If You Ask It

If You Ask It

Posted: September 22, 2006
Title: If You Ask It
Author: Sileya and Decadence
Fandom: Tolkien
Type: FCS
Characters: Eomer/Haldir
Rating: R
Disclaimer: We don’t know them, and we don’t claim to. We just like their faces and names.
Beta: hickorynut
Author's Notes: Movieverse, Haldir didn’t die. Yay!

Summary: Eomer finds a wounded Elf after the Battle of the Hornburg.

*****

Exhausted, Eomer led his horse through the breached wall of the Hornburg, looking past the stacks of dead as sorrow welled in his chest. But a call from above cheered him, his King waved from the bridge, astride his horse and well. The marshal waved back, walking along the stones and tethering his horse. He walked up the stone stairs, stepping over man, orc and elf, checking for survivors.

It seemed as if Haldir had been floating in a red-tinted haze for the better part of a day. He had been able to discern from the conversations that he'd heard that the battle had been successful and the Rohirrim had survived despite Saruman's greatest threats. Propped against the shambles of what was once part of the deeping wall, he watched as a rugged Rohirric warrior stepped over bodies, reaching down to check each one for signs of life.

Mustering his strength to move on, Eomer checked man after Elf, kicking the orcs aside. He turned his chin to glance to the wall and startled - he saw eyes peering back at him from the shadowed portion of the stones. Drawing his knife, he advanced cautiously in case it was an orc - it would not be the first he had found yet breathing.

Haldir sighed as the man caught sight of him and went on the offensive. He understood, but that did not make the feeling of having a knife flashed at him any easier to bear. He held a weak hand up in a sign of peace. "Please...I wish you no harm."

Blinking in surprise, Eomer sheathed his knife and pulled the heavy orc corpse off the fallen elf's legs. "Can you move?" he asked, searching the heavily bloodied body. "Are you badly injured?"

"Surface wound, upper back," Haldir grimaced and then sighed as the weight was removed from his legs. "I caught a glancing blow from an Uruk who meant to separate my head from the rest of me." Even then, he tried to use his humor to take the focus from the severity of his injuries. He could not bear to imagine being incapacitated for any length of time.

Checking the Elf's back, Eomer grimaced and shook his head in wonder. "The strength of the Eldar continues to amaze me," the warrior commented. "How long have you been here? You are soaked through," Eomer said, pulling at the sodden cloak on the Elf's shoulder.

"I recall fighting after the wall was breached, but I know not for how long. The last thing I remember was the call to fall back to the keep," Haldir replied, sighing in relief as the weight of his cloak was removed. "If you would but find some of my kinsmen, they would care for my wounds, and you would not be bothered."

"Accept my help, warden, you are most deserving of it. Had you and yours not arrived to help my people, they would not have survived to see the dawn and my cavalry," Eomer said quietly, pulling away the heavy material and pushing the tangled hair from the Elf's face. "Come, I will help you stand, and we will seek the healer together."

Haldir nodded, accepting the help without complaint. Slowly, he was levered to his feet. His knees nearly buckled beneath his weight, but he managed to maintain his balance with just a little help from the man. "Your cavalry? You are Lord Eomer, then?"

The warrior took the Elf's weight as he found his feet, then kept an arm about his waist. He could not tell how long the warden had been trapped there, but he knew even the Elves grew weary and took injuries. He had seen enough of their dead, after all. "I am Eomer," he acknowledged as they carefully stepped down the stone staircase. "And you, warden?"

"Haldir of Lorien, milord." Haldir used small steps, the action causing his pride to ache more than his back. "Our regiment arrived just before the rain did. We were told that Rohan needed us."

"She did, muchly, and we are supremely grateful for Lorien's assistance," Eomer replied, helping the Elf cross the courtyard littered with bodies and debris. He wished now he had removed his helm, he could not so easily turn his head to see the pale face and hair. He was curious, having not met many Elves. "We will do all we can to help heal your injured and ready the dead for transport back to your home."

Haldir lowered his head at the mention of the elves who lost their lives in battle. "Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel will greatly appreciate that." He found himself leaning heavily on the man as they neared an arched stone doorway. "Might I have a bath, Lord Eomer?"

"Merely Eomer will suffice," the warrior replied as he helped the injured Elf across the threshold, moving toward the Great Hall where the healers worked. "And I am sure a bath may be arranged once the healers take a look at you. I fear you lost quite a bit of blood." Eomer could feel his fatigue wearing on him, but at least he had saved this one Elf from lingering in pain.

As he was lowered to a pallet, Haldir squeezed the hand of the warrior who had probably saved his life. "Thank you, Eomer."

The warrior paused, then pulled off his helm with his free hand so he could look at the Elf properly. "You are quite welcome, Haldir," he replied, easing their arms into a warrior's clutch, palms grasping forearms. A tired smile tilted his lips. "I will find someone to tend your wounds," he said, for the first time meeting the Elf's eyes.

Haldir's breath quickened as he gazed at the blond-haired, hazel-eyed warrior for the first time. His grip tightened on the arm he held.

