Meet Me Where the Sky Touches the Sea

by sauronisms

Summary:

Galadriel has spent the last decade investigating a satanic cult and searching for their leader, Sauron, whom seems to have disappeared from the face of the earth.

Worried about her physical and mental health, her co-workers and friends gift her with a long-term vacation to the island of Númenor, to get some well-deserved rest. There, she meets a mysterious, handsome stranger called Halbrand, who promises to turn her world upside down.

Notes:

This is my first Modern AU Haladriel/Saurondriel fanfiction. Some of these ideas have been cooking in my mind for a while, and I decided to go for it.

Is this true crime or romantic comedy? Maybe a bit of both, because this is a sort of "Poirot" meets "Eat Pray Love" kind of story. Prepare for a buffet of clichés and plot twists.

Chapter 1: The Sea is Always Right

Notes:

The first two chapters are more about worldbuilding, but our bickering love birds meet.

WARNING: This chapter deals with grief themes, and mentions of characters being dead for a very long time, and how Galadriel is coping with that. There’s also a brief mention of suicide (connected to the cult).

You taught me what love is, India. What faith is. You made me believe in those things. I still do. I always will. [...] Believe in me now. Believe in us. The three of us. Meet me where the sky touches the sea. Wait for me where the world begins.

[ Jennifer Donnelly; The Winter Rose ] 

 

---

 

Galadriel opened the balcony windows from pair to pair, allowing the gentle, warm breeze to enter her hotel room. All but sapphire, sparkling blue as far as her eyes could see. The Sundering Seas stretching all around the island, matching the blue domes, crowning the white buildings.

 

She still couldn’t believe she was actually here, that she had accepted this madness imposed upon her.

 

 

---

 

 

“I can’t possibly go away for a year!” Galadriel said to the two men in front of her, bewildered such a thing was being said to her face, on her birthday no less. “I have a job! I have things that require my full attention!” 

 

“Galadriel, I say this as your oldest friend and because I love you, but you look a mess,” Elrond said, with concern all over his face. “You have dark circles under your eyes, your hair hasn’t been washed in over a week, and if not for your cleaning lady, your apartment would be in shambles. We are all worried about you.” 

 

“All the expenses are paid for,” Gil-galad came forward. “This is our birthday gift to you. Accept it.” 

 

“You need to get some rest,” Elrond nodded. “Take this time to care of yourself. You deserve this vacation.” 

 

“One year is not a vacation!” Galadriel recalled, almost insulted. 

 

“Yes, it is,” Elrond fought back. “You haven’t had a moment to yourself in over a decade. You need to rest. Since you won’t take vacations on your own, we took the initiative of doing it for you.” 

 

“Have I not proven my worth over and over again?” Galadriel asked, and it was true for she did little else day by day, living completely consumed by her work, and the goal she set for herself. “Why are you sending me away?” 

 

“I don’t doubt your competence. But Galadriel, your working behavior has breached countless labor laws,” Gil-galad sighed in exasperation. “You need a vacation. You aren't even one of my official employees. I can't have you suffer  from burn-out or, worse, a stress-related death.” 

 

“Oh, that’s what this is about?” Galadriel chuckled, taking her boss’s words as an insult. “You are afraid I might die and you get the blame? No one is going to sue you if that were to happen. My cousin Celebrimbor shares your opinion, so..." 

 

“You are being unfair, Galadriel,” Elrond said. “We care for you. We are concerned about you.” 

 

“This is...” Galadriel took a deep breath and eventually nodded her head in denial. “I cannot accept it.” She stretched out her hand to return the plane tickets and the resort reservation. But the men in front of her only crossed their arms, unwilling to agree to her refusal. 

 

“It’s non-refundable,” Gil-galad said, almost casually. “You will go to Númenor, and I’m sure you’ll love it. Everyone says it’s breathtaking, and the resort is the best on the island.” 

 

“What am I supposed to do in Númenor?”  

 

“Relax!” Elrond replied, and his irritation was getting hard to conceal. “Go to a spa, take a hike, visit the shops, the churches. You can even take a boat around the island, from what I’ve been told.” He inhaled deeply and then took her hands into his. “Rest.” 

 

“But Sauron can still be out there,” Galadriel recalled. The man she has been trying to hunt down for over a decade now, but she hasn’t come any closer of finding. He appeared to have vanish from the face of the earth, like smoke. They say he’s some sort of sorcerer, but no such thing exists. “I have to find him, and—” 

 

“You have done enough in these past few years,” Elrond said, with eyes kind and gentle. “Go on vacation, enjoy yourself, and the work will still be here when you return. And we won’t stop searching for him, I can promise you that.” 

 

The argument went on for the rest of the night, and until Elrond drop her off at the Grey Havens airport, and made her promise to text once she arrived at the resort. She argued against the idea even when she was already checking in to her flight and thinking that no force on earth would compel her to go on vacation when she fastened her seatbelt and turned off her phone. 

 

 

---

 

 

The island of Númenor was, indeed, breathtaking. A wonderful location for vacation, and to relax, like Elrond has described. The salty smell of the ocean filled her nostrils the moment she took the ferry to get there, after lunch. Her journey up the cliffs was done by horse, alongside other tourists, and the air was filled with the scent of food, wine, perfumes, flowers, the sea. Cars weren’t allowed up here, and the sounds were like a symphony; the flow of the people on the streets, the crash of the waves, the beat from the street performers, and the laughter of children filled the air.

 

Galadriel texted Elrond of her arrival, as she promised she would. He replied shortly after and informed her that Disa had taken the initiative of making her a spa appointment at the resort.

 

"Of course, she did.", Galadriel thought to herself.

 

Galadriel opened the file, and it showed what was described as the “rejuvenating experience”, with a sixty-minute full-body massage with a therapist, after which she could enjoy a glass of wine and some fresh fruit at the heated outdoor pool. Tempting, indeed. Conveniently, she had half an hour to get there. The time to unpack and settle in the room.

 

She didn't pack much, but again she didn't own that much clothes. Fashion has been the last thing on her mind in the last years, and she could always buy some clothes here, if she needed to. She chose light, cotton garments; they warned her the climate was warm in Númenor, even at night time. She organized her t-shirts, blouses, shorts and jeans on the racks of the closet. She had packed some swimming suits, but let them sit on her travel bag, alongside with her underwear.

 

“Oh, shoot—” Then, she recalled the spa appointment and took a white bikini and a pair of flip flops off her luggage, placing the first on top of the bed, and the others in the white marble floor.

 

Her hotel room was nothing short of astonishing; fresh, clean and, indeed, relaxing. The scent of orange blossom in the air, and ocean breeze outside her window. There was so much promise of relaxation around her it was making her more tense than ever. The bed was enormous, decorated with white linens, and turquoise and navy pillows. The furniture was made of rattan, with soft white cushions. She had access to a private terrace, and a small infinity pool. Galadriel had no doubt it was the best resort on the island like Gil-galad had said and it must have costed a fortune to book her there. It made her feel guilty about why they were willing to spend so much money. Was it truly for her to recover or was it a golden cage to keep her away? 

 

The beauty of this place could almost make her forget the last decade of her life. Almost.  

 

Galadriel still remembers the day the police came knocking at her family’s manor door like it happened yesterday. But it hasn’t. It’s been ten years since that tragic night. She vaguely remembers blue and red lights flashing on her vision, her legs losing strength and the entire world spinning around her when one police officer informed they had found Finrod’s body, in an abandoned warehouse, but they needed her to identify the body. Later, they told her Celeborn was with him, but found no trace of him. But death was the most likely scenario, and a forensic doctor had passed a death certificate. They believed the culprits to be members of a satanic cult who operated in the North of the country, but the police was never able to find their hide place. Their leader was a man called Sauron, they told her, and he was, certainly, behind the deaths of her brother and husband. And on her Finrod's skin, a sigil had been carved, of what seemed to be the Devil's fork. 

 

From that day forward, this has been her goal, and sole purpose in life. To track down Sauron and bring him to justice. Although, a part of her wanted to kill him herself if she ever got the chance. Galadriel quitted her job at her family business but retained her place at the board, and started assisting the police force, led by officer Gil-galad. She dug into her brother and husband’s files on the satanic cult, and there was no shortage of information. They were devoted to a deity called “Melkor”, who was said to grant immortality and power to his followers, promises of wealth and fame. A sort of anti-Christ figure, affiliated with the Devil itself. Some sources say this could be another one of the Devil’s names, but Galadriel found no consensus on that. The cult, like all cults, was extremely private not only about their beliefs, but their rites and hierarchy.

 

Sauron was said to be sorcerer, which meant he was one of those Aleister Crowley type charlatans who practices “magic” with candles, and pentagrams, or, more likely, made his followers believe he did. Some thought of him as a God, but for the past ten years, around the same time of Finrod and Celeborn’s deaths, he also went missing, and tracking down the cult became harder. According to sources, the cultists wore rings and were organized in nine and seven rankings. Sauron had a ranking of three ring-bearers, but they were imprisoned years ago, and killed themselves in prison, not revealing anything about the cult. As years went by, police organizations begin to lose faith they would ever be able to track down Sauron, or his cultists. Maybe they just dismattled the cult, and went their separate ways, Galadriel was told. But she knew better than that. A narcissistic megalomaniac with a Messiah complex such as Sauron would never give up his power, willingly.  

 

Her thoughts were interrupted by a phone ringing. It startled her, and she looked around for the source of the noise. It was the telephone on her nightstand. Once she picked up, she heard a male voice from the other side of the line recalling her of her spa appointment, and how the therapist would be waiting for her within five minutes.

 

“Yes, yes,” Galadriel rubbed her forehead with her fingers. “I’ll be there in a moment.”

 

She undressed, and put on her bikini, flip flops and a bathrobe she found in the bathroom. She freshened-up her face, and tied her long, wavy, golden hair in a bun, at the top her head.

 

Galadriel looked at her face in the mirror in front of the sink, truly looking at herself for the first time in months. And Elrond was right. She did look tired, and like a mess. She did need rest. She could see the dark rings under her eyes, and her hair desperately needed a cut. Her neck hurt like hell, and that’s probably the reason why she did not fight back against the idea of a spa appointment.

 

She recalled reading about how stress disrupts the brain, and might affect memory and concentration, weeks ago in a magazine, while waiting for a dental appointment in Lindon. Maybe this vacation will do her good. She needs her mind sharpened to continue with the task at hand. Sauron has the reputation for being clever than most, always a step away of everyone else. She needed to be smarter if she ever meant to track him down.  

 

Galadriel made her way into the spa building of the hotel through the reception area. Everything was white around her, while the sun was shining through the huge windows. It was so bright, and clean, her blue eyes were getting sensitive to that much light. She could use sunglasses inside, and then she remembered... she hasn’t packed any! No matter, she could always buy a pair later. They promised her there was no shortage of shops here, and she hasn’t explored anything outside of the hotel, and has just now started to learn how to navigate the staircases and hallways of this resort. Labyrinthic was the word which came to mind to describe it. Of one thing Galadriel was certain; she would leave this place with toned legs from all the stairs she would have to climb up and down everyday.  

 

“Good afternoon. I’m Bronwyn, ” Once she arrived at the spa room she was assigned, a woman was waiting for her, and invited her to lie down on the massage table, already covered with a white sheet. She had dark brown, wavy hair, and olive skin, and a sweet, inviting smile. “Are you Mrs. Galadriel Doriath?”

 

Hearing that last name felt like being stabbed with a blade through the chest. It has been over a decade since she last used such a name. 

 

“Yes.” She nodded, attempting to conceal her discomfort but the therapist caught it right away. 

 

“Is there a problem?” She asked, noticing the expression her face. 

 

“It’s— It’s nothing,” Galadriel shrugged while removing her bathrobe, and placing it in a coat rack nearby. “I just haven’t used that last name in a very long time. It's my late husband’s name.” 

 

“Oh, I’m terribly sorry,” Bronwyn apologized. “No one gave me any information on that regard, otherwise I would never—” 

 

"It’s fine,” Galadriel reassured her, as she lied down on the massage table, on her stomach. “I just go by Finarfin these days, my father’s name, that's all.” 

 

Bronwyn did not say another word, as Galadriel made herself comfortable on her massage table. The therapist poured a bit of oil on her palm, and a sweet, musky smell arrived at Galadriel’s nostrils. It was a comforting scent, but she couldn’t pinpoint what it was, exactly. Bronwyn started by rubbing the muscles around her neck, drawing circles on her skin.  

 

“You’ve been under a lot of stress, lately, haven’t you?” Bronwyn remarked. “Your muscles are very stiff in this region. You must have a lot of responsibilities. Or a desk job?”

 

“Responsibilities.” Galadriel replied, and she tried not to show how much this relaxing massage was turning out to be hurting like she was being punched in the back. 

 

“Anything you are willing to share?” The therapist carried on. “This is a safe space for private conversations.” 

 

“For the last ten years, I’ve been searching for someone... bad. Who did very bad things,” Galadriel replied. “But all my clues lead nowhere. It’s like he vanished.” 

 

“Are you a police officer?”  

 

“No, more of an amateur detective,” Galadriel replied. “I was supposed to inherit my family’s business. My grandfather had an import-export company, greatly expanded by my father and his brothers. Precious gems, mostly. My uncle Feänor got into the jewelry market and created a jewelry company. Now, it’s run by his grandson, Celebrimbor, who’s also a jewelry designer. That was my line of work until... my brother’s death. He was the one who was a detective.”

 

“You lost your brother as well?” Bronwyn voice sounded emphatic, and soft.

 

“Yes, around the same time as my husband,” Galadriel confirmed, and nearly swallowed a groaned when she felt Bronwyn’s fingers untying a knot on her neck. “They shared the same line of work. But they never found Celeborn’s body. We buried an empty casket.” 

 

“Our grief can become a burden if not address properly,” Bronwyn said, and she went to collect more oil, a sweet, musky scent filling the air around them. “I sense you carry too much anger in you, as well.” 

 

“You are not the first person to say that, ” Galadriel remarked, her eyes low and but all she could see was the marble floor underneath. “My oldest friend Elrond shares your opinion.”  

 

“Your friend is correct,” Bronwyn started to massage down her spine, her fingers carving in the flesh, along the bone, applying pressure. “If you don’t mind me asking, have you considered therapy? To help you deal with these emotions? You strike me as a person who feels too much and too strongly, but keeps it concealed.”

 

“I guess I just... threw myself into my work,” Galadriel replied “Completely consumed with the idea of finding— him.” 

 

“It seems your entire life these last years has been obsessing over finding one man,” Bronwyn observed. “He must be a proper scoundrel.” 

 

“He’s a criminal, wanted in several countries,” Galadriel informed. “But police organizations are giving up on ever finding him, because no one has seen him in over a decade, as well. He can be anywhere. Even here.”

 

“Christ! What crimes has he committed?”

 

“Murder. Well, mostly, he has instructed his followers to commit murder.” Galadriel replied. “He’s a cult leader; they are devoted to a satanic deity called Melkor.”

 

“Satanic cults? This sounds like a story from those crazy documentaries one sees on television!” Bronwyn remarked, focusing now on massaging her lower back. “But if he’s been missing for so many years, how can you be sure this cult still exists?”

 

“These cults don’t end unless they stop themselves or are stopped by others.”

 

“It seems to me your pursuit for this man is your way of coping, by not coping, with the deaths of your brother and husband.” Bronwyn said, while her hands were moving up and down the flesh of her hips. “Have you engaged in other... relationships?” 

 

“What do you mean?” Galadriel asked with confusion. 

 

“Did you had... a lover in these past few years?” She replied, almost casually, even though it was clear she was weighting her words. “Someone to keep you company, and make you happy. To give you pleasure.” 

 

“That’s a very private question!”

 

“More private than what you just shared with me?” Bronwyn recalled, and Galadriel sighed in defeat. This therapist was good.  

 

“No, I did not have the time, nor the need, for it.”

 

“Everyone needs company,” Bronwyn applied more pressure on her skin. “I too know what it’s like to be alone for a very long time. My ex-boyfriend left when he found out I was pregnant, sixteen years ago. Left me with a son to raise all by myself. Life can be unexpected, but that doesn’t mean we have to live chained to the past, and forget to look to the future.”

 

“So, that’s your therapeutic counsel?” Galadriel cocked her eyebrow, almost in disbelief. “For me to find a lover?”

 

“You mistake my meaning,” Bronwyn smiled. “ I’m not saying you should find a lover, but to be open to the possibility. Also, I believe we don’t have to seek things. They’ll come to us when the time is right.”

 

“Did Disa put you up to this?” Galadriel asked. “You sound just like her!”

 

“I’m afraid I’m not acquainted with any Disa.” Bronwyn replied, as her fingers drew circles on Galadriel’s knees. “But if she’s your friend, maybe you should listen to what she has to say. Your knees tell me you haven’t had sex in a very long time. Your cartilage is a bit dry, sex releases an hormone good for that.”

 

“Ok—” Galadriel nearly chocked on air. “I don’t need a lover! Disa has tried to set me up with some of her friends over the years, and nothing worked out.” 

 

“Perhaps because you were too obsessed with your work?” Bronwyn challenged her. “Maybe, it didn’t work because you didn’t allow it to work. You shut yourself from it ever working.” 

 

“That’s not entirely true,” Galadriel replied, in full honesty. “None of these men had... I don’t know, a spark, or... anything that interested or attracted me. I’ve been married once already. And I was quite young when I did. Celeborn was my high school sweetheart, but we’ve known each other since middle-school. Marrying him always seemed like the natural course of my life.” 

 

“But you are very young still... to remain a widow for the rest for your life, if you don’t mind my boldness in saying so.” Bronwyn said, while massaging her feet. “And you are a beautiful woman. I bet men throw themselves at your feet!” 

 

“Hardly!” Galadriel found herself laughing. “The last comment a man did on my appearance was to say I look like a mess. And he’s my friend. I can only imagine what strange men must think when they look at me.”

 

“That can be easily fixed,” Bronwyn shrugged “You are at a spa, and we also offer beauty treatments, if you are interested.”  

 

“Well, for a start... I desperately need a haircut.” Galadriel eventually said.  

 

 

* * *

 

 

It turns out, her resort didn’t provide for hairdressing services, but Bronwyn was kind enough to book her an appointment in a nearby salon. The therapist applied a face mask, and took care of her nails. She asked Galadriel if she wanted color, and after a minute of consideration, she decided to go with simple translucent white, with a dash of silver sparkle.

 

Galadriel wanted to say she hasn’t felt this light in ages, but, on the contrary, her entire body hurt from all the muscle knots Bronwyn untangled in her body. She was hoping she would feel way better come morning, but the sun was still up. She went to the salon and got herself a haircut. She kept it long. “ Just the ends! ”, she asked. It’s been ages since Galadriel has pampered herself this way, and for a moment she nearly forgot about her life mission.

 

She could forget all about that while staying here. It was, indeed, heavenly, and full of life. There were tourists everywhere, going up and down the stairs of the cliffs. She was starting to feel a bit self-conscious about her fashion choices. Some of these women dressed like they were going to a fashion show, with beautiful, long, floating dresses, and here she was, wearing a plain cotton white dress, and sneakers. But she couldn’t allow herself to forget, this was merely temporary, and hunting for Sauron was her priority.

 

As her mind wandered off, so did her feet. She tried to get away from the crowds and ended up wandering near the cliffs. The sun was moving towards the sea, and right in her eyes. She should have gotten those sunglasses! With her eyes half-closed, it was difficult to walk, and she tried to stay focused on the ground below, not to lose her balance or step where she shouldn’t.

 

Too late.

 

As she took a step forward, her feet had nowhere to land, and before Galadriel could rationalize what was happening, she was falling down the cliff and into the ocean below.

 

She went feet first, and only had time to held her breath as she went fully underwater. The impact of the fall made the water resonate in her ears, and it was a miracle she missed the rocks, and her feet landed on sand, at the bottom. Once she opened her eyes, the sand was dancing on the water, all around her, and she used her feet to gain impulse to reach the surface.

 

“Are you alright?”  

 

Galadriel heard a male voice behind her once her head emerged. She was startled, and when she turned around, it came from a man in a small boat. “Where did you come from?” Galadriel asked herself. He had a suspicious expression on his face, as he observed her own. He had dark auburn hair, and... brown or green eyes, she could not tell, and a well-trimmed beard. She shouldn’t be noticing such things, but he was handsome. Very handsome. 

 

"Yes!" Galadriel found herself yelling.

 

"What were you doing? Cliff jumping?" The man asked, with a hint of a grin on his face, and he looked amused. "It's not safe."

 

"No," Galadriel replied, nodding her head. "I fell!"

 

"Come." He stretched out his hand for her to take, and come aboard the vessel.

 

Her eyes travelled between his hand and his face, weighting her options. But she had little choice but to accept this stranger’s help, she was miles away from the beach, and she wasn’t even sure if she could swim all the way there. She didn’t know these waters. She accepted to take his hand, and climb into the boat.

 

“I’m Halbrand,” The stranger introduced himself, taking the rows into his hands. Galadriel struggled to calm her breath, and took a seat in front of him. “What’s your name?” 

 

“Galadriel.” She replied while her hands were removing the excess seawater from her hair. Great. Her new haircut ruined. At the very least, it was still hot and sunny, and she would dry out quickly. 

 

“Where are we headed, Galadriel?” He asked, with a hint of a grin on his face, and she wasn’t sure how to feel about him. 

 

“We?” 

 

“Well, yes,” Halbrand chuckled, almost playfully. “I take you need me to drop you off somewhere around the island.” 

 

“I’m staying at Armenelos.” Galadriel replied, trying not to reveal too much of her own affairs. 

 

“Fancy... expensive, too,” He smiled and then looked over his shoulder, and turned the boat to follow a new route. “You are here on vacation?” 

 

“Yes,” Galadriel nodded, for there was no point in hiding that from this stranger, after all, Númenor was a very popular tourist destination. “And you?” 

 

“No, no,” Halbrand turned to face her again, and he was too nice for his own sake, and Galadriel could almost sense he was hiding something. “I live here. Not in the fanciest part of town, though.” 

 

“But you are not from here, are you?” Galadriel observed him, although she could hardly tell because he has an impressive tan. “Why Númenor? And don’t tell me you are one of those hipsters or hippies or whatever who leave everything behind to live near nature. You don’t look like the type.” 

 

“No, I...” Halbrand chuckled at that. “No, I just needed some rest.” He sounded honest. “To get away from things. Númenor seemed like the perfect place to start anew.” 

 

“Gods, you sound almost like an international criminal.”  

 

“Perhaps I am.” Halbrand cocked his brow and Galadriel looked at the grin on his face, and then laughed, brushing off his words. “And you are here on vacation all by yourself?” 

 

“Why? Are you assessing me as your next victim?” Galadriel asked, almost sarcastically. “I’m afraid to disappoint you, but I have combat training, in case you get any ideas of kidnapping me.” 

 

“That’s a shame...” He clicked his tongue. “I was already thinking about all the ways I could tie you up in my dungeon.” Halbrand replied with a mischievous grin, and Galadriel looked at him unsure if he was jesting or being serious. Then, he laughed when he saw the expression her face. “I’m joking, Galadriel. You don’t need to be scared of me, it’s not my wish to harm you.” 

 

“You want to help me?” 

 

“I already helped you,” Halbrand recalled. “And now I’m taking you back to the beach of Armenelos, as promised. I’m sure you can manage to find your hotel from there, a resourceful woman such as yourself.” 

 

“You don't need to flatter me.” Galadriel rolled her eyes. 

 

“It’s not flatter, if it’s true,” Halbrand shrugged. "You don't have the look of someone to whom things happen by accident."

 

“Interesting thing to say to someone who just had an accident.” Galadriel sighed. 

