Disclaimer: Hey, guess what, these people aren't mine!
*A/N: "Quenderil" means "Friend of the Elves"
It seemed the entire city was alive with excitement over the arrival of the Elves. I had learned that there were many brought from each House to enjoy the festivities, particularly from the House of Elrond. Word spread quickly of the marriage to take place the following evening, as well as the great feast to be held directly after the ceremony. Aragorn suggested a private dinner this evening for his guests after they rested, to which myself and the members of the Fellowship were also invited.
As all the Elves were escorted to their chambers, I departed the company of my friends to speak with my father. I felt an overall sense of peace as I walked through the streets, happily enjoying the warm beams of light that caressed my face. I smiled to those I passed, glancing at shop fronts and studying the multicolored windows and paintings that highlighted the stone and wooden buildings. Small dogs often ran through the streets, chased by children; it had been a long time since last I had observed such simple pleasures.
Soft music hovered in the air, rustling through my hair and titillating my senses. As I passed down into the lower levels of the city, I spotted Reigan and Malorya strolling along.
"Reigan!" I called, walking quickly forward to meet them.
The pair turned, smiling in greeting as I caught up to them. Reigan appeared well rested and quite content with his surroundings, dressed in a soft brown that caused his fiery hair to appear more red. Malorya was a woman in her thirties, with a round face accentuated by impossibly large green eyes that reflected the sun easily, sparkling like emeralds in the light. Her thick blonde hair was curled tightly down her back, set off by the pale green dress that floated gently around her well-fed body.
"Hello, Naitha," said Reigan warmly.
"Naitha! What a surprise to meet you here," said Malorya with a large though crooked smile. "How do you fare on this wonderful day? Is it not beautiful?"
"It is indeed, and I am very well," I replied. "What of you? How do you enjoy this fair city?"
The couple exchanged a happy glance before Reigan answered, "I could never have imagined men could build such wonderful places. It seems every street we walk through reveals truly amazing sights more than the last. Without the help of the lady at my side, I would surely have been lost many times now."
"Naitha." Malorya touched my shoulder, gazing down at me appreciatively. "We cannot thank you enough for bringing us here. I fear that without you we would have been lost in the world and perhaps doomed to wander eternally. Only the gods know what else wanders about in those woods! All this seems so strange and it is a bit frightening, but I don't feel these people will attempt to abuse our gifts."
"I would hardly think so." I studied them both for a moment, memorizing the happiness and wonder that shone in their faces. "I hope that you will find peace here. King Elessar is a good man. I was most fortunate to travel with him for some time, and he has proved the wisdom that he carries, as well as a kind heart. He will take care of you in all your needs."
Reigan's brow furrowed as he stared at me curiously. "You speak as if you were leaving again. I believed that you would remain here, with us."
I offered him a reassuring smile, sighing gently. "My time here is set for one month; after that time, I will accompany Legolas to his home in Mirkwood Forest, ruled by King Thranduil. The king requested his son return home for a visit, and Legolas plans on introducing me to his father."
Malorya stared at me in great surprise for a few moments, before a smile crept over her face. "That elf is quite a find, Naitha. I saw you with him at the feast last night, and I must tell you, you do make quite a handsome couple."
Reigan snorted, arms folded across his chest. "I don't know why you couldn't have found one among our own people, Naitha. There were plenty of young men yet you would happily court you."
Shaking my head, I answered, "But none who know me as well as he does. Reigan, it is already set. In fact, I feel it was destined to be. Legolas is the only creature in all the world who can hold my heart. I could not change it even if I desired it so. He is a good man, Reigan, and I owe him more than I can tell. Believe me, he has proved himself worthy of my affections."
The man scrunched his mouth tightly, sighing heavily. "It's not that I have anything against him. I will admit I've been impressed by what the others have told me on our journey here. . . I just want to see you taken care of, Naitha. I've known you since you were born. It will take me some time to realize that all these creatures you have told us about are real. Did you know there are halflings running around the city?"
I laughed. "Of course! The halflings are dear friends to me."
Malorya shook her head, her eyes growing distant. "In some ways, I envy you, Naitha. You have traveled far in Middle Earth and have seen things we have only read about, become friends with creatures we thought to be mythical. You are still so young, yet I believe you have already led a full life."
