Arlothiyenne: A Tale of Destiny

Chapter Four: Dinner, A Tale of a Life, Marchwarden's Outburst

 

Haldir stood outside the healing talan. His mind wrapped in thought on what had just happened. Noticing her through her clothing, and for the first time, feeling a flush to his senses. Why, he could not understand. She had only just returned and he barely knew her. He looked to the sentinels standing by the door, and continued to walk down the stair and to his talan.

 

His thoughts now, were beginning to run with him. Her face and sudden realizations about her physical appearance burned into his memory. Seeing her in that state, stirred him deeply and it bothered him in a way that he never expected. When with her, he only saw her as the child she once was, but now, more so than that. Why? Thinking of her as a child, was all he wanted to do, but in a glance that changed.

 

He recalled the last thing he told her all those years ago, but she was just an elfling then. Then his feelings were of adoration and the love for a child. But now, her here fully gone, she was not the same. He needed answers for this newfound revelation and needed it quickly.

 

Entering his talan, he quickly bathed and donned a new set of warden's clothing and left the talan. His steps quickening as he reached the guest talan to meet with the lord and lady. The sentinel bowed to him. “Please announce me.” Haldir told the elf.

 

The sentinel entered and returned shortly after. He opened the door and motioned for Haldir to enter. Haldir began feeling the butterflies fluttering in his stomach. Was he nervous? He thought. Yes. The Lord and Lady sat at a small table for two, drinking their tea. Galadriel stilled as she saw him, reading his thoughts. Haldir looked away from her almost embarrassed to look. Celeborn stood and walked over to him, taking his arm in a firm elven handshake. “Haldir, come and sit.” he bid him. Haldir took a seat not far from them, and waited to be spoken to. Celeborn sat back down and looked at him, concerned. “My foster son, it is a surprise to see you here. Is there something amiss?”

 

Haldir did not know how to act or speak, for the first time in his nearly three thousand year life. Still not able to look at the lady, only looked to his Lord. No words coming forth. His gaze shifted when the Lady spoke.

"His heart is in turmoil, my love. Troubled even by new feelings he cannot understand. Is that right, Haldir?' she asked him already knowing.

 

Celeborn looked to her then back at Haldir. “Haldir. Is what my love said true?” he asked furling a brow in question.

 

Haldir could not speak but nodded his reply. “Aye.” he finally choked out.

 

“Haldir, do these feelings reflect a return of a certain young female thought to be lost forever?” he questioned.

 

Haldir looked at him and nodded again. “It does. Do not get me mistaken, I have forever glad she has return, it is just-”he stopped almost afraid to go on.

 

“Haldir, you must tell us, what you want to know. We will help you understand the best we can. Now please, spill it.” The lady warmly urged him.

 

"As you already know, My Lady, for many months prior to her arrival, I had been plagued by dreams. Of her. Why did she come to me that way?” he stopped but not for long, “Why is it that the feelings I had for her when she was so young, not the same anymore? Why I am noticing little things about her appearance, or staring at her all the time?” he could not stop the questions, they kept coming now. “Why is it that when I do look at her, all I want to do is protect her, shield her, and hold her close? Please tell me. Why is it that instead of total joy of her being home residing in my heart, my heart is troubled?” He was feeling perplexed now. Almost feral in the need to know.

 

The Lady smiled gently. “Haldir, you know that time changes ones heart. Look at who you were before she first came here all those years ago, and what you were during her time here. Your mixed feelings are normal, for one who sees his one true mate after years of absence. As an elfling, you held her heart, and she knew it even then. You, on the other hand, did not see her that way, for you were much older. The connection with her, was fated by the Valar, long before she came here. Her absence, though hard on all of us, was hardest on you. Did you ever wonder why, you adored her so much, even then?” the lady stood up and walked over to him. Kneeling down in front of him, she looked like a mother comforting a child. “You stare at her because, though in your heart you hoped she would return, your mind had actually given up on hoping. You stare because, your heart is overjoyed and your mind is stunned. Though she is changed, older, wiser now, she is still the same sweet and loving young girl she once was. You predicted to her, that she would be more beautiful, and it is so. It is only natural to feel an attraction with her.”

