Lady of Battle

Lady of Battle

~*~*~*~*~Moon ¡V shine?
by Cheiron

Rating: NC17

~*~*~*~*~

Legal disclaimer:
Characters, places, events from JRR Tolkien's Lord of the Rings and Silmarillion used without permission, no attempt has been made, nor will be made, to copyright these characters and no profit is being made from this work. All other non-Tolkien characters are of my own invention.

Feedback appreciated :) ... Enjoy!


Brenauth stood next to the large table, her long olive robe draping to the floor, one knee peeking through, revealing her leggings underneath and her soft leather boot which was raised, allowing her to rest her foot atop the seat of the chair. She hummed to herself and rocked, slowly shifting her weight between each foot as she shuffled through the parchments, organizing them, after their meeting had concluded.

Galadriel stood by the window, sipping from her goblet, staring out over the view of her garden. She turn at hearing her Seneschal hum slightly louder and smiled brightly at her friend, taking in the joyfulness that Brenauth had brought with her this day. Galadriel too, did not know what had brought on this sudden change in her friend, but, deciding not the push, she set down the goblet, put this thought aside, and walked toward the large table.

¡§Have you readied this mountainous mess on my table?¡¨ She smiled sweetly and playfully, reaching down and lifting a map to better glance at it. Brenauth stopped humming, chuckled, and shifted to start stacking the papers faster.

¡§These things are never truly organized, my Lady,¡¨ she rushed to gather up all the scrolls as she had many duties to ready for the banquet that night. She happily began to hum again while Galadriel stood in disbelief watching her, a dumbfounded expression written all over her face. Brenauth worked quickly while she tapped her feet to the cheerful melody she was droning. At one point she actually shifted her feet, doing a slight dance to her own music, to which Galadriel began to giggle profusely. Brenauth stop and looked up from the table with a confused smile.

¡§What?¡¨ She continued to hum again but low enough to hear the lady speak.

¡§You!¡¨ Galadriel was teary-eyed as she watched her. She was completely clueless as to what had brought on this sudden change, especially since just yesterday she had seen more into Brenauth¡¦s mind than ever before when the Seneschal had joined the counsel; a deep sadness is what she saw there. A long mourned sorrow that was, no doubt, the cause for Brenauth¡¦s backwardness, but she was baffled as to why there was no trace of it now. Just yesterday, her friend had been weakened enough to allow Galadriel this access, not to mention, had spoken openly and without hesitation about her past, to strangers ¡V something Galadriel was still surprised about, even now.

¡§You are so bright today. In all these years, I have not known you to be like this,¡¨ shaking her head, Galadriel turned to go back and sip from her glass.

¡§Yes, you are right¡K¡¨ Brenauth paused for a moment, then turned to look at Galadriel, ¡§and I am unsure of why, myself.¡¨ She turned back to carry on working and continued,

¡§I can not explain it. All this time, there was something inside me, pulling me under; into myself. It consumed me, confusing me, making me lack self control,¡¨ she stopped again, turned, and stood up straight, to face the Lady Galadriel.

¡§It was fear, my Lady,¡¨ she looked sternly into Galadriel¡¦s eyes, her intense stare reinforcing her words, ¡§but I¡¦ve begun to find myself again¡K to heal those wounds,¡¨ she smiled vibrantly, her silver eyes shimmering brilliantly with the joy inside them. Standing tall and strong she waited for Galadriel to speak.

¡§Yes. Your wounds¡K I think you should know¡K I sensed them lately.¡¨ Galadriel was being cautious.

Brenauth was not surprised and showed no concern to the Lady, turning to work again,

¡§After much reflection, I have allowed myself to be more released lately and I am rather enjoying it,¡¨ her voice was confident and optimistic. But it wasn¡¦t the feelings Brenauth was showing Galadriel today, but the fact that she was openly showing feelings at all; it was unnerving, yet wonderful.

¡¥You have no idea how you shine,¡¨ Galadriel thought to herself.

¡§Yes! You have, and I think it¡¦s brilliant!¡¨ Galadriel laughed with Brenauth who was smiling vibrantly. Galadriel wanted her Seneschal to know that she was happy about this revelation and believed it to be long overdue. She gave her a reassuring smile and began to help her. Once packed, Brenauth headed for the door when she stopped and turned.
¡§One question?¡¨ she asked.

¡§My true name¡K Had you ever spoken of it to anyone?¡¨ Brenauth showed no disdain in asking this question, but only concern. Galadriel thought it an odd question and was taken aback somewhat.

¡§Your true name?¡¨ Her eyes questioned as she watched Brenauth considering this, ¡§Never.¡¨

¡§Oh¡K well, it is of no importance,¡¨ and with that Brenauth turned and left Lady Galadriel¡¦s halls. She comfortably walked down the hall thinking about the whispers the night before. She still was unsure if it was her imagination ¡V a latent result of the dream or if it was real, but, at this point, she decided to let it pass and concentrate on her tasks.

