Not One Of You

by FlamingRebirth

Once called a 'freak' but now what he is, is common place. A Haldircentric fic.

8. Chaos, Pure Chaos

Not One Of You

By FlamingRenirth

Disclaimer: I do not own Lord of the Rings and do not make any profit writing or posting this fanfiction.

"Speaking Elfish."

*Galadriel speaking mentally to Haldir.*

Warnings for violence, mentions of sexual preferences and my version of humour… :D

Chapter Eight: Chaos, Pure Chaos

Haldir was at the stables when the summons arrived, Thranduil requested his presence personally and Haldir was not going to refuse the King's request, he had no desire to make a powerful enemy. Phantom was clearly reluctant to let him go but a firm hand and a promise to return had the stallion trotting back to the small herd of horses he had befriended at the stable. Haldir expected many things as he walked from the stables to the palace but what he did not expect was a clearly distressed Royal elf. Thranduil sought Haldir's gaze with a desperate gaze of his own and pushed a scroll towards Haldir. "Did you know?" He demanded. "Did you encourage this?"

Haldir frowned confused and cautiously lifted the scroll and read its contents only to gasp and re-read them again. "This cannot be right." Haldir replied. "He never said anything about this. I am sure he would have at least talked to me or Glorfindel about it first." Haldir assured the King.

"Why? Why would he do this?" Thranduil demanded. "Why would he turn his back on me and his family?"

Haldir sighed. "It is not my place to say your majesty."

"Say it. Please tell me why." Thranduil begged and Haldir realised he wasn't speaking to Thranduil the King; he was speaking to Thranduil the Father.

Haldir carefully took a seat and met the King's gaze. "I fear Legolas thinks you've turned his back on him. When I spoke to him some days ago he spoke of the death of his mother and of how you and your sons blamed him for taking her away. He believes you hate him and do not want him." He admitted to the old King, he glanced back at the scroll and sighed. "I do not know why he has chosen to do this now; perhaps he feels that he needs to spend time away from a family he believes does not want him. Whatever the reason for Legolas decision I can promise you that neither I nor Glorfindel knew of Legolas plans."

"Does he hate me?" Thranduil whispered. "Does he see me as an enemy?"

"He sees you as a King, emotionless and distant; I fear he has yet to see you as a Father." Haldir answered. "Perhaps he feels it is better if he is away from you, he feels unwanted and would rather be somewhere he is wanted." Haldir suggested.

"That is foolish." Haldir jumped and turned to see Thranduil's three sons behind him having just entered the room. The one who spoke was almost a clone of Thranduil, tall, blonde with a stern, almost angry gaze. "This is why we've been called, has Legolas chosen to leave us? Please tell me you are not going to permit such a thing; I will not have my little brother wandering alone out there."

"He would not be alone." Haldir assured. "And from what little I've learned Legolas believes you'd prefer him gone."

"We haven't been very pleasant to him." The son who spoke was more feminine in appearance and looked a lot more like Legolas. "I have said it many times before, our grief for Mother's passing has distanced us from our youngest. We must fix this mess before he leaves, I will not have my younger brother hating us and I will not allow him to continue to think that I despise him."

Haldir blinked. "But if you care for him so much why have you distanced yourselves from him?"

"What do you say to someone who seems a complete stranger?" The last brother asked softly. "By the time we realised our mistakes Legolas was too different and too distant towards us. We approached every now and then but the trust was lost. We do not know how to fix this."

Haldir met each other their gazes and believed he saw true repent and desire in their eyes. "I think you just need to spend time with him beyond what you already do. Perhaps train with him or hunt with him. I know for a fact that Legola's prides himself in archery and hand to hand combat. Perhaps you could tell him of his mother too; beyond the whole she died giving birth to you thing. Tell him about her beauty, her likes and dislikes because unlike you he has nothing to remember her by. He's been alone since he's been born, hated for something he had no control over and if you want to reach him you need to soothe the hatred he now feels for himself."

"Once he knows we forgive him, he'll gradually forgive himself." One of the three muttered. "Thank you Haldir, we'll seek Legolas out now before it is much too late."

Thranduil smiled. "Thank you, young one."

Haldir shrugged. "I'm just recalling what I did to learn about my own brothers. For quite some time I did not believe they were truly my brothers, but then I received a note from my mother confirming that I was indeed an elf and they my brothers. I shared the note with them and then I shared the stories of my mother, because like Legolas, both Rumil and Orophin had never known her."

"And now?" Thranduil asked.

"I still struggle with it all sometimes but I feel more connected to them and to this world now. Before it was all a dream, an elaborate hoax but now it feels like home." Haldir replied. "I have a long way to go before my brothers and I are completely alright but at least I am past the denial stage."

Thranduil nodded with a thoughtful gaze. "You have done right by me and my family this day and now I will do right by you. I will send a message to Lord Elrond telling him to expect you and your brothers. It is high time you and your family had quality time. I will also send a message to your Lady and Lord to inform them of my plans. They will not deny me, neither will you. You will spend as much time as you feel is necessary to acquaint yourself with your kin."

Haldir gaped. "There is no need…"

Thranduil raised a hand. "There is always need, my friend. You have helped my family become whole and to find happiness, it is only right I return the favour. Now go, child and re-join your tutor, I must seek out my son and finally be the Father I was meant to be."

Haldir eagerly left the King's room and travelled through the hallways towards Glorfindel's chambers, half way there he heard voices and he paused to look at the disturbance. Legolas was cornered by his three brothers and was looking at them with disbelief as they told him what they told Haldir. The softness of the elder brother's gazes assured Haldir that it would be alright to leave the family alone and so he turned and continued to his tutor's chambers.

Glorfindel wasn't in his chambers when Haldir arrived and the elf grew concerned, Glorfindel was well on his way to healing but he was not yet meant to put weight on his leg. What was worse was if Andon found Glorfindel missing the healer would have a fit and Haldir would be the first elf the healer would seek out to find out Glorfindel's location. With an annoyed sigh Haldir turned and left his tutor's chambers and began his search for his wayward companion.

"My Lord." A servant called whilst keeping her head low with respect. "Lord Haldir." Haldir turned and gave a tight smile towards the elf as she approached. She bowed low the moment she was near him before continuing to speak. "I have been asked by Lord Glorfindel to inform you of his Lord's location. His Lordship has been escorted to the stables by his mates, Lord Kel'Anna and Im'Ladrai; he wishes for you to join him and promises that he is being careful with his leg."

Haldir chuckled. "Thank you my Lady." The elf was clearly unaccustomed to thanks and tried to shrug it off but Haldir merely smiled and left the lady to her work. Whilst he walked Haldir wondered how he had missed Glorfindel, he did not believe he had taken that long in Thranduil's office, meaning Glorfindel should have only just left his chambers and if Haldir walked fast he may catch up with his tutor and his mates.

As he wandered down the path to the stables he heard a small sound, he paused unsure before he heard it again. A glance around revealed no one nearby. The sound came again and this time Haldir thought he knew the cause, it was the sobbing of a child. Cautiously he approached the location of the source and his ears twitched as the sound got just a little louder. Bending down he glanced through some bushes and quietly gasped at the sight. A little girl barely older than eight was curled up beneath a rock hanging sobbing into her knees, her dress that was once so fine was nothing more than tatters and her skin was grazed from a fall. Glancing up he noticed traces of blood on the rock face and immediately realised she had fallen from the field above, afraid and hurt she had curled up and cried. Haldir frowned as he listened, he could hear no one calling out a name or no other distressed sound, was she alone or had she been abandoned or pushed?

The girl whimpered and HaHaldHaldir focused on the present, he needed to calm the child and return her to her parents. He slowly approached and made a small sound to let her know he was there. She glanced up and whimpered fearfully. "Hush, child, I mean you no harm. Why are you out here all alone?" He asked softly. She stifled a sob and shook her head refusing to answer. "Were you pushed, little one? Did someone hurt you?" She sobbed some more but still remained stubbornly silent. Sighing inaudibly Haldir rested himself against a tree and recalled a lullaby his mother often sang to him when he was upset. "Swing low, sweet chariot.Comin' for to carry me home, swing low, sweet chariot,comin' for to carry me home." The girl glanced up surprised. "I looked over Jordan and what did I see,comin' for to carry me home.A band of angels comin' after me,comin' for to carry me home." The girl's sobs slowly died as she listened with fascination. "Swing low, sweet chariot, comin' for to carry me home.Swing low, sweet chariot,comin' for to carry me home."

Haldir paused for a small moment as the girl cautiously moved forward. She stared at him warily before crawling up to him and stopping a small distance away before waiting for him to continue. "My mother used to sing this to me when I was upset. I never really understood the words but I loved her voice." He told the girl. "Even now the song soothes me; I hope it helps you too." The girl slowly nodded and Haldir smiled. "Let's see if I remember the rest, huh?" He asked and she nodded again. "If you get to heaven before I do,comin' for to carry me home.Tell all my friends I'm comin' there too,comin' for to carry me home.Swing low, sweet chariot,comin' for to carry me home. Swing low, sweet chariot,comin' for to carry me home."

"Does…" The girl paused before taking a breath and beginning again. "Does the song repeat?"

"Yes." Haldir replied. "It's about Angels and loved ones who've passed on. The song is about how we are watched over by Angels and our lost family and when our time comes they welcome us back into their arms."