 

“Why me?” he asked looking down at her.

 

She smiled at him warmly, reaching out she lovingly took his hands in hers. “Pen nath, you are meant for her, and she for you. That is your connection. Your strength is her strength, your heart is her heart. Without you, she will not be able to go on. She feeds off you, in every way. It is why the Valar chose you for this. You must be strong, Haldir, if not for yourself, but for her. In the coming weeks, she will need you more than ever.” the lady stood and looked down at him. “Haldir, I will tell you this, during her time away, it was you she missed the most, craved to see. It was you that gave her the strength to make that journey.”

 

Haldir did not know what to say, to what he had just heard. He and Arlothiyenne, meant for each other? He could not believe it. This was a girl to whom he adored all those years ago, and it was hard to see her as more than just that. But that afternoon, seeing her there, in that thin gown, the light behind her, her curves, her body's outline. It sent his mind to other ways. He looked up at the Lady and then to Celeborn. Two more questions loomed. “How can I be strong, when one moment I look at her, I go weak in my thoughts, my strength? And the next moment, all I want to do is take her pain, protect her, shield her

 

Celeborn smiled at him. “Haldir, when one is in the presence of their one true mate, it is natural for them to feel weak and protective. How you feel for her, is normal. How you feel for her, will guide you. Your feelings will be the strength she needs. If anything, the weakness you feel and the protectiveness, is all she needs. Arlothiyenne trusts you Haldir, you and your brothers. That is a bond within itself to help her through the task ahead of her. You love her Haldir, always have, even though she was just an elfling then, you still were drawn to her, and she to you. Worry not, allow this to take its time. There is no need to rush, what is already there. Let it grow.” Celeborn stood and came to place a comforting hand on his shoulder.

 

Galadriel looked at Haldir, who was clearly still in awe of what he had just been told, unbelieving even. His face relaxed a little, but she could still feel the turmoil. “Haldir,” her voice came out strong, low for a warning tone, “I will add. Celeborn is right, there is no need to rush this. I want to say only one word of warning. Though you feel for our adopted daughter, she must remain pure, untouched. The task ahead of her has to be done by one that is white as snow in her mind, body, and soul. You cannot consummate your love for her. I know that it is the farthest from your mind at this moment, but I feel the need to say it.”

 

Haldir nodded, understanding a little of what they had said. So quickly did this realization happen, even for an elf, who usually feels things so much quicker than men. He stood and bowed to them both. “I understand, though I am still perplexed, I will take it in stride. Let it grow.”

 

Celeborn nodded as his wife came to stand next to him. “Now, Haldir go. It is time to have dinner with my daughter. Send Rumil and Orophin word that it is time.” Haldir nodded again, and turn to leave the talan.

 

Celeborn and Galadriel stared at Haldir's leaving form. Both rulers feeling amazed at how he had acted. Galadriel did not react, but Celeborn did. “Well, that is something. You predicted it would happen, knew beyond a shadow of doubt even, though I believed you, I am still amazed. For many years, he pined for her, it was no secret, but here it is out in the open. Haldir is utterly smitten with our Little Arlo. Though I cannot help but feel a little upset by it.”

 

Galadriel looked at him a little taken aback by what he said. “My love, why upset? I mean, we both knew that those two were destined to be together. We knew that once she returned, she would be all grown up. Haldir did too, but did not expect this. He is heading into one of the greatest challenges of his life and you and I both know, he has never been one for patience. I find it humorous.” she said with a hint of a smile in her eyes.

 

“Ah, I know it. You were right, and I was hoping that we were both wrong.” he smiled slightly, “I, too, can see the irony in it. Our mighty Marchwarden smitten after all these years. Priceless. On the other hand, I still think it too soon for such a thing.”

 

“My Love, have you forgotten what it was like for us. One day you notice me, pursued me, the next, we were betrothed. Though not exactly like us, Haldir and Arlothiyenne has had two centuries apart to let it fester.” she cooed in his ear. He shuddered against the heat of her breath on his ear. Growling he took her fully in his arms and kissed her passionately. The kiss soon ended, breathless and heady, she looked him in the eyes. “ For many months, though Haldir does not yet know it, he has plagued her dreams. Once her mission is complete, she will be able to have a normal life, and she will choose him.” she stopped and reached out to straightened the top of his robes. “Now my love, let us prepare for dinner.” he kissed her nose and led her to their bed chamber to dress.

