Part 10

Posted: September 2003
Author: Khylaren

*****

Sunlight filtered through the branches of the trees above them, casting dappled shadows across the grass and dirt of the forest floor. Birds sang lovely elaborate songs as they walked beneath the trees, and Erin found herself glancing up frequently, continuously awed by the sight of the towering trunks of the great Mellyrn. She felt small and insignificant in their grand presence, but also very lucky to have been given the opportunity to see them. She knew it was something she would never forget.

Haldir walked silently beside her as he led them down a long series of stone steps, his handsome face pensive, although he had smiled and nodded in greeting whenever they passed another elf, answering their friendly greetings in his own language. Again, Erin was struck by the sound of it, so beautiful and almost musical, lacking the harsh guttural sounds of English. She had only learned just a few words, thanks to Rúmil and Orophin's teaching, and other than ‘friend', she doubted she could use any of them in polite conversation. The thought made her smile.

The steps ended and she followed the silent elf across a small wooden bridge that arched over a narrow stream, before he came to a halt beside her.

"The Lady waits for you there," he said, pointing to a small and narrow path with more stone steps leading down. "Follow the steps and you will reach the Glade of the Mirror. I will wait for you here"

"You're not coming with me?" Erin asked in surprise.

Haldir shook his head and gave her a brief smile. "No. The Lady wishes to see you alone." He saw her troubled look and touched her shoulder gently. "Do not be afraid."

"I'm not afraid, really. Just a bit nervous," Erin admitted softly, giving him a wry look. "I'm trying not to get my hopes built up too high."

He nodded, dropping his hand to his side. "If anyone can help you, Erin, the Lady can."

Erin sighed. "I hope so." She turned towards the path and paused, looking over her shoulder at him. "How do you say ‘thank you' in your language?" she asked.

"Le hannon," he replied, leaning his lithe frame against a tree and settling himself to wait.

*****

The steps were smaller than the ones she and Haldir had descended earlier, some of them half-covered in moss, and Erin got the feeling that not very many passed this way. She knew of Galadriel's Mirror from her friends and wondered if she would have to look into it. The idea both frightened and intrigued her - she would actually see something of magic, although she was afraid of what it might show her.

She descended the last few steps and looked up, smiling hesitantly at the beautiful elf lady who stood regally beside a large stone pedestal. In the center of the stone was a shallow, silver colored dish.

"Will you look into the mirror?" Galadriel asked, her voice like velvet. Her eyes, though kind, seemed to glow with an inner light.

Erin swallowed nervously as she walked closer. "What am I going to see?" she asked, stopping in front of the pedestal.

Galadriel gave her a subtle smile. "Even the wisest cannot tell," she replied, filling a small silver pitcher with the water from the small fountain behind her. She looked at Erin and poured the water slowly into the shallow dish. "You may see things that are, things that were, and some things that have not yet come to pass."

Cryptic enough, Erin thought. "What do I have to do, exactly?" she asked, stepping closer to the mirror.

Galadriel smiled at her. "Simply look," she said softly, stepping away and placing the small pitcher next to the fountain.

"All right," Erin replied, stepping up on the small stone step at the edge of the pedestal. She took a deep breath and looked into Galadriel's Mirror.

For a moment, her reflection stared back at her, the brown eyes mirroring her curiosity and apprehension. She released the breath she hadn't realized she had been holding, and the reflection rippled, as if a drop of rain had splashed suddenly into the center of it. She watched the ripple grow larger as it reached the edges of the mirror. Instead of dissipating when it touched the sides, the ripple rebounded, creating a second ripple on the surface of the water. Erin's eyes widened in surprise as she saw her reflection change under the roll of the water.

The eyes were the same color, but they held the look of someone older and wiser, more experienced. The face was thinner as well, darkened by exposure to the sun, and small lines were apparent at the eyes and mouth. The dark brown hair had changed as well; it was much longer, falling well past her shoulders and disappearing behind her back. Before she could become too fascinated with the appearance of what she could only guess was her older self, the image shifted entirely.

The ripple reached the center of the water and expanded again, growing large once more as it stretched towards the outer edges of the mirror. A familiar face replaced hers; a grimy and bloodied hand shaded his brow as he looked at something in the distance.

Aragorn!

A hand clasped his shoulder and he turned, giving a brief smile to yet another familiar face as Legolas spoke to him, his lips moving soundlessly in the reflection.

The ripple had hit the edge of the mirror and was flowing back, and the image shifted once more.

The scene was dark, and an elf battled fiercely with an enormous monster of a creature, his handsome face twisted in pain as another creature struck him from behind. He fell, his eyes open and staring, the light within them fading, and Erin gasped, recognizing Haldir.

