For the Love of a Maia

For the Love of a Maia
Chapter 4: A Desperate Plea
For the Love of a Maia
A story by Sienna Dawn

Pairing: Haldir/OFC Heterosexual
Rating: NC17 for sexuality

Summary: The Valar send Haldir to Arda in order to bring a stranded Maia back to Valinor. When he arrives, the possibility of civil war looms large. Will the Maia forsake Middle Earth and return to Valinor? A period romance set against the backdrop of Norman England.

Disclaimer: Based on characters from The Silmarillion and the Lord of the Rings, by JRR Tolkien, (used here without permission), as well as historical events which occurred in York, England, 1173-1175 AD, during the reign of Henry II. Copyright remains with JRR Tolkien. For entertainment purposes only. No profit is being made from this work. All original characters are the creation of Sienna Dawn.

~*~*~*~*~

Chapter 4 - A Desperate Plea

When Elyen, Haldir and Ulric reached the bottom of the stone stairway, they saw that the wide receiving hall was full of people. Haldir observed these Atani, dressed in similar fashion to himself, but all bearing insignias and chevrons denoting their status and allegiance. Not so different from his own people.

Elyen maneuvered around these men, seeming to know many, judging by the way their conversation stopped when she neared. But to all she merely nodded, following Ulric, and pushing Haldir by her side.

Haldir felt the heavy and curious stares of the men, but he made sure to make eye contact with none.

In a few moments, they reached the dining room.

The aromas drifting in from the kitchens outside were mouth-watering and Haldir realized he was hungry. The dining room itself had been richly decorated, with attention to detail fit for a king. And, he mused, of course, there was an important reason for this feast.

He allowed himself the luxury of looking around as Elyen was suddenly stopped by a tall red-haired man and they engaged in conversation. Standing to the side, he let himself look around.

The dining room was decorated with flowers and the family chevron, a flowering rowan, appeared in every corner. It was engraved in every table and chair. It was etched deeply into the wooden panels. Haldir knew that his chevron was very similar to the standard of the Numenoreans, which was one of the Flowering Trees of Valinor. He wondered if there was a connection. Discreetly, he turned to look at the sentries posted at the room's entrance and saw that they too wore the same insignia on their surcoats. As Hugh Malet had worn, Haldir thought. All wore a blue and white arm band with the rowan proudly displayed.

He noticed there were candles glittering on every table. Petals of amaryllis and lilies with crushed rosemary, thyme and basil, were scattered throughout the floor, combining with the rich aroma of the food for a unique musky scent that enveloped the senses.

Just then, Elyen turned to him and spoke softly so only he could hear, "Haldir, tirio!"

Smiling, for she seemed unable to stop using Sindarin, a language he knew she loved, he raised his eyes to where she indicated. "What is it you wish to show me, meluiel?" He turned his soft gaze upon her face.

"That man there, the one seated at the table, next to the slender man." She answered, looking around to see that Ulric was in deep conversation with Gilbert de Poynes, a large, solidly-built man of some forty summers, and one of the famed Knights Templars.

"I am not certain I know which man you mean, Elyen." Haldir retorted.

"The one," she whispered, "wearing the bright red tunic."

Haldir looked again and nodded, "Ah, yes, I see him." He looked at the man more carefully, sizing him up. Not much there, Haldir thought, except a love of luxury.

"That is Almeric Atteford. King Henry's nephew. I suspect he has arrived upon these shores to warn the King's allies of impending war."

Haldir watched the man with greater interest. "But that one has not known pitched battles, Elyen. Look at his hands. Soft and well-shaped."

Elyen smiled, "In this land sometimes the high-born forsake the battlefields. Some fight, but others do not."

Haldir arched his brows in amazement but said nothing.

In moments, Ulric joined them and ushered them to a smaller rectangular table, close to the larger one where Almeric sat. Listening to Ulric and Elyen speak, Haldir learned the man on Almeric's right was the lord of Rowan Bold, Godfrey Fitzwalter. The youth he had seen earlier in the day, parrying with Ulric, was seated several chairs away from his father, a small sour look on his face. The young girl they had met was furthest down the table, seated next to the older dark haired daughter whom he remembered from the kitchens. Matilda Fitzwalter was already seated on Almeric's left side. Behind Almeric there were numerous grim-faced men who were probably his bodyguards and counselors.

Godfrey waved his hand and stood. Conversation slowly ebbed. "To-night we toast to the King, his health and his success in the Northern realms." This was met with a boisterous "Aye". Godfrey waited and then continued, "This house has long been fortunate to be under the most auspicious and benevolent protection of good King Henry," this followed with spots of "here" and "aye", which Godfrey waved into silence. "To-night it is hoped our two great houses form an alliance of not only friendship and allegiance, but of love and matrimony." Godfrey smiled at the rousing cheers and looked down the table where Anysse sat quietly, her eyes fixed upon the table.

Haldir looked at the female in question and realized she was on the verge of tears but controlled herself very well. He admired this type of self-control. Obviously, the woman was in no hurry to marry the foppish Almeric. His grey eyes darted back to Atteford.

"Have you ever been to an Atani feast?" Ulric asked Haldir abruptly.

