A Difficult Bride

Title: A Difficult Bride (Chapter 6/12)

Author: Ambur

Beta: Dinah

Rating: NC-17

Warnings: mild violence, language, graphic sex

Summary: Haldir is still wooing. It might be going his way now
.
Genre: AU, Romance, adventure, drama, humor, NON-CANON!!!!

Disclaimer: LOTR not mine, belongs to J.R.R. Tolkien estate. Please don’t sue.


Chapter 6

Mina could barely contain her excitement as she waited for her brother to reach the city. Orophin had sent word to the city by way of a runner that Legolas and his companions had reached the borders of the Golden Wood just before dawn that morning.

Haldir watched her bounce slightly on the balls of her feet as she stared out the window. Legolas would not be there until nightfall yet she acted as if he would arrive any moment. He gave a blissful sigh and went back to the breakfast she had cooked for him. Freshly baked bread, freshly prepared jam, and warm oats had been made for him upon his awakening.

“Mina, dearest, please come and break your fast with me. Your brother will not reach the city until late this evening.”

Her sharp intake of breath caused him momentary alarm. She began to pace and chaff her hands together. “He will have Aragorn and Alcazar with him I am sure. Ooh! And maybe he will bring the little dwarf. That will be…” Her voice trailed off as she counted on her fingers, “at least eight I must prepare a meal for, possibly nine if Orophin returns with them.”

Haldir shook his head as he popped the last piece of jam and bread into his mouth. He stood with his plate and sat in the basin.

She turned to face him, “How much longer do you think it will be until father arrives?”

Haldir moved to wrap his arms around her, “Probably two more days travel. I sent word of our plans to wed to him several days back. If I know Thranduil, I am sure he departed his Kingdom the very next day to make the journey here.”

“Oh poo! I do not know if I will have his new quiver finished by then.”

He tightened his grip around her and chuckled, “You have changed much my love in such a short time.”

“Are yot pot pleased, March Warden?”

He knew she was in a playful mood when she referred to him by his title. He kissed her head. “I am very much pleased, my sweet. But do not change too much, for I adored you as you were before. I miss your little tantrums. I had much looked forward to taming you. I did not expect it to be so easy.”

She squeezed herself around in his arms and glared at him, “Tame me indeed! It is I who have tamed you and that terrible disposition you were constantly in. Look now Captain, you are not nearly as cranky and snotty as you once were.”

“Snotty! I could have you in irons for such slander to my person.”

She poked her tongue out at him. He leaned down and kissed her nose, “Tell me, was that an invitation?”

“Was it not you who informed me I should not do such unless I meant to make use of it?”

“Indeed.” He said softly as his mouth covered hers. Her hands snaked up his chest to cup his face as she parted her lips to allow him access.

Neither of them had mentioned what had occurred between them only a few days before. He had been so stunned by her boldness and how she had instigated the touching. Of course, much to his disappointment, she was the only one who had gotten to touch.

They had gone to bed that evening after their guests had left and he thought he might try to repay her kindness to him, but she had told him she was not ready for that yet. She wanted to go slowly. She told him that he need not feel he had to return the favor. She had been pleased simply to provide him with pleasure.

***


“I think you will be surprised when you see your sweet sister Legolas. She in not the quick tempered little maid she once was.”

“Indeed Orophin? Has your stoic older brother tamed my sister then?”

Orophin laughed, “Nay! He has been gone from her for three months time. She changed while he was away. She had much opportunity to nurture the many sides to her personality. My bother Rumil and I muse often on her willingness to learn and take on a new challenge. I was also amazed that she and dear Anna do no mind being covered with mud, food, or dirt as away of amusing themselves.”

It was Legolas’s turn to laugh. “My sister has always been very playful and free of spirit. Our father has often mused on how she should have been born male.”

Orophin changed the subject very carefully, “She has learned to cook and sew.”

Legolas nodded his approval, “I am glad. Often when she was a small child she would be found around the skirt tails of my father’s cook as she prepared sweets and other dishes. She always wanted to assist the cooks. I think she missed the company of an older female after our mother passed to the halls of Mandos.” A sigh escaped the Prince’s lips, “Wilamina was only 45 years of age when our mother passed.”