 

“You’re not hurt, at the very least,” Halbrand recalled. “Those cliffs are a safety hazard.” 

 

“Lesson learned. I’ll stay clear from the cliffs from now on.”

 

“You’re planning on staying here for a long time?” Halbrand cocked his brow. 

 

"One year." 

 

"One year vacation?" Halbrand laughed in incredulity. "What do you do for a living?"

 

"It was my boss' idea," Galadriel decided not to reveal the whole truth to someone she just met, not matter how charming he was. "I own a jewelry brand." Celebrimbor owned most of it, but it wasn't entirely a lie. Still, she decided it was best to change the subject. “And you?”

 

“I own an arts and crafts shop downtown,” He replied. “Fire work, mostly. Wood carving, blacksmithing—”

 

“Blacksmithing?” Galadriel repeated as if she didn’t believe a word he was saying. “You mean... with a real forge? With fire?” 

 

“Yes.” Halbrand just shrugged. “Tourists like to buy handicraft. It seemed like a smart line of business.”

 

Galadriel observed the man in front of her; Halbrand appeared casual, and laid back, with his trousers, and dark green linen shirt, unbuttoned just enough for a bit of his chest hair to peep through. On the surface, he seemed not to have a worry in the world, living in this paradise island, but underneath she could tell there was more to him than meet the eye.  

 

“Well, Galadriel,” Halbrand said when they were near the beach, and it was crowded still. “This is as far as I can go without this boat getting stuck in the sand. Can you swim?”  

 

Galadriel looked at the beach, and it was merely a short distance away. She could do this, and everyone in there would probably stare at her coming out of ocean fully dressed with her sneakers in hand, but she had no choice. 

 

“Yes,” She eventually nodded. “It’s not far.” 

 

“Good,” Halbrand stretched out his hand, and Galadriel look down at it for a while, uncertain, but eventually took it to say goodbye. “Well, it was nice to meet you."

 

"Nice to meet you, too."

 

"See you around... Galadriel.” He smiled, and his eyes were hazel, she decided. 

 

Then, she jumped off the boat and swam towards the beach. 

Notes:

Númenor is based on Santorini (Greece) in this story.

Galadriel is a widow: Celeborn is truly dead, and he won't return in this fanfiction.

 

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed it!

Chapter 2: There's a Tempest In Me

Notes:

Thank you so much for all the nice comments and the kudos! It means a lot to me to know fellow fans are enjoying what I'm cooking here, and I hope not to disappoint! This is very different from what I usually write.

This is where the fun begins: Galadriel goes shopping, makes new friends and gets invited to a party.

Galadriel decided to call it a day, and not leave the hotel. Fortunately, she had left her phone in her room, otherwise she would have to buy herself a new one. She checked it. No new messages. She considered texting Elrond, but decided not to. If she was to tell him about her cliff activities, he would be worried sick about her surviving these vacations in one piece. 

 

She went straight to the shower, placing her sea scented clothes for laundry service. She was exhausted. And while the warm water washed away the sand and the salt, she actually considered ordering room service instead of marching herself up to the hotel restaurant. The flight, the ferry, the horse, the massage that left her muscles aching and falling down a cliff was enough for her not want to leave her private space.

 

Not to mention that irritating but very charming man... Halbrand. Why was she thinking about a stranger while showering? Maybe it’s the jet lag kicking in, maybe it’s the fact he’s the second person she met in this island, and he helped her. There was something extremely attractive about him, some mystery awaiting to be solved, Galadriel consider. No! She shouldn’t entretain such thoughts, and besides, he claimed not to live around these parts, so it was unlikely she would see him again.  

 

Galadriel had to pay extra for room service, but she didn’t mind. Soup and a toast was enough, she was so tired, food was the last thing on her mind. The complimentary wine bottle still laying unopened on the dresser.  

 

She dined on her private terrace, with view towards the sea. Even a simple toast seemed out of a chef competition in this place, and the chicken and lemon soup was oddly refreshing. The sun already set, and the turquoise was now deep blue, painted with stars. Looking up at the night sky and lose herself in the sparkling constellations has always brought her peace. She liked to imagine those she lost were looking down on her, watching over her.

 

And just as Galadriel was getting a real moment of quiet since her arrival, she overheard a Deep House beat coming from below, and people cheering. Of course, Númenor was a tourist hotspot by day, and by night. She grabbed her glass of sparkling water and went inside. Luckily, the windows kept the noise out. 

 

She laid down on the bed, took one of her sleeping pills, and drift into sleep shortly after. She hasn’t slept without chemical aid in a very long time, hoping it would keep the nightmares out, and allow her to fall asleep.  

 

 

* * *

 

 

Galadriel set on buying herself a pair of sunglasses first thing in the morning, after breakfast.  

 

She was the first at the breakfast room of the resort, and when she went outside, there was still a chill in the air, but the sun was starting to bring warmth to the new day. Galadriel took a map from the reception, and was ready to explore. She has always been a bit old-fashioned when it came to technology, and Celebrimbor kept saying she needed to update herself, but Galadriel disagreed. Machinery was his thing, not hers. She still did handwriting and owned a physical planner, after all.

 

It was only a few minutes past eight, and the streets were still nearly empty and the shops closed. She went for a walk, but decided it was best to stay clear from the cliffs after what happened yesterday. At least, her muscles didn’t ache anymore from the massage, and she did feel lighter, and a bit more relaxed. At least, physically. 

 

Galadriel was eating natural yogurt with a dash of honey and walnuts, when the shops were opening for the day, around ten o'clock. Once she was finished, she went to walk down the long street, with shops on both sides. There was no shortage of stuff to buy, and a bit on the overpriced side, as well, not that was an issue for her. She did a bit of window shopping before setting in a brown pair of sunglasses, she immediately put on when leaving the shop.

 

It was still early for lunch, so Galadriel decided to continue exploring the shops in the area. She arrived at the most expensive section, with stores from big fashion names, and local designers. Tourists were starting to flood the streets, as well. The day was getting warmer by the minute, and the gentle breeze from the ocean danced on the flowers, causing them to perfume the air.

 

One shop caught her attention, with its Roman-Greek inspired facade. Above the door stood “Tar-Míriel” in a minimal but elegant logo. It seemed to be a local designer store. Galadriel noticed a warning at the door informing the shop would be closed after lunch, and would only open the day after tomorrow, but thought nothing of it, and, taken by curiosity, entered.  

 

The space was bright, and only had a few racks with clothes in all shades of blue, white and cream. At the counter, there was a beautiful woman, with dark skin, and black curly hair, wearing a white linen suit, and working at a laptop. She greeted Galadriel with a smile, inviting her to explore the shop, but didn’t get up.

 

“Are these your designs?” Galadriel asked, pointing towards the racks.

 

“Yes,” The woman replied, with a kind smile. “I’m Míriel, the owner and the designer. It’s my new collection for the Summer.”

 

“They are gorgeous,” Galadriel complimented her, while observing the pieces. “I’m Galadriel.” 

 

“You are here on vacation?” Míriel asked. “Or just moved in?” 

 

“Vacations, but I’m staying for a year,” Galadriel replied, and was already expected the surprise look on the other woman’s face. “I’m staying at the resort, a few blocks... above.” 

 

But before Míriel could reply, a man carrying a package arrived at the store. It was the mailman, and he seemed to be acquainted with her. This was an island, after all. Everyone probably knew everyone. Galadriel wondered if Míriel knew Halbrand, but brushed that thought off, focusing on a rack of coats. They were even pricier than what she has seen so far, and wondered if Míriel was successful or not, but judging by the appearance of her shop, probably.  

 

"See you later, Queen regent!” The man waved goodbye, and Míriel chuckled at that.

 

“Queen regent?” Galadriel wasn’t able to conceal her curiosity, while checking the price tags on the clothes. 

 

“It’s just a joke.” She explained, with a smile on her face. “My father is the former mayor, and I got the nickname because of that. It just stuck over the years.” 

 

“And you preferred fashion over politics?” Galadriel remarked, her eyes landing on a long turquoise dress.

 

“I ran for office once, but... It wasn’t meant to be,” Míriel shrugged. “My cousin Pharazôn is mayor now. He’s the one with the ambition. I’m content in staying away from all of that. It’s too much drama." Then, she noticed how Galadriel couldn’t look away from that one dress. “You should try it on. I bet it looks lovely with your eyes.”

 

“Oh, it’s really beautiful, but I don’t usually wear dresses like this.”

 

“Try it on,” Míriel insisted with a smile. “You might be surprised.” 

 

Galadriel inhaled deeply and took a leap of faith. Why not? She could try it on, she had nothing to lose. Even if the dress ended up looking horrible on her figure, she would have something to laugh about, and she needed a bit of fun in her life. 

 

The dress was a bit daunting to put on. It was a perfect fit, but she had to rationalize each straps would go where. But when it was finally on, it was worth the trouble. It was absolutely beautiful. It had an open back, with crossed straps, and it wrapped around her chest, with cut-outs at the sides, floating to the floor, but not enough for it to be a tripping hazard.

 

“See?” Míriel gasped, nodding her head in approval. “You look breathtaking!”

 

“You are just saying it to be polite.” Galadriel said. And because she wanted to sell the dress, but didn’t say that part out loud.

 

“No, you look great! Truly.” Míriel said with decisiveness. “I know you must think I’m only saying this because I want you to buy it, and you don't know me, but I’m a very honest person. I would recommend you try on a different dress if it didn’t look good on you.” 

 

Galadriel looked herself in the mirror again. Well, she did look great in this dress, there’s no denying it to herself, but this was so different from her usual clothes, a bit too sexy, as well. 

 

“Are you really being honest?” Galadriel asked, while looking over her shoulder, to try to see how the dress fit on the back. “Do you think it looks good?” 

 

“You look beautiful,” Míriel nodded. “You should definitely buy that dress, and wear it tonight.”

 

“Tonight?” Galadriel asked with confusion. “What’s happening tonight?”

 

“No one told you at the hotel? Today, it’s the second of our most beloved religious ceremonies! The Erulaitalë, or Praise of Eru. The first one was a few months ago, and the next will be in two months' time. These are in preparation of our great festival in the Fall, the Great Bear-dance of Tompollë.” Míriel informed. “Tonight, there is going to be a huge party, in the entire island.”

 

“That sounds... really exciting.” Galadriel remarked, but she didn’t sound very enthusiastic about it. The only thing that came to her mind was more noise during the night.  

 

“Don’t tell me you plan on staying locked up in your hotel room tonight.” Míriel sighed, almost disappointed with her tone. “Come. You’ll love it, and you’ll have a great time.”

 

“Well, I don’t have company,” Galadriel shrugged, and cringed at the idea of attending a party in a strange place all by herself. “I don’t know anyone here, aside from a therapist at the resort and... some random guy I met by chance.” 

 

“That can be easily fixed,” Míriel smiled. “You can join us for dinner. Me and my friends.”

 

“Oh, that’s—” Galadriel muttered, and felt slightly embarrassed. “I don’t want to be an imposition.” 

 

“You’re not imposing, I’m inviting you to join us,” Míriel corrected her. “Unless, of course, your plan is to be inside close doors and not talk to anyone.”

 

Galadriel weighted on her options. This was now or never. She had to stay one year on this island, and if she didn’t start to make friendship with the locals now, she would probably not have the opportunity again anytime soon. And if she declined Míriel’s invitation, she would most likely never ask her again, and she would end up locked away in a hotel room for months on end.

 

“Alright,” Galadriel eventually said. “I accept your invitation. Let’s have dinner and go to the party, tonight.” 

 

“That’s a yes?” Míriel smiled. 

 

“Yes!” Galadriel nodded. 

 

“Excellent!” Míriel cheered. “You’ll love it! And don’t you worry, we Númenóreans are known for our hospitality. You will feel right at home with us.” 

 

 

* * *

 

 

Galadriel bought the dress.

 

And a white linen shawl, and a pair of silver flat sandals. She was almost tempted in getting high heels but the endless stairs of Númenor, and the prospect of having to walk miles, up and down the cliffs, persuaded her otherwise.

 

She spent the rest of the day at the resort pool, just resting, and mentally preparing herself for dinner, and the party. She couldn’t even recall when it was the last time she attended an actual party. One with more than ten people who happen to be her closest friends, that is. Disa and her husband Durin threw a lot of dinner parties, but it wasn’t exactly what most would describe as a proper party, with booze, loud music and people dancing and sweating. Galadriel hasn’t been to one of those since she was a teenager, and that seemed like a lifetime ago. 

 

Galadriel wasn’t particurlay nervous about going out to dinner, but she was out of her environment and circle of friends, preparing herself to get into a new one. She didn’t know whom she was about to encounter. A part of her wondered if Halbrand could be among Míriel’s friends, but she knew it was unlikely. Míriel strike her as a very sophisticated woman from a powerful Númenórean family, the former mayor's daughter and cousin to the new one, while Halbrand, well, he looked a bit rugged in his small boat, the owner of an apparent small business downtown.

   

She put on her new dress and sandals and decided to keep her hair loose, cascating down her back. A pair of solitary diamond earrings, designed by Celebrimbor. She took the shawl in case the night got colder. She rarely wore make-up, but decided to wear a rosy lipstick. Taking one last look in the mirror, Galadriel felt beautiful and confident for the first time in years.

 

With phone in hand, she searched for the restaurant Míriel chose and allowed technology to guide her path this once. It was a fifteen-minute walk, down the cliffs, and closer to the beach than the resort.

 

Eight pm.

 

Time to go.

 

The dinner was in half an hour and she didn’t want to be late. Nor arrive too early, either. Míriel was her beacon, and the only familiar face. It was a warm night, and not windy, which surprised her.

 

Fortunately, Míriel and her friends were already there once Galadriel arrived. They were seated at a table in the terrace of the restaurant, and Galadriel noticed six people she has never seen before. As expected, Halbrand wasn’t among them. Behind their backs, there was another breaktaking view of the ocean. Míriel quickly noticed her arrival and waved for her to join them.

 

“This is my friend Elendil,” Míriel introduced Galadriel to a middle-aged man, with blue eyes and brown hair, and she noticed a spark in the woman’s eyes when she called him a friend. “And his children, Eärien and Isildur.” Míriel called them children but they were, clearly, on their early twenties. And then, she pointed to a young man, with dark skin and curly hair, sitting next to Eärien. “And this is Valandil.” Then, to a man around the same age as he, with a brunette by his side. “And Ontamo, and his fiancée, Mairen.”

 

“Nice to meet you all.” Galadriel greeted them, as she took the empty seat by Míriel’s side, placing her shawl in one of the chair’ arms. “I’m Galadriel.” 

 

“Where are you from, Galadriel?” Elendil took the initiative.

 

“Lindon.” 

 

“Míriel told us you are staying in Númenor for a year,” Isildur said, with a smile, while the waiter was bringing bread, olives and cheese. “That’s great! I keep telling them I want to do that, but I’m the black sheep of the family!”

 

“You must forgive my son,” Elendil jumped in. “He has this illusion I’ll allow him to waste his life away.” 

 

“She’s taking a gap year.” Isildur insisted, looking at his father. “Why can’t I take one?” 

 

“Because you keep changing your mind, and quitting jobs,” Elendil pointed out. “Your sister is taking her Architecture master in the mainland, and your brother is doing well in the Navy. You need to find your place.” 

 

“I’m sure Galadriel isn’t interested in our family drama.” Eärien recalled, picking up a piece of bread from the small basket in front of her, and then turned to face Galadriel. “My father and brother are always fighting, but they love each other.”

 

“What about changing the subject?” Míriel gave Elendil a knowledgeable look, and then looked at Ontamo and Mairen across the table. “Have you chosen your venue for the wedding?”

 

“No, not yet,” Mairen answered. “We can’t decide if we want a church wedding or a beach wedding. But you’ll design my wedding dress, of course!” 

 

Between the talk of family drama and weddings, Galadriel thought she preferred the first option. Weddings have a way of remembering oneself of their own, and it was something she would rather not think about right now, not when she was starting to have a good time in Númenor. Galadriel just took another olive and ate it. 

 

“Are you married, Galadriel?” The bride turned to face her with the dreaded question. 

 

“I was.” She replied, a bit awkwardly. 

 

“Oh, what happened?” Mairen insisted. “Divorce?” 

 

“No, he—” Galadriel swallowed dry. “He died.” 

 

“Oh, two widowers at the same table.” Elendil said, with an emphatic look on his face, and Galadriel understood he was talking about himself. "Life goes on. It gets better with time, and with the help of friends."

 

“Are you ready to order?” The waiter returned to their table, with a notebook in hand, and Galadriel silently thank him for his timing. This was a conversation she didn’t want to have, not tonight.

 

The group ordered different fish dishes, salads, and white and rosé wine bottles. They recommended Galadriel to try the seafood, and she accepted their suggestion. She ordered sparkling water, and was met with bewildered looks. She must try the wine, too. Galadriel tried to tell them she rarely drinks alcohol, but tonight is for celebration, she was told.

 

“So... are you enjoying Númenor so far?” Valandil tried to lighten up the mood. 

 

“Yes,” Galadriel shrugged. “I haven’t seen much of it, yet, but it is beautiful. Míriel told me today is one of your main religious festivities?” 

 

“Yes, it’s the Erulaitalë,” Valandil confirmed. “You missed the religious ceremony during daytime, but the night festivities are worth it, too.”

 

“What happens at night?” 

 

“There’s no religious celebration at night,” Eärien chuckled, brushing off Valandil’s words, playfully. “It’s just a huge party in the entire island. We have dinner, and then we go down to the beach to launch sky lanterns. It’s supposed to be in praise of Eru Ilúvatar, but nowadays most make a wish.”

 

“We still make a wish to Ilúvatar.” Valandil insisted. “We take great pride in our traditions.”  

 

“Valandil, here, is very religious,” Eärien said, while touching his arm in an affectionate manner. “Me, not so much.”

 

“I would say the mainland is having a bad influence on you, Eärien, but we all know who it is to blame.” Valandil replied, almost bitter. 

 

“Oh, please!” Eärien rolled her eyes. “He’s not even here. And I could have invited him to join us.”

 

“No one wants Kemen to join us.” Isildur said, with a serious face. 

 

“You got that right!” Ontamo nodded in agreement. 

 

“Children!” Elendil intervened, and then signaled towards Míriel. “Be respectful.” 

 

“Oh, don’t worry about me,” Míriel laughed. “I don’t have ties with my cousin’s son. I haven’t talk to him in years, and he’s probably all grown-up, now.” 

 

“Well, I happen to like Kemen,” Eärien stood her ground. “And I’ll meet with him later. He’s having dinner with his family.”

 

“I don’t know what you see in that guy,” Valandil sighed. “He’s a spoiled, egomaniac, daddy’s boy—” He cut himself off when he noticed Elendil’s gaze upon him. “If you want to meet with Kemen, later, fine. Just don’t ask us to go with you.”  

 

“Why won’t you just give him a chance?” Eärien asked, almost exasperated. “You just decided you don’t like him because he’s Pharazôn’s son. I think you are just jealous!”

 

Galadriel was observing the scene while eating a piece of cheese, but she did agree with Eärien because Valandil did look jealous of Kemen. Not because he’s the mayor’s son, but because of Eärien herself. The boy seemed to have a crush on her, and Kemen did too, if this conversation was anything to go by.

 

“I’ll go with you,” Isildur said to Eärien, and both Valandil and Ontamo looked at him, with slight confusion. “There’s no way I’ll let my sister just hang out with Kemen, all by yourself, tonight.”

 

“What is that supposed to mean?” Eärien asked, almost insulted. 

 

“Don’t be naïve, sister. You know exactly what he wants from you—”

 

The waiter arrived with the food, while Eärien’s cheeks reddened, and she tried to escape her father’s eye, deeply embarrassed. 

 

“Aren’t you a class act, brother?” Eärien said with bitterness, when the waiter left. “I know how to take care of myself. I'm not a child anymore.”

 

“And that’s why I need to keep an eye on you and that—”

 

“Isildur, that’s enough,” Elendil cut him off, with a serious tone. “You are embarrassing your sister and our guest.”

 

“But, dad, how are you ok with this?” Isildur asked, his hand pointing to Eärien. “Let her go around town alone with that dickhead?”

 

“Your sister has more sense than you,” Elendil said. “I worry more about you than I do with her. Now, eat your fish.” He took a sip of white wine. “Galadriel, pay no mind to my kids. You must be thinking we are terrible hosts.”

 

“No, not at all,” Galadriel reassured him, and she mean it. At least, their bickering made her forget all about the previous awkward conversation. “I am grateful for having been invited.”

 

The rest of the dinner went on with no more talks of family drama or widowers, to Galadriel’s relief. They ate, and they drink. In the meantime, more wine arrived at their table, and Galadriel kept declining temptations to drink. It was too much alcohol for her, and decided to stick to her sparkling water after her third cup of wine. Míriel and her friends were funny, and amusing, and Galadriel found herself actually enjoying their company and decided she had made the right choice in accepting Míriel’s invitation. 

 

After dessert and paying the check, the group went down to the beach to the promised sky lantern launching, and Galadriel was certain Númenor was equally busy by night.

 

The streets downtown were overflowing with people. Some already had sky lanterns in hand, while others held plastic cups of all kinds of beverages. There was music and street food carts and beer tents all along the main avenue of the coastline, right at the beach. It was a true festival, and Galadriel couldn't exactly say she has ever been to one before. Her teenage years were very sheltered, and she became a wife at twenty, and a widow two years later. She has only heard about such events by the descriptions given to her by others. 

 

Isildur was being exceptionally nice to her, and despite their obvious ten-years age gap, Galadriel could sense his flirtation, which she didn’t exactly appreciate but decided not to make a fuss about it, and dismiss it as him being fairly young, and foolish. Valandil was still trying to dissuade Eärien from meeting with Kemen, the bride and groom talked about little else other than their wedding plans, and Elendil appeared to have eyes for no one else but Míriel. It couldn’t be more obvious he was in love with her, and judging by the looks she gave him on occasion, the feeling was mutual.

 

They stopped right at the beach, just one final flight of stairs away, and the youth volunteered to go get sky lanterns for the group, while Galadriel was left alone with Míriel and Elendil. She felt like a third wheel immediately, which wasn’t a feeling she could say to enjoy, because she didn't recall ever experiencing it. She didn’t with Disa and Durin, because Elrond was always there. She spotted a beer tent from afar, behind their backs, right in their direction.

 

“I think I’ll get us something to drink.” Galadriel said to Míriel and Elendil. 

 

“Do you want us to come with you?” Míriel asked, looking around the gigantic crowd standing between them and the beer tent ahead. 

 

“No need,” Galadriel said. “It's not that far away. What do you want?” 

 

“I can have a beer.” Elendil shrugged. 

 

“Yes, me too.” Míriel agreed with a smile, her hand on Elendil’s arm. 

 

“Alright,” Galadriel took mental note of two beers. Then, she looked at the white shawl on her hands, and decided to take a chance. “If it’s not too much to ask, can you hold this for me? I’m afraid to spoil it.”

 

“Of course!” Míriel agreed and accepted the shawl. “No problem.” 

 

“Thank you.” Galadriel said. “I’ll be right back.” 

 

She went towards the tent, spearing through the crowd, but it was difficult to walk among so many people, left and right. Some were already carrying drinks, coming from the tent, and asking people to be careful. Galadriel kept her eyes focused on the target, taking a deep breath.  

 

Then, she overheard a familiar voice calling for her, right as she was passing by. 

 

“Mrs. Galadriel, hey!” Bronwyn waved, almost shocked to see her there. “It’s so good to see you leaving the resort!” 

 

“Just Galadriel, please,” Galadriel asked, and then looked at the man, and teenager standing beside the therapist and just smiled. “I’m here with some new friends!” 

