Weddings

The Allies lingered a few days in Ithilien welcomed warmly by the elves. There was much celebration in the wood in welcome of little Ataralasse, Legolas and Skye's daughter. But Aragorn made a private farewell to his friend early the next morning before heading down to the docks.

"It pleases me to see you so happy, my friend. How is your wife recovering? The healer said it was a very difficult delivery," Aragorn asked.

"She is weary, but she's going to be fine after a little rest. I don't expect to see her dancing for at least a week, but when she looks at our daughter, her eyes dance brightly. I never thought it was possible for her to become more beautiful…" Legolas said wistfully.

Aragorn chuckled, "Yes, I know what you mean, and I would stay and celebrate with you, but my heart aches to see my own beauty. I will visit you soon, with the rest of the family. They will be anxious to greet Ataralasse."

Legolas smiled as he sighed, "Go home, my friend, I will look forward to your visit."

Aragorn gave his friend a hug, mounted up and rode down the path. After everything he'd seen through Godwin's campaign to regain Rhûn, he was feeling a little down. The adventure was over, and though he was happy to have peace, court life seemed like a dull substitute for the glory of a just battle. But then he thought of Arwen, and a sappy grin crossed his face. There were other kinds of excitement he could think of to relieve the monotony. He hoped the wind was in his favor today. He couldn't wait to get home.

The reception in Minas Tirith was grand with people lining the streets to welcome their victorious heroes home. A future of peace between all men brought a renewed excitement to the land. Eldarion met his father at the gates and rode up to the keep with him. It seemed to be an impromptu parade, and they chatted lightly as they waved to the crowd.

"You're looking well, father," Eldarion said.

"I'm feeling well," Aragorn replied. "Where is your mother?"

"She is awaiting you most anxiously with your grandchildren in the hall. How is your nephew?"

"The crown fits better than I had hoped, and my expectations were quite high," then Aragorn turned and smiled at his son. "I believe you will easily match him when your hour comes."

Eldarion shrugged at the praise and returned his attention to the crowd before he finally acknowledged the comment, "No rush."

Soon they reached the courtyard and after passing the white tree, Aragorn leapt from his horse and took the stairs three at a time. At the top, he was greeted by the fairest doorkeeper he'd ever seen. Arwen stepped aside for him to enter, but he just pulled her into his arms.

"No more campaigns will take me from you," he said softly in her ear, "We have earned this time of peace many times over. From this moment on, only family visits will lure me from my home, and then only if you accompany me."

Arwen smiled, "I missed you too."

Eldarion filed past his parents and joined his family in the hall, "Grandfather will see us all later," he said loud enough for his father to hear, "He needs to spend some time with grandmother right now." And with that, he gathered his wife and children and made a hasty exit. The King was home, and all was right with the realm again. He really was in no hurry to wear a crown. It fit too well upon his father's brow.

Full moon, traditional day of celebration for Easterlings, and moonrise was a special hour. Feasting and merriment in Hergrovine was especially grand this night of the Soldier's Feast. The gathering was far too large for the palace hall; instead, the square had been set up to accommodate the crowd. It was fitting that they rejoice under the light of the moon on such an occasion. The food had been served, and as the moon neared its zenith, the moment had come for weddings. Godwin had rehearsed his part in the ceremony in his study for days, but Wilhelm assured him that his part was really quite simple. Godwin stood and conversations quieted.

"I believe we have a few soldiers wishing to be wed this night…" he said casually, though he wore a big smile. Those gathered cheered and he waited for them to quiet again. "The land has had its freedom and joy restored by the bravery of its young men. Peace is the business of the future, and rebuilding Rhûn will start in the homes of its people. Will all the soldiers approach with their brides?"

They came from all over the square, all dressed in their finest with beautiful young ladies on their arms. Godwin was pleased to see them all, but most especially with those who had been close to him; Brock and Leyna, Shadow and Daria, Talon and Delyth, Berelad and Anya… the first servant he had met in the palace. It had taken a while for Berelad to win her heart, but they seemed wrapped in bliss this night. There were many others gathered, and because of this, it was to be a group wedding, in the interest of time.

"The moon is high; the hour is nigh, Love shines brighter than the pale moonlight. By standing here, each man is pledging his life to his lady, each lady, by standing with him, receives his pledge and returns one of her own. All of Hergrovine is here to witness this joyous occasion. With a kiss, you are all wed!" Godwin smiled with the last, and each soldier kissed his bride. The resounding cheers were almost deafening. Godwin had to wait several minutes before he could speak again.

