Part 6

Posted: August 2003
Author: Khylaren

*****

The wizard was pondering the question of what to do with Erin as he filled his pipe, carefully tapping the last bit of pipeweed into the bowl and tamping it down, unaware that his companions were wondering the same thing. He had spoken with Theoden, and the King of the Mark was not unwilling to take their companion with him back to Meduseld, even though she was a stranger to this land, however Gandalf was not certain that it was the right choice for the woman. He was also uncertain as to whether or not the woman should accompany them to Gondor, especially given her lack of skills that would be necessary to the trip.

He sighed, inhaling the pungent smoke from his pipe, thinking carefully over the situation. Perhaps there were more than two choices available to him. Perhaps a third choice was the answer.

Blowing a large smoke ring, Gandalf's eyes fell on his staff, resting against the stone wall of the battlement he was sitting on. It had been a gift from the Lady of the Galadhrim, made to replace the one he had lost when he had fallen into shadow with the Balrog. She had given it to him, along with messages for his companions, before sending him onward with her blessing.

The wizard's eyes opened wide, and he began to smile. That was the answer he was seeking, of course. It had been there all along, waiting for him to discover it.

He would send Erin back with the Elves to Lothlórien, to see the Lady of Light. Galadriel would know what to do with their strange traveler, and would perhaps be able to discover her purpose for being here as well. He knew they would be leaving as soon as their wounded were able to travel, to return their dead to their forest home and mourn their passing properly. He did not know if they would be joining battle that was to come against Sauron's forces; so many of Elvenkind were leaving these shores for the fair lands of Valinor. But he hoped that some would remain, and would join their strength with the strength of men to defeat the evil that threatened all of Middle-Earth.

*****

Erin changed into her jeans and sweater, folding the dress that Eowyn had loaned her carefully and laying it on her bed. All her clothing had been cleaned, and she was glad to have something familiar and comfortable to wear for the journey ahead.

Gandalf had told her his decision early this morning, and she had to admit, after he explained to her his reasoning for it, that it was the best idea she'd heard so far. She hated the thought of leaving Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas, since she considered them friends, but she knew for certain she didn't want to go with them into the thick of battle. She'd seen enough bloodshed and dead bodies to last her for the rest of her life.

Eowyn had been troubled to hear she wasn't returning with them to Meduseld, but understood the reasons for it as well. The forest of the Elves was probably the safest place for someone like Erin to be. She'd given the lady of Rohan a quick hug and thanked her again, for being so kind to her. Eowyn had hugged her back, before leaving, hiding the tears in her eyes so her friend would not see them.

Erin eyed her pack, stuffing the last of her clothing in it before zipping it closed. She'd left the tent and camping gear out of it, hopefully making it lighter. She lifted it experimentally and nodded to herself, before slinging it over her shoulders and settling it into place.

Spending the next week or so in the company of Elves, a large portion of whom didn't even speak her language, was going to be a challenge, she thought as she pushed open her door and made her way down the long hall. Maybe they'd teach her some of their language to help pass the time, she thought impishly, stepping out of the hallway and into the main corridor.

She nodded to several familiar faces as she passed them, turning to smile at Donalla, who returned it with a smile of her own. She turned back and crashed into a rider who was standing directly in her path.

"I'm sorry!" she said, rubbing her nose where it had bumped into the unyielding surface of his armor. "I wasn't watching where I was going." She looked up to see who she had run into and gave a brief smile of recognition. "Oh, hello!"

Eomer looked down at the small woman and gave her a faint smile in return. "Are you all right, lady?" he asked, watching her rub her nose with a bemused look.

"I'm fine. I should have been looking where I was walking," Erin replied, embarrassed. "My mind is on other things, I guess."

The handsome rider nodded, his blue eyes taking in her strange clothing with interest. "You are leaving with the Elves today?" he asked politely.

Erin nodded, shifting her pack slightly. "Yes, that's what I was told, anyway." She grinned. "I'm probably holding up the parade."

Eomer smiled. "Then I shall escort you to them, lady, so you do not run into anyone else." He offered his arm to her and she took it, her small hands resting on the curve of his bicep, and they began to walk. He glanced down at his companion from time to time, admiring the fine color of her hair and the fairness of her skin, enjoying how small she was compared to his own great height.

Erin became gradually aware of his looks and blushed slightly as she walked beside him. She had not noticed before how handsome he was, her mind being occupied by other things each time she had met him, and it made her feel strange, to be escorted by the tall rider as if she was a fine lady. It was a pleasant feeling, she had to admit, straightening her shoulders slightly, wishing she were more graceful as she walked. Granted, she was leaving, and would probably never see Eomer again, but it was still fun to imagine that he might like her, just a little.

His hands were large, she noticed, and the arm she held was firmly muscled, flexing slightly under her hand as they walked. His hair was blonde, longer than she was used to seeing on men, reaching just past his shoulders. While it wasn't the silky length of the Elves, she could see it was fine, and wondered if the texture of it was as soft as it looked. He wore a beard along the edge of his jaw, as did most of the men of Rohan, and it was slightly darker blonde than his hair. He was considerably taller than she, and the top of her head barely reached his shoulder.

He was aware of her regard, and as Eomer glanced down at his companion once more, he saw her cheeks were pink with embarrassment, and he smiled inwardly. She was leaving, and soon, and he would probably never see her again. Perhaps, he thought with a grin, he should give her something to remember of the Riders of the Mark. He saw an empty alcove ahead of them, and decided to take advantage of the opportunity.