 

“Good for you!” Bronwyn cheered, and then turned to the men at her side. “This is my boyfriend, Arondir. And my son, Theo.” 

 

“Nice to meet you, both.” Galadriel smiled, and they gave her back a smile. “I’m headed to the bar to get some drinks. See you around!” 

 

“See you!” Bronwyn said, and as Galadriel was turning her back to go her own way, she yelled. “Don’t forget my advice!” Galadriel looked at her, over her shoulder, a bit petrified, but the therapist only winked, and grinned, playfully. 

 

Galadriel just swallowed dry, and shook the thought out of her head.

 

After bumping against shoulders, arms and backs, she arrived at the counter of the beer tent, at last. But there were so many people waiting to be served, and only four young people working, she begin to fear she could stay there for hours on end. 

 

“What’s a beautiful lady such as yourself doing here, all by herself?” A man approached her, almost breaching Galadriel’s personal space, and she forced herself to smile out of politeness but begging to be left alone, and as she was getting away, another man appeared on her left side, preventing her from doing so.  

 

“She’s very pretty, indeed.” The newly arrived man laughed, looking at Galadriel up and down. “Looks like a fairy, almost!” 

 

“Or an Elf!” The first man laughed, but Galadriel didn’t see much fun in that. “I’m Tamar. What’s your name, sweet thing?”  

 

“I’m here with my friends.” Galadriel found herself saying, while looking above her shoulder, but she couldn’t see one familiar face in the crowd behind her.

 

“We can be your friends, too,” Tamar said, as he drew near Galadriel’s body. “Can I buy you a drink?” 

 

“No, thank you.” Galadriel declined, as politely as she could manage, but inside of her mind she already told them to get lost a thousand times over. 

 

“What are you doing at the bar if you don’t want anything to drink, sweetheart?” The other man said, as he, too, came closer to her. “Waiting for the right man to come along, right? With that cute dress? It should be shorter!”

 

“I’m waiting to order,” Galadriel looking the man in the face. “And I would appreciate if you would just leave me alone.”

 

“Look at the mouth on her! That’s no way of talking to a man who’s showing his interest in you!” Tamar interjected, and grabbed Galadriel's arm, his fingers squeezing at her flesh. “You think you are too good for us, is that it?”

 

“Remove your hand.” Galadriel looked at Tamar, her face serious.

 

“I don’t think I will,” Tamar grinned, and tightened his grip on her arm. “I think you need to be taught a lesson.”

 

“Damn right, she does,” The other man approached and locked Galadriel between him and Tamar, his hand on her other arm, preventing her from moving, or leaving. “You women nowadays think you are better than us, but you are nothing more than spoiled bitches!” 

 

“There you are, love,” A familiar and friendly male voice talked behind their backs, and Galadriel held her breath. It was a voice a part of her has been wanting to hear all night. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you.”

Notes:

The Great Bear-dance of Tompollë is the great festival of Númenor in the books ("The Nature of Middle-earth", by Tolkien scholar Carl Franklin Hostetter), and there are three events ("Three Prayers") in preparation throughout the year: Erukyermë (Prayer to Eru); Erulaitalë (Praise of Eru), and Eruhantalë (Thanksgiving to Eru). As far as I’m aware, we don’t know “when” these events happen, so I’m really fanfictioning the Erulaitalë happening in the summer.

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed it!

Chapter 3: Dispute About a Woman

The men released their hold on Galadriel, and she felt them trembling, as if they were terrified of something, or someone.

 

“Sh—She’s with you?” Tamar asked, taking a step back from Galadriel, and looking over her shoulder. 

 

“Yes,” The man replied, and Galadriel felt his arms around her shoulder, intimate but not overly so. When she looked up, she saw Halbrand, even though she recognized his voice immediately. “And right now, you are upsetting her just by breathing in her presence. Apologize.” 

 

Tamar and the other man acted like chastised children, and Galadriel could tell there was some history between them and Halbrand, as they were visibly shaking just by looking at him.

 

“Apologize to her, now.” Halbrand repeated, his voice serious.

 

"I— I'm sorry." Tamar said, but didn't even look at Galadriel.

 

“You have to be more specific, scumbag.” Halbrand said with a deadly look on his eyes. 

 

“I’m sorry—for upsetting you—for the things I said.” 

 

“You won’t bother her, ever again,” On Halbrand’s voice there was a veil threat. “Or you will have to deal with me, and we all know how that’s bound to end. Now, leave us the fuck alone.” 

 

The two men went away as quick as their feet could carry them. Halbrand removed his arm from around Galadriel’s shoulder, and went to her side, placing his elbow on the counter, a bottle of beer on his hand.

 

“Aren’t you the troublemaker?” Halbrand said, with an amused expression on his face. “Twice now I had to come to your rescue.” 

 

"I had it under control," Galadriel said, almost spitefully. “You didn't need to play the hero. I was fi—” 

 

“Don’t tell me you were fine,” Halbrand cut her off, with a serious tone. “Those vermin could have dragged you into an alley, and no one would have said a word about it.” 

 

"I hardly doubt that," Galadriel said, in defiance. "I would have broken their kneecaps before that happened."

 

“So you are upset because I prevented you from breaking their noses, and teeth?” Halbrand chuckled while taking a gulp from his beer. “I won’t stand in your way, if there’s a next time.” 

 

“Thank you." Galadriel eventually said. "For making them go away without causing a scene. I don't think the Númenóreans would have warm up to me if I was to break someone's nose during their religious holiday," She lowered her gaze to his drink. “I’ll get that.” 

 

“Oh, no need,” Halbrand looked down at his beer. “I already paid for my drink.” 

 

“Then, let me pay for the next one,” Galadriel insisted. “As gratitude.” 

 

“I might not want another one.” Halbrand cocked his brow, teasing her. 

 

“Oh, please,” Galadriel rolled her eyes. “It’s a warm night, and I highly doubt you would refuse a second beer.” 

 

“Why, do I look like an alcoholic to you?” Halbrand chuckled, his body facing in her direction, and Galadriel couldn’t deny his confidence had an effect on her, one she might not dare to admit, at least, not out loud. 

 

“Drinking two beers would hardly make you an alcoholic,” Galadriel replied, sharply. “But if that’s an issue, I’m sure they sell no-alcohol brews.” 

 

“You can buy me a regular one,” Halbrand laughed, placing both of his elbows on the counter. “You are very uptight, aren’t you? And they used to call me control freak in... my previous job.” 

 

“Uptight?” Galadriel asked, almost insulted how he dared to be so bold and say such a thing to her face. 

 

“Yes,” Halbrand took a gulp of his beer. “You need to relax, Galadriel. Live a little.” 

 

“You mean joke around like you do?” 

 

“What makes you believe I joke around?” Halbrand turned to face her. 

 

“For a start, your entire demeanor,” Galadriel said, her shoulders standing up straight. “I can’t barely tell when you are being serious, or when you are joking.” 

 

“Well, truth be told, you barely know me,” Halbrand recalled, drinking a bit more of his beer. “We’ve only met twice. By chance. And because you needed assistance, princess.”

 

“Princess?” Galadriel couldn’t believe his nerve.

 

“You clearly come from money,” Halbrand looked at her, up and down. “Don’t you?” 

 

“I don’t see why that’s relevant.” Galadriel took a deep inhale, and refused to meet his gaze, and then called for the bartender. “Can I get a Manhattan, please? And another beer for him? Thank you.” 

 

“Like I said,” Halbrand grinned while taking a sip of his beer. “Princess.” 

 

“I don’t like the taste of beer.” Galadriel shrugged. 

 

“Hmm, hmm,” Halbrand smiled, almost sarcastically, and then put down the beer. “A fancy cocktail for a fancy princess, who probably only knows fancy people. You don't only come from money, but from Old money.” 

 

Galadriel found herself rolling her eyes. How could this man be so irritating and charming at the same time? The bartender delivered the drinks and Galadriel placed the money on the counter. She took a sip from her cocktail, and felt it burning down her throat. That’s strong!

 

“And what are you doing here, anyway?” Galadriel asked him, taking the maraschino cherry of the glass and taking a bite.

 

“It’s the Erulaitalë, and I live around here,” Halbrand replied, as if it was obvious. “This is my part of town, princess.” He drank a bit of his beer, his eyes never leaving her face. “I should be asking you that question. What got into you to be out here all alone?”

 

“I’m not alone,” Galadriel replied, and seemed almost proud of it. “I’m here with my new friends. We went out to dinner, and now we are here for the sky lanterns launching. I was promised it’s quite a show.”

 

“Look at you, befriending the locals, already.” Halbrand remarked, and Galadriel tried to conceal her pride. “ Impressive.”  

 

“And are you here with someone?” Galadriel asked, almost in a coy manner, as if she was asking something she shouldn’t. She looked down at his hands and saw no ring, but rings could be taken off.

 

“No,” Halbrand replied, with a hint of a grin on his face. “And no, I’m not married. I don't have a girlfriend, either."

 

“I wasn’t asking.” Galadriel said, and took a sip of her cocktail, ashamed she could be so transparent. 

 

“You were thinking it.” Halbrand quickly came back at her, with a knowledgeable expression. "And you?"

 

"I'm single, too." Galadriel replied, and then thought why she didn’t want to disclose her widow status to him. She didn’t exactly know why, but she didn’t wish to talk about Celeborn with him, ashamed she was betraying his memory for some reason. “I should be heading back to my group. I went to fetch us some drinks and got carried away.”

 

“Of course, you should.” 

 

Galadriel tried to get the bartender’s attention again, and managed to ask for two beers. She could see Halbrand just standing there, elbow on the counter, and decided to take her most bold movement yet. 

 

“Would you like to join us?” Galadriel asked him, and he looked at her a bit surprised.“Since you are here all by yourself, and this is such an important holiday... Perhaps, you would like to watch the sky lanterns with us?”

 

“You mean... spend the night with you?” Halbrand teased her.

 

“With me and my new friends, yes.” 

 

“Alright,” Halbrand nodded. “Sure.” He finished his drink and placed the empty bottle on the counter.

 

Halbrand helped her carrying the drinks, and when they rejoined the group, the younger crowd was already there. Eärien was now accompanied by a young man with dark blonde hair and blue eyes Galadriel hasn’t met yet, but an intuition told her this must be the infamous Kemen. She turned out to be correct when the introductions where made. Míriel's group, it seemed, wasn’t acquainted with Halbrand personally, but have heard of his shop, and were impressed by his resourcefulness in saving a tourist.

 

“Well, you seem like the right man to have on a tight spot, Halbrand!” Míriel complimented him , and the group laughed alongside her.

  

They all went down to the beach, and along with sky lanterns, the youngsters brought more alcohol. A few bottles of fruit punch, beer and even champagne. The crowds were started to flood the seaside, as the launching of the lanterns was about to start. Even though he just met these people, Galadriel noticed Halbrand was at ease, and he was charming and polite, making conversation and small talk with no trouble whatsoever. There was an undeniable allure about him, some sort of enigmatic magnetism. Galadriel tried not to think too much about it, nor about how attractive she found him.

 

They were able to find an empty spot on the beach, and laid down the bottles on the sand, and each one of them was given a sky lantern by Isildur and Valandil. There were people all around them, and so much laugher, loud voices and music from afar, Galadriel couldn’t even hear the ocean.

 

“Well, Galadriel,” Isildur said with mischief, while handing her a sky lantern, she accepted and observed the blue paper with golden sun drawings. “Since you are a virgin—” 

 

“Isildur!” Elendil immediately intervened to chastise him for his words, while Galadriel felt herself both embarrassed and bewildered by his boldness, the stupidity of youth.  

 

“What? It’s her first time in our sky lantern launching!” Isildur laughed, brushing it off, while both Valandil and Ontamo gave him a look of reproval. 

 

"Don't take offense, Galadriel, that's just Isildur being Isildur," Valandil said to Galadriel, rolling his eyes in annoyance at his friend's behavior. “Always the child, with no responsibility or manners.” 

 

“None taken.” Galadriel managed to smile. “You were saying, Isildur?” 

 

“See? No harm done,” Isildur held his head high, and smiled, looking around the group. “As I was saying, and since this is your first time, Galadriel... You need to know what you’re getting yourself into.”

 

“Stop it, you two!” Eärien interjected to Isildur and Valandil, clearly irritated by their conduct, and then turned to Galadriel and Halbrand. “First, we light the lanterns, and then, before letting them up in the air, we make a wish.”

  

“Any wish?” Galadriel asked her.  

 

“Yes, you can ask for anything you like,” Eärien replied, with a smile. “Love, success, money, friendship, health... anything!” 

 

Galadriel wasn’t sure what she was meant to wish for. In the past ten years, there has been only one wish on her mind, and it was to find Sauron. 

 

“It’s tradition to ask Ilúvatar, and thank Him for granting us our wish.” Valandil added. 

 

“You thank your God in advance?” Halbrand asked, with curiosity in his voice. 

 

“Of course,” Valandil replied as if it was the most obvious thing in the world, but Galadriel understood where Halbrand was coming from. “We thank Him for listening, as well. Humility is a virtue.”   

 

Around them, the voices grew louder, and Míriel immediately signaled them. “Friends, friends!” She took a lighter from her pocket and handed it to Elendil next to her. “It’s starting! It’s time to light our lanterns.”

 

Galadriel and Halbrand were the last ones to ignite their lanterns. Galadriel, truth be told, wasn’t that much accustomed to use a lighter for really anything, but she managed on her own, without burning the paper, her worst fear. The launching was just seconds away, and she looked down at the fire, wondering what she might wish for.  

 

“Ready to make a wish?” Halbrand whispered to her. “It’s my first time, too. So, I guess, we are both virgins, tonight.” He looked down at Galadriel, with a hint of a grin on his lips, and Galadriel found herself nearly blushing from the intense gaze he gave her. She sought to escaped his hungry eyes, to fight whatever she was feeling. Something she hasn't in a very long, long time. Or maybe she never did.

 

Her thoughts were interrupted by the crowd around her yelling the countdown for the launching, and before Galadriel realize it, her arms were already stretched and propelling the lantern to raise into the night sky, and dance among the constellations above. There was no wish in her mind, in particular. She just stood there; observing the thousands of sky lanterns ascending from the beach, and painting the sky golden with fire. It was if the stars were coming up from the earth to join their pairs. It was a beautiful view, and, all of the sudden, Galadriel felt emotional, but she couldn’t really pinpoint why.

 

She guessed, her greatest desire was peace of mind, and soul.  

 

“Who wants a drink?” Isildur asked, and went down to grab a few plastic cups, giving them away between the group. Galadriel accepted the cup from Halbrand’s hand, and noticed he was still observing her with that look on his eyes. This time, she smiled back at him, but it was quick, meant for his eyes only.

 

“Yes! Pop the champagne!” Míriel said with enthusiasm. “Tonight is for celebration!” 

 

Soon after, there was music on the beach, and fireworks. The Númenóreans weren’t wrong when they told Galadriel there would be a gigantic party in the entire island. She wasn’t used to this sort of events, at all. But, to her surprise, she found herself enjoying it, and having a good time. The champagne bottle was over as soon as it was opened, and another one was on its way. She wasn’t used to drink this much, but she didn’t think about that, at all. She was loosening up, and she felt free.  

 

“Are you used to drink this much, princess?” Halbrand asked her with that taunting tone of his, looking down at her cup, after Valandil had filled it for the fifth time in a row. “You might want to slow down.” 

 

“Just hours ago, you were calling me uptight,” Galadriel said, taking a sip from her drink. “Telling me I need to relax, and live a little.”  

 

“I didn’t mean it as in get yourself drunk.” 

 

“What’s your deal, Halbrand?” Galadriel asked, and loose from the drink, touched his chest with her finger. “Do you just go around charming everyone who comes your way? Is that what you do?” 

 

“Charming?” Halbrand laughed. “Am I charming, hm?”  

 

“I didn’t say that.” Galadriel said, almost with false indifference. “I was just saying...” Then, the words died in her mouth because a sudden idea came into her mind. “Do you want to dance?” 

 

“I don’t dance, princess.” 

 

“It’s a party!” Galadriel recalled, and grabbed his hands, free of restraint. “Come, dance with me! I haven’t dance in such a long time!” Then, she looked above her shoulder with a serious expression. "And stop calling me that!"

 

Halbrand went to meet her and turned to face her with a grin on his lips. “Whatever you say,” Then, his hand reached forward to gently brush her chin. “Princess.”  

 

He was annoying, and charming, Galadriel considered. And he lied about not dancing, she found out soon enough. He was a pretty good dancer, after all. Her entire world was spinning, and there was no other thoughts in her head besides dancing, and drinking. The music was drumming in her ears, that irritating Deep House beat she loathed, but now it was the best music in the world. She felt nothing else but freedom, and carefreeness.

 

All her worries forgotten while she was dancing with this stranger, this Halbrand. Was he a stranger, still? He was extremely handsome, Galadriel considered. With his blue linen shirt, buttoned just enough for a few hairs on his chest to be visible, and that beard, and a few strands of auburn hair falling in front of his hazel eyes, as he was dancing with her. And he had a gorgeous smile. Yes, he was very attractive, and she was dangerously attracted to him. 

 

Not soon after finishing her drink, Galadriel began to feel her head getting light. She felt so airy, as if she was weightless. And she wanted to lie down and rest, but just kept dancing. She didn’t know if it was the alcohol in her blood making her dizzy or the dance itself, but her entire world collapsed and the beach was turning upside down. She nearly landed on the sand, if not for Halbrand’s strong arms preventing her to. She could feel the firmness of his muscles on her fingertips, and his chest against her cheek. And he smelled oddly good. Mainly. Woody. A bit of smoke and ash, too. It was intoxicating her more than any sip of fruit punch ever could.  

 

“Hey, hey...” Galadriel saw nothing more than Halbrand’s concerned face right in front of her eyes, but he appeared blurry. “Are you alright?” His strong hands were on her arms, keeping her place and preventing her from falling over, again. “Right. Time to go.” Then, he turned to face her new group of friends. “I’ll take Galadriel back to the hotel. See you around, guys.”

 

 

* * *  

 

 

The sun was shining bright throught the window, causing Galadriel to stir from her sleep. She groaned at the light in her eyelids, and turned to the other side to escape it, but her head hurt like it was about to explode. She felt lost for a bit, unsure of what was happening or where she was. She slowly opened her eyes, and found herself in her hotel room. Her mouth was dry as sand, a tart flavour in her tongue, and she was warm. Was she sick? What happened? She slowly sit on the bed, her hands on her forehead. What a massive headache! Probably from all the alcohol she drank. She had a hangover.  

 

Galadriel was still wearing her dress from last night, and she slept over the bed. At least, she was barefoot, her sandals lying on the floor, near the door. "What?" She found herself saying. Everything seemed to be the right place, but she didn’t remember how she got here. She recalled being at the beach, at a party, with Míriel and her friends, and Halbrand... and then oblivion.

 

“Good morning, princess.” Halbrand came out of the terrace into the room, the linen curtains swirling around his tall frame. He was shirtless, wearing nothing more than his trousers, and Galadriel looked away, her cheeks burning.

 

“Halbrand— What are you doing here?” Galadriel asked with confusion, her head throbbing. 

 

“You don’t remember?” He asked her, cocking his eyebrow. 

 

“Remember what?”  

 

“I brought you back to your hotel,” Halbrand replied, as if it was the most obvious thing in the entire world. “You had a lot to drink last night.” 

 

“And you just... spent the night?” Galadriel asked, and her eyes landed on her nightstand, to check her phone. Then, she felt her entire body freezing when she saw a package of condoms. And it was opened, one of the wrappers shining through the cardboard box. “Oh, God— did we....?” 

 

“Did we, what, Galadriel?” Halbrand chuckled.  

 

“Did we—?” Galadriel couldn’t even say it out loud, her blood appeared to have frozen on her veins. But she didn't feel a thing on her body aside from a massive headache, no physical indication they might have... that they... But she couldn’t even recall ever getting to her hotel room, in the first place. “Do it?” 

 

“You have to be more specific.”

 

But she was afraid to ask.

 

“Did we— had sex last night?” 

Notes:

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed it!

Chapter 4: Adrift

Notes:

Next couple of chapters will be about the development of Galadriel and Halbrand’s relationship, and things might get spicy (the rating will change when that happens)

Halbrand stood there, against the window, his face serious. Galadriel dreading his answer, because while she didn’t have any recollection of the previous hours, he appeared to remember everything. In the worst case scenario, they seemed to have used protection, at the very least. Then, Halbrand just laughed and shook his head. 

 

“No, Galadriel,” He answered. “We did not have sex last night.” 

 

“Then, why—?” She pointed to the condom box in her nightstand. 

 

“I wasn’t able to stop you from buying those at the vending machine on our way here. You were... very insistent.” Halbrand explained, his facial expression letting on she might not have been in her best behavior during those hours. “Then, when we got here you... wanted to use them. I told you no.” 

 

“Oh, God—” Galadriel buried her head between her hands. “What did I do? What did I say?” 

 

“Don’t worry about it.” Halbrand brush it off. 

 

“No! I want to know!”  

 

“You said I’m very handsome, and charming... I believe the word "sexy" might have been used. And you wanted us to... you know.” Halbrand replied, his fingers pushing his hair out of his eyes. “I did a lot of stuff I’m not proud of, in the past, Galadriel... some really bad stuff... but taking advantage of drunken women was never one of them.” 

 

“This is embarrassing,” Galadriel sighed, unable to look at his face. “But why is the box open?” 

 

“You opened it yourself,” Halbrand replied. “You were... very insistent on trying to have sex with me. You said it has been years and—”

 

Galadriel could see flashes of herself grinding against his body, trying to lead him to her bed, trying to unbutton his shirt. His hands on her shoulders telling her it was not a good idea, she was too drunk, she would regret it come morning, and she needed to get some sleep. And Galadriel felt deeply embarrassed. This couldn’t be happening. Did she lose her mind, last night? No more alcohol from now on.

 

“Alright. I get the picture.” Galadriel replied, unable to look him in the face. “But— where did you sleep?” Halbrand pointed outside, to the terrace, and Galadriel was puzzled. “Outside?”

 

“You got a really nice couch there,” Halbrand shrugged. “And it was a warm night, and I was even able to see the sunrise before falling asleep.” 

 

“Outside,” Galadriel muttered to herself, and was grateful for no one being able to take a glimpse of her terrace, otherwise the other guests or the resort staff would be wondering why there was a man sleeping there. “You slept outside.” 

 

“I wasn’t going to sleep in here with you,” Halbrand said, and then a mischievous grin appeared on his face. “You might jump on me during the night.”

 

“It’s not funny.” Galadriel said in a serious tone. 

 

“Come on, it’s a bit funny,” Halbrand chuckled. “Don’t feel embarrassed. It’s nothing that hasn’t happened to me before.” 

 

“Aren’t you the Casanova?” Galadriel rolled her eyes. “If that’s supposed to make me feel any better, it doesn’t. I made a fool out of myself.”

 

“No,” Halbrand came closer to her on the bed, and he sounded honest. “It was very hard for me to resist you. It’s a shame you were drunk... If you weren’t, we could have had a great time together. I would have not said no.” 

 

Galadriel felt her face burning, and lowered her gaze, unable to deal with the boldness of his gaze.  

 

“I was drunk.” She eventually said. “I didn’t know what I was saying or doing. I apologize for my behavior."

 

“So, you don’t think I’m very handsome, or charming?” Halbrand sat beside her in the bed, and Galadriel found herself recoiling, out of shame more than anything else. “Or sexy?” She tried to escape his gaze, but she could see his mischievous grin from the corner of her eye. He was dangerously close, and not wearing a shirt. She couldn’t face him, but tried not to stare at his bare chest, either. “I happen to think you are very beautiful, and sexy. And you probably don’t even know how attractive you are.”