 

~*~*~*~

 

The handmaidens were just putting the finishing touches to Arlo's hair when the knock at the door came. The three ladies looked at each other and smiled. Arlothiyenne gave herself one last look in the mirror, for the first time in two centuries she looked like a true elven woman. She smiled at that. Arinel approached her with something in her hands. Arlothiyenne looked at the handmaiden's hand. “What is that?' she inquired. “My medallion. Where-” she stopped in thought, having almost forgotten that Haldir mentioned they found it and had given it to her parents.

 

"The Lady had it. Haldir had given it to her the night she and Lord Celeborn had arrived, after your attack. Here let me help you put it back on," Arinel took the medallion, and unclasped the clasp to help her put it on.

 

"That is right. Haldir mentioned that he had given it to them when they came.” she turned and held her long hair up so the girl could put the medallion around her neck. A second knock on the door sounded, this time louder. Lucinda went to open the door.

 

Arlothiyenne stood staring at her reflection one last time, but her breath caught when she saw who entered the talan. It was Haldir. He had cleaned up very well, wearing a fresh gray warden's uniform and black leggings. His hair was still slightly wet indicating that it had been recently washed it and re-braided it neatly into the traditional warrior braids. His eyes were a like blue crystals. He looked so handsome as he smiled at her. His features looked refreshed like a great weight had been lifted.

 

"Mae govanen, Haldir. My, you look quite handsome this evening," her voice spoke her approval. He smiled then nodded.

 

"Arlothiyenne, you look beautiful. That gown, brings out the color of you eyes well..” His eyes slowly took in her appearance, she could tell he approved of the gown. “If you are ready, I will escort you now .” She felt herself blush at the comment. He extended his arm for her to take. Walking over to him, she laced her arms with his. They walked out of the talan, into the cool breeze of the evening. Haldir led her carefully down the stairs, once there he stopped and looked at her.

 

Something was on his mind, and she sensed it. He continued to lead her to the Royal tent for the dinner. That same feeling stayed, she was convinced he was bothered by something. Silence ensued, and she could stand it no longer.

 

"Haldir, I sense something is wrong, what is it?” her eyes set on his face watching to see his expression.

 

He looked at her curious, and tilted his head to study her. “Nothing, Arlo, why do you ask that?” he sounded unaware.

 

"You seem preoccupied with your thoughts. I sense a great turmoil in your heart," she said observation. Thinking it must be about her, she asked," Are you not glad of my return?"

 

Haldir clearly did not like the question, and stopped dead in his tracks looking at her shocked. His voice matched that shock, “Of course I am glad you have returned. We all missed you. How could you think, I could not be glad?”

 

"Tonight you seem so troubled and you will not tell me what is wrong. I hate not knowing, I could help you if you would only ask it.” she said sadly smiling, wishing she could help ease his troubled mind.

 

Haldir understood her want to help, to ease whatever may be bothering him. He knew what it was, and was not ready to reveal it. He sighed, he owed her something at least to ease her, “It is not you, it is me. So many things have happened lately. The miracle of your arrival, the looming shadows slowly spreading across the lands, just things like that. But I want you to know, that I am happy you have come home. For so long, the hope I held that you were alive, was put to the test. Knowing that you are home, and safe, makes my heart sing. Never, ever think, that having you home would trouble me.” He scolded her lightly shaking a finger at her. She smiled at his scolding seeing humor in it. But her humor ended.

 

“I am sorry Haldir, if I offended you. I do not know what came over me, I feel a little fatigued is all. Forgive me?' she asked squeezing his arm.

 

"Of course, lirimear. All is forgotten. Now let us enjoy the evening and catch up on old times?" he gave her a wide smile and leaned and kissed her forehead. She reveled in the feeling of his lips touching her skin. The power, the strength he had, filled her senses once more.