Erin squeaked in surprise as Eomer pulled her into the alcove, feeling his large hands envelop her small form with ease, pulling her pack from her shoulders and dropping it carelessly to the floor. Surprised at this unexpected maneuver, she looked up at him, a question forming on her lips.

Eomer saw her upturned face and kissed her, effectively silencing her unspoken question. Her lips were soft, parting slightly under his, and he took her silent invitation, brushing his tongue against hers. His hands stroked her back slowly as his mouth explored hers, and he felt her tremble against him. Reluctantly, he released her, stepping away from her to watch her reaction, wondering if he had gone too far.

Erin touched her lips with her fingers, looking at the handsome man with surprise, words failing her completely. She certainly hadn't expected this.

"Please accept my apology, lady," Eomer said finally, his voice low and his expression worried. "I should not have done that."

Erin swallowed, dropping her hand to her side. "I - no, its okay, really. I just wasn't expecting it." She tilted her head slightly and smiled up at him. "I'm not mad."

A slow smile lit Eomer's features. "I am glad, then, lady, that you are not angry with me for giving into my impulse, sudden though it was."

"Well, give me a little warning next time," she said, blushing slightly at his grin.

"May I kiss you again, lady, before I escort you to the Elves?" he asked politely, although his eyes glittered with amusement.

Erin nodded shyly, and felt him pull her into his arms again.

"You are so tiny," he said, looking down at her with a faint smile. "I feel as if I might break you."

Erin mentally snorted. She was not tiny, not in her mind, at least. But as his lips touched hers, she felt those thoughts leave her, and gave herself to the sensation of being kissed by the handsome rider.

Eomer's lips and hands were bolder, and he carefully explored what she had given him permission to explore. Her mouth opened willingly and he brushed his tongue against hers, feeling the velvety softness of it against his own as his hands swept down to firmly cup her bottom, pressing her against his body. She gave a sweet moan against his mouth, and the sound coursed through him like quicksilver. He wrapped an arm around her small waist, lifting her slightly as he kissed her, his free hand sliding up her waist to cup the swell of her breast.

Erin gasped at the sensation of his large hand covering her, feeling her nipples harden through the fabric of her clothing. She knew she should stop this, for she barely even knew the man that was making her so aroused, and he was taking liberties with his hands, but somehow, she couldn't bring herself to pull away from him. It had been so long since she had felt this way, and she gave herself over to the pleasurable havoc he was wreaking on her body.

Eomer felt himself teetering on the edge of sanity, and knew he should stop before he ended up taking her against the stone wall of the alcove, although it was difficult to think rationally as he felt her sweet form press against his length. Finally, and with great reluctance, he released his hold on her lips, folding her trembling form against his body.

Part of her cried out in protest when Eomer pulled back, but Erin was quietly thankful that things had not gone any further, despite the fact that her body obviously wished otherwise. She could feel Eomer's arousal against her belly, and smiled briefly. So, she thought, at least I'm not the only one all hot and bothered.

"Lady," Eomer began.

"Hush," Erin said, pulling back slightly so she could look up at his face. "You don't have to say anything." Her face was flushed with embarrassment, and she hoped he didn't think she was some kind of cheap floozy for letting him grope her like that, and for enjoying it so much!

The blonde rider's lips twitched briefly, and he gave her a nod. "All right," he said finally, taking deep breath, "Shall we find the Elves, lady?"

She stepped out of his embrace, and gave herself a quick look, making sure nothing was out of place. She knew her lips were probably bruised and puffy looking from his kisses, but other than that, nothing showed that gave any indication of what she had been doing in the alcove with Eomer.

Erin looked up and nodded. "They're probably wondering where I am." She hoped that her face wouldn't still be bright red by the time they reached the others.

He offered his arm once more, and she took it, grateful to have his support, as her knees felt rather wobbly. They walked out of the fortress, and down the flight of steps that led to the courtyard below, and Erin saw that her friends were waiting, along with the group of Elves that were returning to Lothlorien.

I hate goodbyes, she thought as she drew near them, feeling the sinking sensation in her stomach grow with each step. I really do.

Eomer brought her to a halt in front of her friends and released his hold on her arm, bowing slightly.

"Safe journey, lady, until we meet again." He raised her hand to his lips and kissed it.

Erin ducked her head slightly. "You too, Eomer. Take care."

The Marshall of the Third Mark gave her a quick smile and released her hand, striding swiftly away towards where the horses were stabled, his blonde hair shining in the sunlight of the courtyard.

Erin turned from watching him to look at her friends, hoping she hadn't been too obvious. Only Aragorn seemed to suspect that something was amiss, but he did not say anything, only raised his eyebrow slightly in question.

"I ran into him in the hall, and he was, er, kind enough to escort me here," Erin explained to them with half-smile, her cheeks coloring slightly.

Aragorn nodded. "It was well he found you, for had you not arrived when you had, I think you would have been left behind. The Elves are waiting for you."

"I'm sorry," Erin said ruefully. "I overslept."

The ranger grunted in response, and motioned to the two tall Elves who were waiting nearby. "This is Rúmil and his brother Orophin. They are brothers to Haldir."

She could see the resemblance in the two Elves that greeted her to the injured Elf on the battlements, and she greeted them in return.

"How is Haldir?" she asked the tallest of the two, the one called Rúmil.

"He fares well, for Elrohir has been with him constantly, and says he will recover from his wounds," Rúmil answered, his voice soft, and his words clipped. "My brother and I will be your guardians until we reach the safety of Lothlórien."

