Chapter 7: Dreams and Desires
"Rúmil! Sit still, you're upsetting your horse!"

"Let him be, Haldir. He's not doing anyone any harm."

"You're no better, Orophin."

"What's that supposed to mean?!"

"Last night you were giggling like some maid on her wedding night!"

"Now you're the one upsetting the horses, Haldir!"

Celeborn chuckled as he listened to the brothers banter amongst themselves, completely oblivious to the giggles and snickers the rest of the riding party from Lórien was throwing their way. It had been nearly a month since Galadriel had ceased to feel Elrond's pain and turmoil over the departure of his wife, Celebrían. Something had put the Peredhel into good spirits of late, though the Lady of the Wood was unsure of the source. Thus, she had sent her husband and a small riding party to find out about the recent comings and goings in the valley.

"I wish you would stop teasing me, Haldir," Rúmil said with a pout. "It's been months since I've seen Lindir. Aren't I allowed a little bit of silliness on my part?"

"Not if your excitement is going to upset your steed and send him running for the woods," Haldir replied rather tartly. "After which we must chase both you and he before we can proceed with our journey."

"It's not as if I meant to go crashing into trees."

"Whatever the case may be, please refrain from doing so again, at least until we've reached Imladris."

"Oh please," Orophin said with a roll of the eyes. "Stop being so serious all the time, Haldir. Have a bit of fun now and again, will you?"

"I resent that."

"Really now? So just what is it you plan to do when we reach Imladris, hm? Go riding in the woods with the twins? Perhaps a swim in the Bruinen? Valar forbid you decide to lock yourself in the library with only Erestor for company."

At the mention of the chief advisor's name, Haldir's face took on an enticing shade of red that did not go unnoticed by his brothers or Celeborn. The cause of the March Warden's embarrassment was unknown to the Lord of Lórien, but Orophin and Rumil were perfectly aware of the reason. For months they had to listen to their dear siblings muttering in his sleep; Erestor's name was often spoken with a soft whisper during those nights. Celeborn, despite being oblivious to the matter, decided it was high time the brothers ceased their jesting.

"I suggest you three cease the teasing, for we are nearing the valley," the Lord said with a stern look. He paid no mind to the glance the eldest brother exchanged with the youngest as Haldir tried to control his embarrassment. Instead, Celeborn returned to watching the road, smiling as his ears caught the faint sounds of the Bruinen. A moment later the sounds of riders approaching was heard, causing the Lórien party to stop. Up ahead, the brush parted as three riders appeared. Celeborn instantly recognized the two dark-haired elves as the twins; he was, however, unfamiliar with their golden-haired companion.

"Ata'da!" Elladan exclaimed as he caught sight of his grandfather. Both he and Elrohir beamed as they urged their horses forward and embraced their grandfather as best they could on horseback.

"What are you doing here?" Elrohir asked. "There was no word from Lórien of your coming."

"I decided to surprise you," Celeborn replied with a smile. "I wanted to see how Elrond and my grandchildren are doing."

"We are all doing quite well," Elladan replied, returning the smile. "Ata'da, allow me to present to you Prince Legolas of Mirkwood."

At the mention of his name, Legolas moved closer to the party, bowing his head in acknowledgement. "'Tis a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lord Celeborn of Lórien."

"And yours, Prince Legolas. Tell me, what brings you to Imladris? Are you here alone?"

"Nay, I arrived nearly one month ago in the company of my father and brother and a small party from Mirkwood."

"A month, you say?" Celeborn turned to his grandsons for confirmation and received a beaming smile from Elladan in return. "That is news indeed. I have not seen King Thranduil since our youths in Doriath; I should very much like to see him again."