Eomer felt shaken, paused in time, as he was arrested by the bluest eyes he had ever seen. He opened his mouth to speak, but no words came as he was caught in the shimmering gaze, stunned at the depth of age, experience, pain and loneliness he could read there.

"You..." Haldir whispered, held prisoner by the gaze. The lady had suggested to him that he would find either an end to life or a reason to live in this battle. He could feel her whispering her agreement in his mind.

Blinking and breaking the gaze, Eomer dropped his chin, feeling his cheeks flush. "Excuse me," he said quietly, embarrassed at being caught gazing like a schoolchild. He pulled his arm free, gathered his helmet and strode off in search of a healer, trying to gather his composure.

Haldir gazed after the man, shocked beyond words or action at being left so quickly. He had always imagined the fall would be immediate. Stunned, he sat alone as he waited for a healer.

Eomer found a healer and sent him to the Elf he had left behind, still unaccountably ashamed by his headlong flight away from the pallet. Shaking himself, he strode out of the hall, determined to seek a bath and food for himself before going back out to continue the search for survivors.

==

Haldir was checked by the healer, declared severely injured but on the mend, and sent to a room. He'd been sitting on his bed for some time, waiting for a bath to be brought to his room. Deciding to go in search of someone who could point him to the public baths instead, he opened the door to his room and glanced outside, frowning at the heavy traffic in the hallways. "A bath can wait," he muttered, returning to the bed, where he lay down to rest, eyes closing wearily.

His curiosity and concern driving him back to the hall to check on Haldir, Eomer was dismayed to discover the Elf had been dispatched to a room. The warrior had sharp words with the healers for sending such a severely injured patient off alone, but the tired men and women paid him no heed, instead pointing him in the right direction. Shaking his head in annoyance, Eomer followed their directions to a closed door, where he rapped firmly.

"Enter," Haldir called, thinking his bath had finally arrived. He didn't move from his spot on the bed, choosing instead to wait until the tub was filled and ready for him to use.

"Haldir?" Eomer asked quietly as he stepped inside the door, looking around the small room.

At the sound of Eomer's voice, Haldir pushed into a sitting position. "Yes, Lord Eomer? Is something wrong?"

Tilting his head, Eomer looked at the Elf in exasperation. The warden was still dressed in his blood-soaked clothing, filthy from head to toe. "Not at all, except that hours have passed, and you are still an exhausted mess. Wait but a moment..." The warrior stepped outside, caught someone and commanded a large cask of heated water, soap and cloths be brought to the room immediately, as well as bread, meat and ale. The two women bowed deeply in respect and ran off. Nodding, Eomer turned back to Haldir. "Those bedamned healers, sending you back here by yourself," he muttered, crossing the room to stand near Haldir. "Come, we need to remove these clothes. A bath is coming."

"I assured them I could handle my own healing," the stubborn elf muttered. "I feel better in a quiet room than in a hall full of wailing people who needed more assistance from the healers than I did."

"Which is why you lay here in soiled clothes, unfed and unwashed?" Eomer asked sharply before drawing himself up and sighing. "I apologize. You deserve better treatment than this, both from me and my people. Please allow me to find someone to assist you, if you will not accept my help."

"I do not contest your assistance, my lord. I merely wish to remain here. Please do not send me back to the healing halls." Haldir turned a filthy and weary face up to catch the first glimpse of a clean Eomer. "I do not wish to sully your clothing though, Lord Eomer. I can bathe on my own if a bath is brought."

The warrior crouched down next to the bed, bringing his eyes to Haldir's level, and he was quiet for a time as he studied the Elf's tired face. "I asked you to call me Eomer," he pointed out mildly. "And I would not offer my assistance if I did not want to give it."

Haldir lowered his eyes. "Then I will accept it."

Eomer almost reached out to lightly touch Haldir's chin, but a knock came at the door, startling him, and he stood, moving to let in the women who came laden with food, drink and washing water. Once he thanked and dismissed them, he turned back to the Elf. "What first, then? Wash or food?"

Belly rumbling, Haldir glanced down at his body. "Wash. I cannot bear the thought of touching food with these filthy hands."

Nodding, Eomer brought the cask nearer, along with the soap and cloths. Tamping down on the nervousness in his belly, he told himself to treat the Elf just as one of his riders, no more, no less. He stood and moved to help Haldir pull off the dirty, cut up tunic, wincing as it pulled heavy scabbing free from the Elf's back.

Haldir chewed at his lip, unwilling to make even the smallest sound as the pain of the wound being reopened caused his breathing to falter slightly. Instead, he covered his discomfort by pushing his leggings down and stepping into the steaming water.

Eomer looked over the wounds on his back critically. "I know that must have hurt, but I believe the wounds look better for it," he allowed, offering Haldir a clean cloth. In truth, they did, without the blackened, dirty blood dried through his clothing, holding the dirt of battle.

"I am certain they do look much improved," Haldir rasped, taking the soft cloth and a bar of soap. Creating a lather, he began to wash away the filth of battle.

"May I be of help to you in any way?" Eomer offered faintly, the expanse of pale skin arresting, even under the dust and grime.

Haldir turned his head, filthy hair trailing over his shoulder. "Could you wash my hair? I do not think I can reach it."