"I give you our thanks," Orophin spoke, his voice slightly lower than his brother's. "For your help in aiding our brother. We saw him fall in battle, and feared he was lost to us."

Aragorn touched her shoulder lightly. "They will take good care of you, and bring you safely to the Lady," he said, his expression serious. "You will be safe there."

Erin nodded, twisting her fingers slightly in the material of her sweater. "Will I - will I ever see you guys again?" she asked hesitantly, looking up at the ranger, then glancing over at Gimli and Legolas.

Aragorn shook his head. "I do not know if our paths will cross again, Erin."

"That whole Valar thing, right?" Erin tried to laugh, but it got stuck in her throat.

He gave her a brief hug. "Aye," he replied. "You will be all right."

She took a deep breath and gave him her bravest smile. "If you say so."

The Dwarf was next, and he muttered under his breath as she hugged him, but she could tell he was pleased. "You take care of Legolas, Gimli," she said as lightly as she could. "He needs you to keep him out of trouble."

Gimli laughed, giving his friend a mock-glower from under his bushy brows. "Aye, lass. That is for certain."

Legolas merely raised an eyebrow, regarding the Dwarf with bemused tolerance and affection. "I think you have it wrong, lady, for the Dwarf is far more likely to find himself in trouble than I."

She hesitated in front of Legolas, uncertain if she should hug him or not. He smiled, seeing her hesitation, and stepped forward to give her a quick embrace.

"Be safe, mellon," he said quietly, after he had released her. "Be careful."

Erin gave him a brief smile and nodded. "Thank you, Legolas. I will." He was still so very beautiful standing there in front of her, but Erin found that instead of the confusing rush of longing she usually felt when she looked at him, she felt merely the warmth of friendship, and was grateful for it. "You too," she added softly, giving him a warmer smile, before turning back to where Orophin and Rúmil waited.

"Where is Gandalf?" she asked, looking around for the wizard, having finally noticed his absence from the group.

"Here, Erin," the old man said, and she looked up to see him approach. "I had a few final matters to attend to before we leave." He came to a stop and smiled gently down at her. "I am glad I did not miss your parting, for I do not know if we will ever meet again."

He handed her the small bundle he was carrying and she took it from him curiously. "What is this?" she asked.

"Clothing from Eowyn, made in the style the shield-maidens favor. She said it would be more comfortable for you when the weather turns cold," Gandalf said. "Apparently she forgot to give it to you when you said your goodbyes."

Erin felt tears prick her eyes and she blinked, trying to clear them. "That was awfully kind of her. Please tell her thank you for me."

The wizard nodded, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "I wish you safe journey, Erin, strange traveler. I hope that the Lady Galadriel has the answers you need, and that you find your purpose here."

*****

Travel was slow with the wounded, Erin realized, glancing back at the long line of Elves behind her, several bearing stretchers that carried their injured companions. Further back, she knew, were the wagons that carried their dead. The air of sadness that hung above the group was nearly tangible, although the faces of the Elves grew lighter with each step that carried them closer to their home.

She heard their voices speaking softly to one another as they journeyed, some on horseback, some on foot, and she listened intently to the words, although she did not understand them. Their language was as beautiful as they were, melodic and soothing to the ear, and Erin wished she knew what they were saying.

The horses had been a gift from the king; a token of his thanks for their help in the battle of Helm's Deep, and although he did not have enough to spare for all of them, Erin didn't think they minded much - they seemed to be tireless, walking all day from sunrise to sunset without pause, carrying their burdens behind them.

Erin was grateful for the horses. She knew she would never have been able to keep up with the Elves otherwise. She most definitely did not have their seemingly endless supply of energy. Even riding all day wore her out, and she had fallen asleep the last two nights the moment her head had hit the ground.

"How much further is it?" she asked Rúmil, who rode behind her today. She had taken turns riding with the two brothers, and found that Rúmil was usually more talkative than his older brother.

"We should reach the borders by tomorrow afternoon, at this pace," he answered, his breath tickling her ear. "And spend tomorrow night resting beneath the trees."

Erin sighed wistfully. "I can hardly wait to see it. Tell me about the woods again, Rúmil?"

She heard the Elf chuckle softly. "The trees are silver and gold, and taller than any other on Arda. Their branches spread out and form a canopy above the forest floor, and are so grand that we have built our homes upon them," he said quietly, his eyes distant. "Nighttime is like twilight on the plains; it is never completely dark, and the lights of Calas Galadhon shine like the stars."

Erin sighed again, leaning comfortably against the strong Elf that rode behind her, feeling his arm holding her securely around her middle to keep her from falling from the bare back of the horse. Both brothers had been exceedingly kind to her, and traveling with them wasn't as hard as she thought it would be. She missed her friends, but found the company of the two Elves to be pleasant. They made an effort to talk to her, to make her feel welcome among their party, and she appreciated it. It would have been almost unbearably lonely otherwise.

Surrounded by the unearthly beauty of all these male elves, Erin found that her initial reactions to them had mostly faded to a tolerable level. She still had to deal with the occasional pounding heart and breathless state when one of them so much as looked at her, but it was not as frequent. It had been difficult for her to ride with Orophin on the first day, having his lean thighs pressing against her backside as they rode, his arm resting just below her ribcage to hold her securely so she wouldn't fall, the motion of the horse rocking their bodies together. She simply wasn't used to being this close to another male, especially a male that looked like Orophin and his brother, and it had left her with queer butterflies in her stomach on more than one occasion, especially whenever Orophin's arm tightened against her. The routine of it, thankfully, slightly lessened the effects of his proximity, as well as the need to just concentrate on staying on board the animal, and Erin now found herself mostly comfortable with their closeness.