Haldir shrugged, "A few, not many." He turned to look at Ulric and was surprised to see a great tension on the man's face.

"Well, then, unless you wish to have a great case of gout, I advise you to sample a small bit of everything. Drink the wines best and avoid the ales."

Haldir nodded, "I will do as you suggest." He was grateful to the man, "But tell me, is this a wedding feast?"

Ulric's eyes took on a pained expression and Haldir realized he had hit the mark.

"Nay, 'tis not. But it is not uncommon knowledge that Godfrey wishes to see a union between his blood and Almeric's. Since Melissant is too young..."

Haldir nodded slowly, turning to look at the serving trays that were beginning to arrive. "Yes, I see the difficulty."

Ulric gave Haldir a sharp stare but said nothing.

Haldir watched the servants in fascination. Trays heaped with food were being brought out. All contained rectangular pieces of bread, which Ulric explained were called trenchers. Each trencher contained a generous portion of the course being offered. The idea was to eat off the trencher and if desired break off a piece of the bread to soak into the wine or gravies served alongside the meals. Each guest received a new trencher at each serving, although those of royal rank received three at a time. Trenchers made of bread were a status symbol of rank and power. At the end of the meal, the trenchers were collected and given to the poor.

Haldir listened to all of this with curiosity and a little revulsion. Elyen had not yet directed a word to him, as she was deep in conversation with an older gray-haired man whom Ulric had identified as the King's Minister of Lands. A curious title Haldir thought, but remained stoically silent.

Then had come the actual servings and he had been stunned at the variety. Match for match, these Atani had simply outdone any elven feast he had ever been to.

Before him was placed a delicate-looking golden meat pie topped with a broiled chicken breast. He discovered it was made of pork and stuffed with almonds and raisins. Harking to Ulric's advice, he ate but a couple of spoonfuls and then pushed the plate aside. In moments, this was picked up and a trencher was placed before him. It was filled with an aromatic thick soup which he found was heavily flavored with almonds and other spices. Around its side, there were little cabbages marinated in wine and herbs and carrots and potatoes covered in honey and cloves. Beef rolls, stuffed with onions and herbs and roasted on skewers were placed alongside the trencher. Haldir, not accustomed to this much food, ate but a little, making sure to taste all.

He looked over at Elyen, who was spooning the soup into her mouth. He heard Ulric chuckle. "By to-night's end, she will know all of the King's plots and movements."

Haldir looked back at Elyen and then reached for a goblet. He saw it was a red wine. Savoring it, he arched an eyebrow. "Fine wine."

Ulric nodded and likewise reached for his own. "Godfrey's own. The best in the realm." As he drank the dark red liquid, he allowed his eyes to drift to Anysse. He could see she was miserable and had not touched her food. His heart pained him and he wished he had the courage to speak out and ask for her hand. But his own situation was hopeless. Setting the goblet down with some force, he gave Haldir a small smile.

The rest of the night saw more food served, from venison pies dripping with gravy, to grilled salmon. Haldir even recognized the three eels Melissant had caught in the river and when they were brought before him, he could not resist raising his gaze to the young girl. To his surprise, he saw she was watching him intently. So, he picked a large morsel and ate it with much gusto, seeing the pleased grin appear on the child's face.

But just when Haldir thought that the kitchens had been rendered empty, there came the specialty of the house -- the cockatrice. Haldir stared at the strange beast upon the silver platter and turned to Ulric with a confused look. "What manner of animal is this?"

Haldir's confusion made Ulric laugh hard, "Tis made of two very common animals. A chicken and a hog. It is called a cockatrice."

Haldir stared at the cockatrice with a baneful eye, "I am not so sure an Eldar should be eating food of this sort."

Ulric merely laughed and reached for his wine, stealing a look at Anysse. She still sat with her eyes lowered, her hands folded on her lap. Curiously, even Melissant noticed something was amiss and ignored her older sister.

The dining room was loud, boisterous, voices singing and laughing, some deep in private conversations, others merely eating and saying nothing. At last, desserts were brought out. There were honeyed pears, trenchers decorated with fresh flowers and sweet herbs, where bunches of grapes, apples and plums were sliced. Haldir tasted an interesting sweet confection which Ulric called gyngerbrede.

Finally, the eating was over but Haldir saw that no one moved. Haldir turned to look at Ulric for some explanation but saw the man was looking at the dark-haired woman and that he had caught her eye. Indeed, Haldir thought, they were drowning in each other's eyes. Haldir looked discreetly about him and saw that save himself, no one was aware of the pair's obvious longing.

Suddenly, Haldir's jealousy for Ulric dissipated and instead he found he somewhat pitied the young man. He too knew what it was like to love from afar, to love and not be able to reach out for the beloved's body nor kiss the beloved's face or lips. With these thoughts heating his blood, Haldir turned to Elyen. She had not once spoken nor acknowledged him, but he realized she was doing what she was supposed to.

~*~*~*~*~

Time passed slowly and Haldir judged it to be well over midnight. Yet, the dining room was still full of people and a short while before a thin, short man had begun telling tales. Most of these Haldir did not comprehend, but he didn't let that bother him. He sat back, crossed his arms and stretched out his long legs beneath the table. He seldom had the luxury of observing people at length and this was an activity he had always enjoyed.