The warrior swallowed and nodded, reaching for a smaller cup from their food tray and filling it with water. "There is no way to keep the water and soap from your back," he cautioned, knowing it would likely be painful.

"I do not mind," Haldir whispered, gripping the rim of the cask tightly. "It must be done."

"Would you trust me enough to bend your head forward?" Eomer asked, knowing he was still a stranger to this Elf. "I could then spare your back more of the pain." He suppressed a shiver, looking at the angry wounds marring the smooth, perfect skin of Haldir's back. It was a terrible travesty to see such beauty marred, Eomer thought distantly.

Haldir looked up long enough to meet Eomer's gaze. In the hazel eyes, he could see his future, even if the man did not realize it yet. Silently, he stood in the cask before lowering himself once more onto his knees. Bending forward, he presented himself to Eomer.

Eomer's breath caught as Haldir met his eyes, unflinching and calm. He shook himself as the Elf knelt in the water, seeing him prostrate before him made his heart pound. Carefully, with shaking hands, the warrior brushed Haldir's hair to each side of his shoulders and started pouring the warm water over it, using his hands to shield his back from any splashes. He took his time, making sure the hair was well soaked from scalp to end, before reaching for the soap.

Eomer's gentle hands on his body caused Haldir's heart rate to speed. He closed his eyes, chewing his lip once more as a sensation other than pain began to flood his body.

As gently as his large hands could manage, he massaged Haldir's scalp with the soap, trying to make sure he got all the dirt and blood, then he rubbed the long locks between his hands to cleanse them as well. Dipping his cup back into the water, he began rinsing, keeping at it until the rivulets ran clear from the Elf's hair, which practically shined, even when wet. He sat back and drew a shuddering breath. "It is finished," he whispered.

Haldir lifted his bowed head, "Thank you." He reached out to touch Eomer's wet hand where it rested on the rim of the cask. "For all you have done for me."

Shivering as he felt Haldir's hand cover his, Eomer raised his eyes as well, once again meeting those glittering blue orbs that so captivated him. He felt caught in them, and all he could do was nod.

Their gazes held for several long moments before a loud rumble made Haldir flush. He lowered his eyes. "My body demands sustenance."

The warrior felt spurred into movement by the soft words just as he would spur his horse. He practically jumped up, reaching for the large heavy cloth and holding it up for the Elf to wrap around himself. He offered an arm for balance while Haldir stepped out of the cask.

Haldir stood carefully, letting most of the water drip from his body before stepping carefully from the cask and into the large cloth Eomer held for him. Stepping closer, the man's arms closed around him automatically, settling the warm cloth over his chilled skin.

Wrapping his arms around the Elf from behind as he covered him with the cloth, Eomer tarried a moment, feeling Haldir's muscular beauty in his arms. He leaned forward to breathe in the scent of him as silently as he could, and with a start, pulled back as he realized what he was doing. Shocked, Eomer flushed, and as soon as Haldir raised his hands to hold the cloth, he moved to retrieve the food tray.

Haldir felt oddly cold and alone as Eomer stepped away from him. He dried his body as best he could before folding it and draping it over the end of the bed. Slipping under the covers, he pulled them up to his waist, not daring to lie down just yet.

Carrying the tray over, Eomer carefully set it across Haldir's legs. "Would you care for a clean tunic? I can retrieve one easily," he offered quietly, standing a bit awkwardly at the side of the bed. He wanted to sit here and watch the Elf, but for the life of him he could not determine why. He felt so drawn to this Haldir.

"Please, sit a while with me. I need..." He was uncertain how to express his need for contact after lying with the dead for so long at the end of battle.

Blinking owlishly, Eomer sank to perch on the edge of the bed. "I...do not wish to intrude," he said quietly.

"No! 'Tis not an intrusion. I appreciate the company," Haldir assured the man. He reached across to touch Eomer's arm, once again needing a physical connection to life.

The warrior froze as he felt sparks spring through him, his eyes flying to the Elf's, wondering if he was feeling the same thing.

Haldir's grip tightened and he met Eomer's gaze. "Do you...." His voice trailed off as he grew frightened of voicing his feelings.

Slowly Eomer raised his free hand and placed it lightly atop Haldir's hand, completing the connection and shivering as their eyes met again. "Have you...enchanted me?" he asked in a whisper, unable to look away from the absolute beauty he saw in Haldir's eyes.

Haldir shook his head, lowering his gaze. "I have done nothing but touch you, Lord Eomer."

Blinking as the gaze was broken, he looked down to see the Elf's hand clasped in his own. "Aye, nothing but touch me," he murmured, his own fingers lightly caressing Haldir's smooth skin.

Each caress of the sword and bow-roughened fingers against the back of his hand sent fissions of sensation zinging through Haldir's body. He turned his hand in Eomer's grasp, tightening his fingers around the hand that held his.

Closing his fingers about the Elf's, Eomer looked down at their entwined hands. "Tell me of your home," he requested gruffly, not sure what to talk about besides the war.