"And so you shall!" Elrohir said, turning on the path to head back to the manor. "Let us lead you the rest of the way. I'm sure Arwen and Ada will be thrilled to see you. Oh, and Rúmil," the youngest twin then turned to the youngest brother and gave a small wink, "there's someone who will be pleased to see you as well." Elrohir smiled at the weak blush Rúmil colored his cheeks before turning back to the path. A similar blush stained his own cheeks when Orophin drew up next to him, taking one of his hands and giving it a small squeeze. He could hear Haldir snorting in slight annoyance as the March Warden's elder brother leaned over to plant a light kiss upon Elrohir's cheek as they rode forth.

It did not take the party long to reach Imladris. At the entrance to the manor of the Lord, they were greeted by Elrond, Glorfindel and--much to Celeborn's surprise despite Legolas' previous news--Thranduil.

"Welcome Celeborn," Elrond greeted as the Lórien Lord dismounted, followed by the others. "'Tis good to see you visiting, though I must admit it is a surprise to see you here unannounced."

"Forgive me for not sending a message, Elrond," Celeborn replied. "But I was anxious to see how you were faring."

"I am well, as we all are. The house has been in chaos, but King Thranduil kindly traveled from Mirkwood to help straighten things out."

"'Tis good to hear, though I am rather surprised to find you here, Thranduil. When was the last time we spoke?"

At this the Mirkwood King gave a wistful smile as he stepped forward, his emerald green robes swaying slightly, to clasp Celeborn's hand. "I can't remember when, mellon, but it might have been when we were last in Doriath."

"A long time indeed."

Thranduil raised an eyebrow when he noticed Celeborn searching around for something. He tried to hide the amused smile creeping across his face but failed miserably. "And what," he said, addressing the silver-haired Lord, "is it you are looking for, exactly?"

"I was told you had traveled in the company of two of your children. I have met your youngest son." At this, Celeborn gestured back at Legolas, who was standing next to Elladan whilst the elder elves conversed. "Yet I do not see your other son."

"Ah, Arondil is at the training grounds this day with Lindir and some of the other patrol sentries." The Mirkwood King frowned slightly at the sharp inhalation he heard issued from one of the Galadhrim. Peering around Celeborn, he found a soft blush staining Rúmil's cheeks out of embarrassment whilst Haldir glared at his youngest brother. The frown deepened slightly when Thranduil turned back to Celeborn, who was laughing quietly to himself, joined by Elrond and Glorfindel.

"Aye, Rúmil," Celeborn said, turning to the younger elf. "You may go and see the minstrel." At this Rúmil beamed and with a bow to his Lord and a nod to his brothers darted off across the lawn in the direction of the training grounds with a wide grin plastered on his face.

"My Lord Thranduil," Glorfindel said, an amused smile upon his face. "I do believe you have just met who it is that holds Lindir's heart."

Elrond smiled in amusement as Thranduil's face registered his understanding, before the lord of the valley turned to address a figure moving behind him. "Erestor."

The advisor stopped in the corridor when Elrond called to him just as he was about to pass the gathered party. None except Orophin seemed to watch the stiffness that suddenly entered Haldir's form when the dark-haired councilor stepped closer to his Lord.

"Aye, my Lord?" Erestor said, bowing briefly to Celeborn.

"Would you kindly escort the Lórien party to their guest rooms?"

"Ada..." Elrohir made to interrupt but was promptly silenced by a wave of Elrond's hand.

"Except Orophin, that is," the Peredhel lord continued as if his son had never spoken. "I am sure he knows exactly where he will be staying."

At the subtle hint, the silver-haired elf in question beamed and gave a nod. "Aye, my Lord. I know where I will be during this visit." The smile that had graced Orophin's face widened at the rogue blush that appeared across his lover's face and the short snicker Elladan gave.

"Very well, my Lord," Erestor replied, looking in amusement at the two lovers before turning to Haldir and the others. "March Warden, if you and your men will kindly follow me."