She turned the corner and began to descend the large curved steps, exiting to the forest floor, in the gardens. Many were about, some sitting on the large fountain¡¦s edge in the center, conversing with members of the delegation. They glanced her way as she walked down the stairs, and she returned their friendly looks with a bright smile, enjoying this new attention, when she saw her Lord, Celeborn accompanied by the friendly, golden-headed delegate from Greenwood.

¡§Lady Brenauth, I see your meeting with my Lady has ended. We were hoping to catch you,¡¨ he motioned to the elf behind him who bore his usual bright and hospitable smile- his fair hair was braided in a curious fashion and Brenauth was interested as to what it signified; the back free and flowing, with only the sides twisted to make small, smooth braids, moving back behind his ears and meeting at the center of the back of his head. He wore a regal robe and bore a large ring of enter-twining silver and gold on the middle finger, of his right hand ¡V quite unusual.

¡¥He must be of the court,¡¦ she thought as they walked closer. He had unusual grace, even for an elf, as he climbed toward her, and his warm aura mixed with his friendly countenance made Brenauth feel that this was an elf that was given things freely, as he had a humble authority about him that was intoxicating, yet demanding, and that in combination with his strong and fair facial features served to make him appear to be one of the highborn. This was an elf that wouldn¡¦t have to demand; but deserved respect.

¡§Our guest would have a word with you,¡¨ Celeborn presented the wood elf and motioned for them to make use of the bench below. The elf bowed slightly to her as Celeborn continue up the stairs, and disappeared around the corner. Brenauth, curious, turned awkwardly and walked toward the bench; he followed. Once they were seated, he pulled from beneath his robe, what looked like a small bundle of cloth, tied with string. He began to unravel the mysterious item while she waited, curious and confused. Out of the cloth, he pulled a most unusual and delicate looking necklace. The sight of it took her breath, and now she was even more perplexed. He held it up so that the sunlight could illuminate its jewels ¡V diamonds carefully cradled in the finest Dwarvish silver. She was speechless; she knew the value of such a treasure.

¡§It truly is marvelous,¡¨ he held it up in front of his face, turning it from side to side, studying it thoroughly before turning to Brenauth, ¡§I was charged with giving this gift to you, my Lady.¡¨

¡§To me?¡¨ she stammered. She didn¡¦t understand, ¡§Charged?... By whom?¡¨

"My father, Oropher," the golden elf replied. "He said you, among all the elves of Lothlorien would be able to appreciate this," he seemed unsure of father¡¦s reasons but still smiled softy, holding the necklace out to her.

"Oropher? The king of the Greenwood?" she asked with hush tones. "Then you are......"

"Thranduil Oropherion¡K yes." he finished, bowing his head slightly, lowering his eyes momentarily, and her eyes became fixed on him at this revelation.

¡¥Of course,¡¦ she thought. ¡¥He did have a noble demeanor, it made sense.¡¦

He waited, holding out the jewel, but she hesitated, trying to remember if she knew this elf, for long ago she had known his father, Oropher well, having fought by his side in many of the conflicts which followed Morgoth¡¦s ravaging in Beleriand, including the destruction of her own home, Gondolin. Oropher had come among the Silvan Elves of the Green forest with only a handful of Sindar, soon merging with them in language, taking names of Silvan type. They did so on purpose, having come from the ruin of Doriath.

She and Oropher had shared an understanding, after his home had fallen to ruin. They had much in common; had trusted each other, both adapting to their new lives and adjusting to new realms. But more, they had trusted each other in battle, creating a bond that can never be broken ¡V Oropher, despite so much time having passed without an audience, she considered a most trusted friend.

¡§Thranduil, son of Oropher,¡¨ she sounded as if she were confirming this, as she spoke his name, ¡§I knew your father well,¡¨ in a reverent tone. She appraised the necklace, but didn¡¦t comprehend the gesture; it wasn¡¦t that she didn¡¦t appreciate it, she just didn¡¦t understand. Her mind wondered with the memories of her old friend, but a sparkle from the necklace brought her back to the here and now. It was a most unusual necklace; she believed it to be the most beautiful she had ever beheld. The delicate shaping of the metal weaved exquisitely and accentuated the many colored diamonds clustered around a large white marquis in its front; it was magnificent, though, not as fancy as the elven jewelry. As a matter of fact, others would consider it plain, but her old friend had done well; he knew her tastes.