The ripple caused the image to change again as it made its way to the outer edges of the mirror once more.

Gandalf on Shadowfax, holding a small, childlike form in front of him as the gray stallion raced across the plains, red echoes of flame flashing in the mountains behind them. The wizard's face was lined with worry as he bent his head over Shadowfax's neck, urging the great stallion faster.

Ripple.

Éowyn weeping, watching riders depart, her blue gaze fixed on the darkly handsome man who led them; even in the absence of sound, her grief and terror for them apparent.

Shift.

Erin again, locked in an embrace with a form whose features were hidden, joy written plainly of her features.

Ripple.

A large stone door at the base of a mountain, opening slowly, its black entrance gaping like the great maw of some hungry creature, eager to devour any whom would dare to pass within.

The water turned black, the ripples churning the surface as another image appeared.

Erin frowned, not understanding what she was seeing at first. It was an image of herself, standing on a long stretch of empty road. Ahead of her was an intersection, with the road turning either right or left. Both directions stretched endlessly to the horizon.

Is that all it can show me? Erin thought with despair, for none of the images had given her any clue as to her reason, her purpose for coming here, or if she would ever see her home again. Is that all there is to see? She did not realize she was crying until the images faded, and she was left staring at her own reflection, tears of disappointment trailing down her cheeks.

"The mirror does not always give us the answers we seek," Galadriel's voice came softly, and she felt the Lady touch her gently on her shoulder. Erin looked up, wiping the tears from her cheeks with the back of her sleeve and saw compassion in the starry blue eyes that met hers.

"Yet I know a little of what you have seen, for I have sought visions of your destiny within this mirror as well," Galadriel continued, her velvety voice low and soft. "Mithrandir spoke truly when he said your presence here would cast ripples, for indeed, it has already begun."

Erin cleared her throat and struggled to speak. "What do you mean, Lady?"

"I saw Haldir's death at Helm's Deep. I knew my brave marchwarden would not return to us when I sent him to the aide of men. Yet returned he has. Because of you."

She started, nearly stumbling off the edge of the stone step, her eyes wide. "Then maybe that was all I was here for. Maybe I've already done what it is I'm supposed to do."

Galadriel shook her head slowly, "Something of great importance still lies ahead of you, for I have seen it. Your place is not here among the golden trees." Galadriel gestured for Erin to join her on the small stone bench at the edge of the glade. When her companion had settled herself, she continued. "You must return to Rohan, to the capital city of Edoras and see the Lady Éowyn."

"Éowyn? Why?" Erin asked, shaking her head slightly. "What is it I'm supposed to do in Edoras?"

Galadriel gave her another one of her small smiles. "The Lady faces a great decision that will effect the outcome of the great battle yet to come against the forces of darkness. You must help her make the right choice."

Erin blinked in surprise. "How am I supposed to know what the right choice is?"

The Lady laid a gentle hand against Erin's forehead. "You will know, when the time comes."

She closed her eyes against the soft and comforting touch of Galadriel's hand. "And then what do I do? Will I finally get to go home?" She felt the hand withdraw and she opened her eyes. "Lady? Do you know?"

Galadriel slowly shook her head. "Strange and great forces have brought you here, child, for purposes they are reluctant to reveal wholly to my mind. Yet one thing has remained clear to me, whenever I have sought your path within my mirror." The great Lady sighed softly, the light in her blue eyes dimming somewhat. "You will be given a choice, when the time comes. What you will decide, I cannot tell."

"A choice? As if I don't already know," Erin smiled briefly. "I will choose to go home."

Galadriel gave her a small and knowing smile. "Perhaps something will make you choose to stay," she said lightly. "Perhaps you will find the one thing you have been searching for, and once you find it, you will not want to leave it behind."

"I doubt that," Erin snorted. "What on earth would I find that is that important?"

The Lady raised her fair brows and gave a soft silvery laugh. "You have not guessed?" When Erin shook her head, she smiled. "You will discover it soon enough."

Erin frowned. "You won't tell me?"

Galadriel rose from the bench and straightened the wrinkles that had formed in her white gown, her eyes twinkling with good humor when she looked down at her smaller companion. "You would not believe me if I did."

She stood, feeling dwarfed by the tall and elegant elf. "Try me," she challenged with a smile.

The Lady inclined her head gracefully. "Love," she answered simply.

Erin shook her head. "Oh no," she said shortly. "I'm done with that."

Gentle fingers lifted her chin and brought her eyes to the wise and knowing gaze of the Lady.

