LotR fic: Passages, chapters 13-15 [Haldir/Melpomaen, adult]
Title: Passages Chapter 13, "Diversions"; chapter 14, "On the Borders of Mirkwood"; chapter 15, "New Faces" Author: celandineb Fandom: LotR Pairing: Haldir/Melpomaen Rating: adult Warnings: PWP, angst, exhibitionism Summary: Haldir and Melpomaen find their friendship developing beyond the expected as they travel from the Golden Wood to Dale and back via Mirkwood.
13. Diversions
This chapter is dedicated to Wídfara. Namarië, my friend. May we travel together again someday, beyond the bounds of Arda.
Melpomaen's spirits were high as they prepared to break camp. His left arm ached little, though he knew it was as yet far from healed; his ankle felt fine, if a bit stiff from inactivity. Most of his delight, though, came not from the freedom from physical discomfort, but from the knowledge that their decision to retrace their steps northward and take a longer and safer route home would also increase the time he and Haldir could spend together.
He looked over at his friend, who was frowning as he considered how best to distribute their loads. The dried venison was a welcome addition to their supplies, but added considerably to the bulk and weight of their packs.
"Can you carry any more, Maen?" Haldir asked him.
"Yes, if you let me put my pack on first and then lash the rest on for me. Otherwise I think I'd have trouble with my arm," Melpomaen said.
Haldir nodded and waited patiently for Melpomaen to finish getting his things ready. The injury would slow the younger Elf down for several more weeks, at least, though he was now able to use his hand somewhat. When Melpomaen had finished securing his pack and slipped it over his shoulders, Haldir added a large cloth-wrapped parcel of dried meat, binding it carefully so that the weight of it would fall evenly.
"There. I think that's everything." Haldir looked around. "I am almost sorry to leave here; after a week, this clearing began to seem rather homelike."
"Mm. Although I would far rather sleep in a talan than on the ground! Since we spotted that bear, I've been thinking how lucky we have been so far on our journey, to have encountered neither wild beasts nor Orcs," said Melpomaen.
"It has been a good journey in many ways," said Haldir, grinning at his partner.
Melpomaen smiled back. "So it has." He inhaled deeply, enjoying the crispness of the early morning air, softened by just a touch of moisture from the river nearby. "Shall we go, then?"
They passed eastward, to the meadow where Melpomaen had fallen, then turned north to retrace the path they had taken but a little while before. Summer hurried to its end, now; here and there leaves that had been green flashed bronze and golden in the light of dawn.
"Autumn is my favorite season," remarked Haldir. "Especially at home, when the mellyrn leaves turn to gold. I will miss seeing them this year."
"Oh, but you will see them, Dír; you just won't see them change. We would have to be delayed until spring for you to miss that. Unless our fortunes take some serious turn for the worse, I think it unlikely."
"I suppose so. I shall take comfort in seeing alien trees instead – less beautiful than a mallorn, perhaps, but striking in their own way." Haldir pointed. "There, you see that maple with the leaves on one branch turning crimson? Less restful to the eye, but a glorious color nonetheless."
Melpomaen shivered, mumuring, "It looks like blood..."
"No, do not be silly, Maen," said Haldir, but he looked at his friend with concern, wondering what could have provoked such a remark.
Trying to laugh, Melpomaen wondered himself why he had spoken so. He was not prone to such flights of imagination. "I am sorry. You are right, that was a silly thing for me to say. I do not know what I was thinking."
Haldir glanced at him sharply, then shrugged. "Let's see how quickly we can travel today; although the autumn colors are lovely, they ought to remind us that time is passing and we need to hasten our steps."
He set a brisk pace, fast enough that they both saved their breath for walking, not talking, until the sun rose to noon. They stopped then for a quick meal. Saving the dried meat for another time, they ate the last of a fish that Melpomaen had cooked the evening before.
"You have a sure hand with the cooking," said Haldir. "Even if you have only one to do it with at present!"
Melpomaen mimed a bow, accepting the compliment. "Anything to keep you from doing it," he joked. Haldir could prepare an edible meal, but they both acknowledged that Melpomaen's skill was far greater.
Haldir pretended indignation, saying, "Well, if that is how you feel about it, perhaps you should do all the cooking, from now on! I will do the cleanup afterward."
"If you like," Melpomaen shrugged. "I'd not mind that, actually. I quite enjoy cooking, but not dealing with the dirty pans and plates. And I cannot help hunt for much at the moment, so that will have to be your task. It would seem a fair enough division of effort."
"If you think that is fair, I would be happy to relinquish all the culinary duties to you. I prefer tasty food, and seem not to be able to prepare it as I would like. Strange, really; you would think that knowing a bit about herbs and so on would be a help. Evidently not."
"Done, then," Melpomaen said, stretching. "Ready to go? If we can walk a touch more slowly this afternoon, my ankle will thank you."
"Is it troubling you?" asked Haldir as they began to move once again. "You should have said something earlier."
"No, it doesn't ache, not yet, but it feels not quite right, if you know what I mean. A slower pace would be welcome."