She remained silent, making eye contact with the pleasant prince who, seeming to understand her shyness raised the necklace forward, gesturing as if offering to place it for her. With a hesitant but gently smile, she leaned forward to allow him to put it on, raising her hair with both hands to allow him better access. He moved forward slowly, keeping his eyes fixed on hers as he reached behind her neck with both ends of the necklace. His smile was reassuring as he spoke,

¡§My father was quite insistent that you have this, Brenauth,¡¨ releasing his hold on the necklace, he let his fingertips gently graze her neck as he pulled away. Upon feeling this, she felt a chill and shuttered beneath her robe. For a brief moment she allowed her eyes to close as the gentle touch caused a strong tingling beneath her skin.

¡§Thank you, my lord,¡¨ was all she could think to say.

Taking her hand in his, he raised it, ¡§No¡K please. Thranduil,¡¨ he brought her hand to his lips, gently kissing it as he looked into her eyes. Behind him, she saw other Greenwood elves approaching. Still holding her hand, he stood and bowed, a playful smile on his face,

¡§Do you dance, my Lady?¡¨ his playful smile turned devious as he stood straight, released her hand, and took his leave with his companions.

They waited by the fountain and turned to walk as he joined their party; one giving Thranduil inquisitive looks as the prince came along side the others.

¡§The Lady is quite extraordinary¡K¡¨ the one in the middle remarked and was interrupted when the third wood elf leaned over his companion and with a lecherous grin and a playful tone, added,

¡§The Lady would make quite a conquest!¡¨ he emphasized his statement with a less than polite gesture, at which the other elf laughed heartily. Thranduil smiled.

~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~

Brenauth walked down the lighted path towards the laughter and music coming from the gardens. There was always a larger attendance at the banquettes when the Greenwood elves were present and she could hear the roaring chatter of elves. As she stepped up and through the arched entry she heard the herald announcing her arrival; she paused and bowed towards the high table, acknowledging her Lord and Lady, noticing the Greenwood prince had joined them. Upon hearing her name, Brenauth heard a large group of Greenwood elves, lead by Rhokrist, cheer unusually loud ¡V Brenauth felt her cheeks burn as the ovation turned to laughter and Rhokrist, laughing freely, left their table and walked in Brenauth¡¦s direction.

¡§You truly are an orc¡¦s ass,¡¨ Brenauth muttered through clenched teeth while still smiling.

¡§Oh, my Lady¡K you do know how to make an entrance,¡¨ she kept her look serious to which Brenauth just rolled her eyes to meet her friend¡¦s. The two friends glared at one another, each one trying not to be the first to laugh. Rhokrist managed to keep her face controlled, while Brenauth gave in with a soft chuckle and a shake of her head.

The two headed toward the wine table and picked up a goblet. Brenauth and Rhokrist turned towards each other and raised their glasses in a silent toast. After taking a sip Brenauth began to move in the direction of the high table but Rhokrist took her arm and led her to the table where the Greenwood elves were seated. Brenauth stopped pulling against her lead and glanced back at the high table, catching Lady Galadriel¡¦s eye. The Lady saluted Brenauth with her cup and laughed. Brenauth knew there would be no help from that corner, and allowed Rhokrist to guide her to the sea of merry Greenwood faces.

The bright stars lit the night, the brisk air providing comfort to those who danced, and long flowing gowns stirred on the dance floor as Brenauth laughed with her new friends. The sweet wine flowed freely as she talked with the visitors, and the cheerful woodland music kept moods high. As she looked around, taking in the scene about her, Brenauth¡¦s thoughts turned inward, remembering how just days ago she would never have thought herself capable of socializing in this manner, and now, here she was drinking, joking and laughing with the wood elves of Greenwood and Lothlorien.

As the night played on, Brenauth became more and more acquainted with many of the elves from both realms, but it seemed that wherever Rhokrist was, the laughter was louder, the jokes funnier, and the drinking heavier; Brenauth, being an amateur drinker, became intoxicated quickly. Nevertheless, she was having a grand time. Many of the Galadhrim had joined their table and Brenauth watched as the elleths of Lorien encouraged the flirtatious nature of their new acquaintances, giggling in clusters and smiling wantonly at the elves of Greenwood, who smiled back, while they traded stories of their exploits with the their new Lothlorien friends.

Brenauth sat next to Rhokrist, who was currently preparing another mug of a potent and vile tasting liquid for them both. Their new Silvan acquaintance, Aegnor, had pulled it from beneath his robes, prideful to have made it himself. The others at the table had shown excitement at seeing it but Brenauth was still wondering what its appeal was; it burned her throat and tasted like scorched honey.

Brenauth was scanning over the dancers, when she saw the Greenwood leader on the other side, talking with two young elleths who were making their intentions toward him very obvious. He seemed completely at ease with this and appeared to be able to handle it with no trouble. After their meeting that day, she had concluded that this was a very confident elf that was very comfortable with himself, very self-aware of what his station afforded him and he appeared to be taking advantage of that at the moment. She blushed at this and smiling began to look farther around the grounds when she spotted the March Warden.