After a few moments of silence, Legolas spoke again, “I think my father and I are the cause of much of her immaturity.”

Legolad nod not see the amused looks of Aragorn and Alcazar. Orophin held a neutral expression.

“She is spoiled because both he and I are guilty of giving into her whines and tantrums, but I believe in my heart that we did so to compensate for how we stifled her so as she grew into adulthood. My father has given her little freedom in her short lifetime. I know there were many things Mina desired to do with other maidens her age, but her status prevented much of it. Our father’s desire to keep her oblivious to the world around her has had detrimental effects on her maturing I think. I am glad he sent her here. She needed to be away from the both of us.”

Orophin cleared his throat, “I am glad you feel this way mellon.” Orophin now looked pained, “she has learned to use a bow and sword.”

Aragorn and Alcazar glanced at one another. Legolas stiffened slightly, “I see. And who endeavored to teach her this skill?”

“Your sister had already begun her lessons before Haldir, I, or Rumil knew. She was most determined and refused to stop even when I asked her too. She began her lessons with an elleth from Rivendell, but now it is Rumil who oversees her lessons.”

Legolas’s lips tightened. He did like the idea of his delicate, slight sister armed.

Orophin sighed deeply, “Peace Legolas. She very much wants to impress you when you arrive. She has talked of nng bng but how she will surprise you. She very much wants you to be proud of her Legolas. She truly believes you hung the moon!”

A small smile quirked on Legolas’s lips, “I will hold my peace Orophin, my father however…” Orophin laughed at the Prince’s pained expression.

Alcazar cleared his throat then, “How is the young handmaiden, Anna?”

Legolas and Aragorn noticed the flinch in Orophin’s eye, “She is well Alcazar.”

“I look forward to seeing her again.” The challenge in Alcazar’s voice was lost on no one. Orophin’s brows narrowed slightly.

“Then we shall of course have you over for some meat and drink. I will tell Anna that we shall expect you in the coming days.”

The smile fell from Alcazar’s face, “Anna is residing with you then, Orophin?”

“Aye. She has been for quite sometime now. We are planning to wed sometime this winter.” Orophin grimaced inwardly. Perhaps he should have mentioned this to Anna before announcing it to others. Legolas slapped him on backback.

“Congratulations mellon! A double wng tng then for the Golden Wood?”

Orophin grinned sheepishly while praying silently Anna would not be difficult about it. He straightened his shoulders and looked ahead. Of course it mattered not whether she was not keen in the matter. She belonged to him and he would have her. If she refused him, he would simply take it to Thranduil.

***

Wilamina hurried through the city streets with the basket of fruit, grains, and fresh vegetables. She had less than three hours to prepare the meal and she wanted to bathe and change into one of her gowns before Legolas saw her. She nodded in greeting to the many Lorien elves who stopped to bow or curtsey to her in respect of her status as they passed her. She had just rounded a corner when she stumbled directly into another elf. Luckily, nothing fell from her basket.

“Oh! I am so sorry, I was not watching….” Mina’s voice died when she looked into the smiling face of Lea.

“It is alright My Lady. I have heard you received joyous news of your brother’s arrival and I am sure you are hurrying about to make things special for him.”

Mina swallowed nervously, “Oh…y-yes..I am.” She laughed nervously, “Well. It was nice to see you again, but I must go now.”

Mina tried to walk around her, but Lea stepped in front of her. Lea sighed deeply, “Princess, please stay a moment. I…I want to apologize for the horrid things I said to you on the archery field that day. It is not eaor mor me to admit that Haldir truly was not interested in me any longer. I was very jealous of you and desired to hurt you.”

Lea’s hand dropped to her heart, “Please forgive me Lady. I wat mut much of a friend to you that day and I regret that I might have lost your friendship forever because of it.”

Mina was taken aback. She did not expect this from Lea at all. Haldir had said Lea was a deceitful, calculating lair, but she seemed most sincere now. She wondered if they had parted badly and that was why Haldir did not want her to associate with her.

“I...all is forgiven Lea. I must admit I do not understand the animosity you and Haldir have for one another, but I can forgive you.” Mina laughed softly, “You showed much patience with me during my lessons. I am sure that was no easy task.”