"We may be trying to make good time, but if you injure your ankle again, that would mean a far greater delay for us than a more leisurely pace. And we could talk more easily as we travel, too," Haldir said.
Nevertheless they spoke little for much of the afternoon, simply enjoying the beauty of the day. Clouds were gathering in the west; they could see the edge of the storm peeping over the tops of the forest to their left, but as yet the sun was above the billowing masses, and the air was calm and pleasant.
"We must be sure to prepare in case the rain reaches us overnight," said Haldir eventually.
"Yes," agreed Melpomaen. "I think we had better stop soon, while enough light remains to set up camp."
Haldir nodded. "We did get an early start this morning, and we have made good time." He looked around and pointed. "There is where we stopped on our way south. And we can probably travel another hour, yet, before the sun is low. Thus far we have done well, with this change of route. I hope that every day goes as smoothly."
They continued as the sun began to disappear behind the clouds. Finally Melpomaen looked up, saying, "Now, Dír, or we risk being unable to see; unless you wish to cope with dark and rain at once?"
Haldir rolled his eyes. "All right, all right. We will stop now."
Long practice had their campsite laid out quickly, and a fire crackling under the trees. Haldir brought water and wood as Melpomaen prepared the meal.
"I think the secret is really in letting it all simmer together for a time," he said. "Especially with these dried meats; rushing it just doesn't work well." He turned to look at Haldir. "Which would give us time..." he let his voice trail off, tilting his head inquiringly.
He had been anticipated: Haldir was behind him, hands busy unfastening the laces that held Melpomaen's clothing on, and carefully slipping the tunic over the healing arm.
"Yes, it will give us time," he breathed into Melpomaen's ear. "So come with me." Haldir had already undressed, having slipped out of his own garments after bringing the final armful of wood, while Melpomaen was adding some final touches to his stew. He led the younger Elf over to the blankets and lay down, pulling the other to lie beside him.
He cupped Melpomaen's chin in his hand and drew their faces together for a lingering kiss. When he paused for a moment, Melpomaen made a soft noise of protest. Haldir pressed his fingers to his lover's lips.
"What do you want, meldanya? Tonight, I am yours to command," he said.
Melpomaen's eyes widened. Most of their lovemaking had been done as equals, although with his injuries, the last several times Haldir had taken control. Now he was relinquishing that, allowing Melpomaen to choose what form their pleasure would take.
"I want... I don't know if I can do what I want, just now," he said.
"Try telling me and we will see," urged Haldir.
"No, not today," Melpomaen shook his head. "Some other time, when my arm has healed more. I would like to see you arouse yourself, as you once watched me; and then I would," he paused, "I would like to find my own pleasure in your mouth. If that would be all right with you, Dír."
"Of course. As I said, I am at your will, this night."
He sat up and knelt before Melpomaen, his feet tucked under him, knees spread apart. He began by caressing the skin of his thighs, pressing his palms in a firm stroke down from hip to knee, trailing his fingers lingeringly. The touch itself felt good, but seeing his lover watch his movements made him far more excited. Determined to make his display as sensuous as he could for Melpomaen's benefit, he carefully kept his hands far from his groin for the moment, instead shifting to run his fingers up his ribs, circling the nipples and then pinching them.
Melpomaen's eyes followed every movement of Haldir's hands, his own fingers twitching as he imagined giving the same caresses. His organ pulsed in sympathy with the quivering flesh before him. Haldir began to speak, murmuring how he felt, his eyes half-closed as he concentrated on the sensations.
"Knowing you are watching makes me feel as if you were the one touching me, Maen. It is odd; I can do whatever will feel best at the moment, and yet feel that it is you, not I, who knows best what I want. Ah," he gasped, as he finally allowed himself to stroke his eager member. "That is... almost as good as being with you, inside you, because you are here with me, I can feel your eyes like a touch on my skin, burning in desire, as I burn for you." He used both hands, now, one stroking rhythmically, the other reaching behind him, a finger teasing the tight opening to relax.
"Now, I can imagine the impossible, to have you inside me and me inside you at once," he panted, looking into Melpomaen's eyes as he slid one finger home, leaning back to press as deeply as he could. His excitement was almost too great to sustain, but he paused. "Maen, I would never do this with another. I could never think of it. This is my gift to you," and his hips bucked as he released a hot stream into the air.
Melpomaen leaned over to kiss him, murmuring, "I know, meldanya, and a beautiful gift it is; one I will return to you someday, should you wish it."
Haldir took possession of Melpomaen's mouth, tongue thrusting deeply as the last quivers of his orgasm shook him. His hands threaded through the loose hair, finding the sensitive spots on neck and ears as he pressed himself against his lover.
"I know you will," he whispered, withdrawing a few inches. "But in the meantime, you had a second request of me."
He pushed Melpomaen gently backward to the blankets and placed himself between the opened legs. Tenderly he ran his tongue around the warm pouch, mouthing the fragile contents, before easing upwards to the swollen shaft. He could smell the scent of Melpomaen's arousal; watching Haldir bring himself to climax had nearly caused Melpomaen to do the same, untouched. Haldir sucked in the tip, rubbing it with his tongue, his hands busy below. Then he ran the point of his tongue along the vein throbbing the length of the shaft, moving up and down until Melpomaen was tossing restlessly at the teasing sensation.
