lothlorien.
Glorfindel gently placed a hand on his shoulder to offer comfort. Despite their dislike of the situation it would be extremely rude on their part to leave. Besides despite the different class system Thrandil loved all his people and it showed in his voice and in his actions. Haldir eventually allowed himself to relax and spoke cordially with both the King and Legola's brother. "What do you think of Mirkwood thus far?" He was asked and Haldir had to pause and formulate a response.
"It is a beautiful city that is for sure." Glorfindel complimented. "The grand gates are so impressive and when you get beyond the gates, there are such wonders."
"I agree. I thought it was a hidden paradise as I passed the gates. The sight of nature and of all the elves just wandering in peace and harmony is a most beautiful sight." Haldir agreed. "I'm just sorry that we were injured during our journeys, I'd very much like to explore."
"I'm sure that can be arranged, but I suggest we do it in a few days when you have had a chance to heal and rest." Legolas agreed. "I myself will guide you if you wish it."
Haldir noticed the King and Legola's brothers frown at this but Haldir ignored them and smiled. "I'd very much like that. I would have very much liked to have ridden as well but with Phantom injured I will satisfy myself with a lovely walk."
"I'm sure phantom will be well enough soon. Elven horses are fast healing as well as impressive in skill and size." Legolas replied. "You need not worry about him my friend, but I will escort you to visit your horses if you wish, I myself have a white stallion with which I have not spent enough time. I would enjoy the company."
"As would I. Once Glorfindel feels well enough we shall pay them a visit, but I do not believe that will be for some days." Haldir added.
"Now youngling, I am not as weak as you think I am…" The elder elf stated.
"You may not be weak but you are injured, you hid nothing from me, I can see when you wince. Your leg is giving you more trouble than you wish to confess! I say we both rest for at least a few days before we even consider exercise in any shape or form." Haldir instructed.
"Yes sir!" Glorfindel teased but Haldir did not miss the grateful glint in the elder elf's eyes.
"You seem to have some authority, youngling." Thrandil stated warmly.
"I have been given the honourable duty of being assistant March warden. It is my tutor Malion wishes for me to take his place when the time comes for him to retire." Haldir confessed. "I must admit some trepidation, I hope I can be as affective a March warden as he himself is."
"I am sure you will do brilliantly." Legolas replied with amusement. "I have no doubts about that, your meeting me was very impressive, you followed your duties to the letter and then some. It takes much courage for someone to rise up and take control of others and it takes honour not to treat your men as inferior just because of your title. You are skilled at leading and remaining loyal to your friends and people. You truly are a worthy leader and you will be a great elf in the future."
"My brother thinks highly of you."
"I hope I can live up to those expectations." Haldir agreed.
"I'm sure you can." Thrandil replied politely. "Once evening meal is done I will have one of our servants escort us to your guest quarters." He stated. "There you can rest and recover. I hear you saved my son and his groups lives, it was you who raised the alarm, I owe you a debt."
"Please, you owe me nothing, I am just glad I was able to help in anyway." Haldir replied. "I'm just glad that no-one else was wounded."
"Yes the wound I am told is rather serious. I will have the court physician check you and Glorfindel over." Thrandil replied. "Now tell me what you think of our world."
"It is beautiful." Haldir answered. "There is such life, colour and variety. Compared to the world I come from this world is paradise and I have yet to find anything but joy from it despite my encounter with the humans."
"That is good to hear!" Thrandil replied with a smile. "I have to confess that I thought you disliked me when you refused my invitation to join me in my kingdom. I am relieved that this is not the case."
"Of course not." Haldir protested. "Forgive me if it seemed that way .I must confess that your desire to see me was overwhelming, but that was only because I was struggling to adapt to this world. The changes I have undergone since I've arrived have been many and after visiting Rivendell I needed time to think, rest and revise. Be assured that I never refused to spite you. Besides I am here now, thank you for your patience and kindness."
