27. Unified

The return trip home was a sneaky affair which we executed quite well. None of us were caught and everyone managed to keep the contents of their stomachs down.

Unfortunately, I had to say goodbye to Thranduil. I had made the stupid suggestion that I should be prepared for the wedding at Gilron's home. Now I sort of regret that decision, because there is nothing I want more than to curl up with him and have a nice long sleep. I also miss Legolas... to the point that I actually started trying to rearrange my arrangements. Thranduil laughed at me and kissed me and told me to enjoy the peace and quiet. Both he and Legolas would be waiting for me when the sun sets, in a place that has been kept secret from both of us. Oropher has been very busy overseeing the preparations of the actual wedding feast with Ollie. Even now Ollie will not utter a word to me.

So I return with Ollie to her homestead, and am mercifully allowed a few hours to nap. When I awaken, I am fed a lot of Miruvor, which greatly improves my condition and allows me to eat a hearty brunch. The silly talk and bravado of the night before falls away, and a more regal and well-mannered attitude is evoked by all the ellith in the house. After all, I am being presented to the nobility of the elven world. As the bride of a Sindarin Prince nonetheless. This is a serious occasion, and according to Oliel, I must be perfect.

So I am scrubbed and polished to an inch of my life, using the most expensive and exquisitely scented salts and oils. My skin is slathered in buttery creams that make it smooth and silky to the touch, and my hair is treated to pretty much the same routine. It would seem the process of getting ready for the wedding feast is a stage by stage affair, and at no point do I attend to these personal tasks myself. Ferel and Ollie attend to the pampering and primping of my outward appearance and it is a pleasant time. We chat merrily amongst ourselves and I get to smell and try all the wonderful products before I am covered in them. We take breaks of course, to nibble on snacks that Gilron sends to us, and to allow both my friends to attend to their own dressing. Eventually, I am deemed ready and Gilron enters with the one dress I have kept a secret.

The gown that Gilron has made, along with the King and Thranduil's input, is the gown I will wear tomorrow morning when I am crowned. Oropher knows this but Thranduil does not, he just assumes this is my wedding gown, but it isn't. I know mortal customs from my world don't translate to elvish culture, but I wanted to keep this little bit alive, I wanted my appearance to be a surprise. So, working late nights with Gilron. we designed this dress, and I must say it is one of my best creations. I did not think it would be possible, but with Gilron's superior craftsmanship, anything can be brought to life.

Gilron shoos Ollie and Ferel out of the room and smiles warmly at me as she unfolds the material. I don't look and let her dress me, enjoying the very familiar almost maternal nature of this moment. Gilron has become like a mother to me, and the dressing of a bride before her wedding has always been completed by the elleth's mother. When I asked Gilron to do this for me, both she and I wept and embraced for a very long time. She told me I would always be a daughter to her, and that I would always have a family and a place to come to escape the daily demands of this world. Now actually having Gilron dress me, I feel very emotional, and have to restrain the renegade tears that threaten to slip through on numerous occasions. I am so incredibly joyous, that I feel like my heart is swelling to twice the size it should be. I could never in my wildest dreams imagine the day that I would find such love, there will never be enough words to express my gratitude.

"There," Gilron smiles through tear rimmed eyes and cups my face in her hands. "You are ready."

Slowly, she turns me to face the mirror, and comes to stand behind me as she clasps my shoulders in her hands. I don't instantly recognise the elf before me; she seems to glow with a radiant light that is not the work of lamp light or fancy skin powders. I can barely believe it is me, but I recognize my wide grey eyes as they sparkle with anticipation and happy tears.

"Gilron you are an artist," I whisper softly and turn my head to smile at her.

"No child, you are the artist, I just followed your instructions," she chuckles softly and tucks a loose strand of my hair behind my ear. "Still it is not the exceptional dress, but the ethereal grace of the elleth that wears it, that makes it so beautiful. Clara my darling child I have never seen such a beautiful bride. Even Luthien herself could not match your beauty!"

"You lie!" I tease as I playfully prod her.

"Well, I am quite biased, but I am sure there is one that would whole heartedly agree with me," Gilron adds with a meaningful look, and then leaves me to observe my reflection some more.