"Aye, councilor," Haldir replied, pleased he was able to keep the small tremor out of his voice as he and his men followed the dark-haired elf, leaving behind the elven lords.

~~~~~~~~~~
"And this will be your room, March Warden." Erestor had spent the better part of an hour arranging rooms for the visiting Galadhrim, showing some of the newer members where everything was situated as some had never been to Imladris before. Once everyone was settled, all that was left was Haldir--and there was only one room remaining.

Haldir swallowed thickly as he suddenly realized how close his guest room was to the wing that contained Elrond, his family, his advisors, as well as the visiting Mirkwood royalty. "It seems a little far from the other guest rooms," he stated quietly.

"Aye, 'tis true," Erestor replied. "But it is the only remaining guest room available. We had not anticipated King Thranduil's arrival, nor that of Lord Celeborn. Your brothers will likely stay with their lovers, which is somewhat of a relief on my part as I would not have any rooms for them. Perhaps you would prefer to reside with one of your men during your stay here?"

The silver-haired March Warden pondered the thought for a moment. It certainly was a more appropriate solution than staying in the room that was being assigned to him. Haldir was more than certain that he would embarrass himself, considering his fondness, so to speak, for Erestor and the things he could get himself into during the night. But he ultimately decided against the idea in order not to insult the hospitality of his host. "Nay, these rooms will be fine. Thank you, Erestor. I think I will take some rest now after the journey."

Erestor nodded in understanding before gesturing down the hallway. "Elrohir's rooms are at the end of the corridor, should you need to find Orophin. And Lindir's are in the adjourning wing." He then pointed at the polished oak door that stood directly to his right. "These are my rooms; should you require anything, please don't hesitate to ask."

Discovering just how close Erestor's room were--right next door in fact--caused the blood to drain from Haldir's face and a lump to form in his throat. Swallowing thickly and quickly recomposing himself, he nodded to Erestor before pushing the door to his own room open. "Thank you, I will certainly ask if there is anything I require." He watched the councilor nod before proceeding down the corridor to attend to his other duties. Once he was gone, Haldir quickly shut the door and leaned heavily upon it, his breaths coming out in short pants.

/By the Valar, don't let me do anything stupid during this visit. Don't let my secret betray me. Don't let my dreams give me away. Erestor can't find out./ Steeling himself, Haldir took a long, slow, deep breath, gathered a few of his things and promptly headed to the baths in order to soothe his troubled mind and tired body.

---

Chapter 8: Old Pains
"Elrond? May we talk?"

At the question issued by his father-in-law, Elrond tilted his head in slight confusion. He had expected this conversation from the moment Celeborn had ridden up to the manor; he just hadn't expected them to speak on the matter so soon. "Would you not like to rest first?" Elrond suggested in an attempt to hold off the impending conversation a little longer. "The journey from Lórien must have exhausted you. 'Tis no short distance from the Golden Wood to this valley."

Celeborn merely shook his head. Instead he took hold of Elrond's arm and steering him towards the gardens, leaving Glorfindel to tend to the horses whilst Thranduil set off for the training grounds. He knew what Elrond was trying to do, but they had to speak now. "I must speak to you...about Celebrían." The silver lord inwardly cringed at the forlorn expression that haunted Elrond's eyes at the very mention of his daughter's name. "Please. 'Tis better--for both of us--if we discuss this now rather than later."

Reluctantly Elrond nodded his head, allowing Celeborn to steer him into the gardens and away from prying eyes and listening ears. For a time neither said anything as they wandered the grounds lost in their own thoughts. Celeborn never released the other's arm as they walked.

"I still miss her," Elrond eventually whispered. "The house seems empty without her presence, and the children miss having their mother despite their age. I know they try not to show their pain to help ease my own suffering, but I see it in their eyes. Every now and then they long for her patience and listening ear."

"We all miss her," Celeborn said gently.

"How do you cope, Celeborn?" Elrond turned to look at his father-in-law, trying to read the hazel eyes but failing to see into Celeborn's mind. "You and Galadriel. Surely things have not been easy for you. Celebrían was your own daughter, your only child. I...I cannot imagine the pain you must be in. I cannot begin to envision what life would be like without one of my children."

"Then do not try, for it is a difficult thing indeed." Celeborn stopped, releasing his hold on Elrond's arm only to re-establish it in the form of a warm hug. "We--Galadriel and I--go on knowing that Celebrían is alive, and that she must be well. What was done to her should have claimed her life, but surely the Blessed Land must have healed her wounds. We live knowing that she is well, though it will be long before we are able to see her again. The thought both saddens me and lightens my heart."

Elrond listened quietly to Celeborn's words, his head resting upon the silver lord's shoulder. Tears prickled at the corners of Elrond's eyes as memories assaulted him, memories of his sons bringing home a much changed Celebrían. "I will always miss her. But..."

"But love has found you again." Celeborn smiled when startled gray eyes gazed up at him. "Do not presume to think I am blind, Elrond. I know Thranduil loves you; that he has always loved you even through his own marriage. He loved his wife, yes, but a piece of his heart has always belonged to you. And I know you are beginning to grow accustomed to his presence, at times even craving it."

"How can I?" His voice sounded strange to his own ears, so lost and forlorn. Elrond looked at his father-in-law pleadingly, silently asking for council. "How can I feel this way so soon after she left? And you, how can you be so calm about it? You should forsake me, call me a disgrace. Anything but sound approving of the situation!"

"Is that what you really think?"

"I...I don't know. My marriage vows..."

"Have been absolved by Celebrían. She loves you, Elrond. I believe she will always love you. Which is why she freed you of your vows: to find love again and be happy. It will be long before you are able to see her again; too long to be in loneliness."

"But..."

"Nay, I will hear no protests. Your life has been riddled with tragedies, Elrond. Celebrían knows this, and set you free to be happy again. Do not forsake her gift to you. For if you do, I will truly call you a disgrace."

Elrond sighed in defeat, knowing the wisdom and reasoning behind Celeborn's words but finding them difficult to accept nonetheless. "I will try," he whispered.

"Try?"

"Try to be happy. For her sake."

"Do not only do it for her sake, Elrond. Do it for your children; they deserve to see their remaining parent in peace. Do it for yourself, for it is what you need."

The dark head nodded slowly whilst the gray eyes closed. Elrond willed himself to relax as he took comfort in Celeborn's warm embrace, allowing himself to be comforted and giving in to the silent support as he tried to sort out his feelings.