Looking up at the young warrior, Haldir began to describe his home. "Lorien is beautiful. They call her 'The Golden Wood', and she has earned the title. Lofty mallorns as far as the eye can see, reflecting the sun's rays. We live in the trees, in flets or talans. They're more than mere tree houses," he chuckled, thinking about Galadriel's and Celeborn's magnificent talan. "The trees protect us. They give us life. They watch us grow." He glanced around the heavily furnished room, the large wooden furniture contrasting with huge gray stones. "Tell me about Rohan. Surely the keep is not all there is..."

Eomer shook his head. "No, 'tis not. In fact, the Hornburg is solitary in its existence. Our capital is the Meduseld, a small city built atop a rocky hill in the center of the plains. But the greatest amount of our people live in villages that move with the herds on the plains." His eyes unfocused, the green in them flickering. "The rolling plains are our home, with the horses. We ride the waves of grain much like mariners ride the seas. Wide open spaces and the clear scent of nature nurture us. These stone walls..." his eyes focused, and he shook his head. "Although this is our history, I am not comfortable here."

Haldir nodded in agreement. "I cannot see you tolerating a life such as this. I see you with your mount, hair flying in the wind that ruffles the grain."

A small smile curled the marshal’s lips. "Aye. And I see you, walking amongst a forest of giant trees, the sunlight filtering through the leaves," he answered.

Haldir's voice lowered to a rough whisper. "Do you think there is a place where the plains and forest meet?”

Frowning slightly, Eomer searched his memory. "I know the great haunted forest lies to the north and west, east of the Gap of Rohan, while another vast forest lies much further to the north, above the river branch, even beyond the Wold," he said. "I have heard tales of Elves there, above the river. Is that your home?"

"I have spent all of my days in that forest. I have served my lord and lady faithfully. They ask little of me." Haldir's eyes lifted to meet Eomer's gaze. "I fear that soon they will ask me to return to my home. I should not fear that, but I am afraid if I leave, I should never see you again."

Startled, Eomer leaned back a bit, blinking at the Elf. He knew he felt that way, although he could not discern why. But for him to feel the same? His fingers tightened in about Haldir's. "Why...why would you fear that?" he asked quietly.

"Do you not feel it?" Haldir's eyes widened. "The flow of life that surrounds us when you touch me? I have never felt that in all of my years."

The horse lord's eyes widened, giving away that he had felt it, as well. "I...knew not what to make of it," he murmured. "Exhaustion, adrenaline, battle mirage..." he shook his head, a bit of concern tinting his gaze. "I do not know what it means. Except that in this short handful of hours, you have consumed my thoughts and held my attention like nothing else."

A soft smile crossed the archer's face. "It is not normal for the nephew of the King to entertain guests?"

A somewhat abashed smile appeared on Eomer's face. "The nephew of the King prefers to spend his time in the saddle as far from the court as possible. But these are difficult times, and until just recently my uncle was under the sway of evil. My leadership was needed in the capital, despite my personal wishes."

"And your wishes now?" Haldir asked, leaning slightly toward the battle-hardened warrior.

Changeable eyes focused on the Elf, and unthinking, Eomer lifted his hand to rub Haldir's cheek with the backs of his knuckles. "I want my people to be free of shadow. I want to ride the plains, free. And I want to know you."

Leaning into the gentle touch, Haldir smiled once more. "I will grant that wish." He turned his head, lips grazing over scarred knuckles.

Heart skipping, Eomer's breath caught as he stared at the Elf, hardly able to believe his ears. "You...will?"

"I wish to know you as well," Haldir's voice was low but hopeful, vibrating against the fingers near his lips.

Joy nearly echoing a child's leapt in Eomer's eyes though he kept his face well-schooled. With a shuddering breath he lightly pressed his lips to the Elf's lips in a tentative caress. "Indeed, you have bewitched me, and I care not," he whispered.

Shaking his head minutely, causing his lips to brush over the lightly bearded face of the man, Haldir chuckled. "Nay. 'Tis you who have bewitched me."

Sitting back, Eomer snorted, seeming to relax a little. "I am but a Man, whereas you are a being of light and magic. I see not how that is possible, but for now..." his voice dropped to a low rasp. "I will not question it."

When Eomer backed away from the kiss, Haldir's hand followed without thought, caressing the light smattering of hair that covered the lower half of the man's face. He smiled at the coarse texture, eyes riveted to the ginger hair that outlined the supple mouth. "I do not question it, either. If it keeps you here, it is welcome."

"I cannot stay long," Eomer said regretfully. "I have responsibilities." He reached to ever so lightly touch a lock of Haldir's hair.

"I wish for any time you may grant me," Haldir whispered after much consideration.

"Very little of my time is my own," the warrior murmured. "But what I have, I will spend with you." He shook his head slowly, eyes still evincing wonder. "I think you are an angel, sent from the Valar."

An indulgent smile spread across Haldir's face. "I will not attempt to sway you to think otherwise, for I like being called an angel by someone such as you." His thumb brushed the corner of Eomer's mouth.

Eomer's lips quirked slightly, and he inclined his head in response, then he sighed regretfully. "I must go. And you need to eat and rest,” he said quietly, making to rise.

As Eomer leaned forward, preparing to rise, Haldir leaned forward as well, lips touching the corner of mouth that his fingers had touched. He smiled as he lay down gently on his side. "Thank you for the time you've given ‘til now."

