Story Downloaded from Open Scrolls Archive (https://www.openscrolls.net)

Title: Butterfly- Chrysalis (#1768)
Author: Rous
Chapters: 15

Archive: Tolkien
Category: Alternate Universe (AU)
Description: Part ll of Butterfly.  The continuing story of Ela.
Published: 06 Apr 2005
Updated: 16 Oct 2006
Warnings: None
Type: Drama
Characters: Haldir: Ela (OFC); sundry others


Chapter 1 - Chapter One

Obligatory Disclaimer (In case you did not read the first part, I would strongly suggest that you do; some of what goes on will make more sense.)
I own no part of any copyrighted materials.  I barely own my house.  I own my own creations only.  This is just an obsession of mine that is getting out of control.  (Just ask the Dude, who does not get Tolkien at all.  I know, sacrilege).

                    Later chapters will deal with stronger issues. (Death, rape, torture) 

	Time sometime in the TA.  May run until 3021. This is a rewrite of an earlier story.  Any similarities were intended.  It is a rewrite.  Both are posted under my name, but different titles.  If you have read the original story somewhere, please forget it.  Pretty please?  I hope you will like this one better.  I do.  I plan on four parts running up to 2004 AD. (Yeah, try to figure out how that will work)!

	If you have any questions about issues dealt with in this story, please let me know.  I have read the books and seen the movies, but as it is a very complex world that has been woven, I cannot think that anyone knows everything about it.  So, if I have slipped up somewhere, I would appreciate knowing of it.  Issues with the vacillation between American and UK English are due to reading too many historical novels.  I happen to like some of the spellings (which did not make my English teachers or professor happy)  You will just have to deal with it.

	Issues with phraseology will be squelched.  I find it difficult enough to read the style of Tolkien's writing, I am not about to try to emulate it in mine.  So, although I have tried to keep it formal, I hope it is not cumbersome.

	Outside of a very few words (Ada, sell, Iell) I have used little actual Elvish.  This is partly due to the fact that I am not knowledgeable enough to just whip out the words I want.  But it is mostly because the story is set in the Elves' world.  It would be redundant to use Elvish words when they are already speaking Elvish.  So, only a few choice words.  Again, deal with it.

	I want to thank snowdrop for taking on the job of beta.  I would also like to thank the people in the OSA forums who jump on the wagon when I am journeying through areas of which I am not sure.  They are very helpful.  When possible, I will give the credit where it is due.  To all others, thank you for your topic deviations.  They give a much needed break and a chuckle here and there that develops into a laugh at times.


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A Butterfly Effect- Chrysalis



The low clouds covering the upper heights of the land emphasized the name given to the highest known chain of mountains, Hithaeglir-the Misty Mountains, to men.  They hung like a gauzy curtain, shifting form with the wind.  The swirling eddies gave the view upwards a surreal feel.  It daunted any not used to the majesty of the sweeping peaks.  The stiff breeze tearing down the narrow valley carried a promise of the coming season.  It swept over the ground stirring up loose gravel and leaves left over from the preceding winter.  

	The valley below was bathed in shadow.  It had been so for several days.  The sun hid behind the heavy drape of clouds.  No rain fell, but neither did sunlight.  All life held its breath waiting for the change.

	The mountains lay within sight of many settlements.  The grandeur of Imladris; the mystery of Lothlórien; the disquiet of Isengard; the humbleness of Misty Haven, the edain village east of Imladris, all lay under the watchful eye of the range of mountains.  To some, it was a daunting sight.  To others, a comfort.  To some, it was just home.  To one, it was a stop on the journey to her destiny.

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	Ela woke to the sound of running water.  Sitting up, she winced.  Remembering the night before, she groaned.  Would she never learn?  Wine was not one of the things she tolerated well.  A birthday was not a good enough excuse for the suffering she was sure would follow her day.  She gingerly felt for her robe.  Ah, there it was-dancing beyond her reach.  She lunged for the robe, tripping over her shoes.  he “dancing” robe turned out to be a mere chair.  Wrapping the soft material around her chilled body, she slipped her feet into the shoes.  Walking from her bedroom, she shuffled to the small kitchen.  Ah, hot water.  She would be sure to say thank you.  Fixing a pot of tea, Ela looked over the letters on the table.  Turning at a noise behind her, she smiled.

	“Good morning, Grandmother.”

	“I am surprised to see you up so early.  You were quite late last night.”  Elestra looked closely at the younger woman.  Satisfied she was all right, she continued.  “Your father was asking about you.  He noticed you had left.”

	“Did he ask long?  I did not mean to upset him, but there was something that caught my interest.”

	“I am sure,” Elestra laughed.  “What are your plans for the day?”

	“I think I shall go riding.  It has been too long.  I feel the need to run along the upper meadows.  Maybe I will bring back some conies for supper.”

	“I think you are expected elsewhere for supper.”

	Ela gave a small pout.  “This is the first day I have had to myself in months.  Do you think he would mind if I was absent?”

	“I think he would send out search parties.”  Elestra smiled.  The girl rub at being confined so much.  No, not a girl any longer.  She watched as Ela went back to her bedroom.

	Lady Elrénia had changed little.  At first glance, it was easy for strangers to dismiss her.  Other than her hair, she had nothing physical to draw one.  However, her temperament and willingness to help others set her apart.  She had become a presence in the town at the west end of the valley.  Her reputation as a healer had enabled her to meet many she would not have met in Lórien.  However, not many knew her.  While friendly and willing to aid any who asked, she jealously guarded her private time.  Very few were allowed to infringe upon her solitude.

	She carried her small frame with pride, the muscles hidden beneath the sleeves of her robe.  She could ride with the best and shoot better than most other elleth.  She distained the servants that her father employed, doing most of her own work.  She allowed Garan, her father’s gardener to tend to the grounds, but only because she had no time to do so herself.  The muscles she had built up had not come from the fields alone.  She had insisted on helping with the building of her house.  From laying the foundation, to finishing the roof, she had been in on all of it.  She could lovingly caress a wall support, knowing that she personally helped raise it and nailed it in place.  It was a mark of pride that she had no qualms showing off.  Her house was hers because she had helped create it.  

	Ela returned to the kitchen dressed in her riding clothes- soft grey flannel riding pants and a grey tunic.  Even her boots were grey.  It was as if she were trying to hold onto a past that she had left behind.  Her coppery-gold hair was twisted upon her head, leaving her face clear.  The bright blue eyes glanced around the room.  All was as it should be.  Ela sighed in contentment.  Only one thing seemed missing, and she would see him later.  

	“I will see you later, Grandmother,” she said, bending to kiss the proffered forehead.  “I shall return for dinner.  You may tell him.”

	“Please, be careful.  I do not like it when you ride in the upper reaches.”

	“I will.  And, the horse is sure-footed.  He has not fallen once.”

	“Have a good ride.”

	Ela waved.  Turning, she left the kitchen, going through the dining room.  This was vastly different from the small kitchen.  There was seating enough for twenty comfortably.  One thing drummed into her at an early age was the importance of dining.  It not only satisfied a natural need, but also served as a very social event.  Even dinners with the family had been a chance to catch up on the day’s events, discuss problems, review lessons learned.  Dinner was an important part of the 
day.

	The family room was no less grand.  A huge fireplace lined one wall.  Another held shelves of books from all over the known world, and a few from lands not so well known.  A large cabinet held liquors from various realms.  Ela herself did not indulge often, but she did entertain enough to keep something on hand.  The carpets lining the floor were worn with use.  The furniture was solid, but showing the wear of many happy gatherings. 

	To the rear of the house were the bedrooms used by her and Elestra.  Her small one contained a cabinet filled with bottles and a few favourite books.  A larger wardrobe held her trousers and tunics with just enough room to hang a few dresses.  The open window gave passage to whichever cat wanted in at the time.  

 	Next to her room was another small room for her grandmother, when she chose to visit.  It was similarly furnished and kept open and ready at all times.

	Upstairs were the guest rooms.  Three smaller ones that were kept for storage.  There was a master room waiting for the time a man would finally come home to posess it.  It was as large as the two rooms downstairs combined.  It contained two beds and a wardrobe.  The guests this room had seen over the years would astound the average landowner.  For such an unassuming dwelling, quite a parade of visitors had travelled through; elves…Dwarves…Hobbits.  It was even rumoured that some more unsavoury characters had passed through.  None had the temerity to ask, and Ela was, as ever, not very forthcoming with her private doings.  

	Glancing around the family room once more, Ela went to the closet where she kept her bow.  Closing the door behind her, she sighed in satisfaction.  Glancing up at the overcast sky however, caused a frown.  The hope that rain did not spoil her ride ran through her head.

	
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	Returning home, Ela bathed and dressed for dinner.  Her grandmother was already gone, so Ela set out on the walk across the valley to her father’s home.  Glancing up at the heights, she admired the vast dwelling.  She never grew tired of the beauty of the home.  Nestled in folds of the mountains themselves, the building of rock and wood seemed a work of nature, rather than one of flesh and blood.  The entire front of the edifice was made up of glass, surrounded by well-laid stone.  The terrace itself was nearly as large as the house.  Ela smiled, thinking of the tea parties that very terrace had hosted.  One, she remembered fondly, had included the vaunted Lord Celeborn of Lórien.  Now, thinking back, she was appalled at her temerity.  But, back then, she had been but a child, looking to find new friends.	

	She had crossed the wide meadow and was now approaching the road leading to Imladris.  Gathering up her skirts and started up the stairs leading to the balcony, Ela remembered the first time she had come up those stairs, in Elrohir’s arms.  A mere child that would be mistaken for far fewer than her ten years.  She had come many miles since that day.  Many memories crowded her thoughts- the good and the bad.  She turned at a slight noise behind her.  She saw an ellon gaining on her.  She turned back and continued up the stairs.  Ever uneasy with heights, she did not move as quickly as another would.  Her breath became short and her hand shook slightly.  Hearing footsteps behind her, she gave a small start and turned, finding herself looking levelly into the face of one of the fairest elves she had ever seen.

	“I am sorry, my lady,” he said.  “I did not mean to startle you.”  His voice was soft and melodious.  He was struck by her very un-elven appearance  

	Ela felt her breath catch.  “No, it is my fault,” she answered, her voice even softer.

	“No, I should have backed off a bit.”

	“It would not be an issue, if I did not loathe climbing the stairs.”

	“You do not like the heights?”  His voice carried surprise.  “I cannot imagine an elf fearful of heights.”

	“Yes, well, you are not the only one.”

	“I apologize for my rudeness.  My name is Legolas.”

	Ela started.  “Then you would be Thranduil’s son.  I have always wanted to visit Mirkwood.”  Damn, she sounded like a girl.  Not at all proper.

	“Mirkwood would be graced by a visit from you.”

	Gaining her composure, she turned back up the stairs.  He followed at a slight distance, giving her space.  At the top of the staircase, she paused.

	“Are you all right, my lady?”  He began to suspect who she was.

	As she turned, he was struck once again with her.  He took in her stature and fair skin.  The freckles skipping across her nose and cheeks gave her a mischievous look.  Her pale gold hair held enough copper glints to make her bloodlines suspect.  But her eyes held him in thrall.  They were so deep and blue, deep enough to drown in.  Ah, yes.  He had heard rumours of Lórien’s half-elven women, each of them different in their own way. His father may shun contact with his cousins to the west, but that did not mean that there was none between their peoples.  Several of the couriers had spoken of Ela and Meliel in passing.  Mostly it was the joke that Ela had captured Rúmil’s heart, when it was well known that he had dallied with young hopefuls in both kingdoms.  He had garnered quite a reputation even in Mirkwood for broken hearts.  Then it all stopped.  Abruptly.  And, if the rumours concerning the two of them were true, he could see why.  While she did not physically resemble her father in any way, saving the eyes, she drew one’s attention nonetheless.  Her hair; her skin; even her petite shape was so different, it was intriguing.

	“No.  I... mean yes.”  She closed her eyes until the dizzy spell ended.  

	“Ela, are you well?”   She looked up to see Haldir standing in front of her.  He took a moment to nod to Legolas.

	“I will be fine.  It always takes me just a few minutes to adjust.”  She smiled up at him.  “See?  All better now.  Thank you.”  She took the arm Haldir offered her and went with him to the door.  

	Legolas followed them into Elrond’s house.  They walked down the broad corridor to the Hall of Fire, where Elrond was waiting with Erestor and his lady.  Ela left her escort to approach her father.  She did not know he had watched her progress up the stairs with concern.  Giving her a kiss, he nodded to Legolas.  

	“Welcome, Legolas.  It is good to see you, again.”  Elrond was warm in his welcome.  “We see you so rarely.  Has your father something for us?”  Whatever the feelings Thranduil had for the other realms, Legolas had ever held Elrond in esteem.  

	“He might have had, had he known I was coming.  He frowns on my visits, so I do not always tell him.  I am here on my own.”  His grin showed just a trace of irreverence.

	“Oh.  And what draws you here, now?”  There was a glint of amusement in his eyes.

	“Curiosity, my lord.  Things are slow at home, and I desire a bit of excitement, so I decided to go exploring.”

	“And what have you discovered so far?”

	“That Lórien hides more secrets than are suspected.  For example, you know my father has allowed men to settle parts of Mirkwood.  Moreover, we know Lórien will not.  Yet, there are persistent rumours that even they have that which they once did not.  It is well known that Lórien may hold many things, but a word is not one of them.  And now I find that the reason for a visit to Lórien is no longer there, but here.”

	“And what do you think of your discovery?”

	“That I have not actually been introduced.  It is a poor way to begin, do you not think?”  He managed to throw just enough humor into his tone of voice to not offend.  The grin he gave Elrond did not hurt.  The Lord of Imladris laughed.

	Erestor stood and addressed Legolas.  “Well met, Lord Legolas.  You are a courtier worthy of even Imladris.  Do you not agree, Elrond?”

	“Very much so,” he smiled.  He stood and took Ela’s hand.

	“Ela, this is Lord Legolas of Mirkwood, Thranduil’s son.  Legolas, may I present Lady Elrénia, my cousin and daughter of Dorlandad.  She is also the heir to the throne of the Indrel.”

	“Would that not make you a princess?” Legolas asked, a gleam in his eye.  He had caught the wince she gave at the last title.  It was apparent even to one who did not know her that she found it distasteful.

	“It would, if I cared.  I do not.  I do not care for the subject at all.  It seems royalty is much overrated, in my opinion, present company excepted.”  She said this quietly, with no sign of disrespect towards either Elrond or Legolas.  Elrond had been through the attempts of the Indrel to cajole her to return.  Legolas had been told by Rúmil how much she disliked the notoriety her parentage caused her.

	Haldir held his breath at the blatant insult she had just thrown.  Legolas blinked twice, then threw back his head and laughed.  Haldir relaxed.  He agreed with Ela to an extent, but it did not do to slight those above you.  Then it suddenly dawned on him that maybe Legolas was not above Ela.  He had never given much thought to her status, other than the fact she was Elrond’s daughter.  Yet, from what he had learned from Galadriel concerning her mother’s people, and the common knowledge concerning her father’s parentage, it may well be that Ela was Thranduil’s son’s equal, if not his superior.  As if she would ever trade on that.  He knew Ela placed no store in her own social status.  She placed her respect in the person himself.  To her, the ellon who cared for her horse was just as noble as was Lord Celeborn.  All knew it, and it amused the Lord and Lady.  She had actually invited Unimandil’s assistant to tea with her and Celeborn.  Only she did not see the problem.  It had made Celeborn smile, and had embarrassed Barnel to no end.  

	“It seems that Lórien has hidden more wit than it does men.  How is it that Mirkwood has never seen you?”

	“It was not by my doing, trust me.  Those who knew better thought it not a sound idea to visit.  Perhaps someone could change their minds.”  She glanced first to her father, then to Haldir as she said this.  

	“Actually, my father has expressed an interest in a visit.  He is intrigued by the stories he has heard.  The latest rumour has him even more interested.”

	“And what rumour would that be?” Ela asked with a sinking heart.  

	“That soon you will be returning to Lórien.”

	Ela’s head jerked up in surprise.  “Who says that?”

	“When things are in hand, talk turns to other subjects.  Right now, Lórien is more interesting than is  Mirkwood. 

	Legolas had the distinct impression that Ela thought he was going to say something else.  He would have, but had been warned not to bring the subject up.  It seemed she was touchy about it.

	“Will you be here long?” asked Erestor of Legolas.

	“Until I feel the need to return, if it is all right with Lord Elrond.”

	Elrond turned as Ela laid a hand on his arm.  She asked to withdraw with Seldala.  He nodded and turned back to Legolas. “Stay as long as you like.  You are always welcome.”  

	“Of course.”  Legolas bowed and waited until the ladies had withdrawn to turn to Haldir.  “Well, she is charming.  Where did you find her?”

	“You would have to ask her father.”

	He looked at Elrond.  “She is quite cheeky, is she not?” he said with a grin.

	Elrond stood up and walked over to Legolas.

	“No,” he said, passing him.

	“No, what?” asked the prince in mock confusion.

	“No, she will not come to Mirkwood.  No, your father can stop his scheming.  No.”

	Legolas laughed.  “How did you know what he planned?”

	“He is ambitious for his son.  I am only surprised that he would reach so far.  Surely Mirkwood has its charms, also.”

	“It does.  Yet, he is ambitious.  I am curious.  Has she and Rúmil made a formal announcement?  There are several wagers against it.  Mostly by the poor heartbroken he has left in Mirkwood.”

	“Tell them to collect their winnings,” said Haldir.  “There will be no announcement.”

	Legolas looked surprised.  “By all accounts, they should already be wed.”

	Haldir looked disgusted.  He really thought his brother had gone too far.  

	“That is greatly exaggerated.”

	Legolas hid a small smile.  So, the other rumours he had heard were true.  It was not Rúmil, but Ela who had refused.  That was an interesting piece of information.

	Elrond watched the interaction between the two of them.  Legolas’ probing had set Haldir on edge.  His attention was drawn away by Seldala and Ela returning.  Ela was smiling.  Thinking back on the years he had known her, he sighed.  Would it not have been easier to go to the West with Celebrian?  Then he would have been spared the troubles of being responsible for yet another child.  But, smiling to himself, he knew he would not have missed in the last forty years.  

	
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 Dinner was simple, by Imladris’ standards: only six courses through which to sit.  When the time to withdraw to the Hall of Fire arrived, Ela was more than ready to go.  She could sense Haldir felt the same.  Twenty years had not been enough to wear at the simplicity she had enjoyed in Lórien.  Even in her own home, she seldom ate more than necessary to keep going.  

	Erestor and Seldala’s son, Ethien had found a corner where he hoped his parents would not notice him.  His plan was to stay up as long as possible and gather stories to add to his collection.  He was following in his father’s footsteps as a scholar, but his demeanor was not as staid as his sire’s.  He had inherited his temperament from his mother.  Though he was kind and gentle, he had a rash streak that tried Erestor at times.  

	 Ela went to the corner to collect her lute.  Sitting down on the flagging in front of the fireplace next to Glorfindel, she began tuning her instrument to his.  Haldir acquired a drum for the corner and sat on Glorfindel’s left.  Legolas grinned and went to find an instrument of his own.  Coming up with a flute, he sat down on a low bench not far away.  Glorfindel started a tune that had the others joining in not long after.  It was a simple piece with a gentle melody that quickly led to a livelier song about young love.  They convinced Arwen to sing a song, weaving the music around her voice.  At the end of the song, there was a quiet that permeated the room.  

	No one noticed Ethien slink along the outer wall to tap on Haldir’s shoulder.  Taking the drum from the warden, he sat down as the older man got up.  Glordinel started another song.  Ethien picked up the beat and settled into it as Legolas followed on the flute.  

	Elrond watched, intrigued, as Haldir went over to Ela.  Bowing, slightly, he held out his hand to her.  She smiled, taking the offered hand and let him pull her up.  When they had reached the middle of the room, he gently took her in his arms and they began to dance.  It was a slow, sweeping dance that took them to the far reaches of the floor.  Their eyes never left each other.  

	Well, thought the Lord of Imladris to himself, it may not be long, after all.  He thought back on the promise he had extracted from her over thirty years ago.  She had kept her word.  It had not been easy, he knew that.  She had confided in him more than once the burning need move down a road that only she could see.  However, she had found other things to occupy her time.  Coming back home to study with Melkin had been one of those things.  As it brought her back home, he had not objected.  He had enjoyed the close proximity.  He had hidden his disappointment when she had moved into her own home, but was content in the knowledge that she was just across the valley.  

	He started as Arwen came up to him.

	“Would you dance with me, Ada?” she asked.

	“Of course, iell.”  He stood and led her out to the floor.  

	“You were lost in thought,” she said to him, held in his embrace.

	“I was.  I know what you would not tell me all those years ago.”

	Arwen glanced around at the other couple dancing.  Laughing softly, she said, “It was not such a great secret, if you were there.  It seems he is the only one who does not know.  However, I think that is changing.  He is different at home.  Some say moodier, after these visits.  Others say happier.”  She looked into her father’s eyes.  “Are you prepared for when 
she leaves?”

	He glanced at her.  Sighing, he shook his head.  “No more so than when you leave.  I still do not understand your need to be so far away.”

	“Ada, when the time is right, I will return.  Some things you cannot control.  I am at peace.  Can you not just accept?”

	He sighed once more.  Pressing her head to his shoulder, he gently kissed her hair.  How he missed Celebrian.  She was his light, his soul mate.  Just the decisions of what to wear for dinner would have been much easier with someone to share.  There were times he longed to have gone with her; at others, he almost hated her for leaving him.  He looked forward to the day when he and their children would once again be with her.  Then he glanced at Ela.  Could he convince her to go, also?  He knew Elestra was looking forward to the day she would finally go to be with her beloved.  Surely Ela would want to meet her grandfather.

	His thoughts were interrupted by the ending of the song.  Bringing himself back to the present, he turned as Dalgren brought in a tray laden with wine and cheese.  Setting it down, she turned to leave, only to have Ela ask her to stay.  Glancing at Elrond, the woman shyly nodded.  

	Around the edges of laughter and the clinking of glasses, the conversation turned to talk of past deeds.  Erestor pretended not to notice that Ethien had crept into the background once more, a sheaf of paper in his lap.  The stories would keep the boy busy for weeks, placing them just so in the book he was compiling.  Erestor gave a rare smile.  It was a distinct difference from the boy who only last week had been caught milling around the tavern in the village.  The proprietor had allowed it until things appeared to be heading for a rough brawl.  Then he had sent the boy packing with a messenger following to report to Lord Erestor.  The boy was well liked in the village, but his parentage made most of the men leery of too much influence.  

	Well into the night, Ela announced that she was going home to bed.  She had work to do in the morning and could not sit around drinking and spinning tales all night.  It was lost on no one that she had drunk little.  Furthermore, she spun no tales.  Elestra stood and nodded to Elrond, deciding that she was ready to leave, also.  

	Legolas offered to see them home, but both ladies declined, smiling.  When Ela had gathered her grandmother’s wrap, she walked over to Elrond.  Giving him a peck on the cheek, she turned and bid the others goodnight.  Taking Elestra’s arm in hers, she went with the older elleth out to the terrace.  Ela taking the inside of the stairs, they started down.  When they had reached the bottom, Elestra looked back at the sound of footsteps following them.

	Catching up, Haldir said to Ela, “You forgot your lute.  Your father suggested I return it to you.”

	“Thank you,” she said softly.  “That is twice in two nights.  I am getting forgetful.”

	Elestra smiled in the dark.  Forgetful, indeed.  So, Elrond had finally caught on.  It took him long enough.

	They walked in silence.  Reaching the house, Elestra excused herself and went indoors.   Ela sat on the cushioned swing hanging from the porch ceiling.  She left enough room for him to sit, should he be inclined.  Taking her lute from him, she plucked a few notes.  She pretended not to notice when he sat down.  She picked out the tune of a song that she and Meliel had written together.

	“Was Legolas correct?” he hesitated to know the answer.

	“In what way?” she asked.

	“Are you returning?”  He held his breath.  She stopped playing.

	“I am.  Soon.  But not yet.”

	He sat back.  Looking up into the mountains, he glanced at the sky above.  A single star shone through the clouds.  At last.  It was the first in days.  He could not remember such a run of overcast weather.  

	“Would you like to go riding tomorrow?” she asked him, unexpectedly.  He glanced at her to gauge her seriousness.

	“I cannot,” he said, regretfully.  “I must return home.  I have delivered the messages I was sent with and your father will have some for me to carry back.”

	“Oh,” she said.  “When will you return?”

	“I have no idea.  Whenever the Lord or Lady has need.  I do have a duty to them.”

	“Ah, yes.  A duty.  Well, then, I will bid you farewell.  I am up early to my duties.  Please send word when you or Rúmil may be coming. I would like to hear from those in Lórien. I do miss Gariel and Orophin.”

	“I have news; Gariel is expecting a child.  She wanted me to tell you.  Something about speeches not being wasted.”  He had a slightly confused look on his face.

	She laughed.  “That is wonderful.  She has wanted a daughter for so long.  Please, give her my best.  I will see her soon.”	

	“I will, but she will want to know when.  She has missed you sorely.”

	“I miss many.  It will be soon enough.”  She stood.  “Thank you for coming to dinner last night.  It made a pleasurable evening even more so.”  She turned to go into the house. Did he notice the slight pause?  If so, nothing was said, so she went in and closed the door.  He sat for several minutes before rising and heading back across the field.  He did not look back.  Had he done so, he would have seen her standing in the window watching him leave, once again.


Chapter 2 - Chapter Two

Ela looked up from the reports she was filling out.  The outer door opening had caught her attention.  She was expecting her father, but it was too early yet.  Sighing, she got up to see who had come in.  Her eyes widened as she saw a man standing in the small receiving room.  His hair and clothing was dishevelled and he looked to be in shock.

	“May I help you?” she asked, automatically speaking in Westron.  She did not know the man, so chances were that he was newly arrived.  

	“My wife, she is in trouble!”  He surprised her by speaking in Elvish.

	“What is the matter?”  Her mind was already trying to remember where it was Melkin had said he would be 
today.  It was her turn to stay and wait for patients in the office.

	“She is delivering, but something is wrong.”

	“Where is she?”  Ela grabbed a bag sitting on a chair in the study.

	“Not far.  Where is the healer?”  He kept looking for someone behind her.

	“I am a healer.  Are you ready?”

	“But…” he stammered.  “You are but a child.  I need the healer!”

	“We can stand here and debate my ability to aid your wife, and she will die, along with the babe.  Or you can take me to her, and give them both a chance.”

	The man looked around one last time.  Resigned to the fact there was no healer available, he stepped out of the way.  He kept glancing at her as he led the way.  He could not know that she was fully capable of doing anything Melkin could do.  He could also not know that the ‘child’ that accompanied him was older than he was.

	At fifty, Ela had already attained her full height.  Her hair and ears were a dead giveaway to her mixed heritage.  Most in the valley knew who and what she was.  However, visitors routinely mistook her for human.  She seldom set them straight.  Although she had felt the need to learn the healing of humans, it did not make her any more fond of them.  Her experiences with any outside the Elves, Dwarves and Hobbits had taught her a healthy dislike for men.  She would treat their illnesses and aid in their births, but outside of a handful, she was not inclined to befriend them.  Moreover, the three times the Indrel had made contact, she had refused even to acknowledge their presence.  Even Erestor had been unable to move her.  Her only joy came from returning to her small house, set below one of the many waterfalls.  She received few guests there.  If any wanted to meet with her, they did so in her father’s house, in his presence.  It was the one stipulation she had made to returning.  Benerd’s family was the only humans permitted to her home, although Dorga was a regular visitor; and Rúmil and Haldir stopped by when in Imladris on business from Lórien.

	She looked at the man.

	“What is your name?”

	“Cabel.”

	“And your wife?”

	“Lutheliel.”

	Ela frowned.  That sounded Elvish.

	“I have never seen you before.  Are you visiting, or living here?”

	“We arrived only weeks ago.  We have a small homestead in the mountains north of here.  I brought her because I do not know what to do.  Can you help her?”

	“I will do my best.  I should tell you that I have not lost anyone yet,” Ela said with a smile, hoping to allay some of his fear.  She noted that they were bound for the inn.  Glancing further up the street, she paused.  “Just a moment,” she told the man.  He watched her approach a stately Elf.  He recognized him as the Lord of Rivendell.  Cabel stood surprised when the girl walked into an embrace and reached up to receive a kiss on her cheek.  He could not hear what she said to the man, but waited as she drew him closer.

	“Ada, this is Cabel.  His wife is delivering, and he is seeking help.  Have you seen Melkin?”

	“No, Iell, but you are most capable of handling it.”

	“I know, but he would feel better if Melkin was there.”

	Elrond looked at the man.  “Would you like me to attend?”

	Cabel was flabbergasted.

	“No, my lord,” he stammered.  “The girl will be enough.  I would not dream of dragging you away from your business for such a trivial thing.”

	“There is nothing trivial about childbearing,” admonished Elrond.  “And my daughter is quite adept at delivering babes.  She had been doing it for several years now.  You are in good hands.”

	“Your d-d-daughter?”  It seemed the man could not get a sentence out without stuttering.  “I had no idea.”

	“Ela, you did not tell him who you were?”

	“I forgot.  He seemed in such a hurry.”

	“Yet you got his name.”  He turned to the man.  “I apologize for her lack of manners.  She gets too engrossed in her work.  Cabel, this is Elrénia.  She is an excellent healer.  She has taken it upon herself to learn the illnesses of men.  I do not know why, but she does have a knack for it.”

	“I am sorry, my lady.  I had no idea.  I only wanted the healer.”

	“And you have found her.  Now, shall we move on?  I do not think your lady has been waiting quietly for us.”

	Cabel moved quickly to lead them to the inn.  Almost running through the door to the establishment, he found the proprietor waiting for him.

	“I took fresh towels and hot water up.  You had best hurry; it will not be much longer.”  She glanced to see who had accompanied the man.

	“Good afternoon, Lady Elrénia.  It is good to see you again.”  She bowed her head.  “And you, also, Lord Elrond.

	“Thank you, Cleria.  Now, which way to your room?” she asked Cabel.

	“This way,” he said.  They followed him up the stairs to the second floor.  Turning down the hallway to the left, he led them through the door.  Ela immediately went to the woman lying on the bed.  She glanced back at Cabel.

	“She is Elven.  Cabel, you did not tell me this.”

	“Does it make a difference?”

	“Some, I am more versed in human births, but they are much the same.”

	She turned back to the woman.

	“Lutheliel, how do you feel?”

	“Something is not right.  There is too much pain.”

	“I want you to rest now.  I can help you, but you can do it yourself.  Just relax.  You have worked yourself up.  It is not good for the babe.”  She laid her hand on the woman’s brow.  Cabel watched in amazement as Lutheliel quieted and drifted off to sleep.

	“What did you do?”

	“Only what she should have done herself.  Ada, we need to move her to the infirmary.  I cannot help her much here.”  Cabel stood in shock as Elrond moved to the bed and picked Lutheliel up.  He managed to move out of the way.  “Gather what she will need later, and bring it with you.”  She did not wait to see if he obeyed.  She followed her father out the door.

	Cabel grabbed what he thought they would need and ran after them.  He could not believe that he had managed to upset the routine of the one who had been gracious enough to let them stay.  And the girl, he had not dreamed she was Elven.  She did not look it.  Yet, he had heard her call the man father, and he had called her daughter.  Lutheliel was not going to believe this.

	He lost sight of them on the busy street.  By the time he had reached the infirmary, his wife was settled on a bed in the back.  Elrond was speaking, and Elrénia was examining her.  He dropped the bag he held on a chair and went into the room.  He could not understand the words Elrond spoke, but they had a calming effect on Lutheliel.  He was smoothing her hair from her face.  She spoke back to him in the same language.

