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The Gift	By : mirasaui Category: +Third Age > Slash - Male/Male Views: 9163 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings (and associated) book series, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 4
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- 6
The Gift
by Mirasaui

Part 5: Little Bird
The elf of whom Lindir and Erestor had just been speaking was sitting on a bench in Celebrían's garden reading a thick book. It was pleasant basking in the warm sunlight breathing in the heady scent of the spring blossoms. In fact, it felt so good, Haldir was thinking about stretching out and taking a nap. He picked up the piece of ribbon he was using for a bookmark and placed it behind the last page he had read. Haldir was just beginning to lie down when he sensed he was not alone. Turning, he saw Lindir standing behind him. The young guardian looked upset. Haldir frowned; hoping the Elf did not bring bad tidings. "Is something amiss, Lindir? You look troubled."
"I am a bit tired, Haldir, but otherwise fine." Lindir brushed a small insect away from his face. "I was wondering if we may talk. It is a beautiful day and we are both free of duty. I just thought you might like company. I mean, I know you do not visit Imladris that often and I thought you might be lonely. I do not mean that in a bad way. What I meant to say is that I realize that you do not have many friends here and I do not have anything to do at the moment, so I thought you might like, um, you might like to...."
"Elbereth!" Lindir thought. He could not even talk straight around the marchwarden. He had just insulted Haldir by implying that the Lórien elf did not have any friends. That was not what he meant at all. He wracked his brain trying to think of something to say that would smooth the situation over, but his mind had apparently shut down. Haldir was looking at him with that irritating smirk on his face and it just made Lindir feel more intimidated. He should have known this was a bad idea. But he could not just walk away; Haldir would believe there was something wrong with him. Lindir was saved from any more distress when Haldir spoke.
"Sit down, Lindir," Haldir said, patting at the empty spot on the bench beside him. "It is pleasant here and you are right, I would appreciate company. If I remember correctly, you have the rest of this week off. Tell me, what do you usually do in your free time?"
Haldir took a closer look at the youngster. He knew somewhat of Lindir's history from Lord Glorfindel and Lady Galadriel, but had never had much interaction with the guardian. Now that Lindir had made an effort to approach him, Haldir saw him in a new light. Lindir was young, but highly attractive and he definitely seemed as if he could use cheering up. Haldir did not have any specific plans for today and the thought of spending time with a lovely elf such as Lindir suddenly seemed very appealing. He looked up with a gleam in his eye.
"You have said this is one of your favourite places and it is quite fair. But from the sparkles in those blue eyes of yours when you speak of Imladris, it seems there are many treasures in this fair realm I have not yet tasted. You have lived here all your life, Lindir. Would you be willing to show me some of what I have been missing?"
Lindir became even more flustered. "Was Haldir hinting at something? '...Treasures that I have not yet tasted?' Was that an implication of something more than friendly companionship?" Lindir felt a lump begin to form in his throat. The minstrel knew that Haldir had somewhat of a reputation in Lórien. There was talk among the Imladris guardians that the Marchwarden's bed was rarely empty, but surely Haldir had some other meaning behind his words. He certainly would not be interested in Lindir, not in that way! Glorfindel had been in his thoughts so much lately, that he was putting too much meaning behind the words others said.
"Lindir...?" Haldir spoke softly. "Are you sure you are well?" Lindir did not appear to have heard a word that he said. The elf had a strange look on his face and his eyes were completely vacant, almost as if he were in reverie. "Lindir...?"
Lindir jumped and looked down at the Marchwarden. "Sorry, Haldir, I was thinking about what you said and I guess I started daydreaming. What do I do in my free time? Well, I ...?" Lindir could not think of a reply. What was it Haldir had asked him? He could not remember. The restless nights and lack of sleep were finally catching up with him. He was so tired he could not think.
"I am sorry, Haldir, I forgot your question," Lindir said with a sigh, wishing he were anywhere else but where he was. "I have not been sleeping well, and I think it has all just caught up with me. Perhaps it would be best if I retired to my room and took a nap." Lindir gave Haldir what he hoped was an apologetic smile.
But the marchwarden was not buying his excuse. Haldir had too much experience to be fooled by Lindir's words. "I think you have a problem, pen dithen (1), and it is something that has been bothering you for quite awhile. Perhaps it would help if you talk about it? I am a good listener for I have two brothers at home who come to me all the time for advice. Want to give me a try?