"Do you want this, too?" Haldir asked, pulling his mouth away and rubbing with his finger until Melpomaen could be in no doubt of what he was asking.
"Yes, yes," Melpomaen said. "Just don't stop!"
He tensed at the exquisite sensation as simultaneously Haldir's finger nudged his most sensitive spot within, and his shaft was completely engulfed with the warm wetness of Haldir's mouth. He clutched at the blanket, crying out, "Oh, Dír, oh."
Haldir kept his throat relaxed as Melpomaen thrust into his mouth. One push, two, three, and the bitter seed spilled out. He swallowed convulsively, careful of his teeth, and bestowed one last lingering kiss on the soft skin. Moving up to lie next to his lover, Haldir asked, "Is there aught else you would have of me, tonight?"
Melpomaen opened his eyes languidly. "What else could I possibly ask for, at this time?"
Haldir smiled. "I couldn't think of much, just at the moment - but a promise is a promise, so if you could, I would do it." He wriggled into a more comfortable position, adding, "I think in the morning I'll want to bathe, after all this pleasant exertion."
"Hm, yes, that sounds like a good idea. It is a little dark to do so now." Melpomaen sat up. "But I imagine that my stew is probably ready, if you are hungry?"
"Naturally." Haldir sniffed. "It smells delicious, in fact. Let me just wash my hands and face, and dress again; the evening grows a bit chilly and I do not want to prance about with no clothes on, enjoyable though you might find it to watch!"
Laughing, Melpomaen said, "Well, I would enjoy it, as I suppose you would like to see me the same way, but I'd be cold undressed too. Pass me my leggings, if you will?"
Once clad again they sat down to eat supper. Melpomaen pulled a face, and Haldir asked, "What is it? The stew is as good as always."
"It isn't the stew, I was just thinking about us. Whenever I think of our future I become discouraged, especially after we make love; it is just so difficult to think of giving that up. I love to make love with you, Haldir, because I love you and it is such a beautiful way to show that. I suppose I am just resentful that because we happen to both be binn, our feelings for each other are going to be considered wrong by all our friends and family," he sighed.
"I have the same feelings," admitted Haldir. "To me it seems quite unfair too. We are told that our fëar do not die, whatever may happen to our bodies; and that after a time in Mandos, they may be rehoused. (1) Could not a fëa that had once been in a male body return to that of a female? And if so, what possible difference can it make, whether both members of a couple are male, or both female, or one of each? It is the bond between their fëar that is important, not the gender of their bodies. I have heard the Lady Galadriel say that the Valar themselves are neither male nor female, though they take on such forms. (2) I have known biss who were as strong and hardy as any benn; what qualities in their nature are so different that their fëar must needs be embodied as female?"
Melpomaen shook his head. "You know more than I of these matters, Dír. We should talk more of them, over these next weeks. Perhaps we can find some argument to convince at least your family to accept us? I know your attachment to your brothers is deep, and I would not like to think of you having to lie to them for the rest of your life - our lives," he amended.
Haldir sighed, and said, "I don't know. I would like to tell Rúmil and Orophin; but I would rather lose my closeness with them than lose you." He spooned up his last bite and yawned. "Do you want to take the first watch as usual? I think I will just stack up the bowls for now and clean them on my shift."
"Whatever you like," said Melpomaen. "Yes, I will take the first watch."
"Good. Wake me if there is need."
He rolled himself up in his blanket and was quickly treading the path of dreams, knowing that Melpomaen was watching to keep them both from harm.
Footnotes: (1) Fëar: spirits, souls. The word is Quenya and may have been adopted in Lothlórien due to Galadriel's influence. She undoubtedly met the lord of Mandos in her youth in Valinor, and would have known much about his halls.
(2) The Silmarillion, p. 21. "But when they desire to clothe themselves the Valar take upon them forms some as of male and some as of female; for that difference of temper they had even from their beginning, and it is but bodied forth in the choice of each, not made by the choice, even as with us male and female may be shown by the raiment but is not made thereby."
14. On the Borders of Mirkwood
The water was nearly boiling. Haldir hastily put the herbs he had gathered into their mugs - wintergreen for his partner, mint for himself - and let the brews steep for a few minutes. Dawn was breaking, although the clouds made it difficult to tell, and if they were to bathe this morning before resuming their journey, it was time to wake Melpomaen.
He carried the hot tea over and nudged at his lover's shoulder, half-hidden under blanket and tangled dark hair.
"Maen, love, time to wake. I have some wintergreen tea for you."
A grumbled response, and Melpomaen sat up, yawning. He accepted the mug, curving his hands around the warmth, and sipped at the steaming liquid.
"Awfully dark yet, isn't it?" he said, peering at the gloomy sky.
"At least it didn't start raining overnight, though it looks threatening enough for later today. I wanted to bathe before we left, and I thought you did, too," said Haldir.
