Third Age, 2510

The songs and the storytelling would continue long into the night. Maidens with ribbons in their hair danced before their mistress and children brought flowers to set upon Celebrían's lap. The hours passed merrily enough, but Elrond's heart was heavy. He held his beloved's hand and gained strength and consolation from his daughter's fingers pressed against his ankle. He glanced now and again at Celebrían's face, her softly smiling lips and her empty eyes, and tried not to close his eyes. Whenever he did, he slid back into the past.