"No, no, please do not take my words the wrong way." The king replied warmly. "I was merely disappointed that Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn did not suggest paying my kingdom a passing visit, after all is it not closer? Still I welcome you warmly and I am not upset or angered by the time it has taken, I am merely grateful for the visit and I hope you will visit more often, you will be most welcome if you ever do knock on our great gate."
"Of course, I would love to visit when I have time beyond my duties." Haldir replied. "Thank you for extending such an invitation. I am honoured you find me worthy enough."
"All elves are worthy my friend, but none more so than you, I have heard great stories of you. I only hope I will be worthy enough to be able to not only call you friend but to be my friend." Thrandil replied.
"I already think of you with warmth, I am grateful for all the kindness you have shown me." Haldir replied. "I too hope that you will become a friend." The meal passed silently after this and thus it passed slowly, too slowly for Haldir who found himself watching the relationship between Legolas closely. The elf was clearly the youngest of his blood kin but his opinion differed strongly, when servants served them the father and eldest sons ignored them, Legolas made it a point to thank them personally. Could it be that they hated Legolas because Legolas did not care for different class?
"Well it seems once again that we have so little time." Thrandil stated interrupting Haldir's observations. "The evening meal is done and yet I have learnt so little about you. Perhaps you will join me for breakfast in the morrow? Until then you should rest. A servant will show you to your guest quarters, I hope you find them to your liking."
"Thank you King Thrandil for your hospitality, I am sure that sharing breakfast with you will be most agreeable for both myself and Haldir." Glorfindel replied. "Thank you for this most wondrous meal. I hope you will thank the cooks on our behalf for such a grand meal."
Thrandil seemed to frown but hid it behind a grand nod. "Good evening Lord Glorfindel and Lord Haldir. I will pass on your gratitude to my staff. I shall see you in the morning, honoured guests, until then, Good night."
"Good night." Glorfindel and Haldir chimed together as a servant finally approached and silently waited. Legolas stood and bid a polite farewell to his father before leading them away. There seemed to be a certain awkwardness in the air and Haldir found himself concerned, had he become this king's enemy? Had he become involved in some sort of private feud between son and father?
"Forgive my father." Legolas stated once the servant had shown them to their rooms and had been dismissed. "He means well but he can be very opinionated. He has lived long and yet his wisdom sometimes clouds his judgement. I will allow you two to rest and recuperate. The rope there by your beds calls for aid from the servants, if you need something merely tug and a servant will respond as soon as possible."
"Thank you." Glorfindel replied politely as Legolas left Glorfindel's room. The elf strolled over to the large seat, similar to a settee only far more exuberant, with dark navy velvet covers and gold linings. "There is no need for you to go yet, my friend." Glorfindel stated indicating for Haldir to sit. The young elf did so and watched the elder curiously. "What did you think of King Thrandil and his sons?"
"In all honesty, my first impression is not brilliant." Haldir confessed. "He confuses me. He is smart, wise and kindly and yet…he treats the 'servants' as the low of the low. It as if they do not exist to him and when we spoke to the servants he did not like it. How can such a kind but powerful king treat his kin in such a way?"
"You answered that question yourself, my child." Glorfindel replied. "Power. Some elves think he has become too human, to hungry for control, having people answer to him is pleasing to him. Lady Galadriel, Lord Celeborn and Lord Elrond are considered the 'greater' elves by elf kind simply because they see all elves as equals, slaves are not slaves they are friends, allies and family. In fact the word 'servant' is a deceptive word, they are more aids, supporters and protectors." Glorfindel explained. "In my personal opinion what King Thrandil is doing is wrong. He has become to obsessed with ownership and power, he has begun to 'own' his kin and it saddens his Lothlorien and Rivendell relatives but we can do nothing without threatening our friendship with Mirkwood. We would never endanger our bond with Mirkwood, besides all elves here are relatively happy we have not heard a word of complaint and we've made it clear that our doors are open to all elves."
"What if…what if they're too afraid to take you up on the offer? King Thrandil does not look like an elf that would threaten his kin but what if he has convinced them that accepting the offer is wrong? That accepting the offer is like betraying their kin?"
