Dear Readers: I apologize for my delay in updating the story. As I mentioned to you in my previous chapter, I have entered a very, very, VERY busy time in my life. Things are going to be hectic for another month or so and I will not be able to update as frequently. However, once things settle down for me, I promise to update every 1-2 weeks once again. I thank you for your patience and understanding. Because of my delay, I am repeating the Haldir portion of the last chapter at the start of this one. I hope you enjoy the wedding!

Once more, I will address individual reviewers at the end of the chapter.

A HUGE, BIG THANK YOU to my beta Kris for providing me with some WONDERFUL dialogue between Legolas and Gimli! If you haven't checked out her story IN LOVING MEMORY (under the pen name Bela's Voice), please do so! You will not be disappointed.

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE: VOWS TO TAKE

Haldir waited for his daughter on the branch bridge outside his dwelling, in the same spot where he had waited to escort his bride to their wedding nearly three hundred years earlier. The Elf was dressed in the same cream brocaded jacket he had worn then, his hair unbound and blowing in the crisp autumnal breeze. In one hand he held Ellie's bouquet--a bouquet of bright elanor he himself had picked on Cerin Amroth a few hours ago. The Elf had done as much for Naia on their wedding day. Inside the lavender-painted bedroom a few short paces away, Azziel was attending his daughter, just as she had attended his wife.

Naia and Elanae Both of them brides. Both of them happy and hopeful and eager to begin new lives in the company of Elves. Both of them forever bound to his soul.

So little had changed, so much was different. The past mingled freely with the present, and Haldir's heart was filled with bittersweet emotions, as he leaned back against the balustrade and stared at the closed door of his dwelling.

Naia and meEllie and Legolas… Two marriages begun with so much promise, but only one fated to succeed.

Even had Naia stayed with him, they were destined for heartbreak, doomed from the very beginning by the passage of years--by the ravages time wreaked on fragile, mortal beings. Naia would not have lived to see this day.

Oh, my love, what I would give to have you at my side now, to share this moment with me, Haldir silently spoke to his dead wife and closed his eyes. He waited for the old sorrow to wrap around his heart like a blanket that would smother him. He waited for the familiar pain to cut him like a knife. And it came, only this time it was blunted, its sharp edges dulled by the knowledge that he was no longer alone. Would never again be alone.

He had lost a wife, but he had gained a daughter. A lovely, gifted daughter, who offered him hope for the future, hope for days filled with laughter and companionship. Ellie, now he was certain, would not make the mistakes Naia had made. She would never abandon those she loved for an antiquated faith.

And with her marriage, Haldir also gained a son, although he nearly chuckled at the thought. Legolas, Prince of Mirkwood, would never look upon him as he would a father.

With a ghost of a smile touching his lips, Haldir opened his eyes, and through a sheen of unshed tears, beheld his daughter standing serenely in the open doorway. Princess Elanae, beautiful and majestic, smiling warmly at her father, extending loving arms to him.

Haldir of Lorien had come around full circle.

"Ellie, I always thought your mother to be the loveliest woman in the world…until now," he said, his eyes and voice filled with wonder and pride, as he set aside the bouquet of elanor, reached for his daughter's outstretched hands and laced her fingers with his own.

She was impossibly tiny and flower-like, looking more delicate than ever and, despite her rich coloring, as ethereal as any Elf. Yet, at the same time, she carried herself with the poise and quiet confidence befitting the noble Lady she had always been--befitting the Princess she had just become.

"You will do Legolas proud," Haldir pronounced. A soft and loving smile touched his lips, a boyish smile that delighted Ellie as much as his words. "You do our family proud."

"Thank you," she replied, the warmth of her own smile echoed in her voice, as she stepped forward and embraced him.