	“What are they saying?” he asked Ela.

	“Ada is asking why she is so upset.  He is trying to calm her down.  It is not good for either her or your babe.  He will have a hard time as it is.  She needs to help him all she can.”

	A word registered in Cabel’s mind.

	“He?  It is a boy?  How do you know?”

	“Ela knows.  It is one of the things that make her so good.  Trust her.  If she says it is a boy, it is.”  Elrond took Cabel by the arm and led him to the receiving room.  He had just sat the man down, when Melkin came through the door.

	“Lord Elrond,” he nodded, surprised to see him.  “Is everything well?”

	“There is nothing to worry about,” said Elrond, glancing at Cabel.  “Ela is taking care of things.  Perhaps you would like to check on her.”

	Melkin caught the undercurrent in Elrond’s voice.  He nodded once more, and then went to the back room.  He found Ela standing over a pregnant woman.  As he moved closer, he saw that she was Elven.

	“What do you have, Ela?”

	“Cabel, her husband came earlier and said she was distressed.  When we went to see her, I felt it best to bring her here.  Ada helped me.  I have enabled her to relax enough to sleep.  She is very agitated.  I cannot find the reason.”

	“That is unusual for elves.  Why do you not fix some tea, and I will examine her?”

	“Very well.  Maybe I will slip a little something into Cabel’s tea.  Help him relax.  He is enough to distress me.”

	Melkin chuckled at her.  The twenty-five years she had been studying with him had brought many moments to make him smile.  She was definitely not the girl who had left so many years ago.  He turned back to Lutheliel.  Her breathing had slowed and she had relaxed.  He wished, not for the first time, that he had Ela’s ability to calm her patients.  He knew most elves could do it, but none had been willing to aid him in dealing with men.  She was, even though he knew her dislike for them in general.  When he had finished his examination, he went back to the receiving room.  Everyone looked at him, expectantly.

	“She is fine.  Ela, you did well.  As of right now, there is nothing about which to worry.  She is sleeping.  It will not be much longer.”

	“Thank you.  I could not take her to her family.  They were not accepting of our union.  He father turned her out with nothing.”

	“That does not sound like an Elven family.”  Ela was shocked.  Although her parents had suffered the same fate, her mother’s people had done the disowning.  She had found acceptance with her father’s mother, and her cousin, Lord Elrond.  She would never have expected it of elves.

	“It was not.  Her father is not Elven.  He wanted better for his children.  It is not easy to understand.  He would not accept what he himself did.  Lutheliel and I left and settled in the mountains north.  As this is our first child, and I know nothing of birthing, I brought her here.  But, she keeps muttering about fear and the fact that I do not have one.  She fears for the child.”

	“That will make no difference,” laughed Ela.  “My mother was not Elven, or of the race of men.  Yet, here am I.  Neither is Lord Elrond full Elven.  So, you see, it will be well.  He will be fine.”

	“He.” said Melkin.  He knew better than to doubt.  Ela was never wrong.

	“He,” she stated.  “A big, healthy boy.”

	She and Elrond both started at the moan the other two could not hear.  She hurried to the door of the back room.  Going in, she went to Lutheliel.

	“How do you feel, lady?”

	“Better.  It is time.  You are not human.”

	“No.  I am not.  However, you and your son can ponder that later.  Now, we must bring him in to this world.  Are you ready?”

	“Yes.”

	“I want you to reach into yourself and find a happy place.  Dwell there with part of your mind.  I will take care of the rest.  Melkin,” she called over her shoulder.  “It is time.  Bring in Cabel.”

	“No,” she heard him protest.  “I cannot go in there.  It is not done.”

	“Nonsense,” said Melkin.  “The elves do it, why can we not?”

	She turned and saw the father-to-be reluctantly enter the room.  Melkin motioned him to sit beside Lutheliel’s head.

	“Just talk to her.  She will hear you.”

	Cabel looked down at Lutheliel’s semi-conscious form and did not appear convinced.  He began speaking to her in soft tones.

	Ela placed a blanket over Lutheliel.  She laid out blankets for the baby, and sat down beside the woman to wait.

	She looked at Cabel and noticed for the first time his colouring.  His hair was a shade darker than hers was, and he bore pale freckles across his face.  A suspicion started to form in the back of her mind.  She suddenly rose, and going over to Cabel, she laid a hand on his shoulder.  They both drew away from each other with a gasp.  

	“Who are you?” she demanded.  He looked at her in confusion.

	“I told you.  My name is Cabel.”

	“Where are you from?”

	She had drawn Melkin’s attention and he started towards her, stopping only at a gesture from her father.

	“We came from the White Mountains.  I did not know my father.  He died long ago, before I was born.  My mother left her people when I was young.

	Elrond watched as Ela stepped back.  He could see the emotions warring within her.

	“Iell,” he said softly, “Can you not deal with this later?”  He trod carefully, knowing her feelings for any coming from the White Mountains.

	Reason took over and she shook, slightly.  “Apologies, Ada, Melkin.  Yes, I can.”  She turned back to Lutheliel.  The woman looked up at her, her eyes slightly glazed.  “It is well.  Just relax and let it happen.”  She smiled.  

	Cabel watched in wonder as his son entered the world.  

	Several hours later saw Lutheliel and son firmly ensconced in their room at the inn.  Ela had done what she needed to do to see the new mother and child cleaned up, and had then withdrawn.  Cabel had not noticed, until he wanted to thank her.  

	“But, where did she go?” he asked, when told she was gone.

	“I am sure she went home,” replied Melkin.  He turned to Cabel.  “Who are your mother’s people?”

	Cabel looked confused.  “She only mentioned them a few times, but I do not remember.”

	“Were they Indrel?”  Melkin and Elrond both watched to see his reaction.

	“I think…that could have been…I am just not sure, but that could be what she said.  Why?  Do you know of them?”

	Elrond cleared his throat.  “Elrénia has had less than pleasant experiences with the Indrel.  She does not want any dealings with them.”

	“But I have not seen them since I was young.  And how did she know about me?”

	“Because she is Indrel, or partly.  Her mother’s people are not happy with her.  They want her to come back, and they are not polite about the asking.  Unless you are leaving soon, you would do well to avoid her until she sorts out her feelings.”

	“But, I thought she was your daughter.”  Cabel was very confused by now.

	“She is my cousin, but I did raise her when she was very young.  She has spent most of her life in another realm and only recently returned here.”  Elrond just caught Melkin’s grin at the idea of how recent twenty-five years was.  “She will tolerate you, but do not push her.”

	“My mother told me that nothing good would ever come from her people.  That is why she left.  It was too hard a life and the women died too young.”

	“That is what we have heard, also.  Now, I think it time to get your lady and son settled.  Do not worry about Ela.  Her interest will get the best of her.  She will not be long in deciding to find out more about you.  That is her downfall: an insatiable curiosity.”  Elrond and Melkin helped Cabel back to the inn.  Seeing them settled, Elrond wished them well and took his leave.  Forgetting his destination before the birth of a child had interfered, he made was for home, and the one place he knew she would be.



~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~



	Walking into the domain of Dalgren, his head cook, Elrond slowed to view the sight before him.  Ela was punching dough as if it were Orcs.  Walking up beside her, he brushed the flour from her cheek.  As she turned to look at him, he could sense the disquiet in her.

	“Why?” she asked.  “Why do they not leave me alone?”

	“Ela, I hardly think that Cabel and his wife were sent here to convince you to return.  It is mere coincidence that they are here.”

	“I no longer believe in coincidence.  There is always a purpose.  Maybe it is time I returned to Lórien.  I have learned much from Melkin, but I am growing restless.  I am drawn back.”

	“Are you sure you are ready?”  Elrond was not pleased, but he realized she did have her own life to lead.  

	“I will be.  I have a few things to take care of before I go.  It will be months yet.”

	“Very well.  I trust that you know best in this.”

	“I do have one favour to ask of you.”  She hesitated.

	“Yes, Iell.”  He smiled, encouragingly.

	“When one comes to speak to you, try not to scare him away.”  The twinkle in her eyes belied the 
seriousness of her tone.  He froze, not knowing what to do.  At the small smile tugging on her lips, he burst out laughing.

	“Do you think he is ready?” Elrond asked, when he could get his breath.

	“Oh, he is ready.  The last five years have been working on him.  He has had enough time to think.  And if he is not, the Valar know that I am ready.”

	She started to protest as he drew her into an embrace.  Giving up, she wrapped her arms around him, leaving flour across his dark silk robes.


Chapter 3 - Chapter Three

Life was decidedly slow.  There had been no action on any border in weeks.  Lórien managed to hide its vast acreage and become seemingly invisible to the outside world.  While there were no complaints concerning the inactivity, the wardens and guards were uneasy with the lull.  All knew the feeling of stillness that precedes the storm.

                     Rúmil managed to keep his men busy by constant drilling.  It was a running joke along the wards that if you were bored, just visit the north.  It even seemed that some of the other captains were taking the joke to heart.  There was a large scale shifting of people back and forth all along the border.  Corélned, the healer, was kept quite busy patching up the minor injuries caused by overenthusiastic wardens.  

                    Gariel kept busy with her daughter.  She had learned to her surprise that Orophin had always wanted a daughter.  It was his impression that Gariel was satisfied.  When they had finally talked about it, there was no doubt in either one’s mind that Elldar was to have a sibling.  Aniron was now five-years-old and following her mother everywhere.  And, if it was not Gariel doting on the child, Orophin was the guilty party.  

                   Orophin, for his part, was busy tightening the lines along the eastern stretch of Lórien.  It was the smallest area of the borders, but the proximity of Caras Galadhon and the prevalent belief that if trouble came, it would come from the east, kept that station well manned.  

	Meliel and Delinfel stayed to the south.  They were quite content with their posting and planned to stay there.  

	Elldar stood with the eastern wardens.  He had become invaluable to his father and their captain, Celedien.  He was willing to run messages to any distance needed.  He had become a marksman with the bow, which was saying much, among a people that excelled in archery.  He could almost match his uncle, Rúmil.  The one thing that bothered his parents was his penchant for Mirkwood.  He volunteered for every courier run to the realm to the east.  Rumours had begun trickling back there was a girl that had caught his eye.

	Haldir was the only one seemingly not content with his life.  He spent most of his time travelling between the different warden stations.  He was firm with his captains, but most were noticing a difference after his visits to Imladris.  He become moody and spent more time with himself.  Even Orophin, wrapped up in fatherhood, noticed.  

	Riding the borders alone was good thing and a bad thing.  The good thing, it gave him plenty of time to think; the bad thing, it gave him too much time to think.  Twenty-five years did not seem long in the grand scheme when you were immortal, but when your head was confused with thoughts you were not sure about, it seemed an eternity.  The sporadic trips to Imladris were not helping.  They gave him just enough time to decide that he had imagined something was there, only to be confronted with the fact that there was something there.  Bah, he could not even make sense to himself.

 And, the impressions he got from her?  They were as confusing as his own thoughts.  She danced and laughed with him, and turned right around and gave the same attentions to Legolas and Rúmil.  If she professed no attraction for his brother, she was clearly acting as if there were.  One thing was certain; she was making him irrational.

	

~*~*~*~*~



	Gariel glanced up from her gardening at a squeal from Aniron.  The girl had been sitting, quietly playing with a doll; now she ran for the gate and the tall figure coming up the walk.  Although surprised, Gariel was pleased to see her husband’s elder brother.  He spent far too much time alone.  She watched as he picked up his niece and swung her up into the air.  Giggling, Aniron managed to plant a very sloppy kiss on his forehead.

	“Uncle Haldir!  Did you see my ada?”

	“No, Titta pen.  I have not seen him today.”  He walked back to the garden, carrying Aniron.  Swinging her around once more, he set her down next to her doll.

	“Good afternoon, Haldir.  What brings you into the city this time of day?”  Gariel’s smile stirred something in him; something he could not quite grasp.

	“I have reports for Lord Celeborn.  I thought to stay the night.”  He glanced at the house, in particular at the small room in the back.  Gariel had seen his gaze more than once locked on that window.  She had even found him standing in the door, looking at what few books and jars were still there.  Ela had not left much behind, just enough to give hope of her return, a hope to which Gariel still clung.  Letters were not enough.

	She rose from the mat she used for gardening.  Taking Aniron’s hand, she led her towards the house.  

	“Have you eaten?” she asked Haldir, following her.  “I have some cold meats and cheese.  There is tea on the table.  I will go see to your talan.”  She looked up at him.  “Will you come for supper?”

	He grinned.  “It is better than any other offer I have received.  Will my brother be in for dinner?”

	“I have no reason to think otherwise.  How does it go along the marches?”

	“Well enough.  It is quiet.  Some think too quiet.  I, for one, am quite comfortable with the situation as it is.  It makes my job easier.  Have you received any letters lately?”

	“Only the one you read last week.”  She looked up into his eyes.  “Why do you not write her?”

	He hesitated.  “I do not know what to say,” he said softly.

	“You know she always asks of you.  Have you considered that?”

	“She asks of Rúmil and Glorfindel.  What has that to do with anything?”

	Gariel sighed.  “Will you stay with Aniron?  I will not be long.  I want to make sure you have everything you need.  She will be no trouble.”  

	“She is never any trouble.  We will just have lunch, then sit and relax.  Right, Aniron?”

	“Yes, Uncle Haldir.  I would like a sandwich.  Elldar brought home a boar.  Ada cooked it on a fire in the garden.”

	“I would like to have seen that.  I will wager it was a big fire.”

	Gariel left them discussing the roast boar.  She shook her head.  He was always so patient with his niece.  

	 Hurrying up to the talan that the brothers shared, she pondered Haldir’s reluctance to talk about Ela.  Anyone who knew them intimately knew how Ela felt about him.  He seemed to be the only one not seeing it.  While checking the bedroom, Gariel found a book laying on the nightstand.  Glancing at it, she realized it was one of Ela’s books.  The first one Haldir had brought back from Gondor for her.  Ela had mentioned she could not find it, finally leaving without it.  Gariel put it back where she found it.  She made sure there were linens in the bathing room and glanced around the large living quarters once more.  Satisfied all was in order, she started back down for her own home.

	When she finally reached the gate, Gariel was surprised to see Aniron sitting quietly on the front porch.  

	“Where is your uncle?” she asked.

	“Shhhh,” she said quietly, her finger to her lips.  “He is asleep.  He said we needed a nap, but I am not tired.”

	Gariel smiled at the child and went into the house.  She glanced at the empty sofa in the large family room.  Heading back for the garden, she happened to look in Ela’s room.  There, stretched out on the bed that was obviously too small for him, was Haldir.  Gariel decided that someone had to talk to him.

~*~*~*~*~



	Orophin came out through the house and into the garden.  Giving his wife a kiss of greeting, he dropped into his chair at the table.  Reaching over, he ruffled Aniron’s hair.

	“Ada!” she exclaimed.  “You are mussing my hair.  Nana, make him stop.”

	Gariel laughed at the child.  “I will fix it after supper; and then we can go to the gardens.  How does that sound?”

	Aniron settled down, appeased.  Several strands of light brown hair had escaped their braid.  

	“Good evening,” Orophin said to his brother.  “What brings you into the city?”

	“The usual,” Haldir replied.  “Reports to make.  Is there a need for me to visit the eastern marches?”

	“No.  I brought Celedien’s paperwork in with me.”

	“Good.  I hear Elldar is in Mirkwood again.”  He hid a small smile at Orophin’s dark look.  “What is the problem?  He is well able to take care of himself.  Moreover, Thranduil seems to enjoy his visits.  

	“Celedien finds too many reasons to send him.”

	“Orophin, Thranduil has cousins his age.  Where is he to find any here?”

	“I do not have to like it.  What if he decides to stay in Mirkwood?”

	Gariel held her breath.  This had been her greatest fear.  First Ela, and now Elldar leaving.  It was the reason she clung to Aniron so; life had become lonely for her.

	“He will return.  Mirkwood may have its charms, but it also has those spiders and whatever creeps out of the south.  And, he has ties here.  No, he will return.  Ask Rúmil.”

	“He is talking to Rúmil?”

	“They both talk to Rúmil.  Have you not noticed?”  Haldir glanced at his brother.  “Anytime either of them have had a problem, they go to him first.”  There was no need to say who “they” were.  Haldir never mentioned her by name; it was always “her” or “they” if Elldar was included.  

	Dinner continued in silence.  Finishing up, Aniron announced she was ready to visit the gardens.  Gariel picked up their dishes and placed them in the sink, leaving the men to do their own.  She gave Orophin a meaningful look before leaving.  They had talked about this subject many times.  It was time to move Haldir in the direction he was not aware he had been heading in for several years now.

	After Gariel left, Orophin just stared at his brother.  Haldir finally took note and laid down his fork.  
Nothing was said for several minutes.

	“What?” asked the elder of the two.  “You only look at me that way when you disapprove of something I have done.”

	“It is not what you have done, but rather what you have failed to do.”

	“And what is it I am supposed to have failed doing?”

	“Ela.”

	“Ela?” he replied, surprised.  “What has she to do with anything?”

	“How long are you both going to continue this little dance?  You have wandered around, lost, for longer than I care to remember.  You participate in nothing social.  And you find far too many reasons to go to Imladris.  Frankly, I wonder what the girl sees in you.”

	“What do you mean, “sees in me”?  I was not aware she saw anything.”

	“I have watched you watch her for years.  Even before it would be deemed proper.”

	“Well, she needed someone to watch over her.  She is headstrong and reckless.  She does not think ahead.”  Haldir was very firm on his convictions of the girl.  She had been hurt too many times. 

	“Do you not see?  She has looked up to you from the beginning.  She has taken your words to heart.  When you criticized, she tried harder.  When you praised, which by the way was far too seldom, she glowed.  Are you really the only one who does not see?”

	“We have fought since she first came here.  We have been on opposite side of every discussion in which we ever engaged.”  Haldir was becoming angry.  He stood and started pacing.  “She defied orders and almost died.  How could I ever trust her to stay out of danger?  We are not suited and it would never work.”  His last words were only marginally below a shout.

	“What would not work?” asked Orophin.

	“Wedding.  It would not work!”

	“Who mentioned wedding?” his brother asked softly.

	Suddenly realising what he had said, Haldir sat back down heavily.  He covered his eyes with his hand, trying to brush away the words and thoughts he had uttered.

	“Then you have considered it?”  Orophin never raised his voice.  “How long?”

	“Oh, Vala, I have thought about it for years.  I have raised all the excuses I can find;  I am too old, she is too young; she is too far above me, and I too far below her; her brother threatened to take matters into his own hands if I let her come to harm; what would she do out on the marches; I cannot stay in the city.  The reasons are too numerous.  What do I possibly have to offer her?”

	“Brother, the girl is in love with you; has been for years.  That is why Rúmil never asked her.  He knew long ago that she would turn him down.  And the way I have seen you when she is around, I believe you at least care far more than you realize.”  He sat in silence, waiting for a reply.  “She would never tie you down, nor hold you back.  And she would follow you into the fires of Mordor, if you but asked.”

	Haldir looked up at him, bleakly.  “Do you really believe that?  That she would actually say yes?”

	“There is a way to find out.  Ask her.  See what she says.  If she says no, then you have only made a fool of yourself.  If yes, then you have your answer.  However, either way, you will not spend the rest of your life wondering; it is tearing you up now.  And, if you do not do something, she may; and you cannot predict where she will go.  She is ready to come home.  She is only waiting to see if this is home.  And that is up to you.”  Orophin sat back and waited.

	Haldir sat silent for many minutes.  It was odd, saying the things he had been thinking for so long.  He had been surprised that Orophin had said anything.  Their youngest brother had always been the most outspoken of the three.  Making up his mind to do something, he rose from the chair.

	“Tell Gariel thank you for supper.  I will return later.”  Without another word, he left the kitchen.  

	Orophin had a small smile on his lips.  As much as he had worried earlier about his brother’s interesting disinterest in Ela, he knew that things had changed.  She was older and able to care for herself.  One thing Ela had taught him: a daughter was not the same as a son.  He did not look forward to the day when Aniron was Ela’s age.


Chapter 4 - Chapter Four

Crossing the meadow where the horses were turned out, Ela whistled and grinned as a white horse came running.  It was a gift, as a colt, from a very grateful breeder for saving his daughter’s life.  She was assured that this horse was of the blood of the horses of the north, descended from Felaróf himself.  She had the papers to prove it, but was not as interested in that fact, as the one that he had beaten every horse put against him in a race.  It was rumoured among the men in the lower valleys that the horse was…well, some said cursed, some said blessed by the Valar.  Ela just attributed it to good breeding and a valiant heart.

	Exchanging greetings with the stable hands, Ela saddled her horse.  She had never given him a name.  He was just her horse.  None ever asked to ride him; nor would they have dared if she had offered.  He was gentle with her and tolerant of the handling of the grooms when she was not around.  He pranced around the common way in the large barn and settled when she spoke to him.  

	None understood the words she used.  Speculation said it was her mother’s tongue.    Who knew?  The girl was different, but of a nature that all loved and respected her.  The news of her ancestry had long since settled down.  She was no longer known as Ereinion Gil-Galad’s granddaughter.  Now she was Lady Elrénia, Lord Elrond’s daughter.  

  	Declining the offer of an escort, Ela swung up into the saddle.  Checking her seat, she walked the horse out of the barn.  When she was clear of the gates, she gave him his head and spoke for his ears alone.  Bunching his hindquarters under her, he bolted for the river crossing.  Reaching the narrowest part, he gathered himself and jumped the river.  Landing gracefully on the other bank, they quickly disappeared into the 
woods.

 
~*~*~*~*~*~*~


	Delandor watched the rider coming in.  It was a year now since he had seen him, but there was no mistaking who it was.  

	“Welcome, Haldir.  How was the journey?”  He stood by as the Marchwarden dismounted and brushed the dust from his clothes.

	“Dry.  It seems there has been no rain for weeks.  The plains are beginning to suffer.”

	“The rivers are down slightly.  Otherwise, things are well enough here.”

	“Have you heard from your son?”  Haldir always asked, but without the rancour that had once coloured the question.  

	“He is still to the north.  I heard that he had settled down, but since he does not write, I have no confirmation of that.  And your 
brothers?”

	“They fare well.  Orophin is in his dotage with his new daughter.  It seems he found something he did not know he missed.  And the girl is fair, and quite obedient.”  He looked down the river.  Delandor felt he was avoiding any glances towards the other end of the valley.

	“You are not expected,” the guard said, not unkindly.

	“No, I am not.  Nevertheless, I have messages for Lord Elrond.  So, it is best I deliver them.”  His reluctance was not lost on Delandor who grinned.  This would prove to be interesting.  



~*~*~



	Elrond looked up from his book when Erentil came to the door.  

	“Lord Elrond, Haldir of Lórien has arrived.  Will you see him?”

	“Certainly,” Elrond exclaimed, surprised.  It had been a year since Celeborn had sent messages.  With the growing unease to the east, he hoped that all was well.  He stood as the Marchwarden entered the library.

	“Lord Elrond,” Haldir greeted him, giving a slight bow.

	“Haldir.  This is unexpected.  Is there anything wrong?”

	“No, sir.  My Lord wanted you to see some reports that have come his way.  He is most concerned about rumours from the southeast.  He hopes you may shed some light upon what he has heard.”

	“I will see what I can do.  Are you here long?  Can you stay for supper?”

	Elrond was slightly amused by the discomfort playing across Haldir’s face.   So, the time had come.

	“I will stay the night, if you will allow.  My horse needs rest.”

	“You are very welcome.  Will you stay here, or across the valley?”

	“Here will suffice.  Now, if you will excuse me, I will see to my horse.”  Receiving a nod from Elrond, Haldir turned and went back through the house, heading for the stables below.   Descending the stairs outside, he came to the bottom of the hill where his horse waited.  Heading towards the stables, he glanced across the wide valley.  He could make out the house sitting back among the trees next to the falls.  Changing his mind, he mounted and started to the north.  

	Elestra come out of the house, having seen the rider from the window.  She hid a small smile.  Seating herself on the swing, she waited for the horse to stop.

	“Greetings, Haldir of Lórien.”

	He bowed to her.  “And to you, Lady Elestra.  Felicitations from my Lord and Lady, and from Gariel.  She wishes me to convey her envy.”

	“It is conveyed.  Can I help you?”  

	“I am looking for Ela.  Is she here?”

	“Did you look in the village?  It is customary that she would be there during the day.”

	“No,” he said.  “I had hoped she would be here.”

	“Well, it is well you did not waste a trip.  As it happens, she is riding today.  She and another went up to the meadow.”

	“Who is the other?”  Did Elestra denote a twinge of something in his voice?

	“Her cousin.  You remember Cabel?”

	From the look on his face, he had not forgotten.  Ela had gotten over her dislike for her people rather quickly.  At least, she had for one of them.  It was amazing how fast the friendship had grown between them, once her initial reluctance had worn off.  

	“I think I will take a walk up to the meadow,” he said, nonchalantly.  “May I leave my horse here?”

	“Of course.  I will have the gardener take him to the stables.  You have no need to worry about the horse.”  Unfortunately, her tone made him to believe he may have something to worry about up in the meadow.

	“Thank you,” he said, bowing and turning for the river.



~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~



Caught in the midst of the maelstrom created by the wind, the lone rider goaded her mount into greater effort.  Reaching a point midway across the valley floor, the rider pulled the horse into a skidding stop.  Jumping from the saddle, she threw the reins over the horse’s head and shooed him off.  As he turned and ran, the figure ripped the cloak off and tossed it away.  The lack of the voluminous cape revealed the frame and curves of a small elleth.  Quickly turning back the way she had come, she drew the bow from her back.  Breathing deeply, she faced up the valley.  Tearing down the meadow on foot, carrying a sword, was an Orc.  Ela carefully drew an arrow and fitted it to the bowstring.  Drawing it back to its full draw, she let it fly.  It veered woefully to the side of the Orc.  The girl quickly drew her sword.  Throwing down his sword in disgust, the Orc started yelling.

	“NO!  NO, NO, and NO!  Why do you do that?”

	She stood still as he approached.  Try as she might, she could not suppress the grin that spread across her face.  The grin finally erupted into laughter.

	“It was closer that time.”

	“I have seen you take down a coney at twice that distance.  And yet, you cannot hit me?”

	“Are you that ready to test the Valar?” she asked.  She turned at the nuzzling at her neck.  “Hello,” she said to the horse.  He blew his nose and looked disdainfully at the creature with his companion.  

	“What if you are accosted by another Orc?  Then what? Have you considered that?”  His tone implied he was not done berating her.

	“Well, I will just have to charm him, as I did you.”  She bent over to pick up the bow she had so unceremoniously tossed earlier.

	“You did not charm me.  You bewitched me.  I truly think you are a witch.  You spent too much time with that other one.”

	“You mean the Lady?”  She continued at his nod.  “She taught me much, but she did not teach me to bewitch Orcs.  I rather think she would be appalled that I did it.  Your kind is not looked on well by others.”

	“Hmph,” was his reply.

	She looked over at the Orc as he bent to pick up her cloak.  He was cleaner than were most men.  He had come a long way since the day she had found him in the upper meadows, bleeding to death from a sword wound.  After her initial loathing had worn off, the healer in her had taken over.  For two days, she had tended him.  By then, the damage was done; she had formed a bond.  It was no wonder she could not hit him 
with her arrows.  Moreover, she prayed she would never be put to the test of choosing between him and another.  She could no sooner shoot him 
than Lord Elrond.  

	“Drakar, you know I do not feel that way,” she said, batting her eyes at him.

	“Stop it,” he growled, placing the cloak around her shoulders.  “You always resort to those stupid human ways.”

	“Well, fine.  If you are going to be that way, I am going home.  Ada expects me for supper, anyway.”  She grabbed the horse’s reins.  Swinging up, she looked down on this creature; most feared by all of Arda; this creature she should have left to die.

	“You will be careful, will you not?”  Her voice carried no laughter, now.

	“Your concern is wasted on me,” he growled.  “Go back to your safe life and do not worry for me.”

	“But, I will,” she laughed.  Turning the horse around, she waved as she headed back down the valley.  He could hear her laughter until she reached the woods at the lower end.

	Shaking his head, he started back up to the heights.  Whatever had possessed her to befriend him, an Orc; a misshapen elf; a tortured soul?  He could admit to not a little confusion.  From the time he had awoken from his stupor, she had fascinated him.  There was no going back.  He could never climb back down that ladder into the chaos of his earlier life.  He had learned contentment at being on his own.  She was taming the created beast in him.  She had already done much.  And for what?  What did she mean to gain from all of this?

	He had taken a chance and crept down to the lower heights once.  Following her progress down to the vast valley where she lived, he had come as close as he dared to her home.  Did she not realize what she risked by association with him?  What if her father found out?  He knew who Lord Elrond was.  He knew the stories of his past deeds, of the wars and battles he had fought.  More importantly, he knew about the ruler’s lady, what had been done to her.  He had had nothing to do with it, but how did the girl suppose he would feel about her befriending an Orc?  He had taken her in and given her everything; a name; a family; a home. If he found out that she was friends with one of the despised race, it would not bode well for her.  Strangely, he found he cared enough to be bothered by that.  What had the cursed girl done to him?

~*~*~*~*~*~*~


	Ela rode in easy solitude.  She was not watching where the horse was going.  She was instead thinking on her birthday party five years ago.  It had been beautiful.  Her brothers could not make it, but Arwen was visiting her father.  The dinner party had been small, but far from quiet.  They had celebrated in the back gardens, just her family, closest friends, and the servants.  Dalgren was very upset to have strangers in her kitchen, but Ela had insisted that everyone be present for the evening.  She smiled thinking back on the dancing and singing that had gone on later.  She had been surprised that Haldir had shown up earlier in the morning.  It seemed he was there more than usual lately.  She would have to think on that.

	A flash down the mountain caught her eye.  Oh, as if just the thought…  She dismounted and gave the horse a push to hide.  He looked at her and shook his head.  Without watching to see where he went, she began creeping down the path.  

	The man made his way through the dark forest.  The light of day but dimly pierced the heavy growth.  He slowly crouched down and surveyed the path ahead.  He knew what awaited him.  It was the always the same: a seemingly easy hunt, only to turn into a trap.  Backing slowly into the brush to the side of the trail, he worked around the dense undergrowth.  A faint tinkling sound caught his ear.  Finally, he had won.  Carefully placing his feet so as not to make a sound, he came upon what he sought.  Bow drawn and arrow notched, he triumphantly stood to claim his prey.  His smile faltered as he saw what had made the noise.  A string with a small metal ring hung from a branch.  Attached to the ring were tiny metal bells.

	“How long are we to play this game?” he asked softly to the empty air.

	“Until you win, or forfeit,” came a softer reply.

	He glanced around, settling his gaze into the tree above him.  Although the body attached to the voice was not visible, the arrow pointed at his head was.

	“Come down,” he said.

	“Do you forfeit?” was the answer.

	“Not to you!”  He watched as the small form dropped from the branches above.  She brushed herself off and went over to the string hanging down.  Retrieving the small gold ring, she placed it in her ear.  Shaking her head, he could hear again the soft tinkle that had drawn him into her trap.  Turning, she looked up at him.

	“You know this is not what I meant when I told you I would find you.  Where is your cousin?” he asked, glancing around for Cabel.

	“And yet, it is effective.  I think the score is now four to zero. You owe me a gold coin.”  She stood waiting.  “And Cabel rode on home.  I only went to the higher reaches with him.

	“It is juvenile to bet on this.”  All his intentions to speak to her had fled.  He could not discern the subtle difference the game had taken.  

	“And yet, you continue to do it.  Now, unless you would like to up the stakes, give me my coin.”