"Oh, and by the by, there are sweets and wine to be served," he paused and glanced at all the starry eyed couples before continuing, "for those who wish to remain…" Zalaya was certain she saw him wink, and she giggled as some thirty young men hoisted their brides into their arms and took off in different directions, heading for their new homes. The crowd once again erupted in cheers and laughter.

"Well, that's alright, more dessert for us…" Godwin said lightly as he raised a glass. "To love!"

Everyone echoed his toast, and he turned to Zalaya and smiled warmly, "To my love," he said softly to her and then drank.

Zalaya blushed as she raised her glass, "Silly Ranger," she whispered, and drank before echoing the toast, "To love."

Months had passed since the Soldier's Feast. Godwin and Zalaya's courtship had brought them very close. The hurts of war were healing slowly among the people, and Rhûn's outlook was more than bright with their new King in charge. Hergrovine rapidly became a grand bustle of activity. Without the dark trade of slavery to draw people to the markets many old traditional trades resurfaced. The skilled tanners once again turned out fine leather goods and furs. Weavers returned to their looms, bakers, cobblers, carpenters and tailors all created a new draw to the city. Ships traveling the Rhûn Sea brought trade goods and fine wares instead of slaves. Godwin was pleased with the transformation even as he repaired the damage to the walls. Throughout the city, he saw to it that everyone's homes and stores were repaired. In place of the auction house and block he oversaw the creation of a public garden. The city park was named Liberty Garden, and all were welcome to enjoy it.

Outside the city was another matter altogether. Many villages and farms had suffered during the long years of war. Godwin could not remain in the capital to court his betrothed to the negligence of his station. He needed to make a formal tour of his lands to see what could be done to restore it. He made preparations for the journey, and none of them included provision for his betrothed. He would be gone very nearly until the appointed time of their wedding feast. He didn't wish her to be troubled by affairs of state at such a time. He simply hadn't figured out how to tell her yet.

But Zalaya didn't need to be told she was not invited, she already knew. She had her own concerns about a homeland she had considered lost to her from the day she met Godwin. Even as they grew closer, and spoke of details concerning an approaching wedding feast, her thoughts were on Forodwaith. The chief was dead and she realized, as isolated as the Lossoth people were, they probably didn't even know. Despite his faults,Tragarz had been her guardian, her people's leader. Upon reflection, she felt a tinge of guilt at turning her back on people she loved. If Godwin was going to be busy with his people on this journey, perhaps she should take this time to make things right. It was time she returned to the north, but how was she going to tell him? Would he think she was leaving him?

As the day of his departure approached, she finally got up the courage to broach the subject at dinner.

"How long will this tour take you from me?" she asked.

"At the least, two months, possibly three," Godwin said.

"Then I will take a journey of my own," Zalaya informed him.

Godwin cringed inwardly as he turned to face her. He already knew there was no talking her out of leaving. "I had hoped to leave you here in my stead."

"I am not your wife yet which leaves me no authority here. I would be little more than a prisoner in this palace. I will return when you do," she said. "I am not ready to sit idle buried in stone."

"This is hardly the refuge, Zalaya," Godwin said, a little insulted by the obvious comparison.

"You could take me with you then," she offered.

"Not this time, not until we are married. It would be too difficult to maintain our honorable courtship under such conditions."

Zalaya frowned, "I see."

"Where are you going?" Godwin asked, but he already suspected she was going to see Skrug.

"Skrug will come and retrieve me; I need to return to Forodwaith. Without Tragarz, I fear it has been left in turmoil. I want to be sure that my homeland will be alright," she said with a hint of concern in her voice.

Godwin had not expected that at all. "Is that a good idea? Will you not be in danger there?"

Zalaya sighed, "You want the best for your people at whatever the cost. I feel the same about mine. The council will not even know of Tragarz' death, and whatever orders he left behind, I must nullify. He was not in his right mind. They will not elect a new Chief until they know he is gone."

"Are you not in line to rule? Will they ask you to stay?" Godwin pressed, unnerved by the thought.

"No, Morzethu never rule. I expect them to urge me to leave quickly," Zalaya said sadly. "Old superstitions live on. When they see Skrug… well, who knows? But they deserve to be told the truth. I trust the old ones to make whatever decisions are best for the tribe."