"I suppose so. There are things I would rather do, of course," said Melpomaen, looking at Haldir over the rim of the cup as he drank.
"We might manage to find time for some of those things," Haldir smiled, setting his own mug down and stretching. "Before we bathe, or after?"
"Both?" suggested Melpomaen mischievously, then rolled his eyes in response to his partner's shaken head. "I know, I know, you need not remind me we should travel as far as we can today, and the rain that seems like to fall at any moment will doubtless delay us. After bathing, then. Do you have the soap, or is it in my pack?"
"I think you have it," said Haldir, "and I've just realized that we have only one cloth to use to dry off with. I used the other to wrap up that parcel of venison. So we shall have to share. Ready?"
Melpomaen swallowed the last of his tea and found the soap. "Ready."
The air was chilly enough that the two Elves shivered as they stripped down by the water's edge.
"I can't swim with this arm," said Melpomaen regretfully. "In fact, should I even get it wet? What will that do to the poultice?"
"I was thinking about that. Let it get wet and I'll take it off this morning. A couple of wooden splints and a sling ought to do the trick now, just to keep the bone immobilized. It is probably a good idea to let the skin breathe. But if you'd like, I will wash you off?"
"How can I refuse such an offer?" the younger Elf replied, wading in until the water lapped above his knees.
Haldir gently lathered all the exposed skin, then urged Melpomaen to duck and rinse himself off. "Wet your hair, too, if you'd like that washed as well."
"All right, but be quick; I'm getting quite cold here."
As Melpomaen let himself sink backward into the water, Haldir rapidly washed his own body and splashed off the soapsuds. "Here, kneel, Maen," he said, and began to rub soap into the dark hair.
"Will you comb it out for me, too?" asked Melpomaen as Haldir finished and poured handfuls of water over his head to rinse.
"Of course. All right, go dry off and let me wash my own hair now. But don't get the cloth completely soaked - remember, we have to share it!"
When Haldir emerged, sluicing the water from his limbs with vigorous strokes, Melpomaen was waiting to wrap the damp cloth around his body in a tight embrace.
"You looked as I'd imagine Ossë does, or even Ulmo, rising out of the sea," Melpomaen whispered in Haldir's ear. "Do you suppose the Valar and Maiar love as we do?"
"Not as you and I, as far as I have ever heard tell, but they do take spouses among their own kind, you know that. Not Ulmo, but is not Ossë espoused to the Lady of the Seas, Uinen whose hair trails through all the waters of the world, even this stream?" said Haldir.
"True, yes. Though Ossë cannot bring her greater pleasure than you bring me. Come, let's go back to the fire."
Haldir scooped up their discarded garments and allowed Melpomaen to tug him onward, but when they reached their blankets he said, "Let me deal with your arm first - now that the poultice is softened from the water, I should remove it and rebind the bone, lest any harm come to you."
"If you must," said Melpomaen, and waited impatiently as Haldir ministered to him.
"Now, Dír," he said. "can we wrap the blanket around us both? Will you be able to comb my hair, so?"
"I believe I can," said Haldir. He took the wooden comb from his partner and sat close behind him. "I'll try not to pull too hard, but it is rather tangled. Tell me if I hurt you too much." Bit by bit he worked the comb through the damp strands until Melpomaen's hair hung smooth and heavy down his back. "Do you want it braided?"
"Just above the ears, so it stays out of my face; that will be fine," said Melpomaen. "Then it will be your turn."
They reversed positions and Melpomaen began to smooth the golden locks.
"Your hair is likely the only sunshine I will see all day," he remarked, drawing his fingers through the gleaming mass. "Lucky for me that I travel with you!" He slipped his right hand underneath and caressed the nape of Haldir's neck.
"Mm," sighed Haldir, arching under the touch. "That's a very sweet thing to say, Maen."
Melpomaen nestled closer and put his arm around Haldir's waist to draw them together. "I just thought you'd like to hear one of the lesser reasons I love you, Dír," he breathed into the other's ear, and lapped with his tongue at the lobe, nipping the tender skin.
Haldir shivered, with heat now instead of the chill of the air. He could feel the slow throb of Melpomaen's desire pressing against him, answered by a matching pulse in his own groin.
"And what of the greater reasons?" he replied.
Melpomaen only laughed softly in response, letting his bound left arm rest where his fingers could brush Haldir's thigh, his right hand busily stroking Haldir's chest and pinching at the tight nipples.
"What would you have us do?" he asked. "You let me choose last evening."
"Let us lie down, facing," said Haldir. As they looked into the dark pools of each other's eyes, he touched his lips lightly to Melpomaen's, and spoke.
"I have said this before, meldanya, but I tell you again. You are my love and my joy in living. Whatever may happen to us, know that. Our fëar are bound together until the end of Arda - and afterward, only Ilúvatar himself knows what may happen. Never doubt that I love you, Maen, whether I can show it through desire like this," and he reached down to stroke Melpomaen's rigid organ next to his own, "or whether we can only show it in words and care, not through passion."
