Title & Chapter Number: Dream Warrior 22-26/33
Author(s): - Author's Index
Website: Heather Lynn's Page
Fandom: Tolkien
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: The characters, settings, places, and languages used in this work are the property of J R R Tolkien, the Tolkien Estate and Tolkien Enterprises. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Warnings: SEX!!!
Betas: None
Cast: Haldir/Lirimaer (OC)
Timeline: FotR AU
Spoilers: FotR Perhaps
Summary: This story begins in the year 3018 (S.R. 1418), the same time that Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin have begun their journey. They are now with Aragorn, having left Amon Sûl (Weathertop) after battling the Ringwraiths. Arwen Evenstar has Frodo and is taking him to Rivendell. Lirimaer is an elf from Rivendell who journeys to Lothlórien to speak to Galadriel about the haunting nightmare she repeatedly has. Haldir comes across her along the way and he leads her to Lórien.
Notes: While writing this, I followed the Tolkien's books and the two movies and made up a few things as well. My timeline does not coincide with the books, only to try to keep things short! I hope the translations are correct, if not please email me so I can make any necessary repairs. I hope to add drawings soon, having just moved I will need some time. I hope you enjoy my first fan fic I've ever written, please let me know what you think! This fan fic was also part of the www.haldir-lives.org Fan Fic Challenge.
Chapter 22 - The Fellowship Arrives
Haldir saw them approaching from the direction of Dimrill Dale. There were eight of them, two men, an elf, four halflings and… a dwarf! They were running towards the wood, slowing down once in the safety of the trees. He signaled to the elves to surround them. He listened to the dwarf, calling the Lady of Light a Elf-witch! He was in the middle of bragging about his sight and hearing when Haldir had the elves surround them. Haldir stepped out of the trees. "The Dwarf breathes so loud we could have shot him in the dark." The dwarf grumbled at him.
The man spoke up: "Haldir o Lórien. Henion, aníron, boe ammen i dulu lîn. Boe ammen veriad lîn.
"Aragorn, these woods are perilous. We should go back," said Gimli.
"You have entered the realm of the Lady of the Wood," Haldir said, glaring at the dwarf. "You cannot go back. You will follow me."
Haldir led them up the path. He took them to a talan, where he needed to question them before he would take them to Caras Galadhon. He wasn't too happy about a Dwarf stepping foot in Lórien. He had an uneasy feeling about him, or was it one of the others? The Halflings stood behind the men, looking weary and sad. He walked up to the elf. "Mae govannen, Legolas Thranduillion."
"Govannas vîn gwenne le, Haldir o Lórien," said Legolas.
"A Aragorn in Dúnedain, istannen le ammen," said Haldir.
"So much for the legendary courtesy of the Elves! Speak words we can all understand!" spat Gimli.
"We have not had dealings with the Dwarves since the Dark Days," sneered Haldir.
"And you know what this Dwarf has to say to that? Ishkhaqwi ai durugnul!" Haldir stiffened, glaring at the Dwarf.
"That was not very courteous," snapped Aragorn at Gimli.
Haldir turned away from Gimli, clearly having a sufficient amount of him. He looked behind Aragorn at the Halflings, who took a step back from Haldir's menacing figure. He felt an evil power surrounding the Halfling with the dirty face and the big blue eyes. "You bring great evil with you!" He turned back to Aragorn. "You can go no further!"
Haldir started to walk away from them with Aragorn following. "We need your protection. The road is very dangerous," Aragorn said. "Please understand we need your support."
Haldir knew he had to lead them to Caras Galadhon. Celeborn and Galadriel awaited them. It was what they wished. "We will leave for Caras Galadhon at first light. You will rest here for the night."
Haldir talked with one of the guards and had food and water brought. Haldir suddenly turned towards the sound of a birdcall. "Stay here! Do not make a sound." With that all the Lórien Elves left the talan, disappearing into the night. A short time afterward in the distance, the sound of a battle could be heard.