	He frowned as he handed her a coin.  She made a big show of checking to ensure it was real, and then stashed it in her pouch.

	“Why do you insist on this?” he asked her.  She whistled for the horse and turned to face him. 

	“What would you rather have?” she asked.

	“When are you coming home?” he returned, changing the subject.

	“I am home,” she said, surprised.  

	“I mean to Lórien.  When will you return?”

	“Is there any hurry?  I am not finished here.”

	“No, I suppose not.  Rúmil misses you, as does Gariel and Orophin.”  He dropped to the ground under a large oak.

	Sitting down beside him, she glanced at his face.  “And you do not?”

	“I am through playing games with you, Ela.  You enjoy them entirely too much.”

	“That is what Ada always says.  Now, what should our next wager be?  Would you give me the fences, should I win and return?”

	“That will not happen.  You would have to content yourself with the city guards.”

	“Will you never tire of saying that?  It is getting old.”  She turned and sat back against the tree.  “Ada does not mind.  Lord Celeborn said I might.  Even the Lady does not object.  Only you.  One would think you do not like me.”  She glanced up to gauge his reaction.

	“I like you as well as any trying, disobedient child.”

	“Oh, one misstep and I am branded a fool for life.  You gave Meliel permission to go.”

	“Yes, well that is because Del whines more than do you.”

	“That is no answer,” she complained.

	“It is the only one you are getting.”

	She sat in silence.

	“What if I do not return?”

	“Rúmil will be upset, as will Gariel.”

	“And you?  Will you be upset?”

	“Hardly.  You are a thorn in my side.  I doubt I will even miss you.”  His racing heart belied his words.  

	She turned back to him.  She gently laid a hand over his heart; he felt a jolt.  Moving quickly from her, he stood up.

	“What did you do?” he demanded.

	She looked up at him standing there.  She should not have done that.  However, she had to know.  Slowly standing up, she looked up into his eyes.

	“What do you fear?”  At her soft words, unease settled in his chest.  He vaguely remembered a question not unlike this one, asked years ago.  She continued, “I am no longer a girl.  By either people, I am counted an adult.”  

	Looking at her, he could not disagree.  He found himself drawn into her eyes; those damnable blue eyes.  He felt out of control.  To his shock, he found himself leaning down closer to her.  There was no pulling away on her part.  Time stood still for aeons as they came closer.  He felt a heat rising from her skin as their lips almost connected.  

	That is, until a large hairy head nudged between them.  The horse nickered to her.  She drew back in disgust.

	“Sadron?  Your name is Sadron?” she exclaimed, raising her arms and slapping them back against her hips.  “After all this time, NOW you decide to tell me your name?  And this could not have waited until we got home?”  She paced furiously.  “Do you have any idea how long I have waited for this moment.”  She halted abruptly.  Horror flooded her face as she realized that he was still standing there, listening to her words.  She 
turned and stalked away.

	Taking the horse’s reins, Haldir gave a slight jerk to show his irritation at the interruption and followed her.

	“What do you mean you have waited for this moment?”

	She turned to face him, hands on her hip.  Her breathing had slowed down and she was not as flushed.  

	“What do you think I meant?  I am as tired of the games as are you.  How long do you think I am willing to wait?”

	He backed up a step.  Her words were spoken softly, but carried steel behind them.  Words failed him.  

	She sighed in exasperation.  “Come on.  It is late.  I promised Ada I would be home for supper.”  She motioned him up on the horse.

	“Will he take both of us?” Haldir asked.  He was not as sure as she was about this.  He avoided riding when possible.  Moreover, he knew the horse.  

	“He has no choice.  He will do it.”  She glared at Sadron who amazingly had the grace to look chastised.  He allowed the ellon to mount without any trouble.  He shifted his stance slightly as Ela grabbed Haldir’s proffered hand and swung up behind him.  “Just let him have his head.  He knows where to go.  And hold on.”

	There was nothing said for quite a ways back down the mountain.  Ela was silent, trying to figure out if she had pushed things too far, too soon.  Haldir was busy thinking about the warmth of her against his back.  He remembered little things from the past that had haunted him:  the fall in the woods, carrying her back to Caras Galadhon, the lurch when he thought she and Del were dead, a simple act of buttoning a dress, even a dance when her feet had not quite caught up with her grace.  He had had all the signs but was just figuring them out.  Meanwhile, he concentrated on enjoying the ride.

	At the bottom of the faint trail, Sadron picked up his pace.  For a half-mile, they travelled at an easy canter through the lower trees.  Then came upon an open place where Sadron shot off.  Haldir made a frantic effort to regain control.

	“Let him go!” he heard shouted from behind him.  “He knows what to do!”

	Haldir was not so sure, when he saw their goal was the river.  Although narrow, he knew it was deep and full of large boulders, and Sadron was heading right for it.  Then he lost interest of where they were going.  He felt her arms tighten around him and found nothing else mattered.  She leaned against him and he instinctually leaned into Sadron as the horse gathered himself and leaped across the river.  Landing on 
the other bank, Sadron kept running.  Haldir could hear the joyous laughter behind him as the horse tore across the meadow.  Not even stopping at the gates, but sailing over them, Sadron seemed intent on delivering his riders right into the barn.  Ela finally spoke to him and he slowed to a walk.  They entered the barn amid the stares of stable hands who knew only to well that no one else rode that horse.

	She slid off the back of the horse, landing gracefully.  As soon as her companion dismounted, she started undoing the girth and barrel straps.  Pulling the saddle from Sadron’s back, she hung it on the post beside his stall.  Placing the bridle on the hook above the saddle, she grabbed a couple of brushes, tossing one to Haldir.  In silence, he brushed down the right side of the horse, lost in his thoughts, listening to her 
croon and prattle to the animal.  Finishing up, she walked out to the paddock, Sadron following like a puppy.  

	They stood watching the horse roll in the short grass.  As he leaned against the rails of the paddock, Haldir finally understood why he had come.  His restlessness was her.  She was the reason he was drawn back here.  

	“Ela,” he said softly.

	She looked up at him, a smile lighting her face.  She waited.  Was it possible, he was at a loss for words?  She would have laughed, had he not looked so serious.  Laying a hand on his arm, she glanced at her horse.

	“I must prepare for dinner,” she said softly.  “I will see you later.”  Trailing her hand down his arm, she turned and walked away.

	Walking along the road, she thought back over the ride down the mountain.  Well, she had given him something to dwell on; it would be interesting to know how he fared.  



~*~*~*~*~*~


Chapter 5 - Chapter Five

Ela shook out her damp hair.  Sitting before the mirror in her small room, she combed out her hair.  It was cut it so that it came only to the small of her back.  Deftly plaiting it into two braids that were then wound around her head, she finished and went to the wardrobe, pulling out a simple brown dress.  Her gown for dinner was already in her old room at her father’s house.  She went out into the kitchen.  Elestra stood waiting for her.  

	“Are you ready, child?”

	“Yes, grandmother.  Shall we go?  Elrond will be pacing as it is.”

	“How was your ride?”  Elestra could not resist a little prodding.  Ela had returned, alone, from the stables.  
She had said nothing about what may have happened up the mountain.

	“It was… interesting.  I rode with Cabel as far as Sunrise Peak, and then came back.  The horse finally told 
me his name.  What happened here while I was gone?”

	Elestra picked up her cloak.  Turning back, she studied her granddaughter.  The girl was giving nothing 
away.  Sighing, she reached for the door.

	“Nothing,” she finally said.  “The day was quiet and peaceful.  Come, your father is waiting.”



~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~



	Dinner was uneventful.  Haldir spun for them tales of Lothlórien and Glorfindel regaled them with songs of 
long ago.  While all laughed and enjoyed the telling, Ela was quiet.  Her thoughts were back on the mountain.  What 
she had felt confirmed her suspicions.  There were feelings there; but did he know that yet?  If she pushed, would he 
draw back?  

	“Ela!”  She heard her name, and from the tone, it was not the first time he had said it.

	“I apologize, Ada.  Did you ask me something?”

	“No, child, you just looked very pensive.”

	“I suppose I am just tired from the ride this afternoon.”  She took the arm he offered after pulling out her 
chair.  Glancing at her dress, he knew why she loved the blue so much.  It set off her eyes and sat well against her 
skin.  He playfully tried to brush the freckles from her shoulder.

	“Do not think I have not tried that.  It does not work,” she said, laughing.  She let him lead her to the Hall.  
Dalgren had already poured drinks for everyone, including just tea for her.  

	Ela sat back and drank her tea, just listening to the music played under the conversation.  With everyone’s 
attention on the topic, no one noticed her slip out to the terrace.  She stood in the moonlight staring up at the stars.  It 
was the first time in over a week that the thin, hazy clouds had not hidden the heavenly lights.  She did not turn at the 
presence joining her.

	“Beautiful, are they not?”  His soft voice was barely above a whisper.  

	“All the more for their shyness this last week.”  She turned and leaned against the railing.

	He was silent.  She could feel his hesitation as he prepared himself for something.

	“What did you mean earlier, that you had waited for the moment?”

	“I meant, I have been waiting for you to make up your mind.  Did you ride all the way here just to deliver 
messages?”  He struggled to hear her words.

	“No.  Do you suggest what I hear you suggest?”  His tone was only slightly condescending.  He did not 
appreciate that she was taking the initiative.

	“I do.  Do you have objections?”

	“Have you considered the difference in our ages?  What you are thinking is not an easy step.”

	“Are you saying that it would not work, that I am too young?  Hmm, how old was Celebrian when she met 
Elrond?  And Galadriel when Celeborn came into her life?  If age is your only argument, you had best come up with 
another.”

	He saw she was not going to let it go.  He looked into her eyes.  They seemed to glow with a light of their 
own.  Before he could think more on it, he leaned down.  There was no resistance.  Ela settled back against the railing.  The first touch of his lips sent a current through her that she had felt only twice before.  The few seconds seem to last for hours.  As he pulled back, she could see his eyes locked on hers.

	“Well?” she asked, holding her breath.

	“Not bad, for a girl.”  He managed to hide the smile from his lips, but it was there, in his voice.

	“A girl?  A girl!” she said, slightly menacing.  “You think I am a girl?”  She pushed him aside and made to go 
back into the house.  As she passed him, he grabbed her arm and swung her around to him.  The second kiss was as 
passionate as the first had been chaste.  To his surprise, he found her just as insistent.  An overheard conversation 
from years ago confused him as to who was in charge.

	Pulling back, she looked at him.  “Was that the kiss of a girl?” she whispered.  

	When he could speak again, he had questions.  “What of you and Rúmil?”

	“We have both told you that it would never happen.  You were the only one unable to accept it.  We are 
just friends.  Better than most, perhaps, but nothing more.”

	He sat down.  “How long have you felt this way?”   His voice was barely audible.

	“Do you remember when I came to live here, and you shouted at me for touching you?  I loved you from 
the time we met.  Maybe not as now, but I was always drawn.”

	“But, all the disagreements, the arguments.  What of them?”

	“Well, I was a child.  And later, I knew you would win most of the arguments, but I was not about to make 
it easy.”

	They sat there for many minutes.  Finally, she stirred.

	“What of you?  You have said nothing yet.”

	“Things in Lórien are not the same since you left.  Had any asked why, I could not have told them.  
However, now, I think I can answer. I have had much time to think.  I have missed you.  And, you…have you thought 
this through?”

	“What is there to think about it?  I have always known what I want.  It was just a matter of waiting until 
you were ready.”

	“Have you considered your heritage?  What of your mother’s people?  You yourself have said they will insist you return.  Moreover, do you not think you can make a better alliance?  Thranduil is still hoping you will consider his son.”

	“Legolas?  Sorry, but I have made up my mind.  That is, unless you are disinclined.  In which case, I 
suppose the Indrel would welcome me back.”  Her light, teasing tone belied the apprehension she felt.  What if he did reject her?  She was suddenly terrified to find out the answer.  

	“The Indrel will never get the chance.  I am not sure if love is the right word for how I feel, but you do draw 
me.”

	“Would you give yourself the chance to find out?  You have always been so careful, Haldir.  You never take 
risks.  Is love not worth the risk?  I know of your mother and your fears.  I am not your mother.  I would not desert you or your children.  You will never have to fear that.”

	“How…?

	“Do you not think Rúmil knows how you feel?  We did not spend all that time together pretending.  We 
talked.  It is not as if it was any secret.  I asked the Lady.  She was very kind and gentle explaining what happened.  
You have nothing to fear.”

	He looked up at the mountain.  He looked back into her eyes.  Those blue eyes.

	“You understand what our life would be like?”

	“I grew up around that life.  I am rather observant.  If I am not allowed the marches as a warden, you will 
surely allow that I may be there as a healer.  Glordinel has no need of me in the city.  That is my one request.  Do not 
deny me.”

	“I cannot deny you anything,” he whispered.  “Will you exchange rings with me?”

	“I thought you would never ask.  Of course I will.  However, this is the easy part.  You still have to talk to 
my father.”

	“There you are!”  Elrond strode out onto the terrace.  Haldir smiled softly to hear Ela’s mild curse.  He leaned back to see what developed.

	Putting on a smile she did not feel, Ela turned to Elrond.  “I am sorry, Ada.  Did you miss us?”

	“Only just now.  You were so quiet during dinner.  Ah, the stars, they have finally come out.”  He stood 
staring at the sky.  

	Elrond stood.  He was well aware he interrupted something; and he could guess what it was.  He sighed 
softly.  It is time, I suppose, he thought, to talk to the both of them.  It seemed she truly was destined to follow this 
path.  He looked toward the heavens, praying silently that it was the correct way.

	 

~*~*~*~*~*~





	Long after all the guests had departed, Haldir went to the library.  He had seen Ela and Elestra home, and 
then returned to the house on the hill.  He had one purpose: this needed settled.  He did not think that Elrond would 
bless any arrangements between them.  Ela was too well placed among her own people.  On the one hand, all those 
she knew were well aware of the Indrel’s stance towards the Elves.  On the other, even if she chose to downplay her parentage, there were those who would not.  Moreover, and he realized he was running out of hands, he, of all 
people, knew that once Ela had made up her mind, there were precious few who could convince her to change it.  The girl had a knack for getting her way.  Even to her detriment.   

	Knocking at the door of the library, Haldir entered at a word from its occupant.  He went in to find Elrond 
seated at his desk.  A quick glance showed the ever-present Erestor standing at a window, studying the mountain 
behind the house.  This was not going to be as easy as anticipated.

	“Lord Elrond?”  He managed to sound calm, though his heart was racing and his mouth dry.

	“Yes, Haldir.  You wanted to see me?”  Elrond laid the papers he had been shuffling to the side.  He did not 
want to have this conversation.  It reminded him all to well that none of his own children had come this far in any 
relationships.  It was odd that the youngest of his charges would be the first to arrive at this point.

	“I have come to speak to you about Ela.”  He stopped, not sure what to say.

	“I spoke to her several days ago.  She knew you would come.”

	“It seems she knows my heart more than do I.  We discussed a future.  Ela is ready to settle down and 
wishes an alliance between our houses.  I have come to ask your advice.”

	“In what matter?”  Elrond could not resist a mild teasing.  If this man wanted his cousin, he would have to 
earn the right.

	“I do feel something for her, although I am not sure it is the same as what she feels.  I know that I have 
missed her being in Lórien.  My unease lays in the importance her mother’s people place in her.  She is noble born.  Will she be happy with me?”

	“Haldir, have you ever known her to not know her mind?  She told me she was ready and that you would 
be asking.  Now, are you asking?”  Elrond kept his face straight.  It was interesting to see the Marchwarden at a loss 
for words.  

	Haldir glanced around the room, his gaze lighting on Erestor, Elrond’s closest friend and his advisor.  He 
knew that not only would Elrond have something to say, but so would the man who had taught Ela much in her years in Imladris.   She still held him in very high esteem, asking his advice on many matters.  Haldir had no doubt this matter would warrant his input.  Not only would he need Elestra’s approval, but he would require it of these two, also.  And, should either of them say no, Ela would show intense disapproval, but would not disobey either of them.  He was sure… Well, fairly sure.  He decided that he did not want to find out who would win such a battle.

	“I am.  Lord Elrond, Lord Erestor, I seek an alliance with Lady Elrénia, daughter of Dorlandad.  It is my 
intention to wed her.  Do you approve?”

	He waited for the arguments and list of reasons why they would say no.  He knew that he had Lady 
Elestra’s approval, but he was not sure why she gave it.  He knew how Ela felt.  He had spoken to Lord Celeborn and spent many hours with Lady Galadriel.  She had tried to prepare him for what could be a difficult joining, but could not explain why.  It seemed she had promises to keep to Ela.  It baffled Haldir, but as the Lady had encouraged him to pursue this course, he would trust her judgement.  Even his youngest brother had been supportive; well, it was more like relieved that he had finally come to his senses.  Only Orophin seemed reticent.  He was not sure what caused it, but Gariel had laughed it away and said that it was simply over protectiveness.  

	“You know that I have come to love Ela as my own daughter.”  At Haldir’s nod, Elrond continued, “I would 
not want to see anything hurt her, ever.  As I am sure Galadriel has told you, there are hard times ahead for her.  She will need someone strong and true to guide her through the trials to come.  Are you that man?”

	“She believes that I am.  If she believes in me that strongly, how can I not also believe?  There is nothing I 
would not do for her.  Nothing I would not do to protect her.”

	Elrond looked over to Erestor.  At his slight nod, Elrond turned back to Haldir.  

	“Then, as Ela has stated her desires, as have you, I give consent.  Who will stand for you?”  When the 
answer came, Haldir realized that this had been discussed and already decided.   

	“My Lord and Lady have graciously granted me the honour of standing for me.”

	“Then tomorrow I will see the both of you.  Get some rest, Haldir.  You look ready to fall over.”  It took a 
moment for Haldir to realize he was joking.  He nodded and left the library, closing the door behind him.

	“Well,” sighed Elrond.  “It is done.”

	“Yes, it is,” agreed Erestor.  “Now, how do you let go?”

	“Indeed,” returned the Lord of Imladris.  “Indeed.”



~*~*~*~*~





	Haldir was up early the next morning.  He carefully dressed in his spare uniform.  He knew that the 
occasion warranted much finer attire, yet he had always shunned the robes and finery that so suited others.  He was 
not about to change now.  Checking the mirror one last time, he walked out of the room.  Treading with his 
characteristic silence, he moved down the stairs and through the house.   It seemed he was the only one up.  Letting 
himself out onto the terrace, he fairly skipped down the outer stairway.  The house across the valley in sight, he settled into the ground-eating pace that served the Galadhrim.  	

	The walk gave him time to think on many things.  There were many preparations to make.  They would 
need a house.  Suddenly, the conversation with Rúmil concerning living among the trees came back.  He chuckled to 
himself at the thought.  He had sworn never to wed.  Now, he had taken a step that would be most difficult to retrace, had he wanted to do so.  No, his thoughts looked to the future.  He had not lived with a woman since his mother’s fading.  He had often wondered what it would be like.  Oh, Orophin seemed to thrive from the experience, but he was of a different mettle than either of his brothers.  A sudden notion struck him.  If they wed, there would be children.  Would he act as sodden as Orophin?  The idea made him uncomfortable.  Children were well and fine, in their place, but he envisioned the future child-free; at least for a long while.  There was no need to rush into anything.

	His reverie was disrupted by the realization that he had arrived at her house.  Would she demand as grand a house in Lórien?  Talans were simple affairs.  And Gariel’s house was not much more than a talan on the ground, albeit a bit more substantial.  Surely she would not expect the finery that adorned her father’s house, would she?  The thoughts swirling around in his mind faded as he stepped up on the porch.  The swing was a nice touch.  He could see them sitting there after a long day’s labours, satisfied from a good meal.  He stopped.  Ela could not cook.  He had tasted her efforts.  Bland and simple was the only thing she did well.  

	He was brought back to the present by the opening of the door.  He forgot all of his fears when he saw 
her.  She was wearing a simple dress of light blue.  It did not go quite to her feet.  Good.  He remembered her opinion of clothing.  She had chosen a dress that was not, in her estimation, formal.  It would suit, but only for day use.  He was reassured by her choice.  Somehow, he realized that she wore it for him; to set him at ease.  Why did he doubt her, or himself?

	“Good morning,” she said.  “Have you eaten?  We were just sitting down.  Grandmother must have known 
you were coming, she set the table for three.”

	He shook his head.  “I would like to join you, very much.”  He followed her into the large living room.  
Glancing around, he noticed that although every thing was finely made, there was nothing superfluous in the room.  The large sofas were grouped around the fireplace and there was a small gaming table across the room.  There were 
shelves that held quite a few books and a cabinet he knew contained liquors.  Besides a large worn carpet on the floor, there was nothing else.  He was relieved.  No finery to transport back to Lórien.  

	The dining room showed the same sparseness.  The large table and chairs were the centrepiece of the 
room.  Along one wall was a large cabinet for dishes.  It contained a set of expensive dinnerware brought from the 
western seacoast, a present from Elrohir and Elladan for her housewarming and fortieth birthday.  A low serving stable stood against another wall contained flatware from Gondor.  A fine set of silverware she had traded for; Haldir had brought it himself, while in the southern kingdom on business.  The outside wall was made of glass and let in the 
afternoon sunlight.  

	Haldir went into the kitchen where Elestra was pouring tea.  She glanced up as he came through the door.  
Something in the look he gave her set her at ease.  

	Ela waited until he had pulled her chair out, then sat down.  Picking up her napkin, she indicated that he 
should start eating.  Half-way through emptying his plate, he made an off-hand comment on the quality of the food.

	“Thank you,” Ela said softly.

	Looking up in surprise, Haldir said, “You cooked this?  When did you learn to cook?”

	She grinned at him.  “I do not spend all of my time at Melkin’s or reading.  Dalgren figured as I was in her 
kitchen so much, I might as well learn something.  Trust me, it was not easy.  I had less trouble delivering twins last 
year than learning to bake bread.  I had the punching part down; it was the timing and baking that seemed beyond 
me.  Cooking is just not one of my better skills.  I am better at getting the coney than I am at preparing it for a meal.”

	“It seems I have much to learn about you.  Maybe I have the wrong Ela.  Where did you hide that 
headstrong child?”

	“Oh, she is still here.  I have just replaced rebellion with prudence and biding my time.  And my time will 
come.  Are you sure you are up for it?”

	Elestra quietly sat back and observed the two of them.  She had seen it years ago; they did suit each 
other.  Ela had a fire that smouldered deep below the surface.  When it erupted, it would be a volcano.  Haldir had the strength to help her contain that fire.   He would be the only one she would let control her; and it would be through love, not will.  

 Ela was more like her grandfather than she was anyone else.  Elestra could see that; the careful preparations for the future; the desire to help others; the determination to set right wrongs.   Moreover, maybe Dorlandad was more like his father than she had realized.  He had taken great chances, wedding Ceria.  Risk all for another and paid the ultimate price.  Elestra felt that she could finally withdraw, knowing her son would someday join his parents.  She missed the love of her life.  Three thousand years had not diminished the emotions she still felt when dwelling upon her early years.  She fervently prayed that Ela would know that same joy; and that it would last far longer than had her own.

	Haldir grinned back at Ela.  “I have fought Orcs and Men.  Do you think I am not up to it?”

	“Well, you have managed quite well, so far.”  She examined her fingernails, nonchalantly.   

	“Get up,” he said, laughing.  “We have an appointment with your father.”  

	“Did you speak with him last night?” she asked.  His smile dimmed a little at her sober tone.

	“I did.”  He ran his hand down her cheek, the first sign of physical attraction he had ever shown her.  “You 
have no need to worry.  If this is what you want, then you will have it.”

	“And what do you want?”

	“Truthfully?”  At her nod, he continued.  “I find that the idea is growing on me.  Maybe it is something I 
wanted but never aspired to attaining.”  Both had forgotten Elestra, and neither noticed her quietly withdraw from the room.  For an eternity, they gazed into each other’s eyes.  A bell tolling from the village down the valley broke the spell.

	Haldir stood, taking Ela’s hand and pulling her up.  Leaning down, he kissed her gently.

	After a moment, she grinned and said, “I hope you plan to do better than that in the future.”  She turned 
and left for her bedroom, leaving him standing.  She could hear him chuckling behind her.  Oh, she thought, could she 
wait a whole year?


~*~*~*~*~


Chapter 6 - Chapter Six

Ela turned her horse back towards the bridge. Smiling to herself, she turned the last bend that brought her in sight of the guards. Now, the difficult part: she had three months to settle affairs here, and then she was off to Lórien to get things ready there. The last week had been hard; the last ten minutes had been harder. 
She glanced down at the silver ring circling her finger. It was slightly wider than usual to accommodate the butterflies circling it. She knew by the craftsmanship who had made it. Dorga would merit a visit as soon as she had a chance. 
Dinner last night had been much more boisterous than usual. No one was surprised by the announcement. Even Dalgren knew. There were special dishes and favourite deserts. An old bottle of wine from the back of the wine cellar had supplied the toast. Elrond would not say where the wine came from, but the quality was above even the average served at special feasts. Only Erestor knew how long those particular bottles had been stored down there. And he only suspected their origin.

After the meal, Elrond had stood and announced that there would be a wedding. Dalgren had wanted to start listing the things needed, right away. Elrond had laughed had told her a year was plenty of time; that is what you think, she had replied, huffily. 

The wedding was set for summer, the following year. Ela remembered little of what went on after dinner. There were congratulations given and accepted. The evening went on for hours. Long after midnight, most of the guest had gone. Ela stood on the terrace, looking up at the stars. Such a beautiful night! She hoped it was a portent of the future. A presence behind her brought her back to the present. Without turning, she sighed and spoke. “I am not sorry I made the promise, but I am glad I was able to keep it.” The hand on her shoulder was reassuring.
“I wish there had never been a reason for the promise.”

“Well, the need is long gone. I am well able to handle the problem, should it arise again. You would think after thirty 
years they would cease their attempts.” She shook her head. “They are a most headstrong people.”

“And you are not?” Elrond asked, chuckling. “You have made your mind clear since the day my sons found you. My 
relief was that you were not heavy handed about it.”

“If I had been, Lord Erestor would have just piled on more studies. I did not have time to be heavy handed.”

“Indeed, you were kept quite busy.” He paused. “Are you sure this is the right path for you? Have you really thought 
on what you abandon?”

She turned to look at him. “I do not feel I am abandoning anything. Those people are weak if they think only I can 
save them. They are strong and healthy. They could just find another to rule. I am not interested. I have all I desire 
where I am and no desire to sit beside a husband who only wants me for what I gain him. Theirs is a way that will 
not long last. I do not see them staying long in this land. It allows too much freedom for their women. Cabel told me 
that he has heard rumours that they may withdraw, try to re-establish their lands east of Harad.

“Cabel tells me that we are not the only ones to escape. He knows of a handful spread throughout Eriador. It seems 
that my mother’s people feel more of an affinity with the Elves than any other race in this land. My mother wed an 
Elf; his settled with the Dunedain and is another that I know of in the north. And, although Cabel has not the ability 
to heal or the gift to control animals, he does work wonders with the land.”

“Cabel is an able man. He does not show this disregard for women that your uncle and his men show.” Elrond looked 
out over the dark valley. “How is his family?”

“Well,” she laughed, “he is about to find out if he can deliver a baby. Lutheliel is now at four months. He has asked 
me to come up and guide him, but I do not think that will be possible, now. Which brings me to another topic—with 
the drought in the north and lack of rain even here, he is having trouble with his crops. Even with his hand at 
growing, he is not sure of harvesting enough to get through the winter. I am thinking of giving him leave to use my 
house, with your permission, of course.”

“Cabel and his family are welcome in Imladris. I told him that before. But if he has your house, where will you stay?” 
There was a coyness to his words. Ela knew the answer to her question before she asked it.

“Well, I was hoping maybe my room would still be available. That is, if you do not mind me underfoot.”

“Iell, you never cease your games. You well know that your room is always available. And how long will you be 
inconveniencing me?”

“I believe three months should suffice. That will settle Cabel and Lutheliel into the house. And I will need to settle 
with Melkor. He will have to find a new assistant. And, of course, I will need a good stock of Dorga’s tea.”

“And when will you return?”

“I think that a month before the ceremony will be soon enough. I think we will need two ceremonies. I would not like 
to exclude my friends here, but it is unfair to hold the wedding in Lórien when so many cannot attend. And I also do 
not want to keep those who live there from attending. So, it only makes sense to do it twice. I will, of course, need 
to confer with Haldir. But, I think, for once, he will see the need.”

Nothing was said for several minutes. Then Ela said, tentatively, “I do wish I had some family to attend. If only I 
knew where my mother was.”

“But, Ela,” he said softly. “She drowned long ago.”

“No,” she replied. “My father said that she did not. She is still alive. He told me so, himself.”

“What are you saying? Your father died before your mother.” Elrond was beginning to worry that Ela was confused. 
What would do that?

“I talked to him. I asked him if my mother was in the care of Namo. He said no, she was not dead.”

“When did you talk to him?” She was not lessening his concern.

“After the attack on the eastern marches. Del and I stood outside the great hall. Dorlandad met us. He told me to let 
Del go, but I could not. I asked if my mother was with him and he said no, she is still here. Is it not normal for me to 
want her here?”

Elrond sat down, speechless. This was true, and no one had told him? He wondered if Galadriel knew. Surely, she 
would have said something. Why was it that when one problem with the girl had been solved, did another come up?


Chapter 7 - Chapter Seven

 
 
“That is the last of it, Cabel!” The voice carried through the house and out to the wagon in front.

“I have it, Ela,” was the reply. Cabel rounded the door and almost ran into his cousin. He took the bag she carried and looked once more at the home he had built. “I hate leaving,” he said. “There are so many memories.”

“You will be returning. It is not as if I am giving you a house. You are borrowing it. And it is much too big for me.”

“But what of when you are wedded? Will you not need it then?” He still felt awkward, taking her home.

“I told you not to think on that. My home is not on this side of the mountains, and has not been for many years. No, I 
will be returning to Lórien. That is where I am most at home. Besides, Haldir’s life is there. I could not ask him to give 
it up.”

“Are you sure your father does not mind you moving back with him? He just seems such an important man, surely he 
will be inconvenienced.”

“Cabel, if you do not stop, I will take back my offer. Now cease. You are wearing me out.”

“Cabel, hush.” The soft admonition came from behind him. He turned to see his wife. He smiled as he looked into her 
eyes. Such beautiful eyes. He gaze lowered to the slight bulge at her abdomen. At five months, there was little to 
see, but his imagination was vivid. His hand reached out to caress her cheek. He was still amazed that this woman 
could love him.

Lutheliel was a vision. Her dark brown hair hung straight to her waist. The grey in her eyes could turn dark as night 
when she was upset. Right now, they were the colour of the sea on a cloudless day: light and playful. With her hair 
pulled back, he could see the delicate points of her ears that had attracted him from the start. So like the 
companions of his father’s people, the occasional Elf that had joined the Rangers from time to time. 

He found himself comparing his wife to his cousin. Ela took her height and colouring from her mother’s people, and 
even some of her abilities, but her ears were still elven. He did not wonder that her grandfather had hated her and 
her mother. The Indrel were a closed and suspicious people. It had not always been so, his mother had told him. 
Only since being driven from their lands had they turned so unto themselves. The older folk were afraid of this new 
land, even after two hundred years. They younger folk were chafing at the reins controlled by Muc, the self-styled 
duke of Holm’s Hold. It seemed he claimed the title and the heir ship through his sister, the actual heir. Cabel did not 
know all the details, his mother’s account had been sketchy, but he knew that the heir had been left to die, along 
with her tainted daughter. His mother had returned to her birthplace with her son, seeking sanctuary among her 
people. It did not take her long to learn that there was none to be offered. She always believed she had narrowly 
escaped the fate of Ceria and her daughter. The Indrel did not tolerate outsiders. Still, she talked of a cousin who 
had been kind, one who had come from the ships. He did not know much about her, only that she urged his mother 
to flee. 

