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Beyond the brink of death | part 3 | Haldir x OFC

Part 1 and Part 2

Pairing: Haldir x OFC

Warnings: Violence, Death, Sorrow

Rating: Mature

Genre: Romance, Drama

Summary: What if Haldir survived the Battle of Helm's Deep due to the help of someone who loved him?

Word count: 7.4k

Tags: @lathalea @glassgulls @tamurilofrivendell @quillofspirit @emmcduvcl @emmanuellececchi @from-the-coffee-shop-in-edoras @blankitdblankityboom @sotwk @ourlonelymountain

About an hour later, they were on their way towards Edoras. As the sun rose over the soft rolling hills and its brilliant light streamed across the cool landscape, it hardly seemed that this beautiful area was scarred by war. The Elves rode in closed formation alongside the humans and Haldir's gaze fell on Amarië, watching the morning light reflect on her pale skin. A soft smile came to his lips as he pondered what had happened in the past hours, and Fiondil, who rode beside him, smirked to himself.

"You wanted to tell me what is said about me when I am not around," Haldir reminded the beautiful Noldor.

Amarië, who was lost in thought as she watched the landscape, looked at him mischievously.

"Well, some things must remain hidden from you too, otherwise we would no longer be able to speak freely about you," she replied with a grin, "but I am happy to let you in on a few things."

Haldir had raised an eyebrow at her words and looked at her invitingly. "I'm listening."

"I don't think what I'm about to tell you will be news to you. We all think you are a good and righteous captain, but we like to joke about your serious and stubborn nature, or that you have a pessimistic opinion of the world," Amarië began to reveal. "Besides, your brothers took the liberty of telling us a few stories from your childhood days, which we found extremely amusing."

The captain closed his eyes for a moment, speechless, and shook his head slightly.

"These two…" he muttered.

Amarië laughed softly, which made him look at her. She was just too beautiful in her mirth that he forgave his brothers for whatever they had said.

"It's good to know that even the captain of Lórien once fell out of a tree," she said.

"Or was afraid of squirrels and foxes," Fiondil added next to them, amused.

"Anything else?" asked Haldir, trying not to sound contrite.

"Yes," Amarië said and rode closer to him until their knees were almost touching.

He met the gaze of her beautiful green eyes curiously, twinkling cheekily at him.

"We're talking about how handsome you are and how long it will take for someone to take possession of your heart," she whispered.

"You've found the answer now," he replied, his ears turning a charming pink colour.

"That's right," she said with a loving smile, "I don't think we'll talk about that again."

Haldir was about to reply, but he was interrupted by the arrival of a young rider.

It was Déor.

He first nodded respectfully to Haldir before looking at Amarië and Fiondil.

"I apologise for the interruption. I am here on behalf of my lady to ask you if you intend to spend the night in Edoras where there will be a celebration tonight to commemorate the fallen warriors, or if you will return home?"

Amarië's eyes drifted to Haldir and then to Fiondil. What would Haldir decide?

The captain scrutinised the young Rohirrim with a serious expression and then turned his gaze to Fiondil. Behind him, he noticed many a furtive Elven glance for everyone had heard Déor's question.

Haldir looked back again and said, "We'll accept the offer to spend a night in Edoras if it's no trouble."

Déor's face brightened. "Thank you very much. I will let my lady know."

He nodded to them, flashed Amarië a smile and then steered his horse round to get to the head of the procession where Éowyn was riding.

"A wise decision, Captain," Fiondil said.

Haldir did not miss the slight tilt of his mouth. "I am aware that my wounds still need time to heal."

"And we are aware of how stubborn you can be when it comes to resting. After all, you always keep us busy too," Amarië said teasingly. "We are not like men who fall to the ground like a tree or wither like flowers," she quoted him.

The captain sighed softly. "Am I right in assuming that you'll be telling me that for a while?"

"Oh, most definitely," she replied, and her white teeth flashed at him with a grin.

On their journey, they passed several hamlets and farmsteads, all of which looked burnt out. An ominous wisp of smoke still hung over some of them, testifying to the evil machinations of their enemies. Haldir's heart tightened at the thought that he might return home to such a sight.

