Of Mine

III

Haldir was to arrive within a day and to Thranduil's surprise, it seemed his son was much more excited about his visit than he himself was.

He watched as Legolas sat restlessly, then stood, beginning to pace. Seeing his son so anxious for his friends arrival was rather entertaining, however, he did find the pacing rather unsettling. After a few moments he stood from his throne, walking with his staff toward Legolas. He leaned his staff against a large pillar and gently took his sons shoulders in his hands and gripped them slightly.

"Legolas, I understand that you are anxious for Haldir to arrive, but I must request that you cease your pacing," Thranduil said more softly, but with a firm undertone.

Legolas took a breath and nodded, "Yes. I apologize, Ada. I forgot how much you disliked pacing."

Thranduil released his sons shoulders, "There is a hunt today. Ride out for a few hours. Haldir will not be here till suppertime. Go."

Seeing the gears working in Legolas's mind, he gave him a bit of a nudge. "Go on, Henig, I will send for you if he comes sooner than expected."

Slowly, Legolas nodded. "Very well, Ada. I will return soon."

And with that Thranduil was left to himself.

Haldir arrived just when Thranduil had said he would. It was nearly suppertime, and Thranduil greeted his friend fondly. There would be a feast this night, welcoming the Marchwarden of Lothlórien.

"Mellon nin, I have found myself saddened by your absence, and rejoice in your return," Thranduil smiled, embracing his friend firmly.

Haldir smiled back, gripping onto his friend, "I have missed you too, Thranduil."

When they pulled away, he noticed Haldir's expression. He was searching for something. He smirked. "Legolas will be here shortly, Haldir. Do not worry yourself. I have sent for him."

Haldir's gaze flitted away from Thranduil in slight embarrassment. There was even a bit of color on the Marchwarden's cheeks.

"If it eases you, my friend, he was very anxious to greet you. I sent him on a hunt, his pacing was to drive me mad."

Haldir laughed, "You? Mad? When was that ever questioned?"

Thranduil returned the laughter, shaking his head, "You do not change."

They spent their time awaiting the young prince in laughter and good company.

Soon, Legolas arrived and grinned seeing the Marchwarden. "Haldir!"

Haldir turned, pausing his laughter. He smiled to the prince happily. "Ah, Legolas."

Legolas came toward Haldir, opening his arms, and the two have a fond embrace. Thranduil smiled at the two of them.

"Come, we have a feast. We mustn't let it grow cold," Thranduil said, gesturing for the two to follow them. "I have reserved the feast in my gardens, as I know you love them so, Mellon nin."

Grinning madly, Haldir caught up to Thranduil. "You grace me with your gifts," he teased, nudging the ElvenKing's arm playfully.

That night they spent well. They feasted and drank of the finest of wines, and it became apparent to Legolas why the Marchwarden did not have more than a few goblets of Dorwinion wine.