The dress would appear white at first glance, but it is actually the palest of mint green, so light it is merely a hint of colour. The soft silky material curves to my body, so that the gown moves fluidly with every twist and turn I make. The sleeves are long and made of lightest of tissue-y type material and connect with the dress to form a trailing train. The hems of these sleeves are covered in the most beautiful stitching of flowers, petals, and snaking ivy. The same sort of design follows the hems and most of the train of the dress, and to these wonderful creations tiny blooms have been fastened. Real flowers that Gilron assures me will bloom in starlight, another little treat for our guests and hopefully my husband. A few of these blooms have been fastened on the front of the dress at my chest, where the more beautifully intricate stitching has been sewn so artfully in place. They are flowers only found in particular glades in Greenwood, the Silvan folk call them; 'Dumloth,' which means 'twilight blossom.' It is a revered flower because these elves very much adore the light of the stars, to wear or carry this bloom is a blessing. The flower itself will glisten ever so gently in the starlight, and will be at its brightest at twilight, when the stars are new and full of life. At this point they are just tiny, insignificant, silvery buds.

Gilron returns to my side a few minutes later to fuss over my unruly hair one last time. I have it long and loose, pinned softly back from my face, but as always, loose strands spring free and tumble about my shoulders. I don't mind this really, because this is me and this is what Thranduil will recognize. The little familiarities about my appearance that make me who I am are keeping me calm, because I am starting to feel quite fluttery and anxious. Instead of a headdress, Gilron fixes little crystals and sparkling gems to my hair, so it appears like I am crowned with stars. This was another idea she and I thought would make me stand out in a more unique way. Technically, I am not a princess yet and I have no family crowns or heirlooms. Gilron describes me as a gift from the Valar, and therefore tonight I should be crowned with light in homage to them.

Once she is satisfied with me, Gilron calls Ollie and Ferel back to help me descend the stairs and make my way to the secret location. Ollie erupts into tears when she sees me, and I end up joining her as we hug and murmur our affections for one another. I haul Ferel and Gilron into the embrace and we all kiss and cuddle each other, until someone clears their throat quite loudly at the entrance to the room. We all turn to regard Torphen as he grins happily at us, with Tauriel perched in his arms; the little elfling sits up unsupported and giggles happily at the sight of her mother.

"We have visitors Naneth, they are requesting an audience with Clara," he tells us and hands a squirming and demanding Tauriel off to her Nana. The elfling buries her face into her mother's shoulder and then peeks up to watch me shyly from underneath big Bambi eyelashes. I smile and wave at her, until she giggles and bashfully hides in Ferel's hair. It still amazes me how fast elflings grow physically in their first year, how they so quickly gain command over their bodies.

"Come, Clara, let us not keep the entire of Greenwood waiting," Gilron chuckles and guides me away from my fun game of peekaboo with the baby.

We all bustle quite excitedly into the living space, all chatter and joyful singing. My heart lifting with anticipation of the night's events, I am not scared or worried. This is the easy part, being with Thranduil and setting our marriage in stone gives me the most wonderful feelings of hopefulness and excitement for the future. I know I will be meeting noble elves, but I will do so with my family by my side and in a happy setting. What I dread is the coronation, but that is tomorrow and, for now, that seems forever away.

"Nana!"

I leap at the sound of that little voice and hurry towards it. I thought he was meant to be with his father... Oh, but I am so glad he isn't!

"Legolas!" I cry happily as I drop to my knees and throw my arms around him to hug him close to me.

"Nana, you are a Maia!" Legolas gasps as he wriggles away from me to behold me with wonder filled eyes. He stretches out his hand to touch the gems in my hair and then runs his hands over the billowy mist like material of my sleeves. "You are beautiful, like the stars," he comments like it is a statement of fact and then hugs me tightly again.

"But not nearly as gorgeous as you, look at you ionneg, so grown up!" I say proudly as I peel him away from me and turn him around to get a better look. He is dressed in fine silvers and deep forest greens. The tunic fits him perfectly and the patterns of the material are little leaves... so fitting. His hair has been successfully tamed and twined back from his face, kept in place by a delicate silver circlet. He is every inch the little Prince, and growing so fast, even with the extended years of elven childhood, I can barely cope with the thought of him getting any bigger than this. I want him to stay this small and perfect forever.

"Indeed my little leaf, your Naneth is truly breath-taking."

My head whips up to that familiar voice as the figure of the King enters the room. Everyone immediately quietens and bows automatically. Everyone, that is, except Torphen, who obviously knew full well who was here. Oropher always emanates all the ancient wisdom and grace that one would expect of his kind. Yet there is always something different about him that sets him apart from even the other Sindar lords, something that is hard to place. Sometimes I would consider that it is the subtle glow to his eyes that make them both like summer skies, or white flame, depending on what mood you catch him in. Today, his eyes are warm and kind, and when I look into them I see the very spirit that found me all those moons ago when I woke up in this life. Slowly, I rise to my feet and duck my head into my chest, before kneeling into a bow.