"Do not let your heart be buried by your pain, Erin Smith. Do not judge all men by the actions of one," she said softly.

Erin swallowed, feeling small under the intensity of that blue and fathomless gaze. "I don't want to be hurt again," she whispered.

Galadriel nodded. "Yet there is no joy in life without risks." She dropped her hand away, but held Erin's gaze a bit longer. "Already there are two who have found their way past the barriers of your heart, seeking a foothold there, though you would deny it."

"I don't love them," Erin denied with a small shake of her head, her cheeks flushing under Galadriel's knowing look. "I can't." The last was said in whisper.

A golden eyebrow arched slightly. "Cannot? Or will not?"

Erin dropped her head and looked away. "Haldir said that elves and mortals aren't a good mix. So I can't fall in love with them, even if part of me wanted to." She took a deep breath. "I wouldn't want them to live the rest of their lives knowing that one day I was going to die, and they'd be alone again." She risked a glance at Galadriel and saw that the Lady was regarding her with kindly. "I don't want to grow old and wrinkly while they stay forever the age that they are."

"You have an enormous strength of will, Erin," Galadriel said finally. "I can see well now why the Valar have chosen you."

She snorted, attempting a smile. "And here I always thought I was just plain stubborn."

*****

Haldir watched the leaves of the trees around him flutter with the playful breeze as he waited for Erin to return, leaning comfortably against the silver bark of its massive trunk. His mind replayed the earlier scene, seeing the quick flash of disappointment in the dark eyes of the woman before she could hide it from his keen sight, and a soft sigh escaped him.

He had known there would be trouble the moment he had discovered the three of them asleep together, his brothers' arms and bodies curled protectively around her smaller form. It was obvious from the disheveled state what they had been doing, and while he had no argument with a casual act of pleasure, he worried that the situation might develop into something more. For Erin, at least, despite her protests to the contrary, it had already begun, if her disappointment to his explanation why elves and mortals did not bond was any indication. Part of him regretted telling her; yet he would not stand idly by and watch his brothers break her heart.

Haldir heard their soft footsteps, or rather Erin's footsteps, on the stone steps long before he saw them, and he heard their muted voices as they talked and he straightened, stepping away from the tree. As they came into view, he bowed, touching his hand over his heart and the Lady nodded in greeting, giving him a brief smile.

"Haldir, a party of elves and Dúnedain are being led by Elladan to our borders. Will you meet them? I am certain Elrohir is anxious of news of his brother."

"How far are they?" Haldir asked.

She considered his question silently for a moment. "They are riding to the north in Gladden Fields." She smiled briefly. "It seems there are a few of our woodland kin among them."

"Aye, my Lady," Haldir replied, glancing briefly at Erin. "Farewell," he said, giving her a brief nod, before turning swiftly away, his footfalls silent as he moved through the trees, his gray cloak streaming behind him.

Erin watched his graceful form disappear within the trees, before she turned to look at Galadriel. "More elves?" she asked curiously.

The Lady nodded. "Elladan comes to collect Elrohir. They will continue onward to the plains of Isen and meet Aragorn there, to join their strength with his." Galadriel's gaze rested on Erin for a moment, before she gave her a small smile. "And your path lies with them."

*****

The Grey Company, as the riders were called, arrived at the borders of Lothlórien just as the sun set. A man and an elf rode at their head, their horses moving swiftly across the grassy plains as they approached the golden wood. They had pushed hard since leaving Mirkwood, and there was obvious relief on the faces of the elves and men that followed them when the great trees were at last in sight.

Elladan's dark pewter eyes narrowed as he saw three familiar gray clad forms step out of the woods, and a smile crossed his handsome face.

"'Tis Haldir and his brothers," he told the man who rode beside him. " The Lady of the Wood knows we have come."

Halbarad nodded at the dark haired elf and gave him a grin. "We shall enjoy the hospitality of your fabled kin this evening."

Elladan nodded but did not reply. He doubted that Haldir would escort the entire Grey Company into Calas Galadhon, but they would be allowed within the borders to rest in safety.

They stopped their horses when they reached the three elves who waited for them, and Elladan gave Haldir a welcoming grin.

"Mae Govannen, Elladan ó Imladris," Haldir said, his hand touching his heart. "It is good to see you again."

"And you, Haldir," he returned the gesture, his dark gaze resting briefly on the other two elves. "Rúmil and Orophin, it has been a while since I have been graced with your company," he said with a brief smile. "How fare you three?"

Haldir straightened, glancing briefly at Halbarad before answering. "We fare well, now that we have returned to our home."

