Title & Chapter Number: Destiny’s Moment 7/?
Author(s): - Author's Index
Fandom: Tolkien
Rating: R
Disclaimer: I am writing fan fiction solely for my own enjoyment and do not claim any copyright or ownership nor do I have intent to make financial gain from Tolkien's wonderful world. Jadriel is my character conceived from my mind. Embrelle is a character who was from the mind of my good friend, Milena, who graciously allowed me to continue the story when she decided not to help with the writing.
Warnings: Het Romance, some violence, rape (only minimally described)
Betas: Dorothy…'The Great'
Cast: Haldir/OFC, Legolas/OFC, Rúmil, Orophin, Galadriel, Celeborn, The Fellowship, other OCs
Timeline: TA around the time of the Fellowship
Spoilers: None
Summary: Feeling saddened by her mother's death and abandoned by her father, Jadriel makes a heart wrenching decision. For Jadriel this moment of destiny comes when she chooses to give up her elven heritage and leave Lórien. She begins a new life as a human and lives as a ranger. She makes a new friend, Embrelle. The present story picks up where Jadriel feels compelled to return to Lórien and is faced with her past in an effort to help the Fellowship.
Notes: Alternate titles I liked: "Jadriel's Choice', and my personal favorite "How to Loose a Marchwarden in 10 Millennia". Dedication: To Dorothy, my beta, who has worked hard to help me correct my many grammatical and spelling flaws and have given me encouragement to keep writing. My deepest heart felt thanks for all her enthusiasm and hard work.
Part VII: Departures
Embrelle woke to the sparkling light of the morning sun. Lothlórien was indeed quite enchanting in the morning light. The leaves of the great mellyrn took on a golden hue in the autumn. The sunlight shimmered off the dew-covered leaves in the morning breeze. Jadriel was nowhere to be found, and none present knew of her whereabouts. But Embrelle was less concerned and less depressed this day. To her the cheer of the Lothlórien morning was refreshing, even renewing to her spirits, so completely unlike the darkness of night in the Golden Wood. The twilight and night had been oppressive, ominous, even frightening. The shadows cast by the lanterns yielded many dreaded shapes that could be mistaken for creatures by an inexperienced and overactive imagination. The laments that rang forth from the trees only added to the despair projected by the woods. Jadriel’s fears had echoed clearly in Embrelle’s mind and this feeling of imprisonment with being guarded was stifling. All this led Embrelle to want to flee the Golden Wood for more familiar territory. Only her love for her friend Jadriel and her desire to help the Fellowship quenched these raging emotions in her. But morning in the Lothlorien was enlightening. Bright, cheery and light with the singing of the birds, the smells of the morning meals being prepared and the scurrying of the local Galadhrim. Embrelle noticed that even the Fellowship’s mood had improved. Bright laughter could be heard as the Hobbits arose and prepared for the morning meal. Embrelle sat pondering her next move and tidying her things. She had decided that she must use what knowledge Gandalf had given her to aid the Fellowship. She watched Frodo. She could sense the weight of responsibility the ring placed on his small shoulders. She knew her task lay with his path. She felt strongly that she was meant to assist the ringbearer. She found herself drawn to the hobbits, wonderful friendly fun-loving little fellows…so very different from the sublime Elves she had thus far met. When she saw Samwise approaching, she became excited. She felt this was her chance to gain their trust.
Samwise stopped and bowed graciously. "Mistress Embrelle, we wish the honor of your company for the morning meal." He blushed somewhat at the request. "We have noticed that you are once again alone and the Lady Jadriel is not to be found."
"Thank you Master Gamgee, but I should look for my friend." Embrelle smiled at his shyness.
"Milady, you did not eat last night. You need to keep up your strength. Please stay for breakfast. You should eat something. Perhaps, we can speak with Legolas and have him convince the Elves to allow us to look for your friend," Sam offered. "We could tell you how your friend Raven aided us in getting to Rivendell. She has quite an amazing bird and horse friend."
Embrelle smiled kindly at the urgings of the friendly little Hobbit and finally gave in to the reasoning. She was very interested in the adventures Jadriel had with the Hobbits and Aragorn as they traveled from Bree to Rivendell.