~~~~~~~~~~
"What troubles you, pen-neth?"

Elladan was startled out of his thoughts when addressed by the Mirkwood King. After his grandfather and father had left the party for a few moments to themselves, the twins had removed themselves and headed for the training grounds after Rúmil; Thranduil, Legolas, Orophin and a few of the Galadhrim had followed. The elder twin had watched the sparring matches that had taken place after pleasantries with a distant eye and half an ear. He was most surprised when it was Thranduil who brought him out of his thoughts.

"Nothing, Sire," Elladan replied in a quiet voice. "I just worry."

"For your father, perhaps?"

The young Peredhel allowed himself a brief smile. "Is there anything that escapes your attention, my Lord?"

"Hardly," Thranduil replied with a short laugh. "I have four children of my own, I will have you remember. Very little escapes my eye, even when the person I am observing is someone else's son. So tell me, then, what is it that troubles you about your father?"

Elladan briefly toyed with the idea of not confiding in the Mirkwood King. In the end, however, he thought better of it and decided to forge ahead, revealing his thoughts to the golden-haired lord. "I worry for his health, his happiness. His demeanor has improved much since your arrival, but I know he still battles with himself."

"You care a great deal about your father."

"I would imagine about as much as your own sons and daughter care about you, Sire."

Thranduil smiled proudly at Elladan's statement, nodding his head as he turned back to the spectacle of his sons sparring, their keen knives and sword flashing in the sunlight. "Aye, that they do. I am blessed to have such children, as is your father to have you and your siblings."