"Will my family wait for me?" The girl asked softly with a hopeful gaze in her eyes.

Haldir nodded. "Your family are watching over you even now, little one. They cannot be here for you to hug and to hold but they watch you and help guide you even when you can't see or hear them. As long as you hold them in your heart they are never truly gone, child. And when you're grown up and you're time comes they will be there to embrace you."

"Why can't I go now?" She asked quietly.

Haldir sighed softly. "Your family would want you to live child, they'd want you to make friends, have a life, they'd never want you to suffer, my child." He stated quietly. "They'd want you to be happy and to grow up to be a beautiful elf maiden."

"But I don't feel happy."

"You won't, not at first, little one. But in time it will get a little better. You'd never truly forget but you will begin to live again." He assured. "Why are you down here, little one?"

"I fell." The little girl answered. "I don't make friends, I don't know what to say or do and they don't know what to do with me. I want to play but I am not like them, they're happy and I'm alone and upset. They don't want to know me."

Haldir frowned. "Does no-one want to play?" The girl shook her head. "What about your guardian?"

"I'm alone. I've been staying with a healer but she barely has time for me." The girl replied. Haldir took a moment to admire her intelligence, for a young child she was well spoken and quite intelligent. Her soft blue eyes showed an eagerness to learn but it was clouded over with grief and despair. Haldir was disappointed by the knowledge that this little girl had been rejected, she was beautiful and so smart, and she should be nurtured and well cared for. "No-one wants me." The girl whispered softly her head bowed, her blonde hair slipped down to hide her face and Haldir frown deepened.

"I want you, child." Haldir answered softly. "I want you to grow up and become the intelligent elf maiden I can already see in those eyes of yours. I want you to grow up strong and I want you to have your own family." Haldir made a decision and slowly rose to his feet. "My name is Haldir, what is yours?"

"Aisha."

"Well Aisha. I would like for you to accompany me, I would enjoy the company of an intelligent elf." He told her cheekily. "I am rather popular at the moment so you can use me to make friends if you'd like." The girl observed him for a moment before nodding and standing. Haldir glanced down and noticed her bare feet. "I am heading towards the stable, would it be alright if I carry you, I would not want your feet to get hurt on our way." She nodded again with a trusting expression and Haldir smiled but was slightly concerned, had he been a human she would have been taken without no chance of escape, he'd have to speak to Glorfindel about this and see if the children could be taught to be more cautious of strangers. Carefully he lifted her to rest at his hip and continued to walk towards the stables, the girls fingers clung to his shirt as she looked around from her vantage point.

"I was not aware you had a child." Glorfindel greeted cheekily as he noticed Haldir's approach. The elder elf smiled warmly at the little girl from his perch on a fence, Kel'Anna's hands gripped Glorfindel's hips firmly in case the elf would fall. "Hello, little one."

The girl hid her face in Haldir's shoulder as she waved a small hand. Haldir smiled fondly before speaking. "I found her crying her eyes out beneath an overhang not far from here. She says she's alone and I simply could not leave her there." Glorfindel frowned with concern and gave the girl a once over with his eyes, the concern grew to anguish when he noted her tattered dress and grazed skin. "She hurt herself in the fall." Haldir elaborated. "Or so I assume, she has not told me what happened." The girl shook her head against his shoulder and Haldir knew she would not speak of it for a long time yet.

"Well, little lady, you don't have to worry no more, we'll look after you." Glorfindel promised. "Shouldn't you take her to a healer?"

Haldir nodded. "I will but I think she needs a little time to calm down before I take her back to the palace." Her fingers tightening in his clothing confirmed Haldir's thoughts; this girl didn't want to go back to the palace just yet. "I thought I'd show her the horses and have a walk around."

Glorfindel nodded slightly in agreement as he took in the pair with a soft gaze. Haldir blushed at the attention but quickly turned to the girl. "Would you like to meet my stallion, Phantom?" He asked softly. The little girl glanced up wide eyed with excitement making Haldir chuckled. It was officially universal, girls loved horses! With a sharp whistle he called for the tri-coloured stallion currently tormenting the mares, the male froze and in seconds was cantering towards the fence to reunite with his rider. His muzzle poked straight over Glorfindel' shoulder and eagerly reached for his rider. Intelligent dark eyes noticed the girl and he nudged her shoulder. The girl paused and Haldir laughed. "Go on, he wants you to pet him." Phantom made a happy sound as her small hand rubbed his nose and he nibbled at her dress.

The elder elf's remained quietly as they watched the little girl and the horse. Above her head Haldir and Glorfindel shared looks as they silently communicated, the two had learned to share emotions and knowledge through expression and so Glorfindel could easily read Haldir's concern and Haldir could see Glorfindel's agreement to aid Haldir and Aisha.

Finally the girl relaxed, her fingers loosening their tight hold and Haldir deemed now a good time to speak. "Do you like him?"

"He's pretty." At these words Phantom made a happy sound and shook his great head in joy making the girl giggle.

"You've just made his ego that much larger." Haldir commented as the horse neighed loudly towards the mares who simply flicked their tails at him in annoyance. "I'll bring you to visit him again later, if you'd like." The girl nodded eagerly. "We're going to return to the palace now and I'll take you to the healers." The fright on the girls face made Haldir wonder what she feared. "Do not worry, Aisha, I will not leave you."

"We won't." Glorfindel confirmed when the girl's eyes met his and Haldir hid a small smirk at the soft look upon Glorfindel's face.

The girl sough Haldir's gaze and he nodded encouragingly. "Glorfindel needs to see the healer's himself and I'm sure he'd love for you to keep him company."

"And you do to, Haldir; Andon will not give us a clean bill of health until he has ensured we are completely healed." Glorfindel countered.

"You're hurt?" The little girl asked curiously.

Haldir nodded. "My arm was hurt a little while back but it is mostly healed, but the healer doesn't want me using it until he says so." He informed the girl with a smile as she stared cautiously at the arm he lifted to show her. "But as you can see its fine but until Andon says otherwise I can't use it." The girl nodded as she rolled her eyes and Haldir chuckled. "Healers…" He murmured conspiratorially. "…they drive everyone mad." Aisha giggled and nodded in agreement.

"Don't let Andon hear you say that, you'd never hear the end of it." Glorfindel replied fondly. "Now beautiful, let's have a look at your legs, huh?" Aisha shyly nodded as Glorfindel approached with his two mates; Kel'Anna was unobtrusively staying close to Glorfindel in case Glorfindel lost his footing because of his weak leg. Haldir watched amused and pleased when Glorfindel skimmed gentle fingers over the child's skin, Aisha was clearly not distressed and quite content to accept the elder elf's touch. Finally after a few moments Glorfindel stepped back but he did so reluctantly. "There is nothing to worry about little one, they are just flesh wounds and they'll heal fast. Let's go see the healers to make sure, I don't want to see such a beautiful young lady in pain."

Im'Ladrai slowly approached the child and Haldir with a warm smile. "Little one, would you mind if I carried you? Haldir still has much healing to do and I would like to acquaint myself with such a wonderful and intelligent young lady." Aisha sought out Haldir's gaze and Haldir nodded encouragingly. Haldir's opinion must be important to her because the moment he deemed it safe she happily allowed Im'Ladrai to take her. Almost instantly the archer was wandering away as he talked to the girl, Aisha became animated as the elf managed to find a topic she liked, her hands waved around exaggerating what she was saying and a huge smile was on her face.

"You are lucky you found her." Glorfindel commented.

"I thought bullying is looked down upon here." Haldir asked softly.

Glorfindel nodded. "It is but prejudice still remains in some places. Some elves don't like half-breeds, half humans and half elves. They often ignore or reject half-breeds but at the same time respect them more than the humans."

Haldir frowned. "But I am one of those half-breeds and I have yet to face that prejudice."

Glorfindel sighed. "You have never been left alone for too long and the prejudice elves are far and few between. Biased elves are rare; most elves have the hearts and minds open and so never truly judge something that is different. Unfortunately not all elves are as enlightened or open-minded, children even less so. If Aisha did indeed get hurt by another it is most likely to have been the other children or a biased adult elf. Since children are rare and neither myself or my mates noticed them I can only assume the girl was hiding from the judgemental gaze of her parent or guardian."

"Her family is dead, she is an orphan." Haldir explained. "I didn't get a lot out of her but apparently the other children don't like playing with her because she is different and the healer she's staying with has no time for her."

Glorfindel frowned. "This situation needs to be rectified immediately. I will not have a child fade because of this." He hissed. "If no one will take her in, I will."

Kel'Anna nodded. "Yes and we'll be a proper family. Im'Ladrai already adores her." The warrior stated. "I will find out about her situation and see if I can't pull any strings to have her guardianship transferred to us. We shall take her to Lothlorien where she will grow up away from prejudice."

Haldir was astounded by how open-minded and accepting these elves were. There were no suspicions and no hate, they were all thinking about the well-fare of the girl and nothing else. Haldir didn't quite know what to say, he had known logically that they'd never turn a child away when it sought help but he had never thought to witness it. He was still thinking in human terms, expecting evil actions under the guise of kindness but it never came. Situations like this served as a reminder that this was not his Earth and that these elves had a capacity to love that human compassion could never match it.