“If we hurry, we can get down to the mid-level forest. There is a protected place to spend the night.” Ela looked up 
at the sun. It was still early enough in the season to be cool before noon, but the mid-day would bring an 
uncomfortable heat. 

“How far until we reach it?” asked Lutheliel. She had placed Arnor on the bench seat of the wagon. He sat there 
quietly observing the adults.

“It is about two leagues. We can make that easily with the wagon. But, we had best hurry.” Ela turned to her horse, 
as Cabel handed Lutheliel up into the wagon. It always amused her that the elleth pretended to such needs. 
However, it made Cabel happy. Mounting, she turned to lead the way, her cousin following the wagon. She could 
hear his sigh as they moved forward. Well acquainted with leaving home, Ela knew just how he felt. However, it 
would not be forever, only until the land healed itself.

~*~*~*~*~

The small party reached the stopping place with no trouble. The night was spent in relative quiet. Ela lay awake long 
after the fire had burned down. Although she felt she had made the right decision, there were still doubts. Bits and 
pieces of something swirled around in her head; but as she tried to grasp them, they danced from her 
understanding. Sighing, she rolled over on her pad and listened to the night sounds. There was one bit that 
disturbed her greatly: the thought of Haldir holding a child. A dead child. Was it his, or had it been left in the debris of 
some battle? Ela turned back over in frustration.

Over the years, she had gained control of most of her life. Once the initial sporadic beginnings of her abilities had 
been weathered, she had found that one of her gifts lay in healing. The training Glordinel and Melkin had provided 
her had taken hold and allowed her natural talents to develop. With that had grown her empathy with animals. 
However, there were gaps in her memories that only one person could help her overcome, and she dreaded her 
return to Lórien for that reason only. If she could regain the memories, would she really want to? Ela had a feeling 
there was a reason she had blocked them in the first place. 

Finally drifting off to sleep, she wondered, again, what would have been her life had her parents lived. 

~*~*~*~*~

Waking in the false dawn of a new day, Ela stretched limbs no longer used to sleeping on the hard ground. She sat 
up and looked around the small cave they had sheltered in for the night. Cabel was starting to stir. Arnor was 
wrapped up in Lutheliel’s arms, both still asleep. Ela made her way out of the cave and went back behind the small 
hillock. As she was coming around to the tree to the side of the entrance, she caught a faint sound. Peering around 
the tree, she saw Glorfindel sitting on a rock across from the cave entrance. He was soon joined by Delandor. Ela 
relaxed and came into the clearing.

“I wondered where you two had gone. Hunting?” She glanced around for game.

	“Well, we found prey, but not the eating kind. They left a bad taste.” Delandor sat down next to Glorfindel. 
Shaking out his hunting gloves, he looked up at Ela.

“Your mother did you no favours with her parentage. They are a most persistent people.”

“What? They are here?” Both men smiled at a mild expletive from her. 

“They were. We sent them packing. We would do well to get going, though. Determination is a hard driver.”

Ela nodded and returned to the cave. Cabel was up and gathering bedclothes. Lutheliel was dressing Arnor. Ela 
picked up her few things. Within minutes, they were packed and had everything stowed on horses or the wagon. Ela 
and Cabel mounted up as the other Elves melted into the woods, one to the east and the other to the west. 
Lutheliel clucked to the draft horses and they started on their way.



~*~*~*~*~



“All went well?” Ela glanced up from her book. She was reading while waiting for Melkin to return.

“Yes, Ada. All is well. Thank you for asking Glorfindel and Delandor to accompany me. It seems they were needed. 
Cabel is well ensconced with his family. Grandmother is quite taken with Arnor. I may have to pry her out of the 
house. However, Cabel is willing for her to stay. I have all my things out and I have packed what I am taking with 
me. One month to go; it will seem like years.”

Elrond chuckled. “It will be gone before you know it. I have heard from your brothers. They are mixed on the news. 
Elladan is happy, I am not so sure Elrohir is as pleased. They both promise to be here for the wedding.”

	“Was there any doubt?” Ela laughed. “I have a few things yet to finish here in the village. Melkin, of 
course, is mixed on his feelings, also. He is getting up in years and is worried about a replacement. He expressed a 
wish that I was staying. He said then he would never worry about his patients. However, he has found a promising 
lad. Benerd’s grandson is showing some gift for healing. So, I do not feel as guilty leaving.”

Elrond walked to the door and looked out upon the small realm of men. He stood so for several moments.

“What is it?” Ela asked. Coming up behind him, she put her arms around him and laid a cheek on his back.

“I worry for you. I have heard from your uncle, again. He is no longer asking you to return; he is demanding. He is 
making threats against Cabel, if you do not return. Crelden was asking questions last month and knows he is your 
cousin.” Elrond turned and looked at his adopted daughter. “You must tell Cabel who you are. Otherwise, he will not 
know to watch out for himself.” At her look of protest, Elrond laid a finger on her lips. “No, you cannot hide. Your 
reticence may cause him great harm. Could you live with that?”

Ela was silent. Bowing her head, she slowly nodded. It would cause her to acknowledge something she vehemently 
denied, but she would do it, for Cabel and his family’s sake. 

Elrond hugged her close. Again, he was losing a child, and once again, he would be left wondering which one would 
return home next, and when. 



~*~*~*~



The next month passed quickly, as Elrond had predicted. Cabel and Lutheliel settled into their new home, and Elestra 
reluctantly moved to Elrond’s. But, she could be found playing with Arnor most times. Lutheliel was grateful for the 
elder’s advice and help. Moreover, Arnor adored Ela’s grandmother.

Ela spent her time drawing plans for the new house, when she was not busy delivering babies and treating the 
minor injuries that seemed to occur with too much regularity. She admonished the tavern keeper’s son yet again 
about climbing the outside of the building. At ten, he was inquisitive and let the older boys dare him into much too 
dangerous situations. Petro, Benerd’s grandson was fitting into the small infirmary very nicely, and it got him away 
from three sisters. He was quite content. 

Two weeks before Ela was to leave, Benerd quietly went to sleep and did not wake. It was her first brush with the 
death of someone close to her since her father’s murder. Elrond was filled with apprehension. Ela had closed off her 
father’s death; how would she handle this?

It was soon apparent that she would handle it very well. She even spoke of her gratitude for what he and his family 
had done for her the last few years. In her speech, she spoke of the reward of a long life that promised rest. He had 
earned it, and no one should wish otherwise. Comforting Mares seemed to do more than anything else to aid her 
own grief. 

After the funeral ceremony, Elrond found Ela in the tree house. He knew then that things were not as easy as they 
seemed. Coaxing her down, he took her arm and led her to the terrace. Sitting across from her, he tried to look into 
her eyes, but she looked away from him.

“What is it, sell? You do not go to the tree house unless you are truly disturbed.”

Turning her eyes towards him, finally, he could see the pain. “It is hard to lose a friend. And, much harder to lose a 
parent. How much more difficult can it be to lose a child?”

Astonished, he exclaimed, “What do you mean? Who has lost a child?” Once more, he was left feeling a hole in her 
mind was filling in.

“The Lady…” she hesitated.

“The Lady what?” he prompted.

“She saw things. Things that I should know, that have happened; things that will happen.” Her voice dropped to a 
whisper. “I know some of those things. I am not sure now that I have made a wise decision.”

Elrond sat back. She almost laughed at what she had always secretly thought of as his ‘thinking pose’. However, her 
thoughts were too serious for jesting. She wanted to tell him, but hesitated. 

“In what way?” he asked, gently. “You said you loved him. He admitted he cared very much for you. How can this be 
wrong?”

“I know that his son will die. My son. I saw him holding our child. How can I do that to him?”

“Ela, how can you be sure that it will happen? You yourself said that you have no gift for foretelling. And even mine 
are not always correct.” He took her hands in his. “I know that you are upset concerning Muc and Crelden. You are 
also feeling the loss of your home here; and now, Benerd’s passing. Could it not be that you are just feeling 
overwhelmed?”

She looked doubtful and slightly confused. “But, what if it is true. What if our child is to die? I must tell him of my 
fears. And if he agrees with you, then I will just trust that all will be well.”

“What if I talk to him?”

“No, it is my place. I cannot imagine what I will do if he breaks the betrothal. I have never loved anyone as much.”

	He came and knelt beside her. “He will not. You will see. Just have faith.”

	She nodded, still unconvinced. What man wedded with the knowledge that his children might die? She 
determined that she would not continue with the betrothal unless she told Haldir of her fears. It was only right.



~*~*~*~*~



*There was screaming, the sound of men dying during battle. Fighting the brush that would not allow him access to 
the clearing, he watched as the wardens of Lórien engaged wild men in battle. Within moments, all the men were 
dead. Among the Elves, there were three gravely wounded. Glancing around at the bodies, he caught sight of Ela, 
rushing into the glade. Dropping at the side of a fallen ellon, she reached to touch him. Turning swiftly, she jumped 
up and picking up the first sword she came to, she began hacking at the body of one of the dead men. She had 
severed the head and an arm from the remains before Orophin, who had run after her, could stop her. He grabbed 
her and handed her to an unknown ellon. The younger one held her tenderly in his arms and then dropped to the 
ground with her. Ela pulled from his grasp and gently picked up the fallen Elf. Tears coursing down her face spoke of 
caring for the ellon. As he neared them, silent words from her mouth took substance. He did not know the language, 
but the look on her face was of grief and hatred. As he reached for her, she faded, along with everything else.*



~*~*~*~*~



Haldir sat up with a start. There was sweat on his body, and his heart was racing. It had seemed so real. He could 
still hear the echoes of battle ringing in his ears. A dream, but more vivid than any before. He found himself looking 
about for bodies; the clearing held only himself and a horse. Shaking, he tried to rise. Taking a moment, he managed 
to do so only with effort. How could a dream be so real? What did it mean?

Still upset, he saddled the horse and loaded on the bundles he was carrying to Imladris. The three months had 
passed quickly, but Haldir had found enough to keep himself busy. Erasing any signs of a camp, he mounted and 
rode towards the west. He would arrive in another hour, stopping only out of consideration for the horse and the 
late hour. It would not have done to rouse everyone from sleep so late. Besides, the ground  had always seemed 
more home than did a soft bed. 

Riding through the last of the heights, he glanced down at the valley below. There was nothing to see. The 
enchantments weaved by Vilya hid what lay below. Guiding the horse down the hill, he thought back on the dream. 
Lady Galadriel had hinted there were things about Ela that were hidden; things that even Ela did not know. Her 
future was both full of light and hidden in darkness. Haldir would be risking much by loving her, but the Lady assured 
him that the risk would be worth it. Although confused, Haldir trusted the Lady. The dream would have to wait.



~*~*~*~*~

 

The last month was filled with packing and planning. It seemed that everyone wanted to give a gift for something 
she had done for him or her. It was not enough that they had already paid her, in one form or another. Never mind 
that she would be back in less than a year. People acted as if she would never return.

Ela was tired. All of her childhood things were put away in storage. The few things she planned to take with her 
were ready and a packhorse provided. Her house was well tended by her cousin and his family. 

Her grandmother had professed a desire to return to her own home for a time. Elrond suspected that Elestra was 
doing as Ela was- preparing to move to a new life. He was not sure whether the former queen would settle in 
Imladris among the luxury she was used to, or in Lórien, where she would be close to her granddaughter. Elestra’s 
attempts to coax Ela into returning to the Hidden Havens with her had failed. The girl was anxious to get home.


Chapter 8 - Chapter Eight

A/N  This is posted without betaing.  I am waiting for it to be finished.  Please bear that in mind as you read.  If you come across anything of concern, then I would appreciate a head's up.   Thank you.





Ela came out on the terrace. As it was still early, with light just colouring the eastern sky, she was still wearing her dressing gown. Her loose hair was combed and hung to her waist, the waves covering her back. She walked to the railing and stood looking out over the valley. The wind picked up her loose hair causing it to dance about her face. It was so beautiful here, so open and airy. She could almost imagine she had never left. 

The slight breeze moulded the gown to her body, allowing a hint of what lay beneath. It attested that no longer was Ela a girl; no edhel would mistake her for an ellon. She gathered her robe against the slight chill of the early morning breeze. The rising sun shining behind the mountain turned her pale copper hair a burnished gold.
She turned to return to the hall and saw the man sitting in the corner regarding her.

“Haldir,” she whispered. 

Ela stood still for several moments, taking in the sight of him. She suddenly felt like a desert wanderer who had 
come upon a fountain in the midst of a parched land. She had not realized just how much she had missed him 
until that moment. All her fears for the future fled, just looking at him.

He, in turn, could not take his eyes from her. He had not really looked at Ela as more than what he had always 
seen: a girl, a daughter to Gariel and Orophin. Now he looked at her with new eyes. He saw the woman to 
whom he had promised himself. His dream forgotten, his fears dissipated as the mist in the lower valley was 
quickly fading. No longer did he doubt his decision. He saw her not as the granddaughter of one of the great 
Noldor, nor as the runaway heir to an unwanted throne, but rather as the object his subconscious had desired 
far longer than he had been aware. He waited, still as marble.

	Ela shuddered and broke the spell. Moving slowly at first, she finished crossing the terrace in a rush, 
into his open arms. His strong embrace held her captive. Through the heavy clothing, she could feel his heart 
beat, and with it came the knowledge that things were not the same as when he left. The feelings emanating 
were much more. She realized now that she had taken a great chance by pushing him, as she had done. 
However, knowing his fears, she had known he would never take the first step. Once forced into examining his 
own thoughts and feelings, he had seen what almost everyone else had discovered long ago: He was Ela’s 
choice, and she was his.

Breaking away from him, Ela drew her robe tighter against the breeze. Taking his hand, she led him towards the 
house.

“How was your journey?” she asked.

“It was fair, and lonely.” His soft words were for her ears only. “And I hope it will be more enjoyable on the 
return trip.”

She laughed at him. Leading him to a small room off the entrance, she closed the door behind them. Turning, 
she gazed up into his eyes, looking for something. Seeing only pleasure and relief, she took his hands in hers.

“I must talk to you. Now, before Ada finds you are here.” Her sober tone set an alarm off in his thoughts. Sitting 
down on the settee by the window, he took a deep breath. The dream came rushing back with a force that 
closed his eyes.

“What is it? You seem troubled by something.”

“I have seen something in our future. It is so devastating, that I cannot keep it from you. It may cause you to 
change your mind. Ada cautioned me to let it lie, but I cannot.” Her voice was quiet and fearful.

“What could be so bad that you think I would back out of my promise?” He was suddenly terrified that he would 
lose her.

“I saw you holding a child: a dead child.” She hesitated. “Our child.” She was silent, letting the words sink in. 
She studied his face for any sign of rejection. When it did not come, she felt a glimmer of hope.

“Ela, I have heard you say, many times, that not all visions are true. You have said this of Elrond, and even 
hinted it of the Lady.” He paused. Choosing his words carefully, he continued, “And, should yours be accurate, 
do you think that is enough to frighten me? We are not given knowledge of the future lightly. If you have seen 
it, and it is true, so be it. If it is not true, we will look back on this moment in our old age and laugh at our fears, 
together. Now, I hold fast to my promise to you. And, I hold you to yours, and your promise that you will never 
leave me, no matter what happens. Is that enough reassurance for you?” He smiled at the look of relief on her 
face.

“Oh, you will never know. I could not go through with all of this and not let you know. It would not be fair.”

“Never, ever be afraid to come to me with your fears. Together, we can deal with them.” He gently caressed her 
cheek. “Now, I broke camp this morning without breakfast. Do you think I might find something here to eat?”

Laughing, she jumped up. “You go to the dining room. I will join you there. While this gown is fine for meeting 
you on the terrace, I do not think it will suit for dining. I will return quickly.” She dashed out the door before he 
could answer. Well, he thought, some things do not change.



~*~



Elrond’s attention was drawn to his bedroom door by a soft knock. Glancing about his well-kept room, he called 
out an answer to enter. Surprised, he saw Ela fairly dancing at the door. She was wearing a soft grey dress and 
slippers. Her hair was pulled back into a single braid and looped back up onto her head. Her face shined with a 
radiance that could only come from one source. So, he had arrived.

“Ada! He has come. And I talked to him and everything is all right about my dream and he does not care and 
everything is alright.” The words came in such a rush, Elrond was hard pressed to pick out what she was saying.

Laughing, he said, “Slow down, sell. I cannot understand you. Who has come?” he teased.

“Haldir. He is here. And, he is not concerned for the dream. He says we will look back and laugh at my silly fears. 
And, everything is fine. And, I wish I did not have to wait a year.” Realizing what had slipped out in the last 
comment, Ela slapped her hand to her mouth. “Oh, Ada. I did not mean to say that. You must think me horrible.”

“No, Ela, just anxious. And, I understand. It will get harder once you go back to Lórien. You could move the 
wedding up, if you like.”

“No!” she said adamantly. Sighing, she finished, “No, I could not do that. Things are already being planned. I 
would not like to disappoint anyone. It is just wishful thinking on my part.”

Crossing the room to where she stood, Elrond bent down and kissed the top of her head. “It will pass quickly. 
You will find that you do not have enough time.”

“Do you think so? I was so afraid he would change his mind. Now I know he will not.”

“I told you to have faith. Now, are going to keep him waiting for his breakfast?”

	Grinning, she nodded and turned. He could hear the light patter of her footsteps as she ran down the 
back stairs. When finished with dressing, he followed at a sedate pace.



~*~*~*~*~



With her things packed, there was no need to delay their departure. Ela took one last ride up to the higher 
reaches, but did not find what she sought. Disappointed, she tarried to visit with Cabel one last time. Looking 
around her home, she realized that already it belonged to her cousin and his family. There were no regrets, just 
the happy memories of over twenty-five years. 

The talk with Cabel had not gone well. At first, he had been shocked to find out that his “younger” cousin was in 
fact much older than was he. Then had settled in the fact that this was the reluctant heir his mother’s people 
had been trying to reclaim. Angry that she had not told him earlier, it had taken a talk from Elrond to sort out the 
history and the reasons Ela chose to turn her back on her mother’s people. Finally accepting the fact of her 
parentage and position, Cabel was still uneasy with their casual relationship. 

Ela’s goodbyes did not take as long as Haldir had feared. She had settled accounts with those she owed 
favours, given away many of her possessions to cherished friends and gave assurances that she would return 
in eight months. She saved a special goodbye for Dorga. Their weekly “tea” parties had grown into quite a 
tradition, with a favoured few outsiders invited occasionally. An early wedding present, he had finally given her 
the recipe for his ingredient. Promising never to give it to anyone else, Ela had shed tears for his trust and 
friendship. She had also entrusted him with the making of her wedding bands, with Haldir’s consent. To date, 
Dorga was the only dwarf towards whom the Elf had shown even remote feelings of civility. This was due solely 
to his respect for his future wife. 

At last, the day for them to leave arrived. Dinner the night before had been an affair celebrated by close friends 
and family. Dorga had been there, along with Cabel and Lutheliel. Erestor and Seldala, with Ethien also came. 
The only Edain invited were Mares and Melkin. 

Cabel never ceased to be amazed at the luxury that surrounded those of his cousin’s other people, the quiet 
grace that followed their every move. He could see it in Ela and Lutheliel. Moreover, he had seen the passion for 
justice in the Elves that had fought with his father in the north. And, from Ela’s description of her life in Lórien, 
he learned of their love for the land. From Lutheliel he was learning the history of her people. 

Two days after his arrival, Haldir was waiting by his horse. He watched patiently as she said her farewells to 
Elrond and Erestor. Dorga could not resist one last chance to see her before she left. As she bent and embraced 
him, he pressed a small package into her hand. Telling her to wait until later to open the gift, he stepped back, a 
sad smile on his face. Turning to Elrond, Ela was struck by a yearning to stay. 

“I am torn,” she whispered in his ear. “I want to remain, and yet, I feel drawn away.”

“You are feeling only what everyone feels when embarking upon a change in their life. You will do fine. Go, now, 
and show Lórien the true grace of the Elves.”

“I fear there are many there who already possess that grace. They would argue that outside of Lórien and 
Mirkwood, the Elves are too soft.” Her teasing tone carried to her eyes. 

“The day may come when we will show them that we still carry a fire equal to theirs.” Elrond’s tone matched 
hers, then, he sobered. “That day is not long in coming.”

“I would see it never come. The loss will be horrific.”

Changing directions, Elrond glanced at Haldir. “You had best say goodbye. Patience is not a strong trait in him.”

Ela looked over to the man she was to wed. “He will learn it.”

“Yes, I am afraid he will. You were never one to be pushed. Now,” he said, giving her and embrace, “You will 
return in eight months, and all will be ready.”

She returned the hug and, standing on her toes, kissed him gently on the cheek. “I have been blessed to have 
known you. I will never forget what you did.” Stepping back, she turned to Erestor.

“And you, I hope you are up to teaching another child. Cabel and Lutheliel’s son is quite precocious. And you 
know how stubborn we Indrel can be.”

Laughing at her, he opened his arms for a last embrace. “And send your son, when it is time. I feel that any child of yours will be a challenge.”

Taking in the view of the house where she spent so many happy years, Ela turned towards the stable where 
Haldir waited with their horses. Walking over to her mount, she grabbed the reins and placing her foot in the 
stirrup, pulled herself up into the saddle. Accepting the lead for the packhorse, she waited until Haldir was 
mounted. 

She looked back only once: when they were at the edge of the woods east of the valley. With a small sigh, she 
turned and glanced into the face of her companion, the man with which she intended to spend the rest of her 
life. At the slightly concerned expression in his eyes, she smiled. Nudging Sadron gently with her knees, she 
laughed as they pulled ahead.

“Come on,” she cried to the wind. “I want to go home.” He returned the laugh and followed, quickly taking the 
lead, all concerns laid aside for the present.





~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Chapter 9 - Chapter Nine

The return to Lórien saw Ela reacquainting herself with all the reasons she loved the Golden Woods: the quiet, the sunlight filtered through dark green leaves, the freedom to come and go as she pleased.  She went to the bower where she would hide as a child.  The cool green solitude was quietly reassuring.  She took long walks in the forest.  Yes, it was good to be home.

	Gariel was very pleased that Ela accepted the invitation to re-inhabit her old room.  Aniron was now in Elldar’s old room, as he had taken up residence in his own talan.  

	Placing herself at Glordinel’s disposal, Ela was soon travelling between the different outposts, meeting with the different healers and trading information.  It was an easy and pleasant way to pass the time until her return to Imladris.  

~*~*~*~*~

	Haldir had been out on the marches for weeks.  In that time, he had made several circuits of the entire realm of Lórien.  It was with great desire that he looked forward to returning to Caras Galadhon.  And it was not only for the rest.  He missed Ela.  It seemed the closer she was, the more he felt the pull.  

	Halting at a command from beyond his sight, he felt satisfaction in regards to the attention of the 
young warden at the outer fringes of the northern fences.  Clearly, laxness was not a problem where his 
youngest brother was concerned.  Rúmil’s command was exemplary; none could find fault with those under 
him.  It was a testament to his abilities that he was given the largest and most remote borders.  And one 
had only to witness the constant activity throughout the northern fences to appreciate how well informed he 
was.  News of happenings in Caras Galadhon was only a few hours old by the time it reached the outer 
fringes.  And the conduit worked both ways.  Nothing of import happened that was not in Lord Celeborn’s 
hands in a timely manner.  Yes, his brothers had done well for themselves.  

	“Do you plan to stay long, sir?” was the polite question, when  acknowledgments had been made.

	“Long enough to gather anything going south, and to visit with my brother.”

	“Very well.  I think you will find a pleasant surprise awaiting you.”  The young guard could barely 
contain his amusement.  Word had spread fast that Ela was now betrothed.  If none knew about it, they 
must be dead.  She was well liked among the border guards; and while friendly with very few, Haldir was 
respected by all.  

	Glancing at the younger man, he raised an eyebrow and waited in silence.  Grinning, the warden 
held his ground.  

	Finally giving up, Haldir asked, “And what is this surprise?”

	“Lady Elrénia waits.  She said to tell you not to tarry.” Noting the shift in Haldir’s eyes, the young 
warden’s grin became even broader.  Most of the guards were deriving a great deal of amusement at the 
March warden’s “entrapment”.  It was well know his declarations of never wedding.  

	“Well, then I had best not keep her waiting.”  He turned before the look of anticipation caused yet 
more comments.  This whole ordeal was not going as unnoticed as he would like.  The attention made him 
uncomfortable.  It was well Ela was bearing the brunt of it; she seemed well enough capable to handle it for 
the both of them.

	Heading on for the station, Haldir’s thoughts ran over all the changes he was expecting to affect 
his life.  He had no lack of advice and warnings from well meaning folk, as well as those finding an 
opportunity to tease the normally taciturn man.  Those closest to him were aware how much he disliked this 
type of attention. 

	Coming into the main encampment, Haldir searched for her.  He finally spotted her, deep in 
conversation with Corélned, the healer.  He stood watching them, until his brother noticed him and came 
over.  

	“She arrived earlier this morning and told me you would be along about now.  Corélned joined her 
shortly.  They have been engaged since then.”

	“I would ask how she knew, but I have given up trying to figure that out.  The closer I get to her, 
the less I understand.”

	Rúmil smiled.  “You are rather late in trying to understand the way things are.  Take my advice, just 
accept and your life will run much more smoothly.”

	Haldir’s reply was cut off as Ela came across the clearing.  The smile on her face was well worth the 
last two months.  He took in her appearance.  Her hair was pulled back in a heavy braid, tied with ribbons 
dark as sapphires.  Her trousers matched the ties, complimenting the lighter blue tunic.  She had discarded 
her grey cloak due to the unseasonably warm day.  But, all was secondary to the sparkle in her blue eyes.  A 
sparkle reserved for him.

	Ela strode purposefully towards Haldir.  It had been several weeks since they had managed to find 
each other.  Glordinel kept her busy visiting the outer posts and conferring with the healers stationed on the 
fences.  The occasional mishap among the wardens gave her enough education, should she ever find herself 
in need of it.  She had barely had time to prepare for their wedding.  Ah, well, Gariel and Lindelen had the 
planning firmly in hand.  Ela was left with the decision of where to live when they finally returned home.  

	Walking up to her future husband, Ela nodded her head.  He returned the gesture with a smile.  
Rúmil looked on in amusement.  Each was stiff, in their own way: she, with formality, he with a natural 
reticence.  

	“And, how go the marches?” she asked quietly.

	“They go well, my lady.  And your wanderings, how are they?”

	Placing her arm through his, she led him back into the woods, to Rúmil’s office.  Silent, until they 
were safely hidden from prying eyes, he reached down and held her in a tight embrace.  

	“I have missed you,” he admitted.  “Far more than I would have thought possible.”

	“You just say that to flatter me,” she teased.  “You are in your element out here, and I am sure I 
slip from your mind quite often.”

	He laughed.  “Aye, I am comfortable, but never do you leave my thoughts.  Now, tell me what you 
have been doing.”

	They spent a pleasant couple of hours exchanging stories of their separate journeys.  There was 
no concept of passing time.  As the sun dipped below the western trees, there was a discreet knock at the 
door.  Both were startled to discover that they had whiled away the early afternoon.

	Rising, Haldir opened the door to see his brother grinning at him.

	“I wanted to know if you were interested in supper.”  His tone was full of amusement.

	Ela jumped up and exclaimed, “Oh, I forgot about Corélned.  What will she think?”

	“She thinks that you are enjoying a pleasant afternoon, playing catch-up.  Do not worry.  She 
managed to keep occupied.”

	Ela went to find out for herself, not trusting Rúmil’s words.  When she had gone, Haldir looked to 
his youngest brother.

	“Do you know she has been to every outpost that I have inspected in the last three weeks?”

	“She mentioned it.  She just missed you on her journey.  Glordinel sends her to learn, but also to 
teach and exchange news and ideas.  And, it keeps her busy.  This is the last stop.  She is heading back to 
Caras Galadhon tomorrow.  I am sure she would like some company.”

	“As it turns out, this is also my last stop before heading south.  Do you have things for Lord 
Celeborn?”  Haldir absentmindedly glanced around the clearing they had just entered.  Ela was no where in 
sight.  Loneldon approached Rúmil, nodding to Haldir.

	“A rider came in from Spring Grove, to the north.  They have need of a healer.  They requested one 
with knowledge of men.  Corélned is going, but Ela wants to accompany her.  It is couched as a request, but 
she is determined to go.”

	“Thank you, Loneldon.  Is there any reason to question the rider?”

	“No.  He is scared and hurt himself.  He said there was an attack on the village.  They fought off the 
attackers, but there were casualties.  They know that there is a healer here versed in the healing of men.  
That is why they came here.  And, we are closer than is Imladris.”

	“Very well.  Feed the man; see to his horse, and, also his wounds.”

	“Ela already does that.”

	Haldir went in search of her.  Loneldon turned to his captain.  “You realize that he is both blessed 
and cursed.”  

	“Aye, I do.  But, he does not, yet.  I had best be there.  I fear there will be a test of wills before 
anything is decided.”  His serious tone carried amusement below the surface.  This would definitely be worth 
seeing.

	He came upon them quietly discussing her desires.

	“They have need of healers.  Two are certainly better than is one.”  Ela’s voice carried slightly, a 
signal she was irritated.

	“You know nothing of the situation.  It could be an ambush.”  Haldir’s words were delivered with 
some harshness.

	“I will not know, unless I go.  I cannot turn my back on women and children.”

	“You do not even care for men.  Why risk this?”  He groped for understanding.

	“Just because I do not care for them, does not mean I will not help them.  There are children 
involved.  Would you have me let them die?”  Ela had calmed down, a sure sign she had made up her mind.  
Haldir either did not notice, or chose to ignore it.

	“You cannot go.  It is not safe.”  He was adamant.

	“If you are so sure it is not safe, then come with me.  This is my calling, my life.  I chose this way 
because you would not allow me the fences.  Do not now try to prevent my doing what you forced upon me.”  
She gracefully rose and went back to the corral.  Sadron was already at the rail, shaking in anticipation.  
Grabbing the light saddle she used when travelling, she threw it on the horse’s back.  His response was to 
snort.  Opening the rail, she let him out.  Snapping leads on the thin headstall he wore, Ela fastened the 
ends to the saddle.  While the reins were not necessary, there was no knowing what waited on the other 
end of the journey.  

	“You need to think this through.”  He lightly took her arm as she walked past.  Halting, she looked 
at him.  He let go when he saw the light deep in the depths of her eyes.  She continued on to where her bag 
lay against a log.

	Turning back, she said, “This life is full of uncertainty.  We accept that as we do all that affects us.  
You need not fear for my life, as I am not finished here.  However, there are lives out there that are also not 
finished.  It is those lives I think of now.  This moment is bigger than you or I.  Nothing good will come of my 
staying here.  I can make a difference there.  Now, will come with me, or move out of my way?”

	Rúmil lost his air of amusement at their exchange.  He had hoped his brother could sway her, but 
Ela’s sense of rightness was not to be denied.  He shook his head, feeling this was to be but one of many 
clashes between his brother and his wife.  

	“Go with her,” Rúmil said quietly.  “She wants it.  And, you need to.  Remember your side?  She is 
no longer groping in her craft.  You will be amazed.”

	Haldir looked at the younger man.  There was a look in his older brother’s eyes that Rúmil could not 
quite fathom.  

	“I will,” was Haldir’s answer, tinged with resignation.  A battle fought and lost.  This battleground was not familiar to the Marchwarden.  He was in firm command of any under him.  He had never anticipated 
that Ela would not be one he could dictate to and be obeyed.  The lesson sat hard with him.