Elladan chuckled at the marchwarden's not so subtle hint. "This is Halbarad, kin to Aragorn, and leader of the Dúnedain."

"Mae Govannen, Halbarad ó i'Dúnedain," Haldir greeted the tall man politely, his keen eyes noting the subtle resemblance to his friend.

"Thank you, Haldir of Lórien," Halbarad replied politely. "It is a pleasure to meet you. Elladan and Elrohir speak well of you."

The marchwarden's eyebrow rose sharply, and he favored Elladan with a briefly teasing grin. "I doubt that highly, Halbarad." He gestured for them to follow him. "Come. We will guide your company to a place where they can rest in safety."

They followed the three elves into the wood, and Elladan enjoyed Halbarad's expression of awe as he took in the sight of the great towering trees above them.

"There are elves in the trees," Halbarad whispered, his sharp eyes catching the occasional flash of gray within the green and gold of the leaves.

"They will guard your company this evening. I have been asked to escort Elladan and you to the city," Haldir replied, glancing up at the riders. "Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel would speak with you both before you leave these borders."

Elladan nodded. He had certainly expected no less, and he looked forward to seeing his grandparents again, as well as reuniting with his brother, whom he had not seen since Elrohir left Imladris for Helm's Deep.

The path between the great trees narrowed, and the company was forced to ride single file, until it finally opened, revealing a large and peaceful looking glade. It was here that Haldir, Rúmil and Orophin came to a halt.

"Your company is welcome to rest here, until we return from the city. There is water nearby, and it is safe enough to risk a fire. My wardens will keep watch," Haldir told them.

Halbarad nodded, turning his horse to pass the message along to the lieutenants of his company, who would in turn pass it along to the others.

Elladan dismounted fluidly, rubbing his horse's neck fondly before turning it over to Emed, who led the bay stallion away. He glanced at Haldir, his normally cheerful expression absent. "How many were lost?" he asked quietly.

"Too many," Haldir replied, shaking his head. "A remembrance ceremony will be held for them this night."

The dark-haired elf's lips tightened slightly. "Then we must make haste, for I do not wish to miss it."

*****

Lanterns cast their golden glow throughout the city as Erin slowly climbed the steps that circled the tree, one hand gripping the smooth railing, the other lifting the hem of her gown to keep from tripping on it as she climbed. Galadriel had somehow managed to find a dress that would fit Erin's shorter body, and with a few adjustments, the more pronounced curves of her hips and bust. Lindel was amazing, Erin thought, glancing at the beautiful elf that walked beside her, the lanterns making her golden tresses glow like a halo around her fair head. The seamstress had looked at the dress, looked at Erin, and began pulling seams from the beautiful blue gown like there was no tomorrow. Without taking a single measurement that Erin could discern, Lindel had managed to make alterations, her needle darting into the silky fabric in swift and fluid movements. In just a matter of hours, she had handed the dress to a dubious Erin, and had smiled knowingly when the woman pulled it over her head and it fit as if it were made for her.

"Le hannon," Erin had told her, wishing she knew more words to express her amazement at the she-elf's miraculous skill. "I can't believe you did that."

Lindel had smiled at her and nodded at her thanks. Unfortunately, communication ended there between them, for Lindel had no more understanding of Erin's language, than Erin did of hers.

Luckily, some things just didn't need talking about, Erin thought. Lindel had quickly taken charge of Erin and had not only dressed her, but had made sure her hair was combed and neatly braided. The tall and lovely elf had given her a nod of approval and had said something in her musical voice, her smile of satisfaction telling Erin that she was pleased with the results of her handiwork.

Now, she allowed Lindel to guide her, though she wasn't sure where they were going, and she wished again that she could speak more Elvish.

They reached the top of the stairs and Lindel pushed her gently towards the open hall, and Erin saw with relief that Celeborn and Galadriel were there, standing side by side as they greeted a man and a dark haired elf. Lindel patted her gently on the arm and gestured for Erin to go on, and Erin gave her a grateful smile.

"Le hannon, Lindel," she said again.

The seamstress gave her a pleased smile and nodded. "Navaer," Lindel replied, before turning back to descent the steps.

Erin entered the hall, feeling her gown slide softly against her bare legs, and felt suddenly shy as the occupants of the hall turned to acknowledge her approach. She tried to ignore how self-conscious she felt and kept her eyes on Galadriel's face, though she saw Rúmil and Orophin's approving looks out of the corner of her eye. Their look made her straighten her shoulders and lift her head, and she tried to move more gracefully.

Galadriel hid her smile as she saw the way Erin lifted herself, and silently approved.