"I miss my mother," Elladan murmured, gazing down at the ground. "I remember her last words to Ada: to find love and happiness again. I want him to, and I know that he does as well. But I also know that he wars within himself on the matter, thinking he might betray her memory if he did so. Nana absolved their marriage vows, did you know that, my Lord?"

"I have heard. Your mother must have truly loved your father to do such a thing."

The Peredhel nodded, keeping his gaze trained on the ground. "I hope he will listen to her words and overcome his fears. Ada deserves to be happy."

"As do you, pen-neth."

Elladan lifted his eyes and gazed at the Mirkwood King in confusion, unable to decipher the brief smirk that passed across Thranduil's face. "What do you mean, my Lord?"

Thranduil knew; oh, did he know about the recent days his youngest son had spent with this twin. Thranduil was always concerned with the comings and goings of his family. He was forever watching whom they spent their time with; his sons and daughter were well past the age of finding eternal lovers. Thranduil was ever vigilant on the matter of them finding love where least expected, but he never pressed the idea upon them. Let them find love in their own way, at their own pace, he had always thought.

Since coming to Imladris, he had seen the way Legolas acted around Elladan and the response from the young Peredhel. Neither might have known it yet, but Thranduil knew. Love was budding between them; perhaps he could give it a subtle push in the right direction.

"Do not be so engrossed in your father's happiness that you let your own slip away," Thranduil counseled wisely. He turned, gesturing to where Elrohir and Orophin stood. The pair were whispering quietly to one another, hands clasped as they stood close. When they thought no one was looking, they would share a brief kiss before pretending that nothing had happened. "Take your brother, for instance. Do you not think he too worries for your father? I believe he does, but he has faith that Elrond will deal with his inner demons and pain. In the meantime, he does not allow his worries to impair the love he has found with the young Galadhrim."

Elladan listened quietly to Thranduil as the king spoke, whilst his gray eyes were fixed on the form of his brother and Orophin. The pair seemed happy together, and suddenly Elladan began to wonder if he would ever have that happiness. He wondered if he would ever have someone who loved him as much as Orophin loved his brother; someone he could love in return. So lost in thought was he that the elder twin nearly missed Thranduil's next words.

"Elladan? Take some advice from me."

With a nod of his head, Elladan indicated that he was listening. He brought his gaze up to meet Thranduil's sapphire orbs, waiting for the king to speak.

"Follow your heart, Elladan," Thranduil said in a soft whisper, words meant only for the twin's ears. "Listen to what it is saying and follow what it tells you. When you find what your heart most desires, don't give it up. Don't wait, thinking it's too soon, because once you do listen it will be too late. I waited too long, but I was lucky and was given a second chance to listen to what my heart was saying. You may not have that second chance."

"What do you mean?"

"You know what I mean, pen-neth. Your heart already sings, telling you what it wants. Listen to it, heed its words. Don't wait."

"King Thranduil..."

"Elladan?"

He turned at the sound of his name to find Legolas standing behind him. The prince had long shed his jerkin and now stood in his tunic. A light sheen of sweat covered his exposed skin, evidence of his just-finished sparring match against his brother. Elladan found the sight radiant and suddenly felt his chest constricting, flutters invading his stomach.

"Elladan, will you spar with me?" Legolas asked innocently, oblivious to the conversation the Peredhel had just had with his father.

Not knowing what to say, Elladan spared a glance back at Thranduil. The king merely smiled, nodding his head and making a small motion with his hand. With a nod in return, Elladan turned back to Legolas whilst reaching for his sword. "As you wish," he replied to Legolas' request. "But I warn you, I will not go easy on you."

"Then I am pleased, for I did not intend to be given any special treatment." With a brilliant smile, Legolas made for the area marked off as the sparring ring, unsheathing his two knives, which were tied to his thighs for ease of reach.

Thranduil watched Elladan go, the twin stretching his arms and swinging his sword in graceful arcs to warm up for the match to come. "Listen to the song, Elladan," the king whispered, whilst proudly watching his son and the elder twin bow and clasp hands before readying themselves. "Listen to the words and follow them."