He had looked right at her and then had immediately turned away to walk on through the crowd. She still didn¡¦t understand the feelings she had toward him. Even now, just a glance and she had immediately felt feelings that she couldn¡¦t place. What had started out as feelings she wanted to avoid, were changing into frustration she wanted to confront, her brow rutted with her obvious annoyance, the liquors effecting her mind now.

He had been watching her all evening and was confused by the difference in her behavior; his frustration was quickly surpassing hers.

¡§Sweet Valar, this is good,¡¨ Rhokrist had finished her mug with a grimace and was pushing Brenauth¡¦s toward her, encouraging her to follow. Brenauth picked it up and put it to her lips, stopping to smell it. She flinched slightly and chuckles broke out around the table.

¡§Go on,¡¨ Rhokrist pushed as onlookers smiled at Brenauth. She lifted the cup and tipped it quickly, swallowing as fast as she could as to not taste it; it didn¡¦t work. Her small coughs eliciting slight giggles as one of the Greenwood soldiers offered friendly words of encouragement, ¡§Well done!¡¨

¡§I heard quality drinking was at this table,¡¨ an energetic silver-haired Galadhrim joined their table, shifting through cups and smelling their contents, ¡§I hope there is still some for me?¡¨

¡§Of course, and your good company is welcome, Rumil,¡¨ Rhokrist quickly began to pour a goblet for him. Without hesitation he drank it quickly and immediately looked over the table.

¡§I need a dancing partner,¡¨ he looked around the table and his eyes stopped at Brenauth, ¡§My Lady,¡¨ he bowed quickly and walked around to where Brenauth was seated, ¡§would you join me in the next dance?¡¨

Brenauth startled at his request and felt her cheeks flush a little. It wasn¡¦t that she was embarrassed to dance, although she wasn¡¦t sure she could remember, but she was just afraid she was too intoxicated to stand. Up until then, she had just been trying to concentrate on forming her words and making sense of the conversations. She didn¡¦t think she could hide her condition if she were forced to stand and walk.

¡§Yes! My Lady, go ahead,¡¨ Rhokrist appeared excited for her friend, ¡§Rumil is a great dancer!¡¨ She raised her cup to gesture a compliment to him as she spoke and he nodded in thanks.

¡§Oh¡K,¡¨ Brenauth stammered, trying to think of an excuse. ¡§I don¡¦t think so.¡¨

¡§Aww¡K go on, my Lady, it will be fun,¡¨ Rhokrist smiled sweetly, trying to sound heartening. ¡§You must, you haven¡¦t danced all evening.¡¨ Rhokrist shifted and adjusted in her seat.

¡§Why don¡¦t you Rhokrist? Neither have you,¡¨ Brenauth pointed out, Rumil now turning his attention to Rhokrist.

¡§Yes,¡¨ Rumil agreed and walked to her, ¡§Why don¡¦t you?¡¨ He stood in place, extending his arm, waiting for her reply. Rhokrist met his eyes for a few moments, wearing a simple, pleased smile, which he returned; she took his arm and they walked onto the dance floor. Brenauth did not know this elf but it was apparent that Rhokrist was fond of him.

Brenauth was watching her friend¡¦s grace on the dance floor when a voice loomed over the table.

¡§I trust these elves are behaving courteously, my Lady?¡¨ Thranduil stood over the table, smiling slyly at Brenauth. Jesting voices of protest answered him as he laughed heartily, looking around at his, companions and then turning his attention back to Brenauth. She quickly shied away for fear that he would know that she was appraising him. Watching him throughout the evening, Brenauth could see that he was an honorable elf and that he behaved properly, as a gracious elf should. But he seemed to be fond of the ladies, having danced flirtatiously with several of them throughout the evening; his glares making his mind obvious. Yes, he did so like the ladies, but she did not believe him to be gratuitous toward her; just a playful personality who liked to tease - a trait that most green elves possessed.

His eyes met Brenauth¡¦s and they smiled sweetly at each other over the roaring laughter and clanks of goblets at the table. He walked around to where she sat and squatted low in order to talk with her.

¡§Lady¡K come. I have not seen you dance this evening,¡¨ he took both her hands and lifted them, which she provided a slight resistance, glancing around to find that no one was paying them any mind. She carefully allowed him to lead her to her feet, at which time she waved slightly and he quickly placed his hand at the small of her back in order to steady her,

¡§Oh¡K Lady,¡¨ he laughed heartily, ¡§you have been drinking Aegnor¡¦s special brew,¡¨ he held her steady as his chuckles died down, ¡§how much did you consume?¡¦

She blinked her eyes, trying to steady her vision, ¡§Four, I think,¡¨ she flexed her face to ascertain whether it was still there.