The dark haired elf turned his head to look at her and Erin blinked in surprise. It looked like Elrohir, but there was something different about him that she couldn't quite put her finger on. He gave her an assessing look that made her flush and look away, and he laughed softly, saying something in Elvish.

"Elladan, this is the lady Erin, who is a stranger to our world. Mithrandir sent her here for guidance," Galadriel's voice was gently reproving, though her eyes sparkled with warmth as she turned to Erin. "Erin, this is my grandson, and brother to Elrohir, Elladan."

Erin gathered the loose fabric of her dress and attempted a curtsy, pleased that she managed to do it without falling on her face. She raised her head and met the eerily familiar face of Elladan and realized, with a start, why she had mistaken him for his brother. They are twins! "I am pleased to meet you." She managed to straighten from her curtsy with more grace than she would have expected.

He gave her a smile that would have melted any woman to her toes. "The pleasure is mine, lady," he said, his hand touching his heart as he bowed his head briefly.

"This is Halbarad of the Dúnedain, Captain of the Grey Company, and kin to Aragorn," the lady continued, and Erin turned to greet the tall man who stood beside Elladan.

Halbarad greeted her courteously, giving her a polite half-bow. "I am pleased to meet you, lady," he said. Erin noted the similarities and the differences between Halbarad and Aragorn with interest. The man before her was as handsome as her friend, though different in build. His shoulders were broader than Aragorn's, and his eyes were a deep dark brown, similar to her own. His shoulder length hair was lighter than Aragorn's as well, but there was something about the way that he carried himself, and the overall shape of his features, that reminded her of her friend.

"I am pleased to meet you too," Erin replied. "Aragorn saved my life on the plains of Rohan, and I consider him a friend."

A soft rustling of fabric announced the arrival of two more elves, and Erin turned to watch two familiar faces enter the hall.

"Ah, Elrohir and Melaphríl. Good," Celeborn said quietly, greeting them as they crossed the hall. "Everyone needed is present." He offered his arm to his wife and tucked her hand against his as he guided her down the smoothly polished steps.

Elrohir embraced his brother and spoke softly to him, and Erin heard Elladan's chuckle and equally soft reply. Side by side, it was easier to tell them apart, Erin thought, for Elrohir was slightly leaner than his twin, and Elladan's shoulders slightly broader.

Galadriel and Celeborn passed by them, and the twins broke apart, falling in step behind the Lord and Lady, Melaphríl trailing slightly behind Elrohir.

Haldir offered her his arm and she accepted it, walking behind Halbarad, Rúmil and Orophin falling in behind them. "Where are we going?" she quietly asked. "What's going on?"

He glanced at her as they walked. "The Lord and Lady have called a council, before the remembrance ceremony," he replied softly. "We honor the fallen this night."

Erin fell silent beside him, grateful that he seemed to understand the need to shorten his normally long strides to match hers. They entered a large room set with chairs, and the Lord and Lady took their seats gracefully, Erin taking her seat in the chair that Haldir guided her to. She watched the others settle themselves comfortably in the remaining chairs, and leaned forward expectantly.

"War is already upon us," Celeborn began without preamble, his keen gaze resting briefly on each of their faces. "The armies of Saruman have been defeated, however Sauron even now draws those to him who would see Middle Earth covered in eternal darkness."

"The time of the elves is at an end and our people leave these shores in greater numbers than ever before," Galadriel said in her midnight voice. "Yet those of you here, and those that follow your leadership, will not abandon men to their fate. The Grey Company will follow the son of Arathorn to his destiny."

"Those among us who will fight will join with the men of Rohan," Celeborn said gravely. "I shall lead them in battle."

"Then the bones of our foes shall gleam brightly in the sun!" Elladan declared, his dark gray eyes gleaming fiercely.

"They will hear our laughter," Elrohir added just as strongly, grinning at his grandfather.

"You will not be with Celeborn," Galadriel told them softly, turning to look at them each in turn. "Your duty is with Aragorn, and with Erin."

Erin squirmed uncomfortably in the chair as two sets of dark pewter eyes turned to her in surprise.

"What business does a human woman have with the Grey Company?" Elladan asked softly, raising a dark brow. He quickly switched to Elvish, turning his incredulous gaze to his grandparents. "Does she have some skill in battle that is not readily apparent by her small form?"

"She has no skills for fighting," Elrohir added in Elvish. "Nor basic survival skills that I could see."

Celeborn held up his hand to silence their protests and glanced at Galadriel.

"Her destiny lies in Edoras," Galadriel said softly, her tone brooking no argument. "And you will take her there."