"Better yet, why do I not go to the kitchen and find us something to eat. We can sit by the falls and have lunch while we talk. It will do us both good to be outdoors in such a lovely setting on such a fine day. In fact, I will not take no for an answer. Wait here; it will not take but a moment to gather what I need.
Wondering what he had involved him self in this time; Lindir took a seat on the bench and watched as Haldir hurried off in the direction of the kitchen. Why was life so complicated? All Lindir had wanted was a simple conversation with the Lórien Elf, but as usual, he had made a total fool of himself before Haldir was ever aware of what bothered him. And from the way Haldir was reacting, one would think Lindir had the weight of the world on his shoulders. Well, if Haldir was as good as he implied, Lindir thought, maybe my worries will soon be over.
True to his word, Haldir appeared shortly with all the makings for a picnic. Apparently, he had used his charms on the kitchen staff, for Lindir could smell the delicious aroma of fresh baked bread and some type of sweet dessert. Peeking out from the corner of the basket were the necks of two bottles of wine. Two...? Could they really drink that much in one sitting? Maybe Haldir did have something else on his mind besides listening to Lindir's troubles? Lindir sincerely hoped he was mistaken. He liked the Lórien warrior but not in that way. Those feelings he reserved for another.
It did not take long to reach the falls and Lindir realized that Haldir could not have picked a more pleasing spot. The sky was a brilliant blue overhead and the fine mist from the falling water felt wonderfully cool on his sun-warmed skin. He idly watched his newfound companion as he spread the picnic blanket on the ground. Haldir was not as slim as his golden idol, but the fine play of muscles under the tightly stretched fabric of Haldir's tunic reminded him of his love. So did the long, silky tresses that brushed gently against the elf's back to fall past his waist, although Haldir's locks were silver to Glorfindel's gold. Erestor was right. The two were alike in many ways.
Lindir's eyes turned inward as he thought about the object of his desire. Glorfindel was fair as the finest porcelain. Tall, straight- shouldered, he walked like a king of old with head held high. His was a commanding presence but unlike Haldir, Glorfindel's normal expression was one of warmth, light, and strange as it may seem, innocence. For at first glance, his sky-blue eyes seemed guileless like those of a child. But hidden beneath the seeming wide-eyed innocence was a mind sharp as a whip. For Glorfindel had lived a long time in this world. Two lifetimes, in fact, and he had seen and learned much.
Lindir was so lost in thought that he missed the look that crossed Haldir's face. In fact, he had totally forgotten about the marchwarden until he felt a hand gently grasp his shoulder. Warm hazel eyes peered into his own blue as Haldir moved closer. "Where have you been, pen velui? (2) In what dream have you lost yourself?" Haldir's fingers brushed a stray lock of white hair from Lindir's cheek. "Come, my little bird, let us sit and eat. I do not want this good food to go to waste, and you need something in your stomach to hold you to the ground." Haldir laughed softly, then reached for Lindir's hand and led him to the blanket, motioning for him to sit.
With practiced efficiency Haldir invaded the basket and soon a delectable assortment of fresh sliced fruit, soft cheese, warm bread, and crusty pastry was artfully arranged on a large platter. He set the plate down and again reached into the basket to remove two glasses into which he poured a clear white wine. Handing one of the glasses to Lindir and one to himself, he took a deep breath and began to sing. The song was an old one that spoke of delightful summer days, clear sparkling water and laughing elves. Haldir had a deep pleasing voice and Lindir could not help but add his own sweet notes in accompaniment. They had finished the fourth verse when Lindir noticed that Haldir had quit singing. "Why did you stop?" Lindir asked.
"Would you pair a crow with a nightingale?" Haldir replied. "You have a beautiful voice, Lindir. It puts mine to shame. Would that I could bottle the sound to have it with me always." Lindir blushed at the compliment. "There is nothing wrong with your voice," Haldir," the minstrel said shyly. "I enjoyed singing with you."
"Well, it served my purpose anyway." Haldir said as he picked up a piece of fruit. "You are in a much better mood! You have a lovely smile as well as a pretty voice. But if you do not eat, I will think you do not enjoy my company." He lifted the fruit to Lindir's lips and watched as the white-haired elf took a dainty bite. Haldir noted the flushed cheeks and the silver glitter in Lindir's blue eyes. He loved the feel of Lindir's lips as they touched his fingers ever so lightly. Lindir had a delicate beauty. His pale hair framed flawless white skin that was tinted a slight pink on his cheeks and lips. He was tall and willowy, with the grace and lithe moves of a dancer, yet there was an aura of innocence about him that made Haldir wish to embrace and protect him. But it was a false image, for underlying this frailty were the muscle and sinew of a warrior. Lindir might only be a part-time guardian but he kept himself in shape with daily exercise. And it showed. "Such an enticing being," Haldir thought, then sighed. It was obvious that Lindir did not have the slightest interest in the marchwarden.