She had been surprised to find out that Elves typically didn't ride with saddles, and found it difficult to balance on the bare back of the tall bay that they shared. It was a good thing she had him to steady her, or she would have fallen on her face - several times. She wished she'd had the time for Eowyn to teach her how to ride.

A runner approached them, moving easily to the side of their horse and dropping to a swift walk beside them.

"Haldir is awake," the Elf reported to Rúmil with a grin. "He is asking to see you and Orophin."

She felt Rúmil lean back slightly, bringing their horse to a halt. "We will rest here for a moment then," he replied, sliding off their mount in an easy motion. He reached up for Erin, lifting her off the back of the horse as if she weighed nothing, and set her gently on the ground.

Erin looked up at the tall Elf, and smiled at his relieved expression. "That's good news!"

Rúmil nodded, tucking one of his braids behind his ear. "Aye, it is," he replied with a brief grin that lightened his normally serious expression. "Come. I am certain he would like to speak with you as well." He pulled Erin behind him, taking her hand with his. "How long has he been awake, Galen?" he asked the messenger, who had fallen in step beside them.

"Only a few moments," Galen replied. "He is already complaining about being carried," he added with a light laugh.

Rúmil chuckled. "I am not surprised. My brother does not like being weak and helpless."

Orophin joined them, and Erin saw, like Rúmil, his expression was much lighter. The four of them reached the stretcher that carried Haldir, and Erin fell back slightly, watching the three brothers greet each other, not wishing to intrude on what should be a private moment.

Rúmil dropped gracefully beside the stretcher that held his brother, a smile tilting the corners of his mouth. "It is good to see you awake, gwador," he said lightly, laying his hand briefly on Haldir's and giving it a gentle squeeze. "I am glad to see you are well."

"Aye," Orophin added, crouching on the opposite side of the stretcher. "You had us worried there for a while." He gave a soft chuckle. "I am glad I will not have to tell the Lady how her favorite warden fell."

Haldir scowled under his brother's gentle teasing, but his eyes remained bright. "I am glad you are both alive and well. I see you both managed to keep your own skins intact."

"Aye," Rúmil retorted. "For we listened when Aragorn told us to retreat to the keep. Unlike some who felt they had to kill just one more Orc before leaving."

Orophin shook his head, unable to resist adding, "You did not need any more glory to add to your long list of accomplishments, gwador. They are impressive enough. One more Orc or less will not diminish your standing as the best warrior of the woods."

Haldir gave a short laugh. "I must, if I am to keep ahead of you two!"

Rúmil gave Orophin a sly grin. "True enough, for while you were resting, we finished the battle without you."

The marchwarden sighed, "I can see there will be no living with you two now. Perhaps I should resign my position as Captain before I loose it to one or both of you."

Orophin's eyes widened. "Never!" he declared, his brother echoing the same just as forcefully. Their vehement denials brought another chuckle from their brother's lips. His eyes noticed, for the first time, a third individual, standing back shyly from them.

"Who is this?" he asked, raising his hand and beckoning her forward, raising his eyebrow in curiosity.

"Do you not recognize your rescuer?" Rúmil teased lightly, reaching up to draw Erin forward towards his brother. "This is Erin Smith, the lady who found you when all thought you had passed from this world."

Haldir's gray eyes studied the short, human woman who stood uncertainly beside his youngest brother. She was fair, for a human, although strangely garbed, but her hesitant smile warmed him.

"I give you my thanks, Lady, for your help," he said honestly. "I do not recall very much, I am afraid, except hearing your voice. Will you tell me what happened?"

Rúmil pulled Erin down beside him so that she sat on the ground beside Haldir's stretcher. The young woman took a moment to gather her thoughts before speaking.

"I was carrying water back to the infirmary when I passed you," Erin began softly. "All I could see was your hair - the color of it caught my attention." She glanced down at her hands and swallowed. "I thought you were someone else, until I pulled your cloak back and saw your face." She left unsaid how relieved she was that it wasn't Legolas lying there. "Eomer told me who you were, and that you had brought the Elves to fight. He told me not to grieve, for you had died bravely." Erin closed her eyes, fighting against the sudden surge of sadness that threatened to overwhelm her as she recalled the aftermath of the battle. "I went to cover your face - it's a respectful thing in my land, to cover the faces of the dead - and you grabbed my hand." She opened her eyes again and managed a smile. "You scared the hell out of me."

Haldir read the pain and sorrow in her eyes easily, and wondered what a child had been doing in the midst of a battle such as the one at Helm's Deep. Obviously she was a stranger to the trials of war, if her state of grief was any indication. He nodded for her to continue.

"I yelled for help, because I didn't want to leave you. Someone ran for a healer, and he told me not to let you go. So I talked to you." Erin felt her cheeks flush in embarrassment. "I babbled, mostly. You probably don't remember any of it, which is fine, since it wasn't anything important."

"You told me you were lost," Haldir replied quietly. "I remember that."

She nodded. "You could say that. I'm about as lost as a person can get," she managed a weak smile. "Gandalf is sending me with you guys to see Lady Galadriel. He's hoping she'll know why I'm here." And maybe, Erin thought silently, she'll know how the heck to send me back.

Haldir realized she talked differently than what he was accustomed to hearing in other humans. "Where are you from?"

Rúmil and Orophin both looked at her expectantly, for Gandalf had not given them much in detail about their strange ward, other than she was a traveler, and that he felt she should go with them.