Elladan sat back, glancing at Erin with an unreadable expression, though she could tell he wasn't pleased at whatever Galadriel had told him.

The Lady gave Erin an apologetic look. "Forgive my grandsons, Erin. They do not have the gift of my knowledge and they are young. I have told them they are taking you to Edoras with them."

Both elves had the grace to look slightly abashed by her softly scolding tone.

"As for Erin's skills, or their lack, I believe you both are equally capable of giving her some training, are you not?" Celeborn added, fixing them both with his blue gaze.

Elladan and Elrohir nodded, and Elrohir gave her a slightly friendlier look. "If she is willing, that is?"

She stiffened slightly. "I'm willing to learn whatever anyone is willing to teach me," she said tartly. "I may be new here, but I'm not stupid."

"They were not questioning your intelligence, Erin," Celeborn chided gently, giving her a reproving look. "They understand the dangers ahead of them far better than you, and were reluctant to take a woman unprepared into them."

Erin wilted under his disapproval. "I'm sorry," she said softly, dropping her gaze. "I appreciate that they are willing to teach me anything that will make me be less of a burden to them."

He nodded and looked at his grandsons, switching to Elvish. "Teach her knives first. She is too small for one of our bows, and there is no time for her to learn the skill." He gave them a brief smile. "Think of the challenge she represents," he told them, knowing that both Peredhils loved any challenge.

They nodded in unison, and Galadriel felt a brief surge of pity for Erin at the determined look she saw in their eyes, before she turned her attention to Halbarad.

"I have a message for your kinsman," she said to him. "Will you give it to him?"

"Aye, my Lady," the man replied softly, obviously awed by her beauty.

Galadriel gave him a small smile. "Tell him this: **The days are short. If thou art in haste, remember the Paths of the Dead."**

Erin shivered unexpectedly at the Lady's words, an image of a large stone door set at the base of a mountain loomed for a moment in her mind, its opening gaping like a black and hungry mouth, and a feeling of dreadful anticipation settled over her.

*****

Elven voices lifted in song, singing a lament for their fallen comrades as the pyres began to burn, and Erin wept silently beside Haldir, hearing his surprisingly good tenor voice blend with the others. She did not know the words to the song, but its meaning was clear to her. They were saying farewell to their friends, loved ones, and companions.

She had been surprised to learn that elves did not bury their dead. So many pyres had to be built for the fallen, and that was why the ceremony had been delayed until now. As fire after fire was lit, engulfing the still beautiful bodies with angry red flame, the song swelled in volume and intensity, until Erin felt as if her heart was in her throat. She was struck again by how awful it was, how terribly unfair that these beautiful, noble and immortal beings should have died. It just didn't seem right.

Tears blurred her vision and she was forced to look away as the last pyre was lit. Her stomach knotted and churned with apprehension as she realized that many of those who were gathered here tonight would soon be leaving to face the greatest danger they had ever known. And many would not return.

Haldir saw her small form sway and reached out to steady her. The others sang on, but he pulled her away from the gathering, his expression concerned.

"Are you well, Erin?" he asked, once they were far enough from the others that they would not disturb the ceremony.

Erin raised her tear streaked face to his and wiped at her reddened eyes. "Would it be horribly rude and inconsiderate of me if I said I wanted to go to bed now?" she asked shakily. "I feel so empty-all I want to do is sleep."

"You are overwhelmed," he replied softly, nodding in understanding. "No one expects you to keep the vigil; it will last all night, until the last fire is gone."

She sniffed, wiping her face with her hands. "I didn't want to be disrespectful," she whispered, dropping her hands to her sides. "I just don't think I can take any more right now."

"I will have someone escort you back to your room," he said gently.

"I will take her, gwador," Rúmil's voice came softly from behind him. "I have said my farewells to my comrades already, and I was never one for singing." He appeared next to Haldir and smiled understandingly at Erin before he looked at his brother. "You should return."

Haldir hesitated, torn between his duty as captain of the Galadhrim and his concern over leaving the two of them alone together. He opened his mouth to send Rúmil back, when he heard his Lady's voice in his mind.

**Have Rúmil tend to her, Haldir. She is in need of his comfort, and he would find solace in her arms as well.**

**Well I know this, Lady,* Haldir replied with a frown. *I fear...**

**Your fears are groundless, my brave marchwarden**, came the gentle reply. **Worry not over the state of Erin's heart, nor that of your brothers'. It will be well.** He felt her touch withdraw from his mind and sighed, glancing at Rúmil and giving him a nod.

"Very well, Rúmil. Escort Erin back to her room, for the lady is tired." He gave Erin a brief smile and touched his hand to his heart. "Sleep well, lady. I will see you tomorrow."