Lea smiled warmly at her, “I enjoyed our time together Mina. If you would like, someday when you are ready, I should like to tell you about Haldir and I.”

Mina shook her head, “Nay Lea, tis none of my concern. You do not have to bring up something painful to…”

Lea held up her hand to silence her, “I would like to tell you Mina. Then you would understand why Haldir reacts so strongly to me.” Lea quickly changed tactics, “I know Haldir had forbidden you to speak with me. I am surprised to see you without an escort.”

Lea noticed Mina flinch slightly. So the little Princess still had her pride. “I would not wish to cause more difficulties between the two of you. If you would like someday, maybe we could take a walk together outside of the city and I could tell you what happened between us. You can seek me out whenever you chose.”

Lea could see the emotions playing across Mina’s face. Mina still had her doubts about Lea, but curiosity won in the end. Mina looked around to make sure Rumil wasn’t hiding somewhere or worse, Haldir. She leaned close to Lea.

“We could walk together the day after tomorrow if you would like.”

Lea nodded her head, very pleased. Mina moved even closer to Lea, “I shall seek you out that morning Lea.”

“Until then My Lady.” Lea bowed her head again. Mina gave her a short nod and went on her way. Lea watched her go and her smile fell into a harsh glare.


***

Haldir had not told Anna that Orophin would be accompanying the Prince to the city. Orophin had wanted to surprise her. Haldir watched as the two elleths hurried about preparing the mear thr the evening. Mina had just pulled the final pie from the iron stove and sat in on the windowsill to cool. Her gaze swept over the kitchen once more before she pulled the apron over her head.

“I must make myself ready now Anna. I wish for tcompcompany me to meet Legolas.”

“Then I will go and make myself ready also.”

Mina glanced at Haldir and smirked, “You should wear that lovely pale green gown father had made for you last Harvest. I am most certain Alcazar will be in the company of my brother.”

Haldir’s eyes narrowed as Mina grinned widely. Anna blushed and giggled softly.

“It will be good to see Alcazar..er...and Legolas again.” And with that, Anna turned on her heals and skipped out the door. Her soft giggles could be heard as she hopped down the stairs.

Mina noticed Haldir’s scowl and smiled innocently. She turned to walk into the bedroom. She had just bent down to reach into the linen closet when she felt a sharp pain to her backside. She jumped slightly and shrieked. Her hand immediatly went to her bottom to rub away the pain. She turned to see Haldir glaring down on her.

“You try and cause trouble little one.”

Mina’s face flushed and her eyes narrowed, “I was only teasing Haldir!” She shoved passed him, “And what is wrong with a young maid having two suitors. Anna is a lovely elleth and got very little male attention before your brother and Alcazar came along. She has every right to feel desired. If Orophin wants her so, then let him fight for her!”

He grimaced when she slammed the door to the washroom. His hand went to the doorknob, but he stopped when he heard the fabric of the dress slide over her body.

Haldir was sitting on the bed when she came out of the washroom. The towel she had wrapped tightly around her hung passed her knees. Her hair was also wrapped in a towel on top of her head and his gaze instantly fell to her small delicate neck. She did not speak to him as she rounded the bed to pick up her comb on the nightstand. She oppoopposite him on the bed, her back to him as she freed her hair.

She felt the weight of the bed shift as he slid over to sit behind her. She ignored him, bringing the comb to her hair. Haldir’s hand caught her wrist as she began to comb the tangles from her golden locks. She cocked her head to the side to regard him, scowl firmly on her face. Haldir took this opportunity to give her the most boyish smile he could give. Her face was as hard as mithril. He swallowed hard and grimaced.

She tried to pull her hand free, but his grip tightened. She looked back at him still scowling, but began to giggle when she saw his face. Haldir had played his last card to win a smile from her. His bottom lip protruded farther than she thought possible. When she began to laugh, his brow rose up and down rapidly as his eyes pleaded with her.

“Stop that! I am still angry with you!”

Haldir wiggled his bottom lip a bit, accentuating the pout; she turned toward him and shoved him backward on the bed. “Stop that March Warden! You have wounded me and I will not forgive you so easily!”

