Today's chapter is full of fun surprises, plus it's on the longer side. I think you will all enjoy it!

Chapter 68

In three quick strides, Candaith was by my side. The first thing he did was kiss me gently, and I melted into it. After a few moments, he pulled back and looked into my eyes as he studied me intently. I waited for him to speak, and took in his appearance once more. He had indeed cleaned up, and looked very handsome and clean-shaven, but underneath the happiness in his gaze, the worry still remained.

"Seeing your eyes looking into mine is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen," he murmured, and I almost giggled at the cheesiness of it, but refrained due to the sincerity I could hear. "I…I was afraid I would never see them open again."

I set the now cooling broth on a side table next to me and took his face in my hands. "Yet, here I am, looking at you all the same." I smiled. "It isn't easy to get rid of me, I assure you."

Despite my best efforts, the smile slid off of his face, a concerned look replacing it. "Nonetheless, it almost happened. If the antidote was found even a few minutes later, Levra said it might have been too late to save you."

I sighed, but tried to turn it back around. "The Valar must be looking out for me then, considering the number of times I have survived the most unlikely scenarios." In truth, I still held a gripe with them, but kept it to myself. I wanted to make Candaith feel a little better.

Instead, Candaith looked frustrated now, "If they were looking out for you, they would not let you come so close to death."

I furrowed my brow, "Hey now, let us not dwell on such unhappy thoughts." I took my fingertips and ran them over the worry lines on his forehead. "I would see you smile again, meleth nin. I am safe, and we are here together. That is enough for me."

At this, he relaxed somewhat, and his lips quirked up in a small but genuine smile. "I am glad of it Gwin." He tried to run a hand through my hair, but I winced as he hit a snag. "Would you like me to brush it for you?" I nodded, and after digging around a bit in the pack I happily noted was mine, he pulled out my familiar wooden brush with soft bristles. The bed was not pushed completely back against the wall of the tent, so he came around the head of it and readjusted the pillows. I hummed in pleasure as I felt the calming strokes undoing the tangles gently. I knew he didn't know how to braid it (something I meant to teach him at some point), so he let it hang freely down my back.

Coming around to the side of the bed where he had been sitting, he took my hands in his, a determined expression on his face. Not sure what he was about to say, I looked at him questioningly.

"Marry me," he said quietly.

I was taken aback, and completely unprepared. "What?" Had I heard what I thought I had just heard?

He smiled and looked into my eyes with some intensity. "Marry me," he repeated. "Nearly losing you again made me realize how we cannot know what the next day will bring…and I would like to spend the rest of them by your side, as your husband." He suddenly seemed uneasy. "If that is what you would like."

I stared at him with some astonishment. He wanted to marry me? Now? In the middle of a war? In a foreign, unfriendly land? Was it a proposal made out of fear of losing me? I quickly considered this. It was not the proposal or type of ceremony I had dreamed about for thousands of years, but in the grand scheme of things, did it really matter? We loved each other, and he was right in saying each day was not guaranteed. We should grasp each moment and treasure it.

Noting that he was waiting for an answer and looking more worried by the minute, I breathed, "Yes." His eyes lit up, and I said it again, "Yes, I will marry you." Without another word, I pulled him into a kiss, and slowly put my arms around his neck. He took care to be gentle, aware of my injuries, and in that moment, I felt like the happiest Elleth in Arda.

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While Candaith and I had been speaking, Gevorch had been escorted and given to his clan, and we tried to put the terrible events behind us. The news of our betrothal spread through the camp rapidly, and I had a slew of well-wishers. The twins denied knowing of Candaith's plans, but their was a twinkle in their eyes which suggested it might be otherwise.

I was reorganizing my pack when I noticed some movement at the entrance of the tent. My eyes lit up at the current person coming to visit me. He was moving slowly, as he was still recovering from his injuries, but his smile was genuine as he approached me.

"Ergothorn, it is good to see you!" I exclaimed, helping him into a chair near the table at which I was currently sitting.

"And hello to you, Lady Gwinthilnel," he replied with a wink. I rolled my eyes and he chuckled. "I am glad to see you are well." His smile faded. "When I woke up here in the camp, I feared I had failed you." He sighed and looked at his hands. "In truth, I suppose I did."

"You did not fail me," I insisted. "You were attacked by an enemy and could not continue on. Even after my inability to save you, the others found you and you survived against all predictions. The letter was an excellent idea."

Ergothorn nodded pensively, "I wrote it in a flash of inspiration. Although I didn't anticipate I would be accosted on the journey, the more paranoid side of me convince me to write it. I am glad I did, even though someone left the safety of the cave to go off gallivanting the wilds to find me."