Breakfast was most enjoyable with the Hobbits. Never had Embrelle experienced such fun little folk, and found their talk of Jadriel most enlightening. Jadriel had not had the time to speak with Embrelle of the significance of the ring or of her reasons for being so committed to the Fellowship or her desire to help them. The Hobbits, however, had much to say. They told her how they had been fleeing the Nazgûl and had come upon a black-cloaked figure in the forest. They told how Strider had attacked this figure only to discover it had been Raven, a fellow ranger, and how she had traveled with them and hid them in her cave for the night, away from the pursuing Nazgûl. They told how she had helped protect them and fought the Nazgûl atop Amon Sûl until Strider returned to defeat the Wraiths. They told of how Raven and Celestar had been instrumental in helping Arwen save Frodo after his stabbing by the Morgul blade. Apparently she knew much of Rivendell, although none of the traveling members at the time had realized she was an Elf.
By now, Embrelle was beginning to feel very much at home with the Hobbits and also shared her memories of Jadriel. She told of how they had first met. Embrelle had been looking for an escaped white Mearas, one that would allow none to ride. She had tracked the runaway horse to the edge of the forest, and had not yet found the horse when she heard a lone female crying in the woods. This had been some nine or ten months ago. The crying woman introduced herself as Raven and explained that she was a ranger but had missed her original home. She explained that her travels had taken her to the edge of a forest she called the Golden Wood but that she did not return fearing punishment. Embrelle had befriended her that day. Jadriel helped her new friend find the escaped Mearas. The horse took an instant liking to Jadriel, and allowed her to approach with ease. Embrelle had never met one who could approach the horse. Embrelle finally had left for Edoras with the horse, only to discover that it was so unhappy that she set it free. The next day, when she had gone to visit her new friend in the woods, she discovered the Mearas had found her way back to Jadriel. It was the most remarkable transformation Embrelle had ever seen. From across the plain, Embrelle watched Jadriel riding the horse as if the animal had wings, exhibiting such grace and speed as no horse she had ever seen. Embrelle watched Jadriel dismount only to have the horse follow as a puppy. Embrelle watched as Jadriel spoke to the horse as if it were a sentient being, and marveled at the rapport the two had managed. When she finally greeted Jadriel, Embrelle told of what she had witnessed and promised never to try to return the horse to the king. The two women had many adventures before Jadriel left Rohan for the northern forests again. Meeting her near the Misty Mountains had been the first time Embrelle had seen Jadriel in many months. The Hobbits enthusiastically listened to all Embrelle had to tell.
When breakfast finished, Jadriel felt energized, ready to do something, anything. Again the impatience and restlessness she was so famous for began to surface. Legolas watched Embrelle with interest and slight amusement. He watched her restring her bow and fletch a few new arrows. He watched as she paced back and forth in the campsite only to settle into cleaning her sword and honing her knives.
When he found he could take it no more, he offered her an opportunity to work off some of her nervous energy. "Restless little one, may I take you to a place near the edge of town where you may use that energy of yours more constructively?" He smiled at her expression when he offered her his arm.
She blushed at the offer. "Nay, my attentions are quite occupied at the moment," she stated quite tersely.
Undeterred, Legolas continued. "But I beg to differ, Milady. I have watched you pacing for quite some time," he said, as he smiled warmly to Embrelle.
"Many thanks for your kind offer, but I am quite comfortable presently. My friend is likely to return any minute." Embrelle retreated somewhat closer to her campsite at his friendly advances.
At this point Legolas laughed loudly, quite amused at the turn of the conversation. "Please do not be concerned for my intentions, I only offer to take you to the archery practice fields. I too could use the distraction from boredom and would welcome your company."
Embrelle’s face seemed to brighten as she reached for her bow and quiver. Legolas’ heart warmed. This was the first success he had had reaching out to her. Perhaps he could learn more of her link to Gandalf and why she was so upset at his death.
As they walked the path toward the edge of Caras Galadhon, Legolas took the opportunity to appease his curiosity. "You spoke much of your friend, little one, but nothing of your life."
"What is it you would you have me say? My life lacks the charm or excitement of an elf." Her tone was very subdued.
Legolas had found himself quite charmed by this little quick tongued spite and continued his pursuit with increasing interest. "Have you lived in Rohan all your life?"
"All my twenty long years." Sarcasm and sadness laced the brusque answer.
"So much bitterness from one so young," Legolas smiled even warmer than usual to his new companion.
"I apologize that I am but a mere mortal and have not lived millennia as you. I am sorry my attitude does not meet with your approval!" Embrelle stormed off ahead of Legolas.