"Not today Iellig," I hear him say as his fingers cup my chin and he lifts my head to look at him. "'Law lîn síla sui Ithil/ Your Radiance shines like the moon."

I blush deeply at his compliment and bob my head in thanks. This makes him chuckle as he pulls me to him for a warm embrace. I am always a little uneasy every time he shows me such affection, for such displays of love were not things I associated with him. However, as time goes on, I am beginning to realise that Oropher is indeed very giving of himself, and it is the love for his family and his people that stops him from abandoning the crown. I was extremely fortunate to have been found by him and protected by his people. For although we struggled to get to this point of mutual understanding, Oropher has defended me and kept me as one of his own without question. I hope one day I can love like he does.

"Your Majesty," Gilron offers as she comes to kneel by her King. "We were not expecting you, if I had of known I would-"

"Lady Gilron, you have done more than enough just by guiding this wonderful elleth before me," Oropher smiles fondly in answer to the elder elleth. "You have moulded another fine ruler my dear, no doubt easier to tame than my wife?"

"Oh, I would not say that my lord," Gilron replies as she colours slightly. "It has been an honour to serve your family."

"And may you continue to do so," Oropher replies with a knowing look to the Queen's head lady. "You can always return to my home Gilron, Lassiel would have wanted you to stay. Valar know you do enough for us still."

"I will remember this kind gesture my lord," Gilron answers his statement with downcast eyes as he bows once more

"Good, will you give me a moment with Clara please?" he adds cheerily and Gilron quickly ushers everyone out of the house. Leaving me standing rather awkwardly before the King as I begin to twist my hands together in anxiety. What is he going to say now? As if to answer my unspoken question he smiles and takes from the pockets of his exquisite formal robes, a satin pouch.

"There is a tradition among the Noldorian elves that states that the father of the bridegroom bestows upon the bride a gift of a jewel," Oropher explains as he takes my hand in his and empties the contents of the pouch into my palm. "However we are not Noldor, thankfully, so we have no such traditions. Yet, as you know by now my family are far from traditional, and I have grown very fond of you."

I peer down at the object that feels quite weighted in my palm and give a tiny gasp. It is a silver bracelet, the links shaped like the branches of a tree, and the clasps delicate leaves. Fastened to one of these clasps is a very familiar stone, the heart shaped river stone Legolas gave me a lifetime ago. Oropher must have retrieved the stone from my chambers and had it fastened to this bracelet, I had been threatening to have something made out of it for some time now. On the other clasp is a stunning pearl, encased in silver claws. It is a charm bracelet of sorts and it is so beautiful that all I can do is gape at Oropher in bewilderment.

"This bracelet is a gift from me, a reminder of the realm you now serve, and I trust you know to whom the stone belongs," Oropher eyes me with a mock serious look, as he fastens the bracelet to my wrist, and then gently takes the pearl between his thumb and forefinger. "Lassiel came from the sea, but adored the wood, it broke her heart to leave it but her spirit was too wearied by the world. This pearl she kept from her youth, she said she found it on the shores of Arda. Oh, how she would captivate me with her tales of the sea and the west, for I have seen neither. I want you to have it, Clara; I want you to promise that when your days grow old here, you will find the sea and reunite our family once more. Will you make me that promise?"

"Yes, of course," I murmur quietly and bob my head diverting my gaze to the bracelet. The pearl is such an insignificant little thing, but to Oropher it means the world. I cannot for a moment begin to fathom what this means to him. He trusts me to stay by his son's side and keep this family together, when the time comes that he can longer do that. I won't let him down; I will always put my family first.

"Ah, would you listen to me, making a happy affair somber," Oropher gives a half laugh and shakes his head at himself. "Smile Clara, you are too young for such a serious countenance!" He smiles and runs a thumb across my cheek and I grace him with a bright smile in reply. He takes my arm and leads me out of Gilron's home and to the feast which awaits me.

xXx

"I hear water?" I mutter as I unhook my arm from the King's and strain towards, not only the noise of merry elves, but also noise of waterfalls. We haven't travelled that far and I am almost sure I know where I am going. Oropher merely chuckles at my perplexed look as Legolas and I skip ahead of him, getting closer to the party by each step.