"Are you okay?" Glorfindel asked clearly noticing Haldir's quiet shock.

Haldir shook his head. "I'm fine; I'm just a little overwhelmed."

Glorfindel gave him a sympathetic look. "Still stuck back 'there'?" He asked referring to Haldir's birth world.

Haldir nodded. "I know logically that I'm here and that this real but sometimes I am shocked by how much compassion is shown. Had this been back where I have come from it would be a more brutal scene. Aisha could be dead through hate crimes, guardians could be fighting to control her, she could be kidnapped for the slave or sex trade and so much more. I am really, really happy and pleased that she's here but I am just astounded by how different and better this place is."

Glorfindel frowned. "Sex trade?"

Haldir shook his head. "Don't ask, please just don't ask. Many of the humans sicken me and whilst no all are evil just the thought that there are people out there who'd…" Haldir shuddered. "…let's just say I don't have much love for the human race, I love my mother and I know there are good humans but I just can't accept how barbaric and backwards humans can be." The horror on both Kel'Anna's and Glorfndel's face told Haldir they were imagining what the humans were capable of, Haldir wanted to speak up to stop any thoughts but he couldn't because the truth was that some humans would do anything and everything for pleasure and power.

"You will never have to witness something like that again." Glorfindel responded after some time. "If the elves even heard of such cruelty you can be assured we'd do everything in our power to prevent it." He assured.

Conversation didn't continue after this, Kel'Anna and Glorfindel were thinking deeply about Haldir's home-world and Haldir had no idea what to say. They ended back in the palace quicker than the walk down to the stables but that was not unusual as return journey's always felt faster. There were a few raised brows at Im'Ladrai carrying a child but none said a word nor tried to interfere as they travelled to the healers.

The exasperated look on Andon's face made Haldir want to hide as the healer strolled forward and demandingly said, "What did you do now?"

"Nothing!" Haldir protested. "I found this little lady in the bushes beneath an overhang; she was injured and distressed, could you please look her over."

Andon's gaze softened as he looked at the shy little girl in Im'Ladrai's arms. "Of course and I'll give you and Glorfindel a check-up too." He promised. "Set her on the bed, please." The nervous gaze on the girl's face had them all stepping a little closer to offer quiet support as Andon slowly checked her over. "Well you have quite a few scrapes and bruises. What happened, little one?"

"N…nothing."

They all could have called her out on her lie but they all knew that pushing her would make her distressed and they'd lose what little trust they'd begun to earn. Andon raised a brow at her but allowed her the lie. "They're merely flesh wounds little one and will heal soon but I want you to have a bath and to rest, okay?"

"Okay."

"I'll call a nurse to…"

"No!" The girl protested. "I want…" She went quiet quickly and seemed to try and hide herself.

They all shared a distraught look above the distressed child before Glorfindel went forward. "How about I take you to bathe after I've been checked over? Would that be okay?" She sought out Haldir who nodded, she hesitated briefly before holding out her arms, despite his leg and the healer's stern stare Glorfindel lifted her up and held her close to him. "Check out my leg so I can spend time with this little lady."

Andon may not have approved of Glorfindel carrying more weight on his recently healed leg but the healer could not deny Glorfindel's request in such a situation. Nodding Andon had Glorfindel seat himself with the girl on his hip so the healer could check the wounded leg. A few moments later Glorfindel was given a clean bill of health and the Lothlorien elf fixed his clothes and left with Kel'Anna and Im'Ladrai.

Haldir smiled fondly at the sight before he too sat and offered his arm to the healer. The healer made pleased sounds as he noticed the arm was healed, there was a scar but it was surprisingly small and un-noticeable considering how deep the wound originally was. Andon smiled. "You are both fully healed and are ready to travel. I want you and Glorfindel to be cautious about straining your limbs for the time being but I can see no reason for stopping you returning home. I hope I don't have to see you in a professional capacity any time soon."

Haldir smile widened. "Sorry to sound a little ungrateful but I am glad, that sling was driving me mad and I'd like to return home. However I would like to return and get to know you a bit more."

Andon smile equalled his. "I look forward to it, little one." Andon sighed. "I will go and inform King Thranduil of the news and let him know that you and your companions will soon be leaving."

Haldir shook his head. "I'd wait a bit; Thranduil and his sons are having a family meeting."

Andon's eyes widened. "Do you mean to say that Thranduil has finally noticed he has been losing his son?"

Haldir nodded. "I shouldn't say, I know more than I should. I suppose I can say that King Thranduil has opened his eyes and he and his sons seem honest in their want to reach Legolas but I do not know if they are too late or even if Legolas will accept it."

"I hope it will work out. I have watched for too long as they pushed Legolas away, I should have done or said something but what could I have honestly said?" Andon questioned.

Haldir nodded in agreement. "It was something Thranduil had to find out on his own and I believe he has had that rude awakening. The only thing we can do is wait and hope for the best." He jumped off the bed and stood. "I think I'd like to go see my horse and if it is allowed I'd like to ride him, would this be okay?"

"As long as you don't strain your arm I do not see why not, such bonds between horse and rider should be nurtured and re-enforced." Andon replied with approval. "Have fun."

Haldir intended to do exactly that, riding Phantom was always fun and he hoped the stables had a small jumping arena or something similar. He practically ran back to the stables and he got there in time as well because Phantom was causing trouble, a poor elf was preparing to clean Phantom's hooves and the animal had such a mischievous expression that Haldir knew it could not end well. "Stop." He ordered. Phantom snorted and lowered his ears displeased that his rider had come and stopped his fun. The elf, a young male stopped too looking startled. Haldir approached and patted Phantom's neck. "Had you continued you would have been hurt." He told the elf. "Phantom should not be handled by just one elf unless it is myself, he is a troublemaker."

The elf happily handed over the tools and Haldir took over knowing Phantom would not dare cause trouble for his rider. The act of cleaning Phantom was a relaxing one and within moments Haldir was more calm than he had been yet. Phantom shone in the sun, his fur looked like silk and his eyes glinted with contentment when Haldir finally put down his tools and pat the horse's back. "You look prefect." Haldir complimented as Phantom leaned into Haldir asking for more petting. "I wish to ride." Haldir did not miss how Phantom perked his ears in excitement. "Let's go to the stables to collect your tack."

"You need to ensure there is a small gap between bridle and fur, we don't want the bridle too tight…" Haldir noted one of the head riders lecturing some new riders who had obviously been fortunate enough to bond with their own horses. He nodded respectfully when they glanced his way as he passed them to reach Phantom's mostly unused stable. When the head rider noted him using his own tack the elf used Haldir as an example and began describing each step Haldir took to ready his horse. Haldir obligingly slowed down to make it obvious about what he was doing to aid the old elf in his descriptions. When the younger elves went off to prepare their own horses the elder elf approached. "Forgive me for putting you on the spot there. My name is Makus."

"I am Haldir and please don't apologise I was glad to help." Haldir replied clasping the elf's hand in a friendly handshake before gripping Phantom's reigns and turning the horse around. "I don't know how long I will be sticking around but if you need any more help I am happy to oblige. I will not be riding far."

"Thank you." Makus replied warmly before noting the elves were mostly ready. "Well looks like I've got my hands full." The elf commented with amusement. "By the way, you have a fine horse there, I have been helping the stable hands to take care of him and he has a lot of spirit. Then again Rivendell horses do have a unique way about them. Even Swiftfoot has an attitude, although he is somewhat calmer than Phantom. What I wouldn't do to bond with a Rivendell horse, but I could never part with my beloved Lissan."

Haldir chuckled at the fond look on Makus's face. "I am keeping you from your students. Go." He instructed before leading his horse from the stable and quickly mounting. Phantom shifted beneath him as the horse got used to having the weight of a rider again. Once Phantom was settled Haldir began a slow walk around the field and watched a few of the small horse herds in nearby fields. Phantom snorted at the males and called to the females until Haldir made Phantom trot away. The young stallion was soon cantering around the field and performed the tasks Haldir asked for. Haldir remembered a few dressage manoeuvres and slowly trained Phantom to use them, Phantom did not enjoy the piaffe but he enjoyed the Levade and some of the more faster and demanding manoeuvres. Haldir hadn't noticed he had gained an audience until he turned to see Makus and his students watching him with expressions akin to awe.

"Those manoeuvre, what are they?" Makus asked.

"They are the Piaffe, the Levade, Leg Yield and shoulder in. They are used by the riders where I come from, the art is called dressage and it is about how much control a rider has over his or her horse. Some of the manoeuvres are not a horse's natural gait and so horses have to be trained to understand the rider's commands." Haldir explained.

"Can you show us again?"

Haldir nodded. He went through the moves slowly and adjusted Phantom as the horse struggled to understand what he wanted. Soon enough the horse was doing the piaffe once more but he didn't like it, it was much too slow for him. He added a Levade to reward the stallion, the male enjoyed that for no other reason than it allowed him to see the mares a little better. The leg yield was also another move the male didn't like all that much but he didn't mind the shoulder in. Haldir patted the animal on the neck rewarding Phantom's patience before trotting to the fence where his audience watched. "They're only a few manoeuvres. I don't know any more, I didn't train as a dressage rider, I much preferred show-jumping."

"Show jumping?"