His eyes widened, his brows raise, and a shocked exhale and laugh answered her. He turned to his companions and gave them a shocked look of disbelieve and chastisement to which they only shrugged their shoulders to answer. He looked back on Brenauth and caringly spoke,

¡§Come Lady, let us work some of its effects off on the dance floor,¡¨ he turned to lead her.

¡§My Lord¡K,¡¨ she slurred over a swollen and numb tongue, he interrupted,

¡§Thranduil,¡¨ he corrected.

She took a deep breath, trying to clear her mind, ¡§Thranduil, I don¡¦t think I can.¡¨

¡§Not to worry. I will steady us both,¡¨ and with that, he grabbed her close, pulled her to him where she could almost look him in the eye, if only she were an inch taller, and began to lead her around the dance floor. She was twirled and twisted smoothly around the floor, passing other couples who joyfully laughed and squealed in delight. Despite Brenauth¡¦s condition, she began to smile unknowingly, for she couldn¡¦t help herself. Thranduil was a strong partner and was making it easy for her to take pleasure in this dance. He began to turn faster and faster and she closed her eyes and allowed her head fall back; she laughed out loud to which a few close by noticed and smiled appreciatively toward the couple. Many were pleasantly surprised to see her on the dance floor and the young elleths saw it as a great accomplishment of Greenwood¡¦s prince to have used his charm to get the Lady to dance, but one Galadhrim was not pleased at all ¡V Haldir.

He stood behind the crowd, who watched the dancer¡¦s cheerful spree and the Lady¡¦s unusual facade, looking over the heads of elves, a jealous and protective rage growing inside of him. He slowly began to walk toward the sidelines of the dance level, which was only one step up from the rest of the grounds. His eyes fixed, he watched her with the prince; her tall figure, her bright smile, the beam of her silver eyes, her long elegant raven hair flowing freely, how relaxed she seemed in his arms; he couldn¡¦t stop looking at her.

He had made it to the dance floor edge and watched with everyone else. He quickly looked around at all the spectators who smiled and clapped along with the music. Even Lord Celeborn and the Lady were standing and smiling as they watched the Lady Brenauth and Greenwood¡¦s prince dance. The music changed which signified all the dancer¡¦s to switch partners; quickly the dancers began to shuffle through each other, weaving left and right of each other, to which Brenauth landing in another elf¡¦s arms ¡XOrophin¡¦s.

Without hesitation, this new, handsome Galadhrim began to twirl Brenauth around the dance floor while she laughed uncontrollably, turning her head to meet the eyes of the prince who smiled back reassuringly. With a sudden clang, the music stopped and all the elves clapped and laughed vigorously, thanking each other and walking to their tables. The music then slowed down as Brenauth, still intoxicated and confused about her location, started to try to make her way back to the table. Suddenly she walked right into the chest of a very tall elf.

Looking up she met the eyes of the March Warden. He looked through her as if she were glass, her smile slowly fading, and after several very uncomfortable moments, he spoke commandingly,

¡§I would have your next dance, Lady,¡¨ he bowed and waited for an answer.

She wanted to run away, he was confusing her. She felt anger illuminating from within his stone cold, steel stare and, yet, he wanted to dance with her? It didn¡¦t make sense. She simply bowed to answer, and kept her eyes fixed on the blurry vision of the elf in front of her. He raised his hand, asking for hers. Taking his hand, she allowed him to lead her out onto the dance floor.

Orophin, who had turned and witnessed this, stopped and watched in amazement; Rumil coming up from behind him, the two giving each other inquisitive looks, questioned,

¡§He doesn¡¦t dance?¡¨ Rumil laughed as he spoke and Orophin only shrugged in amazement.

Haldir had placed his hand on the small of her back and led her to sway slightly to the soft music. Keeping his stare fixed over her head at first, and her¡¦s, over his shoulder, they danced in silence for several moments. Her hand gently gripping his stiffened bicep, she could feel his tension and it loomed over her, making her long for the dance to be over; she was most uncomfortable.

He broke his stature and glanced down, noticing the necklace she wore. He had never seen anything like it. It was obviously not elvish, and he wondered where it had come from; he hadn¡¦t noticed her wearing it before.

¡§A most unusual jewel you wear,¡¨ he broke the silence. Keeping her head fixed, she rolled her eyes up to glance at his face; his prominent jaw was fixed and flexed as he swallowed. She hadn¡¦t realized until now, how much taller he was than most of the others. She too, was a tall elleth, rarely looking up like this to anyone, but right now, his size only served to intimidate her.