I note the trees are now laden with glowing lamps and silken garlands. The forest floor is a golden carpet of fallen leaves, and more keep falling over us in bright colours of oranges, reds and deep purples. There is a sleepy autumn haze to the air and the place smells of the coming winter, but the heat of summer still lingers on long enough to keep the bite from the breeze. Colour is everywhere and in the last bold rays of sunshine, the entire wood appears to flicker like dancing flame. I do know this place, I know these shrubs and tall trees, Thranduil and I still frequent this small and insignificant part of the wood, the part of the wood he first showed me, the day he broke me out of the caves and threw me from the ledge into the pools beneath the waterfalls.

"How very poetic your grace," I giggle as I connect the dots in my mind. "But how did you know that this is the very first place Thranduil ever brought me?"

"Believe it or not, my son and I speak more plainly than he would have you believe," Oropher grins sheepishly and his eyes flicker to the trees behind me for a brief moment. "The festivities are just in the glade beyond the trees, it is tradition for the couple to enter together."

With that said Oropher places a kiss on my brow, retrieves Legolas and disappears into the trees heading towards the voices. I hear the horns play for his arrival and a cheer of welcome by the guests to their gracious host. Everyone is already there at the party, Gilron, Olben and the whole family. All the foreign guests and the representations from the noble houses of Greenwood, the common folk too. I suddenly feel a tad bit nervous... that is a lot of people and a lot of judgmental glances.

"You can always change your mind you know," his familiar voice calls from the shadows of the trees and I try to disguise a smile. "We are already wed in the eyes of the Valar; this is just pomp and ceremony. We could ditch this gathering in favour of some more cliff diving."

"And ruin my pretty dress! No I think I shall stay!" I gasp in mock horror as I turn to face Thranduil. He stands a few feet away from me now, dressed in a quite simplistic but nonetheless elegant long silver robe. The material of the sleeves are folded back to reveal a golden green silk, the inset of his high collar is also the same wonderful shade, maybe just a tad darker. About his throat is quite an intricate looking brooch with a stone of the same golden green tone, and on his brow is the familiar woven willowy circlet. He could be mistaken quite easily for a King in such fine garments. In fact, when I look at him now, I see all the promise of a great ruler.

"Clara," he whispers softly, all traces of humour disappearing from his almost angelic features, and takes the few steps towards me, cupping my face gently in his hands. "You are incredible, like a star that has fallen straight from the heavens."

"Well the stars were my inspiration," I grin triumphantly at his appreciative look. I have the pleasure and the honour of watching his eyes fill with a meaningful and besotted look that is meant only for me. I am clearly the luckiest elleth to have the love of such a worthy elven man as this.

"And you were mine, but you kept this gown a secret," Thranduil teases and pulls my palm to his lips to press a lingering kiss there. The kind of kiss that makes my stomach twist into knots and my heart to start fluttering in anticipation of what will follow. "You are just lucky the colours did not clash."

"When would I ever be so careless," I giggle in response and let him take my arm to lead me towards the waiting guests.

We pass through the trees and I spy the large crowds gathered to behold our vows. I see a large carved table erected in the centre of the glade. Seated at this table are the nobility; the King, his adviser, his lords and their ladies. There is Lord Elrond and Lady Celebrian too, I am delighted to see her. There is Lord Glorfindel and the small representation from the Lindon Realm. There are also two fairer haired nobles, alike in appearance and stance; I assume this to be King Amdir and his son Amroth. Seated with them are Celeborn and an elleth with such queenly presence that she needs no introduction, she undoubtedly outshines her husband and without even trying commands the attention of all. She is the Lady Galadriel, and I am lost for words to describe her. She is a contrast between feminine beauty and great strength, I doubt even the most gifted of warriors could challenge her.

"You are no different from them, Clara," Thranduil tells me in a soft voice as my anxiety builds, and I grip his arm more tightly. "In fact some may call you much greater than them, for you were not born, you were made. The Valar have blessed you."

"Are you nervous?" I ask and blink up at him with a small timid smile.

"Not as long as I have you with me," he replies and we share one last soft kiss before we enter the glade. The horns and pipes signifying our presence and the whole gathering stand to welcome us.