Legolas quickly closed the distance between them and put a gentle hand on her shoulder. "I am sorry to upset you. I only wish to help. Tell me of your life in Rohan. I too love to ride and have traveled far and wide on horseback. Do your parents still live in Edoras?" His voice was much softer this time, full of genuine interest for his feisty little friend.
Embrelle’s face seemed to darken. "I know little of my mother. She died with I was born. My father raised me. I knew little of him either. He tried as best as he could, but he had always wished for a son. I tried with all my might to be the son he would never have. He taught me to ride and to fight. He cared for me greatly, but was away much of the time. He was killed in battle when I was only eleven. I was raised in the house of Théoden King, as he felt responsible for me. My father was one of his Marshalls." Embrelle’s hardened exterior had nearly melted as she spoke of her past.
Legolas could sense her impending tears but needed to know of Gandalf. "I saw you crying in the woods last night. Who is Gandalf to you, that his passing would hurt you so deeply?" He turned to face her, gently placing his hands on both of her shoulders.
Embrelle looked into the crystal blueness of his eyes, searching for his reasons for persisting. "He was my friend, my godfather and mentor. He took an interest in me and felt the need to teach me of my mother and her people." Embrelle could not hold back tears any longer.
As she began to sob in her grief, Legolas pulled her close and stroked her hair gently in an attempt to comfort her. "Was your mother not from Rohan?"
"I do not know from whence she came. My mother was Maiar."
Legolas’ heart raced at the words. Was it possible? Was there a hope she could have inherited the immortality of her mother? He dare not even consider these hopes as he held the sobbing, broken-hearted beauty that he had known could be a fiery-tongued combatant.
~*~*~*~
Rumil walked sleepy-eyed into the room where he left Orophin to watch Haldir. He had slept much too late. The sun had been up for hours. It was unusual for Elves to sleep so late. His body was still tired from his vigilant watch of his brother last night. He entered the room and frowned.
He swatted Orophin across the top of the head. "Why do you sleep brother? You are supposed to be watching Haldir!" Annoyance was clearly evident in his tone of voice.
"What is the matter with you, Rumil? Haldir still sleeps under the spell of the Lady. Nothing has happened." Orophin was clearly upset at his abrupt awakening.
"Go lay down then, if you must sleep. I will watch our brother properly."
Undisturbed by the ruckus from his brother’s argument, Haldir continued to dream of his past life.
Haldir saw one of the happiest days of his life. As usual, he returned from weeks at the Northern Fences. He went to the talan of his beloved. Jadriel was not to be found. Instead there was a message place by the door that read, "Rest today, my Protector of Lórien, I will return by tomorrow."
The next day, Haldir came to Jadriel’s talan for the midday meal thinking she should have had time enough to return. He found not Jadriel but a puzzle. On a dagger by her door was a sign that read, " Come to the gate below the tracking sun." This could only mean the white gate of the city as it was situated nearly south. He happily made his way to the gate expecting some adventure with Jadriel in the forest only to be confronted with another riddle. The message on the gate read, "Take the path of flowing silver, the blade will point the way." The arrow by the note pointed west up the Silverlode. Haldir started off, thinking to himself, "This is shaping up to be quite the expedition." Twenty minutes down the Silverlode, Haldir came upon a long sword pointing in a northeasterly direction. The message attached read, "Enter the realm of the pool of endangered virtue." Haldir quirked a wicked smile. What teasing had Jadriel been up to? This was his favorite swimming pool – the very place he had once unknowingly watched Jadriel swimming unclad. Haldir now began to sprint through the Golden Wood. He ran with the grace of a gazelle and the speed of a Mearas through the trees. As he approached the pools, he slowed for he knew not what ensnarement Jadriel set with such an alluring enticement. Jadriel had been watching and was aware of Haldir’s arrival. As he approached, she removed her cloak and slid silently into the waters to surface within the falls.