Haldir nodded. "The humans like to compete. Dressage was a competition about who had better control and partnerships with their horses, show jumping was about a rider and horse's ability to avoid and jump obstacles and eventing was about a horse and rider's endurance." Seeing he had their complete attention Haldir smiled. "Dressage is done in an arena, normally a large sandy field, the rider is expected to lead the horse in a pattern around the field whilst performing different gaits and manoeuvres. They are timed and watched closely as they perform, the judges are looking for perfect control and timing, any hesitation or failure to complete a move in the time provided means that the rider and horse lose points. The pair with the highest score and the more perfect performance are the winners."

"So dressage is about showing how strong a partnership is between horse and rider?" One female elf asked. "The better the bond between rider and horse the more points a competitor gets?"

Haldir nodded. "Dressage is about trust between horse and rider, the horse must obey the rider at all times and the rider must trust the horse to get the move right. I have watched a few dressage competitions and I think their beautiful but I would never have the patience to perform all the moves. I much prefer cantering and jumping, which brings me to my favourite sport, show jumping." The glee on Haldir's face had his audience smiling. "Show jumping can be performed anywhere, in a large building or out in the open. The area is covered with different sized fences and obstacles, the rider and horse must jump the fences in a particular order, to make the challenge harder the order of jumps means that a horse and rider must weave between fences to get to the right one, if the rider jumps the wrong fence they have failed. The jumps themselves can also be quite difficult, there are three jumps I can think of that are some of the hardest. The first is a downhill jump, the horse and rider have to jump and slide down a large sloping hill to the bottom, at the base is a fence, if the horse has lost its footing the jump can be practically impossible. Another jump is the pool jump, the humans dig a pool and it is just the size of a large horses leap, the rider must have the horse lunge over this pool and avoid touching the water. The third most difficult jumps is the three fences positioned close together, this type of fence can catch a rider off guard as the horse and rider have to leap them quite rapidly or be forced to stop short."

"It's an enjoyable sport?"

"I love it, it's about control and ability. The riders have to be aware of the fences and they have to be in full control of their horses. It is exciting." Haldir exclaimed with a smile. "Show jumping is similar to eventing, the rider has to jump obstacles but unlike show jumping eventing is held in more 'wild' landscapes, with woods, ditches and rivers. The rider has to travel over the landscape, weaving between woods and over rivers and ditches whilst jumping different obstacles. The fences themselves are practically one after the other but they are positioned in such a way that the rider has to get the horse to them without falling or losing their way. Eventing also has 'choice' jumps, the people who set the jumps up sometimes offer easy jumps and hard jumps, if the rider takes the hard jump he must avoid any natural obstacle before taking the hard jump, the easy jump is…well easy, there is no natural obstacle and the fence tends to be a little smaller."

"These sports sound interesting. Particularly the eventing one." Makus stated out loud. "We could set such obstacles up in the fields, it would be something fun for the younger riders to do and the show jumping idea is also easily set up. We have something similar already but we could turn a spare field into a permanent jumping training ground. I will speak to King Thranduil about this as soon as I am able."

"There is another type of training you can do." Haldir suggested. "It can only be done with well trained horses and experienced horse riders. It is called free-style, it is basically where the horse does what the rider commands without the rider being on the horse's back. It is the training humans find most impressive because horses often don't choose to obey. Getting a horse to do a dressage manoeuvre when the rider isn't on its back is magical to a human. It could be good for you to include it in your lessons simply to help aid in the bond between horse and rider."

Makus nodded in agreement. "That sounds like a fine idea."

Once his audience was gone Haldir let Phantom fly, the stallions realising he was free to gallop lunged forward and within seconds was speeding around the fenced area. They ran around the field so many times that Haldir began to grow dizzy and pulled the stallion to a stop with a big grin and a heavy pat to the horse's side. "You did good my friend." Haldir stated fondly. "We will be heading home to Lothlorien soon my friend, so I shall allow you to rest until then." Phantom tilted his ears back to listen to his rider attentively and Haldir smiled. "Don't get into too much trouble, Phantom; I don't want to have to excuse your behaviour when we leave." The innocent look Phantom shot him was not believable, the stallion liked causing trouble way too much to behave for even five minutes, still Haldir could hope that the horse didn't cause too much trouble.

Dismounting he secured Phantom in his stable and began the long but enjoyable task of removing the horse's tack and brushing down the animal's fur. As he worked Haldir began noticing a few more differences between Ishtar and Phantom. After a workout Ishtar would be panting and her fur would be in disarray and a little damp from being underneath her tack but Phantom's fur was bone dry and it was clear the horse still had energy to burn off. Haldir had no idea what would happen if his beloved Arabian mare was to meet Phantom but he did know Phantom would run circles around her. Haldir wondered if Phantom was the big handsome brute and if she was the petite, brainy beauty, at that thought he prayed they never met each other.

With Phantom relatively relaxed and settled Haldir left the stables and made his way back to Mirkwood palace. The palace guards lowered their head with respect as he passed and Haldir returned the greeting with a warm smile before venturing into the huge building. He dodged a small group of young elves, all his age but without the responsibilities he had but from what Glorfindel had told him twenty years old was the age of a child to most elves, a working twenty-year old elf was rare and it seemed only Lothlorien allowed their younglings to 'work'. Haldir would have to ask Glorfindel how that worked because it was clear these young elves had duties judging by their uniforms, but perhaps Glorfindel meant that the youngling elves were apprentices? If so then Haldir was an apprentice himself and he would not be considered and official Marchwarden until his hundredth birthday. But that also raised another question, if he and his brothers were half-breeds, did they actually live to see their hundredth birthdays?

"You look to be in deep thought." Haldir turned and let out a startled gasp as he saw Legolas jog up to him. The elf gave him a smile that promised revenge. "I know you were involved with my family's plan." He told Haldir. "I do not know whether to hit you or hug you."

Haldir shrugged. "If it helps I didn't mean to get involved. He called me into his office and asked me if I knew. I honestly had no clue what he was talking about until he showed me your request to live in Lothlorien." Haldir explained. "I told him I had no clue and he begged me to help him sort out his mistakes, I told him what little I knew and left, I did not like being put into such a situation, I do not like betraying the people I call friends, even if they were your family."

Legolas looked startled. "You call me friend?"

Haldir nodded. "Yes, is that a problem?"

"No, I like it." Legolas replied. "So, what were your thinking about?"

"I was just wondering what to expect. Glorfindel told me that an elf doesn't officially come of age until their a hundred years old."

"That's true, I am one hundred and twenty summers and I was not allowed to hunt or scout alone until my hundredth birthday. It drove me mad but it is the rules of our people, an elf is not an adult until they are one hundred."

"That raises a lot of questions for me however." Haldir stated. "My brothers and I, we're all half-breeds, our mother was human. I have no idea if I'd even see my eightieth birthday, never mind my hundredth. Then there is this responsibility to Lothlorien, I am to be Marchwarden, I have already been named heir to the title and I don't know if I'd be around to take it."

Legolas frowned. "Do not speak like this. I do not like the idea of your death. Besides that you are wrong. I do not remember all the teachings but I remember this, if the half-breed looks elven they are more elf than human and vice versa. You are more elven which means you have inherited all the elven abilities that come with it, including long life. Most elven half-breeds fade as we do and can live as long as a pureblood does. In fact the only way to tell an elven half-breed from a pureblood is their parents. You will more than likely live as long as the elders have lived, you need not fear about this, but if it sets your mind at ease I will ask my father to take a look at you, he will be able to tell if your elven blood is strong or not. Considering that my father is not overly fond of humans I think the answer is clear already, you are elven and my father respects you as he respects his kin. You will live a long time yet."

Haldir nodded somewhat soothed by Legolas words. "But my mother will die long before I can even consider my own fate. She is pure human, when I am sixty she'll be eighty and nearing the end of her life and I won't be there, I won't be able to hold her hand or say my goodbyes." Legola's hand found his shoulder and squeezed comfortingly. "I'm sorry I do not mean to be as depressing as I am."

Legolas shook his head. "Do not be ridiculous, my friend, you are still new to this world and the loss of your home and your mother is still fresh in your mind. I am amazed at how strong you have been. Over a year you have been here and you have yet to grieve, I think the reality of all this has yet to hit you but be assured that I will be here if you need support and perhaps by working with my father and Lord Elrond we can find a way to at least contact your mother."

"You think we can?" Haldir asked hopefully.

"I think if anyone can achieve it, it would be the elders." Legolas replied. "I can't guarantee a thing but I know that they would try if it really meant something, and it does. I will speak to my father this evening, I am sure he would not refuse the attempt, perhaps he'd even start the process and contact Lord Elrond, Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel on your behalf."

"Have you made peace with your family?" Haldir asked cautiously.

Legolas shrugged. "I do not know what to say, they tell me things I want to believe and yet I cannot. The hurt is too fresh and too deep. A part of me thinks they'll just turn me away again with their ignorance and cruelty but another part of me hopes that this is it, that I can become a part of their family."

"It's your family." Haldir replied. "It always has been."

"Then why do I feel like an outsider?" Legolas countered. "I will try but it is difficult when I can barely stand to be near any of them."