Only a few hours later, as the sun approached its zenith when they entered Harrowdale, the roofs of Edoras came into view in the distance. The thatched roof of the Hall of Meduseld shimmered like gold in the light, as if waving to the travellers. A cheerful murmur went through the crowd and it seemed as if they were walking faster now that they saw their home. Haldir knew how they felt. He missed Lórien, even though he had not been away for long. Worry filled his heart when he thought of how his brothers and the Galadhrim who had stayed behind defended their homeland against hordes of the enemy in his absence. He hoped they were well and could resist. His worry must have been visible on his face, for he noticed Amarië give him an encouraging smile. He had never seen her smile so much and it warmed his heart that she was supporting him emotionally. He returned her gesture with a gentle nod of his head.

They reached the city on its gently rising hill, encircled by a dike and protected by a high stone wall. They rode past the shadows of many tall burial mounds, lined with beautiful white flowers, and then reached a cobbled path that climbed the hill in gentle curves. With relief the residents realised that their houses had not been looted and burnt down.

Éowyn rode ahead to the great hall, followed by all those who served the royal household. The citizens gradually dispersed around the city to seek out their homes. Haldir and his band of warriors, however, followed the soldiers up the hill until they reached the green terrace on which the golden hall had been built. Here they dismounted and left their borrowed horses in the care of the Rohirrim. Haldir could see that his men were viewing the city with a mixture of curiosity and mistrust. Few of them had left Lothlórien before and sought out the company of humans, and like the people of Rohan, not all of them spoke or understood Westron. He knew that they considered the Rohirrim to be a primitive and simple people, but also proud and honourable.

A soldier approached them as they waited in the cool winter sun. He addressed Haldir, letting him know that lodgings were being prepared for his warriors and asking forgiveness that they wouldn't be up to Elvish standards. The captain assured him that they were grateful for the hospitality and could spend the night anywhere.

About an hour later, each of his warriors had found a place to rest. There was a house near Meduseld that was used for several purposes. Usually, the Rohirrim stayed there when they were not travelling through the Riddermark. Now it served as a guest house for the Elves from Lórien. Haldir had wanted to room with his companions after inspecting the house and making sure his comrades were comfortable, but Éowyn had insisted that due to his injury he be given her brother's quarters.

He was surprised at how cosy Éomer's chamber looked. It was a large room decorated with ornate tapestries and covered with furs on the floor. Daylight fell through two small glass windows and a large bed stood in front of them. Opposite the bed was a large fireplace and next to it was a desk.

"We are expecting my uncle and brother sometime during the day, but I think my brother would also want you to spend the night here and get rest," Éowyn told him.

Haldir was speechless for a moment. Several of his men could spend the night here. Why should he accept such comfort? He glanced puzzled at Amarië who stood next to him. She gave him an encouraging nod of the head.

"That's more than generous, Lady Éowyn," he replied. "Thank you very much. We will not require your hospitality for more than one night."

"It is an honour," said the young woman. "We have never hosted members of the Eldar before. I hope it meets your requirements."

"It is satisfactory in every way," Haldir assured her.

Éowyn looked pleased and he did not miss the way her eyes glanced furtively back and forth between him and Amarië.

"Please call upon me or one of my servants if you need anything," she asked him. "We won't disturb you as we'll be busy the rest of the day preparing for the celebration."

He nodded politely at her and watched as the young woman left the room. It was quiet for a moment and the two Elves silently took in their surroundings.

"This room is far too big for one person," Haldir said. "They could've accommodated several of us in here."

"Well, you're our captain. They probably want to offer you something better. Shall I ask Fiondil if he would like to share the room with you?" Amarië asked.

Haldir looked at her, slightly shocked, but when he saw the impish glint in her eyes, the mischief rose in him too and his gaze narrowed. He reached out a hand to put it around her waist and pull her towards him until there was only a hand's breadth between them.

"I'd rather you kept me company."

She smiled at him. "I'd love to but you should rest up until tonight if you want to join in the festivities."

"I think that courtesy and decorum require me to be present tonight," he said, not sounding like he was really interested in celebrating with the people of Edoras.

It sounded rather unlike him to voice his displeasure of performing his duties. He noticed his priorities must have undergone a slight shift now that he had started a relationship with Amarië.

"That's right. They are grateful that we came to their aid. We helped them survive," Amarië pointed out, raising a hand to gently tuck a few strands of hair behind his ear.

When her fingers brushed the tip of his ear as if by chance, Haldir shuddered pleasantly and his eyes fluttered shut slightly as he watched her.

Amarië smiled sweetly at him. "Rest now."

She tried to step back, but his hand wouldn't let her go. She looked at him questioningly. Haldir leant forward and whispered at her ear:

"I need help taking off my boots or should I lie down in bed with them?"