Haldir surveyed the pool for Jadriel. Initially he saw no sign, but he could feel her presence nearby. This time of day the sun was angled just right to illuminate the falls and glisten off the surface of the water giving the appearance of many sparkling jewels. But what was that? Among the radiance of the refracted sunlight was a sparkle of gold, shimmering just as brightly but definitely not sunlight reflected from the water. Haldir allowed his eyes to adjust to the brightness. When at last he could see clearly, Haldir realized the point of golden color was from the Jewel of the Golden Star, which adorned the neck of his beloved. Jadriel played merrily under the falls, seemingly unaware of his arrival. She emerged from the falls in full view, allowing the water to wash over her head and drain down the golden locks of hair onto her back. The long wet golden hair clung to her back and shoulders outlining her torso. Her skin was fair and glowing. As she turned around in his direction, Haldir gasped. He had never seen a more lovely sight as at that moment. Her own radiance seemed to outshine even that of the Golden Star, which hung tantalizingly close to her breasts. He stared transfixed at the sight of her walking toward him in the glimmering pool. He was not sure this was not really a dream. What act had he done to have the Valar so richly reward him he knew not. He watched as she disappeared into the pool leaving the sparkling ringlets on the surface where she once stood. The trance was broken as Jadriel surfaced by the bank and threw cool water onto him. She laughed playfully. "I thought you said my virtue was always safe in your care." She taunted.
"Lirimaer, you should not bath alone in the forest."
She smiled at the familiar words. "My Protector of Lórien, it seems you are forever repeating yourself."
He ran through the water, wrapped his cloak around her and swept her up into his arms. He kissed her deeply as though it had been a century since their last meeting. "Melamin, on this day no greater beauty have I beheld in all of Lórien." He carried her gleefully to the bank where they fell into a tumbled heap on the lush velvety grass. Haldir’s eyes were glazed with desire as he stared into his beloved’s. With one arm around her shoulders he pressed her body to his. With his other on her cheek, he gently guided her lips to his. He placed soft kisses to her lips. Each kiss ever stronger until neither could stand the teasing any longer and locked into a hungry embrace. Haldir trailed kisses up to her sensitive ear tips. Each scintillating touch of his tongue sent shudders down her spine. She moaned softly, arching her head back gracefully. He responded by trailing wispy kisses along the exposed side of her neck. With his free hand, he proceeded to trace a path along her jaw line to her chin, lazily connecting the droplets that remained on her skin from her dip in the pool. His caressing fingers continued their journey down the front of her neck to the dimple that lie at its base. His fingertip idly swirled the collected water then began streaming it out from the center into graceful rays forming a sunburst design across her skin. She giggled from the feel of his touch. He glided his hand softly over her breast with the fluidity of silk sliding over chiffon. Jadriel closed her eyes to savor the luxury of the sensation. He could feel her nipple firm as he hovered tantalizing near. She was aware of his ever-growing need pressed into the exposed flesh of her thigh.
She heard his breath grow more ragged as he brushed his face beside her ear and whispered. "Just what have I done to deserve…"
But he never got to complete his compliment. Just then, Jadriel’s eyes burst open and excitedly she urged, "I forget myself in your arms O’ Protector. Come! I must show you what I brought."
Haldir sat back somewhat dumbfounded. He was in no frame of mind to change activities so -abruptly. "But…"
"No…silly…there will be time enough for all things later. Hurry now, while the sun still shines. I must show you what I have brought!" The starlight in her eyes twinkled more brightly than Eärendil rising on a warm summer’s eve. Her smile broadened as she gathered herself to rise.
She wrapped his cloak around her and grabbed his hand to lead him to the other side of the pool. "Over here quickly." Her sudden burst of enthusiasm was intoxicating to him. He began to laugh with her and scampered playfully behind allowing her to pull him along.
"Melamin, what is so special about today?" He too was now aglow with her joy.
She arrived at the bank where her clothes lay. Hurriedly, she dressed, arranging the shimmering pale blue gown and peered in the pool to assure herself all was in place. "You remember when I was just an elfling?" Her eyes met Haldir’s. She appeared almost innocent. Almost…
"Indeed…" He answered unsure of where this was going.
"And you always brought me things…" She trailed off hoping she had said enough.
"Yes…" Haldir replied, stilled puzzled what this had to do with what was happening presently.
"Today is the anniversary." She proclaimed expectantly.
Haldir had no clue. His mind raced over the centuries mentally scratching off possibilities. He knew it was not the day they first met or the day they first kissed or even the day they first made love. "Of what?" He finished this thought out loud wearing a blank expression.
"On this date, many years ago, you presented me with the gift of your father’s bow."
She brought the tiny bow and arrow set out from under its drape to show them off. They were in immaculate condition after centuries. Polished and set on a wood mounting that was embellished with carvings and gold inlay.