A sharp pain ran through my chest, a haunting memory of the trials I had endured. For a moment, visions of ugly black creatures crowding around me swam across my mind. "Do not envy me, Malorya. I have seen much of the world, and there are terrible evils that roam the land. I have been under circumstances that would curl your hair even tighter. Do not wish to know all that I have seen. Be at peace in this well-protected city, and be content with that." Smiling sadly, I looked away. "Have you seen my father? I wish to speak with him."
Reigan nodded, apparently relieved to change the subject. "Yes, he is just down the street in front of the blacksmith. You know how he always likes to hear of all the methods of the craft; well, now he can hear of a whole new set!"
"Thank you."
I hurried off, leaving the couple to muse on my words. They certainly did not wish to learn of all my experiences; perhaps it would be best if they never knew. While they had suffered enough in their own ways, none among my people could imagine the agony of being taken by orcs. None among my people had survived their cruelty and their torture as I had. I prayed they would be safe in Minas Tirith, far from the sadness of our homeland by the sea.
Soon enough, I spotted my father speaking with a dark-haired blacksmith, curiously overlooking the careful work the man performed. The man did not seem to mind the stream of questions I could see he was being asked. I smiled, knowing how my father loved all crafts, especially smiting. It was his pride and joy.
As I stood by his side, I said, "Good day, father."
Surprised, Elisen turned, his smile stretching across his tanned face. "Hello, Naitha. What are you doing all the way down here?"
"I simply wished to speak with you, father. I wish to know how you are enjoying the city," I replied, clasping my arm through his and leading him away from the blacksmith, allowing him to continue his task and us to peruse the streets.
Clapping a hand over mine, he said, "Oh, this is quite an extraordinary city, my daughter. I look forward to sitting among the craftsmen and, well, perhaps showing them one or two things that I have learned. I'll bet they have never even thought of the things we've done." He chuckled, leading me down a particularly thin street that housed some very small shops. "I suppose I will rarely get to see Aragorn since he is the leader of this great city. At least it is good to know my very old friend is here. And what of you, Naitha? How do you care for the city?"
"Undoubtedly it is one of the most beautiful places I have seen. I do not think I have ever been happier, for here I have all the people whom I hold in my heart. It is good to see you settled, father." I looked at him, raising an eyebrow. "I have been meaning to ask you, father. I have noticed that you spoke much with Legolas last night."
Elisen nodded, his eyebrows raised in turn. "Yes, we had much to speak of. I desired to learn of his home and he of mine. I am impressed by the manner of how he describes his future kingdom, his responsibilities, how he views his status I the world, but most importantly how he sees you." He gazed at me steadily in bittersweet knowledge, his eyes searching me carefully. "He told me much of the time you have spent together, of the struggled you endured. I believe he carries a truly noble heart, Naitha, and that he is worthy of you."
My heart leapt as I broke into a relieved smile. "Father, you cannot imagine how happy you have made me! I had greatly desired for you to know Legolas, and now you do. Thank you, father, for all the joy you have brought to me."
"My only wish is to see you cared for, Naitha. After speaking with the Elvish prince, it is my belief he can do so." A weariness passed over his face like a shadow, brief yet noticeable. "I myself cannot take care of you forever, in fact, it seems you hardly need me anymore. I am proud of what you have become, my daughter; never doubt that. If this elf is what you desire, then all my blessings are yours. I am certain your mother would be very proud of you as well. As a matter of fact, I do hope to see you have children of your own."
I bit my lip. Very few souls knew of my first child, and I did not have the heart to tell my father of the young one who never saw life. The thought still stung me deeply, yet I had learned to live with the sorrow. I merely nodded, listening as he unburdened his heart.
"It does concern me that he will long outlive you, my daughter." He gazed at me seriously, eyes dark in thought. "He told me much of the longevity of his people, and that part of it would pass on to your children. Are you certain you wish to--" He paused, searching for the correct words. "--Put yourself through that?"
I met his gaze, equally serious. "Much of what you speak has already made itself known in my mind," I said quietly. "I do not fear the end of my life as long as Legolas is beside me, even though he is not meant to die. He has my love, and I have his. That is all I need to know."
Sighing deeply as we reached the gate leading back up into the sixth tier of the city, Elisen smiled agreeably, holding me close. "You are a beautiful young woman, my daughter, and I trust in your thoughts."
As we returned to the tower, the sun was leaning into the western sky, its rays turning golden orange as large clouds billowed towards the horizon. Already the scents of roasting meat and baking bread were carried through the low-hanging air, tantalizing the people who wandered through the city, excitedly concluding their day's business.