My father…Ellie closed her eyes, and listened to the strong, steady heartbeat beneath her ear. Haldir looked no different than he did on the day of his wedding, and yet that indomitable heart had nearly been broken beyond repair because Naia had chosen her daughter over him--when she need not have chosen at all. Now he was healing, and Ellie thought, because of me. Ellie had given her father his second chance at life, and she rejoiced.

As she lingered in his arms, Haldir felt a warm glow flow through him and he sighed in contentment, placing a kiss on the top of his daughter's head. Then he raised his eyes and met Azziel's gaze, as she stood just a few paces away in the open doorway Ellie had vacated. Haldir smiled and nodded his head approvingly. His future sister-in-law had done right by his daughter--and his late wife.

For a moment, the Elf maiden's eyes misted over then she gave Haldir a lop-sided grin, and reached back to pull Jamie out in front of her. "It was not all my doing, Brother! I had plenty of help from the princeling here."

Ellie swirled around to smile at the boy. "He not only found my gown, but he suggested to Azziel how to dress my hair," she told her father.

Jamie beamed then earnestly said, "But Adzeel painted her like a harlot so that Legolas will fall on his arse when he sees her!"

Ellie groaned and grimaced and Haldir was hard put not to laugh, especially when he saw the pained expression--fleeting though it was--on Azziel's lovely face. "Did she now? Somehow that does not surprise me!" the Elf replied, reaching out to ruffle the boy's hair even as he gave both ladies amused looks.

A moment later, Haldir felt Jamie tug on his sleeve. "Uh…what's a harlot?" And the Elf burst out laughing.

"That discussion is better left for another day, Jamie," Azziel admonished, having regained her composure and deciding it was time they left--before the child blurted out something about the honey powder. "You and I best be going now. That way we can watch Ellie arrive in the company of your friends. After all, you are standing in for Prince Legolas' father."

Jamie lifted his head proudly. "Yes, tonight I am a king!"

The boy took hold of Azziel's hand and did not hear Ellie's sharp intake of breath or see the sudden sympathy alight in her eyes at his words. For in truth, Jamie was a king--an orphaned boy-ruler without a kingdom.

Just before they left, Haldir knelt down before the boy and pressed a small package into his hand. "This is Ellie's wedding ring, Jamie. Once it belonged to her mother." Ellie gasped loudly, but the Elf took no notice. "I am entrusting it to you so that you can give it to Legolas, as King Thranduil would have done."

When Azziel and the boy were out of earshot, Ellie turned to Haldir and asked, "How could you part with it, Father? Even to give it to me?"

Haldir shrugged his shoulders, yet his eyes were overly bright when they met Ellie's troubled gaze. "Naia chose to leave her ring behind. She no longer had any use for it, but you do. I would much rather see it grace your hand than remain hidden and forgotten in a drawer."

Before she could utter a protest, Haldir chucked her softly beneath her chin and grinned. "Besides, there was no time to find another ring small enough to fit you!" Then he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out another package. "I mean for you to give Legolas its mate. They are identical, save for the size."

"But shouldn't you keep it?" Ellie asked, aghast. Naia might be dead, but Haldir was very much alive. She was reluctant to take the box.

Haldir pressed it into her hand nonetheless. "The rings belong together, Ellie. They are a matched set," he said gently. "In my heart, I will always be Naia's husband. I do not need any ring to remind me of that."

Ellie bit her lip and nodded. She did not know what to say; she did not think words could convey how deeply touched she was by Haldir's gifts. With fingers that trembled slightly, she carefully opened the small box, and was instantly enchanted. "Oh my…"

The girl was accustomed to the traditional gold bands worn by the married folk of Ravenwood. Save for the thickness of the band, and perhaps an occasional gem adorning its center, every wedding ring Ellie had seen up until now had resembled the others in shape and design, whether the ring belonged to a nobleman or a peasant.