Godwin sighed, "You amaze me, Zalaya, and wound me. This is the first I have heard of this, but despite your failure to confide in me, I respect your wishes. Return and heal the rift between you and your people. I will do the same here. When we return, perhaps you will find the time to spend with me."

Zalaya blushed, "I am sorry I have not spoken of this. The decision was made hastily. My conscience demands this journey."

"I sometimes forget that you hold responsibilities in your own land, and it was I that took you from them," he said with a smile. "When are you leaving?"

"As soon as Skrug answers my call," Zalaya said, "tonight, or tomorrow night."

Godwin nodded, and they finished their meal quietly. Neither wanted to say goodbye, or think about their parting. Unsettled affairs weighed heavily upon both of them, and ignoring their obligations was not possible. When Godwin walked her to the entrance to the east wing, he hung his head and sighed.

"You weren't going to plan a farewell, were you? You will just be gone one morning when I rise," he said, not needing her to confirm it. "Take care of yourself, my fair northern princess, and return to me soon. Don't make me come after you."

Zalaya saw the slight smile at his warning words but didn't doubt that he would if she failed to return on time. "Do not worry over me, Ranger. Do you think I would miss my own wedding?"

Godwin gazed into her beautiful eyes, "Not if you had a choice," he whispered. He couldn't help it; he was going to worry about her until she was safely in his arms again.

"As long as I have the ring, nothing can harm me," she reassured him. "Skrug would not let me miss the wedding, he is anxious to see me start my own brood."

Godwin laughed and kissed her hand, "So am I, Zalaya, so am I."

In Ithilien a small gathering of Rangers were dressed in their finest. One of their own was taking a bride, and it was everything Shaalth could do to keep from laughing at his nerves. Kiirar was pacing, waiting for Cilmo to escort his bride down the stairs.

"I see Kiirar has finally bowed to fashion," Shaalth finally said to Tinechor.

Kiirar gave him a warning glance, but his expression lightened when he saw the affectionate mirth on his face. He could not refute his own words thrown back at him. "Some fashions are good," he paused and glanced back up to the tree house railing, "What is taking so long?"

Anwaner shrugged, "It's not like a traditional wedding, so I have no idea. If we were back in our eastern wood, all you would have had to do is steal her away…"

Kiirar just bit his lip to stifle the laugh. That was the reason they were still waiting. Cilmo had no intention of giving Luna to him. He expected Kiirar to come up and demand her, or sneak in and take her. He blushed and shook his head, "I believe I will honor our customs today." He strolled over to his horse and took a rope from his saddlebag. With exceptional skill he tossed a line up over a branch and secured it to his saddle. "Shaalth, will you hold the reins a moment?"

Shaalth nodded, and held the horse steady as Kiirar ascended the rope and leapt onto the high balcony. The Rangers waited and in only moments, they heard Luna giggling from above.

Luna saw the rope fly up and over the branch and just bit her lip, glancing back at the archway leading into the house. Was this why Cilmo had told her to wait out here? She stared at the rope as it was pulled taut, and then Kiirar's face appeared just beyond the railing and Luna couldn't help giggling.

"What are you doing?" she whispered.

"I am kidnapping my bride," Kiirar informed her formally, despite the grin on his face. "Come along quietly now."

Luna's hand covered her mouth in surprise; it seemed almost scandalous, "Won't Cilmo be angry with you?"

Kiirar could see past her into the house, and Cilmo was standing there with Froderick, smiling. "Somehow, I think he will find it in his heart to forgive us." And with that, he grabbed her, lifting her over the railing onto his shoulder and skillfully descended. Her light gasp of surprise was the only hint of protest she gave.

Kiirar was sliding down the rope with his bride slung over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. Tinechor held the rope steady, and was prepared to offer assistance, but Kiirar didn't need it.

"Kiirar, you Avari villain!" Ally shouted from above. She apparently wasn't aware of Avari customs…

Kiirar untied the rope from the saddle, lifted Luna onto his horse and leapt up behind her. "Thank you for coming to the wedding… Tell Cilmo thank you, after you detain him a little while." And with that, he gave his horse a kick and tore off into the wood at a gallop.

Tinechor sighed, "She was the happiest looking kidnap victim I've ever seen."

Shaalth chuckled, "You always did get sentimental at weddings."

Allassante stormed down the stairs, her eyes shooting daggers at the Rangers gathered around her tree. "Do you have any idea how much food I made for her wedding feast?"