¡§Yes,¡¨ was all she could manage to say, her mind clouded and unsure. Again, there was a long moment of discomfort. He rolled his eyes down without turning his head and closely examined her face; she was magically beautiful, her hair shined, the sparkling of the subtle jewel being overcome by her prominent eyes. He unconsciously slid his hand farther around her waist, pulling her tightly to his body; he glanced down where the long jewel fell delicately between her breasts. Memories of her pale skin against his appeared in his mind. Feeling her tense body against his; pressure rose inside of him.

Brenauth trembled slightly at his grip. It was unforeseen and astonished her, given the aura of animosity he emitted. She wondered about his mood; so contradictory. She was unprepared to handle this, feeling a heat rise inside of her. She felt so helpless in his clutch and, yet, curious. She wanted to say something, anything to release some of their tension but she didn¡¦t understand their reaction to each other ¡V what could she say?

Brenauth started to feel unwell and her breathing quickened subtly, but Haldir felt it and let his head fall to look at her. She pulled back slightly and met his gaze. Uncertainty in her eyes, Haldir suddenly felt her perplexity. She stopped dancing and pulled away, her eyes randomly looking around the floor, trying to find the right words,

¡§I¡K I¡K must excuse myself, ¡K please,¡¨ a surrendering last look, she turned and walked, staggering slightly toward the exit of the grounds. Haldir watched her retreat as he stood rooted to his spot.

¡§Well, that didn¡¦t last long,¡¨ Rumil stated with disgust as he turned from Orophin, who watched them curiously from their table. After a few moments, Haldir, who had watched, face blank, followed Brenauth¡¦s retreat, keeping his eyes fixed on the empty spot where she had exited.

She walked briskly, down the path toward her quarters. She could tell her body was swaying but could not stop herself from staggering from side to side as she walked down the path. Feeling the dizziness overtaking her, she stopped and gripped a large tree and leaned her head against it. She closed her eyes and breathed deep, hoping air would help to clear her mind. After a few seconds, she stood tall again, a tall figure appearing behind her.

¡§Lady, ¡§ he sternly said her name in order to gain her attention. She turned, startled, and froze, keeping eye contact, bewilderment covered her face. He took a step toward her when he saw her start to tilt as if to fall. She took a steadying step back and blinked her eyes abundantly trying to focus her vision. At this, he realized her condition and exhaled. It explained some things.

She started to fall, when he lunged forward and caught her, cradling her in his arm, her long, limp body slouching back over his arm, she gazed up into his eyes and did not see anger but concern there. Her eyes heavy, she fought to keep them open as he quickly lifted her up, cradling her in his arms and began to walk carefully toward her quarters. She tried to hold her head up, but failing to do so, weakly let her head fall into the crook of his neck, her nose gently grazing the skin there.

Feeling her breath on his skin, Haldir felt exhilarated but tried to focus on getting Brenauth to her quarters quickly. As he walked, she slowly raised her arms and wrapped them around his neck and tightening them, pulled herself up higher in order to rest her chin on his shoulder. His eyes widened at this and then drunkenly closed as he flet her arms around him; he held her tighter and closer, walking faster now toward her quarters.

He climbed the stairs carefully and entered her rooms. He glanced around at all the scrolls and parchments, cautiously stepping as he walked through her parlor and into her bedroom. Placing her on the bed, she opened her eyes and smiled brilliantly at him.

¡¥She truly has no idea how she effects me.¡¦

He turned to leave when she sat up and spoke,

¡§What is this¡K you and me?¡¨ she wavered slightly, trying to keep her eyes on him. He stopped and turned slowly, obviously tensing up again. Walking back to her bedside he spoke,

¡§You must rest, Lady,¡¨ his face remained empty as he said this.

She weakly rose from the bed and walked to him, stopping only inches away. She openly appraised him, his chest first, his arms, his hands, neck and then face, looking into his eyes. He was truly magnificent and suddenly she felt aroused. She had forgotten these feelings until now and suddenly she realized what it was. She couldn¡¦t believe her own gruffness as she made her feelings apparent when she looked at him; the wine was strongly effecting her behavior.

Haldir¡¦s breathing intensified, he couldn¡¦t believe his eyes. She was wanton, and for him. He wanted Brenauth, he wanted to make her his, ravage her body so that she would remember his face always. He could picture it in his mind, he wanted to hear her voice as she moaned beneath him, look into her eyes as he took her. He was fully aroused and felt the tightness of his leggings growing. He held his chin high as she closed the distance between them and raised her hands to couple his face. He shied, ever so slightly at this, afraid of his own inability to control himself, but still, she griped his face and pulled him down to her.

In a jerked motion, he suddenly snapped his hands up and grasps her wrists. She paid him no mind, simply looking at one of his hands and disregarding as she slowly let her lips graze his. Softly, Brenauth teased as she turned her cheek slightly to allow his nose to gently graze her face. She nuzzled his nose and he truly could not remember feeling so conquered as he was, right now, in her clasp.