I tried to laugh but was still struggling to push the guilt away. It had been eating at me ever since I had to leave him to likely die all alone. "I had to do it; you had done so much for me, and I consider you a friend." I had been looking at the ground, but raised my eyes to his. "I am sorry I could not save you. If anyone failed, it was me." I felt a wave of emotion crash over me, and noted a tear roll down my cheek, which I brushed away with some embarrassment.

"Hey now, no more tears," Ergothorn said softly. "All will be well." I gave him a small smile as I remembered how he had spoken those same words to me after my horrible dream. It had been a comfort to me then, as it was now. Had it only been days ago? It felt like an Age had passed. He straightened up a little bit and changed the subject with a grin. "It seems a congratulations are in order?"

I returned it happily, my mood lifting. "It was all rather sudden, but I am glad of it!" Truly I still could not believe Candaith and I were betrothed; it still seemed like a dream.

"I am happy for you Gwin, truly," Ergothorn replied, squeezing my hand briefly. "I hope I am invited."

I raised an eyebrow, "As long as you promise to behave."

"No guarantees," he said with a smirk and a wink, and we both laughed. A more serious look formed on his face; he seemed a little uneasy, and wouldn't meet my gaze. Noting this change, I looked at him quizzically. "Gwin, I…I am sorry if I ever made you feel uncomfortable, back in the cave." I noted a slight blush on his cheeks. "I did not know you were in a relationship with another person." He huffed a laugh, "Although it wasn't like I stood a chance with someone so high above my station." His eyes finally met mine, and I could see amusement in them. "A dashing, mysterious Dunedain ranger is a much better fit for your 'ladylike' disposition."

"Ladylike disposition?" I replied with some astonishment, and he ducked as I threw a roll of linen at his head. I tried to glare at him, but his laughter had me grinning. "No worries mellon nin; it is water under the bridge, as Men say."

"Ah, so Elves have more…eloquent sayings?" He replied, needling me as he was wont to do.

I rolled my eyes, "I shouldn't have said anything about Men." He smirked and I sighed in exasperation, but smiled so he knew I was not truly annoyed.

Moving on from his apology, we spoke a little more about more trivial things, and he took his leave when I insisted he go and rest. "As long as you do the same," he replied, and he slowly made his way out into the camp.

I did take some time to rest on my camp bed, staring up at the ceiling in thought. I wondered how and when the ceremony would happen. I was still recovering, and I had no dress or finery to wear. There were also traditions to be upheld, and the twins wished to do at least some of them. To my surprise, Levra and Nona had worked together to find me something nice to wear. It was not Elvish by any means, but rather the style of their people. Despite this, it was lovely.

A week later, I found myself wearing it. The coloring was of dark greens and browns, and made of soft cloth lined with wool, as it was a bit chilly outside. It was simple with little ornamentation, and had sleeves down to my wrists. It fit me well; the skirts trailed on the ground, and felt light as I moved. I joked with Elrohir that I had not worn something so womanly in months. Instead of quipping something back, he looked at me fondly. "You look beautiful, muinthel."

I blushed, "I suppose anything would look beautiful compared to the travel-worn clothes I usually wear."

"It is not just your outfit, although it is lovely. Your eyes are shining with happiness, and I have always wished you such joy," Elrohir said with some emotion. "May I braid your hair?"

I felt a little teary, and nodded. It certainly felt elaborate as he made the braids, and I wondered what it would look like. He had put some slim, dark green ribbons in my hair, which matched the dress well. I had no jewelry, but I noted it didn't really matter. In fact, neither of us had rings to exchange.

Or so I thought.

Without my knowledge, once Candaith made his attentions known to my brothers, Elladan had ridden to Echad Mirobel while I was still recovering, and had two matching rings crafted. They were silver, and looked like leaves woven together. Tiny diamonds sparkled within them, but it was subtle and did not look gaudy. My eyes lit up when he presented them to me, and he returned my happy smile with musical laughter. "I am glad you like them, penneth."

I frowned, "Penneth may not be the right word to use today."

He raised an eyebrow, "Ah, because getting married means you are all grown up?" Amusement twinkled in his eyes.

I huffed a sigh but couldn't help but grin. "I suppose I will always be your muinthel pen, right?"

An arm slid around my shoulders, and I looked to my right to see Elrohir had sidled up alongside me. "Of course you will," he said merrily. "You and Arwen cannot escape that title."

I couldn't help but laugh, "Fair enough." We were inside a tent, where I had been getting ready, and I could hear people outside gathering together. I suddenly felt butterflies of nerves in my stomach. "Is it time?"