But Haldir's--now Legolas'--wedding band was unlike any she had ever seen. It was made of gold--that tradition the Elves apparently shared with humans--but the metal was so bright and pure that it shone like a diamond. The ring was in the shape of a mallorn leaf that had curled around itself. The pointed tip of the heart-shaped leaf joined with the end of its stem. Tiny golden gemstones arranged in the form of a mallorn blossom were inlaid directly into the ring where the leaf was at its widest, while tiny inlaid emeralds adorned the stem. The craftsmanship and design were superb.

"It is the stuff of fairy tales!" Ellie exclaimed.

"No, Daughter. It is the stuff of Elves." Haldir was amused at how quickly Ellie had overcome her reluctance to accept the wedding bands.

"And my ring is just like it?"

"Indeed it is," the Elf replied with an indulgent smile.

"Oh my…" Ellie repeated.

Haldir laughed and reached for the bundle of elanor. "And here is your bouquet."

"Why, it's just like…" she exclaimed, noticing the bright yellow flowers for the first time. She was about to say "my mother's" but stopped herself. Now was not the time to bring up her past visions. Her father eyed Ellie curiously before she finally said, "…perfect!" instead, and buried her nose in the bouquet to inhale its sweet fragrance.

Haldir smiled in satisfaction. The elanor had been Naia's favorite flower. Then he gallantly bowed his head and offered an arm to his daughter. "Well, my dear, we do have a wedding to attend…and an anxious bridegroom awaiting you!"

"Legolas, anxious? I think not!" The girl giggled at the absurdity of it.

"He may hide it well, Ellie, but believe me, a three thousand year old Elf does not step into marriage lightly." Actually, Haldir was rather surprised--and impressed--by how quickly Legolas had convinced his daughter to wed him, considering all the obstacles in their path--not the least of which was Nev.

As they passed his sister's small dwelling, Haldir noticed the soft glow of candlelight through the gauzy curtains. Nevladiel had returned. Ellie apparently realized it too, for he felt her stiffen beside him. The Elf picked up his pace slightly; he wanted nothing to spoil his daughter's special day. Nevertheless, the question needed to be asked.

"I have not invited Nev to come. Do you want me to?"

Ellie almost said yes. Almost. Nevladiel was, after all, her aunt. Her blood kin…

"No, Father. I do not want her to be there." The girl lowered her head embarrassed that Haldir might somehow think less of her, but unashamed by her decision. Unashamed and unrepentant. She did not like her aunt.

Haldir squeezed her arm. "Do not feel embarrassed, Ellie. I do not want her there either."

Ellie looked up at her father in surprise.

"My sister and I had a falling out after your mother left," he said simply, as they reached the head of the winding staircase.

Ellie handed her bouquet back to Haldir and carefully lifted her skirts with both hands to avoid tripping when they started to climb down. "Nev hated my mother," she said quietly. "She thought her beneath you. She must think the same of me."

Haldir stopped and turned toward his daughter, "She is wrong."

"I know," Ellie replied, pausing momentarily to smile at her father. Nevladiel was not her problem anymore, and the girl refused to waste any more time thinking about her aunt--especially on her wedding day.

My wedding day! she marveled, feeling the excitement bubble up inside of her again. Suddenly, Ellie laughed. "I imagined many things when I set out for Lothlorien with Jamie all those months ago, but I never imagined I would be a bride! Me--a bride!"

Haldir chuckled. "You had better get used to it, Ellie. You are going to be playing that role more than once. Legolas has told me that you will be celebrating a proper wedding later, in Mirkwood."

"Mirkwood?" She seemed genuinely surprised.

"A royal wedding," her father continued. "With all the pomp and circumstance such an event engenders. Legolas is the only son of a King. At the very least, Thranduil would demand it."

"Legolas didn't mention anything to me…" Ellie said slowly.

"He will," Haldir asserted. "Thranduil is a king in every sense of the word. He has a great love of ceremony, and he is said to be one of the wealthiest beings in Middle-Earth. He will give you a grand wedding, Ellie, an opulent wedding, such as you deserve."

She wasn't sure she wanted it. "Are you going to be there?"