	Haldir went to the corral and found a mount.  Following Ela’s lead, he picked up a saddle and 
placed it on the horse’s back.  By the time Corélned returned, mounted and packed, all was ready.  Rúmil had 
ordered three other wardens to ride north with them.  The small command would keep Haldir busy and give 
him more to do than mull over Ela’s failure to fall in with his wishes.  Rúmil did not envy any the ride ahead.  It 
would be tense and long.



~*~*~*~*~*~



	Honert’s horse picked up the scent of smoke and shied.  The elven horses seemed not to notice, 
Sadron actually picking up his pace.  The flow of emotion between the horse and rider never ceased to 
amaze Ela.  Sadron always seemed to know what she wanted.  Rumours were that it was the same for the 
Rohirrim.  That is what made them the great horsemen they were.  

	The four hours of hard riding had given her much to time to think on what had occurred back in 
Lórien.  She had not meant to be difficult, but Haldir did not seem to understand how important this was to 
her.  She glanced over at his silent visage.  He had not spoken to her since they had left the Golden Woods.  
Ela knew he was hurt, maybe even angry.  Yet, there was nothing for her to do concerning that.  It was just 
the way it was.  Maybe, after all of this was finished, they would be able to talk.  

	Haldir brought his horse up short.  Holding up his hand for silence, he stared ahead.  Ela could see 
nothing, but heard a distant shout.  When Haldir urged his mount on, she was only to willing to give Sadron 
his head.  They pushed much harder than before.  Within a half hour, they came upon the village.  

	Honert was appalled at the damage.  He had taken little note of the condition of his small town 
when he left.  His mind had been on gaining aid.  He knew the healers had been only too willing to come, but 
also that the commander was not happy.  He had steered clear of Haldir during their ride.

	An older man ran from one of the buildings to greet them.  He had a bandage over one eye and his 
arm in a sling.  The relief on his face was unmistakeable.

	“Honert!  You did not waste any time.”  Bowing low, he greeted Haldir, recognizing him as the 
leader.  “Welcome.  Thank you for coming.  We are in desperate need.”

	Haldir dismounted, walking to the man.  “I am Haldir, of Lórien.  I can see that you needed help.  We will do what we can.”  His tone was formal and distant.  Walking around to Corélned’s horse, he handed her down.  “This is Lady Corélned.  She is one of our healers who are versed in the healing of men.”

	Ela waited until Haldir moved to Sadron’s side.  Allowing his unneeded aid, she gracefully slid into his arms.  

	Turning back to the village leader, Haldir said, “And this is Lady Elrénia, the other healer.  Both 
happened to be at the borders when your rider came in.  If you will show them where the wounded are, they 
will begin.”

	Haldir went to the horses with the packs still on them.  Unloading them, he followed, leaving 
instructions for the wardens to keep watch.  

	Ela was already busy in a corner when Haldir entered the building.  He dropped Corélned’s pack 
beside her and went to Ela.  He was startled to see the young child on the blanket.  An arrow had pierced 
the boy’s upper thigh.  Without a word, Haldir dropped down by the boy’s head and gently brushed the hair 
back.  A mark from an ember marred the pale flesh.  The child’s whimpering was subdued by the soft touch on 
his forehead.  Nodding to Haldir, Ela grasped the arrow, breaking it just behind the leg.  Pulling the now 
pointless shaft back through the wound, she immediately placed clean, herb soaked cloths on both the 
entrance and exit points of the arrow.  Not a sound was uttered by the almost comatose child.  Tying the 
bandages on, Ela stood and searched for the mother.

	Corélned glanced across the room.  Receiving a nod from Ela, she went back to the task of stitching 
a sword wound.

	Ela turned to the blanket next to the boy.  Haldir was already tearing a dirty shirt from the arm of a 
young man.  She watched him work around a broken bone that had broken through the skin.  



~*~*~*~*~

	Haldir found Ela sitting against the outside wall of the makeshift infirmary.  Her eyes were closed 
and he could see the pain on her face.  What they had just done would tax anyone.  He quietly dropped 
beside her.

	Taking her hand in his, he said, quietly, “So, this is your chosen path?”

	Without looking at him, she replied, “It is what was left me.  But, it is the right one, for now.”  

	She leaned against him.  He found it most satisfying.  He had never been one for physical contact, 
and she had been respectful of that trait.  Now, he wondered if he had been wrong.  Memories of a past 
incident involving a dress and a younger girl stirred his thoughts.  His brothers had been right: he had been 
drawn to her, for far longer than he had admitted even to himself.  It had not been her physical being, but 
something more spiritual.  It was as if her heart had called him, even before he became aware of her as a 
woman.  His life was feeling more complete.

	They sat silently for several minutes.  Their peace was shattered by the cries of a woman running 
towards them.  She was dishevelled and there were tears running down her cheeks.  Ela recognized her as 
the mother of a young injured girl.  Haldir had a moment of vertigo as he saw, not the woman, but someone 
else.

	Jumping up, Ela went to the distraught mother, embracing her with comfort.

	“My daughter,” she sobbed.  “You must come!  Please!”  The woman’s begging grated on Haldir’s 
ears.  The race of Men had no pride.  

	“I am coming.”  Ela’s quiet voice calmed the woman, somewhat.  Tears still coursed her cheeks, but 
the sobbing had ceased.  

	Haldir followed them to a smaller building.  Entering, he found the light cut in half, and wondered 
how anyone could see.  He glance rounded the room, until his eyes rested on Ela kneeling beside a girl of 
perhaps four summers.  Ela’s eyes were closed and she spoke in a quiet voice.  The words were not elvish.  
Curiosity drew him closer.  

	The girl was close to death.  That much he could see.  The wounds to the chest were extensive.  A 
man had deliberately used a sword on a mere child.  The thought sickened him to the point he almost left.  Only Ela’s actions kept him rooted to the spot he had chosen.

	Her murmuring soft and intense, Ela picked the girl up and held her to her breast.  Fully embracing 
the small body, she continued her litany of words.  The pain crossing her face angered Haldir; then frightened 
him.  He had heard of healers who took their patient’s pain unto themselves, but it was so rare that most 
dismissed the stories.  Only one who had travelled as much as he had gave the tales any credence.  He had 
heard it was not pleasant for the healers, and could even lead to their death.  He moved to stop Ela.  

	Before he could reach her, Ela’s eye flew open and she fell back, carrying the child with her.  The 
girl gasped and started crying.  The mother picked up her baby as Haldir reached Ela.  He frantically felt for a 
sign of life.  Finding none, he shook the body of his betrothed.  Fear flooded him as he realized she could be 
dead.  The impact of her loss slammed into him like a war-axe.  On the verge of finding fulfilment in his life, he 
faced losing it.

	One of the wardens, checking on the commotion, rushed out to find Corélned.  Haldir looked up 
bleakly as she came and knelt beside him.  

	“What happened?” she asked sternly.  She had to get Haldir in control of himself.

	“She was holding the child and then fell back.”  The words barely came from his mouth, so choked 
was he.

	“Give her to me.”  Corélned reached for Ela.  For a moment, she thought she would have to wrest 
the still form from his arms.  Finally, he released his grip.  

	Sitting back, he watched, silently, while the healer examined the body of his love.  Yes, now he 
could finally admit it.  It was not a union of agreement.  It was a need he had felt for years, but did not know 
how to act upon.  If she died now, he would break his vow to her.  He would follow her.  At last, he 
understood, in part, his mother’s choice to follow his father after his death.  The emptiness was too great to 
contemplate dwelling in forever.

	He sat quietly for half an hour, then started as Corélned finally turned to him.

	“I do not know what happened, but she is deeply asleep, and close to death.  I have never seen 
this before.”

	“I have heard of it: healers who take upon themselves the pain and injuries of others.  It is mostly 
tales, but there is a germ of truth to everything.  It could be something from her mother’s people.  Will she 
live?”  He almost could not speak the last words.  

	“I think so, but I will watch her for a while.  Get some sleep.  We will not leave until she is awake.  
And I have no idea how long that will be.”  Turning to the village woman who had been helping her, she 
asked about food.

	“I am terribly sorry,” the woman exclaimed.  “I will see to it immediately.”  She ran off to organize a 
meal.

	Corélned turned back to Haldir.  “I meant it; rest.  You will do none of us any good if you are not at 
your best.  I will stay here.  I promise.”  Waiting until he lay down a short distance from them, and started a 
soft snoring, she then turned back to Ela.

	“What did you do, child?  And where did you learn to do it?  I know Glordinel did not teach you, and 
I rather doubt you learned it in Imladris.  Lord Elrond will have my head if anything happens to you.  And, let 
us not even consider the Lord and Lady.  I fear they will have enough to say about this little jaunt as it is.  If 
you die, you will leave all of us with no air in our sails.  And I for one do not want to contemplate your 
brothers.  No, you had best return, and soon.”  	Corélned wiped Ela’s brow.  It was cool and dead to the 
touch.  A thrill of fear coursed through her blood.  No!  Not yet!  She grabbed Ela’s head as if to reason with 
her.  She was caught in a maelstrom of events and colours.  The pain was so intense, she thought she would 
die.  Breaking the contact, Corélned fell back onto her backside.  She paused, feeling yet the pain.  

	At a moan from Ela, she jumped back up and to her side.  Still unconscious, at least she now 
registered some signs of life.  Debating whether or not to wake Haldir, she, deciding he needed the rest, left 
him sleep.  It still looked to be a long night.



~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~



	The light filtering in through the open window hit Haldir’s eyes.  Waking with a start, he realized 
that he had slept much later than was his custom.  The reason for his late rising, the lack of sleep throughout 
the night brought him to full awakening.  Ela!  How could he have forgotten? 

	Rising from the thin pallet he had spent the night on, he looked over to where her pale form still 
lay.  Corélned was not to be seen, but a young boy sat beside her, speaking softly.  Haldir’s keen hearing 
caught the words.  The boy was singing, of heroes and vanquished foes; the story of Isildur and the Ring.  

	The boy looked startled to see the elfman drop beside him.  In awe of the little seen race, the boy 
quieted.

	“No, continue,” the fair being said to him.  “She loves this story.”

	“Is she a friend?” the boy asked timidly.

	“She is to be my wife, in a few months time.  We will go to Imladris where her father lives.”

	“Hmm,” said the boy.  “Lord Elrond.  Yes, I know who she is.  My mother told me.  She is from Misty 
Haven.  She learned the story from her cousin, Benerd.  My mother was shocked when she learned who the 
healer was.  You are indeed a lucky man…or elf.  To have a wife so gifted.  She saved my small sister.  My 
mother will never forget it.”

	Haldir looked to the boy.  It was the same one from whom they had pulled the arrow.  “That was 
your sister?  I would say she is the lucky one.”  The ease with which he found himself conversing with the 
boy stirred him.  This was no childish youngling.  For all his young years, he spoke like a man.

	“Tell me,” he asked, “What does your father do?”

	“My father?  He is dead, killed by the wild men three summers ago, just after Areid was born.  My 
mother and I farm the land, now.  We are all that is left of our family.”

	Glancing at the rough hands on the boy…no, he would rightly be counted a man…he could see the 
labour that had aged a child into an adult.

	“You would do well to remove yourselves from this land.  Go where it is safe.”

	“And where would that be?” came the query.  The boy was no fool.  “Mirkwood is our best bet, but 
Mother will not abandon the land my father died to protect.”

	“Then you will join him sooner than is necessary.”  It was said without rancour; just a simple 
statement of fact.  “And why, when there is no need?  King Thranduil will welcome you.  You are now a man.  
See to your mother and sister.”

	Pulling himself up, the boy did seem the man he was destined to be.  “You are correct.  I must 
make my mother see the wisdom in your words.  Thank you.”

	Haldir was surprised at the boy’s words.  “What is your name?”

	“Hamand, son of Tarker.  Once my line was of the Dúnedain.  Now, we are farmers by trade, 
soldiers by necessity.”

	“Then, Hamand, son of Tarker, heed my words and convince your mother.  She will owe her 
longevity and the life of your sister to your ability of persuasion.”

	“I hope you and your lady have a long and prosperous life.  I know what that means for you, but 
still, it is the only thing I can give her for the life of my sister.”

	Haldir was moved by Hamand’s desire to give anything for another.  Nodding, he watched as the 
boy slowly moved to allow him closer to Ela. 

	Checking her breathing, which was still shallow and light, Haldir’s hand touched her skin.  Cold, yet 
the warmth of his fingers seemed to stir something inside her.  With a shuddering sigh, she opened her eyes 
halfway.  He immediately drew down to her.

	“What happened?” she asked hoarsely.

	“I would ask you that, my lady.”  His voice was as soft as hers.  “You picked up the girl, and several 
moments later, you fell unconscious.  You have slept for hours.”  His voice faded as he saw her slip back 
down into sleep.  Standing and stretching, he told the boy to sit and watch her.  

	Walking to the door, he stepped through, into the bright sunshine of early morning.  Searching out 
one of he village elders, he quietly asked for Corélned and food.  The one he found in the larger building 
being used as an infirmary.  The other found him, in the form of a large bowl of broth and a platter of meat 
and cheese.  A mug of ale was balanced on the edge of the platter.  He took the food back to where Ela 
slept.  

	Watching her as he ate, his attention was drawn away by approaching footsteps.  Looking up, he 
recognized the village elder, Bekker.  Nodding an invitation to sit, Haldir waited.

	“She is better?” was the man’s first comment.  His grey hair and slight frame belied a strength well 
hidden.

	“She woke earlier.  I believe she will recover.”  Haldir managed to look at Bekker as he spoke.  His 
desire to keep his eyes on Ela warred with his dislike of showing any weakness.

	“If not for her, the young one would have died.  Her mother is very grateful.”  There was a slight 
hesitation.  “We are all very grateful.  If not for the quick response from you and yours, we would have lost 
more.”

	“What happened?”  Haldir was inclined to keep the man talking.  It would help pass the time.

	“Wild men from the north.  This is the third time in as many years, but this is the worse.  Usually, 
they just steal some cattle and sheep.  Last time, they carried off two young women.  We managed to find 
them, but they were never the same.  We have watched for over twenty years as things change.  There is a 
shift in power.  It is felt on the wind, and in the earth.”

	“You are remarkably attuned to what is around you.”  Haldir was curious about the man.  “You are 
more than a simple villager.”

	“I am of the Dúnedain.  I settled here when I wedded.  It was thought, at the time, a way to learn 
what went on in the southlands.  A spy may learn of major happenings, but a villager can learn much by his 
seeming stupidity.  It has worked to the advantage of all.  And you?  You are from Lórien.  Are things as 
stable as rumoured?”  The twinkle in his eye showed that recent events had not killed his sense of humour.

	“They are well, for the moment.  There is a stirring, but it has not yet reached so far.  Why did you 
not send for help from Mirkwood?  It is much closer.”  He had been puzzling over that for several hours.  
Thranduil would have been the logical choice to ask for aid, and he was closer.

	“I knew of Corélned, the healer.  She has been here before.  And, I heard rumours of the other 
one.  We do send things to Imladris from time to time.  News is but one thing we trade.  Our healers are 
good, but not to be compared with yours.  And, we lost ours last winter.  He was caught by a wolf.  It has not 
been easy these last few months.”

	Haldir was quiet.  He had never given much thought as to how those outside of Lórien and Imladris 
fared.  They had not the enchantments to protect them.  Still, they managed to survive.  

	“The lady, she is something to you?”  The question brought Haldir back.

	“We are to wed, in a few month’s time.”

	“She is lucky, indeed,” Bekker said, surprising the Marchwarden.  Everyone was constantly telling 
him how lucky he was.

	“How so?” he asked.

	“She has one willing to follow her path and accept her as she is.  That does not happen as often as 
it should.  Ah, I see you are beginning to understand.  It is not something you have thought about, is it?  Men 
are funny creatures, whatever the race.  They think the world revolves around them and their needs.  Then 
comes along a woman who is strong, and they are at a loss.  Think on the Lady of the Woods.  I have heard 
that more than one male ego was upset by that one.”  He chuckled at the look on Haldir’s face.  “Yes, I know 
of the Lady Galadriel.  Stories are handed down in our families, also; tales that are a few generations old to 
you, but thousands of years to us.”

	Haldir was quiet.  He did not like to think of men as anything other than lesser beings.  Bekker 
placed them in a light the Marchwarden seldom saw.  It was easier to deal with them when he did not have 
to consider the fact that they were fellow children of Eru.  Now, his complacent view of the world as he saw it 
shifted.  First dwarves, then men.  What was Ela doing to him?

	“Yes, she is head-strong,” Haldir finally admitted.  “It has led to some interesting problems.”

	“They always do,” said Bekker, softly.  “My own love was so easy-going.  She never gave me any 
cause to worry about her.  And, while I dearly loved her, life was too smooth.  I missed the adventure of my 
former life.  There is far more to life than a good meal and a warm bed.  Aye, there is the reason to rise in the 
morning, to face the trials of the day.  That is what my marriage lacked: a woman who could face danger by 
my side.  Nolel always stayed behind and tended things here.  While a comfort, I would rather have had her 
by my side.”  He lapsed into silence, dwelling on the memories of his late love.

	The quiet lasted until the early hours of morning.  The disturbance came in the form of a question.  

	“Haldir?”  The soft word brought him from his light sleep.  Moving swiftly to the blanket on which 
she laid, he knelt beside her.

	“Ela, I am here.”  He would stop her when she struggled to sit up, then shrugged and aided her.  
The dark circles under her eyes concerned him, but not as much as the lack of colour in her skin.  Her hair 
hung limply around her shoulders, as dead-looking as her eyes.  

	“I…” she groped for words, confusion on her face.  “What is wrong with me?  I…cannot feel.”

	“Feel what?  What is it you cannot feel?”  He looked around for Corélned.  

	“Nothing.  I feel nothing.”  She grabbed his arms in a death grip.  He winced at the pressure.  “It is 
all gone.  Everything.  I…am gone.”  Her words faded into a whisper as she slumped into his arms.  

	“CORÉLNED!” he bellowed, disregarding the looks from those around him.  He was still holding Ela 
when the healer came running.

	Backing off to give the woman room, Haldir watched, helplessly as Corélned lowered Ela back down 
on the blanket.  

	After examining her for several minutes, the healer turned back to Haldir.  “I can do nothing for 
her.  She needs more than I can do.  Only Elrond or the Lady can find her now.  I would counsel against 
taking her to Imladris.  You would waste much time.  Get her home and into the care of the Lady.  I will 
follow.  Do not worry for us.  Now, go.”

	She did not give him any time to think.  He went out to the makeshift paddock where their horses 
were waiting.  Before he could open the gate, one horse was pushing against him.  Looking into the animal’s 
eyes, Haldir nodded.  Throwing the saddle over Sadron’s back, he led him to the small building.  Going inside, 
he found Corélned had wrapped Ela in a clean blanket.  Picking her up, he went back outside to find one of 
the other warden’s waiting, already mounted.  Without a word, he managed to climb into the saddle still 
holding the almost weightless form of his promised wife.  Curin, the young ranger, grabbed the saddle bag 
thrown to him by his partner.  He set out after Sadron, now running at a slow lope near the outskirts of the 
village.  

	Approaching them, he was suddenly pressed to keep up as Ela’s horse took his own head and set 
out at a near impossible pace.  Even loaded with two riders, Sadron began to outdistance Curin’s mount.  At 
a word from Haldir, he slowed enough for the other horse to catch up.  Shaking his head with impatience, 
Haldir knew it was loyalty to her that made the horse obey.

	It was a quick and tense journey back to Lórien.  And the longest Haldir had ever made.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Chapter 10 - Chapter Ten

The darkness was smothering.  Thoughts were drawn back to the pain, the overpowering pain that had permeated her being.  She was dead and this was the punishment for turning her back on her mother’s people.  That was the only explanation.  But, what of Haldir?  He surely would not follow her.  He had promised, as had she.  

	The pain became unbearable.  It was everywhere.  Her skin felt like fire.  Even her hair hurt.  Wait, if she was in pain, could she be dead?  No, no.  That could not be.  Unless, was she lost, between Arda and…and…The thought was gone.  No, she was not dead, just lost, lost in an impenetrable night that contained no stars.  No moon.  No light.  

	However, the pain was subsiding.  The blanket of dark seemed to be lightening, allowing her to breathe easier.  There was a buzzing in her ears that slowly clarified into singing.  A soft and low voice.  A male voice.  A coolness touched her forehead as she slowly drifted off into a normal sleep.

~*~*~*~*~

 Haldir watched the change in her, from troubled fits to a calming rest.  He took his eyes from her long enough to nod to Glordinel.  Drawn back to her, he noticed the slight colour returning to her skin.  He shifted slightly to allow her mentor to examine her.

	“She is improving.  I do not know what the Lady did, but it worked.  I will stay with her.  You go and stretch your legs.  Walk as far as the gardens and ask the Lady to come.”  Glordinel stood staring at Haldir, who balked at leaving.  “You will do her no good if are exhausted.  Now, go walk in the sunlight.  And, bring me some of Gariel’s stew.  I am hungry.”  The twinkle in his eye moved Haldir more than anything the healer said.

	“I will go, but only because you force me.”  He hesitated.  “You will find me if needed?”

	“Do you doubt it?” Glordinel answered, with a smile.  “Now go.  Do not forget my food.”

	Haldir turned, not appreciating the humour.  At the moment, the only thing that could lift his spirits was Ela waking.  

	The last two days had been hard on him.  Not since his mother’s passing had he felt such a loss.  Then, he had 
had two small brothers to care for, not an easy task when he was just barely past puberty himself.  Now, he had some 
understanding of what had caused her to follow her husband after he was killed.  He did not like letting go of the anger 
and hurt, but maybe it was time.  He swore softly.  He had undergone more changes since meeting the troublesome 
child, and now, he was wedding her.  How his father would laugh at him, always chiding his seriousness.  

	The thought of his father brought a slight smile.  Yes, it was getting easier to remember them, without the 
bitterness.  His father, a warden, but not inclined to wander, as did his son.  Tall and fair, with a crinkle about the eyes 
from much laughter, he had been prone to silly stories to amuse his children.  And, his mother, just as tall, her beauty 
was legendary.  He had heard that only Arwen outshined her.  She had had a gentle way about her, and a habit of 
cocking her head, just as Ela did.   

	As he thought upon it, he realized that Ela was very like his mother: fair looking, a great sense of propriety, a 
casual sense of humour.  Why had he not seen it before?

	Hurrying on his errand, he stopped at his brother’s house.  Getting the stew that Gariel had waiting, he returned 
to Glordinel’s offices.  Not finding the healer, he went into the back where Ela was resting.  Setting down the bowl, he 
glanced at the older man.

	“Is there any change?”

	Glordinel looked up.  “She is resting easier.  It may not be long, now.”

	Haldir nodded.  “I will return.  I have to speak to my brother.”

	“Go, then.  You will find me here when you return.”

	Looking once more to the figure on the bed, Haldir reached out and brushed her forehead.  It felt warmer, more 
alive than two days ago.  Nodding to Glordinel, he went in search of Orophin.



~*~*~*~*~



	The quick pace of the wardens brought Haldir to the eastern marches in a short time.  Checking with Celedien, he 
found his brother at the small archery range, working with a couple of younger wardens.  Seeing his older brother, 
Orophin finished up and walked over.

	“How is Ela?”  he asked.  If Haldir was out here, then she must be better.

	“She rests easier.”  The uncharacteristic hesitation in his voice warned Orophin that Ela’s condition was not the 
reason for the visit.  He waited.

	“I want to talk to you about our mother.”  The words surprised Orophin.  Haldir had never wanted to talk about 
their parents.

	“You have seen it, then?  The resemblance?”

	Haldir started.  “How did you know?”

	Pausing, Orophin chose his words carefully.  “She is much like our mother.  Strong, dedicated and her own 
beauty.”

	“What do you remember of our mother?”  Haldir’s voice carried only a trace of its former bitterness.  

	“I remember much about her.  Her love of gardening; our garden was large, with flowers and plants everywhere.  
There were books everywhere.  And, she loved our father.  It seems, more than life itself.”

	“She did not love us enough to remain.  What of that?”

	Orophin, looking into his brother’s eyes saw something he had not seen often.  “What do you fear?” he asked 
softly.

	Haldir jerked.  Was that phrase to haunt him the rest of his life?  “I am afraid.  I fear that she will die.  I fear that 
she loves me so much she would leave our children.  I fear she does not love me enough.  I fear many things.  Do you 
not feel the same for Gariel?”

	“No,” was the quick reply.  “I have never doubted Gariel’s love.  Moreover, she would not leave Aniron.  Not even 
to follow me.  However, that does not mean she does not love me.  You must learn to trust, brother.  You cannot turn 
back now just because you have fears.  Do you think Ela would understand or accept?    There was a hesitation.  “This 
is exactly what I was afraid would happen.  You have been drawn to her, as she is to you.  Fighting it will not make it 
disappear.  However, you must let what happened to our parents go.  You are not our father, and she is not our 
mother.”  Orophin watched the painful emotions cloud Haldir’s eyes.  “You cannot live with what might be.  You must 
accept life daily.  And, you must trust your heart.  If you feel this way, there is no doubt that there is love there, but you 
cannot let second thoughts decide your actions.”  He grinned.  “Besides, I know how she likes to tweak your nerves.  I 
believe that you will be plagued for many years.  Go.  You need to be there when she wakens.  It is not fair to make her 
think you have deserted her.”  He ducked the playful swing Haldir made.

	“Very well.  But, if things go awry, I am looking to you to fix them.”

	“You do not need my help.  You just do what you know in your heart is right, and things will work out as they 
should.  Now, go back to her.  You have wasted too much time on this foolishness.”  

	“Thank you, brother,” was Haldir’s soft reply.  The embrace he gave surprise Orophin, but was received with good 
humour.  

	Orophin’s grin lasted until his brother left.  Frowning slightly, he shook his head.  He had watched the relationship 
between his small charge and his brother change over the years, not always liking what developed.  He still had 
reservations about them, but knew that Ela had been set on this course for a long time.  However, he did not want to 
contemplate the change in his relationship with Haldir if Ela was hurt.  

	Shaking his head once more, he questioned the events life handed out that made one doubt loyalties.



~*~*~*~*~*~





	The darkness seemed to be lightening up, once more.  A vast pain in the nether regions of her body caused a 
moment of concern, until she realized it was hunger…a great hunger.  Wondering how long she had drifted in the 
darkness, Ela found the strength to finally attempt to awaken.  It was not easy; the warmth of the darkness was 
comforting.  The little girl’s pain had subsided, and then disappeared.  

	Concentrating, she thought she remembered the Lady, but that was impossible.  Why would she travel all the way 
to Spring Grove?  No, that was a dream, surely.  Wandering around in the darkness, Ela missed her cat.  She was sure 
that she had spoken to her father, but no, that would have been years ago.  Where were the candles here?  She was 
getting tired of stumbling around in the dark.

	Glancing up ahead, she saw a small twinkle of light.  Approaching it, she found a small child.  Hesitating, she 
suspected that she did not really want to know who it was.

	“Hello, my lady,” the child said, bowing.

	“Hel…hello,” replied Ela, who could not help looking around for the Lady.

	“No, I speak to you.  You are well?”

	“I think so.  I feel better.”  She took a moment to study the child.  Small, with reddish-blond hair and bright blue 
eyes, the girl was wearing a bright blue dress.  The small sandals on her feet were woven from grasses that had grown 
along a stream in a forest.  Ela vaguely recalled a pair very much like them.

	“They are yours,” said the girl, answering her unasked comment.

	“How…?  I know you.  I know that dress.”  Ela was confused.  Had she been hit on the head again?

	“You do.  I am Cera.  This is the dress Nana made for your sixth birthday. The sandals, Ada weaved himself.  Not 
very comfortable, they were his first attempt, but you did not take them off for a week.  You never told him they hurt 
your feet.  Nana finally did, laughing at the two of us, playing a game.”

	Ela said nothing, waiting to see what the child would do.  She noticed the doorways down the hall.  Each was one 
of three colours, closed tightly.  There was an ominous feeling seeping from under some of them.  Others, she could 
almost hear laughter.  Returning her gaze to the child, Ela stood.

	“You must go.  You do not belong here yet.  You are not ready.  What you did to that child was not something you 
should have done.  There is so much that you need to learn.  Do not push things.  Trust your cousin to guide you.  She 
has great wisdom and can aid you.”

	“Where is here?”

	“I will not tell you that.  It is not time.  You will know when the time is right.  Now, one awaits you.  You have many 
years before you need seek me out.  Enjoy them.  Learn, and live.  Do not contemplate the future too deeply.”

	“You are a strange child,” Ela commented.

	“Many have said as much about you.  You must go.  It is time.  And, my lady, do not bury your past too far.  It is 
not good to forget where you began.”

	Ela felt herself pulled away from Cera.  She gave into the urge to drift back.  The girl slowly dwindled and the light 
dimmed.  Then, a pain as great as if someone had hit her in the chest struck.  With a gasp, she awoke.



~*~*~*~*~*~



	As Haldir walked back towards Glordinel’s, he felt a lurch in his chest.  Running the rest of the way, he burst into 
the low dark room where he had left Ela.  His eyes focused on the empty bed, he did not see her.  Frantic, he rushed to 
the bed.  He jerked at the light touch on his arm.  Turning, he looked down into her smiling face.

	“Why are you out of bed?” he demanded.

	The smile faltered.  “I have no need of it any longer.  Why am I here?”

	Glordinel chose that moment to walk into the room.  Taking in the scene and hearing the confusion in Ela’s voice, 
he moved to calm Haldir.  Laying a gentle hand on his shoulder, he looked at Ela.

	“You are feeling all right? he asked, checking her eyes and colour.

	“I feel fine.  Why am I here?” she asked again.

	“What do you remember?”  He manoeuvred her towards the bed.  

	“I remember the girl’s mother coming for me.  She was not breathing, so I picked her up.  That is all I recall, 
excepting some very strange dreams.  How long have I been here?”  Her eyes clear and her colour returned, Glordinel 
sighed, satisfied.

	“You have been here in Lórien for two days.  Haldir brought you back.  Do you remember what you did?”

	“I picked her up.  Then….”  A grimace flowed across her face.  “There was pain, great pain.  Then nothing, except 
the dreams.”

	“What were the dreams?”  Haldir finally joined the conversation.

	Her slight hesitation did not escape their notice.  “I do not recall.  I just know that I had them.”  

	Glordinel chose not to comment on her evasion.  Haldir, taking his cue from the healer held back what he was 
about to say.

	“Can I go home, now?” she asked.  “For some reason, this dark room depresses me.  I would be out in the 
sunlight, in the garden.”

	Haldir looked to Glordinel.

	“She appears recovered,“ he said to Haldir’s unasked question.  “Just take things easy for today.  If you are up to 
it, I have an errand for you, in a few days.  Meanwhile, go home and enjoy the garden.”

	After a nod from Ela and Haldir both, Glordinel watched them leave, Ela’s hand tucked protectively in his arm.

	They were long gone before Galadriel arrived to discuss the events with Glordinel.



~*~*~*~*~



	After two days of him hovering over her, Ela decided it was time for him to go and see to his own duties, as she 
had things to do herself.  He was not happy, but he did see her point.  He had neglected his responsibilities long 
enough.  

	“When will Glordinel send you on your errand?” he asked her, while walking through the formal gardens his last 
night in Caras Galadhon.