"Nearly," Elrohir responded. He came around and looked into my eyes. "This is what you want?" he asked seriously. I knew how much my happiness meant to him, but I also knew he worried for my health and my life. We all knew it was likely I would not handle Candaith's passing well, and what it could lead to.

I nodded and replied, "It is, muindor. I know our time is short together, but his love is worth it."

At this, Elrohir smiled. "Then there is no more to say except that we are happy for you. Will you allow me to escort you? Elladan will be performing the ceremony."

"Of course. I hope I remember what to say," I said nervously.

Elladan laughed, "If not, I will help you along." At this, he left the tent. After a few minutes of bouncing on my toes in anticipation, Elrohir took my hand and tucked it beneath his arm. "It is time, Gwin."

I took a deep breath to calm myself, and we stepped into the sunlight. Ahead of me, I could see the others in the camp had moved into a couple of rows, standing because we did not have enough chairs. Candaith had considered inviting some of the rangers from the large, nearby Dunedain stronghold of Harndirion, but we decided there wasn't enough room for so many people. There was a makeshift aisle down the middle, and as I moved closer, I could see Candaith standing nervously. Once he caught sight of me, he relaxed and a wide grin was on his face. I returned it, my heart fluttering.

As I went with Elrohir, someone started playing a hand harp, and I briefly turned to see Lothrandir strumming a soft, beautiful tune. He smiled at me and winked. It was a slow melody, with the perfect tempo for walking. The music relaxed me, and before I knew it, I was standing in front of Candaith. Elrohir hugged me and bowed to Candaith with his hand over his heart in the Elvish fashion, before putting my hand in Candaith's.

Candaith squeezed my hand, and we turned to face each other. He looked very handsome in clothing similar in color to mine. He had dark brown trousers and a pine green tunic, and what looked to be a brand new, grey cloak, with a clasp of silver stars. The hood was down so I could see his dark brown hair, and his blue eyes sparkled with joy. I was sure mine held the same expression.

Elladan cleared his throat, and gave me a smile before addressing everyone. "I bid you all welcome. We gather here in a time of celebration, to share in the joy of love between Candaith and Gwinthilnel. Despite all we are facing, is not love the mightiest of all forces in this world? It is something to be cherished, and valued. As they walk the path of life, these two shall grow their love, as tall as the trees of Lothlorien, and even more fair. The stars will shine ever brighter, and the blessings of Varda and Manwe go with them."

I distantly heard what Elladan was saying, but I was so lost in Candaith's eyes that it seemed it was only the two of us. His smile was gentle now, and he moved his thumb over my knuckles in the always comforting gesture I so loved. My focus snapped into place once more as I heard the next part of the ceremony begin.

"When two are to be wed, the rites of both Elves and Men call for the exchange of silver rings," Elladan continued. At this, he pulled them out of the pocket of his tunic, and handed one to each of us. "Let this reveal their bond to us, as they take their oaths to each other." Elladan looked at me encouragingly, and I somehow found my voice.

"Aiya, elenion ancalima. Guren min gaim lín. Nai Varda tintalle hlaruva ellor ar nai Eru Ilúvatar alyuva tet." I took his hand and slid the ring onto his index finger. I was trembling slightly, and hoped no one noticed.

Candaith spoke next, his deep voice calming my racing heart. "We are as two fair trees entangled beneath the Sun, rooted deep, drinking light together. With this ring, let the roots become forever entwined. May Manwe Lord of Wind watch over us and may Eru the Father of all bless our union." He in turn slid the ring onto my index finger, and I took a moment to once again admire the craftsmanship. Our rings sparkled in the sunlight, and it warmed my heart.

We both looked to Elladan as he spoke the next part. "Candaith, will you wed Gwinthilnel, and henceforth be husband unto her?"

Candaith locked eyes with me and responded, "I will."

"Gwinthilnel, will you wed Candaith, and henceforth be wife unto him?"

"I will," I murmured, feeling emotional. Don't you dare cry! It was a difficult endeavor; I could not believe this was happening. How was I so lucky to find love, and with such an unexpected person?

"Then before the Valar and the One who stands above all others, and in sight of Men and Elves, let you be bound together." Elladan took a piece of green ribbon and entwined it around our wrists, which was a symbol of the joining of our souls. Well, it would be in the Elvish fashion, as the fëa, or souls, of two Elves literally join as one. In the back of my mind, I wondered what would happen with ours. Pushing that aside for now, I paid attention to the end of the ceremony.

"As a final symbol of their vow to one another, you may seal your union with a kiss," Elladan said softly, and I noted his eyes were a little watery. Candaith wasted no time and took my face in his hands, kissing me gently.