So the little Princess wished to play. Well, he would oblige. With lightening speed, Mina squealed as she found herself flipped onto her back on the mattress, pinned down by the much greater weight of the March Warden.

She squealed again when he began tickling her. She struggled underneath him, trying to stop his much larger hands from roaming over her sensitive sides. Pitying her when her eyes filled with tears, he sat up and let her catch her breath.

Haldir’s e fee fell when he noticed how high the towel had risen as she tried to free herself from his attack. His mouth parted slightly as his breath increased. The towel had risen almost past her hips and he could see the beginning of her soft folds. She studied his face a moment before realizing he was looking down. She raised her head of the mattress and gasped when she saw herself almost uncovered. Her hands instantly went to pull the towel down, but he stopped her.

“Don’t…please…” His voice was husky.

He held her hands, staring at her in silence a few moments. “You are so lovely Mina. Will you not let me touch you?”

She swallowed hard. She had not expected this, but knew it would come sooner or later. She could not deny that she had long dreamed of him touching her in this way. He released her hands and slowly traced his fingertips over her bare legs. Goose pimples raced over her skin as he touched her ever so lightly. She was mortified when she felt a spurt of wetness glide down her folds and inner thighs.

His fingertips were now sliding over her bare arms. He moved to lean over her, placing fluttering kisses over her eyelids and jaw line as his fingers continued to explore her soft skin.

“May I touch you Mina?” His breath was ragged against her cheek. She seemed reluctant to him. “You must trust me, sweetling. I would not hurt you nor take you farther than you wished to go.”

She took his face in her hands and kissed him softly, “I trust you with my life Haldir.”

He kissed her forehead, then her nose, and her jaw, “Will you let me see you?”

She pushed him gently into a sitting position as he straddled her legs. She sat upright herself and to his surprise, removed the towel from her body. His eyes fell to her very well endowed breasts. Often he had dreamed of burying his face between them, as he lay awake at night on patrol. His hands tentatively reached for her breasts and he cupped the soft flesh. The tiny rose bud nipples stood erect as his thumb gently brushed over them. A flush had crept over her neck and face. He could see in her eyes this was difficult for her and he loved her even more right then for allowing him this gift.

Haldir could only gawk and touch her gently. He had imagined how she would look naked, but never did he imagine her this lovely.

“Haldir…do not stare so.”

His eyes met hers where he saw unshed tears. He pulled her into his arms and kissed her head. “Forgive me Mina. I cannot help it. You are the most magnificent creature I have ever seen. I could look at you for hours like this, my lovely one.”

He pushed her back into the mattress and covered her body with his. She relaxed when she was not so vulnerable to him. His mouth closed over hers, coaxing her lips apart to allow his warm velvet tongue entrance. She wiggled underneath him, liking the rough feel of him tunic on her bare flesh. She did not mind being naked she discovered, as long as he did not leer at her so.

One hand cupped her face while the other made its way down the crevice of her breasts, to the flat plain of her soft belly, and he was rewarded a giggle when a finger circled her navel. He nudged her legs apart slightly with his knee as he continued to kiss her. He hoped to keep her mind occupied long enough to begin.

She gasped in his mouth when his finger found the tiny bundle of nerves hidden behind its soft hood. Her face went hot with embarrassment when he rubbed her gently with his index finger. Her hands were against his chest and her breathing short. He realized her panting was not from pleasure, but from embarrassment. He knew what was ailing her.

He removed his finger from her soft mound to look at the glistening moisture there. She closed her eyes tight and turned away. He hid his chuckle at her intense shyness.

“Mina, do not be embarrassed. This is a natural response. This is what males like to see, love. This lets us know you like what we are doing to you and it also lets us know you are ready to be loved. I am happy to see this Mina. Open your eyes. Do not turn away from me.”

Slowly Mina opened one eye and then the other. Her eyes widene sho shock when he licked his finger clean.

“Why did you do that Haldir?”

He smiled and kissed her nose, “Because I wanted to taste you. And I must say you are very sweet!”