Suddenly, and without warning, he grabbed her up, wrapping his strong arm around her waist, lifting her off the ground and holding her in the air with one arm, while the other reached up and caressed her fair cheek. She tilted her head back, allowing him to run his long, strong fingers over her neck. His fingers touched her lips which she opened them slightly, allowing a soft moan to escape, her head fell farther back, her eyes closed.

Haldir looked at the vulnerable elleth before him. She was his to do with as he pleased, and willingly too, but something came over him. He couldn¡¦t take her. He tried to force himself, but couldn¡¦t do it. He let her down and released her. She stepped back and with a confused look, waited for him.

¡§Not like this,¡¨ was all he said as he turned and left her quarters. She stumbled back onto her bed and laid there. She was confused and humiliated but soon drifted off to sleep.

~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~

The March Warden had been walking through the forest for a while when he heard the chaos ahead. It was the middle of the night and he knew that elves all over the city were making there way home from the banquet. He hadn¡¦t wanted to go back to his quarters after leaving the Lady Brenauth¡¦s chambers, desiring to walk a while and consider the events this night. He couldn¡¦t believe that he had turned from her, and had been chastising himself ever sense, but kept comforting himself by deducting that it had been the right thing to do.

¡¥I¡¦m such a fool.¡¦

He heard voices ahead and could tell it was stragglers from the banquet by the laughing and jesting which echoed through the forest. Up ahead he spotted several elves walking and talking as they laughed and sang, some holding large bottles which they drank from. ¡¥These had to be Greenwood elves,¡¦ he thought as he came closer to them. They paid him no mind as they walked on, heading toward the outer forest. He wondered about their destination but assumed that they headed for the great Anduin, possibly for a late night swim. Haldir continued his stroll, suddenly meeting Rumil on the path.

¡§Brother!¡¨ Rumil obviously feeling the effects of the wine, was glad to see his brother and laughed uncontrollably as he looked at his brother. Haldir looked up from Rumil to see Orophin, not far behind, heading the same way.

¡§Where do you go?¡¨ the eldest asked as the other two started to head in the same direction as the Greenwood elves.

¡§To a party,¡¨ Rumil laughed as Orophin tried to quite him. Orophin stopped and walked back to Haldir. He stood in contemplation for a moment, seeming to decide what to say or do; suddenly he made a decision.

¡§Why don¡¦t you join us?¡¨ Orophin had a strange expression on his face, Haldir couldn¡¦t place it. He looked at his brother for quite a while when Orophin added, ¡§I think you will most enjoy it.¡¨

Haldir met his stare with a questioning look but knew better than to ask upon seeing his younger brother¡¦s expression. Orophin stepped aside and motioned for Haldir to lead them down the path. Slowly Haldir accepted and started to walk down the dark path. Rumil, with raised brows, glanced at Orophin before they followed.

Ahead, Haldir could see the faint light of a lone fire. Silhouettes were gathered around it and Haldir¡¦s curiosity peaked. It was strangely quiet as Haldir stopped just before entering the clearing. He turned to face his younger brothers who simply walked around him and entered the clearing, Haldir, confused, followed. Many elves and elleths were about the clearing; no one was talking. They all simply waited patiently. Haldir noticed many of the elleths reaction at seeing him enter the clearing, their shock clear on their faces. He settled next to Orophin who stood facing the fire.

All the elleths were on the other side of the fire; elves the other. Haldir gave his brother a stern and questioning look to which Orophin smiled wickedly,

¡§You will like this,¡¨ Orophin walked back into the elves and whispered into a strange elf¡¦s ear - the elf nodded slightly. Suddenly, elves began to play slow and seductive music accompanied with faint drumming. Haldir¡¦s attention was turned toward the other side of the fire when the movement of an elleth caught his eye. She began to dance slowly and soon the others followed.

The March Warden looked back at his brother who did not pay him any mind, but kept his stare fixed on an elleth on the other side; they all did. One of the elves next to Haldir slowly lifted his arms and removed his tunic, all the while, beginning to move slowly to the music. Soon others followed, including both of Haldir¡¦s brothers.

Haldir had unconsciously moved to the back of the clearing and took in this strange sight. Elleths danced seductively as they moved ceremoniously, removing their clothes leisurely. Haldir slowly began to realize this erotic scene and became aware of what was going to happen. He walked slowly, along the clearing edge, noticing that a few of the elves and elleths here, he knew well, while most others must have been from the Greenwood realm.

Most of them were naked now and danced under the light of the stars, the light highlighting their naked bodies. They looked exhilarated but Haldir felt awkward, continuing to walk around the clearing, still trying to believe what he was seeing. He had just decided to leave when a young unknown elleth moved up behind him. His cold stare was all she received as she rounded the March Warden and came to stand in front of him.