When he released me, I blushed at the cheers and applause from the others, knowing I was blessed to be a part of this group of people. Yes, Candaith made me feel more welcomed by the Dunedain, but knowing I had the friendship of so many others inferred that I belonged. Someone had found some flowers of some kind because petals were scattered on the ground as we walked back down the aisle, and Lothrandir was playing a jaunty tune.

After the ceremony, we had a party. Nothing too rambunctious; we were still trying to stay somewhat concealed, but there was music and dancing, and good food. Although I did dance with several others, I was mostly in the arms of my new husband, which was a wonderful place to be. I felt like I was floating off the ground, and I knew I had never been so happy in my long life. Happiness didn't even seem like a strong enough word to describe how I felt. My heart was full, and in that moment, I knew nothing could ever take away the love that was there.

As the stars started to twinkle above us, it drew my gaze. They were out in full display, and I could see Earendil clearly sailing across the sky. I glanced at Elrohir, and noticed his eyes had also found it. He was staring pensively, and I wondered what he was thinking. How strange it would be to know your daeradar was up there? I tried to imagine such a thing, but found it difficult. Earendil was one of the most well-known figures in the history of Arda, with his son Elrond not far behind. Did Elrohir and Elladan feel like they needed to measure up?

He must have felt my eyes on him, for Elrohir looked my way and forced a smile. I was currently alone and waiting for Candaith to return with my cloak; it was getting chilly, and I wandered over to Elrohir. "Muindor, I sense your mind is troubled." I said quietly.

"Nothing for you to worry about," he replied, taking my hand and squeezing it. "Today is for you and Candaith."

Ignoring the deflection, I continued, "I know you wished you could have met him." He reluctantly nodded. "Perhaps someday you will."

"It is days like this that remind me of family," Elrohir replied. "I admit I do not fully understand why he and naernaneth decided it was too much trouble to stay behind for their children. Certainly, they were in danger, especially Elwing, but they left my adar and uncle with two of the Sons of Feanor. What kind of parent would do such a thing?" He seemed frustrated, and I wondered how long he had held onto these thoughts.

I had no real answer to that, so I spoke what was in my heart, "I cannot say, but you do have family here that loves you." I moved a little closer to look into his troubled eyes. "Spend your time with us, and do not dwell on those who are not. We care for you, and will always be here."

"Will you?" I furrowed my brow in confusion, and he elaborated. "Will you always be here?"

I knew what he was inferring, but had no good answer. "I will as long as I can," I said softly. "I promise."

He smiled at me, but it was sad. "As I said before, I have only wished you joy. I pray you will have many years to spend with Candaith…and when he is no longer with you, I would hope you could find solace in the presence of your family."

"Elrohir, do not worry about such things now," I said earnestly. "I have only just gotten married. You told me once to live each day to the fullest, and that is what I intend to do. Worrying about the future will only make it easier to sink into despair. There is much to be grateful for, is there not?"

He nodded, and I sensed he felt more at peace. "Yes there is, muinthel." He looked over my shoulder, and he must have seen Candaith returning. "Spend time with your new husband, and put your worries about the rest of us behind you. There is more yet for you to do to complete the ceremony." At this he looked at me mischievously, and I rolled my eyes.

"You can put that thought right out of your head," I replied, shoving him lightly. He was referring to the consummation, which was really the only thing required in the Elvish tradition in order to be married. "Now go find Elladan and amuse yourself."

"All right, I will leave you to it," he said. He pressed a kiss to my forehead before turning away and heading over to find his brother.

Candaith settled the cloak over my shoulders, and looked at Elrohir's retreating figure curiously. "What was that regarding?"

"Nothing for you to worry about," I repeated Elrohir's words. My arms snaked around his neck, and I kissed him. When I opened my eyes again, his were smoldering with something that made me shiver in anticipation.

"Shall we retire, my lady wife?" He asked, his voice low and full of desire.

"Yes, I think we shall," I replied breathily. He escorted me to an empty tent, which was stood apart from the others, and we ducked inside.

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Elvish translation of Gwin's portion of the vows:

Aiya, elenion ancalima: Hail, brightest of the stars.

Guren min gaim lín: My heart is in your hands.

Nai Varda Tintalle hlaruva ellor ar nai Eru Ilúvatar alyuva tet: May Varda the Star-Kindler hear our calls, and may Eru the Father of all bless our union.

I bet you didn't see that coming! It took me awhile to get this chapter the way I wanted it, and I hoped you enjoyed it! Next chapter we have the final portion of the ceremony ;-)

Leave a review if you'd like!