~*~*~*~
Lirimaer was trying to get news from the borders. She had been asking around all day, and now it was late afternoon. She was giving up hope for any news. It had been over a week since Haldir left and she had heard nothing. She couldn't wait to see him again, to hold him in her arms. She found Elladan and Elrohir down at the practice fields. "Have you heard anything from the borders?" she asked, desperate for some news.
"A messenger arrived at midday. They were attacked last night by a band of orcs from Moria," said Elrohir.
Elladan, seeing the concern on Lirimaer's face, added, "Do not worry, there wasn't any casualties. Haldir is fine."
"Anything about the Halfling? Has he arrived yet?" she asked.
Before Elrohir could say anything, Elladan spoke up. "Not yet. But I'm sure Haldir will be back very soon."
Elrohir gave him a look. What is my brother up to now?
"Will you join us for dinner tonight?" asked Elladan.
"I would love to," said Lirimaer. "But before dinner, I think I will go for a swim." She needed to alleviate some of her stress in the hot springs. "I will meet you later." She strained a smile for them and left.
"What are you up to? You know how miserable she is. Why didn't you tell her Haldir was on his way?" asked Elrohir. "And make her go insane waiting for him? Let her be surprised!" laughed Elladan.
Lirimaer walked down the path towards the hot spring. Perhaps the waters would help relax her, get her mind off things for a while. She was in such deep thought that she didn't notice the commotion going on around Celeborn and Galadriel's apartments. Strangers had arrived to Lórien!
~*~*~*~
Haldir led them up the stairs to meet with Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn. All he could think about was seeing his Lirimaer again, to take her in his arms, kiss her… He had to keep his mind on the things at hand. He led them to the same place he had led Lirimaer, Elladan and Elrohir two weeks before. He bowed to the Lord and Lady as they descended the stairs, taking his place to the side of the stairs.
His mind started to go back to the last night he was in Caras Galadhon, when he coupled with Lirimaer. A small smile played on his lips. Then he heard the dreaded news.
"The enemy knows you have entered here. What hope you had in secrecy is now gone," said Lord Celeborn. "Eight there are here, yet nine there were set out from Rivendell. Tell me, where is Gandalf? For I much desire to speak with him," asked Celeborn. "I can no longer see him from afar."
"Gandalf the Grey did not pass the borders of this land. He has fallen into shadow," said Galadriel.
Mithrandir was dead! How could this be? thought Haldir. A great sorrow fell on him, he liked the wizard.
"He was taken by both Shadow and flame," said Legolas, "A Balrog of Morgoth. For we went needlessly into the net of Moria."
"Needless were none of the deeds of Gandalf in life," said Galadriel. "We do not yet know his full purpose." She looked over at Gimli, who was looking sad, sighing loudly. "Do not let the great emptiness of Khazad-Dûm fill your heart Gimli, son of Glóin. For the world has grown full of peril and in all lands love is now mingled with grief."
"What now becomes of this Fellowship? Without Gandalf, hope is lost," said Celeborn.
"The quest stands upon the edge of a knife. Stray but a little and it will fail to the ruin of all. Yet hope remains while the Company is true. Do not let your hearts be troubled. Go now and rest for you are weary with sorrow and much toil. Tonight you will sleep in peace." Galadriel nodded to Haldir. He bowed and led the group down the stairs from which they came. An area at the tree's base had been set up for them to rest.
"You will stay here," said Haldir. "provisions will be provided for you." He bowed to the group and quickly left to seek out Lirimaer. He was about to go back up the stairs to Lirimaer's room when he ran into Elladan and Elrohir.
"Haldir! Welcome back!" said Elladan.
"Elladan, Elrohir, mae govannen. If you will excuse me I must…"
"Find Lirimaer? She is not in her room. She just left us, said something about going for a swim," said Elrohir. A smile came to Haldir's face. "Thank you!" he said, bowing and quickly turning and heading down the path towards the spring.