	“In a couple of days.  It is only to the western fences, to see how Gesel is fairing with that new plant of his.  If it 
takes root, it will mean a ready source of medicines that will aid in blood loss.  It is chancy travelling so far east to 
procure it.  Legolas said that they lost another healer while searching out the herb.”  She paused.  “It is not a long ride, and I will be careful.  That is why you hesitate to leave, is it not?  Look,” she said, glancing at him.  “I promised the Lady 
and you that I would not do anything like that again.  I do not intend to disregard my word.  There is no expectation 
that I would need to.  You will find me at the southern wards when you arrive.”

	Her hand rested lightly on his arm, as the thought of something happening to her rested heavy upon his heart.  
The last week had frightened him more than anything else he had experienced since first knowing her.  He laid his hand 
over hers.  The slight tingle of electricity shooting through him surprised him, as it always did.  

	“Very well, then.  I will leave you in the capable hands of Gariel.  She is, by far, a harder taskmaster than am I.”

	“Do I not know it,” she replied, ruefully.  “There is something about dealing with her that makes me want to 
exercise caution.  I love her dearly, but, she quite mothers one to death.”

	He chuckled, having been on the receiving end of her ministrations.  Yes, Gariel would keep an eye on Ela, as long 
as she was in Caras Galadhon.  Well, he had his own network, and they would do their part.

	They walked in silence.  Before either was aware of it, they had reached the small stream coursing through the 
gardens.  Taking a seat on one of the empty benches, they watched across the stream where a father was playing ball 
with his son.  There were faint shrieks of laughter from beyond the trees where a game of tag was being played.  

	Haldir broke the silence.  “Have you found a suitable house?”  He still shuddered slightly at the thought of living on 
the ground.

	“I believe that we will be quite happy in your talan until there is a need for a house.  Rúmil has decided to move to 
a smaller place, since he is not here much; and, he has no need for such a large place.  Yet.”  The lightness of her tone 
and the laughter just below the surface caught his attention.

	“What do you know that I do not?” he teased.

	“Nothing that will come about for many years.  It is just a feeling.  I would not bore you with conjectures.”  She 
laughed outright at the slightly petulant look on his face.  Reaching up with her hand, she lightly caressed his cheek.  
His scowl faded as he leaned down and gently brushed her lips with his.

	“I thought we had settled this,” she said, and proceeded to press in with more ardour.  

	He accepted what she offered and sat back, unsatisfied.  Was it truly two more months they were to wait?  
Suddenly, he wished she had given in to her desire to wed sooner.  He stood up abruptly, glancing at the amused look 
on her face.  For one who was supposed to be un-knowledgeable in these matters, she certainly knew how to push 
him.

	Deciding to ignore her game, he turned back to his earlier question.  “You are able to live in the talan, then?”

	“If that is where you are, then yes, I am able.  Not that I plan to spend much time there.  I do not intend to sit 
here in the city, bored, while you traipse the fences.  So, I will be able to tolerate it.”  She waited, anticipating his 
reaction.

	“Very well,” he said, surprising her.  “It is not an easy life.  You have had small tastes of it.  It is more than your 
two week stint.”

	“Yes, well that went rather well.”  She laughed.  “If it is more boring than that, then I will be happy.”

	He smiled at her.  Sobering, he was silent for several minutes.  Glancing at her half-closed eyes, he suddenly had 
to ask.

	“Why did you make the choice you did?”  There was no need to clarify.  She had known he would ask, eventually, 
why she had turned down the Indrel, why she had chosen him.

	“When I was a child, my mother spoke to me of her life.  She did not want that for me.  Marriages are made for 
reasons of power or wealth, rarely for love.  I would have been sold for what I could gain my grandfather.  Not for coin, 
but sold nonetheless.  When my father talked of the ways of his people, I knew that I would never settle for what my 
mother could have faced.  Theirs was a marriage of love.  There was never any doubt.  He died for her, and she would 
have done the same for him.”  She paused.  Smoothing the skirt of her dress, she looked back up into the trees.  
“When Elrohir and Elladan found me, they did not know who or what I was.  I had been cast out from the only people I 
knew and left to die.  They only saw a child in need, and saw to those needs.  When Elrond took me in, he had no idea 
I was his cousin.  There again, there was no gain to him.  Only a child in need.  And, he saw to those needs.  For many 
years, I needed, and was aided.  You were different.  You saw something else.  And, I think it coloured your reactions.  
You have dwelled for so long within yourself, you did not see that a mere child was not the only one in need.  I felt that 
from the first time I met you.  Your heart called to mine, even as a child.  I have never doubted that you would be the 
only man for me.  My fear was that you would not want me.”

	He sat and digested what she had said.  “So,” he started, his voice low and his face hidden so she could not see 
it.  “There is no burning passion, no deep abiding longing for what is to come?”

	“Oh, no!” she exclaimed.  “All know that the elves have no great bursts of passion.  It is all well banked by years 
of ennui.”

	He looked up to gauge her seriousness, to see the light in her eyes and the laughter threatening to burst out.  
When his did, she could not contain hers, either. They laughed until tears rolled down their faces.  Ela gained control 
first, and her peals of laughter subsided into chuckles.  

	“You have two months to contemplate your freedom,” she whispered, “then I will show you no burning passion, no 
abiding longing.”  The promise in her words sent a quiver through his body.  How had he so lost control of things?


Chapter 11 - Chapter Eleven

“Have you packed what you will need?”  Gariel’s question came from the kitchen down the hall.  She had laid out the dress and slippers that she and Lindelen had finished only two weeks earlier.

	“Yes,” was her reply.  Ela looked over the two bags that comprised her clothes and a few small gifts.  It was little enough to take, but she did still have clothes at her father’s home.  

	“Did you remember Dorga’s gift?”  Gariel came and stood in the doorway.  	Ela picked the carefully wrapped 
package.  Opening it, she marvelled once again at the beauty of the object.  It was a silver chalice, overlaid with gold 
filigree.  It was a marriage cup, the one concession to Indrelan custom that she had made.  It was to be used 
immediately after the ceremony; a sharing of one by two was the saying.  It symbolized that from that point on, all 
things were to belong to both of them.  A rather ironic sentiment in Ela’s estimation, considering how her mother’s 
people treated their women.  However, she felt it would make her mother happy to know that at least that part of 
her heritage she was willing to uphold.  And Dorga had made it after seeing drawings given him by Cabal.  

	Smiling, she wrapped the cup back up, placing it well within her clothes.  Closing the bag, she turned to the 
woman who had been less than a mother, but more than a sister to her for so long.

	“I am so glad that you will be making the journey.  I cannot imagine so important a thing as my wedding without 
you and Orophin.  I wish Lindelen was going, also.”

	“As does she, but she does not care to leave right now.  She is anticipating meeting her husband in a couple of 
months; so, it is as well that she is staying to take care of arrangements here.  When you return, all will be ready for 
the celebration.  Now, if you do not mind, I have several things to go up to the talan, if you would like to take them 
up.  It is not much, nor will it take you long.”

	“All right.  I want to check over the talan, anyway.  Also, I need to make sure that Rúmil’s belongings are moved 
to his new home.  I so hated putting him out of the talan, but it would be rather crowded there for three, not to 
mention awkward.  However, he seems happy enough to do it.  Not that he will spend much time there.”

	She followed Gariel to the family room.  Picking up the basket waiting by the door, she turned glanced at her 
future sister-in-law.  

	“Thank you,” she said, reaching up and kissing her cheek.  “Where would I be today, without you?”

	“You would have managed,” was the reply. 

	“Yes, but with you, I have more than managed.  I am so very grateful for knowing you.  Would that I had had a 
sister.  I would have wanted her to be you.”

	“Go, girl.  At the rate you are stalling, that basket will still be here when you return from your wedding.”  The 
words did not match the tears forming in her eyes.   Turning abruptly back into the house, she left Ela to step out on 
the porch and be off on her errand.  

	Ela stepped a lively pace as she headed towards the inner part of the city.  Short of the formal gardens that led 
to the heart of Caras Galadhon, she started up the stairs that led to the talan she was to call home.  Entering it, she 
recalled the first time she had visited Haldir’s home.  A child, barely fifteen, she had huddled in the middle of the large 
living room, afraid to approach any of the windows.  Deep down, the fear was still there, but maturity had learned to 
overcome most of the nausea from the heights.  

	She went to the bedroom and surveyed the room carefully.  Opening the large wardrobe, she laid the last of the 
bed sheets that she had brought up.  The shelves held the sheets and pillow slips that Gariel and Lindelen had gifted 
her with along with the beautiful bed covering Meliel had brought up her last visit to her mother’s home in Caras 
Galadhon.  There were also bath sheets resting on their own shelf.  In the small bathing room off the bedroom, Ela 
checked the small cupboard, insuring herself that it was stocked with the bathing supplies they would need.  Going 
back out to the bedroom, she looked once again at the large bed.  Never had Ela seen such a bed, except her 
father’s at home.  She had resisted the temptation of even sitting on it, wanting the first time to be when they shared 
it together.  Glancing at the nightstand beside the bed, Ela could not resist that temptation.  On impulse, she opened 
the drawer.  There, lying inside by itself was a children’s grammar book of Quenyan, her book.  She supposed she 
should have been surprised to find it there, but she was not.  She knew she was not careless, nor had she lost the 
book.  Had she really wanted to think about it, the only explanation was that Haldir had taken the book.  After all, he 
was the one who had given it to her.  Instead of anger, she felt a kind of humour; that it was a book he chose to 
keep to remember her by, when she had left.  Replacing the book, she picked up the almost empty basket and 
returned to the living room.  Placing the napkins and tablecloths from the bottom of the basket on the shelves in the 
kitchen, she turned to survey the large room.  The same sofas and table set were there.  They were little worn, since 
the brothers had not used the residence much.  

	Hanging on the wall was the copy of the coat of arms that her grandmother had given her.  It looked oddly out 
of place in the small surroundings, but Haldir had insisted that it be hung, nonetheless.  She determined to devise 
one for his family, in the future.  After all, their children would need a heritage to point to, and she would never allow 
their father to be diminished by their mother’s heritage.	

	Satisfied, she started out the door, and back down the stairs.  Thinking about him made her almost miss a step.  
Smiling, she recalled the look on his face when he rode into the southern station.  Her visit with Meliel had gone well, 
and she was ready to go home.  

	She had sensed his concern, but felt him relax when he realized that all was well with her.  They had not 
discussed the incident in Spring Grove, and she was happy enough to forget it.  

	Ela did not recall much of her ordeal, only the sense of loss that she could not explain.  Discussions with Lady 
Galadriel had shed no light on what had happened, and Glordinel had noticed her reluctance to do more than aid him, 
but had not commented.  

	Reaching the bottom of the stairs, Ela jumped the last two steps.  Only two more days!  Her excitement was barely contained.  Two more days, and then they left for Imladris.  Her bags were packed, the plans were all laid and only two more days!  Suddenly, she felt the urge to hurry home.  Walking quickly, she absently nodded to anyone she 
knew in passing.

	Bursting through the door to the house, Ela rushed back the hallway to her room.  It was rather bare, now that 
she had moved most of her things to the talan.  Only a couple of books and a bottle of oil remained, along with the 
clothes she needed until their departure.  Opening the bag containing her wedding dress, she gave it a final perusal.    

	The soft grey of the silk was offset by the dark blue embroidering along the bodice.  The blue butterflies seemed 
poised, waiting for the chance to fly away.  The filmy gauze of the dark overskirt was open in the centre to expose 
the lighter grey of the skirt.  The dress would drop to the ground; a right proper gown, down to the small grey 
slippers that matched.  Carefully placing it back into the bag, she picked up the small wooden box from the 
nightstand; inside were a necklace and bracelet set with dark sapphires.  They were a wedding gift from Haldir, 
bought on his last trip to Gondor.  He refused to buy her earrings, but had made sure that they matched the ones 
Elrohir had given her when she was fifteen.  In return, she had managed to acquire a vambrace and shield worked in 
steel.  The device in the centre of the shield showed a snow leopard fending off a dragon while an eagle attacked 
from above, swooping in to do battle.  Her gifts were safely stowed in Imladris, waiting for their arrival.  

	Hearing footsteps in the outer hallway, Ela closed the box and placed it in the bag with her dress.  Tying the 
straps tightly, she turned as Gariel came to her door.  Smiling at the older woman, she sighed in contentment.

	“I have two days.  Then, we are off.”

	“Yes,” said Gariel, a smile tugging at her lips.  She remembered her own anticipation, waiting for Orophin.  How 
long the few weeks would seem.  “Have you heard from Meliel?”

	“They arrive tomorrow.  Delinfel is complaining that I planned this time purposely to upset him.  I did point out 
that it was their choice to have a child, not mine.  They could have waited.”

	“I am sure everything will work out.  Now, I think that Glordinel asked to see you yet today.  Will you be back for 
supper?”

	“I believe so.  I have no reason to think otherwise.  I am finished in the talan; all my things here are packed.  I 
am ready to leave.”

	“Very well.  Supper will be light tonight.  Tomorrow, we will eat early.  You do not want to go to bed on a full 
stomach and then spend the next day ruing it.”  Gariel turned back towards the kitchen.

	“Has Elldar returned?” Ela asked, hesitantly.  She knew how his parents felt about his trips to Mirkwood.

	“I think he has.”  Gariel’s answer was carefully even.  His parents were proud of the trust given their son, but 
did not appreciate the need he felt to spend so much time in Mirkwood.  

	“Well, I will see him at supper, then.”  Ela quietly left.



	~*~*~*~*~*~*~



	“Good morning, Lord Glordinel,” Ela called as she skipped up the steps to his office.

	“Back here,” came from somewhere farther down the hall.

	Stopping in the doorway to the sorting room, Ela surveyed her teacher, up to his elbows in fresh herbs.

	“Good morning, Lady Elrénia.”  He smiled at her wince.  “Now, if I do not remember to use your proper name 
occasionally, you will forget it yourself.”

	“That would not displease me in the least.  I like my name the way it is.”

	“Where did it come from,” he asked, curious.  “I do not think I have ever asked that.  It is not elven.”

	She shrugged.  “My mother.  She let my father name me, but she shortened it out of habit.  Her people usually 
have names of one or two syllables.  She may have eschewed the customs of her people, but some habits die hard.  I 
was only called by my proper name when I was in trouble.  My father used the name because of her.  So, I never 
really heard my real name, as I was always the perfect child.”  She grinned wickedly.

	“I entertain doubts as to your perfection.  Enlighten me, while you help me lay these out to dry.”

	Washing her hands in the basin on a table, she spent the next hour laying the bright green leaves out on 
cloth-covered boards to dry.  The conversation consisted of questions from Glordinel, answered by Ela.  Satisfied that 
she was not lacking in knowledge, he wondered how to broach the subject of his summons.

	“There,” he said.  “All finished.  Come to my office.  I have something for you.”  She washed her hands once 
more, and then walked the short hall to his office.  The shelves surrounding three of the walls were laden with books 
and skeletons of small animals.  Seated at the desk, Glordinel looked up as she entered the room.  Picking up a small 
book, he handed it to her.  Opening it, she found it blank.  Glancing at him questioningly, she waited.

	“It is a journal, for you to write down your daily doings.”

	She nodded, still confused.

	“I want you to start with Spring Grove.”  He held up a hand as she started to protest.  “It is important.  To you, 
and to me.  Ela,” he said gently, “you have not been the same since then.  You have the knowledge and the 
compassion, but you have avoided any opportunity to use your skills.  It is something that bothers both the Lady and 
me.”

	She avoided his eyes, instead looking out the window.  Turning back, she said simply, “It is gone.”

	“What do you mean, it is gone”? he asked.

	“There is nothing there.  I know what to do.  I know how to do it.  I just feel that something that should be 
there is not.  And, I know when it left.”

	He thought on her words.  “Have you tried?”

	She shook her head.  “I see no point.  It is gone.  I can aid you, I can still do some things, but the ability to heal 
is no longer there.”

	“Well, let me tell you what I see.  You have a gift, one that was well on its way to being exceptional.  I have 
seen you throw yourself, your whole being into healing.  Then, you tried to help a small child that was too far gone.  
You went beyond your limits, to find that there was a new level.  You pushed yourself past what was prudent, to 
save the life of that child.  Without thinking of yourself, or what could happen.  You succeeded, but now you fear that 
you have opened a door that you cannot close.  You fear that since you almost paid for that child with your own life, 
the next time you will die.”  He waited, but she said nothing.  “Sell, you cannot live that way.  You, yourself, have said 
many times that fear of tomorrow should not cloud today.  Have you forgotten?”

	She bit her lip.  “No, but you did not feel it.  It was worse than death.  It was nothing.  Nothing, and pain.”

	He nodded.  “I understand your fear, but what will happen when you are faced with the decision of life and 
death and you are all that stands in between?”

	“I do not know.  I know that I do not want to make that choice, but I would not let another die, if I could stop it.”

	“That is why I want to you use the journal.  Start at the beginning, just before what happened with the child.  
Write down your feelings, your daily routine.  Write about the little things you may forget the next day.  Let the 
journal help you.”

	Still not convinced, she agreed to try it.  She laid the journal down as Glordinel handed her a leather bag.  The 
size of a small courier bag, she opened it to discover that it was full of little bags and jars.  There were dried herbs 
and salves, held firmly in place by ties.  A pocket in the inside front held a book of common uses for the medicines.  
Another pocket, in the back was just big enough to hold her journal, which she found out when Glordinel placed it 
there.  The whole thing would fit in the shoulder bag she usually carried when travelling.  Looking up at him, Ela had 
tears in her eyes.

	“You place much faith in me,” she said softly.

	“It is not misplaced.  I believe in you, because you believed in yourself.  Find that faith you once had.”  His words 
were soft and gentle.  

	“Thank you.  I just may be able to do that.”  She paused.  “You have taught me so much.  How could I ever have 
thought that coming here would be a disaster?”

	“Coming from what you did, it may have seemed that way.”

	“Do you remember the first time we spoke?” she asked.  At his nod, she continued, “I thought you a most 
improper elf, undignified and very lax in your life.  But, you have given me so much.”

	“It is odd that I think the same of you, except you have always taken yourself too seriously.  I would like to think 
that I have taught you to relax and live.”

	“Oh, you did that,” she retorted.  “Much to the chagrin of our esteemed march warden.  He despaired my ever 
growing up and taking life seriously.  Now, it is my turn to teach him to live.  I daresay that I will have much more fun 
that did you.”  The wicked gleam was back in her eyes.  

	Laughing, Glordinel shooed her out of his office and out onto the porch.  “Get going, child.  I am sure there are 
others you can be bothering.”

	“Yes, there are.  I think I will go and see how the horses are.  Maybe take a ride.  I think that my time will not 
afford such pastimes for a while.  Goodbye, Lord Glordinel.  I will see you when I return.”  

	Hurrying down the steps and down the road, she did not hear his soft answer: “Goodbye, my lady.”


Chapter 12 - Chapter Twelve

Sadron shook his head.  Catching the smells of the valley he had known growing up, he was excited.  Ela was torn between laughter and irritation at his antics.  Calming him yet again, she grinned as he quieted, but still trembled.  She knew exactly how he felt.  The valley did the same to her.

	The journey across the plains had been uneventful.  Haldir had been hard pressed to get her to stop at night.  
If not for the horses needing the rest, he would not have been able to do so.  He could not remember the last time 
she had been so eager to reach her childhood home.  Smiling to himself, he nudged his horse down the trail through 
the pass, leading the way, Ela following with the pack horse.  

	They had managed to fill the days with talk of the future: their plans for the new house, the fact that Ela did 
not plan to remain in the city, what to do with her house in Imladris.  The one subject they danced around was 
children.  Haldir had not thought much on the subject, and Ela did not seem in a hurry to start a family.  

	She had shown him the changes in the talan he and Rúmil had shared for more years than he cared to 
remember.  His approval had been met with an embrace and a quick kiss.  He was amused that the closer the time 
approached to leave Lórien, the more restless Ela became.  She now, more than ever, resembled the butterfly Rúmil 
had teasingly called her.  

	Now, on the last leg of their journey, Ela seemed unable to hold herself back.  Unable to see the houses in the 
valley yet, she pushed as fast as she could down the narrow trail.  

	“Ela, slow down,” Haldir laughed at her.  “You will go over the side.”

	“Not likely,” she said.  “Sadron would not allow it.”

	“Why are you in such a hurry?  We have two weeks yet before wedding.”

	“Can I tell you something?”  She lowered her voice to almost a whisper.

	“You can tell me anything,” was his reply.

	“I am tired of waiting.”

	Not understanding, at first, Haldir suddenly burst out laughing as he realized what she meant.

	“What is so funny?” she demanded.  “Tell me you are not.”

	“I will tell you no such thing.  I just find it humorous that you are so eager.”

	“Why?” she asked, stopping her horse and cocking her head at him.  “Because you are so careful of putting up 
a front of soberness?  I have kept my feelings to myself for the last year.  I am tired of doing so.  I happen to know 
that things are not always so prim and sober behind closed doors.”

	Glancing at the mountains to the north, he looked back at her.  “What things?”  The laughter was gone, but 
not the twinkle in his eyes.

	“Things,” she said.  “Things for a wedded couple.  Those things.”

	“And where did you learn of…these things?”  He drew his words out.

	“The stables, where every elfling learns of such things.  Where did you think?  Lord Glordinel?”

	“The stables.”  He was silent.  “And what did you learn in the stables?”

	“Well, I will tell you this, you will have to wait to find out!” she exclaimed, pushing ahead of him, across the 
lower ridge and out of sight.  

	She had disappeared by the time he finally got his horse turned around and moving.  He came upon her 
waiting on the last cliff before the drop into the valley.  She was gazing out over the valley below.  Following the 
direction she was facing, he saw Imladris, laid out before him.  Yet several hours away, it was still breathtaking.  Ela 
looked back at him as he approached.

     “Is it not beautiful?”  Her voice was breathless.

     “It is, indeed.  I can see why you love it here.  It does have a beauty that Lórien does not.”

     “Lórien has its own beauty.  It is quiet and dark.  It envelops you like a blanket.  It is warm and secure.”  She 
stood as he came up behind her.

     “I have never seen it that way.  I can see where you might, though.  Do you miss the woods, then?”

     “I love everything about Lórien.  It is my home.”  She looked back into his eyes.

     “I will be most happy to return.  This place is too peaceful for my tastes.  I miss the routine of the marches.”  He 
smiled at the thought.  

     She laughed at him.  Turning back around, she leaned against him.  He reached out and wrapped his arms 
around her.

     “You should smile more often,” she told him.  “It makes you look less stern.”

     “I do not think anyone would like a smiling captain on the marches.  I find people tend to pay more attention if 
you are not smiling.”

     “Unfortunately, I must agree.  It is too bad.”

     They stood quietly for a long while.  The wind had picked up and was getting cooler.  He watched her stare out 
into the distance.  

	“Can we stay here tonight?  Just arrive in the morning?”  Her sudden shift in desire to reach Imladris startled 
him.  But the pleading in her voice touched him.

	“What of your father?  Will he not worry?”  He watched her for several moments as she stood, her eyes slightly 
out of focus.

	“He knows we are here,” she said.  “He will wait.”  Haldir did not question how she knew.  He just accepted.  
One of many things he was resigned to accept.



~*~*~*~*~*~*~



	The sun rising was yet an event waiting to occur when Ela stirred.  The blankets did little to soften the hard 
ground.  The only comfort was the arms that pillowed her head and wrapped around her.  Smiling, she tried to slip 
out of the embrace that had held her through the night.

	“You are too noisy,” came the whisper from behind her.  Grinning, Haldir let her up.  She turned, dropping dried 
leaves from a sheltered hollow on him.  Slipping just beyond his reach as he made a grab for her, she jumped up 
and ran for the trees.  By the time she had returned minutes later, a cold meal had been laid out on a rock.

	“Enjoy this,” she said, between bites of her sandwich.  “After this meal, it will be those lavish affairs we both 
dread so.”  

	“I know.  The one reason I gave in to you last night.  I was frankly surprised that you would tarry so, this close 
to Imladris.”

	“Well,” she replied, “This was our last night to just enjoy the peace and quiet of bachelorhood.  Rarely will we 
know this solitude once we return to Caras Galadhon.  I just wanted one last night without all the fuss that is sure 
to be my lot the next two weeks.  Did you not enjoy it?”  Her grin was irrepressible.  

	“I did,” he admitted.  “You know I am not one for the fuss,” he said, stressing the word she had used, “that 
seems to accompany you.  However,” he held up his hand at her protest, “I am willing to tolerate most of it.  I hope 
you do not intend dinner to be so formal in our own home.”

	“That would depend on what you cook,” she retorted.  

	“Me?  How did I become the cook?”

	“You have tasted my efforts at cooking.  If I am responsible for the meals, we will both starve.”  Her face said 
that she was no more inclined to eat her own cooking that was he.  He laughed and conceded.

	“Very well.  When we are away from home, I will cook.  When we are at home, we will have to see if we can 
bribe Gariel to do it.”

	“Home.  That sounds so wonderful.”  The wistfulness in her voice brought a slight smile to his lips.

	“Come on.”  He broke the mood.  Reaching down, he picked up the saddle he had used for a pillow.  Throwing 
it up over his horse’s back, he watched Ela do the same to Sadron. 

	Mounting their horses, they began a leisurely ride down the side of the mountain.  The trail eventually brought 
them out in the meadow above Cabel’s home.  Sadron, now knowing exactly where he was, picked up the pace until 
they were in the lower forest.  Galloping through the trees on the faint path, he moved into a full run when the 
forest thinned out to grass.  Approaching the river, there was no hesitation in his steps.  He gathered himself for 
the jump and sailed across the narrow waterway.  At a word, he stopped and Ela turned to see Haldir’s horse clear 
the near shore, but the landing was not smooth; the pack horse was more graceful.  Catching himself to keep from 
falling, Ela turned away to keep from laughing.  Composing herself, she waited until he caught up with her.  They 
slowly moved away from the river, closer now to Cabel’s house.

	A child’s cry hailed them as the rounded the path in front of the house.

	“Nana, nana, come see!”  He ran into the house calling his mother.  Running back out he jumped from the 
porch to the ground, running to meet them.  Lutheliel came from the house, wiping her hands on a towel.  Her smile 
was radiant.  

	“Welcome back!” she called, coming out to meet them.  “Are you just arriving?”

	“Yes,” Haldir answered.  He sorely wanted to dismount, but they had yet to cross the meadow to the stables.  

	“Then, you had best get going.  Lord Elrond was expecting you last evening.  I would not be surprised if he did 
not watch you now, from across the valley.  Go!  I will see you later.”  Her admonishments spurred them on.  Racing 
across the meadow, Ela held Sadron back.  Haldir rode beside her.  When they approached the gate, both horses 
slowed down to a walk, Haldir’s breathing hard while Sadron did not appear winded in the least.  Entering the 
paddock area, Haldir dismounted, coming around to hand Ela down from her horse.  Leading both animals into the 
barn, He found three stalls and space for their gear ready and waiting.  Removing the tack and stowing it away, 
they brushed down the horses.  When they were finished, Ela handed a young stable hand the lead to Haldir’s 
horse, asking him to walk it down.  The lad nodded and trotted out with the horse.  Sadron was placed in a 
paddock, where he immediately rolled in the long grass, leaving green streaks on his white coat.

	Grabbing their personal baggage, Haldir led the way from the barn.  They crossed the small area between the 
barn and the road, Haldir taking Ela’s hand as she crossed the deep ditch along the road.  Ela did not release his 
hand when she was firmly on the road, and thus they made their way to the steps that led to the terrace.

~*~*~*~*~*

	Standing in a window off the terrace, Elrond watched as they came across the road.  He noted with satisfaction 
the contentment on Ela’s face.  She was very animated as they talk while climbing the steps.  He was gratified that 
she appeared happy.  It had been his one worry.

	Leaving the small window, he went down the hall to the terrace doors.  Sweeping through them, he was waiting when they topped the stairs.  Ela immediately rushed into his arms, bubbling with excitement.  He could not believe this was the same child who had been so sober.  Ah, well, Glordinel had written him that she would come into her own.  It seemed she had; it had just not been what Elrond had expected.

	“Well, Iell, how was your journey?”  He brushed a stray hair from her forehead.

	“It was wonderful.  The ride across the plains was exceedingly boring, for which I am grateful.  The ride across 
the mountains was beautiful.  I hope we did not upset any plans by tarrying an extra night.”

	“No, you did not.  I had anticipated that you would not want a big reception your first night here.  You missed 
nothing.”  He turned to her escort.  “Welcome, Haldir.  Your rooms are waiting, and I am sure you would like to 
freshen up.  Lunch will be on the back terrace.   Ela, you will have a guest this evening for dinner.”

 	“Dorga,” she guessed.  “It will be good to see him.  Letters are no substitute.  Now, with your leave, I would 
love a hot bath.  That dip I had in a cold stream was less than comfortable.  So,” she said, picking up her bag, “I am 
off to find some comfort.  Are you coming?”   She turned to Haldir.

	“I will be up shortly.  Go, get your hot bath.”  He laughed, wanting only the same.

	Elrond watched her leave, then faced Haldir.  “She looks happy.”

	“She is happy.  I have never seen her so alive.  The only trouble has been from the incident at Spring Grove.  
She has not been the same since then.”

	There was a moment of silence.  “Glordinel thinks it is temporary, until she realizes that there is nothing wrong.  
What do you feel?”

	Haldir was not comfortable discussing things about which he was not sure.  Ela’s lack of confidence in her 
abilities was being handled by Glordinel and the Lady.  It was an area with which he was not familiar.

	“I trust Lady Galadriel to know how best to help Ela.  For the moment, she is accepting.  As you said, Glordinel 
and the Lady both believe that Ela will regain her abilities.”  Haldir kept it as simple as possible, a fact that was not 
lost on Elrond.

	With a wave of his hand, the lord of Imladris invited Haldir into the house.  Picking up his bag, the march 
warden preceded Elrond through the doors.  The cool of the house was a welcome change from the heat that was 
beginning to build outside.  The darker interior enveloped one with the promise of a pleasant afternoon.  Haldir 
dropped his bag at the foot of the stairs, following Elrond to his office.

	Pouring two glasses of wine, Elrond indicated the chairs by the window.  Haldir took a glass and settled into 
one of the plush seats.  He waited until Elrond was ready to speak.

	“There is the matter of Ela’s dowry.  Her father left her a small fortune and I am aware there is an estate 
located in the White Mountains.  Lady Elestra has indicated that she would put up an amount that would be in 
keeping with Ela’s position.”

	“Ela will have none of it,” was Haldir’s firm response.

	“It is not hers to refuse.  It belongs to you both.  You have the right to accept it.”  Elrond waited to see what 
the answer would be.

	“Would you start our marriage off with such a great potential for mischief, my lord?”  Haldir’s voice was light 
and sure of his reply.  “I have no need of more than I already have.  Lord Celeborn provides well enough for the 
both of us.  And, if nothing else, we could be happy on the profits from Ela’s gambling.  So far, no horse put up 
against Sadron has won.”

	Elrond laughed and rose to get more wine.  “I knew what the answer would be, but I had to ask.  I will keep it 
here, if ever either of you should need it.  Now, to more pleasant things.  Would you care to go hunting tomorrow?  
I need the exercise, and Glorfindel is getting restless.  Next week, he is going to the Shire to fetch Rosa.  
Meanwhile, he chafes at the quiet around us.”

	“He should learn to appreciate that quiet.  Too quickly it can turn to more than anticipated.”

	“Ah, yes.  Well, Glorfindel has not learned to settle down, yet.  It may be that I will need to send him out 
beyond our borders soon.  How is Lórien?”  

	“It fares.  There is some unease, but nothing has appeared.  Lord Celeborn is confident that his Lady will know 
when things stir.”

	“And they are to arrive later this week.  I have lodging arranged.  Most will stay here; the rest may have the 
use of the barracks.  They are quite comfortable.  Now,” Elrond paused, “You are wanting a bath and a chance to 
refresh yourself, I am sure.  Erentil will see you to your room.”  He watched as Haldir left the room.  