Elisen led me into the courtyard of the tower, still holding me close. "Well, my daughter, I shall go take my rest for a bit." He faced me suddenly, placing his worn hands on my face as a thoughtful smile trailed across his lips. His eyes were filled with the joy of finding a new life, the satisfaction of having raised his daughter well, and the sadness of realizing his daughter no longer belonged to him alone.
"I love you, my daughter," he said softly. "I will miss you when you travel to Mirkwood. I suppose I cannot expect you to remain in one place for very long after all you have seen."
"I will miss you, father, but there is still much time before we will depart. We have plenty of time yet to be together." I offered him a reassuring smile, then kissed his cheek. "Just remember that I will always visit you when able, and I will always take care of you. Go rest, father. I will find you later."
He nodded, and then slowly walked into the white tower. When he was gone, I moved towards the fountain, entranced by the soothing sounds of the water cascading through the various levels of the stature and into the pool beneath it. It sparkled brightly in the late afternoon sun, millions of dancing jewels continually changing with each wisp of cloud that floated across the sky.
As I studied my reflection, I noted how satisfied I had become. No longer did I cringe at the sight of my own face. My eyes had become spirited and alive again, my skin warm and gently pale against my dark hair that now rested gently about my shoulders. I smiled slightly, touching my neck. It had been long since I had thought of the evil creatures and their cruel deeds. My heart no longer cowered in fear.
Now I thought of my father. He seemed very torn inside, for he realized that Legolas was a good man who would care for me completely, yet he resisted the idea that I would be taken away from him again. I knew he was not a young man, and in time he too would pass on. I promised myself that I would care for him as much as possible. He was hurt that I was going to Mirkwood, but I would not stay there forever. Indeed, he was correct in believing I would not stay still for long. After all, I had promised the hobbits that I would visit the Shire someday. Perhaps one day I would be allowed to make a home for myself.
As if a vision in the water, I saw Legolas appear beside my face, a gentle smile gracing his delicate features. He spoke softly. "I hope I am not disturbing you."
Turning to face the elf, I smiled. "Of course not."
"Where have you been today, my love?" he asked, hair trailing behind his ears softly.
"I was merely speaking with my father since the two of you were deep in conversation last night." I looked up at him, casually running a finger down his tunic, mentally envisioning the velvety skin that lay beneath. "He speaks well of you, my Prince. I believe you have made quite an impression upon him."
Legolas stared into my face silently, his gray orbs gently searching my eyes as he radiated with a love that echoed from his elven heart. "It was my desire to be in your father's favor," he said quietly. He clasped my hands in his, pulling me close to his lithe figure. The way he gazed at me sent a shiver of delight up my back, weakening my knees though I kept myself on my feet.
"Andariel," he said. "I know your mind. I know you worry for the time when you will meet my father, and I assure you, things will not be as difficult as you imagine."
I sighed lightly, averting my eyes for a moment. "I do fear your father, for I have always known he will not accept me for who I am."
"Who do you believe yourself to be?"
My voice was somewhat bitter as I replied, "I am a mortal woman who comes from a little known people with no worldly power. I am not an elf."
Legolas ran his fingers along the curves of my face, the soft smile flickering across his face. "You are much more than a fair maiden who comes from an honorable people," he whispered. "I have seen your heart, and it is greater than many maidens I have known in my lifetime. Andariel van imelda, it matters not to me that you are mortal, and I will make my father see that you possess my heart. Perhaps he will be more agreeable if he knows I have asked you to share your life at my side."
I stared, staring into his eyes as I felt his slide a band onto my finger. My heart thundered in my ears as I recognized what he was asking.
"Will you be my wife?" he whispered, leaning his face close to mine.
I could barely hear anything but the sound of his voice as it wound its way through my soul. Surprise gripped my body as I stared at the woven band of silver and golden leaves that he still held onto as it sat upon my finger, sparkling in the sunlight. I could hardly believe what I had heard, yet I felt in my heart that he never need ask the question; I had always been his and always would be.
Meeting his eyes, I felt tears prick at my eyes as I struggled to find my voice through the bliss I felt. "My love, why do you ask? My heart is bound to yours for all my life. Of course I will."
He smiled so sweetly it seemed all the beauty of the world reflected in his face. My heart flooded with warmth and happiness as he kissed my hand that now held the ring, then raised his face to meet my own. I wrapped my arms around his neck as I tilted my head upward, meeting the lips of my betrothed.