Every now and then, Ulric broke in with a comment or two.

Just now, Godfrey Fitzwalter came to a stand and waved the conversation down.

Turning to Almeric, Godfrey smiled and glanced back at the expectant room. Haldir could see Ulric reach for his goblet. The man's knuckles were white with tension and Haldir smoothed his gaze over the younger man's face. In his heart, Haldir felt compassion.

"My Lords, my friends," Godfrey began. "Many of you know that long have my beloved wife and I desired a union of the Houses of Atteford and Fitzwalter." A low grumble broke out toward Haldir's right but he did not acknowledge it. His gaze was fixed on Godfrey Fitzwalter.

"To-night we have dined well, thanks be to the great fortunes and graces bestowed upon us. We have met as one and in great friendship. It is for the sake of that friendship and for the security of our lands that my dear wife and I have accepted Lord Atteford's request for our daughter Anysse in the bonds of holy wedlock."

Here, Haldir noticed Godfrey and Matilda beamed and Lord Atteford arched an eyebrow of thanks toward the many felicitations he was receiving. But when he turned to look at Anysse, his breathing nearly stopped.

The young woman, eyes still downcast, was slowly rising to her feet. Haldir leaned closer to Elyen to catch her attention and nodded toward Anysse.

Anysse stood demurely, waiting for the noisy room to grow quiet. Haldir heard Ulric exclaim under his breath, "Anysse, no!" Elyen reached for Ulric's tunic and forced him back down to his seat.

When at last the room was still, Anysse spoke without once raising her gaze. "My Lords, dearest and honorable mother and father." She began slowly, but Haldir could hear the gathering courage within her words.

"I am muchly honored that the Earl of Borgounnais and Duke of the Southmarches, Lord Almeric Atteford has graced me with the promise of matrimony. Yet, it is a request I cannot honor for I am bound to another."

She kept her head bowed low, the dancing flames of the candlelight sparkling against her hair.

There followed loud shouting at Anysse's words, but none louder than Godfrey himself, who came to his feet with much violence, sending his heavy wooden chair tumbling to the floor.

"What are you saying, daughter!" His blue eyes blazed.

At Anysse's side, Melissant stared at her sister, mouth slack, eyes widened. Now, for sure, they'd be sent to Baldric. She chanced a look at her mother and saw Matilda had gone white.

But Anysse did not respond and Godfrey spoke again. "Anysse, think you what you say, daughter!"

Haldir turned a slow gaze upon Elyen and saw she too was staring fixedly at the girl as if she had not foreseen this. Ulric on the other hand looked as if he was ready for battle, while the subject of the argument, the Lord Atteford himself, sat bored, stifling back a yawn. In that one instant, Haldir despised the man.

"Anysse! Speak!" Demanded her father. "Who is this man to whom you have given your troth?"

Anysse finally spoke but did not raise her head. "I will be traveling within the week to Sempringham Priory and there take holy vows. It is for this reason I cannot marry, father." Now, she raised her gaze and Haldir saw it was hard and determined. "I cannot unmake the vows made before God."

Haldir was following this with some difficulty, but came to realize that in this world, vows made to Eru were expected to be lifelong and superceded the most serious promises.

At her words, Godfrey erupted and Ulric slumped in his chair.

"By God's word, daughter!" Godfrey exclaimed, "You cannot mean it!"

But Anysse nodded and met her father's angry stare. "Aye, I do." Was all she said.

"Anysse!" Godfrey finally thundered and this made the girl bow her head once more. "Have you forgotten that the founder of that Priory was suspected of having connections with Becket's murder? We are allied to Henry King, daughter! Or have you forgotten that?"

Anysse shook her head, "Nay, father, I have not forgotten, but the Priory was long absolved of any wrong-doing by the King himself. There is no impunity upon its walls."

Godfrey sat down, shocked. He turned to Matilda but saw his wife was in a greater state of shock. Almeric looked bored and the rest of the room waited quietly for the next volley.

Running his hand through his hair, Godfrey finally sighed, "You have disgraced us, daughter."

Haldir saw all eyes turn to Anysse and his great heart felt pain for her humiliation. He heard Elyen whisper, "No, Ulric" a few times but he did not turn his head toward the man, not wishing to draw attention to their corner.

"Forgive me, father," Anysse began, "Twas not my intention to disgrace you and our family," here she looked at Almeric who met her gaze with a bold look, "nor do I mean to offend your Lord nor his kind offer. I have heard a calling greater than my own will, and I must follow it." Her voice was calm and measured.

Haldir was beginning to admire this young female.

One of Almeric's counselors leaned into the Lord's ear and whispered urgently. At this, Almeric nodded and spoke without standing. "So be it, young woman. But the reality of the situation is that peace depends upon our union. And so it needs must be."

A small gasp escaped Melissant's mouth and it was the only sound in the room. Almeric's meaning was much too obvious. He turned to the distraught Godfrey, smiled complacently and drawled, "Tis a fancy of young girls, to enter the nunnery."

Godfrey raised his tormented eyes to Almeric's face. "What say you, my Lord?"