It was dusk when he arrived at the pool. There was a heavy mist in the air from the steam coming off the water. He looked around and saw her. The sight of her took his breath away. She was standing in the middle of the pool, her wet hair clinging to her fair skin. She cupped her hands, scooping up water and splashed it on her face.
Haldir quickly undressed, trying not to make a sound. He stole his way to the pool's edge and slipped in. He swam under the water, coming up behind her. Now he stood within inches of her, aching to reach out and pull her to him.
The water helped relieve some of the tension in Lirimaer. It was agony not hearing anything from her Haldir. All she could do was think of him. A light breeze blew and she imagined she could smell his scent on the air. She looked down at the water and saw the reflection of the one she loved standing behind her smiling. She was about to turn around when strong arms encircled her waist. A gentle kiss fell on her shoulder.
She thought her heart would burst with joy. She turned and took him into her arms, never wanting to let him go. She sought out his mouth, kissing him, searching out his tongue. She ran her fingers through his wet, golden hair.
Her kiss was like a cool drink of water to parched lips. He squeezed her tighter, enjoying the feel of her skin pressing against his. He lifted her into his arms, pulling her legs around him. He kissed her neck, made his way up to an earlobe, tracing his tongue up the edge of her ear, biting the tip. Her body shuddered. He lifted her higher in his arms and found a nipple, taking it into his mouth, teasing it with his tongue. She wrapped her arms around his head, hugging him to her, moaning in response.
Haldir couldn't control himself anymore, he needed her now. He entered her, hard and fast, making her cry out. She responded by moving her hips in time with him. He could feel her need for him was as great as his for her. He thrust into her repeatedly, she meeting his moves. She clawed at his back, placing hard kisses and bites on his shoulder. Their breathing became ragged, their need building.
Lirimaer cried out, her release sending shockwaves through her body. Haldir thrust into her a few more times, finding his release. Lirimaer collapsed against his chest, feeling his heart pound within. She gave a playful bite on his earlobe, making him jump. He smiled, giving her a squeeze. Haldir held Lirimaer tight, feeling her breathing return to normal. It was at this moment that Haldir realized he never wanted to nor could he be apart from his love again. He would have to speak to Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn.
~*~*~*~
Henion, aníron, boe ammen i dulu lîn. Boe ammen veriad lîn - We desire your help. We need your protection
Mae govannen, Legolas Thranduillion - Welcome Legolas, son of Thranduil
Govannas vîn gwenne le, Haldir o Lórien - Our Fellowship stands in your debt, Haldir of Lórien
A Aragorn in Dúnedain, istannen le ammen - Aragorn of the Dúnedain, you are known to us
Ishkhaqwi ai durugnul - Plague/curse upon your necks~*~*~*~
Chapter 23 - Friends Old and New
Haldir and Lirimaer walked back to the city holding hands. Lirimaer could hear the sound of singing. She stopped dead in her tracks. It was a lament for Gandalf the Grey! Tears came to her eyes. "Gandalf is dead?" she asked.
"He fell to a balrog in Moria. He was part of the Fellowship with the Halfling. He was a good friend and will be missed," Haldir said, with great sadness in his voice. He turned and gave Lirimaer a comforting hug.
They arrived at the base of the tree where their rooms were. Lirimaer saw a encampment set up around the mallorn's roots. There were strangers here, the Fellowship. She saw four Hobbits, a Dwarf, a man and… "Estel!" she cried, running into Aragorn's outstretched arms. "I can't believe it is you! You are part of this Fellowship?"
Aragorn nodded. "Master Elrond told me you would be here. It has been a long time since I've seen you. And you are still as beautiful as Lúthien," he said, smiling at her. 2 "Another friend of yours is also here." He turned and pointed towards the stairs, where Elladan and Elrohir were talking to a familiar blonde haired elf. "Legolas, look who is here!" "Mae govannen, Lirimaer!" said Legolas, taking Lirimaer's hands. "I have just heard wonderful news from Elladan and Elrohir. You and Haldir have wedded!" He smiled at Haldir, clapping him on the shoulder. "It is about time you have settled down!"