She watched him turn away, and heard his voice lift once more to join the others in their lament for their fallen.

"He sings beautifully, does he not?" Rúmil asked, taking her cold hand and enfolding it with is. "As does Orophin. Alas, I am not so gifted." His comment had the desired result and he saw her lips twitch briefly in a smile.

"I'm going to miss you, Rúmil," she said quietly, her smile fading. "Both of you."

He leaned down and kissed her softly on her cheek, pressing his lips against her ear. "Then I shall endeavor to give you something to remember me fondly by."

Her soft laughter at his playful comment warmed him, and he was relieved to see some of the grief fade from her eyes. He tucked her arm against his, and led her towards the tree that held her talan.

*****

Erin's fingers struggled with the laces at her back that held her gown, muttering under her breath about the lack of zippers and buttons in the clothing of this world. At least the elves are smart enough to avoid things like corsets, she thought wryly, tugging at the end of the lace and biting back a curse when it simply pulled the knot tighter. Her arms ached from bending unnaturally behind her and she dropped them to her sides, glancing up at the mirror in the small bathroom.

"Let me help you," an amused voice came from behind her, startling her.

"Elves should wear bells," she said crossly, giving him a mock glare. "So you can't go sneaking up on people."

Rúmil laughed, reaching for the laces that had eluded her. "My apologies for startling you," he said, not sounding the least bit sorry. "But it is difficult to move with more noise."

Erin shook her head, smiling at him. "I'll forgive you for startling me if you can get me out of this damned dress."

He arched a dark golden eyebrow at her and grinned. "Such a difficult request to refuse," he said lightly, his nimble fingers already undoing the laces with ease.

She sighed when she felt the material loosen, and her breath caught as Rúmil slid the fabric from her shoulders, the blue dress pooling in a silky pile at her feet. His fingers gently stroked her bare shoulders and he looked at her questioningly.

"Are you tired, gwilwileth?" he asked softly. "Should I leave?" His fingers drew idle patterns against her skin.

Erin shook her head, accepting the small part of her heart that belonged to this handsome elf without regret. "Stay, Rúmil," she whispered, tilting her face up to look at him. "Please."

He bent his head and brushed his lips softly against hers, smiling when he felt the slight tremor that went through her small frame. "Gladly," he said against her mouth. In a quick move, he scooped her up in his arms, laughing at her startled and indignant gasp as he carried her out of the bathroom and to her bed.

Erin squeaked in surprise when he tossed her onto the bed and she glared up at him in mock outrage. She opened her mouth to scold him and he silenced her protests with a kiss so searing it left her shaking to her toes. She watched hungrily as he divested himself of his clothing, laying it carefully across the back of her chair, before turning back to the bed and sliding across the quilts. His skin was smooth and warm, rubbing against hers with delightful friction as he moved to lie next to her, propping his head on his hand and looking down at her. His gray-blue eyes were serious for a change, and he traced a path from the tip of her chin down her neck and between her breasts, seeing the skin beneath his touch shiver slightly in response. He lifted his gaze and looked at her, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

"I will miss you too, gwilwileth," he said softly, before covering her body with his own. His lips found hers and he nuzzled them gently, parting them with his tongue to taste the warmth of her mouth as his hands slowly stroked her skin in feathery touches. There was no haste to his explorations, and as his mouth moved against hers, his hands discovered her anew.

She moaned softly as his lips discovered the sensitive spot just at the curve of her neck, her arms rising to stroke the silken muscles of his back as he nipped and licked her skin. Her fingertips explored the lean hardness of his body, tracing a path down his spine, sliding her hands down the round cheeks of his bottom and the soft hollows of his hips, before retracing her path back up his spine to bury her hands in the length of his soft hair. He lifted his head, his eyes dark with passion, and kissed her again.

She was sweet and light in his arms and he enjoyed the feel of her small hands exploring him, her caresses fueling the fire that built within him until he was aching and hard with his need. He groaned softly when her hands slid over his chest and her fingers brushed against his nipples, feeling them harden at her touch. He drew back slightly and reciprocated the gesture, teasing her nipples with his fingers until he heard her groan in response. Her hands reached up and pushed against him and he allowed her to roll him onto his back, eager to see what she would do.

Erin's eyes lowered as she took in his beautiful form and her hands ached to explore every inch of him. She straddled one of his legs and leaned forward, kissing him lightly as her hands stroked the flat planes of his stomach, sliding upwards to caress his chest again. He groaned against her mouth when one hand found his hardened length, and she took it in her hand, stroking it slowly until he gasped in pleasure.