She smiled shyly at his words, looking downward. His hand snaked its way back down to her mound. He dipped his finger between her slick folds once more and began with long, lingering strokes around her vulva and labia. His thumb would brush over her clit every few seconds causing a jolt of pleasure to jerk through her body. His mouth closed back over her nipple while the other free hand teased the other nipple gently.

Her legs instinctively widened and she began to move against his hand. He purposely avoided the untried core of her sex for fear it would be too much for right now. His thumb made a consistent circular motion over her clit now as he stroked her folds with his elegant fingers.

Her breathing was now raspy. Her eyes were open wide as she stared at the ceiling and concentrated on this foreign feeling that was coming over her.

She gasped, clutching his head as the tightness within her back and legs began to manifest with more force, “Hal…Haldir…what is happ…happening?”

He released her nipple to look at her briefly, “Do not be afraid, Mina. Trust me to take you there. You must let go.”

“Oooh…” She gritted out as her body began to tremble slightly. She could feel tightness within her sex. Haldir could sense her hesitation. She felt self conscious and ashamed. He took a chance and dipped the tip of his finger very gently into her tight small opening. She yelped in surprise and from the added pressure he had put on her clit.

She was still fighting him when he tried one more thing. Sliding down her body, his mouth replaced his fingers. She cried out when his mouth clamped over her clit, suckling and gently twirling it around his mouth. She could no longer fight it as she cried out again, clutching the sheets, and bucking into his face. Her body convulsed and withered violently underneath him as he kept his ministrations. Pinpoints of light flashed before her eyes and she closed hers res relishing the wave of pure bliss that racked her body. She closed her eyes as she felt it begin to fade, wanting it to stay longer.

She struggled to catch her breathing and struggled to sit up as her body still jerked every few seconds. She became vaguely aware Haldir was still between her legs and lapping at her.

“Hal..Haldir? What…ah…are you…oh…doing?” Her clit was still painfully sensitive to the touch. Finally he sat back on his heals with a very pleased look upon his face. He wiped his glistening chin with his fingers and then licked them clean.

“There, I have made you all clean for our visitors.”

Her eyes snapped open wide, “Legolas! I forgot all about him.”

Haldir grabbed her very naked form from running across the room. “Mina, do not love me and leave me. Give me a kiss, dearest.”

She leaned in, but made a face. “Nay, I do not want to kiss you after you have done that.”

He laughed softly, “We should talk of this Mina.” He said pulling her into his lap. “Did you like that Mina?”

Her face flushed, “Oh yes Haldir! Very much! It was wonderful. I would like to do that again very soon.”

He laughed again, “I will be more than happy to assist you any way that I can, my sweet.”

Her smile faded, “Haldir?”

“Yes?”

She looked down and bit her lip, “I…I thought…” She sighed, “Never mind. I must get ready to meet Legolas.”

She tried to stand, but he held her against him. She refused to look at him, her whole back flushed then. He released her then and allowed her to dress.

“We will discuss what has bothered you later. Be ready to speak of it.” His words were not unkind, but very gently spoken. She nodded, pulling the gossamer gown over her body and smoothing it with her hands. There was a soft tap at the door. Haldir went to answer it as she put on her matching slippers.

Mina could hear Anna’s soft voice as she brushed the last bit of tangles from her almost dried hair. Mina stepped into the sitting room and took Anna’s hand and off they went to greet the Prince of Mirkwood and his traveling entourage.


***


Orophin lead Legolas and the others into the audience chamber of the Lord and Lady of Lorien. Greetings had just been completed when the chamber door burst open and in strode a slight fair-haired elfin maid. Legolas beamed upon seeing his sister who was followed closely by Anna.

“Legolas! Brother!”

Legolas released Galadriel’s hand and turned just in time to catch his sister in his arms. He squeezed her tightly to him, not realizing how terribly he had missed her until she grunted from lack of air. He sat her down when he head several chuckles.

Orophin did not miss the look Alcazar gave Anna and had to control his own rage when he had the nerve to wink at her. She blushed and smiled, but looked down when she felt Orophin’s hard gaze upon her.

Legolas nodded in Galadriel’s and Celeborn’s direction as Mina practically dragged her brother out of the chamber and began to babble on about what she had been doing these last few months. Aragorn and Alcazar followed silently behind.