She moved slowly, swaying her hips, staring intensely at the tall elf in front of her. He showed no reaction as she turned her back to him and allowed him a clean view of her physique. Moments later, facing him, she began to undress him which he allowed; he had decided to satisfy his appetites. Once undressed, he continued to stand, sure-footed while she entertained him. Her body weaved in front of him as she again faced away from him, leaning back into him, she reached above her, cupping her arms around the back of his neck, proceeding to grind into his groin, rubbing his large, erect muscle with her rear. Her back arched as she teased him mercilessly. He reached around and grasped her breasts forcefully as he bit into her neck, sucking strongly, but his mind was not on her. It was not her he was going to bed this night; not in his mind.

She reached back and began cradling his large muscle in her hands. Looking around, most had paired off and lavished their affections freely around the fire; the image of the coupling intoxicating him. He looked up at the stars as she turned and began to work him while licking at his muscled chest, nipples, and neck. Looking up, he closed his eyes and thought of Brenauth. Remembering her image tonight, in his arms, her eyes closed, her small mouth, her soft moan. That was all it took.

He didn¡¦t concern himself with who was there in the clearing anymore; who would see, who would know, they didn¡¦t exist anymore. Forcefully he turned the elleth and pulled her back into him, lifted her up at the waist and walked just to the edge of the clearing; dropping to his knees, taking her down with him. She fought slightly, appearing to be somewhat frightened, but she had chosen him, and it was him she would get. Both on their knees, the elleth facing away from him, he positioned her by reaching forward and roughly bringing her body back into his. One hand reached around and clasps her breast tightly while the other reached down between her legs to feel about her opening. She was ready for him. He reached back up and, grabbed the back of her neck, forcing her forward onto her elbows, then pushing her down into the ground, making the elleth lay her face onto the grass. She seemed to struggle a little in protest but, again, quickly gave in. He continued to hold her there by her neck while he reached down between her legs from behind and caressed her wet folds for only a moment. His fingers now moist, he clasps his own erection and probed her opening with the tip. She gasps as he thrust suddenly, sinking deep into her, pushing hard to hilt. The elleth attempted to crawl away as she struggled to take in his large erect muscle, but he showed no notice as he looked up at the sky again, exhaling as he held his position.

Now, deep in her, he started to grind, feeling his outer parts stroke against hers as he slowly started to withdrawal and enter at the same time. Now moving faster, he released her head and grasped her rear, her cries of pain and passion falling on his deaf ears. His eyes closed, his mind still with ¡¥her¡¦, he pummeled into her, feeling her tense with each thrust. He reached forward, clutching her breasts and pulled her torso back into him, causing her to arch her back so he could continue to move into her. He thrusts upward, into her and held it there, but it wasn¡¦t satisfying. Frustrated he withdrawals and let her fall limp, her face showing obvious confusion. He stood there and looked over into the forest, when he got an idea.

Charging suddenly, he caught her and grabbed her up, carrying her just inside the edge of the forest, where the others could not see. Once inside, he released the elleth who turned around to gaze with questioning eyes. He roughly grabbed her and turned her once again to face away. His hands were everywhere, claiming her as she breathed heavily and gave in. Suddenly, he pushed her forward, over a fallen tree, putting her at perfect height for him. He raised her legs up and hooked her feet in front of his shoulders as he reached forward and brought her arms over her back and tightly clasp them with his strong hand. With his other hand he parted her cheeks and quickly found her opening again, pressing emphatically and hungrily into her. Now, one arm held in each hand, he pressed into her, deep and hard, lifting her body up as his thrusts were slow, yet violent, the penetration bringing out long gasps and moans from deep within her throat.

Through gritted teeth he grunted, his face strained as he strived to reach his goal - his release. Every muscle was being used as he pounded into her helpless body. He could not hear her cries and pleas over his own grunts as he pounded her with his hard organ. He let his head fall back, all the while, thrusting harder into her, both their cries filling the forest.

Suddenly he released her, throwing his arms in the air and pulling away, raising his arms to clasp handfuls of his own hair, his head tilted back, letting out a roar of rage and frustration at his inability to reach his climax. He paced, eventually settling back into a tree, and slid down to rest on the forest floor panting to regain his breath - the elleth, still lying there, and struggling to do the same. Exhausted, his mind was puzzled and questioned. While he stared into the forest, the elleth crawled to him, settling between his legs, kissing the inside of his thighs, and began to move her tongue up to his semi-erect muscle. Annoyed with her, but too tired to care he allowed her to gently lick and suckle at his organ.

TBC¡K

***Thanks for your reviews. Constructive criticism is welcomed and appreciated, and would welcome suggestions as well. Reviews inspire me to work more so please do. ļ