Erin shrugged, wondering how to answer his question. "I'm from a place called Washington, in a country called America, neither of which exists in your world."

Both of Haldir's eyebrows raised in surprise. "My world?"

She gestured vaguely with her hands, indicating their surroundings. "This place, where we are right now, is not my world. I'm from another place and time entirely." She didn't even think she wanted to get into the whole Tolkien books and movie thing with him.

Haldir looked at both his brothers, who gave him faint shrugs in return. Finally he looked back at the woman. "I am sorry that you are lost. I hope my Lady will be able to help you."

"You and me both," Erin replied with a short laugh. "You and me both."

*****

The stopped for the evening next to a small river, and Erin was glad to slide off the bony back of the horse, feeling as if the animal's spine had been trying to split her in half.

"Ow," she whimpered, feeling sore in places she didn't even want to think about.

"Are you well?" Rúmil asked with concern, watching her closely as she limped beside him.

Erin glanced at him, and shook her head. "I think I'm crippled," she said with a pained smile. "I wish you guys would use saddles. They're not so hard on a body."

The corner of Rúmil's mouth twitched upwards in a grin. "Ah, I understand," he said, nodding at their horse that now grazed placidly with the others. "Mírhrod does have a rather prominent spine, for such a fine beast."

Erin snorted. "You could say that."

Rúmil laughed. This woman was so different than the She-Elves he knew. She was small, but there was nothing dainty or delicate about her personality, and he found himself wondering if all women from her world were of similar temperament. Still laughing, he captured her hand and tucked it against his arm as they walked to where the others had gathered to eat.

Elves are a touchy-feely lot, Erin noted with amusement when Rúmil took her hand. Not that she minded. She could think of worse things than having a handsome Elf holding her hand and escorting her around. She actually found their casual touching refreshing, because it was something so totally different from her own world, where people did not touch each other unless they were close friends or family. People in my world are just too uptight most of the time, she thought with an inward smile. Touch someone casually and they think you're coming on to them, or worse.

She patted his arm gently, just because she could, and earned a smile from him. He was so much happier now that Haldir was on the mend, and it made her own heart glad to see him that way.

Rúmil led his charge to where Orophin sat, making his older brother scoot over on the rock to make room for her. Orophin growled in mock irritation, but moved nonetheless, giving Erin a quick smile when he thought Rúmil wouldn't see.

"Tell me we have something to eat besides Lembas?" Erin asked hopefully, taking the spot that Orophin had made for her. His lean thighs brushed against hers and she could feel the warmth of his body, and to her dismay, she felt the familiar quivering sensation in her midsection at his nearness. Good grief, girl. Get a grip, she told herself firmly. It's just been too long, and Eomer's kissing you didn't help any.

Oblivious to the inner dialog going on inside the young woman's mind, Rúmil and Orophin shared a grin.

"Well, one of the hunters brought down a deer," Orophin said.

"And another caught some hares," Rúmil added, watching her face light up with delight. "So I believe that Galen and Melaphríl have managed to cook something for us to eat besides Lembas."

Erin's mouth was practically watering at the thought. "Sounds wonderful," she said honestly. "Can I help them at all? Is there anything I can do?"

Rúmil laughed. "I do not think so, but Orophin has a surprise for us as well."

She turned to the Elf beside her, her eyebrows raised expectantly. "What is it?"

Orophin scowled, but his eyes twinkled with mischief. "How do you know I wished to share, Rúmil?"

Erin poked playfully him in the arm. "Too late now to be selfish, Orophin. What is it?"

Orophin captured the finger that was poking him and held it in a tight grip, laughing as she tried to pull it free. "You will see, eager one."

She stuck her tongue out at him and managed to pull her finger out of his grasp, ignoring the way her heart fluttered and skittered madly in her ribs. I'm going to need a cold shower if this keeps up, she thought, feeling suddenly miserable. She looked away from Orophin's cheerful face.

Orophin saw her face cloud over and wondered at her sudden change of mood. He had been enjoying the playful side he and his brother had managed to tease out of her, and now it was gone. In its place was the sober, saddened woman they had been traveling with for the past few days.

Erin felt Rúmil move to her other side, squatting easily at her knees as he tried to catch her eye. He too, had seen the sudden change that had taken place, and was confused by it.

"What is wrong, meldir?" Orophin asked quietly. "What troubles you?"

Rúmil's hands reached up and patted her knees. "Talk to us," he said. "Please."

Erin choked on the inane giggle that threatened to bubble up within her. How could she tell them that she was slowly being driven insane by lustful urges? God help me! If Eomer was here right now I'd jump his bones, ladylike or not! She took a deep breath and looked up into Rúmil's worried eyes.

"I'm sorry," she managed. "I'm just feeling a little homesick right now," she lied smoothly. "I didn't mean to make you guys worry." She gave them both a quick grin, relieved at how easy it was to fool them. "I'm okay. Really."

"We miss our home as well," Orophin said kindly, "That is something we can understand."

"Aye," Rúmil replied. "But I think you should tell her what your surprise is, gwador. She needs something to cheer her up, and make her forget about feeling homesick."

Erin's head lifted as Orophin reached behind the rock and pulled out a sack. He placed it her lap, and she heard the contents of it sloshing. "What is it?" she asked, pulling at the ties that held the sack closed. "Oh!"

The bottle was made of green glass and finely made, and she held it up to the dwindling sunlight to peer curiously at the liquid contents within.

"It is wine from Theoden's cellar," Rúmil said with a grin. "Orophin found it when he was searching for the food stores, and did not think the King would mind if he borrowed it."