---

Chapter 9: Apples, Cream and Bathwater

The smell of cinnamon and baking apples was the first thing Erestor noticed when he left his rooms the next morning. It was not so much the smell of baking that startled the advisor, for the kitchens of Imladris were always filled with the scents of pastries and desserts being made. It was the fact that the baking was occurring so early in the morning; the cooks rarely baked anything sweet for breakfast. The morning meal normally consisted of cheeses and fresh fruits, occasionally freshly baked breads when Elrond requested such. To Erestor's knowledge, there was no such request for this morn, and the cooks most certainly did not use cinnamon for baking bread.

Finding the scents both curious and inviting, Erestor made for the kitchens in order to investigate who was up and what they were doing. Expecting to find a maid or two present, or perhaps one of the cooks, the dark-haired elf was most unprepared for the sight of Haldir bustling about the kitchen. The silver-haired warden was dressed in a plain tunic and leggings of dark blue and black; a white apron completed the ensemble. The silver hair was braided and tied away from his face, hanging down his back in one thick plait almost to the hips. Haldir was busy at a counter, whipping something creamy in a bowl and completely oblivious to Erestor's presence. The advisor decided to remain silent whilst he watched Haldir cease whisking, dip a finger into the bowl and taste his work.

"More sugar," the warden whispered to himself before adding the proper amount of the white grains. Erestor was surprised once again when Haldir reached for the sugar correctly, bypassing the container of salt in his way.

/So he has experience in the culinary arts,/ Erestor thought to himself. /Who would have thought the arrogant March Warden of Lórien knew his way around a kitchen?/

He watched in amazement as Haldir finished with the bowl before moving to the hearth; the Lórien Elf paused long enough to grab something to protect his hand before retrieving a tray that had been baking over the fire. No less than a dozen small pastries, delicately shaped like mallorn leaves, steamed on the tray, giving off a delightful scent of cinnamon and spiced apples. Erestor continued to observe the other Elf whilst Haldir bustled about, cleaning up the utensils he had used and putting them away whilst the pastries cooled. The Lórien Elf was about to spread the cream over the pastries when Imladris' chief councilor decided to finally speak.

"I'm astonished you know your way so well around the kitchen, March Warden," Erestor said in a teasing tone as he leaned against the doorway, arms crossed over his chest. "I never thought your skills at baking could rival that of our cooks."

So startled was he to be found, the bowl slipped from Haldir's fingers as he jumped at the sound of Erestor's voice. A smattering of sweet cream escaped the bowl as a corner of it hit the table, flying into the air before raining down on the unnerved March Warden. Erestor couldn't help but laugh at the sight of Haldir, white fluffy cream on his face and the most adorable startled expression on his face.

"Er...Erestor?" Haldir stuttered, quickly wiping his face clean, missing a spot on his nose, as he blushed a dark crimson. The blush intensified further when Erestor stepped forward, gathered the cream on a fingertip and took a taste.

"You are good in the kitchen." The dark-haired Elf watched in amusement as Haldir wrinkled his now clean nose before proceeded with what he was doing, spooning the remaining cream onto the pastries and spreading it about. "Just what are you doing in the kitchen so early? You could have just asked the cooks to prepare this breakfast for you if you so craved it."

"It's not for me," Haldir remarked without looking up. "My youngest brother is a finicky eater; he refuses to eat anything for breakfast unless its sweet, spiced and made of apples. Besides, this is something our mother used to make; she would not forgive me for giving someone else the recipe. Not even Lady Galadriel knows how to make this tart, though rest assured she has all but begged me for it."

"And, pray tell, if Rúmil so desires such a breakfast, why isn't he here to make them?"

"Everything tastes better when someone else makes them,'" Haldir said, mimicking the younger Galadhrim perfectly with a slight scowl on his face.

"You do know that typically baking is reserved for the women?"