"I doubt you not," said Melpomaen softly, shifting to free his right hand from under his body so that he could reach out in turn. "You have shown me naught but kindness and care since we first met; and love. How could I but believe you? Surely you do not doubt me? I will follow you, as I have said, wherever our paths may lead, all the days of my life." He kissed Haldir hard, tongue probing past parted lips to meet tongue, breaths mingling, panting together as they thrust against one another, hands wrapped around firm flesh until they could hardly tell where one ended and the other began.
Haldir felt desire as deep as Ulmo's waters move through him, flooding all the veins of his body and pooling at his groin until his whole being seemed focused on the exquisite pleasure that his lover's touch brought. Such joy could not come from the Master of Lies; it must be the work of the Creator, he thought, shuddering in release.
As Haldir's seed spurted through Melpomaen's fingers, the younger Elf brought his own hand back to wrap around Haldir's as it stroked him.
"No, wait, Dír... can I come inside you?"
A nod from the golden head. Haldir rolled over, then raised himself onto hands and knees. "You ought not to have to put any weight on your arm, this way," he explained.
Melpomaen spread the sticky dampness along his aching length and knelt behind Haldir. "Tell me if this is all right, or if I must get the oil for you," he said urgently, and pressed the tip of his cock against the tight hole.
Haldir gasped, consciously trying to relax. "Careful," he groaned as he felt Melpomaen begin to slide inside.
The dark Elf paused, restraining himself until Haldir was ready. When the tightness eased, he gradually entered, luxuriating in the feel, the heat of his desire matched by the heat of Haldir's body. When he was fully sheathed, he leaned forward to kiss Haldir's shoulder.
"All right?"
"Yes... but can you touch me, too, without losing your balance?"
Melpomaen shifted slightly and took Haldir's member in his hand. As he carefully moved in and out, brushing the sweet spot inside, he could feel Haldir's desire hardening once again.
"Yes, Dír?"
"Oh, by the stars, yes, Maen!"
They moved together, then, as if one, until at last Melpomaen reached his climax and spent hotly deep within his lover. A few more firm strokes and Haldir joined him, collapsing forward onto the blanket.
"After that I scarcely feel like walking," he murmured after a few moments. "But we really must."
"I know," agreed Melpomaen. "How about another cup of tea and a piece of cram, first?"
"That will help," said Haldir, untangling himself and using the damp cloth to wipe them both clean.
A quick bite and they packed up, ready for another day's travel.
"If we are heading for the northerly route, how near will we come to Thranduil's kingdom?" asked Melpomaen as they walked. "Did you not tell me once that you have kin there? Have you ever been there yourself?"
"Some distant kin - my five-times-great grandfather lived in the northern woods when Oropher ruled there. I have not been to those lands myself, though I think my father may have been once, or perhaps his father. I will try to remember the names of some of those relations; I never thought I might need that knowledge on this journey, or I would have asked my family before we left," said Haldir.
"Do you wish to visit them, then? I thought we would merely pass along the northern path, and not stop."
"I would not intend a long stay, but we might be wise to at least pay our respects to King Thranduil. I'm sure that he would be aware of our passage in any case - no doubt he has scouts and defenders out along the borders of his lands, just as we do in Lothlórien. We ought also to be able to replenish our supplies there, more easily than by trading with Men," mused Haldir.
"Whatever you think is best," said Melpomaen, "since you are Lord Celeborn's messenger and I am only along for the pleasure of the journey!"
Haldir laughed. "A mixed pleasure it has been for you, too. Most folk would not consider a broken arm to be much of a delight."
"Ah, well, other things have made up for it," grinned Melpomaen. "As you well know."
With such banter that day and the next two passed quickly, despite an intermittent rain that made walking less enjoyable than usual. Haldir reckoned that they were within a day's travel of the Forest River where it emerged from the shadows of Mirkwood.
"If I remember the maps correctly, the caverns where King Thranduil and his court dwell are but a short way inside the eastern border of the forest, on the north side of the river," he told Melpomaen.
"Are the people hospitable to strangers?" asked Melpomaen, a touch nervously. Entering Dale had worried him less. He and Haldir had traveled there in the role of emissaries, messengers with their own king's authority behind them. Here they were simply travelers. Moreover, Dale was but a town of Men, and Melpomaen cared little what Men thought.
"I don't know for certain," confessed Haldir. "I cannot imagine that they would be hostile to other Elves, though a Dwarf or a Man might find a chillier reception. Although..." he wrinkled his brow, "it might be prudent of us not to say that we come from the Golden Wood. The king, perhaps, we should tell, but I have gathered the impression that there is not overmuch love lost between him and Celeborn. So his people may not even know of the folk of Lórien, and we should not interfere with our lord's policies of secrecy. We can simply put it about that we are from lands to the south, traveling on a private errand. That is close enough to the truth to serve."
"As you like, so long as we both tell the same story," said Melpomaen. "One more day, then, and we might be able to sleep in beds rather than on the ground!"
"Let's not be too hasty," cautioned Haldir. "I think it is one more day, but I have traveled this road no more often than you! As for beds, we shall see. I do not have any idea how we might be housed as guests."