Erin lifted an eyebrow. "Borrowed? Lifted it, more like," she couldn't help but snicker.

Orophin looked offended. "I feel it is just compensation for our aide to his people. He will surely not miss one bottle of wine, since he had so many."

She had to laugh. "I'm sure he won't mind, if he even notices." She put the bottle back in the cloth bag and handed it back to him. "For after dinner?" she asked, and he nodded at her.

"We will have to find some place private to drink it," Rúmil added. "Or we will have to share it with our comrades, and there is certainly not enough to go around."

"That's terrible, Rúmil." Erin said, her mood lightening considerably. "Just terrible. How thoughtless of you, Orophin, to not ‘borrow' enough bottles for the entire group," she teased.

The blonde Elf lifted an eyebrow at her. "And how was I supposed to carry that many bottles of wine unnoticed by the King's steward, among others?"

Erin couldn't resist. "Very carefully," she said with a dead-pan expression.

She was relived to see that some types of humor were not limited to her world alone, and she joined the brothers in their laughter.

*****

Haldir walked carefully towards the main gathering of Elves, his wound paining him slightly with each step, but not enough to keep him from joining his warriors. Elrohir had pronounced him fit enough to walk short distances, and that was enough for him. He knew the healer walked behind him, but did not mind the other Elf keeping a watchful eye. It was just as well that the distance between where he had been laying and the other Elves was not too far, for he could feel himself beginning to weaken as he reached the edge of the gathering.

"Haldir!" a voice cried joyfully, and he saw Rúmil approach him, beaming. "You are up!" His younger brother shifted his empty plate into his other hand and took the marchwarden's arm, supporting him as he walked him the rest of the way. "Orophin and Erin are over there, still eating. They will be glad to see you."

"Did they leave me anything to eat?" Haldir asked with a quick smile. "Elrohir said the hunters caught some game, and I am wholly tired of eating Lembas."

Rúmil laughed. "I imagine there is enough left to feed you, gwador. I will bring you a plate."

Orophin looked up from his food and saw Haldir and Rúmil approaching, and he gave them both a pleased smile. "Haldir, come join us!"

Erin glanced up at Orophin's words, and saw the marchwarden leaning on his brother's arm. Quickly she stood. "He can have my seat," she offered. "I'm done eating."

Orophin pulled her back down beside him. "You stay. Haldir can have my seat. I need to check the watches for this night, but I will be back." He rose from his seat and gave his older brother a quick embrace. "It is good to see you walking again," he said with a smile, before releasing him. "I will be back shortly."

Haldir nodded, touched at both his brothers' concern for him. He had not realized before just how much they truly cared for him. He watched Orophin's retreating back for a moment, before Rúmil pushed him gently down on the rock beside Erin.

"I will bring you some food, gwador. Stay here and keep our Erin company. She is feeling homesick," he said lightly, touching the young woman's shoulder briefly before leaving.

Erin sighed and watched him go, feeling the marchwarden shift uncomfortably next to her. She turned to look at him, seeing his lips tighten in discomfort. "Are you okay?" she asked.

Haldir nodded shortly. "I will be all right," he answered, looking up at her with a rueful grin. "I am just sore from my injuries. It is difficult to get comfortable."

"I know the feeling," Erin replied with a small smile. "After riding bareback for three days, I know the feeling very well."

A silence fell between them, and neither knew what to say next. Haldir was not familiar to her; she had not gotten to know him as she had Rúmil and Orophin, and she did not know how similar or different his personality was.

"It seems you have won my brothers' affections," Haldir commented softly, his eyebrow rising slightly. "They seem to feel quite protective of you."

Erin shrugged, her cheeks flushing slightly under his keen regard. "I don't know about that. They seem to put up with me, and I appreciate how kind they've been." She glanced down at her hands. "I've enjoyed getting to know them."

"I think they do more than ‘put up with you'," Haldir gently chided. "My brothers do not give their affection lightly."

"Do you have any sisters?" she asked, glancing up at him.

Haldir shook his head. "No, we do not."

Erin gave him a quick smile. "They probably see me as the little sister they always wanted."

Haldir's lips quirked briefly. "I do not recall either of them ever wishing for a sister," he said, shaking his head. "But perhaps you are right." He tilted his head slightly. "What about you? Do you have any siblings?"

It was Erin's turn to shake her head. "No, I'm an only child." She grinned, "Lucky me."

The marchwarden chuckled. "When I was growing up, there were times I wished I did not have brothers, but now I can appreciate them. They are the only family I have left here."

Erin's smile faded. "Your parents are dead?" she asked hesitantly, feeling bad that the topic had even been brought up.

Haldir gave her a brief but sad smile. "No. They left for the Gray Havens when I was still young. I raised my brothers with the help of the Lord and Lady."

Her eyes widened in surprise. "Your parents just left you? How could they do that?"

Haldir's eyes darkened and he shrugged, looking away momentarily. "They felt the call of the Sea, though they resisted it as long as they could. Many of our people have left these lands for fairer shores; they are not the first."

Erin felt terrible. "I'm sorry, Haldir," she said, touching his arm briefly. "I didn't mean to bring up a bad memory."

He turned back to her and gave her a wry smile. "It has been several hundred years since they left," he told her reassuringly. "I miss them, but I know I will see them again some day, when I leave these shores myself."

"Several hundred years?" she asked weakly, her eyes wide. "How long do Elves live?"

Haldir blinked at her, his eyebrows rising in surprise. "Elves are immortal, lady. Unless we are killed, we can live forever."

"I didn't know that," Erin said faintly, shaking her head.