Lightly touching his fingers to where Haldir's mouth had pressed, Eomer nodded silently and stood, walking to the door. He looked back then at the Elf, something inside him urging him to stay, wanting to stay, but his instilled sense of responsibility drove him back to his duties. Quietly, he departed.

Haldir closed his eyes, still feeling Eomer’s presence, even as he left the room. He reached out, wanting to follow the man as far as his limited abilities would allow.

==

It was late at night, long after the moon had set, when Eomer was able to steal back to Haldir's room. Utterly exhausted and weaving on his feet, he still wanted to check on the Elf. His sister had urged him to find his bed, worried about his pallor and the shadows under his eyes, but he had rebuffed her concern lightly, claiming the responsibilities of his station took precedence. He quietly opened the door, peering inside.

Haldir had dozed, lost in reverie for several hours when the barest hint of noise beyond his door woke him. He watched as Eomer looked inside, lifting a hand to beckon the man into the room.

The warrior's face pinched in disapproval. "You should be sleeping," he observed, crossing his arms as he stopped at the bedside.

The extended hand fell back to the bed as Eomer loomed above Haldir. "I have been resting since you left me."

Eomer harrumphed, tilting his head to look over the Elf's face, noting some of the lines were gone. His eyes softened a bit. "Are you in much pain?" he asked quietly.

"Nothing I cannot bear," he answered softly. He dared to glance up and meet Eomer's gaze, heart lurching at the grief held within their depths. "Sit with me...rest with me. You have had a sorrowful eve, have you not?"

Closing his eyes for a long moment to keep his emotions in check, Eomer sat on the edge of the bed, as before, arms still crossed over himself. "So much death," he said listlessly. "For so long. Men I have trained and led in battle. The old and infirm, the young boys who sought to protect their mothers and sisters when they should not have to. My cousin..." the warrior's jaw worked painfully, but he opened dry eyes. "Will it ever end?" he murmured.

Struggling to sit, Haldir rose to rest against Eomer's back. "The days of the King are coming. We will see peace again. Those who died did so honorably. We must now honor their sacrifices."

Feeling Haldir's weight leaning against his back, Eomer did not move. "Sacrifice. Sometimes I fear it will be the end of Rohan," he murmured. "Sometimes I fear it will be the end of Man."

Haldir lifted a hand to Eomer's shoulder, massaging gently at the tensed muscles beneath his fingertips. "We must have faith. The days are dark, but the good will reign again."

"I fight for Rohan and for my king," Eomer said tiredly. "Faith has nothing to do with it." He raised a hand to rub at his eyes and sighed heavily. "And will my people live to see the days when darkness is defeated?" He shook his head, thinking of the scores who had died here at the Hornburg.

Haldir pressed his head against the back of Eomer's neck, eyes clenched tightly closed as scenes of battle flashed across his inner vision. "The battle will be long, and there will be many losses, but you will live to see the defeat of evil."

The warrior's shoulders stiffened, then sagged in exhaustion. "Have you the power of foresight, then?" he asked in a thread of a voice.

"At times, when the subject of the vision is near and dear to me," the Elf whispered, voice muffled in the long, thick hair that hung down Eomer's back.

Shivering, Eomer shifted without warning, turning on the bed to catch Haldir's body in his arms and pull him close, burying his face in the Elf's hair, seeking some comfort he could not name.

Haldir's arms closed around Eomer's torso, holding the trembling man tightly. He could hear the hitching breath...feel the minute jerks as the man's sorrow overwhelmed him.

He could not cry - although it was in him, he was far past that point. Instead, all the disbelief and horror flooded back and his body rebelled, shaking as he simply could not process all that had happened. He found solace in Haldir's arms, enough to help him keep from falling apart, and he clutched the Elf close.

Humming softly as he held the man in his arms, Haldir eased them down onto the bed until Eomer was stretched in front of him. He still kept a tight grip around the sorrowful man, his lips caressing gently over the bearded face.

Allowing himself to weaken here, in the deepest night, in the arms of his newfound ally, Eomer let the Elf guide them down to lay next to one another, and he could feel the warmth from the warden's body. It comforted him, and as he felt the light touch of Haldir's lips, his eyes fluttered shut. He did not resist.

Haldir did not dare to take advantage of Eomer's grief. Instead, he held the man carefully and firmly in his grasp.

His neck relaxed, and Eomer laid his head upon Haldir's shoulder, pillowing it there, their bodies curled about one another. Loath to move, he decided he would stay until the warden asked him to leave. Only within the deep recesses of his heart did he dare apply that thought to more than the few hours remaining in this night.

As the man relaxed against him, Haldir asked in a quiet whisper, "Stay with me?"

Eomer's eyes opened to meet gleaming blue orbs, startling in their clear color. "As long as I may," he whispered in reply.

Nodding, Haldir's arms tightened around Eomer, and he closed his eyes as he soaked in the presence of the Man. Sighing, the warrior laid in place, drawing comfort from the Elf's embrace, and he was finally able to doze off for the first time in three days.