"It is a possibility, but we can neither prove or disprove it." Glorfindel stated. "But Thrandil would also not betray his kin, the elves are safe within these walls despite the different class systems. Thrandil is an honourable elf, he just sometimes does things a little differently. Legolas on the other hand rarely see this, like you he saw the class system, saw elves being subjugated to the Kin's whim and he hated it, hated that his blood was causing the 'suffering' of others. I suppose he has a much more personal view on things, after all he has grown and spoken with many of these 'servant's, still to judge Thrandil because he does things differently makes us no better than the humans."
"Yes of course, it was not my intention to judge. I was merely making observations."
"Do not worry my friend, I understand completely, the class system is obvious and somewhat saddening but each society of elves does things differently. The Lothlorien elves live equally in great trees homes, the Rivendell elves have a much 'kinder' class system and Mirkwood has a more strict class system. We are all different and yet we are all the same, for I can assure you Thrandil would never punish his elves like a human would punish his slaves. Never."
"I did not even think he would. I'm just saddened that there is such a thing going on. I wonder why equality is such a hard thing to achieve. I know since we are social animals we prefer groups of people and picking out a leader, but why does that leader have to be 'submitted' to? Back where I come from the 'little people' the ones of a lower class have no say and it was often the rich and spoilt that gained power. I hate seeing it and I hate seeing people suffer in silence."
"Do you think these elves suffer?"
"I do not know, I think that some may be tired of being ignored and treated like they don't exist, but they're not truly suffering more annoyed than anything." Haldir replied. "Still being ignored is a form of suffering is it not? If your own leader, the one who is supposed to care for you won't acknowledge you then what does that mean? Who do you go for to ask for help, if your leader won't even answer your pleas?"
"You are of course right my child. Thrandil represents not only the high class but all classes of Mirkwood elves and yet he seems to ignore the lower class. It is unfair but Rivendell and Lothlorien have no place to say anything, unless this class system threatens us it can only be dealt with by Mirkwood itself. It requires nothing more than enough lower class elves speaking out to their leader, to Rivendell or to us and actions would be taken. But until that day we must remain happy in the knowledge that the lower class are not suffering and are not unhappy."
"Of course as long as their happy then it's fine. Thrandil is a kind elf despite his ignorance of the lower class, even though he ignores them I very much doubt he'd mistreat them." Haldir agreed. "How is your leg?" He asked changing the subject.
Glorfindel smiled. "I will be better after some proper rest." The elder elf confessed and Haldir could see how tired he was. "I will probably go to bed early now we are safe inside Thrandil's kingdom. I need it."
"I think we both need it. Once this medic has been I might slip off to bed. But I'll meet you here in the morning, if that's alright?"
"Of course. We can both travel to the grand hall for breakfast. You will of course have to give me some extra time to dress since my leg wound will make dressing difficult." Glorfindel replied. "But I'm sure the medic or a servant will aid me if I ask nicely enough." The elf stated with a grin. "I wonder where this medic is? I'm sure either Legolas or Thrandil stated that a medic would be sent up and soon, yet we have been up her for some time and yet there is no sign of a medic."
"Would you like me to ask around?" Haldir asked. "I'm sure there is a passing elf nearby."
"No it is fine. I trust their word and they said a medic will come, perhaps the elf is not available? With so many elves in this kingdom it is not far-fetched to think that they are busy or travelling quite a distance to even see us. All I need is to have my wound cleaned, checked over and wrapped again. But yours may need a proper medical check over, after all that arrow went deep."
"I remember but funny thing is that I hardly feel it. Or rather I've been so busy I've not noticed it but now I'm aware of it is beginning to hurt again. I hope I can sleep with the pain."
"I'm sure that the medic will give you something to soothe the pain and to help you sleep. No doubt they'll give me some as well to ensure I rest and properly heal." Glorfindel replied warmly. A knock on the door had them turning to face it. "Ah, speak of the devil." The elf teased. "Enter."