 

“Oh, I know I’m beautiful,” Galadriel replied, a paltry attempt to escape his attentions. “Not sure about sexy, though.”

 

“You are.” Halbrand smiled, on his eyes a intense shine.

 

“Right,” Galadriel chuckled, almost timidly, and shook her head. “I need to go take a shower, and change." 

 

“You want me to leave?”

 

“No,” Galadriel stopped him, and grabbed his lower arm, almost as in an instinct, and he looked down on her, surprised. She let go of him, when she noticed what she had done. “No, the least I can do is buy you some breakfast.” 

 

“Breakfast?” Halbrand smiled. “It’s past noon.” 

 

“I’ve spent the entire morning sleeping!?”  

 

“We came back really late,” Halbrand said. “It was nearly sunrise.” 

 

“Well— I can buy you lunch, then,” Galadriel rectified, and tried to get up from the bed, and felt her head spinning a bit. “I’m not very hungry, myself.” 

 

“You need to get something to eat,” Halbrand insisted, observing as she rose to her feet. “Look, I don’t have plans for today. My shop is closed. I can keep you company, if you want.” 

 

Galadriel looked at him, considering if she wanted his company while hangovered, or not. Well, Halbrand put up with her drunken self last night, after all. And proved he could be trusted. Most men would probably not have refused what she tried to pull off, and would have taken advantage of her condition.

 

“Sure,” Galadriel eventually said. “At least, I get the chance to cause a good impression after last night.” 

 

“Look at you, cracking jokes,” Halbrand smiled, and Galadriel rolled her eyes. “I’ll stay at the terrace while you get ready.” 

 

“Do you want to take a shower, also?” 

 

“You mean— with you?” Halbrand teased her. 

 

“No, not with me,” Galadriel rolled her eyes. “Afterwards.”

 

“I already went for a swim in your infinity pool, while you were sleeping. I’m good.”

 

“You went for a swim?” Galadriel asked, almost in disbelief. “You go to parties with your swimwear on, often?” 

 

“Swimwear?” Halbrand asked with confusion, and then his face brightened up. “Oh, no, no! I went for a swim naked, and then dried out in the sun.”

 

Galadriel cleared her throat, and pictured herself awaking up and go to the terrace only to find him there, lying down on the sofa, naked. It was getting warmer in that room, she considered.

 

“And what if I had woken up and found you there?”

 

“You clearly have seen naked men before, so—” Halbrand shrugged, brushing it off as if it was of no consequence.

 

“Right— I’m going to take a shower.” Galadriel replied, trying her best to hide her embarrassment, and failing at it. She got up from the bed, unable to look at Halbrand, while she collected a clean set of clothes from the closet. She hoped a cold bath would soothe whatever feverish madness came over her during the night. She took mental note of not drinking again anytime soon.

 

 

* * *

 

 

Halbrand had the courtesy of waiting for her outside, in the terrace. And in the meantime, he had put his shirt back on. Galadriel felt much better after freshen-up, and putting on clean clothes, but the headache was still plaguing her, as well as the sun shining through the windows. She put her sunglasses on, and signaled Halbrand it was time to go. He looked slightly amused by seeing her like this, wearing sunglasses indoors, but said nothing. Galadriel decided he had a way of pulling all the right strings in her, both good and bad. 

 

When they went pass the reception area, Galadriel couldn’t help but try to catch a glimpse of the worker there. Would he say something because she had a man with her? A man who, clearly, hasn’t checked in alongside her and shouldn’t be here, at all. Yet, and to her relief, the receptionist did not even notice as they walked by, his eyes focused on the computer in front of him.

 

“I know you offered to pay, but I can’t have you spending a fortune on lunch on the tourist side of town,” Halbrand said once they exited the resort, and were climbing down the stairs to the main street. “Do you fancy an adventure?”  

 

“What sort of adventure?” Galadriel asked, a bit apprehensive, for today she was not in her best mood, her head hurting like hell itself.

 

“We could go downtown, closer to where I live,” He answered with a smile. “It’s cheaper. And it might surprise you, but the food is better.” 

 

“I’m not up for walking up and down the cliffs, today, Halbrand.” Galadriel replied, her voice a bit tired. “I feel as if my head is about to explode.”

 

“They have the perfect medicine for hangovers, downtown.” Halbrand said. “And if you don’t want to climb all the way up here, you can always sleep at my place.” 

 

“Or I can rent a horse.” Galadriel teased him, and that made Halbrand chuckle.

 

She did want to explore Númenor, she has barely seen any of it, yet. And eventually, Galadriel accepted Halbrand’s invitation for an adventure. If anyone could show her a different side of town, it was one of the locals.  

 

Halbrand led the way down the treads carved into the cliffs, and each flight of stairs appeared to make her head throb. Yet, the gentle breeze from the sea on her face and hair kept her cool, and able to breathe. The day was hot, but not overly so, which was a relief. And the city was already filled with tourists, all around. For such a paradise, it surely was busy day and night. But soon, Halbrand took her down unfamiliar, narrow streets where the tourists didn’t flock to.

 

They were near the beach, Galadriel could smell the sea clearer here, but this area was quieter, and less polished, as well. Halbrand eventually took her to a small establishment, a tiny restaurant of sorts, where older people were drinking glasses of wine, and nibbling on small portions of shrimp and other seafood. Inside, Halbrand made the honors of ordering for her, and while Galadriel interjected, he hasn't having it. Soon after, a bowl of chicken soup was brought to their table, and she recognized it immediately. Halbrand ordered a dish of clams and mussels, steaming hot, and some bread, for himself.

 

“Your medicine, as promised.” Halbrand grinned, pointing at the bowl in front of her. 

 

“I’ve had this soup, before,” Galadriel said, unimpressed, and took a spoon in hand to stir it. “It was my first dinner here, on Númenor, the night before last.” 

 

“It’s good to smooth the stomach,” Halbrand said. “I must confess I’m a bit surprised you didn’t throw up, with all things considered.”  

 

“I would prefer not to discuss such things while I’m trying to eat.” Galadriel said, with a serious expression on her face, and breathed into the spoon, to cool the soup before taking it into her mouth.

 

The chicken soup looked more rustic than the one she had back at the resort, but it tasted good, all the same. A different kind of good, almost like home. And it was recomforting, for sure. Like a precious balm involping her, and her headache was nearly gone when she finished eating. In the meantime, Halbrand ordered a beer and asked her if she wanted one. Galadriel promptly refused. No more alcohol after last night, was her new rule.

 

“You know,” Halbrand said, while taking a sip of his beer. “Some say the true cure for hangovers is to drink some more.”

 

“That sounds like terrible advice.” 

 

They both found themselves laughting at that.

 

They went down to the beach, afterwards. But Halbrand took her to a more secluded part, and they were the only people there, the entire beach area for their own amusement. He took his sandals off once he step onto the sand, and Galadriel did the same. The sun was sparkling on the water, and she had no concept of what time it was, but the sunset appeared to be a few hours away. Where did the time went? It flew by, it seems. They spent hours in each company by now, but Galadriel hasn’t felt the clock ticking. 

 

Halbrand stopped walking near the sea, and placed his sandals on the sand and started to unbottom his shirt. Galadriel was took back by his action, and looked away for a moment.  

 

“Want to go for a swin?” Halbrand asked her with that charming smile of his, as he folded his shirt and put it on top of his sandals.

 

“I didn’t bring any swinwear.” Galadriel replied, as if it was obvious. 

 

“Neither did I,” Halbrand shrugged. “And what’s the matter? We are the only ones here.” 

 

“I’m— I'm not going to undress in front of you,” Galadriel replied, and her cheeks were burning all of the sudden, and she refused to glance at his body. Halbrand, on the other hand, didn’t seem to mind any of it, and was already unfastening his belt. “And I’m not going to swin in the ocean in my underwear.”

 

“Why not?” Halbrand laughed, almost in confusion. “What’s the difference between your underwear and a bikini?” He unbuttoned his trousers and removed them down his legs. “Unless, you are wearing some... interesting set of lingerie, I don’t see why it’s a problem.”

 

That stroke a nerve in Galadriel, and she took it as a challenge. She started by removing her white blouse, and then her shorts. She never took her eyes off his face, defiance all over her features. She noticed his stare softening a bit as she undressed herself. But he said nothing, and did not dare observing her body. She was now on her bra and knickers, a plain white cotton set, her hands on her hips.

 

“Well,” Galadriel said, with a hint of pride. “Let's go for a swin, then.” 

 

She run off into the sea, and Halbrand grinned to himself, and followed her. As soon as the water rushed into her feet and calves, Galadriel slowed down by the coldness of it. It wasn’t freezing, but it wasn’t exactly the warmest, either. Halbrand, on the other hand, kept going, and even dived in. When he came back up, he was looking at her, his chest glistering with water drops, and he removed the excess water from his hair with his hands.

 

“Is the water too cold for you, princess?” He chuckled. “You did not seem to mind it when we first met.”

 

“I had little choice, then.” Galadriel replied, rolling her eyes, but he just laughed at her words. Annoying and charming, indeed.

 

After getting used to the temperature of the water, Galadriel submerged, and the feeling of the fresh water did wonders for her mood. She felt invigorated and relaxed, the waves slowly cradling her. Even her headache wasn’t bothering her anymore, gone completely.

 

And they just swan in the ocean, and laughed with each other. Galadriel hasn’t felt this free with someone in such a very long, long time. But, in truth, perhaps she never did. Her entire life there was a lot expected from her. To take up her place in the family company, and then her respectable and expected marriage, the tragedies of her life. It was as if she had never got the opportunity to truly enjoy herself, to truly be herself, until now, in the company of this mysterious man.

 

One hour must have gone by, as the sun was getting closer and closer to the sea. Halbrand was smiling at her, and she felt drawn to him, although she kept resisting his alluring pull. He was playful and cheeky, in a way that helped her feel relaxed around him. He was right, she was so uptight most of the time. But he drew out another side of her, one she didn’t know she had, or maybe kept locked inside, and did not let it show.    

 

Halbrand was dangerously close now, and, as she rose to her feet, in front of him, his eyes began to wander down her body, landing on her chest. She felt herself breathless all of the sudden, and a quick glance told her her bra was now see-throught due to the water. His lips trembled a bit as he took a hold of the view of her breasts. They were small, but her nipples were visible beneath the wet cotton, hard by the cold. Then, his stare came back up to her face, and he looked at her in such a way it seemed to pull every string of her soul, leaving it vibranting and soaring.  

 

“We should go dry out.” Galadriel spoke first, lowering her eyes, to escape his. “It’s getting late.”

 

“We can still watch the sunset,” Halbrand replied, his voice soft. “If you want to.” 

 

“Yes, alright.” Galadriel nodded, and started to swin towards the shore. 

 

Galadriel tried to soothe her fast-beating heart once she sit down to dry out in the sand, but she knew it wasn’t from the effort of swimming. Halbrand joined her, soon after, but did not say a word, as he allowed the sun to dry him.  

 

“You said you’ve done bad things in your past,” Galadriel said after a while, her eyes lowered. “What do you mean?” 

 

“What does it matter?” He replied, while his eyes grew a bit darker. “It’s in the past.” 

 

“The past takes its toil in our present.” Galadriel recalled. “And it has its way of haunting us.” 

 

“The past is best left buried and forgotten,” Halbrand replied, his voice cryptic, as if weighted down by some dark secret. “It’s the future we should care about.” 

 

“I wished I could look at things that way,” Galadriel sighed. “Sometimes, I wish I could forget and let go of the past. But I can’t.” 

 

“Can’t or won’t?”  

 

“Both, I suppose,” Galadriel shrugged, and felt tears collecting in her eyes, and blinked to prevent them from falling. “Wouldn’t it be nice if one could just... erase the past, and make everything go away?”

 

The sun was setting over the sea, painting the blue, orange, and golden, and hints of pink, as well. There were no clouds on the sky, and the colors blending nearly brought her to tears, again. It was breathtaking, and peaceful. A peace the inner corners of her soul had yearned for. And it was as if the world has suddenly slowed down, and there was nothing more on earth than her and the sunset.

 

Galadriel felt Halbrand’s arm gently brushing against hers, and the skin-to-skin contact was intimate, and caused something to stir inside of her, a primitive desire, and a longing for companionship. She has been so lonely for such a long time. She struggled not to meet his eye, at first, still looking at the sun sinking into the sea.

 

When she did look at him, Halbrand was looking back. He had a hint of a smile, and gentleness, and some other raw emotion, on his gaze. She instinctively gave his lips a glance, but went up to his eyes, the next second. This was too fast, too soon. She barely knew this man; and she could sense there was some mystery begging to be solved just beneath the surface, he was more than he appeared. She did not do this, ever. But, again, Galadriel was certain she had never felt this attracted to a person ever before. Not even to her late husband, they followed all the right protocols expected of a couple. But she was certain Halbrand wasn’t one to play by the rules.  

 

And in that moment, Galadriel knew; she wanted to kiss this man. 

Notes:

Galadriel went full “bind yourself to me” here.

Thank you for all the positive feedback! It means a lot to me to know you are enjoying it. It’s the first time I’m writing something like this, and I'm having so much fun with this story.

Chapter 5: Landfall

As they locked gazes, a hint of a smile appeared on Halbrand’s face. Their eyes already doing what their lips wanted to. He was close, too close, Galadriel considered. She found it harder to resist his magnetic pull, but stayed put, lost in his hazel eyes. She could almost taste him, even though they were apart, only their arms touching each other. It was too soon, and yet...

 

Her phone ringing took Galadriel out of her daze.

 

She was startled, as if she had suddenly woken up from a dream. Her eyes then searched for the source of the noise, and found it in the back pocket of her shorts, by her side. Once she took the phone in hand, the name on the screen surprised her, and she picked up the call.  

 

“Míriel? Hello!”

 

“How are you? I just called to check if everything’s alright.” From the other side of the line, Míriel’s voice sounded cheerful.

 

“Yes, everything’s fine.” Galadriel reassured her.

 

“You left us so quickly last night I was worried something might have happened,” Míriel said. “Did you make it back to the hotel with your friend?” 

 

“Yes,” Galadriel replied, a bit embarrassed, and noticed Halbrand was looking at her. “He’s a true lifesaver.”

 

“Good. Valandil told me you nearly fainted, so... I was worried about you.”  

 

“I’m fine, thank you for calling,” Galadriel replied. “I just had too much to drink, last night. I’m not really used to drink alcohol, so...” 

 

“We must get together sometime soon,” Míriel said, and then Galadriel overheard another voice near her. “Elendil says hi, too.”

 

“Tell him I say hi, as well,” It would seem Míriel and Elendil had taken their relationship to the next level, Galadriel considered. “And yes, anytime.” 

 

“Great! We’ll keep in touch! Bye!” 

 

“Bye...” Galadriel said, and then hung up the phone, keeping it in her lap, unable to return to Halbrand in that moment. 

 

“It was nice of her to give you a call,” Halbrand drew the first word. “I couldn’t kidnap you even if I wanted to.”

 

“Halbrand.” She looked at him with an amused look, and an attempt to chastise him for his dark humor. 

 

“When we first met, you appeared concerned about that possibility,” Halbrand grinned. “Are you... still?”

 

“No, I think you are alright.” Galadriel replied, with a light chuckle.  

 

“Good,” Halbrand nodded, with a smile. “That means I can take you to have dinner in the best restaurant in town?”

 

“Which is?” Galadriel cocked her eyebrow, looking at his playful face. 

 

“My place.” He turned to face her, and his features were gentle. “I promise I don’t have a dungeon.” Galadriel laughed, and turned her eyes to the final light of the sunset, the night approaching. “It’s not far from here. My flat is above my shop.” 

 

“I don’t know—” She started by saying, but the words died in her throat.

 

Galadriel wasn’t sure she could trust herself around him; just moments ago she was about to succumb to her attraction towards this stranger. But with no alcohol involved, she wouldn’t do the same errors of judgement as last night, that was certain. And Halbrand proved he could be trusted. Yes, he was bold and flirtatious, but he hasn’t done anything outright disrespectful, nor touched her in any way that made her uncomfortable. On the contrary, she hasn’t felt this at ease with someone she just met in a very long, long time.   

 

“Alright,” Galadriel eventually accepted his invitation. “But just dinner. I’m not staying the night.”

 

“Yes, just dinner.” Halbrand nodded.  

 

“And no alcohol!” Galadriel warned him. 

 

“I wouldn’t dare,” Halbrand laughed, as he got up and started by dressing his shirt. “You might attack me in my own home, and I would have nowhere to hide.” 

 

Galadriel just sighed and rolled at eyes at that, as she, too, put her blouse back on.

 

 

* * *

 

 

The walk to Halbrand’s flat was a short one; and they arrived within fifteen minutes-time. There were pubs nearby, but it was mostly locals drinking wine and beer. There were a few tourists in this area, but it appeared to be more of a residential space, with some businesses around. The night was already setting in, painting the sky dark blue, and tonight the air was chillier. Some of the people outside were wearing jackets, and she, too, started to feel a bit cold. Galadriel embraced herself, hoping to warm her arms, but said nothing. 

 

They entered through his shop' front door, only flagged by a store sign made of forged iron in the exterior wall. It was extremely dark inside, and Galadriel could smell the ash from the extinguished forge, metal, and oil. She could barely see anything, but could perceive the outline of a working station, a counter, and a few artifacts here and there.

 

Halbrand led the way, and took her upstairs, behind the counter. Galadriel overhead him taking a set of keys from his pocket and unlocking the door. She should feel nervous, but she wasn’t; she was about to enter his home, unsure of what she would find. But, truth be told, she felt quite at ease in this place. He got in first, and turned on the lights of his apartment.

 

Halbrand went to his left, where there was a kitchenette, with no more than a stove, an oven, a microwave, a fridge and a sink, and cabinets. It was an open floor, with no more than a dark grey couch, a dinner table and some furniture. He didn’t own a television, but had a shelf filled with books, and, more surprising, a stereo sound system. On the right there was a door, which, presumably, was the bathroom. And above her head, there was a structure made of wood, which, at first, she believed to be the ceiling, but as she walked forward, she spotted stairs; his bedroom was upstairs.

 

It was, clearly, a space meant for one. But that wasn’t what astonished her the most; she didn't presume him to live in a mansion.  

 

“What’s with the surprised face?” Halbrand asked, observing her reaction, as he opened the fridge and took two pieces of meat and placed them on the countertop.

 

“I didn’t take you for someone so...” Galadriel replied, looking around. “Organized.” 

 

“Interesting way of saying you were expecting my house to be a squalor.” He said, while seasoning the meat with a bit of salt and pepper.

 

“No!” Galadriel promptly interjected. “You just appear so... casual, and laidback, Halbrand. You didn’t strike me as someone so... tidy.” 

 

“Looks can be deceiving.” 

 

“That’s true,” Galadriel agreed. “Never judge a book by its cover, they always say.”  

 

His flat was spotless, not only in cleanliness but coordination. There was not one grain of dust in any surface, not one spot of grease, everything shiny and polished; it was almost as if no one lived there, at all. The pillows of the couch were careful arranged, a blanket methodically folded and resting on the armchair. Everything had its right place to be, it seems. The books organized alphabetically on the selves, and the same was true for the CDs.

 

“I had no idea people still listened to CDs, nowadays,” She found herself saying, as she browsed his musical collection. “Johnny Cash and Bee Gees? You have some eclectic taste in music...”   

 

“I’m quite versatile.” He said, while he took an cast-iron pan and put it on the stove, the fire already running.

 

“So I see,” Galadriel’s eyes landed on his bookshelf, curious about his interests. “You like art?” She noticed several catalogs and anthologies about artistic movements and styles, from several areas like sculpture to decorative arts and jewelry.  

 

“Being somewhat of an artist myself, I believe the answer to be quite obvious.” Halbrand chuckled.

 

“I wouldn’t know, I haven’t seen your work, yet.”

 

“Would you like to?” He asked. “You could always see me working, tomorrow.”  

 

But before Galadriel could answer to that, her phone rang, again. It was Elrond. Of course, she hasn’t talk to him ever since she arrived to Númenor and checked into the resort, he must be worried sick about her.  

 

“Do you mind if I use your balcony to take this?” Galadriel asked, phone in hand, and while Halbrand nodded in approval, he had a slight hint of suspicion on his eyes. “Thank you.” She smiled, and then answered the call. ”Elrond!”  

 

“Hello, Galadriel! We haven’t heard from you in three days—” He sounded more concerned than enraged.

 

“Yes, I know.” She replied, while she opened the window doors to get outside. “I’m sorry for not calling nor texting. I went out to dinner and a party yesterday and—” 

 

“You went out for a party?" Elrond said in disbelief. "This can’t be Galadriel speaking. Who are you and what have you done with my friend?”

 

“Very amusing, Elrond,” Galadriel rolled her eyes. “I’ve met some people, and they invited me to dinner because it was their religious holiday.”

 

“I’ve always heard great things about Númenor, but I really must go there, myself. You, making friends already, and going to parties?” 

 

“The people are very nice, and welcoming, here.” Galadriel shrugged, and she looked inside, to observe Halbrand cutting some vegetables to make a salad.  

 

“I’m very happy you are having a great time,” Elrond said, and he did sound happy, and relieved, almost. “And the resort? Is it living up to expectations? Considering the time zone, you are probably about to have lunch.”

 

“Dinner, actually,” Galadriel corrected him. “The resort is amazing. But, in fact, I’m at a friend’s place, right now. I’ve spent the day with him. We went to the beach—” 

 

“Him?”  

 

“Yes, a friend.” Galadriel replied, and almost told him about how she and Halbrand met, and withheld that information to herself. “His name is Halbrand.”

 

“Well, let’s not keep your new friend waiting, then.” Elrond chuckled across the line, but he was still taunting her. “It’s good to know you are enjoying your time there. Keep in touch. Otherwise, we’ll get worried about you.”  

 

“I will.” Galadriel promised, and she went back inside. “Love you. Goodbye.” 

 

“Love you, too. Bye!”  

 

Galadriel hang up and Halbrand already had the table set for two and was seasoning the salad with a dash of fresh lemon juice. He had a cryptic expression on his face, as Galadriel returned her phone to her pocket.  

 

“You told me you were single.” He said, as he placed the bowl on the table, and his voiced sounded more wounded, than upset. 

 

“I am,” Galadriel promptly said, confused about his remark, And then, it hit her. “What? Elrond? No, no!” She laughed at the preposterous idea. “He’s one of my oldest friends. He’s like a brother to me.” S he took a sit at the table, as Halbrand went to fetch the cast-iron pan. “He was worried about not hearing from me since I arrived. Probably, thought I had drown or...”

 

“I’m afraid the only non-alcoholic drink I have is tap water,” Halbrand said, as he took a beer out of the fridge. “But it’s perfectly safe here, in Númenor.” 

 

“Alright, sure.” Galadriel shrugged.  

 

Halbrand returned to the table with the beverages and a loaf of bread, and sit down, by her side. He made steak with butter, rosemary and garlic, and it did smell good. Galadriel took one piece, and helped herself from the green salad. Once she cut into the meat, it was a perfect medium-well, precisely the way she liked it. She ate a small piece, and the buttery earthy flavor danced in her tongue.  

 

“This is delicious!” She complimented him, when she finished chewing.

 

“Thank you,” Halbrand appreciated it, with a hint of a smile. “I always strive for perfection in all areas of my life.” 

 

They ate in silence for a while, and Galadriel noticed the change in his demeanor. Did he fear she and Elrond could be anything else than friends? She should not worry about that, but she did. 