Almeric sighed and sat back in his chair, eyeing Anysse with hunger. "I will give your daughter a year to take vows, make good on her promise and then by royal command be released from her vows. We shall be wed then."

A huge tumult sprang within the room and Elyen sat back, eyes closed.

Haldir was now completely lost, but he saw that the man named Gilbert de Poynes stood. He was broad-shouldered and tall, and wore a white over-tunic with a large red cross emblazoned upon it.

"My Lord Earl," de Poynes began, directing his words to Almeric. Haldir could see he was exerting an iron control over his words. "This is the same folly that led the King into a confrontation with the Lord Chancellor Becket and the Holy See. The crown may not dictate the rules and implementation of its clerics and that includes Priories."

But Almeric merely stared at de Poynes with a practiced vacuous expression and waved the man down. "True, true, my dear de Poynes and I have no wish to create hostilities between crown and state. And I assure you that the distasteful situation between Becket and my Lord Uncle, the King, will not be repeated here this night. What I meant to say is that girls have young fancies about nunneries. I merely say let this one have her moment and then she will be ready for the marriage bed."

Most agreed with Almeric, but Haldir could see that de Poynes was staring at the Earl with a distrustful eye. Yet, the knight said nothing in return and took his seat slowly, his eyes never wavering from Almeric's face.

Throughout the entire exchange, Anysse remained on her feet, yet carefully following everything said. She had at least accomplished one small part of her goal but then within the year Almeric said he would come for her. Her mind raced.

Just then, Godfrey spoke, "Very well, Anysse, you may retire and begin to prepare for your journey to Sempringham Priory. And mark 'pon this -- in one year I will be back for you."

Anysse nodded and made a small curtsy, hurrying from the chamber and running up the stone stairway. When she reached her room, she opened the latch, closed the door gently and threw herself upon the bed to think.

~*~*~*~*~

It was shortly after sunrise when Matilda came storming into her daughters' bedchamber. There, she found Anysse alone, asleep on the bed.

In her rage, she crossed the room quickly and shook Anysse awake.

"Waken, Anysse!" Matilda said loudly.

Anysse felt herself being violently rocked and she opened her eyes slowly. When she was able to focus, she saw Matilda's enraged face.

"What have you done, you stupid girl!" Matilda yelled, letting go of Anysse's shoulders and sitting back on the bed.

Anysse stared into her mother's eyes. She had expected to be locked into her room, instead of this strange visit.

"Lady Mother," Anysse began, swinging her legs around the bed.

"Do not 'Lady Mother' me!" shouted Matilda. "I warned you to not shame us! And that is precisely what you have done!!"

"But Mother, I cannot undo what is done." Anysse lied, asking for forgiveness. Anything was better than the sham of marriage to Almeric. No matter what the luxuries it brought. All of her life she had known hers would be a marriage of convenience. She had come to accept that as her fate. But now, Ulric's presence had made that impossible.

"And, tell me," Matilda countered suspiciously, "how was this arrangement to take Holy Vows made?"

Anysse sighed. Now the time had truly come. "Letters." She saw Matilda raise her eyebrows.

"From the Prioress?" Matilda asked.

"Aye," Anysse lied.

"Show them to me." Matilda requested, crossing her arms.

"I burned them after I read them." Anysse looked calmly into her mother's eyes. Oh, please, she thought, I am sorry mother...

Matilda stared at Anysse. "You burned them?"

"Aye." Anysse responded.

Matilda pursed her lips and stood. "Very well, I will go along with this comedy. But know you this, Anysse. Your good father has spent a near sleepless night. We will allow you to make the journey to Sempringham and take with you fifteen knights. We will inquiry with the Prioress upon your arrival as to the nature of these vows." Matilda gave Anysse a warning glare. "And it would go better for you if the Prioress knows of this matter."

Anysse nodded and let out a slow breath. "She will." She promised.

Matilda walked to the door and retorted, "For your sake, she'd best. Get dressed and come to break your fast. There is much to do yet still." With that she left Anysse alone.

~*~*~*~*~

After Anysse had run out of the dining room, the rest of the assembled guests eventually settled in to private discussions or had retired to their rooms. Thus had ended what was for many an extraordinary night.

Now, in the early morning light, Elyen, Haldir, Ulric and the Templar Knight, Gilbert de Poynes, strolled within the private enclosures of the Herber inside Rowan Bold. This was a secluded place, far from the hearing of nosy servants and hired spies. It was a fragrant spot, much preferred by Elyen, where many of the herbs used in the kitchens were grown. It had many turf seats, and plank walls where endless rows of lilies and roses grew. Of course, Haldir's heightened senses would also tell them if anyone was about, and so they encouraged de Poynes to speak freely without revealing their advantage.

"I say," de Poynes was explaining to them, "that Atteford will not rest 'till he gets his hands on these lands. If the only way to do so is through the lass, then that he will do." He lowered his voice and sat down on one of the turf seats. "Already he has annexed lands south of Rowan Bold and I suspect he has not tendered them to the King, but has kept them for himself. I suspect he aims higher than many are willing to admit."

Haldir listened to all of this with a growing sense of unease. He was not accustomed to meddling in the political affairs of men. But, he also recalled Eonwë's words to allow Elyen to do as she thought best and not interfere. So, he turned his bright gaze toward the Maia and waited for her input.