 

~*~*~*~

 

Arriving at the royal tents, Haldir and Arlothiyenne stopped and spoke to the sentinels, who knew of their coming and allowed the two to enter immediately. Entering the tent was like entering another world. It was warm, with candles lit on each of the four corners, a lantern hung above the table. On one end was a small seating area that had been set up for them to sit and talk once the meal was done. Flowers laid out on the small tables and in the center of the dinner table. It was heavenly, one would not think it a tent, if they had not really looked at it.

 

Galadriel and Celeborn stood in unison, smiling at them. Leaving Haldir's side, Arlothiyenne held out her arms to embrace Celeborn first. “Ah, my little Arlo, how fare you sweeting?” glad to see her and pulling her in for a tight embrace.

 

gI am fine, Ada. Tired, a little sore, but not much by morning there will be no signs of my injuries I feel. I fully intend to cause all the craziness you can handle, once we reach home.” she said innocently.

 

Celeborn laughed out loud. “And I will welcome it gladly. So much we must catch up on.” he kissed her cheek. Taking her hand he led her over to Galadriel, she embraced her.

 

gNana, you look beautiful this evening” Arlothiyenne smiled at her mother, who only stroked her hair.

 

gAh, nonsense. Look at you, it is though you were never injured even now. How can this be?' she held her out at arms length and looked her over. “You say you are only a little sore?”

 

Arlothiyenne bit her bottom lip and nodded. “Assuredly, only a little sore. Earlier, I worked my magic and here I am standing before you now.” She held out her arms and turned from side to side.

 

Galadriel smiled warmly, her eyes all knowing. She knew what had happened, and knew that Arlothiyenne carried many things secret inside her. She embraced her again. “I am glad to see you stronger.” She looked to Haldir, “Haldir, where are your brothers? They are late.”

 

gI sent-” was all he got out when he was interrupted.

 

gWe are here, my lady. Sorry for the delay.” Orophin said smiling at her.

 

The lady cocked a curious brow. “I see that, but what was so important, that you could not arrive on time. HMM?” Her tone came out suggesting.

 

Rumil smiled whimsically. Like a cat who caught a mouse. “My Lady, I am sorry to say, but as of late, our dear eldest brother has been preoccupied with other things. We have been doing his rounds so that he could remain behind to help out here. Forgive our lateness.”

 

The lady looked at Celeborn who nodded, looking back at the brothers she shook her head. Rumil, the most whimsical of the three always had a way with words. She smiled and then waved for them all to be seated. Celeborn took Arlothiyenne by the arm and guided her to her chair which happened to be on his right side. As the Lord seated Arlothiyenne, Rumil and Orophin each kissed her brow before taking their appointed seats.

 

The table was set for six. Celeborn sat at one end with Arlothiyenne on his right, Haldir on his left across from her. Rumil took his seat on Arlothiyenne's right, while Orophin sitting next to Haldir. The lady made the other end. They sat and soon the food was brought.

Dinner was quiet, very warm. Arlothiyenne did not realize until now, how much she missed this. Over the years in Evindale, family meals became like firing ranges between the members of her foster father's family members. Not pleasant, or chaotic, little annoying, but the family did have a great love for one another.

 

Conversations, led from things she used to do as a child, which by the way, seemed she was a holy terror. Of course, she did not think that she was, but laughed at it all anyway. Haldir was quiet and sat there across from her, staring and smiling lightly from time to time, causing her to blush many shades of red. Soon the time came for the question she had been carefully preparing for for many months. But who it came from, she did not expect. Haldir.

 

Haldir sat there, goblet to his mouth, sipping his wine. Before he sat it down, he looked over to Arlothiyenne. “Tell us Arlo, what have you been doing since your departure so long ago? I trust you have been well.” Hearing the Marchwarden ask it, the Lord and Lady looked at him disapproving.

 

Celeborn, obviously annoyed, set down his own goblet and spoke directly to Haldir. “Haldir, please. Not now, she has only just started to recover, let her rest before asking such things.” His annoyance was quite clear, Arlothiyenne reached out and touched his arm.

 

gAda, it is perfectly alright. I had suspected this subject would come. I do not mind to speak of it.” she assured him.

 

gSweetling,” he started to protest but was cutoff by Galadriel.