Now it was Haldir's turn to be surprised. "But, of course. Do you think I would ever let you go now that I have found you? I thought you understood. Wherever Legolas takes you and the boy, I mean to follow."

Ellie relaxed and smiled. With both Legolas and her father standing beside her, a royal wedding might not be so bad, after all. She might even enjoy playing Princess for a little while. As a girl growing up in the Palace of Ravenskeep, she had taken part in the ceremonial life of the Court, had attended any number of royal weddings. It was not a life she would choose for herself now--nor, thank the Valar, would Legolas choose it either--but it was a life she was familiar with. She knew what to expect and how to behave. King Thranduil would not be disappointed.

Arm in arm with Haldir, Ellie walked up the wooded path from her family's talan to the heart of Caras Galadhon at the crest of the hill. She was blissfully happy, fully alive, her soul all but soaring out of her, her life's blood singing with joy and expectation. Each step she took brought her one step closer to Legolas, and the promise of a new life with not one, but two, Elves--her husband and her father…

***

Legolas was uncharacteristically nervous as he finished tying the silver satin sash around his trim waist. He did not look nervous--his usual cool and calm façade was firmly in place--nor did he act it. But he was. When he set out on this quest with the Fellowship months ago, the last thing he had expected--or could have imagined--was that he would fall in love and win himself a bride.

For nearly three thousand years, love had eluded the Elf--and he had eluded love. He had skirted that tender emotion, scoffed at it, and thinking himself immune, had promptly discarded any intimate partner who professed it. Throughout his entire life, Legolas had steadfastly avoided making any romantic commitments, preferring instead to cater to his independent, adventurous spirit and his desire for solitude.

Until he met Ellie.

Ellie had succeeded where all others had failed, turning him around and inside out. She had changed Legolas so profoundly that he could no longer envision a life without her, a life alone.

Marriage was a gigantic leap for him, and he took it without regrets, but he was still nervous.

He was also ecstatic, enraptured by Ellie beyond reason and self-control.

"Legolas lad, if you don't hurry up, you're going to miss your own wedding!" Gimli's gruff voice boomed from just beyond the entry flap to the guest pavilion. The Fellowship had earlier left the Elf alone with his thoughts and his borrowed finery.

"That no doubt would be a blessing for Ellie," Boromir muttered under his breath, but Legolas with his keen hearing clearly heard the man.

The Elf chuckled and reached for the silver circlet that would adorn his fair head. When he had told his companions about the wedding, Legolas had not bothered to explain that he and Ellie were already married. Although Elven tradition would have called for a yearlong betrothal, such formalities were often bypassed in times of war and strife, and a mere spoken pledge was enough to bind a husband and wife--a pledge such as he and Ellie had spoken after consummating their love the night before.

Ellie was his and there was no turning back for either of them. And yet this wedding ceremony was important too. Tonight, their public exchange of vows would symbolize the start of their married life together.

"Legolas, the boy has arrived!" Gimli now bellowed. "The lassie cannot be too far behind!"

"I am coming, Gimli," he called out. The Elf closed his eyes briefly and took a deep breath. A sublime expression settled over his fine features. With infinite grace and poise, Legolas, Prince of Mirkwood, exited the pavilion and joined his companions and the other wedding guests.

They gawked.

From the elegant Elves gathered around the lawn--curious to see the March Warden's newfound daughter marry a Prince--to the hungry little hobbits standing sentry by the banquet table, they stared. From the gruff Dwarf waiting by the pavilion and the young nobleman with a tendency to sneer, to the future King of Gondor--who was coming down a stairwell with a large pitcher of wine he nearly spilled when he first beheld the Elf--they stared. Each and every one of them was struck speechless by Legolas' bright beauty.