Haldir woke once in the night, feeling the steady breathing of the man in his bed. He smiled before closing his eyes once more. The sun was high when a servant timidly opened the door, checking on the recuperating Elf, and gasping in surprise at seeing the horse Lord in his arms. But the older woman immediately smiled gratefully, holding her tongue.

Haldir was roused by the soft noises the older human made. He returned her smile, gesturing to the bathing cask in his room. He had the feeling that Eomer would appreciate a hot bath.

The woman brightened and nodded, leaving the room immediately. After four trips in and out, there was hot water for washing, soap and cloths, a tray of food and water for drinking, and a long, thick robe and towels. With a grateful curtsy, the woman departed.

Haldir dared to press his lips to Eomer's ear, whispering, "Wake, Eomer, a bath awaits you..."

Stirring from a deep sleep he had not found for months on end, Eomer cracked open a bleary eye. "Hmm?" he rumbled quietly.

"A bath has been brought. 'Tis steaming hot if you wish to relax fully," Haldir urged quietly.

Eomer's lips twitched. "I am relaxed fully," he murmured, not yet moving a muscle.

Haldir's hands slid down Eomer's flank, daring in the half-light of dawn. "You do not wish to share my bath?"

The warrior's brow raised in a lazy show of interest. "Oh, you will be in the bath as well?" he drawled huskily, the sleep and warmth and comfort combining to loosen his demeanor and tongue.

"I would like to bathe in water that isn't stagnant with the filth of battle, as last night's bath proved to be," Haldir answered honestly. "And the thought of returning the favor of washing your hair makes me smile."

Blinking, as if he had not expected Haldir to respond so, Eomer's cheeks flushed. "I...agree," he murmured.

"You will join me?" Haldir's lips puckered into a pout.

The warrior nodded slowly, feeling a nervous fluttering in his belly, as well as a curious warmth.

Still bare under the covers, Haldir's hands crept to the fastenings of Eomer's tunic. "Shall I help you disrobe?"

Nodding slowly, Eomer discerned that tenuous connection between them flaring to life again. He calmed, knowing he was safe in Haldir's hands.

Haldir tugged gently at the laces holding the white shirt together, drawing in a shaking breath when the lapels fell apart to bare a golden, muscular chest to his eyes. He looked up, eyes asking permission as his hand moved over the light covering of darker hair.

The marshal nodded once again, inhaling as he felt Haldir's hand touch his skin, which seemed sensitized to his touch. Eomer had felt the touch of a man before - warriors finding some comfort and release with each other in the dark of the night - but it was usually hot and fast and rushed. This...this was totally different than anything in his experience. It was...tender.

Haldir's fingers teased over the exposed flesh, delighting in the textures and reactions. He watched the man's face carefully, not wanting to trespass. Taking the initiative to move slightly, Eomer rolled to his back, exposing more skin to Haldir's touch.

Rising on an elbow, Haldir slid his hand from the muscled chest, down over fluttering muscles, to the leather breeches the man wore. Tugging at a lace, he dipped his head and pressed a kiss to a flexing abdominal muscle.

Inhaling sharply, Eomer sighed in a shudder, feeling the heat seep into his veins with each beat of his heart. Each touch of Haldir's fingers and lips fanned the buzzing within him...and the warrior knew he wanted the Elf. Passionately.

Haldir breathed in sharply as he unlaced the breeches, revealing the Man's body to his sight. He had never been with a Man before. Male Elves, yes, but Men, no. The contrast between what he knew and what he saw made his heart beat faster.

Swallowing hard, Eomer didn't know what to make of Haldir's reaction. He'd never known any shame of his body, but now, faced with the pale, smooth perfection of the Elf's skin, he wasn't so sure. "I hope...I do not offend," he managed in a strangled murmur.

Haldir's gaze flew to meet Eomer's. "No! You do not offend at all. I find you beautiful. More beautiful than anything I've ever seen."

The man slowly shook his head, raising a hand to cup Haldir's cheek. "Surely you pluck my own words from my mind, as they are my thoughts of you," he said.

A soft smile curved Haldir's lips, and he moved up the bed to hover over Eomer's reclined form. His lips touched the man's, pressing softly.

Eomer's eyes closed again and he focused on the gentle impact of Haldir's lips upon his own, and he gasped quietly, partly his lips to kiss back carefully, not sure what he would be allowed. Each touch of his lips to Haldir's thrilled him, and that odd connection vibrating between them seemed to warm and turn golden.

Framing Eomer's face with his hands, Haldir opened his mouth, asking for more. The pulse between them pounded violently at the action, causing Haldir's head to spin slightly. With a soft groan, Eomer caught Haldir's lower lips between his own, suckling gently before tentatively extending his tongue to bathe the skin.

The touch of Eomer's tongue to his lips sent a thrill more exciting than any reaction he'd ever had through his body. Haldir met the caress with his tongue, returning it again and again.

The marshal relaxed all at once, pulling Haldir closer, his mouth and tongue sliding along the Elf's. His flavor was so sweet...Eomer moaned happily.

Humming his pleasure, Haldir moved slightly over Eomer, hands braced above the Man's shoulders. When the kiss broke, he moaned, "Hot bath..."

Sighing regretfully, Eomer let his head fall back against the bed. "Aye," he murmured.