 

gMy love, if she feels up to it, then allow her. I admit I am a little curious about it myself.” She looked at Arlothiyenne, then to Celeborn, who knew he was beat, he nodded. Galadriel looked at her daughter, “Go on, little one. Tell us of your life away from us.”

 

Arlothiyenne sipped her wine and thought on the words. Looking at each of them with her, all of them waiting for what she had to say. “Where do I begin?”stopping she looked back at Celeborn, “Perhaps it is best you tell me, first what you know and I will start where you leave off. I am not a very good story teller.”

 

Celeborn sat back in his chair, looking at his young daughter. “Alright.” he stopped then sat forward placing his elbows on the table. “For many months, after your departure, we heard nothing, until a courier from Rohan arrived. Myself, your naneth, and Haldir were gathered in the main hall of the palace conversing on matters of the fences. We asked the warden, who had brought the courier from the border what the man wanted, we would told he had news. We sent the warden to fetch the courier. He told us that an elven party had been traveling in their lands two weeks prior and was attacked on the plains. When asked what became of you and your naneth, the man told us that none was left alive and that there was no child found. A massive search was rallied by King Fengel* that yielded no result. For a week after the attack they look and then sent the courier to Lothlorien. When the courier was asked how he knew to come here, he told us that an elven warrior by the name Elwain told them that he was a guardian of Lothlorien and that the family in the traveling party was kin to me and my wife.” Celeborn stood and turned away from them a moment but turned back to face them. “Elwain died shortly after his arrival in Edoras. Hearing the news of your parents demise and your disappearance was both devastating and hopeful. Devastating in the loss, and hopeful that you had survived. We launched our own investigation into your whereabouts, with Haldir, Rumil and Orophin leading the search parties, but they too, found nothing of you. For so long afterward, you weighed heavily on our minds. Though your nana, had feelings you were alive and well.”

 

He stopped and looked down upon her, Arlothiyenne sensed the pain they had went through. She felt bad for not getting word to them, but that was something that could not be helped now. Taping her finger to her bottom lip she thought on how to proceed.

 

gMy naneth always told me that her and my adar's time was limited, but I did not fully understand what she meant by that, until we were attacked. We traveled a distance from Lorien to the city of Ithilien then back up to near Dol Guldor, Adar wanted to see it. We came to a small village not far from the Anduin River where we stayed until the snow dissipated. The morning of the attack, naneth and I began to have bad feelings of doom and danger, so the guards were put on alert. It was uneventful at first but by midday, we began to feel as though we were being tracked. The fog had risen mysteriously, and blinded all there. Out of that fog came the first of the beast. My naneth told me to run, hide, never look back. So I did as I was told. Naneth had sword and stayed to fight. I ran fast and hard for several minutes finding an large boulder coming out of the ground that had an outcrop that was laid close to the ground, hidden by bushes. It was perfect, downwind from the orcs so they could not smell me and would over look me if they came looking. The small cavern was big enough for two large men. I hid there for what seemed many hours. I heard the fighting, the sounds of metal clanking, the cries of those fighting. But the one I still hear to this day, more than any other, was that of my mother. Shrieking and calling out my name, then silence.” Arlothiyenne stopped as a tear formed, wiping it away quickly, she continued. “After the final cry of my mother, all was silenced. I felt for the first time, completely alone, and fearful. All the things I had read about survival, from the books here in your libraries, came to my mind.”

 

She stopped, looked at all in the room, they stared at her with eyes of interests. “Sometime, I am not sure how long, one of the guards, came half crawling, half walking toward the boulder, I saw him. He was bloody, messy, injured far more than I had ever seen. He called out my name. I revealed myself to him. I hardly recognized him at first, but soon found that it was Halin, the captain of the guards. I led him into the cavern and tried to help stop the bleeding. He knew he was dying and began to tell me that another warrior had survived the attack and was on his way to Edoras for help. I did what I could for him, but he died a few short hours later.” she stopped a moment, “I knew that we were at least a half days ride from Edoras, but it was not safe for me to remain where I was. I had to ask myself, what if the orcs came back? I had to leave before help could arrive, then yet would the warrior even make it to the City. So I made the decision to go, and hope for the best.”

 

gWhat happened next?” Rumil asked thoroughly intrigued in the story.