"You are one to speak!" grinned Haldir. "When are you going to find a Princess?"
"Perhaps when I reach your age!" remarked Legolas, laughing, prodding Haldir with his elbow.
Haldir felt the evil presence again and turned towards the Hobbit called Frodo. He was leaning against the tree looking very tired and full of sorrow. This is the one carrying Isildur's Bane. Haldir felt sorry for him, someone so small to have to carry something so powerful and evil. He could see it was taking its toll on him.
"Lirimaer, let me introduce you to everyone," said Legolas. He led her to the Dwarf. "This is Gimli, son of Glóin." "It is an honor to meet you, my lady," Gimli said, bowing. Haldir scowled.
Lirimaer nodded back, nudging Haldir and smiling at Gimli. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Master Gimli."
Legolas led them to the Hobbits. "This is Meriadoc Brandybuck, Peregrin Took, Samwise Gamgee and Frodo Baggins. This, gentlemen, is Lirimaer, wife of Haldir." The Hobbits all bowed politely.
"It is wonderful to meet you all, young Hobbits," Lirimaer said. She too felt the presence around Frodo. She felt great compassion for this quiet Halfling. She could feel there was a tremendous weight on his shoulders. She gave him a warm smile.
"And this," said Legolas, "is Boromir, son of Denethor, Steward of Gondor."
Boromir bowed. "My lady."
There was something about this man that disturbed Lirimaer, but she could not put her finger on it. She nodded to him. "Welcome Boromir."
"So are we still on for dinner tonight, Lirimaer?" smiled Elladan.
Haldir put an arm around her. "I think we will be staying in tonight. We could both use some rest," he said, a devilish grin on his face. He turned towards the Fellowship. "We bid you all a good night. Rest easy. These borders are well guarded." He led Lirimaer towards the stairs. "I will meet you in a short while. I have something I need to do and then I will stop by the kitchens and get us some dinner." He took her into his arms and kissed her, then whispered, "How does dinner in bed sound?" He smiled at her, leaving her at the foot of the stairs.
Legolas walked over to her. "I never thought that pretentious elf would find anyone that would put up with him! What did you do to him? You have made him so happy!" he laughed. "It is truly wonderful to see you again. Perhaps we can spend some time together tomorrow, for only one day will we be staying in Lothlórien." Melancholy came to Legolas's face, thinking of the loss of Gandalf and the perils ahead.
"I would love that," she said, touching his face. "Get some rest tonight, Legolas." She leaned forward and kissed him on the forehead, then climbed the stairs.
~*~*~*~
Haldir arrived a short time later with a tray of food to find Lirimaer undressed and in bed. The devilish grin returned to his face. He walked over to the bed, setting the tray down in front of her, then sat down beside her. "Close your eyes. I have something for you." She closed her eyes. She felt something being placed around her neck. "You can open your eyes now."
She looked down. It was beautiful! There, hanging on a gold chain, was a large teardrop shaped green gem in a gold engraved setting. She had seen this stone before. "Haldir! Your dagger! Why did you do this?"
"Because I love you! This emerald looks much better around your pretty neck than in my knife. It belongs with my beautiful wife, not a weapon."
"I will treasure it forever," she said, kissing him. She reached out, pulling him to her. She ran her hands up his back, embracing him tight to her. "I love you so much." She ran her hands under his tunic, wanting to feel his bare skin against hers.
Haldir stopped her. "Wait! I want you to eat first! You will need your strength for tonight!" he taunted.
~*~*~*~
Estel - Name given to Aragorn by Elrond to conceal his lineage to Isildur from Sauron. On his twentieth birthday he learned his true name and ancestry. Estel means "Hope'.