 

“Elrond is one of the reasons I’m here, actually,” Galadriel said, almost in an impulse. “He and my boss booked me these vacations because they thought I was overworking myself to death. But, truth be told, I don’t know if they sent me away because they were truly concerned about my well-being, or they were just... fed up with me.” She  exhaled, and it was as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. “I don’t know why I’m telling you these things.”

 

Halbrand' eyes on her softened, and she saw almost a hint of sadness there. Then, there was a hint of a smile of his lips. “You can tell me anything you want, Galadriel.” He took a sip of his beer. “I know what is like to be in... bad terms... with one’s closest friends. It's the reason why I came here, too.”  

 

“What happened?”

 

“There were some... complications in my... previous job,” He said, while aligning his fork and knife in a perfect line on his plate. “I had to get away, and look for a fresh start.” 

 

“You seemed to have found it.” Galadriel said, looking around his apartment. "You have a nice place, here."

 

“Yes,” Halbrand nodded. “But it can get lonely, sometimes.” 

 

“Lonely? You?” Galadriel cocked her eyebrow. “I thought you were a proper womanizer.” 

 

“I told you, looks can be deceiving.” Halbrand recalled. “Is that your opinion of me? You think I bring women here, often? Is that why you came here, yourself?” 

 

“I’ve came here to have dinner with a friend,” Galadriel said, her cheeks slightly burning. “Nothing more.” 

 

“I have not been with a woman in a long time,” He revealed, taking another sip from his beer. “I have had other concerns on my mind. And I’m not interested in casual, anymore. It gets tiresome, after a while.”  

 

“I have not been with a man in a very long time, either. I don't date, I—”

 

“You made that very clear, last night.” Halbrand said with a grin, and then he got up and collected the plates.

 

Galadriel was left on the table, blushing, and trying to get deep breaths, and smooth the storm inside of her. She couldn’t afford to play this game with him, she was already taking a big gamble by having accepted to come here, in the first place. He was not making her uncomfortable. He was making her wanting him even more, and her not being able to resist his charms was what troubled her. She has always been expert in deflecting unwanted male attention. But the problem was; Halbrand’ attentions weren’t unwanted, at all.

 

“Do you need help... cleaning up?” Galadriel eventually asked, hoping to change the subject. 

 

“It’s fine,” Halbrand declined, while he already started doing the dishes. “I got it.” 

 

Galadriel checked her phone to see the time. It was already ten pm. It was getting late, but Halbrand finished cleaning up and swept the floor quickly.

 

She got up, and was ready to leave, and return to the resort. Halbrand escorted her downstairs, and offered to go check if there were still horse services to get her up the cliffs. Unfortunately, the men responsible were already gathering at the pubs, and told them it was absurd to ask for such a service at this time of night, the horses were back at the stables, and probably sleeping.

 

“I’m a bit tired, but I’ll walk.” Galadriel sighed and embraced herself. It was a windy night, and the breeze from the ocean was cold.

 

“I’ll walk you back to the hotel.” Halbrand offered.  

 

“No, I can’t ask that of you,” Galadriel said. “And you have work, tomorrow. You probably have to wake-up early, and I already took too much of your time.” 

 

“You did no such thing,” Halbrand smiled down at her. “And it’s no problem. Unless, you want to stay here.”

 

“Stay?” Galadriel asked, slightly confused. “Sleep here? With you?” 

 

“I’ve slept in your terrace, last night,” Halbrand shrugged. “You can sleep at my place, and our scales are balanced.” 

 

“You only have one bed.”  

 

Now, she was just playing with fire.

 

“And a couch.” Halbrand said. “Not as luxurious as your hotel, but... It’s just for one night."

 

“I need to take a shower, and change my clothes.” 

 

“I have a bathroom.” He recalled. “And a washing machine. You can wash and dry your clothes, and wear a t-shirt of mine for the night. What say you? 

Notes:

Of course I had to include Númenóreans cockblocking Sauronbrad.

Sauron being OCD about cleanliness and organization = Tolkien canon

Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoyed it.

Chapter 6: I’ve Felt It Too

Galadriel agreed to spend the night.

 

They returned upstairs and Halbrand gave her a clean towel and a t-shirt, directing her to the bathroom. He would sleep on the couch tonight, he insisted against Galadriel’s interjections, he wouldn’t have her sleeping anywhere else other than a comfortable bed. He went upstairs to get some of his things, and she threw her clothes in the washer, and run for a bath. Her skin felt dry and a bit sticky from the salt and sweat.

 

His bathroom was as immaculate as the rest of his apartment, and Galadriel consider that living with this man must be both a blessing and a curse. She took a quick shower, and got dressed. The t-shirt he borrowed her landed just below her thighs, and thankfully, because her underwear was in the washing machine. She felt self-conscious of going around his flat wearing nothing more than a piece of his clothing. It was too intimate, and bold. But she would go straight upstairs to get some sleep.

 

She looked at the mirrored cabinet above the sink, and was almost tempted to open it and see if there was a spare, unused brush inside, by any chance. But it wouldn’t be very polite of her to meddle in his affairs, wouldn’t it? Galadriel combed her hair with her fingers, and, while it wasn’t ideal, it would do for tonight. She took a bit of his toothpaste and used her fingers to brush her teeth.

 

But the cabinet was right in front of her eyes, and taken by curiosity, Galadriel opened it. She shouldn’t be doing this, at all, and yet... Inside the cabinet, the same neat organization. Halbrand didn’t own much; there were all the basic hygiene items men usually wear; an electric shaver, an aftershave cologne, deodorant. There was a first-aid kit for emergencies, some burn cream, and standard medication like painkillers. And there were sleeping pills, too. Another thing they had in common, it seems.

 

Then, she saw a package of condoms. It was closed, never used; he was either telling the truth about not having dates over, or he had plenty and had to restock often. Either way, at least he used protection. And she felt her throat drying out when she read “extra-large” on the cardboard. The ones back at her hotel room were standard size. She quickly closed the cabinet, pretending she hasn’t seen what was inside.  

 

Galadriel collected herself before leaving the bathroom, trying not to think about how she just found out he’s big... everywhere. He’s quite tall, already, and... Galadriel tried to keep these thoughts out of her head. Once she closed the bathroom door, she saw Halbrand arranging the pillows on the couch, setting it up for sleeping. The washing machine had stopped in the meantime, and Halbrand looked at it, ready to intervene.  

 

“I got it!” Galadriel promptly said, walking towards the washer at a fast pace.

 

She would prefer him not to handle her underwear, this whole situation was already embarrassing as it was. She was quick on her feet, and took her clothes out of the washing machine and into the dryer. She would be able to wear them, come morning. 

 

“Fuck—” 

 

Galadriel overheard him groaning behind her back, and when she turned around, Halbrand’s eyes were on her legs, but swiftly darted back to her face, as if he was caught doing something he shouldn’t. Suddenly, it hit her, and she felt her cheeks burning. She had bend over, and he saw more than she mean him to. She should have knelt, but she didn’t. And he just saw...

 

“I’m going to take a shower, too.” Halbrand licked his lips, and looked almost disoriented. Galadriel noticed he had a pillow in hand, and he turned his back on her to put it back into the couch, and didn’t face her, again, walking into the bathroom in a fast pace. 

 

“I—” Galadriel cleared her throat. “I’m going to sleep, now,” She managed to say, her face red. “Good night.” 

 

“Good night!” She overheard him across the bathroom’ door, his voice oddly restrained, and, then, water running.  

 

Galadriel went upstairs, and while she preferred to so do unaccompanied, there was still something strange about stepping into his bedroom without him there, as if she was breeching his privacy. As expected, there was only one bed, but it was a sizeable one, with a dark blanket. He didn’t own much furniture, only one nightstand and a double door closet. There was no television up in here, either. It seems he was even a lesser fan of technology as she was, or he was shutting himself out of the world, entirely.

 

She sunk into the bed, while Halbrand was still showering downstairs.  

 

 

 * * *

 

 

Galadriel couldn’t sleep; she spent the night turning on the bed, and drifting in and out of consciousness. She could smell him on the cotton sheets, and overheard his breath downstairs. There were no doors or walls separating them, here. The previous night, she had been drunk, and had no idea he was sleeping just outside her window, in her terrace. But here it was different; she was very much aware of his presence, and she could, in fact, hear it. And it was as if he was sleeping next to her. She had seen his sleeping pills in the bathroom cabinet, but didn’t dare asking him for one. He could take it the wrong way, thinking she was prying, or being meddlesome.

 

But much has changed since then. Curious how a couple of hours can alter everything. She got to know Halbrand, and to share his company more intimately. She had seen his interests, and what drives him, his living space. They say a home can tell you a lot about a person. And this house told her he was an overachiever, a perfectionist, artistic, but also very lonely. He had told her that, himself. Possibly very few people have been in here, if any, at all. She noticed how he enjoyed keeping everything in what he believed to be the right place, his apartment like a living organism he kept running exactly like he wanted. She wondered if this obsession with order extended to other areas of his life.

 

She was curious about him, in ways she hasn’t been for another person in a very long time. And it wasn’t merely curiosity or a physical pull, it was emotional, as well. She was entering his labyrinth and didn’t want to come out. He made her feel understood, and seen, in ways she had never experienced. They barely needed to talk about it, and, in fact, him not bombarding her with questions was a relief. But there was understanding, all the same. She could see it in his eyes, in the way he looked at her. He had very intense eyes. Yes, they were hazel, and beautiful, but it was more than that. Galadriel couldn’t exactly describe it, but he had one of those eyes that seemed to look directly into one’s soul, and discover every secret there.

 

She turned on the bed, again, and landed on her back. The t-shirt slid above her hips, and her most intimate hairs were in contact with his sheets, the cotton resting on the outline of her mount. It made her feel warm, all of the sudden. She could hear his breath, and it was calm and steady; he was asleep. But she was wrapped in him, in the scent of him; it was almost as if he was in top of her. That thought alone provoked a warm feeling in between her legs, and she felt her heartbeat down there. Galadriel turned to the side, again, pressing her thighs together, and forcing her eyelids shut, in the hope these feelings would go away. 

 

 

* * *

 

 

When she woke up in the morning it was as if she hasn’t slept, at all. Halbrand was already up, and she overheard him opening cabinets. He was keeping quiet, not to disturb her, most likely.  But her sleep was so light, she returned to consciousness, at the tiniest disturbance.  

 

Galadriel checked the time on her phone. Eight am. She wasn’t aware of Halbrand's shop opening hours, but he was getting ready for the day, probably cooking breakfast, too . Her clothes were dry, by now, and she could change to something more... appropriate. She decided to get up of his bed, and went downstairs.  

 

As expected, he was preparing some food on the stove. He was already dressed, too. And Galadriel was thankfull for that.

 

“Good morning,” He greeted her, while he was cracking some eggs into a bowl. “Did you have a good night sleep?” 

 

“Good morning,” Galadriel replied, rubbing her eyelids; and she was certain she looked terrible. “Not particularly, no.” 

 

“No?” Halbrand asked, almost disappointed. “Isn’t my bed to your liking?” 

 

That question stroked a nerve on Galadriel, and she felt hot, again. How did this man had the power to make her railed up with mere words?

 

“Your bed is fine,” She eventually answered. “It’s me who, usually, has trouble sleeping.” 

 

“I have sleeping pills on my bathroom cabinet.” He said, and Galadriel tried to act surprised. “You could have asked me for one.”

 

“You suffer from insomnia, too?”  

 

“Nightmares. They are almost chronic, by now,” He replied, as if it was of no consequence, and turned on his coffee machine. “I’m used to them. Pills do the trick just fine.” 

 

“Yes,” Galadriel sighed, coming closer to him. “I know how that feels.”  

 

Halbrand turned to face her with a smile on his lips. “Do you like omelettes?” Galadriel shrugged and nodded. “Good. I have coffee, and some oranges if you want.”  

 

“I would like a cup of coffee, yes.” Galadriel said, and he pointed to his capsule coffee maker, and took one glass cup from the cabinet in front of him, placing it in the counter top.  

 

After finishing her coffee, Galadriel went to dress herself in the bathroom. Once she returned, he had the omelettes ready.  

 

They went downstairs one hour later, as Halbrand was about to open his shop. In broad daylight, she could see it, even though it was still a dark place. He had what could be described as a proper forge, with a chimney. One would expect such a place to be messy, but it wasn’t what Galadriel found; here, the same tidiness as upstairs, and the same lack of technology. He still had a receipt book instead of a computer. 

 

“You never gave me your phone number.” Galadriel recalled.

 

“I don’t own a phone.” He replied, as he went to open the front door. “I’m in... what they call it? A digital detox. And, either way, everyone here knows where to find me.” 

 

“What about your family?” Galadriel asked, as she looked around the showcases, displaying his works. “Don’t they get worried about you?”

 

“You know, post offices still exist in this world.” Halbrand replied, but his voice was restrained. 

 

“Is that your deal, too?” Galadriel’s eyes lingered on a set of two rings. “You write letters?” 

 

“I could,” Halbrand returned to his counter, and searched the drawers for a notebook. “But my family is long gone.”  

 

“You make jewelry, as well?” Galadriel eventually asked, as her eyes were still fixed on the rings. They were delicate work, and so perfect one could hardly say they were handmade in this tiny shop, by this man. He had skill that could rival, if not surpass, that of her cousin, Celebrimbor.

 

“I work by commission,” He answered, his eyes on his notebook. “I do whatever the client wants me to do. But, right now, I’m working on something else.” 

 

“I must say, I’m baffled," Galadriel said, her eyes wandering the shop. “What manner of man would waste his talent in this place, when he could be successful elsewhere?”

 

“Are you offering me a job, princess?" Halbrand grinned, and at first Galadriel didn’t understand what he meant, and then. “You told me you own a jewelry brand.” He was now organizing his tools for the day. “I’m afraid to disappoint you, but I’m quite content with my life here. I have no intention of leaving Númenor.”

 

“Why?” Galadriel frowned. “What keeps you.... stuck in here?”

 

“Inner peace,” He promptly replied, as he ignited the forge. “I wanted a chance for a fresh start, and I got it.” 

 

“Maybe, I was wrong about you,” Galadriel said, and he froze in place. “Perhaps, you are, indeed, one of those hippies that leave everything behind to live near nature.” 

 

Halbrand only chuckled at that, as he began stirring the coal.  

 

 

* * *

 

 

Galadriel spent the day observing him work, as he proposed the day before.

 

The new commission he was working on wasn’t exactly thrilling, nor groundbreaking work. A client ordered a set of knifes, of different sizes and shapes, and that was his schedule until the end of the month. It wasn’t exciting, but he worked diligently, all the same. He was methodic, and, as Galadriel had rightly supposed, a perfectionist, obsessed with getting the tiniest of details correct.      

 

Just by observing him, it seemed like Halbrand was spending too much time in one task, alone, but Galadriel quickly realized he had the entire process under control and managed his time with expertise. He knew when it was time to stop for lunch. And she ended up staying there the whole day with him. She was fascinated by the process of forging. She did own a jewelry brand, she saw Celebrimbor working several times, but Halbrand’s methods were more traditional, and almost ancient, in a way. He was capable of creating great beauty, or horror, she came to see. His works on display were almost a paradox of aesthetics.

 

A few tourists came in during the day; many just took one look around, others asked questions. He was as charming and polite, as ever. A great contrast to his more reserved, and even cautious, nature. Galadriel couldn’t exactly figure it out all there was to know about him, something else, something darker, was always lurking beneath the surface. Something he didn’t allow others access to. Galadriel only knew she found it irresistible. He was so different from everyone’ else she has ever met in her entire life.

 

Halbrand closed the shop around six pm. Covered in sweat, and ash from the forge, he removed his gloves and his leather apron, alongside with his protective gear, and carefully put it back in its place. He took a deep breath, but didn’t appear tired, just hot. In general, because Galadriel never found him more attractive than in this moment. The shine from his sweat outlined the muscles of his arms, and he had his t-shirt glued onto his chest and back.

 

“I know," Halbrand smiled at her when he noticed her staring. "I really need to take a shower."

 

Galadriel felt her throat drying up, but said nothing. He got the shop cleaned quickly; this was a task he was accustomed to. Once he finished, Halbrand invited her for dinner, once more.

 

“I should return to the hotel,” Galadriel found herself saying, fearing what could happen if she would stay one more night. “I can still rent a horse at this time, or I can walk.” 

 

“You can stay here, again, if you like.” 

 

“It’s a great imposition,” Galadriel said, lowering her eyes. “You already paid for three of my meals.”

 

“It’s no trouble, at all,” Halbrand said, and he approached her. “I like to have you around, Galadriel.”  

 

“I enjoy being with you, as well, but—” 

 

He was dangerously close now, breeching her personal space, and as she took one step back, she hit the counter. He was looking down at her with gentleness, and hunger, too, and there was no escaping him, now. 

 

“What are you so afraid of?” He asked, almost a whisper. “Am I that terrifying? Have I done anything to upset you?” 

 

“No!” She promptly replied, shaking her head. The only terrifying thing was how easy he awoke these feelings in her. “It’s just — ”

 

Galadriel stopped breathing, once she felt his fingers caressing her cheek. It was a soft touch, almost immaterial, but it seemed to burn her like the fire of his forge. His hand went down to her chin, compelling her to look up at his face, gently.  

 

“At your side, I felt...” Halbrand said, his forehead touching hers. “If I could just hold on to that feeling, keep it with me always, bind it to very being, then I—”

 

“I’ve felt it, too.” Galadriel exhaled, her face tortured. 

 

Before she could say more, Halbrand brought her chin higher and went forward to claim her lips with his. It started as a quiet kiss, no more than a gentle peck. But soon it grew hungrier, as he opened his mouth to consume hers, and asked permission for his tongue to taste her. She accepted it.

 

He tasted of ash, and salt, and Galadriel felt herself melting into him, consumed by his fire. Her hands grabbed the fabric of his t-shirt, at the waist, pulling him closer, and closer, as if they could fuse into one being. She might have moaned softly against his mouth. It had been so long since she last kissed someone, but never like this. Never like this.  

 

Once he broke the kiss, her head was spinning. His hands where still on her face, gently stroking the side of her neck, her jawbone; and she was embracing him. A rushed of thoughts came flooding her mind, preventing her from allowing this to go any further.

 

“Halbrand—” She whispered, her eyes closed, and she swallowed dry. “This is... too quick. We’ve known each other for less than a week.” 

 

“And?” His nose gently caressed the bridge of hers, their foreheads touching. “I feel as if I’ve known you for a lifetime.” 

 

He went for a second kiss, but Galadriel stopped him, her hands on his chest, keeping him in place. It wasn’t an aggressive gesture, but it was commanding.

 

“I can’t do this,” Galadriel said, taking a step back. “I’m only here, temporarily. There’s no scenario this will end in anything other than heartbreak, for both of us.” 

 

“You know, Buddhists have a concept called impermanence. The Japanese celebrate it in their tradition of Hanami. It’s more than viewing blossoming cherry trees,” Halbrand said, returning to her, caressing her face, while Galadriel tried to get away. “It’s about appreciating fleeting beauty, because nothing lasts forever.”

 

“I didn’t take you for a spiritual person.” Galadriel eventually said, trying to escape his eyes. 

 

“I have been searching for my peace for longer than you know,” His eyes were soft. “Perhaps.... some peace would do you good, as well.”

 

That stirred something inside of her. Galadriel had tried to keep it out of her head these past few days, and succeeded. She had promised herself this was a time for rest, to regain her strength to carry on with her mission once she returned to Lindon. But now, it was all coming back again, like a violent wave crashing at the rocks on the beach.

 

“My peace will come in ways you don’t understand. I’ve lost people I love, in a horrible way, and—” She eventually said, breaking free from his touch. “I’m here to rest, and...” The words died on her throat. “I told you of my wish to forget the past, but I can’t. I cannot.” 

 

But all she found in Halbrand’ eyes was... understanding. She could see he suffered, and knew he saw the same in her. This was something Galadriel came to deeply appreciate in him, in the couple of days they spent together; he didn’t ask too many questions, he didn’t pry, but he knew all the same. There was a silent recognition between them.

 

“Perhaps, we could... escape the past, together.” Halbrand said, and his eyes and voice were gentle, like a lover’s whisper.

 

“I have to return to the resort,” Galadriel shook her head. “I’ve been away for far too long.”

 

She couldn’t bring herself to look at him one last time, before leaving his shop at a quick pace.  

Notes:

Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoyed it.

Chapter 7: The Perilous Path [NSFW]

Galadriel ran as fast as she could. She wasn’t escaping Halbrand; she was escaping herself. The words Bronwyn spoke to her once she arrived at Númenor echoing through her mind. This was her way of coping with unpleasant truths. To run away, to keep her mind occupied in a different direction, keep it concealed inside of her chest until it eventually exploded, and consumed her. She felt too much, and too deeply, but she never let it show, always trapped and boiling beneath the surface, like a wild beast in a cage, desperately fighting to escape.

 

And she kept running, in the hope these feelings would go away, carried by the ocean breeze. Galadriel managed to rent a horse, and travelled up the cliffs, back to the resort. She entered the hotel and was sprinting towards her room, when a male voice called out to her.

 

“Miss!” 

 

“Yes?” Galadriel turned and saw the worker in the reception staring back at her. 

 

“Good afternoon. Are you...” The man looked at the screen of his computer, searching for something. “Mrs. Galadriel Doriath? From room 501?” 

 

“Yes,” Galadriel nodded, and approached the reception, and trying to conceal the disturbance that surname brought her. “It’s me.” 

 

“Apologizes for disturbing, but you haven’t left any indication for housekeeping,” The receptionist informed her. “Our cleaning staff needs to be informed when you wish to have your room clean, if at all.” 

 

“Oh,” Galadriel sighed, a bit relieved, as well. She was starting to worry if this was about the night Halbrand spent there. “I forgot. My room hasn’t been cleaned, yet?” 

 

“No, Mrs.” The worker said, a bit scared, too. He was probably terrified she could file a complaint. “Most guests want their room clean, daily. I apologize if that’s not your intention.”

 

“No, it’s me who should be apologizing, It slip my mind,” Galadriel corrected him. "Yes, I do want the room cleaned, daily.” The worker wrote something on his computer, and then nodded in agreement. “Is that all?”

 

“Yes, Mrs. Doriath,” He smiled. “If you need anything else, our reception is open twenty-four hours. We hope you continue to enjoy your stay.” 

 

Galadriel forced herself to smile, and went back to her room, locking the door behind her. She took a deep exhale, and decided to go take a shower, to cool down. Her room was exactly as she left it; the bed unmade, the window opened, her silver sandals on the floor, and her clothes were not dispatched for laundry service. The unopened complimentary wine bottle was still on the dresser, the ice on the bucket has fully melted. She has only been away from this room for two days and one night, but it felt like weeks.

 

In the nightstand there it was... the cursed condom box. Galadriel took it into her hands. Six condoms, it promised. She peeped inside, and there they were, all six of them. She felt the urge of throwing them into the garbage bin, but instead stored them into her one of her travelling bags. She wouldn’t have that box laying around in her room for the cleaning staff to see.  

 

Galadriel undressed and threw the clothes to be washed, as well. Her white blouse was soiled with ash from Halbrand’s forge, and appeared almost greyish in color. These days with him have been... It was if time had slowed down, and the world appeared brighter, an ocean of color, and now everything else seemed grey in comparison. She looked at herself in the mirror, and noticed the stains of Halbrand's hands on her jaw and cheek, from when he kissed her; a perfect print of ash in her fair skin, as if he had branded her with hot iron.

 

She didn’t want to think about it. She couldn’t. She wanted to shut herself from the feelings he awoke in her. Halbrand was a distraction, in her masterplan. She came here to rest, and to gather her strength. She had to continue her hunt for Sauron. She needed to avenge her brother and husband. That was her goal, and sole purpose in life. She needed to remember that.  