 

gAfter I gathered my nerves, I went back to the site of the battle. I found my parents, or what was left of them, and searched for things to survive. I found his twin daggers, map, and extra cloak and left. I did not look back. The area I was in was part of the Westfold, not far from Fangorn, actually you could see it in the far distance. Knowing that my father wanted to travel to The Shire, I traveled through the Gap of Rohan. For two days I walked and walked.” she stopped again to take a sip of wine. “On the morning of the third day, a band of gypsies came by. Seeing them, I was fearful cause I did not know if they were kind, or if they would sell me.”she was interrupted by Orophin.

 

gGypsies? What happened with that? How did you keep them from selling you?' he asked looking concerned.

 

gI took measures to hide my heritage. I covered my ears, never taking off my cloak's hood, I stayed to myself, once I approached them. I spoke only the common tongue, so they suspected nothing. But at times while with them, I had the feeling they knew, but did not care. The gypsy king treated me like a daughter, so as for them selling me, No.. they would not have. We traveled the foot of the Misty Mountain, making our way to The Shire, stopping off at Bree. I decided to stay there. It was a kind place, people were helpful and concerned. I found a small position at an inn named the Fire Dragon. While there, I met a man, Lord Fernando. He was a good man, nearly fifty when I met him. He said he was a widower, with no children. He offered to take me to his land and take care of me. He was a Lord of a small place called Evindale, near the Ice Bay of Ferochel. They traded amongst the peoples of the North, traveled to distant lands. He asked me where I came from, but I fibbed and told him I did not remember, he asked no more questions. I agreed to go with him, becoming his foster daughter and was treated as a lady in his house.”

 

gEvindale? I have heard of it, but never heard of Lord Fernando. The people there from what I know, are noble, kind and peaceful. I trust they treated you well.” Celeborn said hoping.

 

gOh yes, as I said, like a lady. I had the best teachers, fine clothes, I was well liked. The only things about the people there, they looked down on women who wielded weapons, so I gave it up. Actually, I was asked when I showed interest in training for the guards.” She looked at each there again, Haldir sat silent, like a cat waiting for something.

 

gDid Lord Fernando ever figure out about your heritage?' Rumil asked.

 

gYes. Many years later, he wound up taking his two nephews in and raising them. They were much younger than me, and since Lord Fernando did not have heirs, the nephews were to inherit everything. When I met him, he was in his prime, by the time the two rascals came along he was nearing seventy. Their parents had died so he was the only family they had left. I did not know it, but he had suspected I was one of the eldar almost from the first moment he met me. But he did not care, to him I was child in need of care. After dinner one evening, he spoke to me privately, and asked me fully if I remembered where I came from. I was stunned by his asking after all that time, and wary of telling him, not being able to trust him fully. But seeing how much he had taken care of me, I realized I could trust no one else with my secret. So I told him. He was not surprised in the least. Apparently, he noticed that I did not age like other children, that I looked younger than the other children. After learning all from me about who I was, about my destiny, about my people and where I was from, he took great measures to keep me safe. I am grateful to him and his family.” Arlothiyenne looked up proudly.

 

gWhat of you powers, dear? Did any develop?' Galadriel asked taking a bite of food.

 

gNo. They did not, but only a couple times did something surface, but usually only once then went away. It was not until, I began to hear the forest and you nana calling me home did anything come to light. Mostly visions, feelings, and warming sensations. As I got closer to home did those began to arise more.” She looked around at them all again. Haldir's demeanor began to change, she could sense that he was troubled by something.

 

gTell us, Arlo, did Lord Fernando try and get you to come home?” he asked, his lips twitched in slight irritation.

 

 

"Yes, he spoke to me about it quite frequently over the years but I refused telling him that my destiny in life required me to learn in travels. At that he made it a point to send me on missions by sea and on land, he aided me in that way. Fernando was a hundred years old when he died and his youngest nephew took over his Lordship and his children took on the role. They all knew of my immortality, never looking at me differently. When my senses started to get a little stronger, I started to hear your calls, Nana, and have dreams of the woods, I knew it was time to come home. To finish what was started many years ago. I told Lord Hanaway, Lord Fernando's great-great grandnephew, that it was time for me to leave and return to my people. He asked no questions and sent a company of seventy men with me, to see me home safely. We were attacked on the Northeastern plains twice, the second of which I was ordered by the commander of my company to run.”