Rising from the bed, unashamed of his nudity, Haldir helped Eomer to rise, slipping the clothing off of his body until he was nude as well. His eyes feasted on the heavier body of the Man, his hands touching unabashedly.

The warrior was content to look his fill, the red scars and bruises from battle doing nothing to take away from the Elf's beauty. He walked over to the steaming cask. "Are you feeling well enough to be up?" he asked solicitously.

Nodding, Haldir followed Eomer to the bath. "If you will allow me to bathe with you, the heat will make us both feel better."

Shrugging, Eomer climbed into the cask, kneeling down in the hot water, then settling to his rump with a sigh, extending his legs. "One of the few luxuries I indulge in," he murmured.

Bracing one hand on the rim of the cask and the other hand on Eomer's shoulder, Haldir stepped into the cask as well, settling at the opposite side of the large tub. "A nice bath is pleasure unequalled."

Chuckling, Eomer raised a hand to help Haldir remain steady until they both relaxed in the cask, the water lapping dangerously at the edge, still steaming. The warrior felt more knots and kinks relax in his back and legs.

Reaching beneath the water, Haldir's hands settled on the soles of Eomer's feet. He began to knead them carefully, desiring to bring pleasure to his host.

A long, suffering groan poured out of Eomer. "Oh Valar," the warrior hissed, his face contorting in pleasure.

Haldir's face lit up. "You enjoy that?"

An unmanly whimper escaped his lips, and Eomer nodded frantically.

Haldir continued the massage, pleased at bringing the Man pleasure.

Setting his neck back against the edge of the cask, the Man sighed and relaxed, letting his eyes fall shut. "Truly you are skilled," he said quietly.

The Elf shrugged, water lapping dangerously at the edge of the cask. "After many long tours on the fences of Lorien, I learned to do this for myself."

Opening one eye and raising a brow, Eomer looked at the Elf. "Was there no one to minister to you at home?" he asked, curious.

"I have brothers, back home defending my land as I fight here, but no one else. I always liked the solitude of being alone. Now, I find that I desire company." Haldir admitted in a quiet voice.

"Now?" Eomer asked, wondering if Haldir meant this century or this moment.

"Recently," Haldir clarified. "My lady has told me of visions she has had. Visions of me happy with another. I confess they make me crave that closeness."

The Man's lips pressed close. "What is she like? I have heard tales, of course. Of the most beauteous elf-woman one might see, of the witch of the forest whose moods are as capricious as the weather."

"She is just and lovely," Haldir defended his lady. "She is not understood by those who are not familiar with the ways of the Elves. She is tall and blonde and has the beauty of frost on a winter morn."

Not taking offense, Eomer nodded. "I used to think about making a trip to the forest. Rarely do we range so far north as Fangorn, much less further afield. We of Rohan are tied to our plains by our blood. But I always thought I would like to meet an Elf."

"And so you have." A grin spread slowly across Haldir's face. "Is he as you thought Elves would be?"

Eomer opened his other eyes and studied Haldir quietly for a long moment before slowly shaking his head. "No. I had...no concept of the ferocity and loyalty that could come from such immortal beings."

A soft chuckle escaped Haldir's smiling lips. "You thought we'd be mild and accepting?"

The warrior frowned. "No. Rather...I expected to be looked down upon. What is a Man's life to an Elf's? I cannot comprehend why you would care."

"Just because it is not as lengthy, does not mean it is of lesser value. You are very important to your people, Eomer. Perhaps more important than I am to my own kind." Haldir's hand slid along Eomer's calf, kneading gently as they talked.

Raising a shoulder, Eomer sighed. "Not so much so my entire life until only a fortnight ago, when my cousin was killed by orcs. And so my uncle is left without a successor, but for me and my sister, Theoden's sister's get. I know 'tis the way of things, but I never wanted to rule Rohan," he said quietly.

"As the lady is, so will you be a kind and just ruler," Haldir pointed out. "Throughout your years as king, Rohan will prosper," he predicted.

Gazing at Haldir, Eomer's eyes were troubled, but he did not comment. "And what of you, Haldir? Surely you are of notable rank amongst your kind."

Haldir's gaze lowered, focusing on his knee, which rose above the water line. "I have been promised retirement when I return from Man's battle."

The man frowned. "Retirement? I do not understand."

"I have fought in many battles," the elf explained. "My lady promised I would find my heart's greatest desire if I survived battle at the Hornburg. I do not wish to spend my years fighting when I could be loving instead."

Shaking his head slowly, Eomer trailed his fingers through the water. "We are so different," he said quietly. "But after this war, I certainly understand. I, too, would welcome the end of conflict and bloodshed."

"Different?" Haldir asked, fingers meeting Eomer's. "How so?"

A ghost of a smile lurked about Eomer's lips. "Such a concept as retiring from battle. In Rohan, 'tis a way of life. We can live no differently and hope to survive. You saw the way of it, our elders and children on the walls..." he cut off his words, looking down at the water.

"But if there is no war?" Haldir asked, voice soft and low.