The elf that entered caught Haldir's attention instantly. The elf looked powerful, bright glowing hair and shimmering blue orbs for eyes but what caught Haldir's attention was the air of wisdom and age that surrounded him. The elf was obviously older than he appeared. "Greetings friends, I am Andon the royal healer. I've been sent to check on your wounds. I've been told that you, young Haldir have the most serious wound, a deep arrow wound. May I take a look?" He asked gently.
"Of course." Haldir replied agreeably shifting so his arm faced the medic. The elf gripped his arm and despite the power hidden in the grasp the skin was gently to ease the pain. With such gentle, delicate fingers the elf removed the bandage and winced at the wound. "I guess it looks pretty bad." Haldir commented.
"Yes, fortunately it does not appear to be infected, but it seems to be healing slowly. Let me clean this wound and re-bandage it, but if this slow healing continues I may need to undo the stitches and thoroughly wash the wound, inside and out to ensure it is clean. It will be painful which is why I'm not doing it now, I'm hoping I won't have to do it." The elf, Andon stated as he did just as he stated. With a gentle damp cloth he cleaned the wound and then slowly bandaged the wound. "Remove your shirt." Haldir obeyed and frowned as his arm was secured tightly to his chest, a quick check revealed he could barely move his arm an inch. "I've done this so you do not injure your arm further with any movement. I will continue to do this until I deem the arm healed enough to use." Andon stated firmly at Haldir's frown as he pulled Haldir's baggy shirt over his head. "Now for you." Andon stated, Glorfindel's face had Haldir laughing loudly earning a glare from said elf.
"I assure you my leg is fine."
"I assure you I'm a competent medic, now pull those trousers off." It was almost comical how Andon had Glorfindel pinned to the chair, hands gripped struggling hips and tugged the trousers off. Glorfindel's expression was of something akin to amazement, shock and a little fear. The medic pinned Glorfindel in place by a firm hand on his hip and hummed and murmured at the wound. "It is not so deep to cause great injury but it is deep enough to cause great pain. I will clean and bandage this and provide some herbs to soothe the pain and relax you both. You are not to do any strenuous activity. King Thrandil indicated you may like to ride, whilst I don't think this is wise it is better than walking, thus as long as you don't do anything strenuous you may ride."
"Thank you, but we figured it will be a good few days at least before we ride. My horse, Phantom is far too injured to take my weight." Haldir replied. "And I'm sure, Glorfindel that you wish to rest."
"Yes I'll probably just relax and rest for a bit." Glorfindel agreed. "Andon? Would you ask King Thrandil if it is alright for us to explore his vast libraries, I do enjoy sitting and reading when I have the time."
"I will ask." Andon agreed. "Now you two must rest, I will come and check on you tomorrow evening and ensure both wounds are well cleaned and protected." He promised. "Now if you excuse me, I have a young elf going through her first pregnancy, I promised to pay her a visit often and it has been some time before I could visit her."
"Please don't feel you have to stay." Glorfindel replied. "We are well, please go to the young elf and congratulate her on our behalf."
As the elf left Haldir sighed and stood. "I suppose I too should head to my rooms and rest. I shall see you in the morning." Haldir stated.
"Goodnight Haldir, remember I am only across the hall if you need me. I will hear your calls." The elf promised.
"Goodnight Glorfindel." Haldir replied fondly before excusing himself from the room. As he stepped across the hallway one of the patrolling guards spotted him and his 'missing' arm. He kindly offered aid which Haldir was nervous to accept but the elf insisted and soon helped him from his clothes into more looser ones. "Thank you…"
"Kenda." The elf stated. "I am Kenda, I'm glad to help. Good evening, my lord." The elf replied before disappearing from the room. Haldir stared at the door slightly confused and stunned before shrugging and climbing into the large bed, the soft feel of dark velvet soon aid him in seeking sleep. Darkness clouded his vision and he happily closed his eyes and let it overwhelm him.