She chuckled softly. "My captain, I will gladly help you if you ask me politely."

His blue eyes looked at her insistently as he pulled back a little, as if he understood exactly what kind of teasing behaviour Amarië was displaying towards him. The corner of his mouth twitched in amusement.

"Would you please take off my boots?" he asked in a husky voice.

His tone had exactly the effect he had hoped for. Amarië's pupils dilated and a moment later she placed her hands on his shoulders and pushed him towards the bed. He settled down on the red and gold quilt that covered the duvet and watched carefully as Amarië slowly bent down towards him. Her dark hair fell over her shoulders like shimmering silk as she grasped his right boot and pulled it off his leg. Haldir supported himself on the bed with his hands and leant back a little so he could watch her better. Once she had removed the second boot, she placed it next to the bed and then rested her arms on Haldir's knees, crouching in front of him. Their eyes met in an exchange of gentle admiration. Haldir reached out a hand to cup her face. His thumb stroked her cheekbone tenderly and his heart beat harder as the beautiful elf leant into his touch. It was too incredible that he was allowed to touch her like this. Ever since she had confessed her feelings to him, he had been in a state that he could only describe as stunned. He held his breath as she pushed his legs apart and moved closer to his lap. Heat flooded through him as he felt her hands stroking up his thighs. What was she up to? It was as if her fingertips left fine traces of fire on his trousers, burning through the fabric and into his skin. Her touch fuelled the heat in his stomach to such an extent that he felt the urge to tear off his clothes and expose himself completely to her and surrender to her control.

"Haldir," she whispered and he realised that his mouth had fallen open while watching her when he felt her hand on his chin.

A little embarrassed, he shut his mouth and swallowed hard. "Yes?" he asked, his voice sounding slightly croaky.

Amarië rose a little until she was at eye level with him. "Lie down and get some rest."

"Wha-?" He looked at her in bewilderment as she straightened up and pulled back the duvet.

"Fiondil told me to tell you that you should take the opportunity to sleep in a real bed so you can heal up properly. I'll check on the others."

Amarië noticed his gaze and nudged his nose. "What did you think we were doing here?" she asked teasingly. "We'll have plenty of time for each other later."

Haldir felt a pang of disappointment but he also felt silly for thinking they could exchange a few intimacies while they were in Éomer's room. Was he so befuddled by his affection that he forgot where he was and why he was in Edoras?

"Of course," he murmured, starting to take off his cloak and tunic before he lay down in bed.

"I'll be back soon," Amarië said after he had pulled the covers up to his chest. She bent over him and gently grasped his hand. "I desire you as much as you desire me," she whispered, "but I don't want you to ignore your recovery."

Sighing softly, Haldir lifted his other hand and pushed it into her hair. She smiled lovingly at him and kissed him. His fingers cupped the back of her head as he deepened the kiss. For a moment, they were absorbed in their own world, where there was only the two of them. Then they broke apart and their eyes met as if intoxicated.

"Sleep if you can," Amarië whispered, brushing gently over his eyebrow.

Then she let go of his hand and backed away from the bed.

"I'll take you back to bed if I catch you outside," she said and winked at him.

Haldir chuckled. "I will obey Fiondil's request," he assured her.

"Very good."

With slight regret, his eyes followed her walk to the door and leave the room. He listened to her footsteps in the corridor until they had mingled with the sounds of the other people in the building. Staring motionlessly up at the green canopy, he reviewed what had happened over the last few days. He wondered how long it would take for this intense feeling of joy and bewilderment at his luck to wear off. The Valar meant it well with him, that after all these years of silent longing, his feelings were actually reciprocated. He would do everything in his power to ensure that this happiness was not taken away from him. He fell into a dreamless sleep over this thought.

When Haldir woke up, it was to distant voices that had sounded familiar when they snuck into his dreams. He sat up slowly and tried to recognise the voices. Only a moment later he realised that they belonged to Aragorn and Legolas, who were standing somewhere outside the hall. Shortly afterwards, he also heard the voice of King Théoden. A glance at the window revealed to him that the daylight had faded. How long had he been asleep? It felt like several hours. He wondered when the king had returned with his retinue. He had barely finished this thought when there was a knock at the door.

"Come in!" he called out.

Hoping it was Amarië, he quickly went to meet the person when the door opened, but it was Fiondil. Haldir quickly tried to hide his disappointment.