"If as you say is accurate," Elyen began, and she saw de Poyne's surprised countenance, "and my Lord, I have no reason to suspect you are not correct," she added hastily, "then Anysse's refusal to marry Almeric would be his key to laying siege to Rowan Bold and the outlying shires. Wyat has not yet inherited, though of course, his will be the titles his father now holds." Elyen pondered for a moment, "Of course, by wedding Anysse then Almeric would have an unimpeded path toward all of York, the Dales and Moors. If he senses that his arrangement to wed Anysse is threatened, this will force his hand, and his claim of a violated contract of marriage would be the perfect excuse to attack York." She saw the grim expression on de Poynes' and Ulric's faces. "Unfortunately for us," she said, "this is working perfectly into Almeric's hands."

"Aye, it is," agreed de Poynes.

Elyen sighed, "By attacking York and this House, Almeric would achieve his means and conceal his true intent."

"Precisely." de Poynes agreed. "And you heard him. How readily he dismisses the independence of the Holy See, and with it, her knights. 'Tis the same mistake the King made once."

A soft sound came to Haldir and he waved them to silence. Quickly, he unsheathed one of his short knives and disappeared from view, hidden by the thick foliage of the many bushes and flowering herbs.

The others waited until moments later Haldir returned. "Tis well. A maid collecting aeglos."

Elyen nodded but de Poynes frowned.

"Aeglos?" He repeated, looking up from his turf seat and scrutinizing Haldir's face.

But it was Ulric who answered, "Prickly broom. 'Tis called aeglos in Haldir's realm."

"Ah," de Poynes answered, not seeming very convinced but unwilling to follow the point further, himself being no expert of herbs and grasses.

"We must be very careful from now on." Elyen said and the others nodded their agreement. "I must think upon this. We must devise a way to thwart Almeric and reveal his treachery to both the King and Godfrey Fitzwalter, without weakening York or Rowan Bold. If the North falls, the rest of the kingdom lies open."

"Aye, I agree," said de Poynes, "and I can add the voice of the Templars, if it needed be known." His eyes moved from Elyen's face to Ulric's. "But what of Robert de Lacy?" he asked, referring to the King's regent in the kingdom.

It was Ulric who answered, "de Lacy suspects but has no proof." He looked at Elyen, "we must force Almeric's hand."

"But how?" asked de Poynes. "Almeric Atteford is a cunning bastard. No doubt he has greased many palms."

Elyen frowned and sighed, "Perhaps there is a way, after all."

Coming to his feet, Gilbert de Poynes shook his head, "Whatever that may be, great Lady, make your move soon! Keep me within your circle and send your dispatches via the Great Wold Road for the walkways and paths are being watched."

Elyen nodded and blinked hard. "I will," she answered.

As they filed out of the Herber, Ulric remained behind deep in thought. He wondered if these turns of events were so much coincidence and fate or Anysse's own meddling. He was beginning to worry not only for the safety of Rowan Bold and its people but for his own future as well.

~*~*~*~*~

Haldir walked out of the Herber following Elyen and Gilbert de Poynes. The bright sunlight of the hot and humid June morning did nothing to brighten Haldir's spirits, for though he knew little of this kingdom's internal affairs, he could judge from the severity of Elyen's concern that real trouble was brewing ahead.

de Poynes separated himself from Haldir and Elyen, heading toward the House, but the couple continued to stroll silently away from the building.

Haldir could hear little noise coming from the House itself and so he judged everyone but the serving staff to be still asleep. He turned and looked at Elyen while they walked side by side.

"What will you do?" He placed his hands behind his back as they walked.

"I know not yet, though a plan is beginning to form in my mind." Elyen turned her face to Haldir.

Haldir nodded, "I see."

Elyen pressed her lips into a firm line. "But I am not so certain it will work."

Haldir dropped his gaze to the ground. Silently they approached the drawbridge and they waited for it to be lowered. Neither spoke until they had crossed the moat and left Rowan Bold behind them. Haldir realized that they were slowly heading back to the ground's dark wood.

He spoke then, "Perhaps, if you share your idea with me, I might be able to help you fathom if it is a sound one or not."

Elyen sighed. "So many things to consider."

Haldir did not respond, but waited silently, knowing it was never a good idea to press Elyen.

They approached the edge of the woods and Haldir rapidly walked ahead of Elyen, parting the branches for her. She entered the dark wood without glancing at him and Haldir could see from the seriousness of her face that she was contemplating whether she should tell him or not.

At last, Elyen seemed to have made up her mind. Stopping, she turned to Haldir.

"My thoughts are these." She began. "There is no wisdom in engaging Almeric openly for he can lay claim to an army of five thousand or more as opposed to perhaps five hundred which is all that Godfrey can quickly rouse. The Templar Knights are too far dispersed to be of much use to us. Almeric must be outfoxed quietly, for no matter how deep his treachery runs, the King will always defend one of his own."

Haldir nodded but did not interrupt.

"My heart tells me Gilbert de Poynes is correct in his belief that Almeric is using Anysse to gain a foothold in this realm and force Godfrey out, and then Wyat will also forfeit his inherittance. Godfrey is, above all, loyal to the King. And so he and Wyat both stand in Almeric's way. Marriage to Anysse would neutralize this threat."