Haldir gave Erestor an 'I know that' look, but shrugged his shoulders as he put away the bowl. "There's still the small matter of my mother refusing to relinquish her recipe." Setting the tray by a window to cool, the March Warden wiped his hands clean before divesting himself of the apron, replacing it on the peg he had taken it from. "Please excuse me, councilor; I need to change before the morning meal."

"Of course, March Warden." With a nod of his head, Erestor stepped aside to allow Haldir to pass. He watched the silver-haired Elf disappear down the corridor, his dark gaze fixed upon Haldir's retreating back. /Just who are you, Haldir of Lórien?/

~~~~~~~~~~
"I'll thank you kindly not to use me as a way to seduce Erestor!" Rúmil nearly shouted at his elder brother in the empty dining hall before slipping the last bite of an apple tart into his mouth. He chewed in indignation whilst glaring at Haldir, who merely rolled his eyes and ignored the amused chuckle from Orophin.

"For your information, muindor," Haldir retorted after taking a sip of tea, "I was not trying to seduce anyone. If you weren't so finicky in your eating habits, I wouldn't have been in the kitchen this morning in the first place."

"Oh please, Haldir," Orophin said. "I remember when you were barely to my knees and sneaking in to watch Nana making the morning meal. You'd always demand the oddest things for breakfast, so you shouldn't be calling Rúmil a finicky eater."

Instead of replying, Haldir merely glared at both his brothers, who sat grinning at him from the other side of the table. He would have said more, but at that precise moment, Lindir, the twins and Legolas decided to join them for the meal.

"Is there something amiss?" Lindir asked, sitting next to Rúmil as Elrohir claimed the seat to Orophin's left. Elladan and Legolas decided to seat themselves next to Haldir. "We could hear the three of you speaking from within the corridor."

"Nothing of particular importance," Rúmil remarked whilst his hand darted out for another tart. "Haldir was just telling us about his...momentous time in the kitchens this morning."

"Oh?" Elladan's curiosity was quipped as he leveled his gaze on his brother, who returned Elladan's arched eyebrow stare. "And, pray tell, what happened this morning, Haldir? Anything particularly noteworthy?"

Haldir choked, spitting out the tea he had been sipping. He scowled at Rúmil, but the young Galadhrim feigned indifference as he continued on with his breakfast, one finger twirling a lock of Lindir's hair affectionately. "No," Haldir finally said after composing himself. "Nothing noteworthy, not at all."

"I beg to differ," Orophin mumbled, earning a confused look from his lover. Elrohir didn't have a chance to comment as Haldir quickly stood after finishing his tea and left, saying something about the training grounds. All save for Orophin and Rúmil looked after him in confusion.

"I wonder what is bothering him," Legolas said as the servants came and began preparing breakfast for the elves.

"'Tis nothing," Orophin replied. "Haldir becomes moody occasionally. It is nothing to worry about; he will be his old self within the next day or two."

Lindir thought otherwise but chose not to comment as the gathered group began to talk amongst themselves. Rúmil caught the concerned look in his lover's eyes and bestowed a gentle squeeze to Lindir's hand.

"Do not worry for Haldir, melethron," the youngest Galadhrim whispered. "It is his own problem to deal with, and we can do naught but support--and tease--him about it." Rúmil gave the white-haired elf a reassuring smile, which Lindir returned, before the pair turned back to the conversation before them.

~~~~~~~~~~
"Erestor?"

It was late in the afternoon with the evening meal fast approaching. Erestor had spent most of the day organizing some misplaced books and scrolls in the library. He had been alone during that time, save for lunch when he found himself in the company of Elrond, Thranduil, Glorfindel and Celeborn. Afterwards the advisor had once again retreated to the solitude of the library. Now, with Arien just beginning to make her descent, he was about to leave when Celeborn entered.

"Yes, Lord Celeborn?" Erestor said to the silver-haired lord whilst giving a deep bow.