"Captain, I see you are up. Have you rested well?"

"Far too long," Haldir said a little contritely.

Fiondil grinned. "It was necessary. How are you feeling?"

"Better than this morning."

"That’s good. I will gladly release you from my care if you allow me one last look at your wounds."

Haldir nodded at him and took off his shirt. Fiondil examined his wound for a moment, which looked well healed and was only a fine red line on his skin. He rubbed ointment on the wound one last time and then handed Haldir his shirt.

"You really narrowly escaped death," he said as he watched his captain get fully dressed. "Make the most of the chance you've been given."

Haldir was surprised to hear Fiondil speak so bluntly, but his advice was not unwelcome.

"And treat Amarië well. You are not the only one who likes her."

He met the piercing grey eyes of his healer in surprise, but Fiondil only smiled broadly at him and Haldir swallowed the words that had been on his tongue. He probably deserved this rebuke.

"Now step out into the fresh air and see who has come to Edoras," Fiondil said, opening the door.

Haldir put on his cloak and followed him out.

Aragorn was glad to find him on his feet and in the best of health. He hugged him tightly, which always caught Haldir off-guard but didn't stop him from returning the gesture. The king was also on the terrace and at his side was his nephew Éomer. Both expressed their deepest gratitude for his aid. Haldir assured them once more that it had been a great honour to stand beside their people in their greatest need. Then he turned to Éomer with slight embarrassment, confessing that his sister had put him up in his room and that there was no need to accommodate him so luxuriously. Shaking his head, Éomer put a hand on his shoulder and told him with a broad grin that he would be offended if Haldir refused her offer. Although it was unpleasant for him, the captain didn't want to insist any longer on being given another place to sleep and accepted the hospitality instead.

Together with Aragorn, he walked towards the guest house where the Galadhrim were staying.

As they entered, the Elves looked up from their beds and greeted them. From the doorway, Haldir looked across the large, pillared room, his eyes catching Amarië talking to Legolas in a far corner. They were a little hidden behind a post that supported the roof, but he could clearly see that they were standing close together. They seemed to be talking about something private, for the prince raised his hand to her cheek and stroked it gently. A pang went through Haldir's heart when he saw that Amarië's reaction was a happy smile that lit up her entire face. She pulled Legolas into a tight embrace, which he returned with an equal smile.

Haldir felt his throat slowly constrict as he watched this open display of affection. Normally, Elves saved intimate touches for private places and did not share it with others. He wanted to turn on his heel and leave, but although his emotions ran high at the sight of them, his face was an expressionless mask and he stayed frozen in place.

He was so lost in thought that he flinched when Aragorn spoke to him, asking for his attention. He reluctantly tore himself away from the sight of the two Elves and followed Aragorn through the room. They went from warrior to warrior and Haldir was pleased to see that they were doing well and that those who had been badly injured had recovered in the last few days. Eventually they reached Legolas and Amarië.

"I'm glad to see you well," the prince said with a smile. "You were closer to Mandos' halls than any of us."

Haldir's gaze met him coolly, but he nodded appreciatively at his benevolent words.

"You have also shown yourself valiant in battle, Legolas Thranduilion."

Amarië noticed the unusual emphasis on Legolas' name and gave Haldir a questioning look. The captain's lips narrowed as he caught her gaze.

"Will you be joining in the festivities?"

"Oh, certainly!" replied Legolas. "Gimli would only tease me if I didn't and took him up on his offer of a drinking game."

Aragorn grinned at him.

"Well, as the son of a king who likes to indulge in wine, I am not surprised that you enjoy such games," Haldir replied, and his tone could have frozen the Anduin.

Legolas frowned. "You make that sound like a reproach, yet you appreciate good wine yourself."

"I do, but I also know when to keep my hands off something," said Haldir, glancing meaningfully back and forth between Legolas and Amarië.

With that, he turned on his heel and stalked out of the guest quarters. Aragorn, Legolas and Amarië looked after him in astonishment.

"That was odd," drawled Aragorn and raised an eyebrow in Legolas' direction.

"Not really," he replied.

"I will speak to him."

Legolas grabbed Amarië's arm as she prepared to leave. "Let me do that."

She looked at him uncertainly, as if she feared the situation might escalate.

"Don't worry about it," Legolas assured her before following after the captain.

Amarië sighed softly and gave Aragorn an apologetic look for having witnessed the situation. The Ranger merely shook his head to indicate that all was well and then left her alone with her thoughts.