A path is made for us and the civilians drop flowers and petals at our feet as we approach the King's table. Voices fill the air to sing us songs in the tradition of the woodland people, the acoustics a little freer and more raw than more cultured societies. To me, however, it is beautiful and it instantly calms me, giving me confidence and filling me with pride. We reach the grand table, dripping with autumn fruits and delicious bouquets. Raffyn comes to stand facing us, wearing a joyful look that is something I am not used to seeing on the usually stoic elf lord. As the King's chief advisor he also holds the title of law keeper, and presides over most elven ceremonies and councils, in particular, marriage among the noble elves. It would seem right that he would oversee our vows, instead of someone we did not know or trust. Though Raffyn is often cool and distant, he is a good elf and Oropher's closest friend. It pleases him that Thranduil and I have found each other, and proved our nay-sayers wrong, including even him.

Oropher stands and welcomes his guests, speaking words that don't really reach my ears, because I am completely lost in Thranduil's gaze. My eyes have not left his and his grip is strong and sure on my hand, I cannot falter now. Eventually, I am prompted to face Thranduil and take his hands in mine, and I note how mine tremble ever so slightly, I was never very good with disguising my nervousness. Thranduil knows this and with a slight smirk playing on his lips, he grips them tighter, using his thumb to caress the backs of my hands. I focus on this, on his completely serene presence as it settles my spirit.

Raffyn wraps a branch of ivy around our forearms, connecting us together, an outward symbol of our bond and an old Silvan gesture. He explains this to our foreign guests, who watch on intently and with curious eyes. Every so often my eyes sweep the crowd and those seated at the table, trying to grasp what it is they see. Do they see a good match for a Prince? Do they see an elf, or something else, something different, and is that a good thing or bad thing? It is only when my eyes fall on Oliel and Gilron, that I stop my bizarre questions. Gilron is openly crying and clutching her daughter with the widest of smiles on her face, whilst my dearest Ollie, my sister and my closest confidant, clutches her chest and gives me that ecstatic grin that always makes me reciprocate her level of happiness.

"Smile," she mouths to me and I blink robotically. Oh, shoot! I have been so caught up in trying to appear elegant and courtly, that I have yet to crack a proper smile.

This is the happiest moment of my life and by looking at me you would think I was terrified. At this thought, I start to chuckle and Thranduil actually looks as if he is about to keel over with relief. Oh, who cares what all the nobility think! I am here with my wonderful mate, my surrogate family and of course the woodland people who have embraced me so warmly. I give myself a little shake and clutch Thranduil's hands tighter with my own, giving him an ecstatic look and gracing my guests with the same level of enthusiasm. This obviously does the trick and I hear our audience chuckle or whisper approvingly at the spectacle.

"As our law dictates," Raffyn begins in a clear voice as he addresses the crowd. "The Father of the Bridegroom and the Mother of the Bride must come forward to bless this marriage. May they do so now, with no malice or ill intent in their hearts for this union?"

Oropher stands, and in a gesture that surprises me, he lifts Legolas into his arms and comes to join us. Gilron wipes the tears from her eyes and tidies herself before she steps forward, coming to stand close by me. Raffyn gestures for Gilron to speak first, and so she places her hand over our ivy bound hands. She glances first to Thranduil and touches his cheek fondly, and then turns to me and repeats the same maternal gesture. She takes a settling breath to clear the tears from her voice and states the age old words, which she helped me memorize, in case I ever should have a daughter that I must relinquish to another;

"Lasto ial Clara ar Thranduil's, ar elio din Eru."/ May Varda Star-kindler hear Clara and Thranduil's calls, and may Eru the Father of All bless them.

Gilron steps aside and allows Oropher to come forward with Legolas, our son's eyes are literally sparkling with excitement, as his Grandfather helpfully allows him to lean forward to place his little hand over ours. Oropher does the same, and before he begins, addresses the confused questions on our guest's faces;

"There is another's blessing who is equally as important to this union, and I am willing to bend the rules of tradition to allow my Grandson his voice," Oropher answers quite plainly, and I could sing for joy. Yes, all should see how we are a unit now, and that this is a little more than just a marriage of lovers, but a union of a family. With a knowing smile to both Thranduil and I, Oropher speaks the father's blessing and Legolas repeats it;

"Tiro Thranduil ar Clara Aran Einior, ar elio din Eru."/ May Manwë Lord of Wind watch over Thranduil and Clara, and may Eru the Father of All bless them.

I try my hardest to blink back my tears of joy, as Raffyn gives our union rings to us and I just about manage to hold it together as Thranduil slips mine onto my finger. I barely hear Oropher officially introduce us to the gathering as husband and wife, because Thranduil and I are far too busy grinning like complete fools at each other. He runs his hands through my hair and I clasp his face in my hands, and before anyone can stop us we kiss. There is much cheering and applauding, but it is all in the distance as Thranduil wraps his arms tighter around my waist and pulls upwards and closer to him. I wrap my arms around his neck, and continue to kiss him with soft fluttery kisses, as we both giggle like love-struck youths and mutter endearments to each other.