Orophin gripped Anna’s wrist rather tightly as he lead her out following Aragorn. Anna glanced at Orophin from the corner of her eye, once again he reminded her very much of Haldir. His jaw was tight and his eyes a bore holes into Alcazabackback.

Once back to March Warden’s talan, ir hir had to move several pieces of furniture around to accommodate everyone. His talan was larger than most, a divulgence he enjoyed due to his high status among his people. Mina moved everyone into the sitting room for more comfort.

Legolas was pleased with the changes he saw in his sister. He thought her lovely in the silver gossamer gown she wore and was impressed to learn she had sewn it for herself. Her hair had gotten longer and she braided it in the style of the she-elves of the golden wood. The she-elves of Mirkwood wore their hair freely down their back with no braids. He noticed her playful manner with Haldir. It was obvious she was not frightened of him anymore and he was most pleased to see her steal a quick kiss from him when she entered the kitchen.

Haldir poured everyone goblets of wine and everyone made himself or herself merry as Mina and Anna finished preparing the meal. Rumil and Camilla arrived then bearing even more wine. Mina surprised even Haldir with the extravagance of the food she had prepared. It was a spicy dish, a culinary favorite among nomadic gypsies. The meat consisted of veal and the sauce was rich and spicy. Cloves, ginger, red wine, and barley were used to make the sauce. Fresh summer salad with a fruit vinegerete was served along with warm bread, and fruit pies for desert.

After all had their fill, various conversations were taking place across the room. Aragorn, Haldir, and Alcazar stood on the veranda, smoking pipes and speaking of old conflicts. Rumil sat with Camilla, Orophin and Anna, while Mina sat with her brother.

“You are a different maid, sister. You are quite the independent Lady now.”

She smiled widely at his compliment. “I have had so much fun here Legolas! I am so glad father made me come. I was wrong to dread it so.”

“Truly? I was worried for you sistYou You looked so lost the day you left our lands.”

Mina sighed, “I was afraid at first. It was a difficult journey. I had never traveled so far a distance. You were right to not let me ride with you Legolas. I barely made it to Caras Galadhon; I cannot imagine travel to the White City.”

Legolas could not believe how she had matured in such a short time.

“I was very lonely at first, even with Anna here. I did not want to leave father, but I made friends quickly and have gotten to try new things. I know I’ve been so horrid to the servants at home sometimes. I did not realize what a brat I had been. Why did you not tell me brother?”

He laughed, “And risk your sharp tongue my dear sister. Nay! Twas not worth the heartache! Besides, the blame for your childish ways is not to be laid at your feet alone. Father and I have had much to do with it.”

Legolas took her hand in his, “You are happy here? Truly sister, you have accepted Haldir?”

She smiled, “I am truly happy brother. Do not fuss so over me! I have accepted the March Warden. I love him and I cannot imagine my life without him now.”

“Then father’s dream was true. I am glad. I must admit we were both a bit peeked by it, but it has been a blessing for you.” He kissed her forehead, “Then I am happy too!”

She began to speak when she remembered his gift. “Oh! I almost forgot! I have something for you!”

She jumped to her feet and disappeared into the bedroom. Haldir returned to the room when she saw her go. He wanted to see her face when she presented it to her brother. She had worked so hard to make it perfect for him. Aragorn and Alcazar followed Haldir back inside. Mina retuned with a large box and placed it on her brother’s lap.

“I have made you a gift brother. Something to keep you warm while you travel.”

Legolas raised a brow in question. She chewed on her bottom lip and bounced slightly on the balls of her feet. She had done this since childhood when she was excited or had a secret she wished to share. Legolas slowly opened the box. His eyes widened and his breath quickened when she saw the contents. He stood and pulled the crimson cloak free from the box.

The sharp intakes of breath rounded the room. Legolas stared at it, wide eyed and mouth open in shock at its beauty and exquisiteness. He slowly fingered the gold embroidery and slid the soft velvet between his fingers. His eyes wenther her sister who smiled brightly at him.

“It…it is stunning. Wilamina, you made this, by hand?”