Jadriel spoke, " It is most beloved to my heart. Of all the gifts you have bestowed upon me, only that of your time I cherish more than this bow! That is why this date is so special to me. I look forward to its coming every year. This year I wanted to do something special for you."
The great warden’s features softened. He sank to sit cross-legged on the forest floor, all the while smiling at the bow. A far off look came across Haldir’s face as he manipulated the miniature weapon. It appeared to Jadriel as if he had been taken back to some distant time. "I remember feeling the same when Atar gave it to me."
All at once, he got up and started running around like an elfling. He hid behind a tree and jumped out in front of her with a tiny arrow notched. He snuck up from the side and leaped over a rock to "make his escape". He scaled a nearby tree and shot arrows in a circle, narrowly missing his beloved. He laughed as if he were an elfling playing this game with his companions. Jadriel hopped to the side a little with each strike of an arrow but could not help but laugh at his antics as well.
He jumped out of the tree in front of her; "Do you surrender yet?"
Jadriel grabbed at the bow. "Give that to me before something happens to it!" Her hand swiped fruitlessly through the air. Every time she was close, he would jerk it away and laugh. Over and over he taunted until finally she jumped in his direction leaving him no alternative but to spring up a tree to "make his escape".
While she was looking for him, Haldir descended another tree. Playfully he crept up from behind with arrow notched. Just as he was about to announce his "capture", she turned only to back right into the tiny arrow. She whirled while holding the offended body part and snatched the bow from his hand. "I believe you have had enough fun, my darling elfling warden." Suddenly, she was not laughing.
Haldir straightened from his playful stance. "Oh, my love, I am sorry!" He tried to appear concerned, but he looked as if he would burst. Gasps of stifled laughter could be heard escaping through his clenched teeth. He reached out to soothe the impaled region of her right butt cheek. "Here, let me ease the pain of your wound. I will tend to it very well. I have treated many battle wounds," he offered, a crooked smile still adorning his face. He came up from behind and started to rub her backside with the palm of his hand.
Jadriel did not allow him to see her smile. She assured herself the bow was out of danger, then stuck a leg between his boots and took him to the ground with a well-practiced combat maneuver. The Marchwarden of Lórien landed in a heap on his backside. Now Jadriel was laughing.
"You seemed to have recovered quickly from your injury, my love," Haldir stated. His sparkling eyes captured her attention long enough for him to counter her move and send her sprawling as well. He quickly maneuvered to gain advantage, and Jadriel found herself pinned to the forest floor. She broke the hold when she freed a leg and flipped him off her by hooking it around his neck. The "battle" continued with one gaining advantage and the other breaking a hold for some time until both were well fatigued. Their seasoned warrior skills served each well, both in combat and in this game. Each move was expertly executed. Breathing was ragged from the physical activity but made more difficult through the laughter.
Finally, Jadriel pinned Haldir from behind only to have him slip through the hold and end up behind her with a move she could not break. The Marchwarden had wrapped both his legs around her and locked them crossed in front over her bent knees. She was unable to straighten her legs to kick or counter. He had reached around from her back to cross her arms over her chest and held them firmly in place. Muscles of stone lay across her arms, and she could not move them. She wriggled in his grasp until the futility of the situation was clear, so she relaxed in his arms. "I concede to your superior skill, O’Protector of Lórien."
When the effort of breathing finally eased, Haldir proclaimed, "It would seem hand to hand combat is made somewhat more difficult in a gown, my brave warrior." His satisfied laughter rang far across the pools. His hold became once again a lover’s embrace. "I have earned a kiss for my victory." Haldir claimed his prize.
Fully recovered, both got up and dusted off their clothes. Jadriel’s gown hung in tatters, but she didn’t even seem to notice. "I have a gift to show you."
"There is more?"
"Protector, have you had quite enough?" Her eyes sparkled with mischief. "Over here." Jadriel walked to a large draped object, and removed the sheet to reveal a large painting of an elf female.
Haldir dropped to his knees, hands covering his face. He rubbed his eyes in disbelief, his voice cracking. "Atara …It is a painting of my mother. Where…How…"
"I painted it for you, my beloved. Painting has been my distraction while you were on patrol. I used to travel the forests and practice painting landscapes or birds. I love to watch birds." She smiled gently.
"But…you never knew my mother." He probed, eyes never leaving the portrait.
"I saw her once in The Lady’s mirror."