And, indeed, he was magnificent, garbed in a long, tailored tunic of claret red and black brocade, with Lord Celeborn's slender silver circlet resting on his handsome brow and the silver satin sash adorning his waist. His tunic was high-collared and had fitted sleeves that flared slightly at the wrists but otherwise molded perfectly to his finely sculpted muscles--an archer's muscles. The tunic was fastened only down to his hips with small silver buttons, but reached almost to the floor, opening to reveal black, form-fitting trousers tucked inside new black boots. His hair was also different. Instead of a braid on each side, the Elf had pulled back a handful of platinum locks and woven them into a single herring bone plait at the back of his head. The dark coloring of his clothes complemented his unusually dark eyebrows and thick sooty eyelashes, and enhanced the splendor of his fair skin and hair.

Legolas looked every bit a royal Prince. A proud, confident Prince, sure of his place in the world, and exquisitely, breathtakingly beautiful. Had he been a maiden, he would have rivaled the Lady Galadriel herself.

Jamie immediately bounded up to him. "Holy Valar, Legolas! You look almost as pretty as Ellie!" he exclaimed, his childish exuberance breaking the spell Legolas' arrival had cast on the gathering.

Standing a few paces away, Boromir of Gondor snickered, while Aragorn, who had just walked up to them, said, "You must mean 'handsome,' Jamie."

"Noooooo…" the boy countered. "I mean pretty." The Elf smiled indulgently at him, but sneaked a glare at Boromir who was smirking again.

"I think Princess Elanae will be well pleased," Azziel spoke up, then found herself blushing furiously when Legolas' piercing gaze met hers. Gods, but he is gorgeous! she thought, mesmerized and annoyed at the same time. Azziel hadn't felt so awkward, so gawky, in ages.

"Thank you, my Lady," Legolas told her with a soft, amused voice and a dazzling smile that did funny things to her insides and left her feeling slightly breathless. Ellie was one very fortunate girl!

"I've got Ellie's ring," Jamie now said, as he handed over the small box and moved to Legolas' side, his small head held high. "I get to be your father--the King--tonight."

"It is a most important role."

Jamie nodded his head proudly, and the Fellowship--including the hobbits--gathered beside the two of them to await the bride and her father. Across the lawn, the Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn made their appearance. And next to the golden couple a bard with a dainty, hand-held harp began to play a sweet, evocative tune.

Legolas watched the bard for a moment before shifting his gaze back to the wooded path that would soon bring Ellie to him.

"Nervous?" Gimli asked as he rocked back and forth on his stubby feet.

"Nay," Legolas responded, his eyes fixed on the path.

"Well, I don't blame you," Gimli continued, "big step in a young ma...uh...Elf's life. Not to be taken lightly."

"Quite right, Master Dwarf," Legolas mumbled.

"No, I didn't expect you to agree, but take it from me, laddie, much responsibility is heaped upon you now." When the Elf did not respond Gimli continued. "You must henceforth be faithful and devoted only to her...young Ellie's needs must come first, to be sure."

A moment of silence set in after Gimli had finished speaking and Legolas hoped that was the end of the Dwarf's lecture. Gimli's ramblings were making him more nervous than he already was. Alas, the Dwarf was far from done.

"Yes...a great responsibility..." Gimli paused before he continued, "...given any thought to the wedding night?"

At that, the Elf's gaze left the path and turned to Gimli then briefly met Aragorn's amused eyes. The man caught the fleeting look of shock mixed with horror on the Elf's face.

"I...yes, the wedding night is arranged," the Elf said simply, turning once more to the path.

"Perhaps, Master Dwarf, you might offer some of your wisdom," Aragorn suggested, "a detail perhaps our friend might have overlooked...A Dwarfish custom that might prove useful." The man could have spared Legolas the torture of receiving advice from a Dwarf, but this was entirely too much fun. And truly he thought the banter would provide a distraction for the groom until his bride arrived.

"Well now, let me think...there is one custom involving a honey pot and a right bitter ale...," Gimli chuckled as he recalled the image that Legolas was at that moment hoping he did not choose to share, "...oh but young Ellie has rather small feet so that might prove difficult...let me think..." Boromir groaned loudly as the Elf turned once more toward the Dwarf.