*A/N: "Van imelda" is "O beautiful.."
*A/N: "Quenderil" means "Friend of the Elves"
It seemed the entire city was alive with excitement over the arrival of the Elves. I had learned that there were many brought from each House to enjoy the festivities, particularly from the House of Elrond. Word spread quickly of the marriage to take place the following evening, as well as the great feast to be held directly after the ceremony. Aragorn suggested a private dinner this evening for his guests after they rested, to which myself and the members of the Fellowship were also invited.
As all the Elves were escorted to their chambers, I departed the company of my friends to speak with my father. I felt an overall sense of peace as I walked through the streets, happily enjoying the warm beams of light that caressed my face. I smiled to those I passed, glancing at shop fronts and studying the multicolored windows and paintings that highlighted the stone and wooden buildings. Small dogs often ran through the streets, chased by children; it had been a long time since last I had observed such simple pleasures.
Soft music hovered in the air, rustling through my hair and titillating my senses. As I passed down into the lower levels of the city, I spotted Reigan and Malorya strolling along.
"Reigan!" I called, walking quickly forward to meet them.
The pair turned, smiling in greeting as I caught up to them. Reigan appeared well rested and quite content with his surroundings, dressed in a soft brown that caused his fiery hair to appear more red. Malorya was a woman in her thirties, with a round face accentuated by impossibly large green eyes that reflected the sun easily, sparkling like emeralds in the light. Her thick blonde hair was curled tightly down her back, set off by the pale green dress that floated gently around her well-fed body.
"Hello, Naitha," said Reigan warmly.
"Naitha! What a surprise to meet you here," said Malorya with a large though crooked smile. "How do you fare on this wonderful day? Is it not beautiful?"
"It is indeed, and I am very well," I replied. "What of you? How do you enjoy this fair city?"
The couple exchanged a happy glance before Reigan answered, "I could never have imagined men could build such wonderful places. It seems every street we walk through reveals truly amazing sights more than the last. Without the help of the lady at my side, I would surely have been lost many times now."
"Naitha." Malorya touched my shoulder, gazing down at me appreciatively. "We cannot thank you enough for bringing us here. I fear that without you we would have been lost in the world and perhaps doomed to wander eternally. Only the gods know what else wanders about in those woods! All this seems so strange and it is a bit frightening, but I don't feel these people will attempt to abuse our gifts."
"I would hardly think so." I studied them both for a moment, memorizing the happiness and wonder that shone in their faces. "I hope that you will find peace here. King Elessar is a good man. I was most fortunate to travel with him for some time, and he has proved the wisdom that he carries, as well as a kind heart. He will take care of you in all your needs."
Reigan's brow furrowed as he stared at me curiously. "You speak as if you were leaving again. I believed that you would remain here, with us."
I offered him a reassuring smile, sighing gently. "My time here is set for one month; after that time, I will accompany Legolas to his home in Mirkwood Forest, ruled by King Thranduil. The king requested his son return home for a visit, and Legolas plans on introducing me to his father."
Malorya stared at me in great surprise for a few moments, before a smile crept over her face. "That elf is quite a find, Naitha. I saw you with him at the feast last night, and I must tell you, you do make quite a handsome couple."
Reigan snorted, arms folded across his chest. "I don't know why you couldn't have found one among our own people, Naitha. There were plenty of young men yet you would happily court you."
Shaking my head, I answered, "But none who know me as well as he does. Reigan, it is already set. In fact, I feel it was destined to be. Legolas is the only creature in all the world who can hold my heart. I could not change it even if I desired it so. He is a good man, Reigan, and I owe him more than I can tell. Believe me, he has proved himself worthy of my affections."
The man scrunched his mouth tightly, sighing heavily. "It's not that I have anything against him. I will admit I've been impressed by what the others have told me on our journey here. . . I just want to see you taken care of, Naitha. I've known you since you were born. It will take me some time to realize that all these creatures you have told us about are real. Did you know there are halflings running around the city?"
I laughed. "Of course! The halflings are dear friends to me."
Malorya shook her head, her eyes growing distant. "In some ways, I envy you, Naitha. You have traveled far in Middle Earth and have seen things we have only read about, become friends with creatures we thought to be mythical. You are still so young, yet I believe you have already led a full life."