Contrite, Haldir had left the house, wishing he could retreat into some tall tree whose canopy hid his whereabouts. As this was not an option, he hurried down the path that led out of the city. It wasn't long before he heard familiar footsteps quickly following him. Annoyed, he quickened his pace, stepped through the city gates and out onto the vast meadows. When he was sure he was out of earshot of the city guards, he turned round and saw whom he had not wanted to see.

"Haldir, I need to talk to you!" Legolas called as he sprinted across the wavy grass.

A burst of childish defiance came over Haldir as he watched the Elven prince approach. Talking to him was the last thing he wanted to do.

"I'm sorry, your royal highness, but I see no reason to speak to you," he said with a furrowed brow.

"Are you so full of anger that you're resorting to such formality? You couldn't have been any clearer when you chose to speak to me like that in front of Amarië," Legolas said with a soft sigh.

"You value her opinion so much because you are so close? Is that why you display your affection for her to everyone?" Haldir snapped angrily.

Legolas took a step back in surprise. To hear Haldir speak so bluntly about his feelings was a rare occurrence. "I'm sorry you saw that, but it wasn't what it looked like."

"No?" asked Haldir, sounding suspicious.

For years they had both harboured affection for Amarië and Haldir had never understood why Legolas had never made a move on her. Or perhaps he had and she had rejected him? Haldir frowned.

"I know whom her heart belongs to and I will not interfere."

Disbelief and confusion flitted across Haldir's face. "Why not?" he asked.

"Why not?" repeated Legolas, stunned. "Because she is dear to me and I do not want to hurt her feelings."

"You are the Prince of the Woodland Realm –"

"– and I can have anyone, to quote your words from many years ago. That may be true, but I will not stand between two friends who have been fond of each other for so long."

Haldir stared in disbelief at him until understanding dawned on him. He lowered his head in shame. He felt silly and stupid for the way he had reacted. What must Amarië think of him?

"Legolas… I do not deserve your friendship."

"I think I have a say about that."

"Why did you touch her like that?" Haldir asked quietly.

"Because she told me what had happened between you two in the past few days. I was very happy for her and still am. That's why she embraced me."

"I was so jealous," Haldir said so quietly that it was barely audible.

The prince grinned and put a hand on his friend's shoulder.

"Yes, you are a fool. I've always wanted to say that," Legolas chuckled and Haldir raised his head, only to meet his cheeky grin. "Now, stop this. You didn't come back from the dead to sulk out here in the fields of Rohan."

Haldir's cheeks turned pink and he smoothed a hand over his embarrassed face. "I wasn't dead."

"Well, pretty much, and if you hadn't been breathing, I think I would've gone to Mandos' halls myself and brought you back. You gave Amarië the fright of her life. Let us go back. I'm sure she's already worried and with the way you stormed off, you didn't leave the best impression."

"You're right," Haldir admitted, albeit reluctantly.

He took a deep breath and looked up towards the city. Legolas smiled encouragingly at him and together they walked back.

With the intention of apologising to Amarië, Haldir returned to the Golden Hall. However, he could not find her anywhere. She was neither in the guest house nor in the room they shared, and when he checked the stables, she was not there either. An uneasy feeling came over him that perhaps Amarië was deliberately avoiding him because he had acted like a fool, but then he realised that the few women who were among the Elven warriors were no longer around either. The other Elves could not tell him where they had gone. They had last been seen in the company of some of the Rohirrim women. Legolas looked as perplexed as Haldir when they received this information.

"Well, they can't have disappeared completely," said the prince. "They must be somewhere in the city and we'll probably see them again tonight at the latest."

"You're probably right."

They were overheard by Éomer, who was within earshot of them, and they looked up as he stepped towards them.

"If you are looking for your women, I saw them earlier in the company of my sister," he informed them.

"Do you know where they went?" asked Legolas.

Éomer shrugged his shoulders. "They must be somewhere in the city. I stay out of my sister's affairs. I'm sure we'll see them again tonight at the feast."

"Thank you," Haldir said, nodding to the horse lord, who walked away with a friendly nod of his head.

"Looks like you'll have to hold out for a while yet," Legolas said with an encouraging smile. "Good thing we Elves are blessed with patience."

"Speak for yourself," Haldir grumbled and walked away.

Legolas' laughter followed him.