Haldir knew this one was not the type to play around. Lindir was waiting for someone to claim his heart. He was saving himself for the one that wanted him forever. Haldir knew that whoever it was, they would be very lucky. For Lindir was indeed special. Gentle, honest, with a large capacity for giving. He was one who would give his all to his lover and expect nothing in return. Haldir wondered who held his eye, for it was obvious that Lindir was in love, just not obvious who with.
But in addition to his heart, Haldir sensed there was something else that was truly bothering his lovely friend. Lindir reminded Haldir of a little bird who would tuck his head under his wing to hide from the world. Haldir wanted to be the one who would comfort the bird and let him soar free. But first, he had to figure out what it was that had Lindir so upset. He had to get him relaxed enough to talk. And as shy as Lindir was, it was not going to be easy.
"What troubles you, little bird?" Haldir wondered once again, as he and Lindir had finished their meal and were leaning back looking up at the sky. He had tried to draw Lindir out while they were eating, but the poor elf seemed to resist every attempt Haldir made. Lindir had stuttered and mumbled throughout the whole conversation. It was obvious Lindir was frightened of him and he idly wondered why. He had tried to be as gentle as possible with the minstrel, but it only seemed to increase his fear. Haldir finally decided that honesty was the only thing left to try.
"Lindir, can I ask you a personal question?" Haldir asked softly.
Lindir looked at him with a worried expression. "What is it that you wish to know?" he whispered.
Haldir reached out and covered Lindir's hands with his own. He could feel the trembles that Lindir was desperately trying to control. "Do I frighten you?" Haldir inquired."
"N-no, y-yes." Lindir managed to reply. "I-I mean, I am not scared of you but I am not sure what you want of me. I am afraid you want more than I am willing to give."
"I would love to have you, pen velui, for though you might not think so, you are beautiful. But I do not think that I could give you my heart, and that is what you would require. No more, no less. And if I am not mistaken, I believe someone has already laid claim to yours. Who claims your heart, Lindir? Can you tell me, for I sense that I never had a chance?"
Lindir's eyes had grown wide with surprise, and his trembling had increased to the point that he was visibly shaking. But before he had a chance to answer Haldir's heartfelt question, a shadow fell across the blanket and both elves looked up into a pair of laughing blue eyes.
"So, what am I interrupting, marchwarden, minstrel? Do we have a little love nest here in the grass? Or are you just enjoying the attributes of this fine day as I am?" Glorfindel laughed as he gazed down at the faces of the two surprised elves below him.
Haldir was the first to recover. "Nay, golden one, we were just partaking of a little friendship and food. You are welcome to join us if you like. We have eaten our fill and have a bit left over. It will not fill your belly but we do have enough wine for three to share. I am sure my companion will not mind another presence at our outdoor table."
Haldir glanced over at Lindir expecting to see him smile in acquiescence, and was shocked to see that Lindir had turned an amazing shade of red and was gazing at the blanket as if he wished it to be over his head. Glorfindel, thankfully, was completely oblivious of Lindir's state, and was looking at Haldir with an amused grin on his face, delighted at having the chance to tease his friend.
Haldir quickly put two and two together and realized that he already had the answer to the question he had asked Lindir. So, Lindir loved his golden-haired friend. It was obvious from the look on Lindir's face. And, Haldir grinned to himself, also obvious that Lindir had not been bold enough to let Glorfindel in on his feelings. Hmm, this was quite interesting. Glorfindel, to his knowledge had no current lover, in fact had not for a long time. Haldir just might have to take on the roll of matchmaker. For if he left these two to their own devices, Haldir knew, absolutely nothing would happen! For now, he would not let this golden opportunity pass and he swiftly cleared a spot on the blanket, motioning to his long-time friend to join them. "You are just what we need to spice up our party, my friend. Come, you need a few glasses of wine to catch up with us. If Lindir will pass me that wine bottle, I will let you have my glass. It will not take me but a minute to run to the kitchen to fetch another. Do not the two of you become too comfortable while I am gone." Haldir laughed, and with that, rose gracefully to his feet and took off across the grass.