"I feel the same, but not just with Orophin and Rumil. I feel like an outcast looking in and watching and sometimes I don't feel like I am one of you. There is just too much difference, I can barely adapt because I've been raised differently to you and our kin and now I feel like an orphan being giving a new home but with no idea how to behave." Haldir explained. "I thought I'd got over most of it, Orophin and Rumil have been nothing but kind and the time we spent discussing Mother was good and I felt like one of them. But now that feeling has faded, they are too different from me. They don't see the point of lazing around or reading, they like training and fighting but I could spend hours lazing in the sun if I could. I am so different from them as they are from me and to be honest the deepest bonds I have are with Phantom, Glorfindel and you, if not for my horse, tutor and you I would most likely broken down within days of being trapped here."

"I am sorry to hear that." Legolas replied. "But I am glad I am able to help in some way. Have you considered spending time with you brothers? Just you and them?"

Haldir nodded. "Your father insisted on it. He said he'd contact Lord Elrond to inform the elf that me and my brothers will be visiting Lord Elrond's lands. However the way he worded it meant that he'd pretty much demand that Lord Elrond allow me and my brother's to spend time upon Lord Elrond's land."

Legolas chuckled. "Father was always demanding." He agreed. "But I don't see why Lord Elrond would refuse such a reasonable request. Perhaps Father is right? Perhaps I should spend more time with my brothers to mend this rift between us, just like you will when you spend quality time with your brothers."

"Since you are my elder you should lead by example." Haldir replied teasingly.

Legolas grinned. "That I should." He replied. "I am permitted to escort you and your tutor to the borders of Mirkwood forest when you leave but King Thranduil wishes to speak to Lord Glorfindel first."

"I suppose I won't get a straight answer were I to ask why." Haldir commented.

Legolas shrugged. "I don't know myself. My Father seems quite determined for some reason. He has the air of someone who schemes a lot and I am sure he was eyeing his subjects when we were gathered in his chambers for a family meeting."

Haldir raised an eyebrow but Legolas did not elaborate. With a shrug Haldir focused on their path and allowed a smile to form on his face as his sharp ears picked up the sound of a child laughing. "Sounds like Glorfindel is having fun."

"Is that a child?" Legolas asked.

Haldir nodded when Legolas looked to him for confirmation. "I found her when I was walking down to the stables, she'd fallen and hurt herself, she wouldn't tell us how she'd got there and she was incredibly shy but she's taken to Glorfindel and I. When Glorfindel left the healer's chambers he said he was going to give her a bath, she should be more relaxed now."

"Was no one watching her?"

Haldir shook his head. "We don't know what happened but she seems to fear the healer's chambers and she said she can't make friends with other elves. We also know she's an orphan, her family is dead. Glorfindel may have found out more but until we talk I do not know and it would be silly to talk about something like that in front of a girl that is so obviously afraid."

"You are right. Perhaps I can speak to Father on her behalf?" Legolas offered. "I can see about her getting a placement with a caring guardian."

Haldir nodded as they entered Glorfindel's chambers and paused in the doorway. Aisha was giggling excitedly as Im'Ladrai told her a story, his arms waved to exaggerate his tale whilst Kel'Anna and Glorfindel looked on with amusement. The girl turned when she noted them out of the corner of her eyes, she saw Legolas and hid in Im'Ladrai's arms. Haldir sighed inaudibly and cautiously stepped forward. "Hello Aisha." He greeted, she gave him a shy little wave but her eyes were on Legolas.

Legolas stepped forward and went to his knees. "Hello, little one." He greeted, she blushed and hid her face until only her left eye showed. "Do you mind if I come in and speak to Glorfindel and Haldir?" She looked surprised at his question but then shook her head. Legolas smiled. "Thank you for your kindness, little one."

Haldir smiled at how naturally Legolas handled the girl, his very aura was calming and she was clearly not afraid, just nervous. She followed Legolas with her eyes as the Prince strolled to join Haldir on one of the long chairs and she finally caught Haldir's eyes, something in his gaze must have reassured her because in a few moments she turned away from Legolas and looked up to Im'Ladrai to beg the elf to continue his story. Slowly Im'Ladrai's voice filled the air as he regaled her with elven fairy tales and the five of them relaxed.

"Are you well?" Glorfindel asked when he was sure his voice would not upset the child. "You did not return here."

Haldir shook his head. "I believed it best if I didn't and I was eager to spend more time with Phantom. I rode for a bit and helped out the stable master who was training new riders."

"You were allowed to ride?" Glorfindel asked.

Haldir nodded. "Yeah, Andon kept telling me to be cautious but he couldn't refuse me because I am fully healed. He told me that there's no reason we can't make the journey back to Lothlorien and that he will tell King Thranduil that we are healed and ready to leave."

Glorfindel nodded. "Then we must prepare to leave and soon, our Lord and Lady must know about your dream and we have to reunite you with your clan so you can receive your sacred weapon and finally be a true member of your clan. We have been gone much longer than I intended. This visit was meant to be short but I suppose it just gave them extra time to be prepared for our return. Remember, youngling, you must be suitably shocked and awed with the surprise, I was not meant to tell you."

Haldir chuckled. "I will act surprised, I assure you."

"Good. Although Lady Galadriel might have a few things to say to me." Glorfindel tapped his head with a wry grin.

Haldir chuckled at the reminder, Lady Galadriel saw all whether they wanted her to see or not. Haldir still viewed her abilities as a violation to some extent, he did not mind her abilities, she had showed only kindness and used her abilities wisely but she read all minds without permission and it was too close to mind-rape for Haldir to be completely comfortable. Still he did not hate her and he hoped his thoughts never upset her, she showed no signs of any distress when she read his mind so perhaps she accepted and understood his views, maybe other elves and humans saw it the same as him but said nothing out of fear and politeness?

"Yes she will not approve of you spoiling the surprise." Legolas said unaware of Haldir's slowly darkening thoughts, Haldir was thankful for the Prince's light tone and relaxed. "Still she will understand, Haldir may have reacted the wrong way if he misunderstood."

Glorfindel nodded. "Yes, ceremonial weapons are quite important and I wanted to forewarn Haldir. Still I don't think anyone would have taken offence at his ignorance, he was not taught about our clans and standings. I will address this with Lady Galadriel, I will not leave you ignorant my friend. Besides when the time comes for you to find lovers and mates you will need to understand how it works."

Haldir nodded. "I think there is quite a bit of difference to my idea of relationships and yours. Before now I believed in one man and one women relationships, this idea of multiple males and a female is not necessarily strange but rare. These types of relationships are usually reserved for…sexual experimentation." Haldir made sure to lower his voice a little at the last two words, he didn't want the child overhearing their talk.

Glorfindel smiled reassuringly. "Our practices evolved over time. I told you last time about how our women seemed to lessen each year? Well overtime we began to have more feuds over the females, too many men fighting for rights to have the woman. Fortunately for us we are quite open to all options including men and the men fighting over the women started to join into groups to protect and claim their chosen lady. Today we operate under the same practice but we seek not to protect a woman but to love each other. Over the first…" Glorfindel counted under his breath for a moment. "I can't say for sure but I'll go with four hundred years, it sounds right." Glorfindel commented. "Right, anyway, a male elf will often gather three or four elf males to them over their first four hundred years of life, for example you have the foursome, Thranduil, Elrond, Celeborn and Gil-Galad. Their group was not a permanent group but a small group that indulged in sexual play amongst trusted friends. Celeborn courted Lady Galadriel and left the group. Lord Elrond's mate joined the group. Thranduil's mate may have joined the group had it not disbanded after Gil-Galad's death."

"So male elves create a sexual group to satisfy their needs?" Haldir asked.

Glorfindel nodded. "These groups are the satisfaction groups. Male elves seeking release but unable or unwilling to lay with just anyone. But most male elves form bonding groups. The bonding group is for life. Take for example me, Kel'Anna and Im'Ladrai, we are mated or bonded, but we may add another two or even three elves to our group over time and if fortune favours us we may also have an elf woman join us. A complete bonding or marriage group can have as many as six male elves and two elf females. Unfortunately since we elves are picky and females are rare most bonding groups only consist of two or three males and that is it."

"It also means that when Aisha grows older she will be greatly desired. Many males will flock to woo her and to persuade her to join their bonding groups."

Haldir frowned. "So…" He re-ran everything he'd just learned. "There's the sexual group or the friend-with-benefits group and the marriage, or family group." He stated, when Glorfindel nodded Haldir asked the question fluttering around at the front of his mind. "What other difference is there? I mean coupling can start out as just sex and end up in relationships."

Glorfindel nodded again. "Yes sometimes sexual groups turn into bonding groups. I am sure had Gil-Galad lived Thranduil, Elrond and their two elf females would have tied the knot and create a family unit. Unfortunately Gil-Galad's death and the following deaths of their wives have parted the two elves and reuniting them will be a difficult task, we do not want to reopen old wounds."

"So will I be expected to form such groups?" Haldir asked confused.

Glorfindel laughed. "No, no, it is not forced and you are not betrothed to anyone. Over time you may simply have a companion or friend who will turn to something more, it may be as you say, 'friends-with-benefits' but you will eventually find your mates. It will happen in time. Many young elves believe they only want one mate but so far the only 'pair' is Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel, the rest of us simply feel drawn to many others."

"That's a relief, I am not ready for that kind of commitment just yet." Haldir commented.