The evening could not come quickly enough. Waiting had never seemed so long to Haldir. Now that he had the opportunity to seek out Amarië without hesitation, he felt somehow helpless that he could not do so because he simply did not know where she was. Knowing that she was in the city only reassured him to a certain extent. He had considered searching the entire hall and the city, but that seemed paranoid in the end. Legolas seemed more relaxed, though he harboured a degree of affection for the she-elf Haldir didn't want to underestimate. He had taken part in helping with the preparations for the festivities and was passing the time in simpler ways, while Haldir watched the hustle and bustle in the hall with restless nerves. Outwardly, his inner turmoil was not evident. His face was expressionless and the people who passed him gave him furtive glances. He paid no attention to them, but watched carefully who entered and left the Golden Hall, silently hoping that the woman he loved would turn up. Unfortunately, he was disappointed, because when the sun went down, she still hadn't appeared.

The preparations had been completed and space had been made in the hall for almost all the townspeople to attend the celebration. Long tables and benches had been set up and were now lined with savoury food and large barrels of beer. The room gradually filled with Edoras' people. Warm light cast by torches on the walls, candles on the tables and the large fireplace in the centre filled the large room with a cosy glow and made the mosaic of stones on the floor and the great painted pillars shimmer. With anticipation in their eyes, the guests looked up to the dais where their king stood beside his golden chair. He was now nobly dressed and his nephew joined him in equally beautiful robes. Aragorn, who like his companions had found time to bathe after all his exertions, sat in front with Gimli and the hobbits. Not far behind them were Haldir and Legolas. They looked up as Lady Éowyn, now in a white, gold-embroidered dress with a drink in her hands, walked through the aisle between the chairs, stepped up to her uncle and handed him the goblet. Then she also climbed the few steps and stood next to him. With a solemn expression, Théoden let his gaze wander over those present.

"Tonight we remember those who gave their blood to defend this country. Hail the victorious dead," he said, raising his cup.

Everyone stood up and held up their own filled jars, shouting in chorus:

"Hail!"

They drank and sat down again when the king made a gesture with his hand. He glanced at Éowyn and she nodded. Smiling, he turned back to those present.

"As you know, we have guests among us from the north, from the house of the Elves. We are grateful for their aid in our direst need. Tonight, they want to regale us with one of their songs."

Haldir looked at Legolas at his side in astonishment. "Did you know about this?" he whispered.

"No," said the prince. "Since he is not looking in our direction, I assume he means our women."

"Yes, you could be right," muttered Haldir, stroking his chin thoughtfully.

They looked up as a humming sound could be heard from the back of the hall. Dressed in purple velvet dresses that dropped to their ankles, the Elven women came in through a door. Their long hair fell like a wave over their shoulders, and in the light of the torches their pale faces looked so soft and beautiful that many in the hall, who were sitting further away, raised their heads in amazement to see them better. Amarië was the last to step in front of the crowd. It had become deathly quiet as they walked through the rows and finally stood in front of the people. The king had sat down in his chair and his nephew and niece had stepped closer to him.

All eyes were on the Elven women. The warm light caught in their hair and in the silver threads woven into their dresses. They glittered like little stars in the dark firmament. The people watched them, mesmerised. Then they began to sing. The notes were as clear as dewdrops gathering on delicate flowers and the lilting music immersed the listeners in the mysterious world of the Elves. They felt as if time was changing in the hall and becoming that which was foreign to them and known only from stories. The people of Rohan had never heard this language before, and some women pulled out their handkerchiefs and dabbed the corners of their eyes dry as the song came to an end. Even if they did not understand the meaning of the words, they touched something deep in their hearts.

Haldir's gaze was transfixed on Amarië. He had never heard her sing before and when she met his eyes over the crowd, he felt as if she were spinning a glittering web of enchantment over him. He was mesmerised. The song she sang was a familiar one among the Elves of the victory over the forces of Sauron at Gwathló in Eriador.

As the music faded, the magic faded and yet no one dared to clap so as not to destroy the echo of the song. However, when the women bowed their heads slightly, Aragorn stood up and clapped his hands, and the others joined in. Their applause was louder than expected and the Elves looked round in amazement. The king rose and stood beside them, smiling.

"That was a wonderful song, even if I didn't understand the words," he said after the applause had died down.

"It was about a victorious battle," Amarië answered him.

Théoden nodded to her and then looked to those present. "Let the feast begin."

