THIRTY FOUR “I have learned a great deal watching all of you. One day I will use it against you,” Orophin chuckled when Haldir and Siddhir returned to them. “I look forward to that, *pen-neth,”* [young one] Tinion laughed. All turned when Fereveldir came upon them. The tall Elf smiled. “Well, I am quite pleased to see that you have saved me much walking, now that I have found all of you together.” “You are looking for us?” Rumil asked. Fereveldir nodded. He looked from Lillael to Haldir for an instant, and something in Haldir’s eyes told him to just continue with his reason for coming. “Um, yes. This evening there will be a celebration by orders of Lord Celeborn. For what, I do not know.” Rumil smiled. “I love celebrations.” “As do we all,” Tinion chuckled. Orophin stood, pulling Lillael up with him. “Fereveldir, this is Lillael. Lillael, Fereveldir- another brother to me.” Lillael and Fereveldir nodded pleasantly to one another. “Well, if there is going to be a celebration, we had better be going. I have to see Lillael home,” Orophin remarked. “Will you be going to our talan after?” Rumil asked. Orophin nodded. Rumil stood. “Then I will walk with you.” Orophin smiled. “Very well, come.” They said their farewells and left. Four pairs of eyes followed them. When they were out of earshot, Tinion turned to Haldir. “Is Orophin *really* involved with her?” Haldir sighed. “It appears so. And for some time, it seems.” “That is… interesting,” Fereveldir remarked. Siddhir smiled. “All right, would someone care to enlighten me as to why you are all so taken back by their relationship? Or shall I read your minds? Haldir, do you disapprove of her?” Haldir turned to look at him. “It is not that…” “Then what *is* it, exactly?” “I have... been with her. It was long ago, but it’s true- and it appears she has failed to tell Orophin about it,” Haldir answered. “Is that a bad thing?” Siddhir asked. Haldir looked at Tinion and Fereveldir, and then found Siddhir’s eyes again. “Not in itself…but, I would not want my brother to be in the dark. He should know *all* there is to know about her. If he still chooses to be with her after that, then it will be his choice.” Siddhir looked at him. “There is more. What is it?” “Haldir is not the *only* one who has been with her,” Tinion volunteered. Siddhir raised his eyebrows. “*You* too?” Tinion laughed. “Nay, not me. I have *always* preferred males, but I happen to know she *has* been with most of the patrol.” Siddhir’s eyes widened. “Including me,” Fereveldir confessed. Neither Haldir nor Tinion seemed surprised. Siddhir’s mouth dropped open, and he turned back to Haldir. “I see your concern.” Haldir sighed. “I loathe interfering in anyone’s personal business, because I would not like anyone interfering in mine, but I cannot let Orophin be mislead.” “What are you going to do?” Tinion asked. “I will go to see her when I am able. She will tell Orophin the truth- *all* of it, or I will,” Haldir answered simply. Tinion whistled as he rose and stood next to Fereveldir. “I would not want to be in your boots, *mellon.”* [friend] “Nor would I,” Fereveldir agreed. “I have not spent most of my life looking after my brothers to knowingly let either of them be put in harm’s way. I cannot in good conscience just hold on to this information and have Orophin find out about this in some offbeat way- like by the camp cooking fires. One day he *will* be of the Galadhrim, and it is not so farfetched that it could happen in just that way. I simply cannot leave him open to suffer like that,” Haldir murmured. “Well, I really must be going. I still have many yet to inform of this eve’s festivities. May the Valar’s grace be with you Haldir,” Fereveldir remarked. Tinion nodded. “I shall walk with you part way, Fereveldir. I have watch in an hour anyway.” They left together. Siddhir placed a caring arm across Haldir’s broad shoulders and pulled him close as they lounged underneath the Mallorn that held their talan and sighed. “At least I *can* tell you that you need not worry about Rumil. I am glad we had the opportunity to explain things to him, but I am *certain* he was not speaking of himself earlier.” “I no longer think so either. In fact, I have a pretty good idea who it may be. I will look into that as well- although again, I loathe to do so. But, if he is being treated unfairly, I can no more lend a blind eye to that than I could to Orophin’s situation,” Haldir replied. “I understand.” Haldir turned to him. “Tell me, were you able to speak with Lady Galadriel about our binding whilst I was away?” Siddhir’s heart began to thump wildly in his chest, and he consciously willed himself to relax. “I have, but it is not convenient now. She will let me know when. There is no hurry anyway, *melamin.* [my love] I am *already* yours in every way that matters.” “I know, but you still *want* to bind with me, don’t you?” “Of *course* I do.” Haldir smiled. “I am relieved. I had this strange feeling for a moment that you may have changed your mind.” “Never, *Cano nya,* *Aratoamin.