She nodded, “Aye. It took me almost three months, but I made it by myself.”

“It is the loveliest cloak I have ever seen. I shall cherish it always! Thank you so much.” He flung the cloak around his body and fastened it tightly at the neck. He embraced her to him, hugging her tightly and favoring her with kisses on the top of her head. When he released her, she grabbed his hand.

“Come and see the quiver I am making for ada!”

Legolas smiled as she led him into the bedroom. She had not called their father ada since their mother had passed.

Aragorn shook his head, “I cannot believe that is the same little maid you had thrown over your shoulder so few months ago in Mirkwood.”

Haldir nodded, “Aye. She is much changed, but not so much that her delightful little habits have disappeared completely.”

“I hear the maid is using a bow now.”

Haldir nodded, “I would not have it so Alcazar, but I was not here when she began learning the skill. But I believe it has done much for her self confidence.”

“Her father will not be pleased about it. He thinks such things beneath his daughter. I sometimes think he believes her too delicate.”

“She is stronger than he thinks Aragorn. She is stronger than I ever believed.”

Haldir turned and looked at Aragorn suddenly, “Did Orophin inform Legolas of his sister’s living arrangements?”

Aragorn looked at Alcazar, “I cannot remember it being spoken of.”

Haldir nodded and looked pained a moment. Aragorn and Alcazar suddenly burst into laughter. Aragorn’s hand went to Haldir's shoulder, “I take it the Princess is your house guest?”

Haldir grinned sheepishly, “Aye. And has been ever since she stepped foot in Caras Galadhon.”


***


The guests of the King and Queen of the Golden Wood were given guest rooms within the talan palace. Legolas had been most distressed to discover Mina would be staying with Haldir and had been staying with Haldir. He did not voice his feelings on the matter because he did not want to upset his sister and ruin the moment of the gift she had given him. He decided he would discuss it with her the following day. He had agreed to come to the archery range and watch her use a bow. This was something else he meant to discuss with her, but it would wait. He was too exhausted by travel at any rate.

***

Anna and Orophin walked back to their talan silently. Orophin had not said much the entire evening. She could tell he had been upset about something, but surely not the smile she had been given by Alcazar. Upon entering their talan, Orophin turned to look at her. His expression was hard and his thinned lips told her he was angry.

“You are mine, Anna! I forbid you to be alone with Alcazar. He seeks to try and woo you from me.”

Anna blinked, shocked at his tone and his words. His words also made her angry. He had never spoken to her in such a way before.

Anna’s eyes narrowed, “You have no right to forbid me from speaking with anyone! I chose my own friends Orophin of Lorien!”

“I have every right to command what is mine! And I will make it permanent when the winter comes. You will marry me Anna. You will not refuse me! I won’t have it.”

Anna stared at him as a whirlwind of emotions coursed through her. He wanted to bind to her? So he must love her, yet he had never said the words to her. Was she only a conquest to him? What had brought about this change? Petty jealousy? No, it had to be more than that.

“You wish to marry me? Why have you not spoken of it before? Is it only because Alcazar is here? I will not be conquest Orophin!”

In the blink of an eye, he reached out and snatched her to him, “Have I ever treated you as a conquest? Are you so blind you do not see how I feel aboou? ou? You are the very air I breathe Anna. You belong to me! I will not let you go, nor will I share your affections with some riff raff from Rivendell! Do you understand me Anna? You are mine!”

She was torn between crying tears of joy, throwing her arms around him and throttling him for speaking to her in such a way. Her facial expression caused him to see his harshness and he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her forehead.

“Forgive me my anger Anna. I am a jealous elf. I cannot bear to not have you as my own. When I saw him looking at you in such a way…I could not bear to lose another….” He stopped as his voice chocked with emotion.

Anna looked up at him, “What do you mean Orophin? Lose another what? Lose me? You will not lose me.”

Orophin stroked her hair as he tried to find the words. He had never spoken of it since it had happened. And now that Lea was back….it was obvious Mina was in danger, but what about Anna?

“I think it is time I told you why I was Mina’s shadow whilst spenspent her days with Lea and the reason behind Haldir’s anger the day he came home from the borders.”