A sharp pain ran through my chest, a haunting memory of the trials I had endured. For a moment, visions of ugly black creatures crowding around me swam across my mind. "Do not envy me, Malorya. I have seen much of the world, and there are terrible evils that roam the land. I have been under circumstances that would curl your hair even tighter. Do not wish to know all that I have seen. Be at peace in this well-protected city, and be content with that." Smiling sadly, I looked away. "Have you seen my father? I wish to speak with him."
Reigan nodded, apparently relieved to change the subject. "Yes, he is just down the street in front of the blacksmith. You know how he always likes to hear of all the methods of the craft; well, now he can hear of a whole new set!"
"Thank you."
I hurried off, leaving the couple to muse on my words. They certainly did not wish to learn of all my experiences; perhaps it would be best if they never knew. While they had suffered enough in their own ways, none among my people could imagine the agony of being taken by orcs. None among my people had survived their cruelty and their torture as I had. I prayed they would be safe in Minas Tirith, far from the sadness of our homeland by the sea.
Soon enough, I spotted my father speaking with a dark-haired blacksmith, curiously overlooking the careful work the man performed. The man did not seem to mind the stream of questions I could see he was being asked. I smiled, knowing how my father loved all crafts, especially smiting. It was his pride and joy.
As I stood by his side, I said, "Good day, father."
Surprised, Elisen turned, his smile stretching across his tanned face. "Hello, Naitha. What are you doing all the way down here?"
"I simply wished to speak with you, father. I wish to know how you are enjoying the city," I replied, clasping my arm through his and leading him away from the blacksmith, allowing him to continue his task and us to peruse the streets.
Clapping a hand over mine, he said, "Oh, this is quite an extraordinary city, my daughter. I look forward to sitting among the craftsmen and, well, perhaps showing them one or two things that I have learned. I'll bet they have never even thought of the things we've done." He chuckled, leading me down a particularly thin street that housed some very small shops. "I suppose I will rarely get to see Aragorn since he is the leader of this great city. At least it is good to know my very old friend is here. And what of you, Naitha? How do you care for the city?"
"Undoubtedly it is one of the most beautiful places I have seen. I do not think I have ever been happier, for here I have all the people whom I hold in my heart. It is good to see you settled, father." I looked at him, raising an eyebrow. "I have been meaning to ask you, father. I have noticed that you spoke much with Legolas last night."
Elisen nodded, his eyebrows raised in turn. "Yes, we had much to speak of. I desired to learn of his home and he of mine. I am impressed by the manner of how he describes his future kingdom, his responsibilities, how he views his status I the world, but most importantly how he sees you." He gazed at me steadily in bittersweet knowledge, his eyes searching me carefully. "He told me much of the time you have spent together, of the struggled you endured. I believe he carries a truly noble heart, Naitha, and that he is worthy of you."
My heart leapt as I broke into a relieved smile. "Father, you cannot imagine how happy you have made me! I had greatly desired for you to know Legolas, and now you do. Thank you, father, for all the joy you have brought to me."
"My only wish is to see you cared for, Naitha. After speaking with the Elvish prince, it is my belief he can do so." A weariness passed over his face like a shadow, brief yet noticeable. "I myself cannot take care of you forever, in fact, it seems you hardly need me anymore. I am proud of what you have become, my daughter; never doubt that. If this elf is what you desire, then all my blessings are yours. I am certain your mother would be very proud of you as well. As a matter of fact, I do hope to see you have children of your own."
I bit my lip. Very few souls knew of my first child, and I did not have the heart to tell my father of the young one who never saw life. The thought still stung me deeply, yet I had learned to live with the sorrow. I merely nodded, listening as he unburdened his heart.
"It does concern me that he will long outlive you, my daughter." He gazed at me seriously, eyes dark in thought. "He told me much of the longevity of his people, and that part of it would pass on to your children. Are you certain you wish to--" He paused, searching for the correct words. "--Put yourself through that?"
I met his gaze, equally serious. "Much of what you speak has already made itself known in my mind," I said quietly. "I do not fear the end of my life as long as Legolas is beside me, even though he is not meant to die. He has my love, and I have his. That is all I need to know."
Sighing deeply as we reached the gate leading back up into the sixth tier of the city, Elisen smiled agreeably, holding me close. "You are a beautiful young woman, my daughter, and I trust in your thoughts."
As we returned to the tower, the sun was leaning into the western sky, its rays turning golden orange as large clouds billowed towards the horizon. Already the scents of roasting meat and baking bread were carried through the low-hanging air, tantalizing the people who wandered through the city, excitedly concluding their day's business.