Haldir shot her a questioning look. "No, it was nothing bad. Only a childhood scene you told me of many times. She was so…
"…beautiful." Haldir finished the sentence. "There are many things I would liked to have said. I miss her greatly. I would that I could hear her words of counsel again. She was taken when I was quite young. My brothers were left with me to guide them." Now, he held the painting. With one hand, he traced each brush stroke so as to caress his mother’s face once more.
"I have brought more." She handed him a very old set of bound parchments. The set contained three very old books.
"What are these?" He asked as he accepted the books.
"Read the cover," she prodded.
"The Books of My Children – Haldir," The Marchwarden’s words once more resounded with disbelief. "It cannot be."
"These are journals of your mother’s life with her children. There is one book for each of you. After your parents’ death, they were placed in The Lady’s care until such time it was deemed appropriate to give to you. I only learned of their existence last week. I begged The Lady to allow me the opportunity to return them to you and your brothers. She granted my request. I have not looked upon their pages.
Haldir set aside two of the books and gazed upon the book bearing his name. By now, the sun was low in the sky and night began to creep slowly over the Golden Wood. Jadriel lit a lantern and hung it on a branch near him. The Marchwarden sat cross-legged on the forest floor, captivated by the gift he held. Jadriel spread out her cloak and sat down, opening the food basket she had prepared. Then she curled up behind Haldir, wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her chin on his left shoulder as she peered at the cover of the ancient book. "Why don’t you go ahead and open it?" she urged, curiosity and anticipation getting the best of her.
Jadriel never felt more at ease than when she held her beloved. Haldir remembered the warmth of her relaxed embrace as having marked some of the happiest times in his life. He took her comfort as a signal to continue. Reverently, the Marchwarden opened the delicate pages of the manuscript. He slowly turned the pages, scanning through the body of the journal, then returned to the very first entry. He began to read for the first time the words his mother had written over three millennia ago.
~*~*~*~
I know this day I carry a child. He will be my first born. Joy floods my heart. His father and I shall call him Haldir.
For he shall be tall and strong as his father, noble and loyal in deed as his grandfather, brave and fearless as his uncle, my brother. A hero to his homeland.
Though yet too small to touch or hold, this gift to my womb brings great rejoicing to my lonely heart.
Blest be Ilúvatar for this gift! Blest be the Valar for this charge! May we honor all by our diligent care to our coming son.
Never would I believe I could love one so deeply that I am yet to meet! I love you my beloved son – Haldir!
~*~*~*~
Haldir’s voice cracked and trailed off to a whisper as he neared the ending. Jadriel sat, steadfastly holding him without changing position allowing him the time to process the words of one so dear to his soul. Haldir never looked back in her direction as he fought not to blink. But Jadriel knew the mist covering his eyes grew heavy as he struggled to hold back his tears.
The Marchwarden read ceaselessly late into the night. Most of the time he read silently to himself. Sometimes he would laugh, and Jadriel held him. Sometimes he would cry, and Jadriel continued to hold him. Sometimes he would read passages aloud, and Jadriel would smile. She loved for him to share special things in his life with her. To hear the words his mother used to describe his life was amazing to Jadriel. She munched contently as he read. Periodically she would interrupt his reading to offer him a bite or sip of wine. Once while reading during a particularly long silent period, he trembled in her arms. Jadriel had never seen him tremble. She loosened her embrace and snuggled her head against his back to lend reassurance until he stopped. Haldir continued to read quietly for some time longer.
Finally, Haldir turned around and smiled. "Melamin, listen to this." His eyes were twinkling. He began to read aloud to her:
~*~*~*~
Today is the anniversary of my begetting day. My three beloved sons surprised me with wonderful gifts. My sweet Rumil’s gift was a hand-painted jewel box that he had sculpted himself. So beautiful…the colors remind me of the shades of sky and grassy meadows. My wonderful Orophin brought me a lovely set of combs crafted by the forest ladies. My husband smiled at me when I looked questioningly into his eyes and later told me that Orophin had labored in their fields many long months to earn the gift from the ladies. My beloved Haldir, never before had I remembered such satisfaction and joy in his face as when he proudly handed me his present.