Lúthien - the most beautiful Elf-maiden to walk in Middle-earth. She married a man, Beren, who died in her arms, and she gave up her immortality to be with him. Great-grandmother to Elrond.~*~*~*~
Chapter 24 - The Fellowship Departs
Haldir awoke with Lirimaer in his arms. He smiled. He put his face into her hair, inhaling the sweet scent. How he had missed her, all those lonely nights keeping watch out at the borders. He listened to her breathing, slow and steady. He looked out towards the balcony. The sun was starting to rise. It looked like it was going to be a beautiful day.
Lirimaer stirred in his arms. He kissed her on the back of her neck.
"Good morning," she said, squeezing his arms tight around her. She loved waking up in his strong arms.
"How about going out onto the balcony? We can watch the sun rise over the city." He sat up, drawing her to him, wrapping the sheets around them. He carried her out on the balcony, sitting down on a lounger with her in his lap. They sat there silent, holding each other, watching the city come to life. They closed their eyes, feeling the first rays of morning sunshine warm their skin.
"Well, good morning," said Vuranor. "I'm sorry to disturb you. It is good to see you again Haldir. Perhaps Lirimaer will stop brooding now that you have returned!" he smirked.
It is good to see you as well, Vuranor. Thank you for taking care of Lirimaer in my absence."
"Yes, Vuranor and Alfirin have watched over me like hawks. Where is Alfirin? The way you two have been together, one would think you two were permanently attached at the hands!" Lirimaer laughed.
Vuranor smiled, his eyes sparkling. "Yes, and I suppose I have you to thank! Alfirin is every special to me. I am going to ask her to come back to Rivendell with me."
"Well, I hope you don't plan to leave too soon. I will miss my friends greatly," said Lirimaer.
"I don't advise anyone to leave the protection of Lórien at this time," warned Haldir. "Orc troops have been heavily bombarding our borders. Travel now would be unwise."
"I will take your advice, Haldir. I'm not in a hurry to leave this beautiful city, or my friends. I will leave you two alone to enjoy the morning. I must find Alfirin." Vuranor turned and left.
Lirimaer snuggled up under Haldir's chin. The sun was warming, making her sleepy. Haldir slid down on the lounger, getting more comfortable. Before long they both fell asleep in each other's arms, basking in the sunshine.
It was late in the morning when they woke up. "We should probably get dressed. I promised Legolas that we would spend some time with him today," said Lirimaer, though she didn't want to end the moment.
"Do you have anything planned?" asked Haldir. Lirimaer shook her head. "Well, then. Let's go see what we can do today." He picked her up carrying her back into the room, setting her down on her feet. He gave her a kiss before letting her go. They washed and dressed, ate some bread and fruit left over from the night before, and went down the stairs.
They were just about to the bottom when they ran into Legolas coming up. "Well, it is about time! The day is wasting!" he said, joking. "How about going to the practice fields? What do you say to a little bow competition, you two? It has been a long time!"
"All right, Legolas. Let me get our bows! I'll get the swords as well." She quickly ran back up the stairs, returning shortly with their bows and swords. They made their way to the bottom of the stairs.
"Where are you off to?" asked Merry.
"We are off for a shooting competition," said Legolas.
"Can we come?" asked Pippin. Sam and Frodo took some interest in the idea as well, even Gimli.
Everyone looked at Haldir. At first he looked irritated, the arrogant elf returning. Then he looked at Lirimaer, who was smiling at him, her eyes sparkling. His heart melted. "Why not," he said. The Hobbits grabbed their swords and Gimli his ax. They followed Haldir down the path. Aragorn and Boromir decided to join them as well.
Lirimaer notched an arrow and let it fly. It landed a little off to the left of the center of the target. It had been a while since she practiced. Haldir let his fly, hitting dead center. Legolas let his go, hitting within a fraction of an inch of Haldir's. The Hobbits all applauded. "Notch another arrow Lirimaer," said Haldir. He came up behind her, guiding her arms. He rested his chin on her shoulder, looking down the shaft of her arrow.