Elisen led me into the courtyard of the tower, still holding me close. "Well, my daughter, I shall go take my rest for a bit." He faced me suddenly, placing his worn hands on my face as a thoughtful smile trailed across his lips. His eyes were filled with the joy of finding a new life, the satisfaction of having raised his daughter well, and the sadness of realizing his daughter no longer belonged to him alone.
"I love you, my daughter," he said softly. "I will miss you when you travel to Mirkwood. I suppose I cannot expect you to remain in one place for very long after all you have seen."
"I will miss you, father, but there is still much time before we will depart. We have plenty of time yet to be together." I offered him a reassuring smile, then kissed his cheek. "Just remember that I will always visit you when able, and I will always take care of you. Go rest, father. I will find you later."
He nodded, and then slowly walked into the white tower. When he was gone, I moved towards the fountain, entranced by the soothing sounds of the water cascading through the various levels of the stature and into the pool beneath it. It sparkled brightly in the late afternoon sun, millions of dancing jewels continually changing with each wisp of cloud that floated across the sky.
As I studied my reflection, I noted how satisfied I had become. No longer did I cringe at the sight of my own face. My eyes had become spirited and alive again, my skin warm and gently pale against my dark hair that now rested gently about my shoulders. I smiled slightly, touching my neck. It had been long since I had thought of the evil creatures and their cruel deeds. My heart no longer cowered in fear.
Now I thought of my father. He seemed very torn inside, for he realized that Legolas was a good man who would care for me completely, yet he resisted the idea that I would be taken away from him again. I knew he was not a young man, and in time he too would pass on. I promised myself that I would care for him as much as possible. He was hurt that I was going to Mirkwood, but I would not stay there forever. Indeed, he was correct in believing I would not stay still for long. After all, I had promised the hobbits that I would visit the Shire someday. Perhaps one day I would be allowed to make a home for myself.
As if a vision in the water, I saw Legolas appear beside my face, a gentle smile gracing his delicate features. He spoke softly. "I hope I am not disturbing you."
Turning to face the elf, I smiled. "Of course not."
"Where have you been today, my love?" he asked, hair trailing behind his ears softly.
"I was merely speaking with my father since the two of you were deep in conversation last night." I looked up at him, casually running a finger down his tunic, mentally envisioning the velvety skin that lay beneath. "He speaks well of you, my Prince. I believe you have made quite an impression upon him."
Legolas stared into my face silently, his gray orbs gently searching my eyes as he radiated with a love that echoed from his elven heart. "It was my desire to be in your father's favor," he said quietly. He clasped my hands in his, pulling me close to his lithe figure. The way he gazed at me sent a shiver of delight up my back, weakening my knees though I kept myself on my feet.
"Andariel," he said. "I know your mind. I know you worry for the time when you will meet my father, and I assure you, things will not be as difficult as you imagine."
I sighed lightly, averting my eyes for a moment. "I do fear your father, for I have always known he will not accept me for who I am."
"Who do you believe yourself to be?"
My voice was somewhat bitter as I replied, "I am a mortal woman who comes from a little known people with no worldly power. I am not an elf."
Legolas ran his fingers along the curves of my face, the soft smile flickering across his face. "You are much more than a fair maiden who comes from an honorable people," he whispered. "I have seen your heart, and it is greater than many maidens I have known in my lifetime. Andariel van imelda, it matters not to me that you are mortal, and I will make my father see that you possess my heart. Perhaps he will be more agreeable if he knows I have asked you to share your life at my side."
I stared, staring into his eyes as I felt his slide a band onto my finger. My heart thundered in my ears as I recognized what he was asking.
"Will you be my wife?" he whispered, leaning his face close to mine.
I could barely hear anything but the sound of his voice as it wound its way through my soul. Surprise gripped my body as I stared at the woven band of silver and golden leaves that he still held onto as it sat upon my finger, sparkling in the sunlight. I could hardly believe what I had heard, yet I felt in my heart that he never need ask the question; I had always been his and always would be.
Meeting his eyes, I felt tears prick at my eyes as I struggled to find my voice through the bliss I felt. "My love, why do you ask? My heart is bound to yours for all my life. Of course I will."
He smiled so sweetly it seemed all the beauty of the world reflected in his face. My heart flooded with warmth and happiness as he kissed my hand that now held the ring, then raised his face to meet my own. I wrapped my arms around his neck as I tilted my head upward, meeting the lips of my betrothed.
*A/N: "Van imelda" is "O beautiful.."