To his surprise Glorfindel nodded seriously. "Of course, little one, you are still new to this place and such ideas are too much for you right now. I simply tell you this to keep you prepared for the future, but in all honesty when the time comes you'll know what you'll need to do. Most of the knowledge is already in your mind and your instincts but the knowledge helps to understand what is happening."

Haldir would have replied but there was a timid knock at the door, a male elf entered cautiously and gave a low bow to them before turning to Glorfindel. "His majesty, the King wishes to speak to you, Lord Glorfindel."

Raising a brow Glorfindel nodded. "Then take me to him, it is best not to keep the King waiting."

Aisha watched clearly distressed as her guardian left the room, she sought out Haldir and when she saw he remained she relaxed a little in Im'Ladrai's arms. It was odd to see the child had bonded with them so quickly, was she that outcast that any kindness was like food to the starved? Haldir could only wonder about her past and what had made her so timid and desperate.

"I wonder what the King wants." Kel'Anna stated allowed clearly unhappy. It was quite a sight to see such a powerful warrior sulking and Haldir would have laughed had he not been so afraid of Kel'Anna's strength and temper, the elf was quite frightening.

"I do not know." Haldir replied. "I can only presume that Andon's spoken to his majesty and told the King that we are ready to leave for Lothlorien." He stated as an afterthought. "I can think of nothing else that would bring the King's attention to us."

"The child." Legolas pointed out. "My Father will want to know why she was alone and unprotected. Since Glorfindel has taken primary guardianship of the girl my Father is most likely going to question Glorfindel about her to find out what he has learned."

Haldir nodded thoughtfully. "You are correct, that is another likely motive for the King to use to speak to Glorfindel. I just hope the meeting goes well."

Legolas shrugged. "You're not in trouble, I am sure you aren't. Perhaps he merely wants to thank Glorfindel for looking after her? After all had you not found her she may be in more trouble than she was, she could have ventured into the forest and come across the spiders of gotten near the stable full of rowdy stallions, the animals rarely harm an elf, they are to intelligent to do so but sometimes in the heat of the moment, such as mating they can lose that awareness and behave more primitive." Legolas stated thoughtfully. "She is very lucky she had you and Glorfindel around, I shudder to think about what may have occurred."

Haldir shuddered himself at the idea of giant spiders, he had only seen one from a distance and he had no desire to see one close up. "You and me both." Haldir finally stated as he watched the oblivious girl talking excitedly to the archer. Im'Ladrai showed no signs of strain or exhaustion despite having been sat there for at least an hour if not more and Haldir was growing more and more respectful towards the elf, the obvious care and devotion the elf had in his eyes made it hard for Haldir to feel uncomfortable around him.

"So…" Legolas began. "…you didn't know much about bonding?"

Haldir shrugged. "Not until Glorfindel told me. But I had no idea about the traditions around it. The way he explained it to me last time was that homosexuality was common because of the lack of female elves, he explained about the ceremonial weapons and their purposes. I had no idea that traditionally male elves would form a family group. I suppose there is more to learn but I am a little overwhelmed, it seems so complicated to me and yet it also makes sense."

"What do you find hard to understand?" Legolas asked kindly.

Haldir shook his head. "It is not that I don't understand; it is simply that I am struggling to accept that things are done differently here. Seeing more than one lover back where I come from is often viewed as a betrayal, an affair it's called. The fact that sexual exploration and large family groups are permitted here is something I find difficult to get my head around. I always believed I'd find one lover and settle down and now Glorfindel is telling me I'll find more and eventually form a family group. It is difficult to comprehend."

Legolas nodded. "I understand, the humans in this world are the same, they form simple pairs, one male and one female. The few humans who know about our sexual explorations find us a strange race and many think we sin by doing so, to stop any feuds we elves hid our sexualities and keep it amongst ourselves, very few elves take human mates these days because of the humans' religious and moral standings."

"Glorfindel was right to tell you." Kel'Anna added. "In time you would have found your life difficult because you are raised as human your lusts for multiple partnerships would have broken your heart. You must realise that such desires are natural, we elves are very sensual beings who desire companionship, every elf who comes of age forms a sexual group, eventually this group will disband or evolve into a bonding group. Do not be afraid of such feelings for an elf, even if they are bonded, simply speak to them and their mates, many bonded family groups are willing to indulge in a rare sexual experience with someone outside their group if it is mutually desired by all. In time your desires and instincts will make sense and your mind will no longer be divided. Right now you are thinking from a human view point but in time your elven side will emerge and you will see that there is no crime or sin being committed, there is only the mutual desire and consent of grown elves seeking love and companionship."

Haldir nodded slowly. "I don't think it is wrong, Kel'Anna, I simply find it hard to understand but in time I'll adapt and learn. To be honest I've always been open minded, I believe love is love no matter who's involved, so accepting this is not a huge leap, it is just hard to believe it's part of a culture, the humans hide it away with shame or judge those who 'come out'."

Legolas placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "It is not so here. Be assured that no one will judge any of us, it is our way. And trust me when I say it is unlikely you'll ever go back to that place, you need not fear those people anymore. They can't touch you here and if they tried you'd have many people stand between you and them. No harm or hatred will reach you, my friend."

Haldir smiled at Legolas's words. "I know." He simply said but the words were from the bottom of his heart, he trusted all the elves around him, how could he not when he had seen how kind and selfless they were?

"I'm going to settle this lady into bed, she is tired after her long day." Im'Ladrai finally piped up bringing their attention to him and the yawning girl in his arms. "I believe we should all adjourn to rest, tomorrow we will be leaving for Lothlorien."

Haldir nodded. "You're right, as healed as I am I do want to rest well before travelling, I do not want to be tired lest another ambush occur."

Kel'Anna sighed. "That ambush was a rare one, normally humans and orcs alike won't target more than a few elves and considering how close to Mirkwood we are they would be foolish to even try and attack us. Still caution is always a good thing to have so rest well, little one."

"I must return to my chambers soon." Legolas commented. "My father wishes for me to share supper with him and my brothers but I'd like to share breakfast with you before you leave."

Haldir nodded. "We shall be in the great hall for breakfast tomorrow morning, it is only polite to share our farewells with the King and his people before we leave." Haldir pretended to be unaware of Kel'Anna's nod of approval and pride but inside he felt warm and it pleased him to know he was making the right decisions and that they were being noticed.

They all shared their 'good evenings' and spoke a little more about their plans for the next day before they split. Haldir returned to his chambers, he had planned to sleep but just as he went to undress a timid knock echoed through the room. "Enter." He called and watched as an elf entered the room, the male carried in a tray that held a steaming cup and a small bowl of soup.

"Forgive my intrusion my Lord but the King requested that you and your companions be given an evening meal. He is aware you are leaving in the morrow and has ordered that you and your companions eat and rest well for your journey." The elf explained before placing the tray on the table besides the bed. "Please do not worry about the tray when you're finished, the servant who will attend you in the morning will take it back to the kitchens to be cleaned. Please just eat and rest, my Lord."

"You are doing me a great kindness." Haldir said gratefully. "I will be sure to mention you and your colleague's kindness when I speak to the King in the morrow." The servant's cheeks pinked as he bowed. "Have a good evening and rest well." The servant's blush deepened and he bowed again before leaving the room.

The soup was wonderful, it was clearly poultry, the taste of bird was familiar to Haldir's tongue but the exquisite mix of herbs and the warmth the soup provided him was unique, he felt sated and relaxed. The tea was also lovely and relaxing, he could feel himself drifting off as he settled against the pillows and so reluctantly put down his cup to undress and curl under the sheets. He meant to finish the last few mouthfuls of the gorgeous concoction but instead he succumbed to sleep.

When he awoke it was to an elf gathering the tray to take down to the kitchens, sunlight filtered into the room and Haldir realised he felt more aware and refreshed than he had ever been. The servant smiled warmly. "It is nice to see you well rested, sir, I have ran you a hot bath and prepared all the cleaning clothes and oils. The King will see you in the great hall for breakfast in an hour. Enjoy your morning, my lord."

Enjoying it was an understatement, one thing Haldir loved was long hot baths and he had an hour to indulge. He was almost reluctant to climb out but the one downside to baths was that they cooled considerably after a while and he couldn't remain in the water for as long as he'd like because his skin would get all wrinkly. Still the time he spent in the soothingly hot water was the best by far and he was considerably more relaxed than he was when he first awoke.

When he left his chambers he quickly bumped into Glorfindel, Kel'Anna, Im'Ladrai and Aisha, the three men were clearly very calm and well-rested and the little girl still slept in Kel'Anna's arms. Glorfindel's smile was surprisingly wide when he greeted Haldir and he excitedly began to speak before Haldir could wish him a good morning. "Guess what? Thranduil has given me guardianship of Aisha and has permitted Kel'Anna and Im'Ladrai to leave Mirkwood and live with me in Lothlorien! He's given me several scrolls to deliver to Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn!"

Haldir smiled. "That is good to hear, you'll be wonderful guardians to her." He replied pleased.

Glorfindel couldn't wipe the grin from his face. "And that gorgeous soup and tea last night was brilliant, did you enjoy it?"

Haldir nodded. "Very. I wonder what it is?"

Kel'Anna chuckled. "It is a special brew of herbs, there are two types one to increase awareness and one to help an elf get good rest. King Thranduil enjoys a morning brew of tea to increase awareness, especially on days where he'd be dealing with the council."