Eventually, Oropher clears his throat and reluctantly Thranduil places me back on the ground. Legolas pulls away from his Grandfather and throws himself into my arms, then happily allows his Adar to pull him up into his arms. We are turned to face our guests and receive many compliments and blessings as we weave through our crowd of well-wishers. I am embraced and kissed by strangers and familiar faces alike, until we make it back to the King's table, so the elven nobility can greet us officially. Glorfindel finds us first with the Lindon elves, who each embrace us and give us a letter from their King detailing his happiness in our union. Celebrian is next to throw her arms around me and praise my beauty, she fusses over Legolas and warns Thranduil to care for me or she will personally see to his demise. Lord Elrond attempts to laugh off his spirited wife's accusations, but Thranduil and I are far too deliriously happy to care what is being said.

King Amdir follows next with his son and makes haughty jibes with Thranduil, that if Amroth saw me first I would have been his. There are several minutes of banter between the Sindar Princes, and I just nod and pretend to be interested in their commentaries of one another. Apparently Amroth has gotten fat and Thranduil uglier... charming bunch really. I note a smaller person in their midst, that peeks up from behind the huddle of Lorien elves; a blond head of a little elfing, who looks to be around the same age as Legolas, if not slightly older.

"Hello little one," I chirp at the child who has been staring intently at me for several minutes. He blushes and ducks behind Amdir again.

"Ai! Haldir I thought I warned you to go sit with your Naneth!" the Lorien King groans and shakes his head disapprovingly at the youngster. "Forgive me Lady Clara, the boy is the son of my cousin who has traveled with us today. He is terribly inquisitive and does not know when to keep his nose out of trouble."

"It's fine," I chuckle as I kneel down and beckon for Legolas to come join me. "I know another equally mischievous elfling," I comment with a smirk. Haldir peers around his King again and stares intently at Legolas and I with a serious expression. Oh, he is such a sombre child, it makes sense if this is the same Haldir that will command the Galadhrim army. He steps forward and bows quite gracefully for my benefit and I bob my head in acknowledgment trying my best to keep the glee from my amused eyes.

"You are very pretty," Haldir comments and Legolas narrows his eyes.

"My Nana is beautiful not just pretty!" he corrects the other elfling quite indignantly. Haldir's eyes widen at the shock of being told off by his peer, obviously not used to being corrected the child frowns at Legolas unhappily.

"Now now boys," I scold playfully and tap Legolas on the nose. "Legolas, why don't you show Haldir around, I am sure he is bored surrounded by all these dull adults." Legolas titters at the insinuation but Haldir barely cracks a smile, it worries me how in control of his emotions he appears to be. Although... maybe it should worry me how lax Legolas is with his. With a nod, my son bounces up to his newly assigned playmate and punches him quite hard on the arm.

"Tag you're it!" he cries excitedly and then frowns when Haldir continues to stare in confusion. "You have to chase me?" Legolas elaborates then sighs in exasperation. "Nana he doesn't know tag!"

"Then teach him," I encourage as Haldir blinks at Legolas with a perplexed expression. "It's okay, Haldir, it is a game you must chase your opponent until you catch them."

"What do I do when I catch him?" Haldir asks innocently.

"Then I have to chase you," Legolas replies and practically face palms himself. Oh dear... I am rubbing off on him. "But I would not worry about it Haldir, no one ever catches me, I am too fast."

"I doubt it," Haldir snorts and looks rather smug. "I bet I could catch you in less than five seconds."

"I bet you couldn't!" Legolas retaliates quite forcibly and eyes Haldir with a competitive look, before shooting off like an arrow into the crowd. Haldir scowls at the empty space for a moment before taking off quite determinedly after him. It is all I can try to do to not snort with laughter, that was too adorable... Although, I wouldn't wager on them being best friends. Maybe... friendly competitors?

"Well that was very well managed, my dear," a feminine voice that is entirely unfamiliar, yet unmistakable, speaks and I immediately come to my feet. True enough, the lady Galadriel stands before me, with her husband at her side, who gives me an appreciative nod. It takes me a moment before I remember to curtsy and the ethereal Lady lets out an amused peal of laughter.