 

Galadriel went to take a shower to forget. And to keep running, she closed the windows and the shutters, and went to bed. She took two sleeping pills, and fell asleep.  

 

 

* * *

 

 

Galadriel woke up around 8 pm., and went to have some breakfast. She found herself, actually, missing having Halbrand around, she had grown used to his presence, but shook that thought. While she was drinking her coffee, she wondered about her plans for this new day. But she didn’t want to leave the resort, nor wander the streets where she could run into familiar faces. She decided to stay here. She took one book from the selves near the bar, and made the decision to spend the day at the pool, getting some sun.  

 

One hour later, she was lying down in a longue chair by the pool, and under a patio umbrella. She observed the sea for a moment, and it was mesmerizing. It was if the sky touched the sea here. Once she started to read the book, Galadriel realized her mistake. It was one of those sloppy love stories she despised; where the male love interest always corners the female love interest against a wall to give her a dramatic kiss. The sort of thing that doesn’t happen in real life. Then, the memory of Halbrand corning her against the counter of his shop came into her mind, but she did not allow it to take root. The book was, definitely, a terrible idea. 

 

She took her phone in hand, and considered calling Elrond. But telling him what, exactly? That she kissed the man she claimed to be nothing more than a friend, when they were having an intimate dinner the night before? Just the two of them? No, that was even a more foolish idea than the book she borrowed without seeing what it was about. Instead, she texted Elrond saying everything was alright, and he and the others need not to worry about her. She even sent a photo of the pool for good measure.  

 

After lunch, Galadriel decided to book another massage with Bronwyn. It would probably hurt less than the first one, but, at the very least, she would wake up feeling more relaxed in the next morning. The therapist had an opening and agreed to see her, right away. Galadriel knew the drift; remove her bathrobe, and lie down on the massage table, already covered with a white sheet.  

 

“It’s very good to see you again, Mrs. Galadriel.” Bronwyn greeted her. “How are you enjoying your stay?”

 

“Very much, thank you,” Galadriel nodded, and she lied down on her stomach.  

 

“I was very glad to see you making friends and going to the Erulaitalë,” She could overhear the smile on the therapist’ voice. “Truly. It was good for your well-being, I imagine.” 

 

“Yes, it was,” Galadriel nodded and she smelled the familiar sweet and musky scent from the massage oil. “I had a great time.” 

 

“Good.” Bronwyn nodded, and started by drawing circles on her shoulders. “Your muscle tension in this area is far better, I can see the vacations are doing wonders for you,” Then her hands moved lower on her back, feeling it in its entirety. “Hmm, there’s still tension on your neck, and entire back.”  

 

“Meaning?” Galadriel asked, her voice restrained, as the therapist started to focus on her neck.

 

“There’s much fear, grief, insecurity and shame, in you, still.” She replied. “Fear and insecurity, mostly. You are afraid of being vulnerable. It’s only natural after everything that happened in your life. Some wounds take time to heal.” 

 

“They will heal once I caught the responsible for the deaths of my brother and husband.”

 

“Poisoning yourself with dreams of revenge might not be the best approach to healing.” Bronwyn said, but there was no judgement on her voice. “Instead of allowing yourself to heal, you are just keeping these wounds alive.”

 

“I should forget, then?” Galadriel asked, and she sounded more bitter than she meant to. “Just... give up?”

 

“Are you any closer to finding this man?”

 

“No.” Galadriel sighed in defeat. 

 

“There’s your answer.” Bronwyn was now applying pressure on her lower back, drawing invisible lines on her skin. “Perhaps, you are missing opportunities at happiness because of this obsession in hunting down a man no one has seen in... ten years? He might not even be alive, by now.”

 

“No,” Galadriel shook her head. “He’s out there. I know it.” 

 

“You are growing tense, again,” Bronwyn warned her, and she was now massaging the back of her legs. “I can feel it on your muscles." Her hands travelled up, moving in circles. “Your knee cartilage is still dry, but less than the last time you were here,” Bronwyn said, almost thinking to herself. “Still no sex, but you experienced sexual arousal recently.” Galadriel nearly chocked on her own breath. “That’s wonderful! Who’s the lucky person?”

 

“No one.” Galadriel promptly said, but was only meant with a knowledgeable look from the therapist. She should know better than to attempt to lie to someone with this line of work. “Alright. I met this man, by chance. But he’s just a friend!”  

 

“A friend?” Bronwyn repeated, and it was clear she didn’t believe a word she was saying. “I can’t say it’s common to feel sexual arousal for friends, but it’s not unheard of, either. Most relationships start with friendship, after all. However, having these feelings for someone you just met—” 

 

“Halbrand is a friend.” Galadriel insisted.

 

“Alright,” Bronwyn eventually said. “My only advise is not to allow your fear to consume you, and prevent you from chasing happiness. Otherwise, you might as well waste your entire life running.”

 

Galadriel left the spa even more conflicted than when she entered it. The sunset was hours away, and she couldn’t stop thinking about Halbrand, nor the kiss he gave her. He must be closing his shop by now. These intrusive thoughts didn’t seem to go away, and only got worse after her appointment with Bronwyn. What if the therapist was correct? What if Galadriel was shutting herself out of fear? What if, while she was occupied chasing a ghost, she was only boycotting her own healing?  

 

Perhaps, Halbrand wasn’t a distraction, but a key piece on her plan to hunt down Sauron. A part of her wondered if he could give her the peace she sought, if not only temporarily. Perchance, they could escape their pasts together, as he proposed.

 

Sometimes the perilous path is the only path. On an impulse she hoped not to regret, Galadriel put on a dark green dress, her silver sandals and decided to go to him. 

 

 

* * *

 

 

Once she made it to Halbrand' shop, every light was turned off. She looked up, to try and see if he was at home, if she could spot any lights in the upper floor, or any indication she didn’t made all this way for nothing. He was home, and she found herself smiling in relief. Next, she looked around, searching for a doorbell. She found it, and press it for a while.

 

She overheard windows opening upstairs and took a few steps back for Halbrand to be able to see her on the street. He looked down, but said nothing. Yet, he appeared slightly surprised to see her there. He made his way downstairs quickly enough and allowed her entrance into the shop. 

 

“What are you doing here, Galadriel?” Halbrand asked her, as he led the way into his apartment after locking the front door. “After yesterday, I thought you had no interest in coming here, ever again.” 

 

Galadriel closed his apartment’s door behind her back and just stood there. With her skin against the wooden surface, her eyes low, almost as if she was scared to face him, but she had come all this way, wasn’t she?

 

“For these past ten years,” Galadriel said. “I’ve known nothing other than grief, and pain... I had friends at my side, yes, but... My brother was savagely murdered by a cult. Finding the one responsible for it consumed by every thought, awakening or asleep.” She could feel Halbrand’s eyes fixed on her, even though she still refused to meet his gaze. “I was sent here, to Númenor, because my friends feared this obsession would be the end of me.” She swallowed her tears, and exhaled deeply. “Until I met you. And you made me laugh, again. And I felt like... I could truly be myself at your side, but... I’m afraid. I’m scared of these feelings.”  

 

“I’m scared, too.” Halbrand confessed, and she gathered the courage to face him. “What I told you, yesterday, were no empty words. I meant them.” He took one of step forward in her direction. “I’m not one for reckless actions.”

 

“Aren’t you?” Galadriel cocked her eyebrow, almost shyly. 

 

“No,” Halbrand shook his head, and his voice as serious, as he was getting closer and closer. “I take pride on my self-restrain.” His breath was dangerously close, again. “And you have no idea how hard I had to restrain myself, the night before last.” 

 

“You surely didn’t hold anything back, yesterday.” Galadriel recalled the kiss he gave her. 

 

“Oh, yes, I did,” He chuckled, and their eyes met. “When you bend over my washer, and I saw...” He sounded like a man possessed, but he licked his lips to prevent himself from saying it. “And then, the idea of you in my bed, wearing nothing more than that t-shirt... I’m grateful for those sleeping pills. I don’t think I would have been able to get any sleep without them.”

 

“I didn’t get any sleep, myself.” Galadriel revealed, her lower lip trembling, as her breath was getting heavier by the minute. 

 

“Nightmares?” He asked, but his voice sounded teasing. “Or some other kind of dreams?” 

 

“Other kind.” Galadriel felt so inexperienced next to his tall frame. She didn't know how to do this, this seduction game he played; she was always so assured, and commanding in every other area of her life. But this, here. This was her weak point. She has only been with one man in her entire life, she never dated anyone else. And even then, she wouldn’t call her marriage passionate, in the slightest.

 

“How long has it been, exactly?” 

 

“Ten years.” She confessed, her cheeks blushing, and bit her lower lip in embarrassment. 

 

“You haven’t had sex in over a decade?” Halbrand asked, his face dropping in disbelief, and Galadriel just shrugged, as if it wasn’t a big deal. Then, a mischievous smile appeared on his lips. “I’m going to ruin you for anyone else, princess.” 

 

Before she could digest what that meant, Halbrand’s mouth was already consuming hers, and all she could do was accept his passion. And she found herself reciprocating. He lifted her up by the tights, raising her above his level, her back against the door, her legs intertwined behind his back. This was that sort of scene she would only see in movies or books like the one she tried to read earlier, never to believe it would be happening to her, in real life.  

 

He kissed with such fervor, Galadriel found it difficult to breath; she couldn't tell where his lips began, and where hers ended. It was a hot, wet, all-consuming kiss he gave her, this time. He removed his black t-shirt, dropping it on the floor, unceremoniously. It seemed his obsession with control and order was thrown out of the window, when lovemaking was concerned. Galadriel hold on to his broad shoulders for leverage, as his lips started to kiss down her neck, his coarse beard gently scratching at her delicate skin.

 

Her breath was caught on her throat once she felt him against her most intimate area. He was hard, already. She could feel his erection pulsing against her, separated only by a few layers of fabric. Her mouth dried out at the feeling of him; she already knew him to be big, but to actually feel it, was another matter entirely. Her hips rolled to meet his, but the friction wasn’t enough in this position.

 

“Take me to your bed.” Galadriel found herself saying, shamelessly, and she wasn’t even aware when she got so bold, or maybe it was him.

 

Halbrand grinned at that. “I have to go to the bathroom to get something for us, first,” His hand caressing her cheek, down to her chin, while her neck was warm from the glistering trails his mouth left there. “Can you wait one minute for me?” 

 

“Yes.” Galadriel knew exactly what he meant, and what he was retrieving, but she couldn’t tell him that. He slowly returned her feet to the ground, and went to the bathroom like thunderbolt. Halbrand brought the entire package, put it into his back pocket, and lifted her up into his arms, carrying her up the stairs as if she was a virgin bride on her wedding night. She held his neck but said nothing of it, her heart racing in anticipation.

 

He laid her down on the bed, carefully, her back against the mattress, and her legs spread open for him. He started unbuckling his belt, while placing the package of condoms on the nightstand. Galadriel’s eyes followed his every movement, and he joined her once he removed his jeans, and she took her dress off. She was about to remove her bra, when he interjected.

 

"Leave the best part for me,” Halbrand groaned against her mouth, his voice heavy. “I want to take you off those panties, myself.” 

 

He was on top of her, and Galadriel had her hands on his arms, feeling his strong muscles beneath her fingertips. His mouth went from her lips, down to her neck, chest. His able hands removed her bra in mere seconds, and he stared at the view for a moment. But Galadriel knew he already saw them, when they were at the beach. It was one of the downsides of wearing white and getting wet. His lips on her skin were teasing, as if he was measuring her up, testing her limits, or what she could possibly enjoy. Every time she breathed heavier, he knew to be on the right track.  

 

Halbrand took one of her nipples into his lips, his tongue lazily swirling around it, sensing it hardening inside of his mouth. That drew a moan out of Galadriel, and he grinned to himself, repeating the gesture in her other breast. Soon, he was trailing his way down her body, into her stomach, and carving a place for himself, between her legs, his strong hands on her thighs. His fingers were calloused from his hard work, but that feeling, against the softness and sensitivity of her skin, only made Galadriel feel warmer, a shiver curling down her spine. It was the first time she was experiencing any person this close to her most intimate lips. She had seen it in films, but this wasn’t something her late husband would ever do to her.

 

Halbrand surely enjoyed taking his time, just kissing the inside of her thighs, with abandon. And even the sounds he made were driving Galadriel to the brick of insanity. She wanted him so badly. One of his hands teased her, caressing the fabric of her underwear, and she could feel it getting wet with the slick of her arousal. She rolled her hips to match the movement of his palm, seeking friction, any kind of relief to the hunger she was experiencing.

 

“Wanting, are we?” Halbrand taunted her, and his voice sounded predatory, almost. In a swift movement, he removed her panties and threw them onto the floor.  

 

Before Galadriel could look down, he buried his face in-between her legs, his mouth covering her entirely, and his tongue dived right in, hitting the intended target. She gasped at the sudden intrusion, her hips jerking a bit, and he held her in place with his shoulders and hands. Soon enough, she’s chocking on her cries, and verbalizing disconnected, nonsensical words. She can’t think properly, and can’t do anything else but to sink her head into his pillows, and take it. It was overwhelming, and she could hear his suction sounds, the lewd wetness, his groans of pleasure, and it should feel filthy, but it didn’t. Quite the opposite. And if he could make her feel all of this with his tongue alone, Galadriel wasn’t sure she was prepared for what would come next. 

 

She grabbed him by the hair, her fingernails piercing his scalp, but she couldn't control it. As if she was scared he would stop, and she didn’t want that. She might have even begged him not to, out loud. He didn’t seem to mind the pain, on the contrary, it appeared to drive him on, as he, too, tightened his grasp on her legs. She wants more, more of what he’s giving her. She has lost ownership over her own body, and was all want, and hunger, and need. She knew what she needed, and she knew Halbrand would take her there.  

 

“Halbran— Oh!” Her back arched, and she was all lose limbs on his bed. "Please—"

 

Galadriel felt it heightening, galloping towards her like a stallion in full speed, and before she realized it, it happened. Waves washing throughout her entire body, as her chest quaked, her toes curled and from her throat escaped a sound she could only described as unholy, followed by tremors on her limbs, from head to toe. Halbrand just kept going, allowing her to ride her orgasms until her hands tried to push his head away; she was too sensitive, she needed him to stop, now.

 

“I like to hear you begging for me,” Halbrand tease her, and Galadriel saw his mouth and chin glistering with her juices, and swallowed dry, in the afterglow of her climax. He whipped it off with the back of his hand, and climbed to place himself on top of her, spreading her legs open with his knee. “Beg for me, some more." 

 

“I need—” Galadriel was still regaining her breath, as he, gently, caressed her cheek.

 

All of this was news to her, she didn’t know people had conversations during this... act. She and Celeborn would just be done with it, and fall asleep, right after. But here, Halbrand was, taunting her to speak what was on her mind, what she wanted, how she enjoyed it... But she didn’t want to think about her late husband, right now. Her mind consumed with want for this man on top of her. 

 

“What do you need?” He taunted her, with a grin, and his eyes were more black than hazel, now. “Tell me.” 

 

“You—” Galadriel whispered. “I need you.” 

 

“There are many ways in which I can give you what you need,” Halbrand cocked his eyebrow, and his experience was showing. “Do you want me like this or—?"

 

“Yes,” Galadriel promptly said. “Like this.” 

 

Halbrand went down to kiss her, again, and Galadriel allowed his tongue to leisurely explore the inside of her mouth. This sort of kiss was a novelty, as well, but she found herself enjoying it more and more.  

 

“Want to help me putting the condom on?” Halbrand gently bit her lower lip, leaving her at the brick of insanity. “Or do you prefer to watch me doing it?” 

 

“I can watch.” Galadriel replied, as she swallowed dry. She has never helped a man putting on a condom before, and was afraid it might ruin the moment. But, by now, Halbrand was probably aware of how inexperienced she was compared to him.    

 

He knelt on the bed, between her legs, and stretched out his arm to reach for the box on the nightstand, and took one condom. He was still on his underwear, but Galadriel perceive the outline of his erection beneath the plain black fabric of his trunks. It was thick and big... bigger than anything she has seen. Not that she has seen much in her lifetime as naked men were concerned, but...

 

“Touch yourself.” His voice was more ravishing than commanding, but Galadriel obliged, all the same. Once her fingers touched her center, the wet sound they made was obscene. She was so wet for him...  

 

Halbrand removed his underwear; yet, another piece of clothing discarded on the floor. He had his eyes fixed on her face, travelling down her naked body, marveling at the sight of her wide open before him. He spit on his hand, and wrapped his fingers around his member, stroking himself a few times, a low groan escaping his throat. Galadriel observed him, almost hypnotized by the view of him performing such action, kneeling on top of her. Then, he removed the condom from the wrapper and placed it on himself, a tight fit, as her eyes were stuck on it, her lips parted, and she appeared to have stopped breathing.

 

Halbrand lowered himself to claim her mouth, with lengthy brushes of tongue and lips, causing her to blossom underneath him, her hips searching his, rubbing his erection against her, the need to be filled, them both moaning at the feeling of each other's warmth, pulsing in anticipation. Her hands were on his waist, and went up to feel the muscles of his back, and arms, and neck. His tongue went deeper into her mouth, once the tip breached her entrance, slowly, as a chocked groan escaped from her throat, at the intrusion.    

 

He started slow, and gentle, allowing her inner walls to adjust to his length, inch by inch. Galadriel was drenched, and he slid in, easily, but the burn of the stretch was there, all the same. It had been so long... it was as if it was her first time, all over again. But Halbrand was in no rush for this to be over, and thrusted into her, gradually, patiently, setting up a delightful pace for both of them, until he was able to build up their shared pleasure, and quickening his speed.

 

Galadriel cried out, loudly, for each thrust he gave her. Her entire body propelled by the might of his strokes, the bed tapping against the wall; he was hitting some sensitive spot inside of her, in need of friction. She must look like a woman possessed, Galadriel considered: her mouth wide open, her eyes rolling at the back of her head, and her fingernails desperately crawling at his back, pulling him closer than he already was.

 

“As much as I enjoy hearing you scream like this,” Halbrand groaned against her ear, causing her to tremble as his fingers touched her lips. “I have neighbors, princess. Elders, mostly.” She looked so innocent in this moment, as she looked up at him through her eyelashes. “I don’t want any trouble. Can you keep it a tad lower, or... can I put my hand over your mouth?” 

 

“You want to choke me?” Galadriel asked, regaining her breath. She might lack the experience, but she wasn’t a nun oblivious to the ways of the world, and she heard of such... fantasies. 

 

“No,” Halbrand replied. “Can I?” He showed her his hand, he wanted to demonstrate, and she nodded in agreement. “Open your mouth, as you did before,” She felt a bit awkward, but did as told. Then, he placed his palm above her lips, below her nose. It wasn’t so bad. It was fairly simple. And he wasn’t suffocating her, at all. “Is this alright?” 

 

“Yes,” Galadriel agreed to it, her voice muffled by his palm. “I didn’t realize I was being so loud— Oh!” 

 

He speared her before she could carry on, and now her screams were smothered by his hand over her mouth.

 

It didn’t take long for them both to reach their release. Halbrand made sure Galadriel was first, as he bent her hips up, to rub against his pelvic bone, and she was left trembling, all over again. She knew he was near when his pace became erratic, as if an invisible force was weighting him down, and he buried himself deep inside of her, with a groan of relief, followed by three others, as he pumped into her, his head resting on the curve of her neck. 

 

He breathed deeply, and went to lay down on the bed, his back against the mattress, looking at the ceiling. They were both lost in the daze of their orgasms. 

 

“Come here,” She begged, stretching out her arm, searching for him in the bed, and found him right at her side. “I want more— Let’s do it, again...”

 

“Give me a minute,” Halbrand chuckled, as he was regaining his breath. He seated down on the bed, and removed the condom, carefully, and threw it into a garbage bin. Then, he returned to her side, and embraced her. “You want more, hm? Was it that good?” Galadriel just smiled, as if she was intoxicated, drunk in him. “You’ve never been properly fucked, have you?” 

 

These words should repulse her, and with any other man maybe they would, such foul language. But with him, they seemed to ignite something primal inside of her, something animalistic. A side she has never got the chance to explore. Until now.

 

Galadriel only grabbed him by the back of the neck and pulled him closer for another wet, tonguey kiss. It was sloppy, and hungry, but she didn’t want it to end. Soon enough, he was ready for her, again, and Galadriel threw all caution out of the window, and mount him, as she would the horses that took her up the cliffs; her hands on his chest and one leg on each side of his body, ready to ride him to victory.   

Notes:

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed it!

Chapter 8: Alloyed [NSFW]

Halbrand’s hand was on her waist, locking her in place, while the other had her hair twisted around his fist, grabbing her head. Galadriel was all sweat, and bouncing breasts, and moans, as she was kneeling, on all fours, in front of him. Who would have thought just an animalistic position would feel so good?

 

They fell asleep after Galadriel mount him, only to wake up wanting a couple of hours later. They would sleep, and they would awake to get lost in each other's arms, again. The condom box had six packages, and they were all gone by morning.

 

 

---

 

 

“You know what you need, deerie?” Disa asked Galadriel, while she handed her a glass of red wine. They were in another of Disa and Durin’s dinner parties, but both women were in the privacy of the kitchen, as Galadriel watched her host cooking, and was bracing herself for, yet, another conversation about dating. “You need to find yourself a nice man.” 

 

“Not this again, Disa,” Galadriel rolled her eyes, a nonverbal expression of exasperation. “And, please, no more attempts to set me up with any of your male friends. Or Durin’s, for that matter.”

 

“We introduced you to some fine lads,” Disa sighed, while stirring the tomato sauce on the stove. “And you declined them all on the first date. Some even said you were a wee bit... rude with them.”  

 

“It’s nothing personal against them, I’m just... not looking for anything of that sort, right now.”  

 

“Gal,” Disa stopped what she was doing, and looked in her direction. Her eyes were fierce, but still reflected compassion. “It’s been years since you lost Celeborn. Yours was that type of quiet love, but... Don’t you miss having someone?” 

 

“No,” She replied, decisively. “I have my work, and my friends. I don’t need anyone else in my life.” 

 

“Maybe you are not into... men ?” Disa wondered. “Would you prefer to meet our girl friends, instead?”   

 

“I can see where you are getting at, but it’s not that, either.”

 

“You don’t like sex?” 

 

“Of course, I like sex,” Galadriel whispered, looking over her shoulder, towards the door, fearing Durin and Elrond could overhear their conversation. “I just have other concerns on my mind, at the moment.”  

 

“Many people don’t like sex,” Disa shrugged, as she was adding seasoning to the sauce. “Others, had poor experiences that made them uninterested in sex.”  

 

“I’m not sure I appreciate what you are implying,” Galadriel said, in a serious tone. “You expect me to badmouth my deceased husband?”  

 

“Not at all. One must not speak ill of the dead.” Disa ruminates. “Besides, I have no idea of what went behind closed doors. Maybe, he was such a fantastic lover you now believe no one could ever match up to him. You have always been extremely private about such topics, even when we weren’t.”  

 

Indeed, Disa and Durin were one of those couples who had no problem letting everyone else be made aware of how much they enjoy themselves... in every way. For her part, Galadriel has never felt comfortable with public displays of affection, less alone sexuality. She and Celeborn have always been a very discreet , proper, couple , who kept private affairs, private.

 

 

---

 

 

That was all about to change.