"Ai, melethron," he gasped, his body arching under hers. "You would undo me quickly that way."

She smiled against his neck, licking her way up to his ear, her hand continuing to slowly stroke his arousal. He shuddered beneath her, crying out softly as she licked the tip of his ear and she felt his length pulse in her hand.

He felt her tongue touch the sensitive tip of his ear and cried out, his arousal throbbing in response to her combined caress. Tensing his legs, he flipped them both over, pinning her beneath him once more.

"My turn," he growled softly, pulling his length away from her teasing hand, sliding his thigh between hers. He bent his head and captured her lips with his, his tongue invading her mouth hungrily as his hands slid down to cup her breasts. He teased her nipples unmercifully, hearing her whimper in response, her hips arching against the pressure of his thigh. His mouth left hers to trail slow kisses down the smooth column of her neck, his teeth nipping lightly at the tender skin of her collarbone, before licking a wet path between her breasts.

His long hair tickled her stomach as he trailed lower, the delicious pressure of his thigh leaving her as he slid further down, placing kisses on her flat belly. Her body tensed with anticipation as he settled himself between her thighs, his strong hands pulling them further apart and opening her to his gaze.

"Erin," Rúmil said huskily, looking up the trembling line of her body to her face. "Look at me," he demanded softly.

She opened her eyes and gasped when his mouth touched her sex, his eyes locked with hers. She was lost at the first lingering lick, and the heat of his eyes held her captive.

Her soft moans aroused him, as did the musky scent of her as he teased the warm folds that opened like a red flower before him, and his length ached as he pressed it against the mattress. This could very well be their last time together and he wanted it to last, wanted to give her a memory that would make her smile. His tongue flickered over the small bundle of nerves at the top of her opening, and she gave a keening cry, shuddering against him when his fingers slid into her warmth.

"Rúmil," Erin gasped his name, arching her back as she felt the first welcome waves of release crash through her, leaving her trembling in its wake. She felt his fingers leave her body as he rose, sliding his lean form over hers and pressing his lips against her mouth. She tasted her essence on his tongue as it brushed against hers, and she moaned, feeling him press the tip of his length against her opening, shuddering as he claimed her body in one swift thrust.

Rúmil groaned softly at the sensation, feeling her tight warmth envelop him completely as she lifted her hips to meet his thrust, her soft, breathless gasps of pleasure delightful to his ears. Slowly he rocked them together, his lips trailing kisses over her face as he whispered encouraging words, wanting her to quicken for him once more. He struggled to hold himself back as she tightened inexorably beneath him once more, her soft cries taking a desperate edge. He pressed his lips against her ear, increasing his pace slightly as he felt his own release near at hand.

"That is it, my lovely gwilwileth," he whispered raggedly, his breath coming in short, quick gasps. "Tell me…"

His soft words sent her over the edge. "Rúmil!" she cried out breathlessly, her body shaking with the intensity of her release.

He growled low, thrusting hard against her, his cries mingling with hers as his own release claimed him. He collapsed against her chest, hearing her heart beating wildly beneath his ear and feeling the trembling aftershocks of her release against his body.

Erin closed her eyes, trying to catch her breath, feeling the comforting weight of his body pressing her against the mattress. She opened her eyes once more and raised her hand to stroke the soft blonde hair away from his face, hearing him give a soft and contented sigh.

"Mmm," he said against the warmth of her skin, enjoying the soft caress. "That is nice." He reluctantly pulled away, sliding his softening length from her body and smiling at her whimper of protest. With a low chuckle, he pulled her against him, stretching his length out on her bed and folding her against his chest, her head tucked comfortably beneath his chin.

Erin's fingers softly explored the smooth expanse of his chest, admiring the rippling play of muscles beneath the skin. "Want to know something funny?" she asked, enjoying the strength of his arms around her.

"Hmmm?" he made a questioning noise in the back of his throat.

"As much as I love what we just did," Erin paused, swallowing the knot in the back of her throat before continuing. "I think I will miss this the most." She felt him drop a soft kiss on the top of her head.

"Go to sleep, Erin," he said softly, his arms tightening briefly before he reached down and pulled the quilts to cover their bodies.

She snuggled against him, closing her eyes. "You won't leave?"

He chuckled again. "Do you want me to stay?"

"Ummhmm," she answered sleepily, feeling blissfully content.

He pressed his lips against the soft skin of her temple. "Then I shall stay."

Oh Erin, her sleepy brain tried to protest. This isn't good. As she gave into her body's need for sleep, she found she didn't care.

*****

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