 

Rumil looked at her sadly. “Your party, yes, we found them. I am sure Haldir has told you about them. We buried them and sang a lament for them all while you were unconscious.”

 

Arlothiyenne did know and a tear slowly slid down her cheek. “He did tell me.” She looked around the table, the sadness could be seen behind their eyes, but Haldir's read something completely different. Anger, irritation, maybe even hurt. His feelings were different than the others. Arlothiyenne's gaze fell on him. He could not look at her. He was clearly upset, she could sense it.

 

Celeborn saw what was going on, but looked at his daughter. “There is a company of elves heading northward toward The Shire in a few days to the village of Bree. I shall send word to Lord Hanaway of your safe return and to thank him for your good treatment during your time there. He needs to be informed of what happened to his people." Arlothiyenne smiled and spoke softly a word of thank you.

 

Before Arlothiyenne could speak anymore, Haldir's voice boomed out. “What I want to know is, why did you not send word of your whereabouts?” His voice was laced full of venom.

 

Startled by his brash words, she immediately went in defensive mode, “"You know my destiny. I could not contact you, I was protecting my people, my purpose. I assumed that Nana could see me in the mirror. I meant no harm, really," Arlo said defensively. Her answer did not appease him.

 

"Yet you put us through centuries of agony, not knowing where you were,or even if you were alive. How could you? We all love you, care about you," his voice was loud enough that anyone passing by outside the tent, could hear exactly what was said. He stared at her with eyes that could burn stone.

 

Arlothiyenne felt his words loud and clear. She looked at him pleadingly. “I am sorry, forgive me. But I only did what I had to do. Please-” Haldir held a hand up. Arlothiyenne began to tear up. “Does it not matter that I am home now?” it was more of a sob. Rumil sitting next to Arlothiyenne, wrapped his arms around her shoulders and rubbed her back. Galadriel sat there looking quite angry by Haldir's anger. Orophin stared at his eldest brother clearly appalled by his behavior.

 

gAll I want to know is why?” His voice showing still with venom, malcontent.

 

Having heard enough, and pained by seeing his daughter being forced to tears, Celeborn's head snapped to face Haldir. “That. Is. Enough! Haldir! You are upsetting her! I will not hear it any longer!” Celeborn pushed his chair back and stood towering over his Marchwarden. Haldir knew he had done wrong, to see his Lord's wrath was something he had never desired to see. His questioning had come out all wrong and he regretted it immediately. He stared at his cup for a moment, but snapped out of his gaze when Celeborn spoke. “Leave! Leave now, Haldir, before I do something we will both regret!” he pointed to the tent's opening.

 

Standing Haldir looked from person to person, his gaze falling on Arlothiyenne. She sat there with her mother stroking her hair and his baby brother shushing and consoling her. Seeing her tears, pained even him, his soul now burned with the image. He left the tent, his thoughts on only Arlothiyenne, what he had learned this evening. It did not seem right why she never contacted them. Why had she not? Hurt his soul. Why did he have to hurt her? His little Arlo, the one he had hoped would return, missed terribly. He loved her, worried for her, Why did he have to run his big mouth? He quickly made his way to his talan to be alone, to think on his actions and figure a way to fix what he had just done.

 

 

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N/A: Sorry so Long guys..Re-vamping is quite an ardent task when striving to make a story better. A few things to point out.

 

*King Fengel- King of Rohan. According to my research, if it is correct this is King Theoden's great--great grandfather.

Inn of the Fire Dragon: Inn of my own making..No it is not the Prancing Pony...in my mind it is located clear on opposite side of Bree.

 

Evindale-is an imaginary place I have created as is their lords and the tales of. No bases to Middle Earth.

 

NEXT UP....Chapter Five: Regrets, Departure, Reconciliation, The Beginning.

 

 

Pronunciation:

Arlothiyenne: (Ar-Low-thee-yen)

Elwain: (El-wayne)

Halin: (Hal-en)

Fengel: (Fen-gell)

Fernando: (Fer-nan-doe)

Hanaway: (Han-ah-wey)