"I cannot seem to find Haldir anywhere," Celeborn replied looking rather perplexed. "Orophin had told me Haldir visited the training grounds earlier, but now he is no where to be found. Would you kindly search the manor for him?"

"Aye, and I shall tell him you wish to speak with him when I do."

Celeborn inclined his head with a smile before leaving the library. Erestor remained a moment, collecting his thoughts as he wondered about the silver-haired March Warden.

/Most of the sentries go to the baths after a day of training or duty,/ Erestor mused to himself. /Perhaps I shall find him there./ Nodding his head in silent affirmation to this thoughts, Erestor promptly left the library and headed for the bathing area.

~~~~~~~~~~
Indeed Haldir had headed for the baths after spending the morning and the better part of the afternoon practicing with sword, bow and knives. The breakfast conversation with his brothers had annoyed him, but Haldir found it difficult to stay angry with Orophin and Rúmil. After all, the brothers had shared Haldir's secret of loving Erestor for years, never telling another soul.

Covered in sweat and dirt, Haldir had instantly sought out the baths the sentries shared after stowing his things in his room. With towel and robe in hand, the silver-haired March Warden wandered past the numerous marble pools until he found one that was secluded and unoccupied. Stripping off his soiled clothing and placing it in a basket for washing, Haldir slowly immersed himself into the warm water, sighing as it touched his skin.

Working slowly so as to enjoy himself, Haldir removed the braids from his hair before soaking the silver strands to be washed. Once the silver mane had been cleaned, he focused on his skin, scrubbing off the dirt and sweat until the alabaster skin underneath was revealed. Sighing deeply, he leaned back in the chest-deep pool and closed his eyes, savoring the moment of quiet and solitude.

That was how Erestor found him, silver head leaning back against the marble tiles, eyes closed and a soft smile on the pink-tinted lips. The dark-haired Elf drew in a sharp breath at seeing the March Warden's beauty, something he had never taken note of before. He stared for some time, mesmerized by the way Haldir seemed so at peace with his surroundings. Erestor continued to stare even as Haldir opened his eyes and stood from the pool.

Finding Erestor watching him when he had turned around nearly unbalanced Haldir, both physically and emotionally. Not knowing what to do now that the person he loved was staring at him in all his glory, Haldir did the only thing he knew how to do: he forced down the blush that threatened to appear, replacing it with a half-sultry, half-arrogant look. Tilting his head to the side, he stared at the robe he had discarded, the garment somewhat out of his reach.

"Kindly hand me that," Haldir said to Erestor, pleased that he was able to keep the embarrassed tremor from his voice.

Erestor nodded slowly at Haldir's request as he took a step closer; kneeling, he gathered the robe in his hand before rising and holding it out. He kept his eyes fixed on Haldir's face as the silver-haired Elf stepped out of the bath and accept the robe, slipping it on before reaching for the nearby towel to dry his hair. "The color red suits you," Erestor said in a small voice.

Raising an eyebrow, Haldir looked down at the crimson satin robe he was now wearing. "I suppose it does, though it is not a color I fancy too much."

"I would imagine not. A Galadhrim must prefer greens and grays to keep from being seen in the woods."

"Aye, that we do. Was there something you needed?"

The question caused Erestor to jump as he remembered Celeborn's request. He nodded once, looking up to meet the other Elf's gaze as he spoke. "Lord Celeborn would like a word with you before the evening meal begins. He is waiting and asked if I would kindly find you."

Haldir nodded, discarding the towel along with his clothes once his hair had been sufficiently dried. "Thank you, Erestor." With that, the March Warden gave the advisor another nod before leaving the baths.

Erestor watched the retreating sentry, a long, slow sigh leaving his lips. /You are most intriguing, Haldir of Lórien. I think I might just be falling for you./ A smile began to tug at the corner of Erestor's lips at such a thought, which he found he didn't mind so much. With a slight shake of his head, he left the baths and headed for the kitchens to oversee the preparations for the evening meal.

TBC...

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