"We could be lucky and be asked to share a room," said Melpomaen, his eyes gleaming as he stirred the pot with their evening meal.
"I do not know if that would be good luck or no; it could be dangerously tempting," Haldir said, taking the spoon from Melpomaen's hand to taste the stew.
"Dangerous?"
"I doubt that Thranduil's people would view us - two binn together - any differently from the way our own folk would. That is, most likely shocked, offended, even revolted at the very notion. So while we will accept whatever lodging we might be offered, we will need to be discreet. I could almost wish we had some lembas left, to mute desire. The idea of a hot bath, a soft bed, and you, Maen, is really very appealing."
"No hot bath and no soft bed here, I'm afraid," said Melpomaen. "In fact no bath at all since we left Celduin behind yesterday morn. But you do have me, if you wish for me..." he let his voice trail off.
Haldir smiled, saying, "And what better way to spend a damp and chilly evening? I presume you want your stew to cook a while longer?"
"Indeed." Melpomaen carefully moved the pot to one side of the fire, where it would simmer undisturbed.
Their lovemaking was as satisfying as always. Afterward, they rested, entangled in each other's arms, as their breathing slowed and flushed skins returned to normal. Melpomaen stroked Haldir's bare chest.
"It would be a shame, though," he said drowsily.
"What would be a shame?" Haldir propped himself up on one elbow to look inquiringly at his lover.
"To be sleeping alone in a bed when I would rather be with you. No, no, I will be good. Don't worry. I won't even look at you more than I can help; I am too likely to gaze admiringly and at some length," Melpomaen said.
"I hope you need not go that far," said Haldir. "It would seem quite as odd to anyone who paid attention, if we seemed to greatly dislike each other, though traveling together."
Melpomaen sighed. "This is too much to worry about. I almost do not wish to go."
"We need not, if you really don't want to," said Haldir.
"No, it will be fine, I'm sure," said Melpomaen. "It will be a change from the daily stew, at least. Speaking of which, are you ready for some?"
"Why not?" Haldir pulled his clothing back on. "Then I'll rest while you watch, and you can wake me mid-night as usual."
When Melpomaen did wake him, though, it was only a couple of hours into the first watch.
"I'm sorry to disturb you early, Dír, but there is something strange out there," he whispered.
"What? Not another bear? We are still only on the outskirts of the forest, so surely not spiders either?"
"No, undoubtedly not a spider. Look at the third limb of the beech tree over there," said Melpomaen.
Haldir looked carefully in the dim red light of the fire. There did seem to be something on the branch. As he gazed, he saw two pale lights appear, and as quickly vanish again. Eyes, but of no creature that he had ever seen. Far too large for a squirrel, too small for a bear, and utterly wrong for a great cat.
"Pass me my bow and quiver, Maen," he asked quietly, and stringing the bow, he fitted an arrow loosely to it and waited.
"Shoot," said Melpomaen urgently.
"No, not until it does something threatening. I do not recognize it and would not harm the innocent. Besides, I think it has perceived this as a threat already. See, it is leaving, whatever it is."
Indeed, a faint scrabbling noise suggested that the creature was climbing down out of the tree on the far side of the trunk, presumably to retreat out of range of any possible arrows.
"Probably too small to be a serious threat, but if it returns, wake me again," said Haldir. He returned to his blankets and to sleep, as Melpomaen paced the clearing, all senses alert for any return of the unknown beast.
15. New Faces
Once dawn had broken and there was light enough, Haldir examined the base of the beech to see if he could identify the tracks of the creature that had disturbed Melpomaen's watch the evening before. It had left little trace, but he found one patch where the rain of the previous days had made the ground muddy enough to capture several prints. He called his partner over.
"Look, there and there," he pointed.
"It looks to me like the footprints of an Elf or a Man," said Melpomaen.
"But that cannot be right, either. The creature was nowhere near as tall as a Man, much less an Elf, as far as I could see in the dark, and the prints are too shallow. Odd."
"Did you want to track it? It's had hours to get away – but I suppose it could have a den nearby."
Haldir considered, then said, "No, I think not. If we see it again, perhaps, but it seemed too small to be any real danger, and moreover we are near the king's dwelling by now – better to go directly there. Perhaps they will be able to tell us something of it."
To that Melpomaen agreed. They breakfasted quickly on cram and tea and moved northward, alert for any sign of the mysterious creature.
The sun, invisible behind thick cloud, was nearly overhead when Melpomaen stopped and tugged at his partner's arm.
"Listen," he hissed, inclining his head to the west.
The thin thread of a cry of grief drifted through the trees.
"Come," said Haldir, and they passed quickly among the rough trunks and underbrush, seeking the source of the sound.
In a clearing by a small stream they found a rough wooden cottage, clearly built by Man, not Elf. Its door stood ajar, and the anguished weeping of a woman issued from within.
The two Elves looked at each other. "Should we?" wondered Melpomaen.
"We might be able to offer some help. Let us at least see what distresses her so," said Haldir. He moved to the dwelling and tapped gently on the door before pushing it open.