"You are very well mannered young one," she chimes and then graces me with an affectionate smile. "My daughter and her husband have been singing your praises since they met you. Celebrian tells me you are a rare beauty; I see she was telling the truth."

"You are too kind my lady," I murmur and blush deeply at her complements.

"May I?" Galadriel asks as she gestures for my hand, which I freely give. She holds my hand tightly and seems to peer into my eyes, captivating me with her own sparkling grey orbs that are almost mystical. They seem ancient compared to the rest of her youthful appearance and I am instantly entranced. I don't know what she sees there but she eventually drops my hand and smiles knowingly at me before turning her gaze to Thranduil.

"Your young wife is a rarity my lord," Galadriel replies in her whispering voice. "Her fae is beautiful, a true gift to behold." Thranduil nods solemnly in understanding, and the lady of light turns to me again to give her final parting. "I look forward to seeing what becomes of you Clara, what gifts you will bestow on our people. There is no blessing I can give which could match that which the great Illuvator has already given to you my dear, I only wish for you both a long and joyous life."

"Thank you," I say again as I curtsy and Thranduil bows his head in respect. Celeborn nods his agreements and passes on with his wife. Truly, it feels like you are speaking with an ancient being when Galadriel holds you in her presence, I sort of feel a little shell shocked. I glance to Thranduil who nods in agreement to the perplexed look on my face, though there are often quarrels between his Father and Celeborn and his wife. One cannot deny her power, she is exquisite and her support of our union and even of me is flattering beyond words.

We finish up greeting and engaging with our guests, and then eventually get stuck into the divine feast. A feast that is so amazingly scrumptious and well thought out that it could only be Ollie who was behind the whole extravaganza. Half way through the night, Thranduil raises a glass to his dear friend's tireless efforts at orchestrating this beautiful affair, and Ollie glows several shades of scarlet before darting behind Aradan. We laugh and talk freely with everyone, as the wine begins to flow pointed jokes begin about last night's shameful endeavors. Thranduil and Aradan are practically pink when the rumour of their little tryst gets around the table, but it is all laughed off. All of us have plenty to be embarrassed about, and it isn't long until one elf pipes up and tells everyone that Ollie and I were cuddling in the clearing too. More laughter and silly tales of love won and lost begins, until we are interrupted by two haggard guards holding two quibbling elflings.

"Your highness," the guard begins and wrestles with a defiant Legolas, who is threatening to poke Haldir's eyeballs out. "Your son and the Lorien boy were caught brawling; they knocked over several tables and chairs in their energetic fight."

"Oh, for the love of the Valar," Thranduil groans and slides down his chair, dropping his head into his hand, whilst I shake my head very disapprovingly at our son.

"He started it!" Legolas snaps and points accusingly at Haldir. "He said I was too small and thin to fight! And Ada you always taught me to punch someone back if they hit me first!" Haldir looks completely abashed at the suggestion that he hit Legolas first and the two start arguing again.

"Oh, you did, did you?" Oropher smirks over his wine glass to his suddenly guilty looking son.

"I did not!" Thranduil defends and sits up straighter, then cringes a little; "Well... those were not my exact words, he is young and taking them out of context." Thranduil stops when I arc a disbelieving eyebrow at him and then flusters slightly. "Legolas! Come with me, now!"

"But Ada!" Legolas whines as his father orders him to a quieter part of the party so he can have a stern talking to.

What I assume as Haldir's parent's, come and retrieve their scowling son, and mew out many apologies to me which I just laugh off, boys will be boys. However, I make a mental note to have a stern discussion with Legolas about retaliation and choosing when is a good time to hit back and when isn't, though I secretly hope he got a good dig in if Haldir did hit him first. When Thranduil returns, both elfling's apologize rather reluctantly to one another, and both are packed off to bed. Oropher dismisses himself to return home with his Grandson, along with some of the elder elves. I assume they will go reminisce over old war tales and drink some more exquisitely aged wine, leaving us youngsters to dance the night away to the merry tunes and delightful company. It truly has been an uneventful and colourful night.

Exactly what I wanted.

xXx

After much dancing, with everyone and anyone, I eventually tire of the festivities and leave my husband to entertain what is left of our guests as I go for a meander around the woods. I find myself drifting to the pools of water where Thranduil tried to drown me and kink up with laughter at the memory. My eyes spy the ledge tucked away high above me, and I suddenly wish to see the view and the stars better. It is not easy traipsing the rocks in my beautiful gown, but my gymnastic abilities have greatly improved since the last time I tried to do this. There is, of course, an easier route to the ledge which I take and chuckle at how Thranduil refused to show me this the first time we were here. It takes me a little longer than expected but I reach my destination, and let out a sigh of contentment as I behold the familiar sight.