"Really Gimli," Legolas said, his tone giving away none of the discomfort he felt, "I thank you, but I do not think now is the time..." and he motioned to the young boy half-hidden beside him. Jamie was listening with rapt fascination.

"Oh, let's not be hasty, customs are an invaluable part of every special occasion...umm..." Pip interrupted, smacking his lips, "you mentioned a honey pot, I believe?"

"...and ale...I clearly heard you say ale.." Merry was quick to point out.

"Hush, the both of you!" Sam hissed, for he too was concerned about Jamie. A child of such tender years should not be listening to such talk.

The Dwarf looked at the hobbits, then at the boy and Legolas in turn. Yes, it might be wiser to keep silent about that particular practice…

"Customs aside, my boy," Gimli said, slapping the Elf on the back, "you must remember to be gentle...the lass is but a rare and beautiful flower waiting to bloom."

Boromir groaned again and Aragorn stiffened, somewhat alarmed. Perhaps he should never have encouraged the Dwarf…

"Indeed, Gimli...I thank you, but really it is not necessary..." Legolas said.

"She may be shy at first..." the Dwarf continued.

"Honestly Gimli, I'm sure I can..."

"...and she may even cry or resist or perhaps try and run from you..."

"Why would Ellie do that?" Jamie asked with a worried frown, stepping around Legolas. Frodo tried to cover the boy's ears, but Jamie brushed his hands off.

"Gimli, there's no need to..." Legolas said more forcefully, but the Dwarf was so bent on giving him advice, that he heard neither the Elf nor the boy.

"...you must be firm yet gentle, Legolas...when first you begin, it's important to carefully..."

"Gimli!" Aragorn hissed, cuffing the Dwarf on the head. Gimli stopped and turned toward the Ranger. "She is coming," Aragorn said, pointing towards the path.

And so she was.

"Ellie…" Legolas whispered reverently, his eyes alighting on her small form…

She had not expected so many guests to show up for the wedding. As Ellie climbed the last few steps to the crest of the hill, she was amazed to see a crowd of Elves nearly as large as the one that had greeted the Fellowship the night before. She quickly scanned their faces, recognizing many from the memory of her parents' wedding, and felt a pang of regret that her two uncles would not be amongst them. But Rumil and Orophin were not due to arrive for another two or three days at the least, and by then, the Fellowship--and Legolas--would be gone.

Where are you, Legolas? she wondered anxiously, feeling the weight of his eyes upon her, but unable to see him, although she picked out Aragorn and Boromir easily enough. Where are you, my love? Through the crystalline spray of the fountain she thought she saw a flash of blonde and her heart quickened. Then Legolas moved forward with Jamie in tow, stepping onto the small brick-paved square next to the stone fountain, and her heart stopped.

"You are too beautiful," she whispered, so awestruck that she was unaware of having spoken the words out loud.

Haldir glanced down at his daughter and quipped, "Why, thank you, Ellie."

She gasped in surprise, then looked at her father's preening smile and giggled before turning toward Legolas again. Even in a crowd, his presence was compelling, almost overwhelming, captivating her eyes and heart and soul. A sensuous wave passed between them when their gazes locked across the green expanse, and a smile of enchantment touched her lips. Despite the sudden weakness in her knees, Ellie's feet seemed to be drifting along on a cloud as she made her way toward her beloved Legolas.

At the very instant their eyes met, the world had ceased to exist around him. Gimli and his ramblings, the Fellowship, the guests, the pavilion and the green lawn, even the young boy who now clutched his hand in excitement, vanished from the Elf's consciousness. He did not notice Haldir walking arm in arm with her. Ellie, and only Ellie, filled his senses. Like a single bright flame burning in utter darkness, he could see naught else.