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

	Ela was soaking in the large tub just off her room.  Her hair was washed and pinned up on her head.  The 
fumes from the hot water bore the scent of lavender.  She dozed lightly in the comfort of being in Elrond’s home, 
letting the water and the quiet ease the discomfort of living in a saddle for several days.  Her subconscious went through the list of things she would be doing for the next week.  She really did not want to think past then.  

	“Ela!”  The call from her room woke her.  She smiled.  Trust that Erestor would send word to see her.

	“I am in here, my lady.  I am just finishing up.”  Her eyes showed welcome and pleasure as Seldala came to 
stand in the doorway.  

	“It is good to see you.”  Seldala drew back as Ela pulled the plug in the bottom of the tub, waiting until the girl 
had wrapped a sheet around herself and came into the bedroom.  

	“My husband would speak with you, at your earliest convenience.”  Seldala’s  firm voice was the one feminine 
influence of her childhood.

	“I will stop by the library after lunch,” replied Ela, looking forward to the meeting.

	Her room had not changed since she had moved to Lórien, only her things were gone.  Ela moved to the 
screen in the corner where a dark green dress hung.  Dropping the sheet, she drew on a white chemise.  Buttoning 
it up, she pulled the under-slip over her head, smoothing it down over her body.  Moving from the screen, she let 
Seldala help her with the dress.  The emerald material draped from her hips to her ankles, and fit to perfection.  A 
year’s time had not seen any changes in Ela, unless it was the added glow to her cheeks and the light in her eyes.

	Finally ready, she glanced into the mirror one last time.  All was perfect.  Ela took Seldala’s arm as they went 
downstairs, chatting about the last few months.  When the reached the dining room, all but two of the chairs were 
occupied.  

	The ladies waited until their respective men held their chairs for them.  Haldir recalled a comment once made to 
his youngest brother concerning the courtly manners that Ela had grown up with and how quickly they would be lost 
in Lórien.  However, Ela had never swayed in her quiet expectations, and Haldir found himself yet again bowing to 
her silent demands.  He chuckled at his unwillingness to now do so, gaining a questioning look from her.

	Once all were seated, Dalgren began directing the kitchen staff to the placing of the various dishes.  The girls 
were kept busy with removing the dishes as they emptied, and refilling cups.  The meal was heavier than usual for 
mid-day, but still light, by Imladris’ standards.  Both Haldir and Ela found it overmuch for so early in the day, but did 
not complain.  Ela passed on the wine, knowing that there would be more of the spirits at dinner.  Haldir drank only 
one cup before finishing with water.  

	Conversation drifted back and forth with updates from both realms.  The chatter was lively as Erestor and 
Elrond questioned Haldir on the conditions east of Lórien, while Seldala and Ela discussed the upcoming wedding.  
Even Dalgren was pulled into the conversation, as she was planning the feast.  Glorfindel mentioned hunting later in 
the week.    

	Finally, Erestor excused himself to finish lessons with Arnor.  Cabel’s son had grown into a serious lad of six 
years.  His reddish brown hair gave away his Indrelan blood, but his development was quite ahead of that 
experienced by those of his father’s blood.  Erestor found him as intellectually lively as any of his charges over the 
last years.  

	After lunch, Ela wandered to the library.  Expecting to find Erestor there, she was surprised it was empty.  
Crossing the threshold, she glanced around the large room.  Elrond had collected many books and scrolls through 
the millennia.  It hardly seemed possible that some of the writings here were thousands of years old.  

	Walking over to the shelves behind the ornate desk, Ela’s eyes fell on the solitary box on a lower shelf.  She 
knew what was in the box, but had not seen its contents in over twenty years.  Afraid to touch it, she marvelled 
that therein resided her entire history before coming here.  Just the thought of what lay in there brought up 
thoughts of her parents.

	“Adar, I only wish it were you to do this for me.”  Her habit of talking to her father as if he were present had 
increased over the years.  The dream she had experienced in which she and Del had been to the Halls of Namo had 
only made it clear to her that her father was still present, if only in her mind.  

	“I know that Lord Elrond has been very good to me.  He gave me so much more than needed.  But, it is you I 
miss.  I wanted so fervently to come to you, but others, wisely, would not allow it.  Now, I stand on the brink of a 
new life, and I have no family of my own with which to share it.  I wish you could know Haldir.  Deep within his 
heart, he is so kind.  Not many see it, but I did.  I can see our children, and him spoiling them as you did me.  I can 
imagine the secrets kept from their mother, the way we kept them from mine.  In two weeks, I will know the 
happiness that you shared with my mother.  How I wish I could ask you how to keep that happiness.”  The tears 
that had formed in her eyes spilled down her cheeks.  “There are times I thought that if I had not been, you would 
still be alive.  But, then no, it was not me that caused your death, it was the love you shared with my mother.  Still, had you never met her, you would be here, but then, I would not.”  Her thoughts travelled no rational road, just swirled around her sorrow.  “Still, fate is not to be cheated.  If not my mother, then something else would have been your downfall, so at least you had that happiness.”  Hearing a slight noise in the hall, she wiped her eyes and turned, for once unaware she had been watched.

	“Do you want to see it?”  Elrond’s question startled Ela.  “The box.  Do you want to see it?”  She had forgotten 
all about the box.

	“No.  There is no need.  It has nothing of interest for me, right now.  Maybe when I am old and grey and the 
Indrel are history, then I will want it back.”  Sighing, she walked to he window, looking up at the tall mountains.  

“Do you miss Celebrian?”  Her question, in turn, startled Elrond.  She had never asked about his wife.

	“Very much.  Why do you ask?”  Despite the stab of pain through his heart, he was very much interested in 
where she was going with the question.

	“It must be of great comfort to know that your lady is just over the sea, and you can join her any time you so 
choose.  I cannot join my father.  He is beyond my reach.  I have no idea where my mother is, only that she lives.”  
Ela paused, continuing to gaze at the mountains.  “They are taller than the White Mountains, but really not so 
different.  There is a glade beside a small river there.  A house, built of stones carefully chosen and laid with love and laughter, sits in the glade.  In that house much was accomplished.  Two worlds became one.  And from that I came.  Such a mixture of what is.  Am I Indrelan, or am I elven?  Or does something far darker rest in the blood?“  Turning, she faced him.  “Have you never wondered that my grandfathers are not mentioned in my genealogy?  You have found one of them.  Who is the other?  And, who would know?”  She waited, expectantly.

	“I know of only one person who would know.”  Elrond’s voice was low and hesitant.  “I know that you do not 
want contact with your mother’s people, but I have heard from one who may interest you.”

	“You found my mother?”  Ela’s curiosity was peaked.  Her early years were filled with a longing to know, but 
once she had met her uncle and his ilk, her desire was quenched.  No longer did she dream of what might have 
been.  She knew her place was here, among her father’s kin.

	“No, Iell.  I have heard nothing concerning your mother.  However, I have heard from a woman claiming to be 
your grandmother.”  He waited to see her reaction.

	“Gorden.”  The reaction was level, with no emotion whatsoever.

	“Yes,” he said, surprised that she would remember after so long.  It had been a name on the genealogy chart, 
and a half-remembered memory from her mother.  “I waited to see what you want to do.”

	“About what?  I have had nothing but trouble from those people.  I am not sure that I wish to have anything 
else to do with them.  Whatever she wants cannot lead to any good for me.”  She turned back to the window.

	“Oh, Elrénia.”  She felt him move behind her.  Gently turning her around, he placed a finger under her chin, 
raising her head until she was gazing into his eyes.  “You cannot run from your past,” he said softly.  “You faced it 
once before.  Do you not think it time to face and settle it once and for all?  You cannot want your fear to track you 
your whole life.”  He waited, seeing she would not answer.  “Think on it.  You have enough to dwell on this week, 
the woman can wait.  She has waited this long.”

	“Thank you, Ada, for everything.”  Ela moved so that she was in his arms.  The comfort she had always felt 
when he embraced her enveloped her yet again.  If only she could feel her own father’s love this way.  

	“You are most welcome, for everything.  Now,” he said, moving back to arms’ length.  “Cabal requested that I 
give you a message after lunch.  He would like to see you to discuss your house and property.  He wants to make 
some changes that he feels you should approve.”

	“Very well,” she replied, smiling up at him.  “I want to visit with him, anyway.  I have some questions of my 
own.  I think I will give Sadron a run down the valley first.  I do not want him getting stiff after that long ride.  He 
does not get as much exercise in Lórien.  And, no one will race us anymore.  I may find a few takers in the village.”

	“Enjoy your afternoon.  Do not forget Dorga will be here this evening.  Nothing formal, just a small dinner with 
your friends.”  Elrond was well aware of Ela’s dislike for the formal dinners; the dress was bad enough, but the rich 
food did not sit in her stomach as well as when she was younger.  Lórien had made subtle changes in her, as she 
had made some of her own.

	Kissing Elrond lightly on the cheek, Ela left the library, running up the stairs to her room to change.  Coming 
back out, she met Haldir in the hallway.  He noted the different attire, her leather trousers she wore for riding and 
the blue over-tunic.  

	“Are you going riding?” he asked.  “One would think a week in the saddle would have worn out that desire.”  
The slight smile on his lips spilled into a grin.

	“Sadron needs a good run.  I would not have him stiff from lack of activity.  Then I want to visit with Cabal and 
Lutheliel.  Would you like to join me?”  Her teasing look could not be resisted.

	“I suppose that if you are up to it, I can be no less.  I will meet you in the lower hall.”  She nodded and walked 
down the hall.

	Their afternoon was spent leisurely riding through the village, then an all out run back up the valley along the 
river.  The two hours spent with Ela’s cousin was enjoyable.  Haldir went with Cabal, allowing the Indrelan to get an 
ellon’s perspective; and Haldir found out a few things about the Indrelen that confirmed Ela’s opinions about her 
mother’s people.  Ela meanwhile spent her time with Lutheliel, conversing in her native dialect, as the northern 
elvish was not quite the same as the Silvan.  Arnor ran back and forth between the two couples, enjoying attention 
given him by everyone.  Little Debyn cooed from her cradle. 

	Ela glanced around her former home.  It was fuller than she had kept it, but then, there had been only her and 
her grandmother there for any length of time.  The bookshelves were full of books from the third shelf up; the 
bottom given over to various playthings that belonged to Arnor.  The liqueur cabinet contained drink ware and a few 
small knick-knacks.  The dining room had not changed.  Likewise, the kitchen was still well stocked and looked to be 
the main room used.

	Finally, it was time to leave.  Ela kissed her cousin goodbye, promising to meet with him later to discuss his 
ideas for the house.  Haldir said his farewells, turning to help Ela to mount her horse.  The ride back to the stables 
was spent in silent contemplation of an afternoon pleasantly spent.

	The next day, Haldir disappeared early in the morning.  He and Dorga had closeted themselves the night 
before, which surprised Ela, as she knew how Haldir felt about dwarves.

	Entering the village, the Marchwarden of Lord Celeborn strode purposely down the main street, stopping at a 
large and expensive home.  Knocking on the door, he waited until a young dwarf opened the door.  Squeaking in 
astonishment, the boy ran back to workshop behind the house, leaving the tall elf standing in the street.  
Disgusted, Haldir took it upon himself to enter the house.  He remained by the entry until a familiar voice boomed a 
welcome.

	“Right on time, I see.  Well, come in, come in.”  Dorga waved Haldir into a comfortable sitting room.  Taking a 
chair near the door, the elf sat down.  He watched as Dorga placed a small table in front of him.  Reaching into his 
pocket, the dwarf then drew out a small black bag.  Laying it gently on the table, he took the chair opposite Haldir.

	“I hope these are to your liking.  Ela was very specific in what she wanted.”  He shook the bag gently and laid 
the contents on the empty container.

	Finally finished, forged from the lifeblood flowing through the heart of Arda, they had been crafted with care 
and patience.  Haldir reached out and picked up the smaller ring, held it in his hand; it was as beautiful as the hand 
it would one day grace.  Picking up the larger circle, he marvelled at the delicate etching of vines along the edges of 
both rings.  Inside was an inscription: ‘I will love you until death, and even then will I wait here for you‘.  

	Placing the rings on the tabletop, he glanced at the creator.  Dorga’s friendship had been but part of the 
weaving that had cradled his betrothed since her troubled childhood.  Now, the caring would fall on him.  

	“Would you add an inscription to her ring?”  His soft request struck Dorga.  Gone was the arrogance that 
usually tinged the elf’s dealings with him.  “I would like it to say: ‘Nothing more will I ever ask of you‘.”

	“Certainly,” replied Dorga, just as softly.

	With un-begrudged admiration, he quietly thanked the dwarf.  

	The dwarf mumbled his welcome to the elf’s thank you.  Despite their races’ mutual dislike, he respected this 
one, if only for her sake.


Chapter 13 - Chapter Thirteen

The days flew by.  Family and friends arrived from Lórien; Rosa surprised Ela and they spent an afternoon reminiscing and laughing; Haldir lost himself in hunting, first with Glorfindel, then with Elrohir and Elladan when they arrived.  Gariel and Delinfel exclaimed of the beauty of Imladris.  Elrond’s usually quiet and sedate house was anything but, while his household was thrown into welcome disarray.  

	Finally, the day before the wedding, finishing touches were all that were left to do.  Large tents were set up in the field below to accommodate the guests; everyone in Imladris was invited.  The only thing wanting was the ceremony itself.  

	Early in the morning, Ela rose and dressing quickly, escaped the house before many were awake.  Running 
down to the stables, she called Sadron to the gate.  Tying on the thin straps to his halter, she climbed the fence and 
jumped to his back.  As if knowing where they were going, he whirled around and ran for the closed gate.  Sailing 
over it, they ran hard for the river.

	Ela had purposely waited until now to go to the upper meadows.  She did not want any to follow her.  This was 
her last ride into the past; a confrontation that she alone could make.  No one else would understand it.

	Riding swiftly through the lower forest and up the incline into the heights, Ela silently pushed Sadron.  She 
would be missed before long and did not want any well-meaning search to interfere.  The horse bore his burden and 
the pace with equal ease.  His line was a noble and hardy one, bred for a millennia to carry men whatever their 
purpose.  The tie between this particular pair was stronger than would have been imagined by his breeders.  The 
Rohirrim raised their allies from birth, giving them all that was required within the horses lifetime.  In return, the rider 
gained a trustworthy companion and a dependable partner in battle.  The cord binding them was difficult to sever.  
The bond between Ela and Sadron went beyond even this.  It was as if there were no communication gaps; no 
difference in race or language.  One asked, the other complied.  Ela accepted it as normal, therefore she told no one 
about it, and any who would care were otherwise engaged in survival.

	Cresting the final climb to her destination, Ela slowed Sadron with a touch on his neck.  Gazing back the way 
they had come, she was satisfied that they were not followed.  Turning up the valley, she rode at a slow canter.  He 
would know by now that she was here.

	Stepping from the trees, the tall being stood waiting.  From a distance, and without the gift of eyesight 
bestowed upon the elves, he looked to be a man.  Only closer examination would reveal that here stood one of the despised race: an orc.  Stopping her horse mere yards from the sworn enemy of all of Arda, Ela slid from Sadron’s 
back.  Approaching sedately, even regally, Ela stopped before him.  

	“Drakar,” she said, inclining her head.

	“Lady Elrénia,” he answered, bowing slightly.  “It has been awhile.”

	“I have only just returned from Lórien the past week.  I tried to find you before I left Imladris, but you were 
gone.”  She looked him in the eyes- his dark and tortured eyes.

	“I do not have the time to dance attendance upon you,” he growled.

	“And yet, you are here now.  I wanted to say goodbye.  You have taught me much and for that I am grateful.”  
She waited for his reply.

	“I showed you a few sword moves.  That is all.”  He glanced back down the valley.

	“No, you showed me much more than that.  How is it that we became friends?  Surely not by all of my effort.”  
Her gentle laughter dragged his gaze back to her.

	“It was due to your spells, your witchcraft.  I told you, you spent too much time with HER.”  He spat the words 
out.

	“Drakar, I do not believe in witchcraft.  What we did came from both of us.  What are you looking for?” she 
asked, exasperated as he looked down the valley yet again.

	“To make sure you are not followed.  However little my hide is worth, I do value it and I am not yet ready to 
have my fëa desert this world.”  He hesitated.  “And, I have heard something.  Something not to your benefit.”

	“What?” she asked.  “What could you hear up here in the wilds?”

	“That the sooner you hie back to Imladris and then Lórien the better.  That is all I can say.”  He halted at the sound of birds, startled from their perches, reached them.

	“I have a gift for you.  Yes,” he said, at her look, “I know all about the wedding.  I am isolated up here, not 
dead.  I do wish him luck with you; you would drive the Witch King mad.  Here.”  He reached into his bag and pulled 
out a deer hide.

	She looked at him as she took it.  Unwrapping it carefully, Ela gasped softly when she saw the contents.  It was 
a beautifully crafted box, made from the aromatic cedars that grew in the higher reaches, just below the perma-snow 
line.  It was nigh impossible to get enough wood from them to make much of anything.  The wood was inlaid with a 
device created from silver.  The design was interwoven lines that folded back on each other until it was impossible to 
see the beginning or the ending.  

	“How…how did you make this?”  Wonder coloured her voice.

	“I did not steal it, nor kill for it.”

	“I never meant to imply that you did.  It is just so beautiful.  I have never seen you make anything like this.”

	“Well, there is little difference in carving men and elves and carving wood, just more precision.  As I cannot do the one any longer, I thought to hone my skill to the other.  I cannot imagine that you disapprove.”

	“No,” she said, “I cannot.  It is truly one of the most amazing things I have ever seen.  I will treasure it forever.”  
Ela drew silent.  “I fear I may never see you again.”

	“If all goes well, you will not.  However, should you ever need me, you will know where to find me.  Send that 
worthless cousin of yours.  He has trampled my grounds enough in the past.  And, I know his looks.”

	“Thank you.”  She paused, then pulled at a leather thong around her neck.  Loosening it enough to get it over 
her head, she held it up.  It was a silver pendant with an enamelled butterfly done in blue.  Reaching up, she placed 
it over his head.

	“And, should you ever need to contact me, just send this to Rúmil.  He knows it well and would know that it is 
important.”

	The sound of a horse neighing in the distance from further up the mountain caused Drakar to spin around.  
Turning back to Ela, he picked her up and threw her back onto her horse.

	“Ride, my lady.  Go home, quickly.  There are evils afoot that have nothing to do with the east.  Never forget me, 
and rest assured that I will never forget you.”  Placing the box into a sack, Drakar tossed it to her, smacking Sadron 
on the withers to get him moving.  Startled, the horse took off down the meadow.  Ela glanced back to see that 
Drakar had disappeared.  Crossing the tree line at the lower end, she halted long enough to secure the sack and 
look back once more.  Three horsemen came out of the upper forest and started a slow sweep down the meadow.  
Ela wasted little time urging Sadron down the hill.  She suspected the identities of the horsemen, but had no desire 
to see if she was correct.

	

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~



	Ela came into the dining hall clean and dressed in her best.  Sweeping along the table, she stopped at the chair 
next to Haldir.  As he pulled it out for her, he whispered in her ear, “You have been quite absent today.”

	“I had things that needed attending.  Did you not manage to find something to occupy yourself?”	

	“I kept busy, but Lord Elrond is not pleased.  He had visitors today.”

	Haldir drew silent as Ela did not ask concerning the visitors.  He wondered if she could know anything about 
them.

	Ela noted the three places set at the table.  So, a quiet lunch alone; it appeared everyone else was otherwise 
occupied.  Waiting for the master of the house, she played with her napkin.  Her hands tied it into a knot and 
released it three times before Elrond made his appearance.  The frown on his face was quickly replaced with a smile, 
but it looked forced to Ela.  

	“Did you enjoy your ride?” he asked looking at her.

	“Very much, thank you.  But, it appears the woods were a bit populated today.”  She did not elaborate, nor did 
Elrond ask concerning her meaning.

	“Well, everything is in place for tomorrow,” his change of subject was smooth; there would be things to discuss 
later.  

	“I spoke with Dalgren.  I do not think there is anything more to be done.”  She took a bite of the roast venison.  
When she had swallowed it, she looked up at Elrond.  “Thank you for fetching Rosa.  I have enjoyed the time with 
her.  She has grown even more beautiful with time.”

	“That she has.  Her father is very proud of her.  He moved in with them last autumn, after Letty passed.  He 
wanted to be closer to his grandchildren.  Now he tends the garden and the most beautiful roses in the Shire have 
taken root elsewhere.”  Elrond continued eating.  

	The meal continued for another forty-five minutes.  As the plates emptied, so did the bottles of wine.  When 
there was nothing left, Elrond rose and nodded to Dalgren, thanking her for the meal.  He handed Ela from her chair 
and led her from the dining room, leaving Haldir to follow. 

	“Shall we sit on the terrace a while?” he asked her.  

	She nodded, allowing him to guide her to the low table close to the railing.  It was in almost the same exact 
spot it had been the day Misty Havens burned to the ground.  Elrond watched her face to gauge any reaction.  He 
knew that at times certain actions and places triggered memories for her.  

	Ela gazed across the valley to the mountains beyond.  Thoughts of who dwelt there nagged the back of her 
mind.  She felt slightly dishonest in not divulging the presence of Drakar, but he meant no one here any harm.  

	“I am sorry, what did you say?”  Her father’s words did not immediately register.

	“I asked if you still see things.  Do you remember what occurred here just before you left?”

	Her eyes slipped slightly out of focus.  The faraway look in them concerned Elrond, until she said, “I remember.  
But, no, I do not see things anymore.  The Lady was able to help me there.  I feel some things, I sense other things, 
but I see no more visions.  Is that what you were asking?”  The clarity in her gaze reassured him.  

	“If you truly had the gift of foresight, it would be a terrible burden to bear.  ‘Tis far better not to know some 
things.”  He sat back in his chair, relieved.  Until she spoke again.

	“Do you refer to wars not yet fought, or kings who fall?  Or do you speak of children dying or one love sundering 
another?”  She smiled at his look.  “No, I do not speak of what will happen.  But, business left unfinished will lead to 
war, will it not?  I need no foresight to know that.  History teaches us that an enemy left breathing will return to cut 
us down.  And the sword that lies buried is long and does not forget.  And, who does not risk losing a child, once they 
are born?  No, my thoughts are those of reasonable assumption.  I have had no ”visions” for many years, and no 
dreams for awhile.  And, should they arise once more, be assured that I will speak to the Lady.”

	Only slightly reassured, he let the subject drop.  “What of your healing?  Has it returned?”  Having corresponded 
with Glordinel, he knew of her reluctance to even attempt testing her abilities.

	“No.  I feel some things, but I think it is gone.  Maybe I pushed too hard.  I do know that Glordinel is 
disappointed.  He believes it is still there, only hidden by fear.  I suppose he is right, but if it is fear, it is greater than 
my desire to find out.  Does that make sense?”

	“Indeed it does.  Let it go.  It will return.  Now, I would like to discuss something with you.”  He glanced at 
Haldir.  The man was not leaving, as arrogant in his knowledge of what was to come as he was in all things.

	“I had visitors today, “he began.

	“My uncle and his ilk?” she inquired, without any hint of question.  Her nonchalance was surprising for its 
unexpectedness.  So, she had an inkling.

	“Yes.  How did you know?”  As far as he knew, she had not been away from the house alone, and anyone with 
her would have reported a meeting with her uncle to him.

	“Let us just say that while riding this morning, I avoided three men in the woods.  I thought it best to return 
here without saying hello.  Very ill-mannered of me, I know, but still, I did it.”  She paused, planting a devious smile 
on her lips.  “Did they come to wish us well, and bring a present?  It is a custom among them to gift the happy couple 
with things to aid in the set up of the new home.  I wonder how they knew to come now.”  Her words trailed off as 
she realized Elrond was not as amused.

	“They came to beg you, one last time, to return.   Seems they have lost another heir.”

	“My, they do seem to be careless with their children, do they not.  Now, what would make them think I have 
changed my mind.”

	“Desperation.  They plan to withdraw to their homelands.  They dare not return without the rightful ruler, lest 
the people still remaining refuse to follow them.”  Elrond waited, knowing the answer, but needing to hear it.

	“And do they think that those occupying their sacred land will just up and leave?  What fools they are, if they 
believe so.  I am not returning with them.  This is my land, and my home.  I will tell them so.  It is time to lay this to 
rest.  After tomorrow, they will have no claims on me whatsoever.  Muc is not my grandfather to come walking in here 
and taking what is not his.  And, I am not my mother to bend to his will.  Faced with the same choice, I would have 
died before allowing anyone to so treat me.”  The deadly calm in her voice was mitigated by the single tear rolling 
down her cheek.  Quickly wiping it away, she held her head up in defiance of any who would dare think her weak.

	“Then, let it be said.  He waits in the library.  You may speak your words, and be done with it.  Only from you will 
he hear your refusal.”  Elrond stood, holding his hand for her.  She took it, rising as gracefully.  Leaving her foster 
father’s side, she went to the one who would be her stanchion, from tomorrow on, until death.

	“This is what they must see,” she said.  “That I will not abandon my people for those of my mother.  Weighed 
against each other, the Eldar will remain dearest to me and who I choose to be.  And, that I will not abandon the one 
I choose: he who chooses me.”  She looked up into Haldir’s eyes.  “Do you stand beside me, as I do you?”

	“Forever,” he said.  “As long as there is breath to speak the word.”  He placed his hand over hers, resting on his 
arm.  “Let us go, my lady, and begin the journey we have planned.”

	She smiled up at him, the bright light in her eyes dazzling him.

	Elrond followed them down the hallway.  Any reservations he held concerning this marriage were gone.  Fears 
for Ela’s future were laid to rest.  He walked past them at the library door.  Glancing at both, he waited for her firm 
nod to continue.  He opened the door, ushering them forward.

	Crelden rose as they entered.  He could not help but notice that the girl clung tightly to the elf.  So, she is that 
scared, he thought to himself, disgusted.  It is well she is scared, for when I finish with her, she will wish she had not 
been born.  He gave a scant nod to Elrond, then turned to the girl.

	“Cera, it is with much regret that I return here.  I find it hardly dignified to beg, but your uncle pleads with you to 
return…”  He was cut off by her words.

	“You will either address me correctly, or not at all.  Furthermore, if he wishes to plead, he may do so himself.”  
She turned to her uncle, Muc, sitting yet in the chair.

	Slowly rising, he gave a very courtly bow.  “It is good to see you, Lady Elrénia.”  

	Ela noticed his Westron showed remarkable improvement.  He even managed to convey quite a bit of sarcasm in 
the greeting.  She gave him just enough of a nod to be polite, acknowledging his pretence at civility.  

	Elrond took a seat close to the window.  Ela whispered in Haldir’s ear, and they moved to the sofa between two 
of the large windows.  This left the men the choice of either standing or sitting in the straight backed chairs from the 
table.  As they were settling in their chairs, a discreet knock at the door announced Erentil, who entered with a tray 
of glasses and a wine bottle.  Close behind him was Erestor, who dismissed the steward.  Erestor himself served 
glasses of wine, first to the men, then to Elrond and Haldir.  Knowing it was futile, he did not offer Ela wine.  

	As they sat drinking, Ela carefully sat back into the sofa.  She was conscious of how close Haldir sat next to her.  
She felt warm, and shifted slightly so that their bodies barely met.  Ela waited patiently for Muc to speak.

	The man in question, very much aware that things were resting with him, decided to see how long the girl would 
wait.  After several minutes, it became obvious that she was willing to try to outwait him.  Draining his glass, he 
turned to her.

	“I come, and not lightly, to ask you to reconsider returning to your people.  We plan on leaving this land for our 
homelands.  You could be a part of the rebuilding there.  Much was destroyed, but we can, once again, have our own 
land.  It seems that you are very intelligent, and you possess a very high sense of duty.  Let me at least lay out our 
ideas.”  The thought of dealing so with a woman repulsed Muc, but if he had learned nothing else in dealing with the 
peoples of this land, he knew that most placed their women above simple child producing machines.  He would have 
to tread carefully.

	“I will listen.  Then we will settle this once and for all.  Agreed?”  Her words were more than he had expected.  

	“We are preparing our withdrawal and hope to have it completed within ten years.  We are gathering those of 
our people scattered about the land.  We plan to leave no one behind.  The people who drove us out of our own 
cities have cast their eyes elsewhere.  We feel that now is the time to regain what we once had.”

	“So far, I see nothing that you cannot accomplish without me.”  Her tone bordered on boredom.  Not quite rude, 
but far from polite.

	“You know the laws of succession.  Only the daughter carries on the line.  Our efforts to find another heir have 
come to naught.  Our one strong candidate died while still a child.  Another disappeared without a trace.  We need 
you to carry on the line.  Only a true child of the royal line will be accepted.”  He threw just enough trace of 
desperation into his voice that he thought she would find him believable.  

	“And what of my husband?  For that matter, what of Cabel?  He has two children.  Do you think he will uproot 
them to follow you?”  She knew very well he would not.

	“Cabel will understand his duty to his people.  As I am sure you will.  You must place your desires aside, for the 
good of all of us.”

	Ela stood and walked to the window.  She stood staring at the mountains for several moments.  Turning, she 
looked at Muc.

	“I am to wed tomorrow.  Why would you think I would set that aside, when I have not changed my mind at any 
other point in my life?  You talk about my people.  You did not set my broken leg.  You did not give me my first pony, 
my swimming lessons, my education.  I received no sympathy from the Indrel, indeed, all I received from you was a 
slow and painful death.  I have had a taste of your way of dealing with your problems.  If you want an heir, go find 
my mother.  She is still young enough to give you your heir.  Do not be surprised if she also turns you down.  She lost 
everything because she did not follow her father’s wishes.  Do not think I am any different.  I chose and was chosen.  
That is enough for me.”

	“You cannot mean that you choose that barbaric life!  People living in trees, like animals.  It is not civilized!”  His 
words rushed out of his mouth before he could check them, his anger controlling his thoughts.

	“I do not live in a tree.  I have spent my entire life on the ground.  Where do you get your information?”  Having 
grown impatient, she took a moment to calm herself.  “As I respect your desire to return to your homeland, I must 
ask you to respect mine to remain here, among my people.  I am more elvish than indrel; therefore, you would do 
well to find another more suitable.  I am not interested in removing myself from the land I so love.  Nor am I inclined 
to leave the man I want to wed… for,” she glanced at Crelden, a shiver of distaste running through her body, “one of 
your choosing.  This is at an end.”  She turned back to Elrond.  “Unless you have something to say, Father.”  Her very 
pointed use of the word “father” grated on Muc’s ears.  

	“I have nothing, other than to give my blessings, whatever your choice.  Now, I think it time you hied yourself to 
bed.  You have a long day tomorrow, and I would not see you worn out before its ending.”  He accepted a light kiss 
on his cheek as she passed him.  Haldir waited at the door, where he took her arm in his and ushered her from the 
library.  The last words they heard were loud protests from both Muc and Crelden.

	Haldir led Ela up the stairs to her room.  He had been sure of her answer, but there was always the little 
niggling of doubt that she would be swayed by duty.  He was gratified that she saw her duty lay with her father’s 
people.  As reluctant a suitor as he had been, his headlong rush into matrimony was totally of his choosing.  He 
shuddered at the thought she might have allowed the guilt of responsibility to cause her to abandon her life here.

	“Are you cold?” she asked, noting his physical reaction to his thoughts.

	“No, just imagining what would happen if you had followed your customs instead of your heart.”