"He must drink a lot then." Glorfindel retorted with a smile.

Kel'Anna let a fond smile form on his face even as he bent his head so his lips hovered just over Glorfindel's. "Only when he's dealing with infuriating Lothlorien elves." The warrior teased, Glorfindel chuckled not the least bit offended and leaned up to peck at his mate's lips. The love and devotion on all three mate's faces made Haldir smile warmly before they parted and walked towards the great hall.

"Haldir!" Legolas called with delight as he arrived to enter the hall with them. "It is good to see you looking well, in fact your look quite content this morning, I bet this has something to do with the soup and tea!"

"It was very enjoyable." Haldir agreed warmly.

Legolas smiled. "I know, it's a lovely brew, one of the best and our chief chef is truly proud about it, apparently no one can make it as good as him."

Haldir laughed. "Well he is right to be proud, it is an exquisite brew."

"I will pass that onto the chef." The King stated with amusement as they all took their seats around him. Haldir nodded gratefully and Glorfindel gave a low bow before taking his seat. "I admit I am sad to see you leave but duty sometimes holds more importance than pleasure, I know this better than any and I shall not stop you leaving. I am pleased that my two finest warriors are accompanying you, however, I would not allow you to journey undefended especially with such a young lady in tow. Eat well this morning and I hope you travel safe."

"As do we all, your majesty." Glorfindel answered. "Be assured that I would never knowingly endanger Aisha and that we will do all we can to protect her on our way home." He assured the King.

"I know you will." Thranduil replied softly. "But I am still sad to see you go but be assured that if and when you return to my Kingdom there will be changes. No more children like Aisha will be turned away and all will be monitored and hopefully in time my family will be whole once more." The longing look he shot Legolas had the elf blushing and turning his head away from his family.

Haldir smiled encouragingly towards Legolas and clasped the Prince's shoulder in support. "I am sure it is already on its way to being whole, your highness and I look forward to returning to see your Kingdom once again. I will miss its beauty when I go but as you have already said, duty is sometimes more important than pleasure."

"Would you mind if I ask what duty it is?" Thranduil asked.

"I am training to take over from Malion as Marchwarden." Haldir answered. "I have spent far more time away from my duties than I intended."

Thranduil nodded. "You will be spending time with your family."

"Of course, your highness." Haldir confirmed knowing that Thranduil had written a scroll demanding that Haldir and his brothers spend time with each other on Elrond's land where they'd be safe and away from their duties in Lothlorien.

The first meal was actually a rather relaxing meal in its own right, Legolas and his family seemed to be getting along and Glorfindel's family was growing and Haldir was content to sit between them with a content smile as his friends found peace. At one point Haldir wonder if his future family would be like this, where everyone was full of joy and laughter, if so he wouldn't care if they were males or not, just that they were his family and that they were happy.

Eventually they were forced to part although it was obviously a reluctant parting as Legolas stepped away from his Father and led them to the stables. Surprisingly Phantom and Swiftfoot were already saddled and ready to go, they were nibbling at their bits as they impatiently pawed the ground waiting for their riders. Beside the Rivendell horses stood three others, they were just as elegant as Phantom and Swiftfoot but unlike the Rivendell horses they were more relaxed and content to be handled by others that were not their riders. Legolas, Kel'Anna and Im'Ladrai mounted and Aisha was placed into Im'Ladrai's lap where she eagerly stared at the horse's head and the horses around her.

Glorfindel and Haldir on the other hand took a little longer, both wanted to make sure their horses were properly saddled since someone other than them had tacked the horses. A few quick adjustments and Haldir was giving Glorfindel a boost up onto the saddle before he mounted Phantom. The last thing the Lothlorien elves did was check the supplies for what seemed the hundredth time to the annoyance of the Mirkwood companions. Finally content Haldir urged Phantom forward and led his companions back up from the stable and to the front of the palace. The King was there with his sons and any high ranking elf that was available, he gave them a royal send off before they turned to travel deep into the forest and back home.

Phantom and Swiftfoot immediately surged forward into a canter that the Mirkwood elves seemed to struggle to keep up with before they settled into a light trot. Haldir glanced back to see Aisha looking excited, Im'Ladrai was watching the girl closely insuring nothing happened and Kel'Anna and Legolas seemed to just be enjoying the ride. Glorfindel trotted beside him looking very content, more content than earlier and Haldir felt the same, there was just something about being back in the saddle and going home.

From the corner of their eyes they noted the movements of elves running through the forest monitoring their exit, no doubt these were the escort King Thranduil promised. Haldir could only hope the elves didn't get into any trouble when they finally left them and returned to Mirkwood.

"…and that's Phantom and Swiftfoot." Haldir's ears twitched in synch with his horse's as he heard his horse's name, a glance back showed Im'Ladrai talking about the horses to Aisha as she excitedly asked different questions in her eagerness to learn all she could. "Phantom and Swiftfoot are a unique breed of horse, bred by Lord Elrond himself. They are highly prized for their intelligence, war sense and agility. I bet you'll see what the horses are capable of but if nothing happens I'll get them to put on a show specially for you."

Glorfindel and Haldir shared a look and both came to agreement, they'd put on a show for the girl the moment they were near the edge of the wood, she'd see how fast and agile these horses were. Sensing their rider's plans both horses rumbled excitedly and tensed against the reins eager to gallop.

The path out of Mirkwood forest was almost impossible to follow, thankfully Glorfindel and Legolas seemed to know where they needed to go and Phantom never stumbled or faltered. After a few hours Aisha began to complain of hunger and the five adults immediately found a small clearing and dismounted, Aisha was a priority and her stomach was right, it was lunch. They divided the rations and ensured that Aisha got a larger share, Haldir noted he also got a slightly larger share but decided not to comment. Aisha seemed to calm after she'd eaten and the adults were pleased enough to sit around relaxing for longer than they should have. Their escorts seemed nervous but since the elves didn't urge them onwards they knew there was no immediate danger.

Finally the trees seemed to thin and Glorfindel and Haldir let their horses fly, Phantom soared through the air, his hooves barely making a sound on the soft earth as he cantered around the trees. They heard the little girl letting out excited comments and laughter as they rode and it urged the two elves onwards. The horses burst from the trees and galloped a short distance before being turned and slowed to a canter as the two Lothlorien elves returned to their companions.

Legolas smiled warmly at them all as he pulled his grey stallion to a stop. "I must return now but I wish you a safe journey. I hope to see you soon my friends."

"I am sure we will meet again, sooner than you think." Haldir assured. "Have a safe journey back, my friend."

Legolas gave a short bow to everyone before watching as the group turned and cantered into the fields. The group stopped and turned; waving back to Legolas before the Prince vanished back into the forest. Glorfindel smiled. "I hope Legolas has good fortune with his family."

"So do I." Haldir agreed.

"If we canter from her we can make our way to the hills and to high ground." Kel'Anna commented. "It will be safer up there than down here."

Haldir nodded. "You are right. It will give us some advantage over any enemies as we ride to Lothlorien."

Glorfindel shrugged. "The journey is not far, if we push the horses we could make it in a day or two."

Haldir shook his head. "We can't push the horses, we have to think about Aisha. She is not used to days of riding, we'd have to stop to let her rest and recuperate." He glanced around and noted a highest point of the hill. "That point there seems a good couple of miles away." He stated as the elves narrowed their sharp eyes at where he pointed. "The small group of trees would provide shelter and fuel for a campfire and we could rest there for the evening. If we can make it there by this evening the rest of the journey could be made in a day or so without straining the animals or Aisha."

Glrofindel gave Haldir a smile full of pride. "Good plan, it looks to be a very good strategic spot as well as a good resting spot."

"I am in agreement with Haldir." Im'Ladrai stated. "We can't travel as fast as we wish but we do not need to panic, if we follow Haldir's plan it will give us a good protected spot and resting spot so we can relax and prepare ourselves for the rest of the journey."

Haldir nodded. "We could also get Aisha used to the saddle and horse up there. We were remiss not to have her practice before we left."

Glorfindel sighed. "In all my excitement I forgot to ensure everyone was ready."

Haldir shook his head. "It is fine, she's clearly enjoying herself but she'll be sore tomorrow. If we spend this evening training her in riding she won't be as upset or hurt when we finally reach Lothlorien."

"If she trains on Swiftfoot or Phantom we can be assured she's safe, neither horse would dare harm a child." Glorfindel added. Phantom snorted as if offended by the very idea and Swiftfoot rumbled angrily beneath his rider, a gentle pat reassured both horses that the comment was not meant harshly.

Haldir glanced around. "I think I'm going to take the rear, I'd like to keep myself between any threat and Aisha." He commented.

Glorfindel smiled fondly. "I'll take the front today and Kel'Anna can watch the perimeter as we ride."

Phantom was clearly not pleased to be slowed right down but he relaxed as Haldir brought him back up to a trot behind Im'Ladrai. Haldir expected a little bit more rebellion but Phantom seemed to know the seriousness of the situation and immediately focused on his duty as a sentry. Both horse and rider searched the area constantly, Phantom matched his movements with Haldir's, when Haldir looked right he looked left but Phantom had the added benefit of a wide point of view meaning the horse could almost look behind itself.