She could feel his warm breath on her neck, distracting her. He put his hand over hers, pulling the arrow back further. His thumb caressed her hand. The familiar fluttering started inside her stomach. She turned her head to look at him. He had a teasing smile on his face. "Pay attention," he whispered, blowing in her ear. Lirimaer started to laugh. "You must be ready even with distraction all around you. Concentrate."
Her thoughts went to what Galadriel had said to her. The time to protect him is coming soon. She looked down the shaft of the arrow, pulling it back, and released. It landed in between Legolas's and Haldir's arrows. Haldir's strong arms wrapped around her. "That was outstanding," he said, kissing her on the neck.
They practiced for a while with the bows, then moved on to swords. Haldir picked up his sword and looked over at Frodo, smiling, feeling sorry for him. "I can show you some maneuvers if you like."
Frodo smiled. He had been afraid of this elf, after the way he greeted them out at the borders. Frodo removed his sword from its scabbard. Haldir noticed that it was an Elvish long knife. It was decorated with Elvish runes and designs. "May I see your sword?" asked Haldir. Frodo handed it to him. It was light and extremely sharp.
"It is called Sting. My uncle Bilbo gave it to me. He found it in a troll's cave while journeying to the Lonely Mountain. The blade glows blue when there are orcs around," said Frodo.
"It is an exceptional piece, Frodo. It will serve you well. Shall we begin?" Haldir asked. Froto nodded.
Lirimaer looked over at Haldir and Frodo. She watched as Haldir showed him blocks and jabs, bringing the Hobbit out of his shell. The two were laughing and having a great time. Lirimaer smiled.
They stayed at the practice field for several hours. Lirimaer whispered in Haldir's ear, bringing a smile to his face. He nodded. "Everyone, Lirimaer and I would like you all to join us for dinner tonight. But before that, Lirimaer would like to share with you a place special to us." They led them down a path, past the metal smiths' field, to the tranquil pond with the water lilies and waterfall. Everyone sat down and took in the beauty around them in silence.
~*~*~*~
The next morning, Haldir and Lirimaer were up at dawn to say farewell to their friends. They walked down with the Fellowship to the Celebrant, where boats were being loaded with supplies to take them down the Anduin to Rauros. The Fellowship stood in a row, receiving gifts of Elvish cloaks and mallorn leaf brooches. Haldir placed a cloak around Legolas, pinning on a brooch.
"Never before have we clad strangers in the garb of our own people," said Celeborn. "May these cloaks help shield you from unfriendly eyes." Galadriel presented each with a special gift that would serve them in their travels.
After stowing their supplies and saying their goodbyes, the Fellowship boarded the three Elven boats and began their journey down the river. Haldir stood on the roots of a mallorn growing on the riverbank, watching their departure. Then he looked over towards the bridge where Lirimaer stood. Her eyes were cheerless, watching her friends, old and new, make their way down the Celebrant, wondering if she would ever see them again.
~*~*~*~
Chapter 25 - The White Wizard
A few days had passed since the Fellowship had departed when Haldir was once again called to see the Lord and Lady.
Lirimaer's heart grew heavy. She knew the time was here to seek out help from Elladan, Elrohir and Vuranor. She kissed Haldir and watched him leave. Then she quickly left her room and knocked on Vuranor's door. Vuranor opened the door and she stepped inside. "Please, you must help me," she pleaded.
They sat down and she told him everything Galadriel had said to her at her mirror. "And how am I supposed to help you?" he asked.
"You, Elladan and Elrohir must train me to fight. You must also help me to get to wherever he is going so I can be there to protect him."
~*~*~*~
Haldir had been wanting to meet with Galadriel and Celeborn. He no longer felt he could be the guardians' Captain, leaving Lirimaer alone and sad and himself in misery. He found them waiting for him on the same bench he sat with Galadriel a couple of weeks before, talking about Lirimaer. He bowed in greeting.
"I know what is on your mind, Haldir, but we need you do one more task for us as Captain of the Guardians. The fate of Men depends on it," said Galadriel.