"Did not know what?" Rúmil asked, finally returning with a plate for Haldir. He handed it to his brother, who eyed it appreciatively.

Erin glanced up at the handsome Elf standing across from them, looking for any signs of his possible age and seeing none. She would have guessed he was a little older than she, but now she knew he had to be much, much older. By several hundred years. The thought staggered her.

"Erin did not know that Elves are immortal," Haldir explained, taking a small bite of food and chewing it with obvious relish.

Rúmil's dark eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Truly? You have no Elves in your world?" He took a seat, sprawling comfortably on the ground at their feet.

Erin hid a smile at his undignified posture. "No, Rúmil. Only in fairy tales do Elves exist in my world. And it's too bad, actually." She couldn't resist adding, "Although you'd have human women and probably a few human men as well chasing after you constantly."

Rúmil gave her a sly wink. "I do not think that would be too terrible a thing."

Haldir nearly choked on his bite of carrot. "You would if one of them caught you, gwador."

Rúmil ignored him. "Tell me a fairy tale about Elves from your world," he asked, propping his chin on his hands and looking up at her with a hopeful expression.

Erin snickered behind her hand, wondering which story she should tell. The Elves and the Shoemaker? The Legend of Saint Nicholas? She swallowed her mirth, shaking her head. She could not tell these graceful beings stories about little people with curly-toed shoes who granted wishes or made toys. Instead, she thought of the stories she had read about the Fair Folk who lived under the hill, in particular the story of Thomas the Rhymer, who had so enchanted their Queen with his singing that she had taken him to live under the hill with them. It had been one of her favorites as a girl.

"True Thomas sat on Huntley Bank, a marvel he spied with his eye; and there he saw a lady bright, come riding down by the Eildon Tree," she began softly. "Her skirt was made of grass-green silk, her mantle of velvet fine. And on every strand of her horse's mane hung fifty silver bells and nine."

It was not truly a story, she realized belatedly, but more a poem. She hoped they would not mind.

"True Thomas took off his cap and bowed low down to his knee. ‘Hail to the Mary, Queen of Heaven! For they peer on earth never be.' ‘Oh no, oh no, Thomas,' said she. ‘That name does not belong to me; I am but the Queen of Fair Elfland that has come to visit thee.'"

Erin's eyes were closed, and she did not realize she had both Elves rapt attention as she recited the poem she had learned as a child.

Haldir had put his empty plate beside him and listened with interest to the woman's story from her own world. Her soft voice had taken on a chanting cadence as she spoke.

" ‘Play and sing, Thomas,' she said. ‘Play and sing along with me; and if you dare to kiss my lips, sure of your body I will be.'"

Rúmil was lost in the story that unfolded, as Thomas gave into the Queen's request, and went willingly with her, to serve penance for seven years for taking the kiss she offered.

"And do you see the bonny road that winds about the trees? That is the road to fair Elfland, where you and I this night will be."

Orophin approached them, his greeting dying on his lips as he saw both his brothers warn him to silence, before returning their attention to Erin. He sat silently beside Rúmil, looking up at the woman; she did not notice his arrival as her eyes were closed.

"But Thomas you must hold your tongue, whatever you may hear or see. For if you speak nary a word in Elfenland, you will never return to your own country. On they rode, and father on, and waded waters above the knee, and they saw neither sun nor moon, but they heard the roaring of the sea."

Orophin's attention was quickly caught, although he had missed the first part of the tale. Erin's voice had dropped low and harsh as she spoke the next verse, her eyes closed tightly.

"It was dark, dark night, there was no starlight, and they waded through red blood to the knee; for all the blood that is shed on the earth runs through the springs of that country."

Haldir shuddered slightly at the image her words provoked. This was no tale of fair Elven lands, but one of a folk who lived below the world of men.

"He was given a coat of dark blue cloth and shoes of velvet green, and ‘til seven years had gone and past, True Thomas on earth was never seen," Erin finished softly, her voice dropping away as she opened her eyes. Three pairs of gray-blue eyes blinked slowly, as if gradually awakening. Their expressions were unreadable, and she wondered if she'd offended them.

"The Elves in your tales do not sound very nice," Orophin finally ventured. "We would never hold someone captive for seven years just because they kissed one of us."

Erin's head dropped. "I'm sorry you didn't like it," she muttered, kicking herself for not choosing the Elves and the Shoemaker instead. At least those Elves were kindly.

"I did not say we did not like it," Orophin protested. "It was lovely. Just different."

"Aye," Haldir agreed, giving her a quick smile. "Quite different, but I enjoyed hearing you recite it nonetheless."

Rúmil nodded, adding his own thoughts. "Your Queen reminded me a bit of the Lady at first, until she told Thomas he had to go with her for seven years. Galadriel would not do that."

Orophin laughed. "Aye, and Lord Celeborn would not like it much if she went out seducing minstrels and dragging them home with her."

Erin crossed her arms, lifting her eyebrow. "It's supposed to be an allegory tale about the sins of temptation," she said, hiding her smile. "But I agree. She wasn't very nice."

"Do you know any others?" Rúmil asked her, pulling his knees under him.

She sighed. "I do, but I don't think I'm up to another recital tonight. Can I save it for another time?" She was still disappointed that at their reaction to the story, although she tried to hide it.

Haldir nodded. "Aye, lady, for I must return to my bed. I am weary and pained from sitting on this rock, although I have greatly enjoyed the company." He patted her hand briefly before standing up, stretching his sore muscles carefully.

"I will walk you back," Rúmil offered, laying his arm across Haldir's broad shoulders.