To my utter amazement and delight the box contained a fine hand woven silken scarf. The pastels were the colors of my flower garden. The material was so light and sheer as to feel weightless, and the weave so fine that it could only be the work of a master. My husband beamed at his son and later told me Haldir had worked many hours in the woodshop carving requests for the weaver – jewel boxes, shelves, tables – to earn his present. I think I have never seen his father be more proud of his son. I wrapped the scarf around my head and to my great delight, my somewhat reserved Haldir jumped into my arms and kissed me sweetly and said, "Ile naa vanima, Nana!" I swept up my beloved son and twirled him through the air. He laughed playfully. His brothers now came running at me for their turn. A more splendid day, I have never known. I shall never forget. Thank the Valar for my precious elflings.
~*~*~*~
Jadriel saw Haldir’s distant smile as he read the passage. She realized and spoke aloud excitedly. "It is the vision from the Lady’s mirror! The scarf in the painting! Your mother was writing of this day in the story that you so often told me of!"
"Yes it was…" Haldir’s voice trailed off in thought. "I never saw my mother look more…"
"…beautiful." Jadriel finished his sentence this time. By now Jadriel had both arms draped around his neck standing on her knees to read the page as he read aloud to her. She smiled at the thought of that day as Haldir reflected on his own experience of it. Jadriel kissed away a single salty tear just as it brimmed his lower lid, sparing him the need to wipe it from his face.
Haldir continued his slow progression through the years of his mother’s memories. Finally he closed the book. The hour was late. He turned to kiss Jadriel. "Doila ile, Melamin. Amin mela ile, my dearest. These gifts you brought have given me unspeakable joy. If I never live another day, I will rejoice for living this day." The remainder of the night was spent blissfully in each other’s arms. At last utterly spent, both drifted off to sleep.
Jadriel woke to the kiss of the sunlight blazing through the golden leaves. It was a glorious way to start the day. The sunrise of morning was always her favorite time of day. She contently listened to Haldir’s soft breathing as he slept with her still cradled in his arms. She foolishly hoped the moment would never end. As she shifted her position, Haldir awoke.
"Quel amrun, a’mealamin," he said somewhat dreamily as if still recovering from the intoxicating effect of the previous evening. "Perhaps we can stay like this all day." He tightened his embrace and nuzzled her neck.
"We have much to do today," Jadriel said somewhat tentatively.
"What must we do, my beloved? I have returned after weeks from the northern marches of our lands. I have the rest of the week to myself. I may spend it as I choose. I know of no way I would rather spend it than just as I am now." He smiled and pulled her closer.
Jadriel turned to look into Haldir’s eyes, searching for a way to say what she must. Those beautiful grey-blue eyes captured her just as they always had when he gazed at her, and Jadriel’s resolve melted. She flushed and lowered her eyes. "I must talk to you."
Haldir cupped his hands gently around her face and guided her eyes to meet his. "I must talk to you as well, Melamin. His voice was soft, nearly a whisper. His eyes were warm, even glowing; his smile was gentle and loving. His golden hair was silhouetted by the rising sun that set its edges ablaze. Jadriel had never seen him as this before. He continued, not allowing her to finish. "Long have I lived. Many have I known, Melamin. Never have I met one such as you. When we are together I feel as though you are a part of me, just as my hand. Together we are as one. It has been true whether we practice together, walk together, battle together, talk together or love together. In all ways your presence makes me whole…completes me." He pulled her to him, wrapping his arms around her. Probing eyes stared unblinking into hers searching for her response. "My Jadriel, though we have never spoken of it, I ask now. Would you be willing to bind with me as my wife? Amin mela ile, Melamin."
Haldir saw the sparkle in her eyes and the warmth of her soft glow as she reached to caress his face. "My beloved Haldir, I have loved you all my life. You have been my strength and my life in my darkest moments. For years I have longed to hear these words. I wish more that all the stars in the heavens to bind with you, my beloved. But I have also brought you here to speak with you on another matter. I must leave fair Lothlórien. My father’s condition has worsened. I fear for him. The Lady Galadriel has recommended that he be taken to Rivendell to the ministrations of Lord Elrond. I know not for how long I will be away or when I will able to return to my beloved Golden Wood, but I make you this promise, a’maelamin. When my duty to my father is fulfilled and I may once again live in the Golden Wood, I will bind myself to you if it is still your desire, for it will always be mine. Do not fear what time must pass - for me, there will be no other."
Hope rose in Haldir’s heart and shone in his eyes as he drew near and pressed his lips to hers melding her body to his. He broke the kiss to whisper near her ear. "Nor will there be any other for me. Long will I await your return. I pledge my love and trust to you always, Melamin.