Lindir watched mortified as Glorfindel sat down gracefully next to Haldir on the blanket. At least Haldir had kept his lord occupied long enough for the blush to leave Lindir's face. But now the marchwarden had left the two of them alone, and Elbereth knew what Glorfindel had seen and heard of the exchange between him and Haldir.
"My lord." Lindir nodded his head at the glowing blond sitting across from him.
Glorfindel uttered a laugh. "You can drop my title for today, Lindir. Just plain Glorfindel will do." And with that he reached over and grabbed Lindir's wrist, pulling him closer until Lindir's face was inches from his own.
"I fear my friend has found a new toy. Are you sure you are up to his charms, Lindir?" Glorfindel's blue eyes roamed over Lindir's body as if he was lying naked before him. "I can see what interests Haldir, but do you know what you are setting yourself up for, mellonen (3)? I hope so, for I would hate to see your heart broken into tiny pieces. What Haldir wants, he usually obtains. Do you think you can handle him, Lindir? I fear in your youth you may be making a mistake. Haldir lays claim to no one, and you are not the one to tame him, I fear."
Blood again suffused Lindir's face as he stared in shock at the elf before him. "You-you have it all wrong," he stammered. "I do not want Haldir. He seemed lonely and I offered my company for today. It was Haldir's idea for the picnic. What you saw was not what it seemed. We-we are just friends."
Glorfindel smiled inwardly at the youngster. No matter how much he denied it, Glorfindel had seen the loving gestures between the two. He was surprised at Haldir's choice of one so innocent; his friend's taste usually ran to those with much more experience. But he supposed there was a first time for everything. He only hoped that Lindir was not hurt in the process. It was obvious that the minstrel was hooked, for Glorfindel had seen the love shining in his eyes. Perhaps he could help the young guardian. He would have a talk with Haldir later and find out his intentions.
Glorfindel released Lindir's wrist to pour himself a glass of wine. Straightening up, he took a sip then ran his tongue over his lips. "Mmm," he said, "this is very good. Hand me your glass, Lindir and I will pour you some more." Lindir handed over his glass and watched his love as he filled it almost to the brim then passed it back to Lindir. "If you do not mind I will help myself to some of your left-overs," the Elda said. He swiped a fruit-filled pastry from the plate and popped it into his mouth.
"So, Lindir, other than seducing my long-time friend, what do you plan to do with the rest of your free time?" the golden-haired beauty asked. "Will you sneak away by yourself to a private glade and compose one of those lovely songs you are always singing? You are quite good, you know. I have always wondered why you did not join the Harper's guild. The guard is not a place for someone with talent such as yours."
Tears welled in Lindir's eyes as the words left Glorfindel's mouth. He knew the warrior had not wanted him in the guard, but he thought that his many years of service might have accounted for something. Obviously not, as his commander still thought he belonged elsewhere. That hurt. Not to mention, that now his Lord thought he was chasing after Haldir like a common whore. Love or not, Glorfindel did not have the right to talk to him this way. As unwanted tears rolled slowly down Lindir's cheeks, his heart filled with anger at the injustice of the hurtful words. Rising to his feet, his eyes flashing fire, Lindir told his secret love just what he thought of him at the moment.
"I am not a common whore who lusts after anything in tight leggings. And I have given years of dedicated service protecting Lord Elrond's realm. I may not be the best, but I did place third in the archery tournament last year. Tebring says I am quite good, and is glad to have me as his partner. I can shoot six arrows a minute and I have killed more than my share of Orcs. Why you cannot give me the same consideration as others under your command, I will never know. What is it you think I lack? My hands are not soft. I have calluses from both bow and harp. They are thick, tough. I am not a novice. Even Haldir thinks I am capable, and he is a marchwarden. What have I ever done to you that you despise me so?"
And with that Lindir turned and ran back towards the Last Homely House. How could he ever face Glorfindel again? He had not meant to lose control, but too much had happened this day. He wanted to die. He had just made a total fool of himself in front of the one person he wanted so badly to impress. Lindir had every intention of locking himself in his room and staying there forever. His eyes blurry from falling tears, he did not see the other elf until he ran right into him.
"Lindir," Haldir cried, grabbing the sobbing elf's arm in a tight grip. "What is wrong? Why are you crying?"

Notes:
1. pen dithen - little one
2. pen velui - lovely one
3. mellonen - my friend
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The Gift