The beer began to flow and the roasted meat was cut up. The hobbits threw themselves overjoyed into the victory frenzy and were soon dancing exuberantly on the tables with mugs of beer in their hands. Minstrels lifted the spirits with cheerful songs, women and children danced in a circle and the maidservants were busy serving food to the merry company. Haldir had stepped up to Amarië as soon as the Elven women joined their companions and had taken her by the hand. His gaze spoke volumes as he looked at her.

"You sang so beautifully," he said reverently, gently stroking the back of her hand with his thumb.

"Could you actually hear me among all the voices?"

"I would hear your voice anywhere. Its sound has burrowed into my heart like tree roots into good soil."

Amarië's smile could have lit up the whole room and she looked to the side, embarrassed.

"I've missed you all day and wondered where you had gone," Haldir said.

"Lady Éowyn approached me and the others, asking if we had dresses for the evening considering we only came for battle. As we didn't she suggested we could get some from her but they wouldn't be our size because we're so tall. We went to help her with that as we were curious about Rohanese clothes," she explained.

"They turned out really beautiful. Why don't we go somewhere private," Haldir suggested.

Amarië's eyes fell on the king, who looked thoughtfully in their direction. "I'd love to, but I think the king wants to talk to you," she said.

Haldir followed her gaze over his shoulder and met Théoden's friendly smile. He looked a little awkward about how to approach them, but eventually he raised his hand as if in greeting. Éowyn then stepped up to the two Elves.

"Sorry to disturb you, but my uncle was wondering if he could have a quick word with you," she said to Haldir.

For a moment an expression of reluctance flitted across his face, but it was so fleeting that Amarië might have imagined it. He nodded at Éowyn's words.

"Of course," he replied and then exchanged a look with Amarië.

She let go of his hand and watched as he stepped towards the king. Théoden greeted him and began a conversation with him, which he could only follow with difficulty as his attention and concentration were taken up by what was going on around him. It didn't help much that they stepped into a quiet part of the hall so that they could hear their own words better. Haldir's eyes kept wandering to Amarië, who joined her companions and then took part in the dance with Legolas. Many an Elf watched the lively party with a sceptical expression, feeling somewhat out of place among all these people, but some of them took a liking to the exuberance and merriment and mingled with the crowd. Aragorn stood not far from Haldir with a mug of ale in his hand and Lady Éowyn at his side. Haldir saw the furtive glances she gave him and wondered if he had looked as yearning as she did all these past years.

He was glad now that the uncertainty was over. With a small smile, he watched Amarië's happy face as she danced around the room with her hair flowing behind her. Her good mood was so infectious that he wondered when his conversation with Théoden would come to an end so that he could join her. Finally, he found the moment to politely end the talk and with a bow, he took his leave and approached the dancers. A moment later he had a laughing Elf at his side, being pushed towards him by a grinning Legolas.

"I'll pass her on to you, because this is the fifth time Gimli has demanded that I finally take part in a drinking game," said the prince.

"Be careful," said Amarië.

"The local beer cannot be any richer in alcohol than my father's wine," said Legolas and walked off laughing.

Amused, Haldir and Amarië looked after him. Then the captain met her eyes and clasped her hand. The warmth and love that met his eyes made his knees weak.

"What did Théoden want to discuss?" she asked.

"He was interested in our culture and ask if we could consider staying here to support him in case of further attacks in Rohan. However, he understands that we must return to Lórien to defend our own homeland against Sauron's armies."

A shadow flitted across Amarië's face. "When will we leave?"

"Shortly after sunrise. The sooner we get back to Lórien, the better."

He noticed her gaze drift to Legolas, who was standing in a corner of the room with his dwarf friend and some Rohirrim, who were enjoying themselves.

"You will have the chance to say goodbye to him," he said. Her eyes darted back to him and he could read surprise in them. "I'm sure we'll see him again."

"You're not upset anymore?"

"I'm sorry for the way I behaved. You share a friendship that I didn't know about and I shouldn't have let my jealousy get the better of me," Haldir said ruefully.

Amarië flicked him sharply on the upper arm. "Rash assumptions do not suit you, Captain."

One corner of his mouth lifted as he looked sheepishly at the ground. "Shall we retire?"

She nodded and he led her out of the noisy hall.They stepped out onto the terrace, which was lit by torches and deserted. The night sky stretched over them like a glittering blanket and Haldir used the moment to gently pull Amarië into his arms. She placed her hands on his hips and gazed at him lovingly.

"Do you want to spend eternity with me?" he whispered against her mouth.

"Yes," she replied, her eyes reflecting the longing in his eyes.