"As I pledge my love and trust, My Protector. Already, I long for the day of my return!"
Haldir yielded to Jadriel’s embrace and spent the remaining hours of daylight by the glistening pool where he first looked upon her with desire.
The next day Haldir’s company escorted the travel party to the edge of the Golden Wood. Jadriel was dressed in a sky blue gown and cream-colored travel cloak as part of the royal entourage to Rivendell. Haldir remembered how much he treasured the last beautiful vision of his beloved as she stood framed by the silvery bark of the great Mellryn. He stood facing her one last time, gently holding her hand to his breast.
She smiled bravely at him with sparkling blue sad eyes as she spoke to him. "My beloved, I do not know when I will return, years will likely pass. I shall miss you." Haldir took the edge of his cloak to wipe her tears away.
Haldir bowed to kiss her hand, and as he did, a single warm tear slid from his face to wet her skin. He drew her to him for one last embrace. "As I will miss you, Melamin."
High on an observation talan in a great Mellorn, Haldir stood alone with his thoughts as he watched the travel party disappear across the plain. The Misty Mountains stood majestically in the distance, beckoning the travelers toward them and ever farther from the Golden Wood. The westward setting sun painted the snow capped peaks ablaze with reds and golds.
Haldir watched the party’s departure until he could see only the mountains standing alone in the distance, then he lowered his head in despair. A single tear rolled down his cheek and dropped to stain the toe of his boot. In his sadness, he remembered reading the words of his mother:
~*~*~*~
Patience and practice will master you the skill of the bow. Patience is required for all things that are worth having, my son.
~*~*~*~
He looked to the sky as if speaking to the first twinkling star of the eve. In frustration he cried aloud. "For the sake of Elbereth! Why must my pathway always be revealed to me and then made so difficult to travel?"
~*~*~*~
Haldir saw the years pass in his dream. He remembered looking forward to his visits to Rivendell and Jadriel’s visits to Lothlórien. Most every spring, he found a way to see her if only for a few days. Years passed with both anticipating these all too brief encounters. By this time, nearly two centuries had passed. Haldir remembered that day she finally arrived home with her father. The travel party appeared to be covered with a dark shadow of sadness. Orodreth, Haldir’s long time friend, now appeared so withered. To the surprise of all he decided to linger no more and leave for the Undying Lands instead of fading. Haldir stood holding Jadriel for hours on the day her father left. After his departure, Jadriel withdrew from all, desiring above all to be alone. For days her demeanor remained unchanged.
Finally she accepted his offer for company. Haldir sat for hours in her talan holding her, stroking her hair, and trying what he could to reassure her. At last she spoke. "Amin mela ile, Haldir o’ Lórien. I must rest now. May I say good night?" she asked, looking him in the eye. To Haldir this was the first indication she had given that she might be returning from the bog in which she had been mired for so long. A spark of hope rose within his heart. He gently kissed her goodnight, tucked her in bed and took his leave.
The next morning Haldir hurried to check on Jadriel. She was not to be found. He scanned the talan for some note or clue to her whereabouts, but found none. He walked into her room. On the surface nothing seemed amiss. The bed was made. Her clothes were hung neatly as usual. Suddenly he realized her weapons were gone. Perhaps she was feeling better. As he turned to leave, Haldir notice a sparkle from the dressing table. What is this? No, it cannot be. She has not taken it off since the day she received it. What does this mean?
"She is gone, my Captain." Haldir turn to see Galadriel staring solemnly in his direction.
"What do you mean she is gone, My Lady?"
"She has left Lórien and means not to return."
"When….Where…. Why…" The words trailed off in the flood of confusion. Haldir’s fist clenched the Jewel of the Golden Star in decided resolution. "I will go after her. I will find her."
"She is already beyond the Golden Wood. She does not desire to be found."
"No…Melamin … No…"
~*~*~*~
Lirimaer – Lovely one
Melamin – literally "My love", but generally used in the story as Haldir’s long time nickname for Jadriel
Atar – Father
Atara – Mother
Ilúvatar – God
Valar – Lessor gods
Ile naa vanima, Nana! – You are beautiful, Mama!
Doila ile, Melamin. Amin mela ile, my dearest. – Thank you, Melamin. I love you, my dearest.
Quel amrun, a’mealamin. Good morning, my beloved
Amin mela ile, Melamin. – I love you, Melamin
A’mealamin – My beloved~*~*~*~
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