"Master Elrond has sent out troops. They should be arriving in Lórien soon," said Celeborn. "We need you to lead the troops from Rivendell and troops from Lórien. Saruman the White is massing an army of Uruk-hai to destroy Mankind. There is war in Rohan, King Théoden needs help from the Elves."
"You do this for us and when you come back we will reassign you to something more favorable. We will make Orophin the Captain of the Guardians," Galadriel said. She placed a hand to Haldir's cheek. "I see how it pains you to be away from Lirimaer. Just one more time." She smiled at him.
They heard a cry ring out from the sky overhead. They looked up. A great eagle was circling, with an old man with long white hair in his back. "We must leave you now," said Celeborn, "for a long awaited friend has arrived." They turned and left, heading back to their apartments. Haldir watched the great bird continue its downward spiral, then landing on one of the Lord and Lady's telain. It was Gwaihir the Windlord. But who was the old man?
~*~*~*~
Lirimaer didn't cry when Haldir told her the news. She knew this was coming. "I will wait patiently for you, melamin," she said, kissing him. "Did they say what you would be doing upon your return?"
"Only that Orophin will become Captain of the Guardians, nothing on my new position. I may be gone for a long time, Lirimaer. Are you sure you will be all right?" She nodded, smiling at him. He couldn't believe how well she was taking the news.
"I must find Elladan and Elrohir," said Lirimaer. "I promised them that I would spend some time with them today." "I'll come with you," Haldir said.
"No! I mean you probably have things to do of your own. I am always with you." She smiled at him, kissing him on the cheek. "I will come find you later, a'maelamin." She turned and was out the door.
Haldir stood there astonished. What was going on? Why was she acting so strangely? He decided to follow her.
~*~*~*~
Lirimaer quickly went to the stairs and was about to descend when she saw a brilliant light coming from the bridge joining the two trees together. There, on the other side, stood a man, dressed in white, with long white hair. She could not see his face, but he was standing before one of the Great Eagles. She moved closer. The eagle saw her move, looking in her direction. The old man turned, but she still couldn't make out his face because of the brilliant light that radiated from him. She saw that he carried a staff. Saruman! She started to back up in fear. How could this be?
"Why are you frightened, Lirimaer? Come here and greet an old friend."
How did he know her? Even though she was afraid, she found herself walking towards him. He picked up an old tattered gray cloak and wrapped it about him, the brilliance of the light diminishing. He turned and faced her once more.
"Gandalf! You live!" She ran to the wizard and embraced him, taking hold of his hand. She looked at him. His beard and hair were bright white; he had a gentle smile upon his face.
"Gandalf? Yes! That is what they used to call me. Gandalf the Gray. But now I am Gandalf the White. Meet a very dear friend of mine, Gwaihir the Windlord. He has saved my life once again," he said, smiling at the Eagle King.
Lirimaer nodded and admired Gwaihir. She had seen the great eagles flying overhead but never up close. He was truly a magnificent creature. The bird's sharp site caught movement from where Lirimaer had come from. It was Haldir.
"Ah, Haldir! So very good to see you again!" said Gandalf.
"Mithrandir! You live!" Haldir exclaimed. "But you fell in Moria."
"Ay, I did," said Gandalf. "Perhaps another time I can tell you about it, but now I must go to Fangorn Forest to meet with some old friends. War is brewing; my help is needed in Rohan. I will see you again soon. Gwaihir, once again I must ask for your help. To Fangorn Forest!" The old wizard climbed upon the eagle's back. The eagle let out an ear-piercing scream and took off, sailing high into the sky.
Lirimaer turned to Haldir. "Where are you off to?" She wrapped her arms around him, Haldir stiffened.
"No place important. I was thinking of going to the hot springs, unwind for a while. I will see you later." He pulled away from her and made his way down the stairs.