"Still there is the struggle to live. If not orcs, then Haradrim. If not Haradrim, then pirates. If not pirates, then the weather. 'Tis the way of Men, to eke out existence on this earth," Eomer explained dully.

"Is there no one to bring you respite? Joy?" Haldir felt pity well in his heart for this doomed being.

The man relaxed a little. "Do not let me mislead you, Haldir. There is much joy in our lives. Our families, our land, our horses. Festivals and celebrations simply for seeing the sun. We love strongly and often in our lives, do the men and women of Rohan." Eomer seemed detached from his words, although it was clear he meant them.

"You love often?" The words seemed alien to Haldir. "Elves love once. We may tarry with others, but our heart is given but once."

"I suppose it is different for each man and woman. Some love with their bodies, some with their hearts. We find no shame in either, as long as that love is celebrated," Eomer said, shifting with an uncomfortable grunt and relaxing again.

At the sound of the grunt, Haldir's eyes met Eomer's. "Do you feel pain? Can I relieve it for you?"

Eomer sighed and shook his head. "I am tired and sore. The battle was long, and we rode hard for a full day before that." He looked up at Haldir. "And you? Are you healing well?"

Haldir's shoulders lifted in a shrug. "Tis but a small twinge now and again. Nothing to keep an Elf down for long." He slid forward in the water, hands sliding unthinkingly along Eomer's arms until he massaged tense shoulder muscles.

Blinking as Haldir moved closer, sliding between Eomer's outstretched legs, the warrior let his head fall forward, hair trailing over his neck and into the water. "I cannot remember the last time I ached so," he murmured. "This war is never ending, it seems."

One hand sliding to brace Eomer's neck, Haldir dipped his free hand into the water, using a soft cloth to wet the warrior's chest. "You need rest. Peace. You need release."

Sighing in resignation, Eomer lifted weary eyes to look at the Elf working to soothe him. "Rest will come with my death," he said softly, almost longingly. But he did not move away from Haldir's touch.

Haldir turned in the cask, pushing back against Eomer's chest in a bold move. He pulled the warrior's arms around him. "Rest with me while I remain. Do not speak of death. It has no hold on us."

Slowly, Eomer moved his arms about Haldir and pulled him close, finding some comfort in his closeness. He lowered his head to press his nose into the Elf's soft hair, and for long moments he just remained still and breathed.

"Do not think on the morrow. Consider only this day," Haldir whispered. "For we are not promised another." Leaning his head back onto Eomer's shoulder, he turned and inhaled the man's scent.

It felt right to pull Haldir closer into his arms, up against his chest as the elf shifted again, so Eomer did. He had already discovered that the world seemed a bit less bleak with the shining Elf in his arms. And if Haldir found comfort in him as well...all the better for them both.

Haldir's hands spread over Eomer's bare thighs beneath the water, sliding back and forth over the hair-dappled muscles. "Can we agree to comfort each other?" he whispered, voice barely discernible above the splashing water.

Eomer's breath stilled in his chest for a long moment, then he released it with a shudder and a nod. "Yes," he murmured, turning his lips against Haldir's ear.

Haldir let the Man's soft lips rest against his ear for only a moment before turning his head up and catching them with his own lips. He moved gently, not wanting to frighten the warrior by sudden movement or intense actions.

The Elf's lips were warm and soft and moist, and Eomer felt himself relax a bit more, wishing he could twine himself about Haldir's body, just to feel himself surrounded and protected, for once. He pressed back against those lips, slowly, as desire and passion did not drive this meeting, but a need for closeness.

The kiss was slow and exquisite and perfect. Haldir found himself twisting in the water to maintain contact. His arms surrounded Eomer, needing to hold the Man as tightly as possible. Lifting a hand to push back stray locks of hair curled by the humidity and heat of the water, he looked into green eyes. "If you do not wish this to happen, I will stop."

Eomer's tongue darted out to lick his own lower lip, tasting Haldir, when the Elf pulled away. He watched him with shimmering eyes. "I do wish this," he murmured. "Let us finish our bath," he suggested. "I would like to hold you close."

Nodding, Haldir lifted the cloth once more, cleaning Eomer's chest. "Shall I wash your hair?"

The warrior nodded. "Then I will return the favor," he replied.

Reaching for a nearby bowl, Haldir urged Eomer to lean forward. Dipping water over the blond tresses, Haldir began to work a slow, thorough lather. His fingertips massaged and soothed the man's scalp, offering comfort in his touch.

Eomer groaned in appreciation. "Perhaps I shall keep you on to perform this service for me," he drawled quietly.

Haldir stilled for a moment, in the middle of dipping water to rinse with. "I would stay if you ask it of me."

Suddenly still and silent, Eomer could hear his heart beating in his ears. Never one to quail - he slowly lifted his head to look Haldir in the eyes. "Why?" he asked, face pinching slightly.

Haldir framed Eomer's face in his hands. "This is the love the lady spoke of. You may not feel it yet, but it will happen."

Wonder slowly transformed Eomer's face, lighting his eyes. "I...think I have felt it. But I did not know..." he whispered. "How...how is this possible?"

"Do not question matters of the heart, dear warrior," Haldir whispered, lowering his lips closer to those of the Man. "Simply feel."

*****

THE END

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