Third Age, 249

A shriek of delight followed by raucous laughter floated across the meadows, and Celebrían exchanged a merry and knowing smile with her husband.

Sure enough, a little figure in a bright yellow tunic embroidered with roses in brilliant red came bounding through the grasses and the cornflowers, bare feet leaping and dark braids flying. A squeal escaped the child's lips as she quickened her pace and sprung like a panther into her father's arms, twining her arms about his neck and planting tender kisses on his cheeks.

'Atarinya!' she exclaimed, still laughing. 'They are chasing me! They will tickle me! It is so naught of them!'

With twin war-whoops and a cry of 'Thither she flies!' two lanky young elves bolted into view. Seeing their quarry in Elrond's arms, they let out credible snarls of frustration.

'Well!' Elladan exclaimed, addressing Arwen. 'If you will not submit to us and our tickling...'

'Then we shall take your mother captive!' Elrohir declared enthusiastically.

'And tickle HER!'

Celebrían yelped in surprise as they scooped her into their arms and proceeded to keep their word. Arwen's laughter redoubled. 'Atarinya!' she cried. 'I want to help! Let me help!'

Cradling his tiny treasure in his arms, Elrond stepped forward so that she could join in the game.