 

Halbrand had no quarrel in kissing her or holding her whenever they went out in public. Galadriel couldn’t really figure out if he had a possessive streak, of marking her as his own, of letting everyone made aware she was with him; or he just didn’t care about the presence of others to let his passion to be known. Maybe, it was a bit of both. Nevertheless, and against all odds, Galadriel found herself not minding his lack of discretion, and reciprocating.  

 

She felt like a teenager these days. Although, they rarely left his bedroom since that night. One week has passed, and their days were filled with sex, food, sleep and more sex. It was the first time she has been able to sleep without chemical aid, in over a decade, as well.  

 

Galadriel wasn’t aware if it was due to being touch-starved for over a decade, or how good it felt, but she couldn't get enough of him; of his kisses, of the way he embraced her, and touched her. His fingertips on her skin sufficed for her passion to be ignited, and blossom for him. She had entered his labyrinth, and lost track of her way out.  

 

“Do you want some coffee?” Galadriel asked him, while they were in the kitchen, and she was nearly finishing hers.

 

“Come here.” Halbrand whispered, and his eyes lusting all over her, told her everything about his intentions. Galadriel smiled to herself and took a final gulp of her coffee, placing the cup inside the sink. 

 

She walked towards him, sitting down on one of the chairs at the dinner table. He was naked, she was wearing one of his t-shirts, again. It was strange to be this carefree about her body. In her past marriage, things had been so different.

 

But Halbrand was the opposite of Celeborn. While her late husband was restrained, conventional, and cared for social etiquette, Halbrand didn’t; he was laid-back, charismatic, full of confidence, without being arrogant about it. Halbrand enjoyed teasing her, his sexuality was as natural as breathing and wasn’t confined to the bedroom. With Celeborn, their “marital duties” were almost a chore, scheduled to happen once a month, if she was lucky; whereas with Halbrand, it was unpredictable, it could happen anytime, anywhere. 

 

Once she was near, he pulled her closer until her knees brushed his and then guided her onto his lap. Galadriel gasped, softly, as she straddled him, one leg on each side of his hips, her feet barely touching the ground. Her t-shirt gathering above her womb, revealing her bare sex to him, but she did not mind. Nor when his hands were on her waist, and his mouth was trailing a worshipful path down her neck.  

 

“I’m ravenous for something else.” He groaned against her throat. 

 

“Are you?” Galadriel swallowed a chuckle, as she felt him hardening in between her legs, no underwear to separate them. “We might break the chair.” 

 

Her fingers threaded into his scalp, and he went to claim her mouth with his, hungry, greedy. They kissed like they were starving, and were each other's nourishment. His hands roamed her lower back, pulling the fabric, to reveal her bare skin of her ribs, his fingertips setting a trail that would culminate with that t-shirt falling down to the floor, her breasts pressing against his chest.  

 

Halbrand stood up, and lifted her in his arms, effortlessly, as her legs wrapped themselves around his waist. Galadriel hold on to him, as he carried her to the couch, nearby. She wondered if he would ease her down onto it, but, on the contrary, it was him who seated down, with her still mounting him. He enjoyed this position, Galadriel had come to realize. And all for the best, because she discovered, she loved it, too.  

 

“Halbrand—” She moaned, her throat exposed, as he was kissing her breasts, taking one of her nipples into his mouth. “We have to stop. We are out of condoms, again.” 

 

He let go of her nipple, a trail of saliva escaping his parted lips, as he gazed up at her face. They were both so desperate for each other, and yet. 

 

“Just this once.” He suggested, with a hint of a grin on his lips.

 

“Halbrand— I’m not having unprotected sex with you.” Galadriel replied, while her hands rested on the back of his head, still. 

 

“I’m clean, if that’s your concern.” He said, and then saw something else on her eyes. “I’ll pull out. I won’t get you pregnant.” 

 

“It’s too risky.” She said, her forehead resting against his. “I’m not on birth control.”

 

“Don’t you trust me?” He asked, his hand fondling her cheek, and biting his lower lip. “I would like to feel you, at least one time.” 

 

“I— It’s too much of a risk.” She whispered into his lips, but her hands were exploring the back of his neck, and his had travelled down to her waist, gently grabbing her flesh. She could feel her heartbeat in between her legs, a warm feeling spreading, the slick of her arousal pooling.

 

“I know it’s a gamble,” Halbrand groaned against her lips. “But I’ll pull out, I promise. I don’t want any babies.” He swallowed a chuckle, and he sounded confidant, but a bit nervous. "Not yet."

 

“I— I want to feel you, too, but—” Galadriel confessed, her fingertips going down his chest, feeling his muscles, his heartbeat.  

 

“You are on top of me.” Halbrand cocked his eyebrow and grinned, mischievously, teasing her. “You are in control. I’m a slave to your will, princess.” 

 

Galadriel chuckled at that, while she bit her lower lip. She enjoyed that; being in command, giving orders, telling others what to do. His words only made her want him more, her sanity escaping her, consumed by need, and arousal.  

 

“Or we can just touch each other,” Halbrand proposed, and he looked like a man at the brick of losing self-control, and she could feel his cock twitching against her inner tights. He was so hard, so desperate for relief. “It would be safer.” 

 

Galadriel nodded, and his hands went from her cheeks down to her neck, ribs. Halbrand took one of her nipples into his mouth, while his other hand trailed down her stomach, in between her legs, parting her folds. 

 

“Fuck, you are so wet—” Halbrand groaned, a blend of surprise and intoxication, while his fingers began to play her like a harp.  

 

Her entire body curling on his lap, beneath his fingertips, the heat of his mouth, like the waves that crashed against the cliffs outside the window. He fondled that sensitive bulb of nerves, while two fingers worked their way inside, and her nails pierced his scalp, her moans begging him not to stop, not until those sweet shockwaves washed through her, and she was choking on his name.

 

But his fingers weren’t enough, not even after she nearly collapsed on his chest on the aftermath of her climax. She was still catching her breathe, when she took his throbbing cock into her palm, and started to stroke it. It was clumsy; she was ashamed to admit her inexperience, but it was visible. These were the sort of things she wouldn’t do in her previous relationship, and only now she was realizing how much she was oblivious to these pleasures.  

 

“Am I hurting you?” Galadriel eventually asked, a bit embarrassed by it, she was always so self-assured on everything else.

 

“No,” Halbrand replied with a smile. “You are being too gentle.” Then he covered her hand with his. “I’ll guide you.” He began to quick the pace of her hand on his erection, and groaned, deeply. But then, he stopped. “Spit.” Galadriel met his eyes with a confused and unsure expression. “It hurts if there’s no lubrification.” He explained, and Galadriel merely bit her lower lip. “I can do it, if it makes you uncomfortable, still.”

 

But she did not enjoy being confronted with her own inadequacy, either. And instead of doing what he asked, Galadriel’s fingers went in between her legs to collect some of her own arousal. And he was right, she was wet, dripping for him. Then, her hands went to envelop his cock again, up and down its length. 

 

“Fuck—” He moaned, his head falling against the top of the couch. “You want to torture me, now, Galadriel?” 

 

“I thought you said I was in control, here.” She whispered against his mouth, and saw a grin appearing there. “And so, I’ll do as I please.”

 

“I am your servant, my queen .”

 

She gave him a particular long stroke, and he groaned against her lips. She liked having this amount of power over him, his entire pleasure hanging on the motions of her hand. She could decide to give, or to take. But he was a generous lover, and Galadriel a benevolent queen.  

 

Her hands on his chin brought him closer, and she kissed him, deeply; her tongue teasing his lower lip, a mischievous, playful brush. She didn’t know what it was about this man that made her behave like this, so freely, so unrestrained. She could feel her willpower hanging by a thread.

 

In the bedroom upstairs, Galadriel’s phone rang. But she did not care for it, this time.

 

Instead, she directed his cock inside, and buried it to the hilt, wet as she was. They both moaned at the feeling, her hands on his strong shoulders, while Halbrand looked up at her, disbelief on his eyes. 

 

“I thought you said you didn’t wan—” 

 

Galadriel hushed him with her lips upon his, urging him to open his mouth for her to taste. 

 

“I changed my mind,” She breathed out once she broke the kiss, and began to move her hips, up and down. “I want to feel you, I want—” She nearly verbalized how much she craved for him to fill her, but couldn’t gather the courage.  

 

His hands on her waist went down to her buttocks, grabbing the flesh with strength, but not hurt. His touch grew possessive, dominant, and soon Halbrand couldn’t help himself, and quickened her movements on his lap, as Galadriel’s entire body bounced from the might of his thrusts into her. She didn’t mind him taking the lead, and allowed him to set the tempo of their shared pleasure, again.

 

Galadriel couldn’t explain it, but it was so much better without a condom to separate them. She was playing with fire, the rational part of her brain told her. They were taking a gigantic risk; there was a high chance this could end badly. But the delight she was feeling eclipsed everything else. 

 

She was so aroused and sensitive, it didn’t take long for her to reach her release, again; and she was left shaking on top of him, his mouth sucking at her nipple, while he plunged in and out, prolonging her state of bliss.

 

“Ga—Galadriel—” Halbrand's face twisted in pleasure, his lips parted, and his breath ragged, as his hands left her hips. “I’m going to come—”

 

As soon as he finished saying these words, Galadriel lifted her knees, his cock leaving her and landing on his lower belly. He quickly finished stroking himself until he spilled all over his chest, with a deep groan, his head falling over.  

 

“I need to take a shower.” Halbrand chuckled, regaining his breathe, while he gazed down at the mess on his skin below.

 

“Yes,” Galadriel agreed, still kneeling on his lap. “A shower would be nice.”

 

Her phone rang again, but Galadriel ignored it and rose to her feet, leading the way for them to go take a bath, together. 

 

 

* * * 

 

 

They climbed the stairs to go get dressed. They had shopping to do. During these past days, Galadriel had bought a few clothes on the stores nearby. Her own laid forgotten back at the resort. She had no worries on her mind, she was on vacation, and the sudden torrid affair with Halbrand took her by surprise, and ignited something in her she didn’t even know she had. She has never felt so... liberated.

 

“I really should get some work done,” Halbrand said, playfully and as if he was chastising himself. “I haven’t been down to the shop in five days.”

 

“What's stopping you from working?” Galadriel grinned, as she put on her bra. 

 

“Not what, rather whom.” Halbrand grinned back, as he was putting on a pair of jeans. “I can’t resist you.”  

 

Galadriel laughed but once she went to check her phone, reality came rushing back. She had eleven missing calls, and ten text messages from Elrond, all begging her to reach him as urgent as possible. How didn't she heard her phone ringing? She frowned, worried something might have happened back at Lindon. 

 

“What is it?” Halbrand asked, noticing her concern. 

 

“Elrond wants me to call him, he says it’s urgent.” Galadriel replied, and dialed his number, and went downstairs.  

 

“Galadriel! Thank God! Finally!” She overheard Elrond’s distressed voice across the line. 

 

“What happened? Is everything alright?” Galadriel asked, as it was as if a cold shiver freeze her entire body, anxiety kicking in. “Have you found him?” 

 

“Found—? No! Thank God I found you!” 

 

"Found me?" Galadriel asked in confusion. "What are you talking about?"

 

“We haven’t heard from you in over a week, and just today the resort called to inform you haven’t been there all this time, either!” Elrond replied, almost a mixture of concern and anger. “What is going on? Where are you?”  

 

Galadriel felt like a child getting caught stealing cookies from a jar, or worse, an adulterous whose affair has been discovered, even though she has been a widower for over a decade, now.

 

“I’m in Númenor,” Galadriel replied, trying to sound as neutral as possible. “Where else would I be?” 

 

“Why aren’t you at the resort, then?” 

 

“I’ve been staying with... friends.” Galadriel replied, biting her lower lip, trying to escape the awkward inquiry. Then, she saw Halbrand walking downstairs, but she couldn’t discern the cryptic expression on his face. 

 

“Friends? Or a friend?” Elrond’s voice sounded knowledgeable, and Galadriel hated how easy he could read through her. They have been friends, almost family, for decades, after all, ever since Elrond was a little boy. “Is it the friend with whom you were having dinner the other night? This... Halbrand?”

 

“All that matters is that I’m fine, yes? You don’t need to worry about me.” Galadriel said. “I’ve been so occupied having fun with my new friends, I— It slip my mind.” 

 

“Why are you dodging the question?”  

 

“There’s no reason for concern.” Galadriel continued to try avoiding giving him an answer. Everything was too soon, too fragile with Halbrand, they haven’t yet discussed what they were supposed to be. 

 

“Having fun, yes. Are you two— you know...” 

 

“What?” Galadriel felt her cheeks burning. “What makes you think that—?” 

 

“It pains me you don’t trust me, Galadriel, but if you are... you know, having fun with him, I’m glad for you. You deserve to be happy.”

 

“Thank you, Elrond.” Galadriel smiled, and was able to breathe again.   

 

“Just make sure you use protection.” Elrond said, and Galadriel cleared her throat at that. “And keep in touch . And for the love of God, go check with the resort, I believe they are close to call the police to report a missing guest.”  

 

“I will... check in with the resort.” Galadriel replied, her eyes dancing around the ceiling, to remain calm. “And I’ll keep in touch from now on.”  

 

“Well, you made that promise once before, Galadriel,” Elrond recalled. “Keep it, this time.”  

 

“I will.” Galadriel said. “Love you. Goodbye.” 

 

“Love you, too.” 

 

“Your friends do enjoy to keep tabs on you.” Halbrand remarked after Galadriel hung up the phone. “It’s a wonder they let you go for a whole year.” 

 

“The resort called Elrond because of my absence,” Galadriel explained. “Apparently, they are ready to call the police and report me missing.”

 

“Perhaps you should spend the night there, today.”  

 

“Or we could.” Galadriel teased him, coming closer to him, and that drew a smile out of him. “I have six condoms, there.” 

 

“I’m afraid those standard-size condoms are of no use to me, princess,” Halbrand grinned, as his hands went to her waist, pulling her closer. “A small fit.”

 

“Well,” Galadriel teased him, flashing her eyelashes. “It seems we have some shopping to do before we get there, then, big boy.” 

Notes:

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed it!

Chapter 9: Sailing Into the Dawn [NSFW]

Halbrand did not ask questions about her past, and Galadriel did the same to him. There was a shared, unspoken grief between them, but they didn’t talk about it. There was no need; there was understanding, recognition and acceptance, and it was enough.

 

Sauron has barely been on her mind, these days. And it was not as if she had a choice, he could be anywhere in the world. It was a time for rest. Her work would still be there one year from now.  

 

Halbrand did not pry, nor forced her to talk more than she felt comfortable with. And it was a nice change from the constant inquiries and awkward questions she would get every time she would meet someone new.

 

Instead, Halbrand would compel her to verbalize different things.

 

“Just like that!” Galadriel cried, her golden hair clinging on to her face, bouncing on her bare, sweaty skin. “You are going to make me come—”  

 

This sort of language has never been a part of her vocabulary, until now.  

 

“You are coming, again, baby?” Halbrand’s ragged breath was on her ear, as his hand went forward to remove the hair from her face, down to her breast, teasing her nipple. The other was teasing her swollen clit, as she grinded her hips against his lap, up and down, and he would move his own, thrusting into her with might, from behind.

 

“Ye-Yes—” She breathed out, as her face turned to kiss him, her tongue invading his mouth, sloppy, needy. Halbrand had the power to leave her at the brick of insanity. And, as quickly as it built up, she crashed, as waves of pure delight washed all over her body.

 

They laid in bed afterwards, embraced, Galadriel resting her head on his chest, listening to his heartbeat as her finger traced invisible circles on his tiny hairs there. This was nice. This was more than nice, to be held like this, to be on his strong arms, taking in the scent of him, as he would play with the golden locks of her hair. It was comforting, and more intimate than any sex they could ever had, she considered.

 

“You are so beautiful.” He whispered, almost worshipful, and Galadriel found herself bloating with pride.

 

“Thank you,” She said, her chin resting on his chest, as she looked up at him, with a pleased, playful expression. “You aren’t so bad, yourself.” 

 

Halbrand chuckled at that, but his smile faded a bit once her hand caressed his face, fondling his beard. On his eyes, she could see it. There were no love declarations nor confessions ever since that afternoon at his shop. But it was not necessary. They both felt the same way. He draw her in for another kiss, this time gentler, more vulnerable, almost.

 

 

* * *

 

 

It took her a while to get used to Halbrand walking around naked, but Galadriel was accustomed to it, by now. He moved about so confident, even in her hotel room. And to her own, surprise, she has become more comfortable on her own skin, also. She relished the way his eyes would linger on her body, as if she was a precious jewel, or a relic for worship. He would never hide how attractive he found her, how much he desired her, and it was doing wonders for her self-confidence.  

 

It was early morning, and Halbrand opened the balcony windows from pair to pair, allowing the gentle breeze to enter the room, and sweep away the smell of sex. Galadriel was still on the bed, looking at the nudity of his back, and waiting his return, but he took a step forward into the terrace.  

 

“Halbrand—” Galadriel interjected in an attempt to stop him, but he was already out of sight. She quickly got up of bed, the linens rolled around her body, and went after him, stopping at the threshold. “What are you doing? Someone might see you!” 

 

“I have to thank the architect of this resort for taking into account the privacy of the guests,” Halbrand pointed to the tall walls on both sides. “Unless, someone is looking this way with a pair of binoculars, from across the sea.”  He smiled at her; that mischievous smile of his, inviting, alluring. Then, he went inside of the infinity pool, at the edge of the terrace. “The water is great!”

 

“I’m sure it is!” Galadriel sighed, slightly annoyed at his charming ways. 

 

“Join me.” 

 

“Let me go dress my bikini.” She said, but was only met with a taunting laugh from him, which vexed her. “Are you making fun of me?” 

 

“I’ve already seen everything there is to see, baby,” Halbrand grinned, his hand pushing his hair back, removing the excess water. “You don’t need to put on any piece of clothing to join me.” 

 

Baby. His new term of endearment. Galadriel didn’t know how she felt about it, yet. But it was a colorful contrast to the playful “princess”, which denoted a hint of mockery of her wealthy status.  

 

“I’m not going into that pool—” Galadriel’s eyes looked around, fearing the guests in the next rooms might hear her, and then whispered: “Naked.”  

 

“I’m afraid I can’t hear you from this distance,” Halbrand shrugged. “You have to come closer.”

 

Galadriel took a deep breath. She knew no one would be able to see her there, but she clung on to the sheet around her, all the same.

 

“I’m not going to swim here without any clothes on.” She whispered, when she at the edge of the pool, and Halbrand dived to meet her. there. 

 

“I didn’t hear you.” He said when his head emerged from the water. 

 

“I’m not— Ah!” 

 

Before Galadriel could finish her sentence, Halbrand’s hand was pulling her under water, linens and all. She landed on his strong arms, her legs up in the air, preventing her feet from bumping into the edge of the pool. She was drenched, the fabric swirling around them. 

 

“Halbrand!” She shouted in bewilderment, as she shook her head, her hands on her face to remove the water from her eyes. “These are the only bed sheets!” 

 

But he merely laughed, as if he hadn’t one worry in the entire world, and took her face into his hands, kissing her deeply. “We can sleep at my place, tonight.” 

 

“You deceiver!” Galadriel spat out once he broke the kiss, but he merely laughed. “You tricked me!”  

 

“It was for a good cause.” Halbrand cocked his eyebrow, as he untangled the sheet from around her body, allowing her nudity to be available to his hungry gaze. “Sometimes, you need a push in the right direction.” 

 

“The right direction?” Galadriel repeated, almost in disbelief. 

 

“Into my arms.” He replied, as he embraced her waist, and allowed their bodies to float on the water.

 

Afterwards, Galadriel ordered room service for breakfast, and they ate in the terrace. She still wasn’t sure if she was allowed an extra guest, but something told her she didn’t. And she had enough of Elrond’s intuitions, meddling in things she preferred to keep private, even from him.  

 

Halbrand protested, but Galadriel managed to convince him to allow her to apply some after-sun lotion to his skin. The sun was hot, and it could be dangerous. He eventually gave up, but a part of her could tell he enjoyed having her hands massage his skin, as she mimicked what the therapist had performed on her. 

 

She was rubbing it on his shoulders and neck, when she noticed strange scars across his upper back, of what appeared to be three stab wounds, and they were old too, nothing more than three cold white marks. She traced them with her finger and felt him growing tense under her touch. She has never noticed them before. 

 

“Scars from an old... work accident.” Halbrand eventually said, but his voice sounded strained.

 

“I suppose working with fire can be hazardous.” Galadriel considered, and carried on massaging his back, not thinking any of it.

 

“If I was to tell you how I got those scars you would never believe me.” His voice sounded dark, and cryptic, all of the sudden.

 

“You don’t have to tell me anything you don't want to.” Galadriel reassured him, and planted a kiss on his shoulder. That caused him to relax, and he turned around, taking her chin into his hands, softly, his finger brushing against her skin.

 

“You are precious to me.” Halbrand whispered and then placed a gentle kiss on her lips. “But if you were to discover everything about my past you would cast me out.” 

 

“It does not matter,” Galadriel shook her head, and smiled down at him. “Whatever it was you did, be free of it.”

 

“I never believed I could be,” Halbrand sighed, his hand on her cheek. “Until I met you. You gave me peace. One I haven’t felt in years, or maybe I never did.”

 

“I’ve felt it, too.”

 

Galadriel’s words echoing to their first kiss at his shop, two weeks prior. With his hand at the back of her neck, Halbrand pulled her to join their lips, and took her down into the mattress, allowing their passion to run wild, once more. 

 

Only now, he was gentler, his touch more vulnerable and intimate. This time, he made love to her.  

 

 

* * *

 

 

After lunch, they spent the afternoon scouring the caves, as Halbrand took her for a boat ride around the island. He told her, once he arrived at Númenor, he would sometimes go into the caves to clear his mind, and to stay away from the crowds. Galadriel thought nothing of it, he was used to work alone, after all. Sometimes loneliness can be addictive, she knew all about that.

 

Some of the caves were now tourist resorts, too; it was the downside of becoming a tourist destination. Some could be walked on, others allowed to swim or dive. And while many of these caves were crowded with tourists all day long, others were only known to locals, still. Galadriel marveled at the turquoise shadows dancing in the stone, above her head. And for a moment she thought she could be happy here, on Númenor.  

 

The sun was still up when they made it back to Halbrand’s apartment. With the bed sheets ruined back at the resort, and ashamed to ask for new ones, Galadriel decided to spend the night there, with him. Halbrand was slicing some bread for their afternoon snack, when her phone rang with a text message from Míriel. 

 

“Míriel is inviting me to have dinner with her friends, again,” Galadriel said, with her phone in hand. “Tonight.”

 

“Go,” Halbrand replied, as he took a small jar of marmalade from the kitchen cabinets. “I’ll be here when you return.”

 

“Do you want to come, also—?” Galadriel asked. "With me?"

 

"As your...” Halbrand’s eyes looked at her, beneath a few strands of hair, his voice curious.  

 

“As my friend?” Galadriel promptly answered, but her voice sounded nervous.

 

“Alright.” 

 

Galadriel could see a glimpse of disappointment on his eyes, because it was the same as her own.

 

They haven’t yet to discuss what they were supposed to be. They were friends, but they did not behave like friends. But they haven’t put a label on what they are, not yet. It just happened; she fell into his arms and hasn’t left ever since. Halbrand never pop the “will you be my girlfriend” question, nor have they discussed anything of that sort. It wasn’t a lie. They were friends. Friends who have lots of sex, and are too comfortable in each other's presence, who confide in each other what they won’t say to anyone else. Who have a silent understanding and there’s no need for words between them. 

 

Around eight pm. they were ready to leave. The restaurant was the same as her last dinner with Míriel and her group of friends, and it appeared to be a favorite among them. Only this time, she had Halbrand to guide her through the narrow and cobbled streets of downtown Númenor, instead of an GPS app on her phone.