Over Haldir's shoulder Melpomaen could see a woman huddled on the floor, her light-brown hair hanging in a tangle, her face tear-streaked. She clutched a small blanket, evidently the cover from the cradle that lay overturned on the floor, but no infant was there. A fresh cry escaped her at the Elves' entrance, and she scrabbled back away from the door.
Haldir stopped and held his open hands up to show that he meant no harm. He spoke in Westron. "What has happened here, lady?"
The kindly spoken words seemed to penetrate the fog of the woman's distress. She looked at him and answered at first haltingly, then in a spate of words that Melpomaen had difficulty following. When she finished, Haldir turned to his partner and explained.
"She says that her man is a woodsman; they have lived here for several years, and she bore a son early last spring. Her husband left a few days ago with several others to take a load of timbers down the river to Laketown. She and the boy remained; he was far too young to travel. Last night as she slept, someone or something entered the cabin and took her son from his cradle, leaving only the bloody blankets behind. She is sure that he is dead."
Haldir's fair face was grim. He stepped back outside and went to look at the ground below the single loosely-shuttered window. Melpomaen gestured silently. There at the base of the wall was a print of the same unshod foot that had puzzled them that morning.
"Too bad you held back your arrow last night," he said.
"So it seem. But we could not have known."
Returning to the woman still huddled inside, Haldir asked, "Can we help you somehow? Have you any kinsfolk nearby we could take you to?"
She shook her head.
Melpomaen whispered in Sindarin, "Do you think King Thranduil would offer refuge?"
"I have no idea, unless her husband is in his service." Kneeling down, he shifted back to the Common Tongue. "Do you look to the Elf-king as lord?"
The woman nodded hesitantly.
"Then we shall take you there to be cared for, until your husband's return."
The idea of leaving roused her to protest. "No. He would not know where to find me."
"Can he read the Tengwar?"
"Yes," she said, a brief flash of pride in her eyes at her husband's ability.
"I will write where you have gone," Haldir assured her. "With a piece of charcoal, here on the table where he cannot help but see it. You cannot stay here alone, perhaps for weeks, after this." He moved to a chest that stood against the wall by the bed and opened it. "Gather what clothes and other things you will need," he urged.
Vida – for so she named herself – walked slowly but steadily, shaking off the Elves' attempts to help her, insisting that she carry her own bundle. She was able to show them a place where they could all ford the Forest River. Though swift and deep for much of its course, a little way above its mouth a natural ridge of rock had caused the waters to spread wide and relatively shallow. Rafts had no trouble except in the driest summers, but deep-drafted boats had to be portaged.
Once across, a well-traveled path led to the dwelling of Mirkwood's king. They had gone only a short distance along it in the dimming light of a grey evening when a voice hailed them.
"Stop there, strangers. What seek you?"
Four Elves clad in green and brown stepped from the woods onto the path, two before and two behind the travelers.
"My companion and I hail from the lands south of this great forest," answered Haldir. "We travel on a private errand, and wished to pay our respects to King Thranduil as we passed near his realm. The woman here, Vida, lives south of your river. Her husband acknowledges your king as his lord. She has had a tragedy, her infant was lost this very morning, and with her man absent on business, she seeks refuge."
The leader of the patrol looked hard at Vida. "What is your husband's name?"
"Baldor," she said. "He is a kinsman of Beorn, to the west."
The Elf's face relaxed. "Baldor's name is known to me. You may claim refuge with us until his return." He turned again to Haldir and Melpomaen. "If you come from the south, my king will wish to greet you and hear whatever news you may bring. Do you require a healer?" His eyes flicked to Melpomaen's splinted arm, then away.
"It is probably not necessary, but my skills are limited, so it would be welcome," Haldir spoke before Melpomaen could reply.
"Come then, all of you, and I will take you to the king."
The great caverns of King Thranduil were bustling as they entered through the gates. Most of the inhabitants were Elves, but a few were Men who had taken service with the Elf-king. After paying her respects, Vida was led away among them.
Haldir and Melpomaen then stood before the king and bowed. The golden-haired Elf spoke for them both.
"Greetings to you, King Thranduil. I am Haldir, and my partner's name is Melpomaen. We hail from the lands south of Mirkwood, and have been traveling now for many weeks to pursue an errand in Dale. We had intended to return by the old Dwarf-road, but when Melpomaen was injured, we deemed it safer to take the northern route and avoid the regions near Dol Guldur. We ask your permission to rest here a few days before continuing our journey; in return we can offer news from Dale and the south, or would also be happy to perform any reasonable services for you in compensation."
Thranduil's brows had drawn together when Haldir skirted the question of their home, but now he smiled. "If you stay for a day or two, we shall have you all winter. The signs all point to early snows and a harsh season this year; I would be surprised if there is not snow within a week. Unless you are willing to risk being trapped out in the open wilds, I suggest you bide here for the winter. What skills can you offer in return?"
"We both have experience as scouts, and are trained with sword, knife, and bow, and to fight unarmed. I have some knowledge of herblore, and Melpomaen is a good camp cook. We have worked as partners for half-a-dozen years or so, now," said Haldir.