Haldir frowned. "Marriages are arranged in this world?"

Elyen nodded, "Those of the high born are." She saw Haldir's amazed look, "Do not think it so strange, Haldir, for with these marriages are nations formed, wars ended, alliances maintained." She placed a hand on his arm and she began to walk again with Haldir by her side. "In our case, a marriage may avoid a siege and open rebellion when civil war from a second front threatens. Do you see the problem?"

Haldir nodded, "I think so. Anysse needs to marry another. One who can muster a force equal to or greater than Almeric's."

Elyen smiled. "Yes, she does."

Haldir looked ahead of him, toward the tall trees. "And, tell me, meluiel, who shall her spouse be?" He thought he had already guessed the answer.

Elyen turned her bright eyes on Haldir's face and replied calmly, "Ulric de Graville, who else?"

Haldir nodded slowly, "I thought he was believed to be your betrothed." He tried to keep his voice as neutral as possible, but a hint of emotion escaped him. It did not go unnoticed by the Maia at his side.

"Haldir!" Elyen exclaimed, "did you think I would marry Ulric?" Her blue eyes studied the fair face of the elf by her side. She could see the muscles of his jaw tense. "Why, you did think so!"

Elyen stopped and grasped Haldir's arms, forcing him to turn and look into her face. "Never have I looked at another as I do you." she said softly, "Do you not know my heart? Think you I share tender words with others?"

Haldir saw the truth in Elyen's eyes and smiled gently, raising a hand and caressing her cheek. He saw her eyes close slowly. "Nay, I did not think you traded sweet words with others, but it did cross my mind that after all the ages between us, your heart might have heard the call of another's love." His voice was thick, low, intimate.

His words had such an effect on Elyen that she momentarily forgot the issues at hand and opened her eyes. Steadily she gazed into grey eyes that warmed to liquid silver.

"Kiss me, Haldir," she asked him huskily, her eyes dropping to his mouth.

Haldir's eyebrows arched. "You are certain?" He saw where her gaze was fixed and felt his blood begin to stir.

Elyen closed the gap between them and pressed herself to Haldir's body. She stood on tiptoe but even then still only reached the tip of his chin. "I have wanted this for centuries -- I have dreamed of this -- longed for...."

She was cut off by Haldir's kiss.

It began slowly, his lips hovering over hers, his whispered, "Meleth nîn." He kept his mouth a scant breath away from hers, waiting for her to say the words he had longed to hear, the words he needed her to say.

Haldir brought her body closer to his own, molding her into himself. Threading a hand under the nape of her neck, cradling her head, as he bent over her, letting her feel his throbbing need for her, knowing her fires burned as hot as his own, until she melted and at last whispered, "Haldir, meleth o guil nîn, miqul'min -- kiss me, meramin."

Slowly he kissed her, tasting her lips, his body pressing for more, willing himself to go slow for he had never kissed her nor had she ever spoken to him like this and his own control was frayed at best.

Elyen took matters into her own hands and she opened her lips under Haldir's mouth, touching her tongue to his, dueling with him, moaning her desire for him against his lips.

Haldir returned the kiss with fervor and passion, his hand still cradling the nape of her neck, drawing her mouth even more deeply into his. The kiss was intoxicating and both felt their legs slowly collapsing onto the soft soil, desire overwhelming them beneath the onslaught of emotion and need that welled within them.

Kneeling before each other, Haldir dropped his hand from Elyen's neck to her back. His mouth left hers and trailed hungry open-mouthed kisses over the slender column of her neck, his other hand pushing the silken material off her shoulders.

Elyen's hands were splayed against Haldir's strong chest, savoring his kisses, his scent, his strength. She felt her blood boil at his moans and she knew desire for the first time in her life.

Breaking from Haldir's arms, she looked into his eyes. They blazed with undisguised emotion, a light to his eyes she had never seen there before and it gladdened her heart to know it flared for her only. "Not here, meleth nîn." Her voice was husky and she smoothed back the braids at the sides of his face, revealing his ears and tracing their coils delicately.

At this, Haldir dropped his head back and groaned, raising his head again to look Elyen in the eye. "You make it very hard for me, my love," he grinned and captured her waist, drawing her down to the soft earth, covering her body with his own. "You owe me a forfeit." He smiled into her hair.

Elyen laughed and brought her hands to his shoulders. Slowly his hips were beginning the ancient dance and she began to move slowly with him, "What forfeit do you have in mind?" She husked into his ear letting her tongue snake out and delicately twirl inside his left ear.

Shudders ran down Haldir's body and he pulled his head back to look at her. "Something of my choosing then," His eyes warmed into hers.

Elyen smiled in return, giving Haldir a languid look he realized was her consent.

Then he began in earnest what he had long dreamed of doing.

His hands slowly roamed Elyen's supple body, running the length of her shoulders, down to her arms, her fingers, back up to the shoulders, down the ribcage, pressing lightly into her abdomen, running down her legs. He sat on his heels and caressed the barefoot feet, kneading the toes and the arches.

