Butterfly- Chrysalis

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.


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