	Now it was her turn to shiver.  “That is not likely to happen.  Besides, do you think I would let you off that 
easily.”  She grinned, then shook her head.  “What were they thinking, coming the night before our wedding to make 
such a demand?  I will never understand them.” They had reached her room.  Turning to him, she looked up into his 
eyes.  “Do you have second thoughts about tomorrow?”  She hid her fear well enough, but he still sensed it.

	“If I had not desired this, do you think I would have allowed myself to walk down this road?  I may have needed 
goading, but only because I did not realize I really wanted it.  No, there are no doubts.  I only feared you would 
change your mind.  Tonight has proven that we both have nothing to fear.”

	She sighed.  “Well and good.  I suppose an early morning hunt is out of the question.”  She smiled at his easy 
laugh.

	“Very much so.  Your father would hang us both by our feet should we pull a stunt like that.  You will have to 
content yourself with hunting after tomorrow.  Now, do as he bid you and get to bed.  Enjoy the fact that tonight is 
your last night alone.”  

	“I will sleep, but I will not enjoy it,” she returned, with a grin.  Standing on her toes, she reached up to kiss him 
goodnight.  Always chaste and proper, she anticipated tomorrow night as no other.  These feelings were getting 
harder to control.

	Closing the door to her room, Ela leaned against it for a moment.  She was almost dizzy, thinking of all the 
things she had been told about the wedding night.  Meliel would say nothing on the subject, but speculation among 
the younglings in the stables had been wild.  Of course, as a healer, she knew the mechanics of sex, but it was the 
emotional aspect about which she was not sure.  What would it feel like?  Would it make any difference?

	Well, she thought, those questions would have to wait until tomorrow.  She checked to be sure her dress was 
laid out for the feast.  The matching shoes were on the dressing table, along with the necklace and bracelet from 
Haldir, and the matching earrings gifted her on her thirtieth birthday by Elrohir.   Her bath things were also laid out, in 
the small bathing room adjacent to her bedroom.  Sighing, she undressed for bed, carefully laying her dress over a 
chair.  Removing the chemise, she tossed it into the basket by the door.  The cool material of her silk nightgown slid 
down her body, coming to rest above her ankles.  

	Before climbing into bed, Ela hugged herself and spun around.  Her last night alone.  After tonight, she would be 
wedded and share her life with another.  The thought excited her greatly, and frightened her just a bit.  What if she 
was not a good wife?  Seldala had given her “the talk” two days ago.  The older woman had relieved some of her 
anxiety, but there were things Ela still worried about.  Would Haldir find her adequate?  Would she be able to carry 
out her duties and still be a good wife?  At least there was no talk of children.  She did not think she was ready for 
that.

	She crawled into bed.  The sheets were just enough to cut the slightly cool night air.  Pulling them up to her 
chin, she stared at the ceiling for several minutes before drifting off to sleep.


Chapter 14 - Chapter Fourteen

Morning was yet a long way off when the household began to stir.  Dalgren was still several hours from prepared for the feast.  Elrond was in his office, clearing away some details that would not wait until tomorrow.  Seldala was up, seeing to things that had nothing to do with the feast.  

	Ela lazed in bed until dawn, then habit drove her from her warm nest.  She quickly dressed in a day gown, slipping her feet into a pair of slippers.  Running the comb through her hair, she quickly braided it and fled her room.  Treading  lightly down the back stairs, she burst through the kitchen.  Seeing Dalgren, she rushed over to the head cook.

	“Am I too late for the bread?” she asked, breathless.

	“You should not be down here today.  Get out front and visit with your guests and relax.”  The words were only 
token, as she knew Ela would not leave.

	“This is my last day to do this.  The next time I make bread, it will be for my own house.  I need to do this today.”  
Ela looked expectant.  Dalgren relented, removing her own apron to wrap around the girl.

	“Go, then.  It is ready to turn out.  Punch to you heart’s content.”  Smiling, she watched Ela dump the large bowl of 
dough and begin kneading it.  Well, that would content her for the next couple of hours.  Dalgren went on to other 
preparations, confident in the one thing Ela did well in the kitchen.

	Amid the flurry of activity in the rest of the house, Ela was not missed.  She was able to hide and work out her 
jitters in peace.  

	At midmorning, it dawned on Elrond that he had not seen her.  After checking her room and sending a servant to 
the stables, he surmised that she would be in the one place that had always given her comfort.  On his way there, he 
ran into Elrohir, back from early morning hunting.  The younger man deduced from the determined look on his father’s 
face the subject of his search.

	“She is in the kitchen.  Where else would she be?”  He laughed.  Some things about his younger sister were just 
too predictable.

	“Ah, well, I will leave her then.  I was only concerned.  She had a lot to sleep on.”  He turned and went back into 
his office.  

	Finishing up his small pile of correspondence, Elrond stood and adjusted his robes.  So close to noon, it was time 
to start preparing for the small ceremony and the feast to follow.  He walked to the kitchen, getting a nod from Dalgren.  
No sign of Ela, so she must have gone back upstairs.  He followed the narrow path through the kitchen to the back 
stairs, ascending to his own rooms.  Faint chatter from Ela’s rooms assured him that she was getting ready.

	Ela lay back in the great tub.  The hot water was filled with frothy bubbles and the scent of lavender.  Her eyes 
closed, she let her thought wander back to her life before coming here.  A morning when she was ten came to mind.  It 
was one of her last memories of her family together: her mother fixing dinner while she and her father went swimming 
in the small stream.



	*“Father, why do you not look like Mother?” she had asked. 

	“Because your nana comes from a far away place,” was the reply.  He sat on the bank of the stream braiding his 
hair.

	“Well, why did she come?  Was it very far away?”  Her inquisitiveness had never let her leave a question 
unanswered.

	“There was a war.  Her great-grandfather sent his people here, for safe keeping.  One day, I saw your mother and I fell in love with her.  I am very lucky that she also loved me.”  He thought that would be enough to satisfy her.

	Quiet for minutes, Ela contemplated his words.  Even at ten, she was a serious child.  “And will I wed someone 
from far away?” was her next question.

	“Well, let me think,” he said, teasing her.  “Your husband will indeed be from far away.  He will ride up on a horse 
and sweep you into his arms.  You will love him from your first sight of him and follow him to his home, where you will 
live forever.  And he will protect you from all the evils of the world.  At least, that is how your mother tells the tale.”  He 
tweaked her nose and dove into the stream.

	Coming up for air, he saw her still sitting on the bank.

	“He will not, you know,” she called out, “come riding up to me.  That is just a story Mother tells.  Besides, would it 
not be more fair to wed someone who will allow me to help protect him as he does me?  I rather see a warrior who will 
let me share his life.  One who will laugh with me at my fears and not at me.  One who is kind, as you are to Mother.”  
She jumped into the water.  “I want someone like you!” she shouted.

	“Ah, Laeriell, every girl wants to wed someone like her father.  It is the greatest compliment.  I promise you, when 
the time comes, he will be there.  Whether riding on a horse, or simply arriving in a wagon, he will come for you.  And, I 
will welcome him, because he loves you.”  He kissed the top of her head as she snuggled up against him.  

	How he longed for another child.  But, the danger to them was already too great.  And Ceria had told him the life 
cycle was broken, as Elrénia was only one child and not the two that had always been the norm for the royal family of 
Indra.  She believed that it was possible there could be no more children for them.  He sighed.  As much as he longed 
for a son, he would not have traded Ceria and Cera for ten sons.  How he wished that he was not leaving the next day.  
But, there were plans made and promises to be kept.  Well, it was only a week.  Then the last year’s preparations 
would insure their safety forever.  He was sure his mother would be surprised, but not unhappy.  He knew that Cera 
would win her over quickly.  Yes, the Lady Elestra would soon come under the child’s spell.  He chuckled at the thought.

	“Come, Laeriell, your mother will wonder if we have been swept away.”  And they had chatted all the way home.*




	A slight noise in the bedroom woke Ela from her reverie.  She stirred and sat up, reaching for the stopper in the bottom of the tub.  The strange dream stayed with her as she stepped from the large basin.  Wrapped in a large bath sheet, she walked into her room.  Meliel turned at the sound of wet footsteps.

	“Did you enjoy your bath?” she asked, turning back to the dress she was laying out.  Rosa glanced up from laying 
out the jewellery.

	“I did, but I had the strangest dream, about my father.  We talked about my husband.”  She laughed at the 
sceptical look on Meliel’s face.  “No, I did not dream he was here.  It was a memory from when I was a child.  He said I 
would wed a man who would ride up on a horse and sweep me off my feet.  I told him I did not think so.  Could you 
imagine Haldir in formal attire riding up to pay court?”  The thought made them both break out in a fit of giggles.  They 
sobered up only when Seldala entered the room.  She looked from one to the other, questioning.  

	“Just trying to imagine Haldir in a morning frock!” was Ela’s laboured reply.  

	Seldala smiled.  Trying to imagine Haldir as anything other than himself was amusing.  She had never seen the 
man in anything other than his usual attire, a clean set reserved for special occasions.  It would be interesting to see 
him in his wedding outfit.  

	“Come, my lady.  It is high time you were dressed.  

	Seldala smiled at the chatter between the three younger women.  It was well Ela had such good friends.  The fact 
that she had not seen Rosa in years did nothing to diminish their relationship, as letters had flowed fast and furious.  

	Turning when Ela stepped from behind the screen, dressed in her chemise and under gown, Seldala motioned her 
to sit on the bench before the dressing table.  Combing out the long hair, the older woman worked the light lavender oil 
into the tresses.  The braiding and wrapping took a half hour.  Ela sat still, but the moment Seldala finished, she jumped 
up and went to the bed.  

	Ela stepped into the dress as Meliel helped Seldala hold it in place.  Pulling it up, she slipped her arms into the 
sleeves.  As Ela had promised herself many years ago, the dress buttoned up the front.  When the last button was 
fastened, Rosa placed the slippers in front of her and Ela slid them on her feet.  Walking to the mirror, Ela examined the 
finished effort.

	Sighing, she smoothed her hands over the silk covering her hips.  Nodding approval, she sat back down on the 
bench.  Reaching for her jewel box, she picked up the earrings from Elrohir, placing them in her lobes.  Rosa picked up 
the sapphire necklace and fastened it behind her, Meliel wrapping the bracelet on her wrist.  Seldala waited until all was 
secured, then gently placed the black diamond circlet on her forehead.  Then, Ela rose slowly and turned, awaiting their 
comments.

	“You are a most beautiful bride,” exclaimed Rosa.  

	“You were quite the envy, as I remember,” returned Ela.  “There were many a heart broken on your wedding day.”

	There were cries of protest as each of the girls insisted one of the others was a more beautiful bride.  Seldala 
herded them out the door, still chattering.

	At the foot of the main staircase winding from the upper level, Elrond waited.  It was early for dinner, but a small 
feast had been planned for the ceremony, which would be held afterwards, on the terrace.  Only family and Ela’s closest 
friends had been invited.  Dorga, Cabel and Rosa were to be the only outsiders.

	Elrond straightened up when he saw her coming down the stairs.  Gone was the little child who had run up and 
down those very stairs.  As was the girl, playing the age old game of keeping a suitor waiting.  There was no fear or 
doubt in her, and it showed.

	He took in the gown, the grey not a good choice in itself, but it offset the sapphires brilliantly.  The stones she 
wore glittered in the afternoon sun spilling from the windows.  The small seed pearls woven into the braids wrapped 
around her head gleamed incandescently.  Only once had he seen a more beautiful vision on her wedding day.  

	“Are you ready?” he asked, taking her hand.  

	“I am more than ready.  Shall we go?”  Her eagerness caused him to smile.

	He lead her out to the terrace.  Two large tables had been set up with white linens and cream coloured dishes.  
The table service was gleaming silver and the crystal was spotless.  All conversation stopped as they came through the 
doors.  Haldir hesitated only a moment, then slowly crossed the flagstones towards them.  He halted before Elrond, 
silently asking permission to relieve him of his charge.  Elrond took Ela’s hand and placed it in Haldir’s, thus placing her 
life and well being in the hands of another.

	Haldir led her to one of the tables.  They sat in the centre, allowing others to seat themselves around them.  
Settling to the noise around them, Haldir poured them each some wine, making hers just a bit.  As the platters were 
brought around, everyone took a fair portion.  It was not until half-way through the meal that Haldir noticed Ela’s 
appetite, or rather lack of it.

	“Why do you not eat?” he whispered in her ear.

	“Are you mad?  How can I eat?  Not to mention the fact that we have yet to eat later.  This is only a formality.  How 
can you eat so much?”  Her words pointed out that she had noticed no lack of hunger in him.

	“Getting nervous?” he teased.

	“You know, I am thoroughly rethinking the whole idea of waiting until we return to Lórien.  I am in such a state 
now, it is ridiculous.”  She dropped her fork onto the plate.  “I cannot eat another bite.  Just finish your meal.  And have 
a care with the wine.  I do not intend to spend my wedding night with you passed out on the bed.”

	“And when, pray tell, have you ever seen me so deep into my cups as to be rendered so helpless.”  He arrogance 
was hard pressed to seep out from his slightly blurry words.

	“Never, yet I do know what nerves can do to one.  You must take it easy.  Well, at least you are eating.  I am 
sorry…what?”  Elrond’s question startled her, so intent had she been on Haldir.

	“I asked, is everything well?”  The twinkle in her father’s eyes belied his concern.  He had watched the two of them 
for moments, trying to figure out just what Ela found so interesting in her future husband, that she should ignore the 
guests around her.

	“Oh, yes, all is well.”  She caught her breath, slightly embarrassed now that all had fixed their attention on her.

	“Well, then.  If you are finished eating, perhaps we can move on to the next part of the feast.”  Elrond stood; 
coming to where she sat, he held out his.  She took the hand proffered her and rose gracefully.

	Haldir stood up, just as graceful, and sober, leaving Ela to wonder if he indeed had drank anything.  He followed 
them to the cleared space beyond the tables, waiting for the others to join them.  Standing there, surrounded by the 
people they both knew and loved, Ela felt again an overwhelming sense of blessedness.  

	Elrohir and Elladan, her rescuers and saviours.  They had also been the ones to help her thwart authority when 
her desires had overcome prudence.  And yet, they had never allowed her to fall into trouble.

	Erestor and Seldala, two of the steadying anchors in her early life.  They joined Elrond, forming a stable foundation 
for all she would become.

	Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel, it was through their graciousness and understanding that she had worked out 
some very difficult times.  And Glordinel, a great teacher who taught her that life should always come before anything 
else.  Without the joy of living, there was no joy.

	Orophin and Gariel, who had opened their home and welcomed her there.  Elldar, ever the comrade in arms when 
there was adventure to be had.

	Meliel, one of her truest friends, second only to Rosa.  

	And, there beside his brother, the second greatest love of her life, Rúmil.  Only now, seeing his face, did she truly 
know the great emptiness left in his heart.  Yet, he would never say anything, as his brother was the recipient of the 
love he desired.  Ela hid a small smile.  If only he know what lay ahead for him.

	She embraced them all with her eyes.  Dorga, teaching her the difference in being different; Cabel, who taught her 
that not all her mother’s people were ignorant peasants.  These were the people she loved most.  And now, they joined 
together to witness the new chapter opening before her.

	Her attention drawn back to man responsible for all the things in her life, she returned the slight squeeze on her 
hand.  

	“Ready?” he whispered in her ear.

	“Very,” she replied, as he turned to make room for Elestra, who had accepted Ela’s request to stand for her 
mother.  

	Ela’s grandmother smiled at her.  She had never thought to see today.  It still felt a bit odd to her to have a 
granddaughter when she had not even known her son had wedded.  But, any preconceptions about grandchildren had 
been lost and fulfilled with this girl; not what she had imagined, but more than she had expected.  And, more like 
Dorlandad than not, with his caring of others, his gentle touch; but mostly, his humour and sense of right and wrong.  

	Now, taking her granddaughter’s hand, she looked into the girl’s eyes, looking for any sign of hesitation.  There 
was none.  As unsuitable as this marriage would be deemed in her own day, it was suitable today.  She turned to 
Celeborn, holding Haldir’s hand.  Nodding, Elestra placed Ela’s small hand in Haldir’s large one, watching the slender 
fingers all but disappear.

	The words spoken were ages old, heard at such joinings from before recorded history.  The words were handed 
down from generation to generation, calling on Varda and Manwë to bless the union, finally invoking Eru. 

	When Elestra and Celeborn had finished, Ela and Haldir removed the silver rings they had worn for the past year.  
Placing them in Elrond’s outstretched hand, they picked up the gold rings he also held.  Haldir placed the small gold 
circle on her finger, receiving in turn the larger ring.  He grasped her hand as the ring slid over the final joint.  They 
turned back towards Elestra and Celeborn.

	“Accept this gift from Lord Elrond and myself,” began Elestra, “As proof of our faith in this union.”  She held a gold 
chain.  Dangling from it was an eagle, clutching a ruby in its talons.  Haldir bowed his head to allow her to slip the chain 
over his head.  “Always guard my precious jewel,” she whispered in his ear before stepping back.  

	Haldir stood back up, determined not to let down this lady, who not so long ago was not even sure she accepted 
this “jewel”.  

	Celeborn stepped forward with a necklace of his own.  “Know that we are well aware of your dislike for some 
traditions.”  His voice was soft and did not carry far beyond the small circle of the six standing there.  “However, you 
have become dear to us, almost as high in our regard as is this man.  Allow us the indulgence of gifting you with this.  It 
is small enough token of our gratitude for what you do for him.”  Ela leaned forward, accepting the chain to fall over her 
head.  As Celeborn stepped back to his smiling lady, Rúmil stepped forward, carrying the silver and gold cup on a small 
tray.

	Taking the chalice, Haldir held it up.  “Let this cup signal the joining of our houses.  Let all that comes to one 
belong to both.  By drinking of this cup, we declare that we are one and bind ourselves forever.”  The memorized vow 
finished, he drank from the cup, giving it to Ela.

	Holding it up as Haldir had, Ela turned to the guests.  “This cup signals the joining of our houses.  All that is mine, 
is yours.  And, I accept all that is yours.  By drinking this cup, I declare that I bind myself to you alone.  Both now, and 
forever.”  She then took a small drink and set the cup back on the tray.  Dalgren rushed forward to take the cup and 
wash it, to be stored until the next generation should have need of it.

	Ela and Haldir turned towards their guests and accepted the congratulations.  They were soon separated by 
well-wishers.  It was almost a half-hour before they reunited.  

	“Are you ready to go down to the field?” asked Elrond.  “They are waiting for you.”

	Ela glanced over the terrace to the large tents set up below.  There, guests who were not part of the family were 
waiting to celebrate the nuptials.  It meant a long night of dancing and drinking.  But, perhaps they could leave early.

	“I am ready.  Let us not keep them waiting!”


Chapter 15 - Chapter Fifteen

The trek down the stairs did not go unnoticed by those below.  Rosa’s brother, Feller saw them coming and gave a warning.  He had accompanied his sister to Imladris at the behest of Perin, who was training him for his business.

	All quieted down as the party from above crossed the road to the tents.  As Haldir led her under the shelter, a 
cheer went up from those assembled.  They were led to a table that faced the guests.  Situated at the end of the tent, 
it left plenty of room at the other end for dancing.  A long table had been set up and was already laden with food.  
Another held wine and great kegs of ale.  Now that the guests of honour had arrived, food and drink began 
disappearing.

	“Rather noisy for someone who shuns crowds.”  Haldir turned at the words, laughing at Rúmil.  He lost sight of Ela.

	“I have to endure this only one time.  Then we hie back to the sanctuary of Lórien.  I can deal with it for now.”  
Though said lightly, Rúmil knew that his brother would only be at ease when back home.  He was not made for a 
flamboyant lifestyle.

	“Do you really expect things to be quiet?  Your wife has a penchant for trouble.  Have you considered that?”  

	Haldir noticed a hint of difficulty when Rúmil mentioned the word “wife”.  Perhaps the game had not been played 
quite as lightly on one’s part.  An instant of regret passed his face, not for what he had done, but rather that he had 
done it to his own brother.

	“Think not on it,” replied Rúmil.  “It was not meant to be.  I have know that for years.  It does not make me care 
for her any less.  Just mind that it makes you care for her more.  You have been given a wonderful gift; do not take it for 
granted.”

	“How would that be possible, with you here to remind me?”  Haldir allowed a bit of irritation to colour his words.  
He suddenly smiled, trying to take the sting from his words.  He knew Rúmil’s feelings ran in a much different direction 
that did Ela’s.  It was enough the she had chosen him.  “I apologize.  Too much wine at dinner, and to much excitement.  
Forgive me?”

	Rúmil knew better than to make more of the apology than was needed.  He gave a quick grin, to show there were 
no ill feelings.

	Both were grinning like sodden hobbits when Ela found them together.

	“Am I to spend this evening alone?” she asked.  Taking an arm from each brother, she led them away from the 
wine.

	“Now, I believe that the music is due to begin.  Who shall I dance with first?  I will let you two decide.”  She turned 
and faced them both.  “Come.  Who will it be?”  Her teasing carried no further than the three of them.

	“Well, it is your wedding night, brother.  It is only right that you claim the first dance.  I will wait for the third.  I am 
sure I can find some winsome wench to soothe my sorrow.”  Smiling, Rúmil backed off, pleading thirst.  He spied their 
other brother and his wife and went to bother them for a spell.

	“Ah, alone at last,” she said, pointedly ignoring the sea of bodies around them.  As the first tunings of the 
instruments sounded, she took Haldir’s hand.  “Will you dance with me?” she asked.

	“It would be an honour.  Provided that my toes are to be spared,” he replied.

	“I promise that your toes are safe.  But,” she added, “only until you teach our daughter to dance.  Then, I fear you 
must suffer through it again.”

	“I believe that will be a pain I will bear willingly.  Now, my lady,” he raised her hand to his lips, “I believe this dance 
is ours.”

	Whisking her out to the centre of the open space, he stood, her hand clasped in his and his other hand lightly on 
her hip.  As the strains of music began, they stepped in time, whirling around, oblivious to all around them.  Even when 
the music stopped, they seemed reluctant to end it.

	Taking his one chance, Elrond stepped forward and danced the next round, while Haldir partnered Elestra.  They 
were joined by other couples and soon the area was crowded.   By the time the sun had begun its daily journey into 
night, all were showing the effects of wine, food and song.  

	The last few dances were completed together, Ela and Haldir refusing any other partners.  The food had 
disappeared hours ago, and the wine and ale were almost gone.  Only laughter and merriment seemed in abundance.  
There were quiet couples clinging to the last of the evening.  As midnight crept and then passed them all, people 
started drifting away.  Most returned to homes in the valley or town.  Visitors left for the inn or to the house upon the 
hill.  Haldir had seen his younger brother and his wife steal away up the stairs, leaving Elldar to see to Aniron, who was 
staying with Ela’s cousin Cabal and his family.  

	Ela made the rounds of those still present, thanking them for coming and wishing them goodnight.  When she 
came to Rosa, she gave her a hug and kiss.

	“I am so very happy you came.  It would not be the same without you.”

	“Well, you did attend my wedding, I figured I could do no less.”  Rosa gathered up a small handbag.  With it was a 
wrapped package.  “You know, it is a custom in the Shire to give gifts.  I brought this for you.  Perin found it on one of 
his trips.  He knew right away it was for you.  My father wanted to come, but he claimed age kept him home.  And, he 
misses Letty so.  He sent along something, too.”  She handed the wrapped gift to Ela.

	Opening it, Ela gasped.  It was a history book.  And Indrel history book.  The outside was covered with interlocking 
designs.  The dark green was little faded, and the date placed it before her mother’s people fled their own lands.

	“Where did he find this?”  She was so overwhelmed.

	“I suspect he went to them and paid dearly for it.  He would not tell me.  Only said it was worth it, all the joy you 
have given me over the years.”  Rosa was weeping, the tears rolling down her plump cheeks.  “And this,” she said, 
handing over the small bag, “is from my father.  He would not tell me where he got it, either.  The men in my family are 
not easy to pry secrets out of, let me tell you.”

	The bag contained a small gold ring on a chain.  Too small for an adult, it could only fit a child.  There was also a 
beautiful white shell, still containing grains of sand.  Finally, a dark blue enamelled butterfly was revealed.  Ela looked 
up questioningly.

	“He said, the butterfly was to remember me, and to always remember that you are as free as you let yourself be.  
He had your brothers go to the shore where they found you and get a shell.  It is to remember being found.  And the 
ring, he claims you left at our house.  Neither Elrohir or Elladan remember a necklace, so it could be it was in a pocket.  
Anyway, he wanted you to have these things.”

	“Oh, thank you, Rosa!”  Ela threw her arms around the smaller woman.  “You will never know how much your 
friendship and family have meant to me.”

	“It goes both ways.  I feel like the distance was never more than a couple of miles between us.  You have been a 
wonderful friend.”

	Haldir waited until they were standing apart again, then approached.

	“Ela, it is getting late.  I think people are waiting for us to leave, so that they may go.”  He smiled, letting her know 
he did not want to rush her.  “Rosa, will you walk back to the house with us?”  His invitation caught her off guard.

	“Yes, if it is all right.  I would love to.  Let me say goodnight to Feller.  He is staying in the guard house.”  She ran 
off to do so.

	“Thank you,” said Ela.  “That means much to her.”

	“Did you bid Dorga good night?”  He changed the subject, embarrassed.

	“There is no use.  He passed out hours ago.  The swill we drink he can down by the bottle.  Give him honest liquor and he slides under the table every time.”

	She glanced over to the corner where the subject of their conversation lay on a table, snoring enough for ten men.

	Rosa joined them and they walked back to the house together, comfortable in the silence of friends.  They walked 
slowly to accommodate her shorter steps.  By the time they reached the terrace, Rosa was breathing hard and sat for a 
moment.

	“Go on,” she said when they tried to sit beside her.  “You have more important things to do besides sit with me.  
Go.”  She pushed Ela from the bench.

	Laughing, Haldir and Ela left her there.  She was right, they had other things to do.

	Once in the house, Haldir led Ela up the stairs.  She followed willingly.  Hand-in-hand they walked up the grand 
staircase leading to the private rooms.  At her door, Ela waited for him to open it, preceding him into the room.  She 
stopped in astonishment.  Her small bed was gone.  In its place stood a sturdy bed with four great posts.  Hanging from 
the upper frame were lengths of gossamer film, held back on each side by silken ties.  

	Ela approached the bed gingerly.  She found a silk gown laid out.  A noise behind her broke the spell.  

	She turned, startled by his closeness.  Ela stood still as Haldir reached to caress her neck.  His hand fell to the 
neckline of her dress where a button lay.

	“I remember well another dress, in another time,” he said, throatily.  “I also recall some difficulty fastening the 
dress.”

	“I beseeched Lindelen to place the buttons in the front.  I, too, remember a dress.  This one will not prove as 
difficult.”

	“Ah, very foresighted of you.”  His fingers deftly slipped the small pearl from its prison.  Another followed.  

	Soon, the last button was free.  Gently holding the heavy dress for her as she stepped out of it, he laid it over the 
back of a chair.  She stood in her under dress, a radiant white silk gown.  He reached out and turned her around, 
catching the pins and combs from her hair.  It fell in a cascade to her waist.  Unbraiding it, he undid the plaits that had 
taken Seldala so long to put up, running his fingers through the strands until they were smooth.  Pulling the hair  aside, 
his lips brushed her ear.

	“I will return in a few minutes,” he whispered, nuzzling her neck.  His withdrawal was a shock, and as she turned, 
he was gone.

	Knowing what to expect, after all Seldala was quite competent, she shed the gown and chemise.  Slipping on the 
nightgown, she smoothed it down, feeling as if she had nothing on.  Turning back the covers, the odour of lavender 
delighted her.  It was soothing and calmed her beating heart.

	Finished, with nothing else to do, Ela picked up her comb and walked to the large window.  Sliding out onto the 
terrace outside her room, she combed her hair and watched the full moon rise over the mountains.  She absently 
braided the tresses, tying them with a bit of leather.  

	Gazing down the valley, she was reminded of the day she had arrived in this fair land.  Never would she have 
dreamed that one day she would be standing here, waiting for her husband to come and claim her as his own.  If not 
the way her parents had described it, this was still a magical moment.  

	Ah, what a vision, Haldir thought to himself as he watched her looking over the valley.  What had possessed him to 
balk so when she had made her desires clear?  He had waited far too long for someone to stir his heart in such a 
manner, and then, he had ignored what had stood in front of him.  Only Elrond’s admonishment to go slowly and be 
gentle kept him from rushing forward and embracing her.  She was so young, for a moment he knew fear: what if things 
were not as she expected?  This was no campaign to destroy an enemy, nor a scouting foray into enemy territory.  He 
was entering a world he had little control over, and it bothered him.

	A rustle at the window curtains caused her to turn.  There, in the moonlight stood her heart’s desire.  From the 
time she was a child, she had known who she had wanted.  She had out-waited her age of majority.  She had 
out-waited his doubts.  Ela knew he loved her, but she sensed the hesitation in him.

	“Is something wrong?” she asked him.

	There were no words.  He had spoken to his younger brother, gaining reassurances that when the time came, 
things would happen as they should.  Gently smiling at Haldir’s fears of hurting Ela, he quietly reminded his eldest 
brother of a fall down a steep hill, a vicious attack survived, several incidences where the girl had shown she could 
defend herself.  No, Ela was not as fragile as Haldir feared.

	At any rate, the time had come, and things were too far gone to worry about them now.  He reached her in a 
stride, pushing a stray hair back from her face.   He kissed her tenderly, only to be reminded of a heated moment on the 
mountain, and an angry kiss when he had referred to her as a girl.  Her insistent return of his kiss fuelled the stirrings 
only now noticed.  

	“Do you fear?”  He had to ask, all the words of advice gone.

	“Only that the morning sun will catch us yet standing here.”  The glowing heat of her eyes belied the light teasing 
of her words. 

	He picked up her slight form, carrying her to the bed.  Laying her down, he took a moment to remove his dressing 
gown.  Sliding beneath the silken sheets, he stirred up the scent of lavender.  He waited as Ela settled herself beneath 
the light comforter.  Reaching for her, he found she was already there, waiting for him.  

	He kissed her lightly.  At a sputtering noise, he drew back.

	“The hair,” she said.  “I think it would work better tied back, like mine.  Otherwise, I may choke on it.”  The small 
laugh in her voice caused him to chuckle.  He complied, then turned back to her.

	After some fumbling, on both their parts, Ela drew back a bit.

	“Do we know what we are doing?”  Her teasing hid something just beneath the surface.  “I mean, I know what to 
do, but….”  She was at a loss for words.

	“I am assured that nature would tell us what to do.”  His words were not as unsure as were hers, but there was a 
hint of uncertainty.

	“Well, I suppose if nature knows, then we really should listen.”  He could hear the smile in her voice.  

	Gently rolling until he lay over her, he paused.  Finding his bearings, he pushed tentatively in the direction nature 
whispered in his ear.  He felt, rather than heard a slight gasp.  Backing off, he was seized and pulled back forward.  
Inching ahead, he paused when he felt a resistance.

	“Glordinel said that this would hurt; but is necessary.  Are you ready?”  His concern touched her.

	“What does Glordinel know?  He is a man.”  

	Haldir pushed in, again feeling the slight resistance.  Tensing up, he met the barrier, breeching it in one powerful 
thrust.  He was momentarily deafened, a result of the feelings he was experiencing, and did not hear the sharp cry of 
pain.

Halting, he glanced down at Ela.

	“Well, it seems he knows more than he should!” was her exclamation.

	All words were lost at that point, as the pain subsided and Haldir found himself lost in Ela.  Nature did indeed 
speak to them, urging them on to the culmination of their efforts.  Both spent, drenched in sweat, they fell asleep, the 
long day and their exertions catching up with them.
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