Every time I come here I think of Thranduil because this is our secret little hideaway, filled with memories of just us. Like when he taught me to hear the trees, and when he proposed to me after the dramatic events of the last mid-winter feast. It is amazing how much has changed since then, how much I have changed. I drift to the edge of rock and stare up at the night sky, inhaling the fresh night air and memorizing the patterns of the stars above me. Every time I see the stars I think of the music that brought me back to life, even now I fancy I can hear it. Silently I pray my thanks to Eru, and for once I don't try and question why I am here or what my purpose is. Instead I just accept it and am at peace with it. Tomorrow I will be crowned Princess of this realm and will have a whole new set of fears and worries, but if I had the strength to get this far then I know I will overcome the rest, whatever the rest may be.

I spend such a long time watching the skies, wondering, daydreaming, because I am so easily distracted. I note that the crowds have dispersed from the glade in the distance, the lanterns grow dim and the fires turn to embers. It must be late and he'll be looking for me, I can feel how he wants me close through our bond, how it unsettles him to not be with me. I probably should have stayed but sometimes I just crave the peace and quiet. If truth be told, I want him to come to me and if he knows me half as well as he thinks he does, then he'll know why.

"How did I know you would be here?"

I hide a smirk as I turn to face Thranduil as he stands halfway across the narrow rock that connects the ledge to the waterfalls. I just roll my eyes and return to watching the sky above me, smiling inwardly as I eventually feel his arms wrap around my middle and pull me against him. I sigh contentedly as he presses his lips to the bare skin of shoulder, and then to my jaw, and then my temple;

"Did everyone enjoy the feast?" I ask with a light tone, feigning disinterest in his touch.

"As far as I am aware," he murmurs as he snakes his hands down my arms and entwines my fingers with his. "But I really could care less what they think, what matters is your opinion?"

"It was lovely," I answer earnestly and twist my head around to rest my forehead to his cheek. "Very elegant and proper, and now they all know who I am there is no getting rid of me."

"Do not even joke about such things," Thranduil growls and buries his face in my neck. I giggle at his ticklish kisses, but he stops to run his hands through my hair and my gown again. "Do you know what they were calling you tonight?" I shake my head and I can almost feel him radiate pride as he answers me; "They called you Eldis, it means star bride, it is an honourable name."

"It is just because of my dress," I tease and shake my head, but shiver when Thranduil starts to undo the buttons that run the length of the back of the gown. He brushes my hair out of the way and slowly drags kisses across the back of my neck and my shoulders.

"It is not just the dress Clara," he sighs in my ear as he finishes undoing the last button.

He barely has to touch me and I feel like I am on fire. I twist around in his arms and claim his lips with mine, he gasps loudly in response as we stagger back towards the shadows.

xXx

In the aftermath of our union under stars, we lie sprawled on soft grass together. I enjoy the sound of his heart thrumming, as I listen with my head on his chest. It is an intimate sound, a sound that reminds me of life, and the promise of our lives pledged to each other. We are the same spirit now, entwined and bonded so completely that our very heartbeats , our life fire, is shared. The thought is both frightening and profound for a once mortal girl, but I can honestly say I have never felt so sure of something before in my whole existence.

"I love you so much, my handsome husband" I murmur with a joyful undertone to my voice, and he smiles so perfectly for me.

Thranduil places his arm behind his head and lazily twirls a lock of my now disarray hair. He studies me carefully for a moment, touching the shimmering blooms on my gown, that are our only light, and then holds my gaze with those astonishing eyes;

"As I adore you, my captivating Eldis, my beautiful wife. I will love you always."

***********************************A/N: Tissues...I neeeed tissues! I love a good wedding. So what did you think?

Art - from Pinterest and tumblr - no artist listed. If you happen to know who it is, please let me know, their stuff is beautiful!

Also for any of you attempting to write wedding scenes, or are just downright curious. This website;http://www.realelvish.net/wedding_vows.phpIs a hive of in-depth knowledge and correct language. Granted the wedding customs listed are primarily Noldor, but I supposed actual blessings of the Valar wouldn't change much between races. It also has archives on names (even in Silvan). It's a great resource for fellow Tolkien writers.

Thank as always to the voters, comments, and those adding the story to their libraries. One last chapter & Epilogue to go...eeeppp.