 

Once they got there, it was as Galadriel had suspected: Míriel and Elendil were now a couple, probably after gathering the courage to move forward after a few drinks at the Erulaitalë. The middle-aged man had his hand around Míriel's waist, signaling their new relationship status, as they stood near the counter, waiting to be escorted to their table. His son and daughter were there, as well. And they did not seem to mind their father’s new girlfriend, although their attention was on whatever conversation they were having with Valandil, Ontamo and Mairen.  

 

“Halbrand!” Míriel greeted them, her hand upon Elendil’s chest. “What an unexpected surprise!” 

 

“Galadriel invited me to join you,” Halbrand returned to his charming ways, his hands on his pockets. “I hope that’s not an inconvenience.” 

 

“Of course not.” Elendil reassured them. 

 

“So, the two of you are—” Míriel asked, a knowledgeable sparkle in her eye. 

 

“Friends.” Galadriel nodded, almost awkwardly. “We are friends.” 

 

“Hmm, hmm.” Míriel muttered, with a grin on her lips and a recognition on her brow, and her eyes would travel between Galadriel and Halbrand. "Friends. I see."

 

Galadriel has never felt so exposed, as if this woman could somehow see everything they have been doing for the past weeks.  

 

Luckily, one of the waiters arrived to take them to their designated table, allowing Galadriel to escape Míriel’s skilled gaze. Halbrand took the seat on her left, while Isildur was on her right. In front of her, the bride and groom. But right now, she would welcome their endless chatting about the wedding preparations instead of Míriel double meaning remarks about her and Halbrand.  

 

“We finally decided on the venue!” Marien announced to the table, and her voice sound exhilarated. “We are having a beach wedding!”  

 

Amid the congratulations, it was Valandil who had something to object: “What about the religious ceremony? Good luck dragging the priest down to the beach.” 

 

“We don’t need a religious ceremony,” Marien shrugged. “We aren’t exactly religious, ourselves.” 

 

“But your parents are.” Valandil was now talking to Ontamo, but he just brushed it off. 

 

“Is it you or them who are getting married?” Eärien teased him, with a hint of a grin on her face. 

 

“Anyway,” Marien turned her attention to Míriel from across the table. “We need to start discussing my wedding dress.”

 

“Of course,” Míriel nodded in agreement. “But not tonight. Tomorrow.” Buttering a piece of bread, she turned her attention elsewhere. “Galadriel, what places has Halbrand been showing you around Númenor? I bet your legs are getting toned from all the exercise you’ve been getting.”

 

Galadriel nearly chocked on her water but was able to compose herself. 

 

“The stairs were a bit daunting for me, too,” Halbrand quickly came to the rescue. “When I moved here.” 

 

“How long ago was it?” Elendil asked. 

 

“Over a decade, or so.” Halbrand replied.

 

“Strange how we’ve never crossed paths before this year's Erulaitalë.” Elendil observed. 

 

“Halbrand is kind of a workaholic,” Galadriel reassured them. “I’ve spent an entire day watching him work, once.” 

 

“I’ve heard of his shop,” Elendil clarified. “Some friends of mine have commissioned some work of his, in the past. But I don’t usually go downtown. Unless, it’s to go to the beach.” 

 

“Stairs or no stairs, Galadriel seems to have gotten more beautiful than before.” Isildur grinned in her direction, and winked. There it was: his usual, unwelcomed flirtation from two weeks ago. “Númenor suits you.”  

 

In the meantime, the waiter collected their orders, and returned with the dishes. Tonight, Galadriel allowed herself to have one glass of wine. She particularly enjoyed the sparking white the last time she was here.  

 

“Isildur seems taken with you.” Halbrand whispered into her ear, and Galadriel perceived a spike on his voice. A hint of... jealousy? Pride?

 

“Isildur?” Galadriel chuckled at the idea, as she came closer to him, for no one to hear what they were saying to each other. “He’s a kid.” 

 

“He’s looks like an adult to me.” 

 

“Why, don’t tell me now you are jealous of some boy fresh out of his teenage years, Halbrand.” Galadriel teased him, a slight grin appearing on her face. 

 

“Not jealous,” Halbrand corrected her, his hungry eyes on her. “On the contrary. They all can look and say whatever they want, but it’s me who’ll end up in your bed, tonight, or any other night.” 

 

“A bit full of ourselves, are we?” Galadriel laughed, as his nose brushed against her cheek, taunting her. 

 

“Or perhaps you would prefer if I was to drag you to this restaurant’ bathroom, take you on the sink and let you walk around with my cum leaking out of you.” 

 

Galadriel gasped and bit her lower lip at that, her cheeks burning, her heartbeat in between her legs at the prospect. One she shouldn’t have nor indulge. And she quickly gathered herself. 

 

“You are very excited at the expectation of marking me as your own,” Galadriel said, breaking their skin-to-skin contact. “You should know by now I don’t like being told what to do.” 

 

“No, you enjoy being in charge,” Halbrand grinned. “But I like it, too.” 

 

“It seems we are at a crossroads, then.” Galadriel cocked her eyebrow. 

 

“Not if we compromise.” Halbrand smiled at her, and went to take a sip of his wine.

 

“Oh, my God!” Míriel said, and she sounded shocked, her gaze fixed on some distant place. “This sort of news gives me the creeps! It’s terrifying to know there are lunatics like this in the world!” 

 

Galadriel heard her phone ringing on her purse, but as she was about to get it, a crowd gathered around the television, in the direction of Míriel’s gaze. In fact, whatever was on the news seemed to have grabbed the entire restaurant’s attention.  

 

“Turn it up!” Someone shouted to the man at the counter, and he took the remote control in hand and did as ask.

 

Galadriel looked down at her phone. It was Elrond calling. But before she had time to answer, the reporter’s words froze her entire body, and she felt it was hard to breath, her blood leaving her face. On the screen, there was a tall, pale man, with long jet-black hair, being taken into a police car, surrounded by law enforcement officers, his hands shackled at the front of his body.

 

“... was arrested this afternoon. The man is believed to be the notorious cult leader Sauron, who has been invading international authorities for over a decade. Known as Adar by his followers, the man has promptly denied the accusations and claims to have killed Sauron, himself.” 

Notes:

Let the mystery begin!

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed it.

Chapter 10: The Coming of Night

Notes:

We are getting into the angsty chapters of this story, as Galadriel puts the puzzle together.

It was impossible. Galadriel couldn’t believe it. Sauron could not be dead. Not until she had the opportunity to kill him, herself.

 

Her mind was blurred; she felt dizzy and sick, and her legs seem to have lost their strength as she forcefully sat down on her chair, phone in hand. Elrond was still calling. The noise was a faraway echo in her ears. The world seemed to have stopped, for a moment, as she digested the information. The past ten years of her life came rushing back in, hitting her like a storm. She was meant to be the one to catch Sauron, not some unnamed officers she has never spoken to before. And he, certainty, couldn’t be dead. She knew, deep in her bones, he wasn’t.  

 

“Are you alright?” 

 

Galadriel overheard Isildur's voice, next to her. It was as if she had come out of a trance state. And she noticed everyone at the table was looking down at her.

 

“Yes, I’m— I’m fine.” She shook her head, her eyes searched around. “Where is Halbrand?” 

 

“I think he went outside.” Isildur replied, as he took the seat next to her. 

 

“It’s best if I go home, now,” Galadriel searched her purse and placed some money on the table. It should be enough to pay for both her and Halbrand’s dinners. “Thank you so much for the invitation.” 

 

“But you haven’t finished your dinner!” Míriel said, taken back by her attitude. “Neither did Halbrand.” 

 

“I’m not feeling very well.” Galadriel rose from her seat. “Perhaps, it was the wine.”

 

“Oh, of course.” Míriel remarks as Galadriel’s phone starts ringing, again. 

 

“I really need to take this call, too,” Galadriel explained to the table. “Thank you, again.”

 

After the final greetings, Galadriel answered the phone, on her way out of the restaurant, but lingered near the entrance.  

 

“Elrond! I just heard the news!” 

 

“That is why I'm calling you, Galadriel,” His voice sounded more serious than concerned this time. “We are working with the police of the Southlands. They are still interrogating Adar, but we have strong reason to believe Sauron is dead.” 

 

“I don’t believe that,” Galadriel said with conviction. “Adar might be protecting Sauron.”  

 

“According to the information we got, that appears unlikely. Adar has been the new cult leader for the past decade,” Elrond informed. “He took charge of the cult after murdering Sauron.”  

 

“I’m returning to Lindon,” Galadriel interrupted him, with urgency. “I’ll book a ticket, pack my bags and be there tomorrow, if possible.”

 

“No.” Elrond promptly interjected. “You stay in Númenor, resting and on vacation, as we had planned.” 

 

“This changes everything, Elrond!” 

 

“This changes nothing.” 

 

“Do you truly expect me to remain here, on lo vacation, when they arrested the man I’ve been searching for over a decade, now?” Galadriel was bewildered by what Elrond was asking of her. He couldn’t possibly think she would stay on this island and do nothing. "I’ve waited years for this moment.”  

 

"Gil-galad doesn’t want you here, Galadriel,” Elrond revealed. “You have too much of a personal connection to this case. It’s best if you stay there, and allow us to interrogate Adar.”  

 

“I devoted my entire life to this case for the past ten years, and you want me to step aside now?” Galadriel spited out, her pride wounded, tears on her eyes.

 

“I’m sorry, Galadriel. I really am.” Elrond’s voice sounded honest through the phone. “But you’ll have to remain in Númenor for the time being. We’ll keep in touch.”  

 

Elrond hung up while Galadriel still had her phone on her ear, and it was like another bath of ice-cold water, after the news she just heard. She didn’t expect them to believe her, but she knew Sauron couldn’t be dead, either. Nevertheless, she needed to gather her strength, first. She felt herself at the brick of collapse, emotionally and physically.

 

She went outside to find Halbrand at the front terrace of the restaurant. “What are you doing?” Galadriel asked, almost in shock, when she saw him at the corner. “Since when do you smoke? Do you know how bad it is for you?” 

 

“I quitted, years ago,” Halbrand said, but took another drag of the cigarette between his fingers. “It’s good to calm the nerves, though.” 

 

“Can we go home?” Galadriel begged, and he nodded, but didn’t gave her as much as a second glance, as he smashed the cigarette butt against the astray on the table.  

 

Their return walk to Halbrand’s apartment was done in silent. They were both lost on their own thoughts, and there was an unspoken sentiment of not sharing it with each other. Galadriel appreciated it; she wasn’t feeling very talkative at the moment, as she tried to organize her own thoughts and consider what to do next. Should she disobey Gil-galad's orders or stay in Númenor like she was meant to? What they were asking of her was unfair, after all the sacrifices she had made for this case.

   

Halbrand opened the front door of his shop, and Galadriel was already climbing the stairs to the upper floor, when Halbrand seized her attention: “Can you give me a minute?” He swallowed dry, as if he was nervous, or even sad. “I just need to... do something down here. You go ahead.” 

 

“Alright,” Galadriel nodded. “Sure."

 

She went to take a shower. Her mind racing, but she felt so tired from her emotional mayhem. Her greatest desire was to pack up and leave, straight to the Southlands to interrogate the man who held all the answers she has been seeking for so long. She needed to look Adar in the eye, and make sure he was being truthful. But a part of her, didn’t want to leave Númenor, the place where she was starting to get some peace, at last. Galadriel knew she wasn’t going to get any rest on her own, and, tonight, took a sleeping pill for good measure. 

 

“Halbrand! I’m off to bed, now.”

 

“I’ll be there in a minute.”  

 

Galadriel overheard his voice downstairs, and a door being shut. But didn’t think too much of it, she was getting drowsy, the pill starting to work on her bloodstream. She marched herself to bed, lied down and fell asleep, shortly after, while Halbrand was still gone. 

 

 

* * *

 

 

The next day was spent on her phone. Galadriel read everything she could about Adar’s arrest and any news regarding the cult. It had been dismantled, and the man insisted on being the responsible for killing Sauron. He even seemed proud of it, according to some sources. Even when Halbrand took her for a boat ride around the island, Galadriel was more focused on what was happening on her screen than on looking at the landscape around her, even when the sea breeze was dancing on her face and hair.

 

But Halbrand never asked her anything, nor interrupted her frenetic chase for news. Not that Galadriel paid much attention to him during the day, entirely consumed with something else. And her next steps were still plaguing her mind. She should leave Númenor, at once. She should question Adar, herself.  

 

At night fall, Halbrand started the dinner preparations, as he went to his balcony to light the grill, but Galadriel’s mind was filled with questions that needed answers, and food was the last thing she was concerned about.  

 

“Do you remember when I told you my brother was murdered by a cult?” Galadriel asked, while she was already seated at the dinner table. “This man who has been arrested, the one the police believes to be Sauron, this is him. This might be the responsible for my brother’s murder.” 

 

“Yes, I remember,” Halbrand replied, but he had his back turned on her. “The satanic cult with the rings, right?” 

 

Galadriel frowned, and he grabbed her attention for the first time during the entire day. She didn’t recall ever talking to him about any rings linked to the cult. They only spoke about it once, when she gathered the courage to go to him, and they had sex for the first time. However, she tried to keep a neutral demeanor, and not allow her distrust to shine through. 

 

“Yes,” Galadriel nodded, her voice lower. “Rings for the three, seven and nine rankings within the cult. Designed and forged by Sauron himself.” 

 

“I think you might have mention it once,” Halbrand said, and his voice sounded calm and casual. “It’s a good thing they caught the one responsible.” 

 

But Galadriel was certain she has never talk about it with Halbrand. She mentioned the cult in broader terms, but never described it as “satanic”, and she surely never mentioned the “rings”. Unless, the news reported on it, and she was so consumed by her own thoughts, she missed it. Maybe he’s confusing what she told him with what he heard on the news. But inside of her chest, the seed of doubt grew.  

 

“Only this man, this Adar, claims to have killed Sauron,” Galadriel insisted, her eyes fixed on his back. “What if he’s lying? And what if Sauron is still out there?” 

 

“I don’t know much about the law,” Halbrand chuckled a bit. “But once a suspect confesses to a crime, isn’t that an admission of guilt?” He finally turned to face her, and there was a hint of a smile on his face, but Galadriel felt herself unconsciously retracting from him, for the first time, but didn’t let it show. Even when he approached her, and took her hands into his, she struggled to keep a passive facial expression. “Sauron is dead.” His voice sounded... overjoyed, almost. “You don’t have to worry about it, anymore, baby.” 

 

“But this Adar might be working for Sauron, still,” Galadriel insisted. “He might be concocting this story to protect Sauron.”

 

She saw something darkening in Halbrand’s eyes in that moment, but he merely caressed her hand, more gently. 

 

“If that’s the case, I’m sure the police will uncover it.” He said, and let go of her hands, walking back into the kitchenette. “But, from what I’ve seen, Adar seems confident he, indeed, killed Sauron. I think you can rest assure justice will be made, and Adar will face the death penalty for what he has done.”    

 

“For my brother... or for betraying Sauron?” Galadriel inquired, and her voice sounded more suspicious than she meant it to.

 

“For your brother, of course. For all of it.” Halbrand turned to face her, and smiled, but, for the first time, Galadriel did not believe his smile.

 

They had dinner in silence, and Galadriel found herself observing Halbrand while he ate his grilled tuna. She glanced at him, every once in a while, hoping he would not catch her keen eye. And she considered everything she knew about him. Which wasn’t much; he didn’t talk about his past, and even though it was clear something dark haunted him, she never thought too much of it, until now.  

 

It has been ten years since Halbrand has moved to Númenor. He doesn’t own a phone, nor any technology; he’s untraceable. He lives a quiet and isolated life. The truth is Galadriel hasn’t seen him around anyone else, nor has met any of his friends, if he has any. And yet, he’s charming, knows how to strike conversation with ease and is very outspoken in general. He had no problem connecting with Míriel and her group, which means he doesn’t have social anxiety, and, certainty, isn't an introvert. A personality like his was expected to have multiple acquaintances, but that’s not the case. It’s almost as if he’s deliberately... hiding.  

 

To think of it, Galadriel doesn’t even know his last name. Halbrand claims to have come here to start fresh, a new beginning, and there was some sort of disagreement in his past job. He also has scars on his back from it. “I know what is like to be in... bad terms... with one’s closest friends. It's the reason why I came here, too”; he had told her. What did he mean by that? She never asked, he never elaborated, either. But now it was obvious he was hiding something, but Galadriel did not want to confront him about it, not until she had some answers of her own.  

 

Her eyes wandered around the apartment as she was chewing on a piece of tomato, searching for some clue, or hidden place on the walls. But she found none. At least, not on plain sight. Everything was organized, but some intuition told her she wouldn’t found anything up here.   

 

“Can I borrow one of your books?” Galadriel asked Halbrand while he was doing the dishes. “I would like some reading to get my mind off things before going to bed.”

 

“Sure,” He nodded, but didn’t look her way. “Go ahead.” 

 

Galadriel fixed her gaze on the shelf; the books organized alphabetically, his many catalogs and anthologies devoted to artistic movements and styles. Her eyes tried to catch a glimpse of what was behind them, on the wall, but there was nothing there. Then, she took one of the books about jewelry and sat down on the couch.  

 

She went through the pages, but saw nothing of interest; no notes, no marks, no drawings, no sigils or symbols, nothing. It had been read, judging by the wrinkles on the spine, but there were no other physical indication of anything out of the ordinary.  

 

Halbrand, done with the dishes, went to sit down on the couch, next to her. Hours ago, Galadriel would have welcomed his embrace, and his kisses, or even silently begged for him to comfort her. But, at the moment, she could barely look at him, as she felt her trust shattering like a mirror. Yet, she wasn’t certain of anything.  

 

They remained silent, one book for each, until it was around eleven pm. and they decided to go to bed. Only this time, Halbrand went to the bathroom to fetch something Galadriel hasn’t seen on his hand for the past two weeks.  

 

“Are you taking a sleeping pill?” 

 

“We are a bit on edge, aren’t we?” He nodded, as she observed the bottle. “Do you want one?” 

 

“Yes,” Galadriel forced herself to smile. “Maybe, tonight, I’ll sleep better.” 

 

Halbrand placed one pill on her hand, as he swallowed one, himself. 

 

“I’m going to fetch us a glass of water.”

 

This might just work on her favor, Galadriel considered, as she hid the pill inside of her hand, and Halbrand went to the kitchenette and back with two glasses to wash down the medicine. She drank, but flushed the pill down the toilet, afterwards. 

 

Galadriel followed him upstairs, and they both lied down onto the mattress. Usually, getting into bed with Halbrand, especially when he was wearing nothing more than his underwear, would lead to other activities other than sleeping, but today it was different. 

 

“Do you mind if we just sleep?” She asked him, hoping to sound as casual as possible, as if no lingering suspicion was infecting her mind. 

 

“Of course not, baby,” Halbrand smiled, and took her cheek into his hands, and her lips into his. She tried to kiss him back, but she couldn’t fully commit to do it, not when these doubts were on her chest. She gave him a peck on the lips, and forced herself to smile, but he didn’t seem to think any of it. “I know you are concerned. But there’s nothing for you to be worried about.” 

 

“I’ve spent the last ten years with only one thought on my mind.” Galadriel revealed, and she studied every muscle on his face. “To catch Sauron, and bring him to justice.” 

 

“Justice has been made, baby,” Halbrand said, as he kissed her one last time. "Sleep well." 

 

"Good night."

 

Halbrand drifted into sleep shortly after, the sleeping pill kicking in, but Galadriel allowed a few minutes to pass, until his breath was deeper, to, quietly, get out of bed. She pulled the covers over her empty spot, again, for him not to notice any change in temperature, and went downstairs to seek what she was after.  

 

She went straight to his shelves. If there was any clue, of any sort, it wouldn’t be hidden in plain sight. He owned around forty books, and Galadriel browsed them all with the eye of a hawk, and her heartbeat on her ears like a drum. But there was nothing there. Galadriel took a deep breath in frustration, as her eyes wandered the apartment. She had a glimpse of everything there is to see in his kitchenette and bathroom cabinets, already.

 

A part of her felt a sting of guilt at her actions. What if she was wrong? What if she was suspecting him over nothing? But she promptly set these doubts aside; there was something dubious about Halbrand’s past, one way or the other. He was more than he claimed. He was hiding something.

 

Galadriel could hear his breath upstairs; he was sound asleep.

 

Still, she looked over her shoulder while unlocking the apartment door, as silent as humanly possible. It was black as pitch, and she hold on to the railing as she climbed down; her feet measuring the steps as she went. The only source of light were the windows at the front of the shop, as her eyes took a minute to get used to the dark. 

 

Galadriel searched the showcases, carefully looking at every object at display. Then, she remembered there were a set of two rings, near the entrance. But the window was locked. She wondered where Halbrand could have hidden the keys to open it. Perhaps at the counter?  

 

Her hands browsed through the drawers, but found only methodically organized notebooks and papers. She was careful not to disrupt his organization; he would notice if anything was out of place, she knew that much about him, already. She closed the last drawer, having found nothing.

 

Then, she looked to her right, and saw a door. Yesterday, she had overheard Halbrand closing a door downstairs, when she called out to him. Nearby, there was the set of knifes he was working on. Her hand stretched out to grab the doorknob, a silent pray for it to be unlocked.

 

The handle turned, and the door opened before her eyes. Galadriel turned on the lights, and it was a small storage room; boxes, dustpan and broom, a vacuum cleaner, his protective gear. At first glance, there was nothing here. Behind the door, there was a keyholder. She saw a set of small keys. Those must be the keys to the showcases.  

 

Yet, her attention turned to the boxes, to take a look at what was inside. Not a single thing of consequence in most of them; paperwork, books, receipts, and some were empty, which appeared to be the case of every box at the top of the shelves. Until, she reached out to one in the middle. At first, she believed it to contain nothing, but once she peeped inside, there was something at the bottom. She grabbed what seemed to be a small rectangular piece of plastic, with writings on it.  

 

“What—?” Galadriel whispered to herself, in utter shock, as if her eyes were deceiving her.

 

It was an ID card, but the name on it spelled “Annatar”, but the picture showed Halbrand. It was him, she had no doubt about it. It was the same face, but he was missing his beard, and had silky, long blonde hair, and blue eyes, instead.  

 

The card fell from her hands into the floor. Galadriel felt cold shivers down her spine. She suspected Halbrand to be hiding something, not that his whole identity was a lie, a deception. Who was this man? A part of her knew, suspected something was wrong from the beginning, but this...

 

She recalled his set of rings. Halbrand knew about the satanic cult without her ever mentioning it to him. But his name wasn't Halbrand, at all. Was it Annatar, or that was, yet, another disguise? Galadriel set herself on finding answers, and she did. But these answers terrified her, and only brought her closer to the conclusion she didn’t want to face.  

 

No, there had to be another explanation. She fell in love with this man. She had given herself to him in ways she hasn't to any other man aside from her late husband. He couldn’t be... It was not possible. 

 

Galadriel gripped the keys and went straight to the showcase. It unlocked. Her entire body was shaking as she took the rings into her hands to observe them. They were forged masterfully, but she already knew that. They were made of plain gold, incrusted with two red stones, each.  

 

She spined one on her fingers, looking for any crest or crack, but they were nearly flawless, a smooth surface. Then, on the inside, there was a small branding in the gold. And it was as if her entire world had collapsed beneath her feet.

 

It was the same sigil she had seen on her brother’s body ten years ago. The one that seemed to be the Devil’s fork. The same mark that was now all over the news, worn only by the cult leader.  

 

Halbrand is Sauron.

Notes:

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed it.