Into Love's Arms

Celeborn cursed as the storm pounded over his party. They were still a day's ride from Lorien and they could barely see in front of them. They were all soaked to the bone and he feared for Heidi and his unborn child. She was a half elf she could still get sick. Haldir shouted that they had found a cave where they could seek shelter. Celeborn took the reins from Heidi and led her horse there. Rumil came over and helped her dismount as she was shivering so bad she could hardly move. She was quickly ushered into the cave where several guardians had started a fire. Orophin knew she had to get out of her wet clothes but there were so many around. Surely Celeborn did not want his wife, their Lady, to strip off in public? Celeborn also understood the prediciment. He ordered everyone to turn their backs as he escorted Heidi to the back of the cave. He helped her change into his spare robes. heidi giggled at herself for she was practicly swimming in the robes but they did keep her warm. Her dress was laid by the fire to dry. She sat down and let her husband and guardians set up their camp. Someone had gone out an shot a brace of coneys and Haldir was now slowly roasting them over the fire. Two guardians stood outside the cave watching for anything hostile. Rumil and Orophin sat next to her and they tried to engage her in conversation. Her attempts were half hearted at best because she was cranky. Her back hurt and she was starving. Heidi kept eyeing the rabbits unaware of the amused looks she was receiveing from everyone.

*~*~*~*~*
Meanwhile in Mirkwood...

Denise sat in front of the fire in the Great Hall next to her Legolas and Thranduil played chess. She had this sense of foreboding but she didn't know why. Standing she crossed over to the window and was shocked to see it was pouring out.

"I hope they made it to Lorien. Just look at it rain." she said aloud.

Legolas looked up and out the window. "I doubt they reached Lorien it is to early they are most likely a day or two away."

Denise spun around horrified. "You mean they're out there in this?!?!"

"They probably sought shelter pen-neth. Celeborn isn't stupid you cannot ride in this." Thranduil's words were meant to cpmfort but they didn't.

Denise stared out the window and sent a silent prayer up to the Valar that they would be safe.

*~*~*~*~*
Back in the cave.

Heidi accepted a plate of food from Haldir. There was roast rabbit and lembas bread as well as water. Hungrily she dug in. She knew she should probably eat with more decorum but she was so hungry. Celeborn glared as several snickered at their new lady. She ate as an Orc would! Heidi heard the laughter and she stopped eating. Celeborn's glares intensified.

"Obviously they have never been pregnant milady." his voice was loud enough to overhear.

Heidi started to eat again but this time she ate slowly and carefuly.Haldir toucher ler leg as he handed her some berries he had in his supplies. Heidi smiled softly and took the welcome offering. Haldir looked at his men and his glare promised swift retribution for their subtle put down. Oh yes they would pay for their laughter when they returned home. After the food had been eaten and the fire banked Heidi lay down on a bed roll in the back of the cave. The others slept a respectful distance away to give her and Celeborn a modicum of privacy. Celeborn arranged the watch before he laid down behind Heidi. Heidi snuggled back against him as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

"Haldir says the rain is lightening up. We should be able to ride at first light love." whispered Celeborn as he rubbed her back.

Heidi sighed softly as all the aches and kinks left her body. She melted against him.

"Thats fine with me." cthe the half awake reply.

Celeborn smiled and held his wife as she fell asleep.

TBC