They reached the top of the hill just as the sun was beginning to go down. The landscape slowly changed from bright colours to soft yellows and oranges as the sun's rays weakened, it was beautiful but also frightening because darkness would soon follow and being out in the wilderness in such a small group was unwise. Still the adults kept calm and kept the child happy as they dismounted. Glorfindel commandeered the child and had her hold Swiftfoot's reins and learn how to handle a horse whilst Im'Ladrai and Haldir set up camp, Kel'Anna had scaled a tree despite his heavy build and was acting as lookout. Soon they had a fire going and the only sounds filling the air was the crackling of flames and childish laughter.

Eventually the child grew hungry and tired meaning she was cranky, the elves merely shrugged off her snappish attitude and fed her before settling her close by the fire under Glorfindel's protective arms. Haldir agreed to take third watch and settled to sleep until early morning. He watched the little girl sleeping briefly and smiled as he noticed she was smiling and content in her new guardian's arms before he drifted to sleep.

He awoke much too soon, it felt as if he'd just fallen to sleep but the darkness of the sky and the small dying fire told him he'd been out for a good couple of hours. He rose without complaint as Im'Ladrai settled by the fire and got it going again. He nodded towards Im'Ladrai assuring the Mirkwood elf that he'd watch over them for the rest of the night before scaling the tallest tree above the group and watched the horizon.

Movement from Mirkwood forest had him tensing an hour or so later. A dark form was travelling in their direction and seemed to be watching their campsite. If it saw Haldir it showed no sign of acknowledging him and it was gradually growing closer. He pressed his hands together and let out a call, the Lothlorien's version of an alarm call, it sounded like an owl hooting but all Lothlorien elves were trained to respond to it. He heard shifting beneath him and saw Glorfindel press Aisha into a sleeping Kel'Anna's arms before the elder joined Haldir in the trees. "Look to the forest." Haldir whispered. The small gasp told Haldir that Glorfindel had seen what he had. "We must ride and soon, I do not want to wait and find out what it is that is hunting us." He told the elder.

"I will awake the others. Watch the form and tell us if it acts differently or gets too close." Glorfindel asked.

Haldir nodded. "You know I will. Tread carefully, Glorfindel, let us hope it has no idea we've spotted it."

Aisha of course did not understand the emergency but she remained quiet clearly sensing something was wrong as they bundled her into Kel'Anna's arms as the elf readied his horse. Haldir watched the horizon warily and noted a second form following the first. He feared it was a group of Orcs or a feral pack of Wargs, he prayed it was Orcs as he'd heard tales about the Warg's speed and ferociousness. He noted that Glorfindel had corralled everyone into the trees and arranged the campsite to make it look like the elves were still sleeping. Haldir remained in place and watched the horizon, the shadows emerged to check the campsite so he used his hands he signalled for the three elves to wait, when he saw the shadows vanish he told them to move. The elves watched him closely relying on his eyes to keep them out of sight as they slowly vanished behind the hill. Once his friends were out of sight Haldir disappeared into the trees and lowered himself into the shadows where Phantom waited. Once he was in the saddle he urged Phantom on but instead of following his friend's path he went right down the back of the hill to remain out of sight, he had Phantom make multiple trails with his hooves before galloping into the forest to reunite with the group.

"Is it safe?" Im'Ladrai demanded.

Haldir glanced behind him warily. "I think so. I had Phantom leave a few short trails for our pursuers to follow, hopefully it will slow them down for a time. But if we need to, we'll have to split."

Glorfindel frowned. "No…"

Haldir glared. "Now is not the time to argue Glorfindel. You need to get Aisha to safety and if I can buy you time I will. Phantom is fleet of foot and smart, we can both lead our pursuers away from Lothlorien if we need to."

"I do not like it."

"We have no choice. Aisha is your responsibility Glorfindel, you need to stay safe."

"You're not expendable." Glorfindel growled.

"Neither are you and I'm not letting them catch scent of that little girl." Haldir growled right back. "We'll ride for Lothloriens borders but if our enemy catches up I will lead them away."

"No."

"I wasn't giving you an option." Haldir replied. "You must trust me Glorfindel, I may be new to Middle Earth but I know what I am doing with a horse, I won't be engaging them I'm simply going to lure them away and I'll only do so if there is no other option."

"What is pursuing us?"

Glorfindel sighed. "We do not know but it's large. I fear it's a Warg."

Haldir sighed as well. "It's not one, I saw two and there may be more. I don't know if its Orcs or Wargs and I hope we don't find out, if we can cross Lothlorien's borders, we'll be fine, Lady Galadriel's power will not let them cross into our forest but we must ride fast."

"Are we in danger?" Aisha asked softly and full of fear.

"Not if I can help it little one." Haldir assured.

Glorfindel shot Haldir a look but Haldir ignored it. "I want you to hold tight to Kel'Anna." The eldest Lothlorien elf instructed. "We are going to gallop and it'll be uncomfortable but I need you to keep a hold of him, okay sweetheart."

The fear on her face was heart-breaking but she trusted her guardian and nodded her head. "Okay." She gripped Kel'Anna's tunic tight and Glorfindel nodded approvingly.

"Okay, let's ride."

The horses suddenly bolted as their riders pushed them into a gallop from a stand-still. Aisha didn't shriek but she looked like she wanted to as the horses stampeded forward. Kel'Anna was bouncing in his seat, using all his muscles to keep himself as still as possible, his arm held the child tightly to him stopping her from bouncing and hurting herself. They heard a howl as their pursuer realised that it had been tricked. Glorfindel and Haldir shared a look, it was indeed Wargs chasing them and even the fastest horse could not outrun a pack of vicious Wargs, their only hope was that they crossed the borders of their home forest before the pack came upon them.

Haldir heard them before he saw them, their heavy paws broke branches and twigs as they clawed their way through the forest after the elves. They were closing in on Lothlorien but the Wargs were closing in on them and Haldir could see Im'Ladrai's horse tiring. A glance towards Kel'Anna and Glorfindel showed neither had noticed yet. As he turned back to look at their slowing companion Haldir noticed ugly and cold yellow eyes glaring back as a huge paw pushed the huge monster towards them. The huge hyena looking animal lunged forward with what looked suspiciously like a grin on its huge mouth full of razor sharp teeth. The animal howled in success alerting the rest of its pack to its preys' location. Haldir acted on instinct he let an arrow fly and it struck the Warg in the eye killing it instantly, but the rest of the pack was closing in.

Aisha watched him with terror as Haldir pushed Phantom harder than ever, the animal was panting for the first time and it was clear Phantom was frightened and exhausted but the horse kept going never failing its rider. Glorfindel crossed the border, closely followed by Kel'Anna and Aisha but Im'Ladrai's horse stumbled. Haldir acted on instinct he grabbed Im'Ladrai's shoulder and pulled the elf onto Phantom's back just as a Warg burrowed its teeth into Im'Ladrai's horse, the horse shrieked in pain and terror but it was dead before it hit the floor. Another Warg swiped at Phantom's hooves, the horse cried out and fell sending both elves flying. Haldir checked for Phantom and saw the horse already climbing to its feet, thankfully the stallion was uninjured but frightened. Im'Ladrai was lying beside Haldir panting with exhaustion and pain, the fall had clearly sprained or broken something but Haldir was more focused on the Warg coming straight for them.

Haldir's vision blurred and he pressed a hand to his brow, feeling wetness he lowered it and saw blood through his fuzzy vision. Darkness threatened the corner of his eyes before a shadow fell over his vision, at first he feared he was blind but he noted a powerful four legged form rushing towards the attacking beast. As his vision completely blurred he heard a pained roar and the sound of a body falling. He cried out for his horse but his voice was weak, his ears rang but he was sure he could hear a voice calling, he tried to respond but all that came out was a weak gasp. Im'Ladrai was no better, the elf was not even trying to speak and appeared to have lost all consciousness.

It took more willpower than Haldir believed he possessed but somehow he found his feet and shook of the overwhelming urge to sleep. He dare not stray from his fallen companion so instead he touched a tree and begged it to alert his searchers. The warmth coming from the tree was reassuring and he could feel Lady Galadriel's reassurance through the forests air. Figures appeared in the distance and quickly closed in, Haldir smiled as he recognised the blonde heads of the Lothlorien elves. Orophin closed in and quickly gathered Haldir into his arms when it was clear that Haldir was about to collapse. "Phantom. Where's Phantom?" He demanded.

"You mean he's not here?" Glorfindel demanded. "Search the borders, find the horses!" The elf demanded. "Orophin, Rumil, take Haldir and Im'Ladrai back to the Lady, they need healing quickly. I saw the fall and I know for a fact that both elves have head injuries."

Haldir shrugged his brother's hands off him. "I'm not leaving without Phantom." He stated.

Glorfindel pressed a hand to Haldir's shoulder. "I will find him, my friend. You must trust me, I will find him. You need to go home, now."

Haldir searched Glorfindel's eyes and finally nodded. "I trust you. Please find him, he saved our lives."

A supporting arm wrapped around his waist and supported his weight as he walked through the forest. Orophin held him close offering silent support whilst Rumil carried Im'Ladrai with the aid of another elf who's name escaped Haldir's mind. Haldir gratefully leaned into his elder's brother's arms and listened to Lady's Galadriel's soothing reassurances as they closed in on the Lothlorien citadel. He was safe at least, he could only hope Phantom was alright.