"Would you allow me to woo you?"

"For a little while, because I think we've waited long enough for each other and I think I already know you very well."

"Do I have to worry about revealing something you don't know yet that would make you run away?" he asked, stroking her cheek gently as this suppressed worry reared its head briefly.

"No," she whispered.

Haldir leant forward and gently rested his forehead against hers. "Then I wish to become betrothed to you as soon as peace has been established."

"I wish that too," Amarië said and pressed her lips against his.

It was as if all doubts and burdens fell away from Haldir as he held her tighter and deepened the kiss. A sound from the door made them pull apart, but when they looked up, they only saw a couple, giggling as they left the party and running down the stairs.

"Shall we go to my room?" Haldir asked against Amarië's ear, his lips brushing lightly against her skin, making her shiver.

She nodded and he took her hand. They hurried into the house and through the corridors so quickly that they arrived at Haldir's bedroom in no time at all. They quickly entered and Haldir locked the door. Seconds later he was holding Amarië in his arms again. He dropped all restraint as he surrendered to their combined passion. It took only a few moments before they both lay exposed on the bed and looked deep into each other's eyes. Then they kissed again and savoured the incredible feeling of skin on skin for the first time. They lost each other to soft and fervent kisses, leaving them everywhere and enjoying the simplicity of it.

"You're my everything," Haldir whispered when he placed a kiss on Amarië's heart.

"And you're mine," she replied with the softest of smiles.

"I have you now, Timbridhil nín."

He combed his fingers through her dark hair, lying tousled against the pillow and framing her flushed face like a dark halo. Her eyes were full of love as she stared up at him. After that no more words were needed anymore. They lost themselves to the demanding touch of their hands and lips, the caress of feet against calves, and the sensual sensation of soft hair on skin. Haldir had never felt such joy before when he showed his beloved how much she meant to him, body and soul. She was the most beautiful thing when she came undone under his touch. They made love until the stars dimmed in the sky and their heartbeats slowed to the rhythm of the gentle early morning breeze, fingers now leisurely dragging over cooled down skin.

After they had some rest, they tidied up the room with gentle glances towards each other and then went to prepare for the journey home. Only some maids were up when they walked through the still house. While Haldir went to the guesthouse to get his warriors, Amarië went in search of Legolas. She found him outside on the terrace, staring towards the east, in the direction of Minas Tirith.

"Mellon nín," she greeted him and he turned around.

He took a look at her and a grin formed on his face as she stepped closer.

"You are glowing," he stated the obvious, chuckling.

She lifted a hand in warning, "Say nothing."

"Is it time for you to return home?" he asked, his smile waning.

She nodded, "It is."

"I will miss you dearly," he admitted.

She frowned in sadness and put her hand on his shoulder. "Promise me we'll see each other again."

"By the Valar, we will."

With that he bent forward and kissed her on the cheek. Amarië felt tears pricking at her eyes but she swallowed them down quickly.

"Namarië," he said, stepping back as he saw Haldir at the bottom of the terrace.

"Namarië," she said and then walked down the stairs.

Haldir's face was relaxed as he watched them and lifted a hand towards Legolas in greeting. The prince returned the gesture.

"Should we not wait and say goodbye to the king?" Amarië asked when she reached him.

"It's alright. He's aware we're leaving early. There's no more time to dawdle. A shadow is approaching our home and we have to return as swiftly as possible," he said, turning his head when he heard his warriors approach.

"So you've felt it too," Amarië remarked.

His eyes met hers and in silent understanding they nodded at each other.

"I'm glad I'll have you at my side, meleth nín. Together we can fight this evil and look towards a brighter future."

"Remind me to tease you about this change of mind. You used to be very gloomy regarding the future."

"Remind me to let you know that I've found the light that has brightened my darkness."

A smile broke out on her face which he returned in equal measure. They looked up when Fiondil stepped towards them.

"Let's get you lovebirds home," he said and dodged Haldir's elbow when it aimed for his side.

They glanced one last time up to the Golden Hall before they walked down the path and out of the city to head towards Lórien.

Author's notes: Thank you so much for reading!! If you made it this far and didn't get bored I congratulate you. I would very much appreciate it if you could leave me a like and reblog my story. It's been nearly a year since I started this and I can't believe it took me so long to finish it. I have so many other ideas I want to write down 😂 Thank you to all of you who have cheerleaded for me. ❤

Please check out my other works here.

#haldir #i love them your honour

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