Anwaner sighed, trying desperately to call up an expression of remorse, "Well, we're still here, and we're all hungry…"

Cilmo leaned over the railing from above and gave his Rangers a wink. "Ally, give over… Avari weddings aren't like ours was. Invite them in; I'll pretend to be angry tomorrow when we pay them the customary family visit… late tomorrow."

Allassante put her hands on her hips and tried desperately to maintain her bluster, but was already failing. "You heard your captain, go upstairs and eat." She had embraced these eastern elves long ago, but occasionally their customs caught her off guard. She was never able to stay angry for very long, but sometimes she tried.

Cilmo came down to meet her on the stairs and offered her his arm.

"I blame you for this," she said firmly.

"I did not climb up and take her away," he said.

"No, you just told her to go wait on the balcony and then hovered in my kitchen for an hour," she said with a frown.

Cilmo smiled, "They won't go hungry. I sent over a nice basket a little while ago."

Ally sighed, "You could have warned me."

Cilmo chuckled, "Where's the fun in that?"

Zalaya looked over her things, neatly laid out on her bed. She had sent away her maids, not wishing to explain her actions to them. She took off her gown and hung in neatly in her wardrobe, then she hung up her shift and stowed her slippers. All the symbols of femininity her ranger had grown to appreciate in her were little more than fabric. She turned back to the bed and started dressing in Forodwaith leather, the clothing of a huntress, the symbol of the wild within her. She released her hair form the elaborate decorative binding her maid skillfully created for her each morning. It was always meant to hang free to be caressed by the wind. Her weapons too were here and she put them on, and gathered her furs and a small bag and slipped out of her room and down the hall. Her soft leather boots made no sound in the hall, but a voice halted her before she could take the stairs to the tower.

"What are you doing?" Grayson demanded when he saw her. He'd come to see Godwin and never expected to see her dressed like this again.

"Godwin knows of this, there is no deception here," she answered quietly.

Grayson sighed as he looked at the tower stairs. "Just going for a dragon ride, my lady?"

Zalaya frowned, but remained polite, "Ask your King when you see him, and tell him I will be home before he is. Good journey, captain."

Grayson watched in horror as she disappeared into the darkness of the stairwell. There was only one thing that could come of her going anywhere dressed like that, trouble. He turned and stalked down the hall in search of Godwin. Peace was too precious; he wanted to know what was going on in this palace. He reached the study, and found Godwin pouring over maps… of Arnor.

"Where is she going?" Grayson asked.

"Home to her people," Godwin said flatly.

Grayson sat down and stared at the map Godwin was studying, "And you allowed it?"

"I have no authority to stop her, and no heart to ask her to ignore her responsibilities there. Leave it alone, Grayson," Godwin warned.

"She said she'd be home before you, but I have to wonder if she was referring to here… or Forodwaith."

Godwin glared at his old teacher but had no retort for such an accusation. All he could manage to say was, "I love and trust her. She will return to me."

Grayson nodded, "I'm sure you're right. Forgive me."

Godwin didn't answer; he just looked at the northern edge of the Arnor map. Little of Forodwaith had even been recorded in maps so he had nothing tangible to look at. He knew she was already gone, and it was breaking his heart. He abruptly rolled up the map and sat back in his chair.

"Is everything ready for our tour?" Godwin asked, making an obvious shift in the subject.

"Yes, all is prepared," Grayson answered formally.

"I want to leave tomorrow," Godwin said.

Grayson stood, "I'll see to it."

Godwin's manner softened slightly and he looked at his friend with slight smile, "Thanks."

Grayson returned his smile, though there was sympathy in his eyes rather than mirth, "You're welcome."

Up on the tower and imposing figure sat perched on the battlements. A grisly fang filled grin greeted Zalaya as she emerged onto the roof.

"Are you sure you want me to take you back there?" Skrug asked seriously.

"You ate all the bad people, I expect it to be a little more pleasant than I remember," Zalaya said with a smile.

Skrug chuckled, "As you wish," he said as he bent down for her to climb up. "It's good to have my friend flying with me again."

"Goldas doesn't mind you leaving, I hope."

"She grumbled a little, but she knows I'll return before the eggs hatch," Skrug said lightly as he took off.

Zalaya smiled, "Congratulations."

"Thank you. So, west then?"

Zalaya sighed, "West."