Elyen laid perfectly still, enjoying Haldir's attention, savoring the delicate touch of his rough hands, marveling at how such hands could be as tender and gentle as this. Often a moan of pleasure escaped her lips and she came to realize this made him bolder.

Haldir's lips ached to kiss the many places his hands caressed, and when his thumb lightly flicked over a nipple, already hardened and taut, Elyen arched into his hand and groaned, covering his hand with her smaller one.

Her blue eyes fluttered open. She was breathing heavily, as he was. "Haldir," her eyes looked into his gaze, which were full of love and want. "My beautiful, fair Elf...." she was lost for words and he saw this and smiled.

"Say nothing, my sweet," and he lowered his head to capture the nipple in his mouth.

Gasping loudly, Elyen dropped back to the ground and squirmed from the pleasure he was giving her. His mouth suckled the stiff peak through the flimsy material and in a moment she felt his knowledgeable hands push the fabric off her shoulders, baring her skin to the cool June breeze.

Further, the material was pushed, until her bosom was laid bare to Haldir's eyes, hands and mouth. He left the one breast, looked into her eyes and kissed her lightly, the love and desire in his heart blending into a sweet vortex of passion.

He kissed her now with passion, mastery, teaching her how to nip the bottom lip, licking her neck, down to her collarbone and trailing to the gentle swelling of her bosom, and then flicking kisses over and under her breasts, alternating between them, squeezing one nipple between thumb and forefinger while deeply suckling the other erect tip.

Elyen felt she was losing her corporeal form and was melting inside Haldir's spirit. She felt his throbbing need pulsing at her belly and her body responded to his invitation, dancing the ancient movements of love and desire. He pressed down into her and she raised her hips in response.

Long did they dance in this fashion, until Elyen squirmed and Haldir raised his head. His eyes questioned, "What is amiss, guren min?"

Elyen smiled and ran her hand through his golden hair. "There is so much to do, Haldir."

Haldir smiled gently, and sat back on his heels, "Then there will another time for love."

Elyen was still on her back, looking at the elf above her and suddenly she reached for him, drawing him back down to her. "Nay, the best time for our love is now. We have waited far too long." She propped herself up on her elbows and began to unbutton the laces at the front and sides of her gown. She saw Haldir smile and reach out to complete the task, while she allowed her hands to smooth his hair, and then drop to his tunic.

Slowly, Haldir lowered the gown away from Elyen's body, freeing the full and coral-tipped breasts. He weighed them in his hands, brushing his thumbs over their stiff peaks, looking deeply into Elyen's eyes as she moaned and licked her mouth. Understanding, Haldir closed the gap between them, his hands still holding her breasts, and he leaned to her, bringing his mouth to cover her own, opening her lips, licking the inside of her mouth, groaning into her mouth, gently squeezing her nipples until Elyen nearly screamed in delight.

Then Haldir lowered Elyen to the ground and continued to remove the rest of her gown, sliding it past her hips, revealing her body to his eyes, a smooth alabaster skin that closely matched his own.

Her legs were well shaped, slender but muscular. Her thighs well defined and toned, and this he knew came from years of riding and walking.

Then his eyes traveled to the black patch of hair at the apex of her legs and he leaned closer, blowing softly on the curls, eliciting from Elyen a deep sigh.

One hand ran down the side of her hip while the other toyed with the hair of her femininity. His fingers began to delve between her legs and he heard her moan and saw her body arch. His eyes flew to her face. Elyen's face and breasts were flushed with a rosy tinge and her eyes closed.

Leaving her thighs for a moment, Haldir leaned into her mouth, whispering, "Easy, my love, there is much time yet for us." She squirmed and reached for his neck, with her eyes closed bringing her mouth to his.

Haldir melted into her kiss, which was both gentle but seductive. Elyen kissed him with a honeyed sweetness that told him much of what was in her heart for suddenly he felt as if his bones were melting inside her soul and he could feel the steady thrum of her heart.

Then Elyen's hands roamed down, to that part of Haldir that stood proudly erect for her, straining against the tight confines of his leggings. With one hand, she kneaded his buttocks and with the other, she grasped his erection, bringing from him a deep sigh of satisfaction and a deep moan of need and pleasure. She deepened the kiss then, dueling with his tongue, breaking free of his mouth and licking his ears.

Then Haldir heard Elyen's deep voice utter a strange spell, which he understood but did not know its meaning or power. She whispered the words into his ears as her arms entwined even more tightly about him:

"I came to tarry under the sun and sang of leaves and flowers.
Happy were my days, passed within the moon-kissed elven bowers.
I sang of wind and rivers where many paths meet,
and I pursued them all with eager feet.

Oh, beloved, thine eyes are like silver moonlight upon the smooth sea.
You have conquered me, tamed me, no longer am I free.
With my body and soul in joy I yield to thee
through time, past our fates, beyond eternity!

Is this power you give to me the same I give to thee?
Safe within my embrace, come beloved, bond with me."

Haldir frowned at the words, realizing a very momentous event was taking place between them, but soon he was lost in the heat of Elyen's body, mouth and sighs. When she took his hand and placed it on the triangular apex between her thighs, he smiled and gently delved between the soft folds, to find her ready for his touch, the honey wetness of her body calling him.