What was that about? wondered Lirimaer. She went down the stairs and down the path towards the practice field. Elladan and Elrohir were there, just as Vuranor promised. Elrohir handed her a sword. "Are you ready to become a warrior?" he teased.
"Do I have a choice?" said Lirimaer, seriously.
"Let's begin!" said Elladan.
What is she up to? pondered Haldir, hidden behind a tree.
~*~*~*~
Chapter 26 - Training
Over the next two days, Lirimaer practiced with Elladan, Elrohir and Vuranor. She also had to come up with excuses for Haldir. She hated lying to him but she had no choice. He must not find out what she was doing. She knew that he would not allow her to go with him into battle.
Haldir followed her every day. Why is she lying to me! He didn't mind the fact that she was learning how to use a sword. The way the world was, it was good to know how to defend yourself. But why didn't she ask for my help? I told her never to lie to me again!
Lirimaer noticed a transformation in Haldir. He seemed irritable, distant. She figured he was uneasy about having to go into battle. She tried to cheer him up but nothing seemed to work.
The Rivendell elves arrived three days after Gandalf's departure. They would train for two more days and then they would make their journey to Rohan. Lirimaer needed armor!
"You need to dress as a male elf for this," Vuranor said, handing her some more of his clothes. "The less who know you are a female the better off we'll be." Vuranor took her to the metal smith field while Haldir was busy at the training field. The metal smith eyed Lirimaer, never seeing the elf before but thought that he looked familiar. "This is Astalder," said Vuranor. He remembered the name she had given Haldir when she first met him. "He's my brother from Rivendell."
The smith tried different pieces of armor on her. "Come back tomorrow for another fitting. It will be ready."
"Now it is my turn," Vuranor said, the smith trying armor on him.
"You are going too?" Lirimaer asked.
"Well, someone has to keep their eye on my brother!" he said.
The next day they went for a final fitting. Vuranor told the smith to have their armor sent to his quarters. They would be leaving the next morning.
Lirimaer went back to her room to find Haldir waiting for her. He was in a foul mood. "Where have you been?" he demanded. "And I want the truth! I know what you have been up to the past few days."
"What do you mean?" she asked. "I told you what I was doing."
"Stop lying to me!" he shouted. "I told you never to lie to me again! I have seen you down at the practice fields. Why didn't you come to me if you wanted to learn how to use a sword? Instead you sneak around, deceiving me."
He knew! "Haldir, I'm sorry. I thought you would be mad at me if you knew what I was doing. I never meant to hurt you." She went to him, reached out and touched his arm. He shrugged it away.
"So, where were you today? You did not practice today. I was there since this morning."
"I went for a walk with Vuranor." It was all she could come up with.
Haldir opened the door and stormed into Vuranor's room. "What were you and Lirimaer doing today?" he demanded.
"What are you talking about, Haldir?" he asked.
"She said she was with you today. Is this true?"
Vuranor looked over Haldir's shoulder at Lirimaer's pleading face. "Yes."
Haldir looked at Vuranor for a moment, then turned and strode out the door.
"Where are you going?" Lirimaer asked, watching Haldir head for the stairs. He went down the stairs without answering. Lirimaer went back to her room and shut the door.
~*~*~*~
It was late in the night before Haldir came back. He had to meet with Galadriel and Celeborn a final time to find out his final orders. They were to go to Helm's Deep. They would leave at first light. He was still in a foul mood. He opened the door quietly. Lirimaer was lying on the bed, with her back to him. He took off his boots and sat down on the bed beside her.
Lirimaer rolled over and wrapped her arms about his waist. "I'm so sorry," she said, her body shaking with her sobs. She had been lying there, crying, waiting for him to come home. He saw her tears and pulled her up into his arms, kissing her. She put her arms around his neck, opening her mouth to him, their tongues entwined.
"I am sorry as well. Please don't cry anymore. It breaks my heart to see you cry. I just want to make love to you and hold you in my arms tonight. This is the memory I want to take into battle with me," he said, kissing her again, and began untying the front of her dress.
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