* [my commander, my champion] Come; let us go inside now and *truly* relax,” Siddhir cooed, rising and holding out his hand. ******************************* Not long before dusk, the common began to fill rapidly as the elves of Lorien gathered there. The mood was light and cheerful. All were excited about the celebration, although they knew not yet what the occasion was. Many were engaged in pleasant conversation as they entered and others immediately became engrossed in cheerful banter upon seeing those they knew already seated inside. Many tables were laden with a marvellous spread of fruits, breads, vegetables and meats, along with many tall flasks of wine that were already flowing freely. Haldir and Siddhir arrived and joined Orophin, Lillael, Rumil and his close friend, Legandir. Seated at the long table as well were Fereveldir, Tinion, Orolonn and his wife Aranel. Haldir smiled. Everyone there was very much like family to him. It was not long before Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel arrived, followed by a small group of guards carrying packages, who curiously strolled off into the woods once the Lord and Lady entered the common. They smiled broadly and nodded pleasantly to their people as they quietly seated themselves at the high table nearest the entrance gates. Galadriel gazed over the mass of Elves, dressed in their best for the occasion, while Celeborn poured two chalices of wine from one of three flasks on their table. “Orophin, Rumil, look at you both! I simply cannot get over how very fair you turned out to be,” Aranel exclaimed. “My, how the years have passed. It feels as if it were only yesterday that you were but just elflings.” Orophin and Rumil smiled brightly at her, enjoying the compliment and the attention. Legandir chuckled and elbowed Rumil in the ribs. “I cannot thank you and Orolonn enough for your help with them over the years,” Haldir stated. He nodded around the table. “Siddhir, Fereveldir, and you as well, Tinion. You have *all* had a hand in their rearing, and I am most grateful for everything you have done.” Aranel smiled. “It was nothing but a pleasure.” Celeborn stood, tapping his goblet loudly with a fork. All became quiet. “It is time for you to know why you are all here,” he called out. “Tonight we will induct and give honor to eight new soldiers of the Galadhrim.” Applause rang out amongst the throng. “When I call your names, please come forward,” Celeborn continued, picking up a scroll from the table. “Meriand…Celondir…Belurion…Balglin…” More applause from the onlookers as Celeborn continued; “Orophin…Legandir…Rumil…Elvanir.” Haldir beamed with pride as his brothers and Legandir rose and left the table. When all eight inductees stood before Celeborn and Galadriel, many stood as they continued their applause. Haldir and Siddhir were amongst them, smiling at each other as proud as parents. Tinion’s loud whistle drew laughter from them all, and Fereveldir gave Haldir a congratulatory pat on the shoulder from behind. They seated themselves again as each new sentinel took their oaths before their Lord and Lady, and were informed that each of them had been presented with new weapons that they would find in their respective talans, making clear the curious departure of the guards with the packages. Celeborn raised his goblet and wished them well, and announced the start of festivities. Several elves rose and began to dance as the musicians started to play lively, upbeat woodland melodies. Orophin, Rumil and Legandir hurried back to the table, wide smiles upon their faces. Haldir pulled his brothers into a tight embrace, and grabbed Siddhir as well. Afterwards, Rumil was the first to make himself a plate, while Orophin hugged Lillael, and poured them both some wine. “I am ravenous,” Rumil commented, before taking a large bite from an equally large pheasant leg. “When are you *not?”* Orophin chuckled. Tinion made an off colour remark Haldir did not quite hear that had them all in stitches. A laughing Aranel slapped her husband Orolonn hard on the back when he choked on his wine. Haldir just shook his head and smiled. Knowing Tinion, he was sure that the comment was best not repeated. His eyes fell upon Lillael, and his smile faded slightly. He watched as she gazed lovingly at Orophin, and he could tell that she cared for him. She must have felt his stare, because she turned and regarded him with almost pleading eyes. Siddhir rubbed his thigh under the table. “We are supposed to be celebrating, *melamin,”* [my love] Siddhir whispered. “I am celebrating, *A’maelamin.* [my beloved] Can you not tell?” Haldir replied cheerfully, discretely pinching Siddhir on the backside. Siddhir started, and laughed. “You will pay for that, *nin bain.