Quickly, Haldir pulled his body away from Elyen's and removed his boots, leggings and tunic, and then returned to the softness of her body, lowering himself, savoring in the delicious sensation of her breasts crushed beneath him. His hair fanned out about them, forming a private silken curtain and he took her mouth as he felt her thighs open for him, inviting him to take her further.

Haldir needed no further encouragement for he was already ready and engorged for her. Still, he gently rubbed her feminine core, and this brought a delighted moan from Elyen and once more, she whispered a strange phrase.

"Is this power you give to me the same I give to thee?
Safe within my embrace, come beloved, bond with me!"

Suddenly, the branches above them began to bend lower to them but Haldir barely registered this for in one fluid movement he thrust and entered Elyen's body, closing his eyes tightly shut, groaning at her heat, the muscles of her body contracting about him, pulling him deeply, sweetly, into the depths of her being.

Slowly, he began to thrust and she moved in time with him, pushing her pelvis against his, their bodies merging into one and then separating to reunite again. This was the ancient dance they had both dreamed of, longed for, and neither was in haste to end it soon.

Long they did pleasure each other, Haldir slowing his thrusts until his body trembled from the effort of holding back. Elyen had raised her legs to Haldir's shoulders, drawing him as far inside of her body as she could take him, and she too trembled from holding back.

Which of the two broke the endless sweet agony of their slow movements, neither were ever to know. Suddenly the tempo of their movements increased, Haldir thrusting faster, and Elyen receiving his thrusts with delight, meeting and matching his speed until their bodies arched as one. The eruption of pleasure overtaking them, molten passion coursing through their veins until it was spent and they rested in a tender embrace, gasping for air.

Above them, the trees had formed a canopy of green, russet and golden leaves, giving the lovers shade and privacy.

Long moments passed and Haldir's hand began to twirl lazily around Elyen's left breast. He could feel the quiet beating of her heart. He remembered her song and raised his head to look into her eyes. At once, the bright blue of her gaze met his cool silver ones. He saw she was smiling.

"Did you bind yourself to me, beloved?" He asked tenderly, caressing her smooth forehead. Lowering himself toward her, Haldir placed a loving kiss on Elyen's forehead. "I bonded with you long ago." He offered.

Elyen's eyes misted, "As I bonded with you, my heart." She reached out for his face and Haldir saw her hand tremble and he captured it in his larger one.

"You asked me, 'Is this power you give to me the same I give to thee?'" Haldir's eyes searched Elyen's face and she nodded.

"Aye, this I asked." Elyen said quietly.

"Here, then" Haldir replied, "is my answer," He sat back on his heels and caressed her hair, draping one raven lock over a coral nipple, smiling through his love into her eyes.

"Long-lived and alone was I amid the woods that bore me
Deep within Lothlorien where elves did sing.
'Till from beyond the Western Sea came a Maia's grace to save me
With a crown of stars in her hair aglittering.

Oh, my sweet, if you could see yourself with these eyes
that you do call moonlight-kissed!
Then wouldst thou know how long I have waited for thee whom I've sorely missed.

With my body, heart, and spirit, do I yearn to bind myself to thee.
Beneath all the skies there are,
both near and far,
And for all eternity!

This then, the power you give me, I thus return to thee,
Come my sweet, I do accept, then bind thyself to me!"

Haldir's voice trailed off gently, his eyes shimmering with meaning, now kneeling before Elyen. He waited for her response and saw her raise herself upon an elbow and reach out to caress his face. Haldir closed his eyes, so infinitely gentle was the Maia's touch and from behind his closed eyes he heard the soft whisper of her lips against his own.

"I love you, I have always loved you."

Haldir smiled and placed a hand on Elyen's waist, at the same time, opening his eyes and looking into her radiant face. "Always--I have always loved you, beyond whatever may be the fates of elves and Maiar...and Men." He added with a smile, before he bent closer to her and kissed her gently with all the love of his being.

High above them a single robin broke into a high, happy chirp.

~*~*~*~*~

KEY:

meluiel = lovely one

tirio! = look!

Becket's murder = St. Thomas Becket, once Lord Chancellor of England and Archbishop, quarreled with King Henry II over the power of the Church. He was assassinated in December 1170, by four knights not known if under the King's command. The founder of Sempringham Priory was questioned in the murder, but personally cleared by the King.

Herber = indoor herb gardens of the Middle Ages.

Turf seats = seats made of soil, bricks and planks and placed inside the Herbers.

Aeglos = Gorse (Prickly broom)

Robert de Lacy - Henry II's regent in England.

meluiel = lovely one

Meleth nîn = My love

Meleth o guil nîn = love of my life

miqul'min = kiss me (from the million different versions...the verb is found only in Quenya and the consensus is that it is spelled 'miqul'. Please forgive any syntax errors. I gave up trying to verify this simple two-word translation.)

Meramin = my desire. The verb is "mer" or "irmo" depends on who you ask. I trust the former more. Same as above for miqul'min.

guren min = my heart

Eru = Illuvatar (God)

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Disclaimer: All familiar characters are owned by JRR Tolkien and are used without permission. No monies are being made from this work.
Graphics copyrighted Cari Buziak