"Good night, Haldir. Have a pleasant rest," she called, watching them as they walked towards the marchwarden's bedroll, Rúmil supporting his brother carefully.

Orophin stood, stretching his lean frame before brushing the stray bits of grass that had clung to his legs from sitting on the ground. With a smile, he leaned over Erin and reached for the sack that held the wine.

Erin held her breath as Orophin's hair brushed against her face, wishing she could control her body's reaction to his nearness. She carefully schooled her expression when he stepped back, holding the sack up with a grin.

"Should we wait for Rúmil?" she asked, glancing in the direction the two Elves had taken before looking back at Orophin.

He shook his head. "He knows where we will be. It will not take him long to meet us." He reached for her hand and she gave it to him, letting him pull her to her feet. "Come," he said. "Let us go and enjoy the gifts of grape."

Orophin's long fingers enfolded hers as he tugged her along behind him, laughing as she tried to keep up with his longer legs. She could not see in the darkness that had fallen, and was almost running, blindly following his lead. She did not see the rock in her path until she tripped on it, stumbling clumsily.

He caught her easily before she fell, gripping her firmly around the waist and steadying her. Orophin felt her breath quicken beneath his hands and he looked down at her curiously.

"Are you all right?" he asked worriedly, wondering if she hurt herself.

Erin felt his large hands around her waist, the warmth of his body standing so close, and was unable to prevent the tremble that went through her. Damn it! she thought, feeling angry tears well up in her eyes. Why do I have to be so attracted to him?

"I stubbed my toe," she lied, blinking the tears away rapidly. "It just smarted for a moment. I'm fine."

Orophin had felt her tremble against his hands but was uncertain what to make of it. "I will go slower," he said finally, releasing her and taking her hand once more.

She was grateful he could not see her face as she struggled to curtail her emotions. It seemed to her suddenly that perhaps drinking wine with two handsome Elves would not be such a good idea, especially since she tended to get tipsy rather easily. She did not want to loose her hard won control around them.

"Orophin," she said, tugging at his hand to stop him. "Maybe I should just call it a night. I'm tired."

He turned back to her and regarded her closely. "I think you should have some wine first, meldir. It will help you sleep."

She shook her head. "I'll sleep just fine without it."

Orophin looked at her, a small frown crossing his lips. "Why are you afraid of me?" he asked softly, tugging on her hand and pulling her closer so he could see her face more clearly. "Have I done something to upset you?"

"No," Erin answered, feeling her knees begin to shake. "I'm not afraid of you." She dropped her head, unable to bear his sharp gaze.

"You are trembling," he said, drawing her even closer. "Tell me why."

Erin would not lift her head. "I'm tired," she repeated, starting when she felt his fingers lift her chin. "I'm…" The words died on her lips as she found his face inches from hers.

"Tired?" he finished softly, a smile curving his lips. "I do not think that is what ails you, Erin. I have lived over a thousand years, and I know desire when I see it."

Erin jerked her face away, trying to pull back from him. "I'm sorry," she muttered, her throat choking. "I can't seem to help it, though God knows I've tried."

Orophin pulled her back. "Why?" he asked, his voice gentle. "Why do you fight it?"

She blinked, trying to think as he looked at her, his face unreadable. "I'm…I'm afraid," she whispered finally.

He reached up and touched her face with gentle fingers, brushing her cheek softly. "You should not be afraid, Erin," he said, his lips curving into a smile. "There is nothing to be afraid of."

Erin felt like a deer caught in the headlights of an oncoming car as Orophin bent his head, brushing his lips against hers ever so lightly, once, twice, before releasing her, leaving her breathless, her mouth still tingling from his touch.

"Come," Orophin smiled warmly down at her. "Share some wine with my brother and myself. You will be happier for it, I think, and I know we would enjoy your company."

She was having difficulty forming a coherent thought. He had just kissed her, and did not seem to be troubled by it. On the contrary, he seemed to be quite pleased with himself. Slowly she nodded, and allowed him to take her hand once more. He tucked it against his arm so that she walked beside him, instead of behind him.

Orophin was pleased to have finally discovered what had been ailing his companion, and found he was not unhappy at the reason for it. It had been a long time since he had been with another, and he did not find Erin unattractive. Although she had not the beauty of his kin, she was fair for her race, he found her interesting and pleasant to be with, and her small body had intrigued him ever since he had ridden with her on that first morning. If she was willing, he would not be averse to sharing physical pleasure with her, and perhaps it would help lighten her heart.

Rúmil was waiting for them in the glade, grinning as he watched their approach. "What kept you?" he asked smugly, delighting in the fact that he had beat them here.

Orophin answered his smile. "Erin stubbed her toe," he said, giving her hand a brief squeeze. "I forgot she does not have the benefit of our eyesight in the darkness."

"Are you hurt?" Rúmil asked, reaching up to pull her down to sit on the grass beside him.

"No," Erin answered shortly, still slightly confused by Orophin's kiss. "I'm fine." She gave him a quick smile.

"You will feel better after this," Orophin handed her a cup which he had filled with the wine he had carried. She took it from him carefully, and took a cautious sip.

Bold and spicy flavor exploded over her tongue, and she found herself smiling at the taste of it. "This is good," she exclaimed, taking another sip.

"It should be," Rumil snorted, taking the cup his brother offered him. "It is from the King's cellar, after all."

Orophin filled his own cup and set the bottle aside. He raised his cup at his companions in a salute. "To the generosity of the King," he said with a smile, and took a drink from his cup.

*****

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