* [my beauty] This is promise you.” Haldir sipped his wine and then leaned in close to whisper in Siddhir’s ear. “I expect to pay dearly.” Aranel and Orolonn rose to dance, while Tinion and Fereveldir excused themselves and strolled deep into the crowd, stopping to talk to those they knew along the way. Rumil turned to Orophin when the musicians struck up the next song. “Oro, we know that song. Come and sing with me?” Rumil implored. Orophin looked at Lillael, who smiled. “Go. I would love to hear you sing.” Orophin kissed her, and left with Rumil. When he was far enough away, Lillael stood and looked at Haldir. “Captain, might I have a word with you?” Haldir nodded. Lillael slowly walked to his end of the large table. Siddhir squeezed Haldir’s thigh, and then rose and strolled down to where Legandir sat watching Orophin and Rumil sing. “I care very deeply for Orophin,” she began. Haldir’s grey eyes fixed on hers like steel. “Then why have you not been *honest* with him?” “I – I did not want to ruin everything. We were just getting to know each other.” Haldir raised an eyebrow. “So *when* would you have told him? Once you were *bound* together perhaps? My brother has feelings for you, Lillael. How much longer do you intend to keep it from him?” Lillael blinked. “You object to us being together?” “I did not *say* that,” Haldir snapped. “But he is my brother, Lillael. I will *not* have him be made a fool.” “I am not trying to do that. I would never do that, Haldir. You must believe me,” Lillael pleaded. Haldir glanced over at Orophin and then back at her. “You will tell him, and you will tell him *soon-* or I will. Is that clear?” Lillael nodded, fighting back her tears. “You are being unduly harsh,” Siddhir’s words suddenly resounded in Haldir’s mind. Haldir met Siddhir’s dark eyes, and then turned his attention back to Lillael, who just sat there, somewhat deflated. He sighed, and rubbed his temples. Perhaps he should not partake in any more wine tonight, he thought. “Lillael, forgive me. It was not my intention to be unkind, nor to hurt your feelings. I do not dislike you. I never have- but I *love* my brother, and I want to see him happy, that is all. I cannot allow him to be mislead. If upon knowing all there is to know, he still chooses to be with you, it will be his *informed* choice- and I would never go against it.” Lillael nodded. “That is fair.” “It is all I ask,” Haldir replied, reaching out and wiping away the tears in the corners of her sapphire eyes with his thumbs. “Now, let me see you smile. This is a celebration, and Orophin’s day. We are *supposed* to be having a grand time. I would not wish him to see either of us upset and have it ruined for him. Agreed?” “Of course,” Lillael replied, regaining her composure. “Why don’t you go over to him? He really does sing beautifully,” Haldir remarked. “Thank you,” she replied, and sauntered away. Haldir noticed Siddhir had left the table and joined in the merry making. He was dancing with Aranel, while Orolonn danced with another female elf. Only Legandir remained at the far end of the table. He rose, walked over and sat beside him. “Are you not fond of singing or dancing, sentinel?” “I am, Captain,” Legandir replied quietly. “Why are you not out there enjoying yourself like everyone else then? Haldir asked, his eyes still locked on Siddhir dancing. “I *am* enjoying myself. I am just not up for a lot of movement this eve,” the slender, dark-haired sentinel answered, shifting uneasily in his seat. “And why is that, sentinel? Are you ill?” “Nay, Captain. I am well enough.” Haldir could somehow sense his anguish and turned to look closely at him. “Look at me, sentinel.” Legandir’s deep blue eyes met his, but only briefly. He was not able to hold Haldir’s piercing gaze. “Are you in pain?” Haldir asked quietly. Legandir bit his lip. “Why would you ask, Captain?” “Because my brother Rumil is a curious sort, and he does not ask questions without a reason.” Legandir’s eyes widened. “Rumil *told* you about me?” “He did not. I thought at first he was speaking about himself, but once I was convinced that it was not *him,* I realized that it must be someone he cared about. *You* are his closest friend, and it is *more* than obvious you are experiencing some discomfort,” Haldir replied matter of factly. Legandir was silent. Haldir sighed, and stood. “You will come with me.” Legandir blinked. “May I inquire as to where, Captain?” “We will be going to the healer’s talan.” Legandir blanched. “Captain, I –I do not wish others to know…” “Then I will tend to you myself,” Haldir interjected. “On your feet, sentinel. Now.” ********************************* As he stood chatting with Fereveldir, Siddhir nodded back to Haldir when he saw him leave with Legandir. “Where are they going?” Fereveldir asked. “I am sure they will return soon,” Siddhir returned. “You know Fereveldir, it makes my heart glad that you are such a good friend to