Bright eyes glanced keenly at Melpomaen. "How came you by your injury? Did you encounter some wild beast in the southern woods, and come off worst?"
A flush stained Melpomaen's cheeks. "No, sir. A clumsy fall, I'm afraid."
"I see." Thranduil arched an eyebrow. "Well, if you learn more caution by it, that will be to the good." He looked back at Haldir. "Very well. You, Haldir, can join the patrol roster tomorrow, and Melpomaen once he is able. You are both welcome to stay through the winter. I will have one of my sons assign you quarters and explain how matters are conducted here."
He beckoned, and as a younger Elf came up the steps of the dais, added, "Legolas is my youngest son. His three brothers all captain patrol bands as well; they are abroad just now, and it is Legolas whose company has the home guard duty at this time. He will want to hear whatever you can tell of this creature that has been attacking the families of my sworn woodsmen. And I will hear your news later, perhaps tomorrow; I will send for you when I have the time to spare."
Thranduil introduced the two travelers and explained their situation briefly to his son, dismissing them to return to his other duties. Legolas grinned cheerfully.
"With us for the winter, are you? I look forward to it. Perhaps you will have new skills to share with us, and we may teach you something as well." He led them out of the main hall and along a broad corridor with many rooms and other tunnels branching out from it.
"The king said you have been partners for some years, yes? We don't generally work in pairs, here, more often in fours or larger groups, especially on patrol. The spiders are dangerous for one or two to try to handle, you never know how many you'll run into. But space is at a premium just now in the caverns; it's always more crowded in winter when some of our outlying folk move in and the weather is too cold to sleep out." He considered the matter. "You're not quite regular guardsmen, of course, so I suppose if you're not in the barracks it will do no harm to morale, though it might make it harder for you to get to know your comrades."
Snapping his fingers, Legolas said, "I have it. If you don't mind sharing a bed – it is a large bed," he interrupted himself. "There is a guest room very near the guards' quarters, which is almost never used because of its inconvenient location. It was turned into a guest room originally because there is a little chamber off it that has a natural warm spring, making a perfect bathing pool, but as I say it's too far out of the way for most people. It would be perfect for you two, though, who are guests as well as guards-to-be. Does that sound as if would suit?"
Careful not to catch Melpomaen's eye, Haldir answered gravely that it sounded more than adequate to their needs.
"Good, good. I'll take you there and you can leave your things, then we'll get over to draw you some gear. You both have weapons already, I know, but since you'll be in my company and we're on guard duty this season," Legolas pulled a face, "we have to have you dress the formal part. I imagine you won't mind having an extra change or two of clothing, anyhow, if you've been traveling for many weeks. And here we are." He pushed a door open and flourished a bow. "Entirely at your disposal. Wait, take a candle in. There should be a lamp somewhere. I'll be back in half an hour to show you where to get your dinners, and we'll see to your clothes after that."
Melpomaen shut the door as Haldir found the lamp on the table and lit it, blowing out the candle and setting it aside to return to the sconce in the corridor later. The younger Elf sat on the edge of the bed and jounced it experimentally.
"Seems comfortable enough. I suppose the linen for it is in one of those chests." He cocked his head at Haldir. "What was it you said the other day about a hot bath, a soft bed, and me?"
Haldir laughed. "Mother always told me to be careful what I wished for, because I might get it. Not now, Maen, you know that as well as I do," he chided, as Melpomaen sprawled across the bed and patted the space beside him invitingly. "I must say that we have had a far warmer welcome than I had looked for. Let's not risk offending the prince right away by not being ready when he comes back."
"All right, Dír," grumbled Melpomaen, rising. "We should probably wash up, though, and I'll need your help with that a bit."
They quickly undressed and entered the bathing chamber. It was cunningly designed: the warm water trickled in continuously at one end, filling a natural depression in the rock that was about two feet deep and six feet across in each direction. An outlet at the bottom of the far end let the water escape at the same rate, but could be opened wider to drain the pool of dirtied water after bathing or closed to refill it again.
Standing knee-deep or more, they embraced. Haldir could feel his lover hard against him, and wished that Legolas had said an hour rather than half-an-hour, which time was already half-gone. Kissing Melpomaen on the cheek, he said, "Don't tempt me now, meldanya. We'll have plenty of time later."
Melpomaen put on a mischievous expression. "I will, at least until my arm is fully healed, but will you? Guard duties might keep you awfully busy. . . and Prince Legolas is quite handsome."
"As if that would make any difference." Haldir chuckled and reached for the soap. "You know I have only eyes for you."
"I know – that's why I made the joke, silly." He turned to let his lover wash his back.
Once clean, they dried off hastily and put their traveling clothes back on with some reluctance.
"Remind me to ask later what arrangements are available for laundry," muttered Haldir to Melpomaen as a knock sounded on the door and an immaculate Legolas stepped in.
"Ready? Then come with me."
Blowing out the lamp and taking the candle, Melpomaen followed the other two into the corridor.