Haldir.” Fereveldir eyed him curiously. “I am your friend too. Well, at least I *thought* I was.” Siddhir chuckled, smiling broadly and clapping him on the shoulder. “Of *course* you are. I did not mean to imply otherwise, but you have known Haldir far longer than I.” “That is true, but I think friendship is measured by more than just time alone,” Fereveldir replied. “You are always so *serious,* *meldir,* [friend] Siddhir responded, contorting his face to emphasize the point. “I know not whom is worse, you or Haldir.” Fereveldir blinked, and then started to laugh. “You are *fooling* with me, aren’t you? I should have known.” Siddhir relaxed his features and his lips spread into a radiant smile. “Yes, you should have. Come; I think you need some more wine.” ************************************** “Step lively, sentinel,” Haldir ordered, knowing Legandir was purposely lagging behind as they neared the healer’s talans. “Captain…” Legandir began. Haldir turned and met him with a glare that would kill if a look could. Legandir closed his mouth and slipped up by his side. They entered the talan and found it empty. No wounded lie in any of the six rooms, nor was the healer or his assistant to be found. Haldir knew they were at the celebration; Legandir breathed a heavy sigh of relief. “We will use the room at the far end,” Haldir stated. “Go in, remove your boots and leggings, and lie face down on the bed. I will join you shortly.” He watched the dejected sentinel timidly amble away, and something pulled at his heartstrings. Although the young elf had proven himself swift and agile with both sword and bow, there was something about him that reminded him of Rumil, and if it were not for Rumil’s overly curious nature, it could well be him instead of his friend in this predicament. He sighed and went to gather the things he would need. When he entered the room shortly after, it was hard not to realize the obvious embarrassment the nervous young elf had to be feeling, for almost every muscle in his body was drawn tight as a bowstring. He put the items he carried on the table beside the bed, and gently placed a hand on the sentinel’s shoulder. “You have nothing to fear from me, *pen-neth;* [young one] this I promise you. I can also promise you that you will be feeling much better when I am done. Now, I need you to relax. Do you think you can do that?” Legandir nodded. Haldir waited a few moments. “I must ask you something before I begin, and you will answer me truthfully, will you not?” “Yes, Captain.” “Were you forced? I need to know,” Haldir replied. Legandir was silent for a moment, but then he whispered; “No, Captain.” “Very well, then. Now there will be no surprises. I will tell you everything I am about to do *before* I do it. Is that acceptable?” “Yes, Captain.” “Good. Now, the first thing I have to do is take a good look at you.” ************************************************************* “Many thanks again, Captain. I owe you a great debt, and I will not soon forget it,” Legandir remarked as they returned to the common. “I would ask only but one thing of you,” Haldir replied. Legandir stopped walking and turned to meet his eyes. “Anything, Captain.” “I do not make it a practice to interfere in the personal lives of my guard, or anyone for that matter, but I would like to offer you some advice to think about- if I may.” “Of course, Captain,” Legandir answered, interested. Haldir looked the young elf straight in the eyes. “I would wish you to take thought on this; if he whom you lain with cares not enough to take your personal well being into consideration, then perhaps it is not very wise to lie with him at all.” Legandir bit his lip. “Yes, Captain.” Haldir smiled. “That is it, sentinel. You are relieved to go and enjoy some merriment now. You are feeling better, right?” Legandir smiled. “Very much so, Captain.” “And you have what I gave you? Although it is not for *now,* you understand,” Haldir continued with a raised eyebrow. Legandir laughed. “Yes, Captain.” “Very well. Off with you, then.” Legandir nodded and strolled over to Rumil, who quickly pulled him away. Haldir smiled and shook his head, turning when someone tapped him on the shoulder. He turned to look upon Siddhir, grinning and holding out a goblet to him. He took it. *“Hannon lle.”* [thank you] *“Lle creoso,”* [you’re welcome] Siddhir replied, with a wink. “Now, I think you could probably use few more those so you can dance with me. I have heard you are *most* delightful.” Haldir laughed. “Is that so? Well, you are right. I would *definitely* need a few more of these to do that. But I must warn you, it might leave *you* being the one to gather wood for the fire.” Siddhir leaned in to whisper in his ear as they strolled back to into the mass of jovial Elves. “The only fire that need be stoked this night is *mine,* *A’maelamin;* [my beloved] and you have *more* than enough wood for that.”