Legolas was enthralled by her dark and delicate beauty. He had never seen Ellie look so lovely, confident and poised. So regal.

The bright autumnal red and gold of her gown enhanced her rich coloring. Most Elves were too fair and pale to wear such opulent colors, but on Ellie they were exquisite. Her rose-tinted skin glowed and shimmered beneath the fairy lights, her eyes looked darker, more alluring than ever, and her hair…To Legolas, her hair was the velvet black of a starless night.

Aragorn had Arwen, but Legolas had found his own Evening Star.

With a beatific smile on his face, the Elf slowly shifted his gaze downward over her body, his eyes widening with pleasure. The tight bodice of Ellie's dress clung to her soft curves like a second skin, cinching her waist, making it even tinier. He had spanned her naked waist with his hands only last night, and now his fingers tingled with the need to span it again. With the need to undo her laces…

As he waited for Ellie, Legolas did not hear the animated whispers and exclamations of delight around him. He no longer heard the splatter of the fountain, the rush of the stream, or the crystal notes of the bard's harp. The only sounds the Elf could hear were his own frantic heartbeats and Ellie's quickened breaths and gentle footfalls as she approached. He was no longer even aware of the rich aroma of food on the heavily laden table or the smell of fresh, clean forest around them. Instead, he captured Ellie's scent in the evening breeze, breathed in deeply the sweet fragrance of her hair and skin, and her bouquet of elanor.

Until at last they stood face to face, alone in the world.

She was perfect. She was his. Legolas' face kindled with love and wonder and admiration. His eyes were like summer lightning.

And when he bent down to steal a kiss, those eyes seared her with such sizzling intensity that she felt as if a real lightning bolt had dropped out of the distant sky and struck her…

Gimli and the hobbits chuckled, and the other guests smiled and muttered among themselves in amusement to see the groom kiss the bride before exchanging vows. Legolas and Ellie were so entranced with one another, they did not even notice until Haldir cleared his throat. After a few moments, everyone quieted in anticipation, and Haldir began to speak with great reverence, accompanied by the poignant music of the harp. The ceremony had begun.

In a tradition that spanned the ages, the March Warden took hold of his daughter's hand and blessed her in the name of Varda, the maker of the stars and the most beloved of the Valar to the Elves.* Haldir spoke in the Common Tongue, and not Quenya or Sindarin, so that Ellie could understand every word. He squeezed her hand tightly, conveying with his blessing and his touch all the love and good wishes in his heart. As she briefly met her father's eyes, her own eyes welled with emotion.

"I love you," Ellie mouthed silently, when Haldir finished speaking, and the Elf heard her as if she had shouted it out loud.

Jamie then stepped forward, still holding Legolas' hand. Just as he was instructed to do by Azziel on their way to the lawn, the boy blessed the groom in the name of Manwe, the compassionate and wise lord of the Valar, and Varda's spouse. The boy spoke clearly, with dignity and pride, as befitted a King in the making, impressing all those who were gathered there. The sound of his young voice, now seemingly so grown up, affected Ellie deeply and the tears in her eyes spilled slowly down her cheeks. Even Legolas was moved almost to tears, as a telltale knot rose in his throat. Jamie was a son any father would be proud of.

At last the boy finished his prayer for Legolas. Haldir and Jamie now together uttered a blessing in the name of Iluvatar, the Creator, and joined Legolas' and Ellie's hands, as Azziel discreetly took hold of the bridal bouquet and the Fellowship inched ever closer to the wedding party. This was the moment everyone had been waiting for. This was the moment Legolas and Ellie would pledge their love for one another before their friends, and join their lives together for all time.

Hand in hand, the Elf drew Ellie closer and smiled down at her winsome face, the warmth emanating from his body so soothing and sweet that she briefly closed her eyes and sighed in contentment. Legolas had attended countless weddings throughout his life, heard the same vows spoken over and over again across the centuries, so many times that they had become a litany in his mind and he could recite them word for word. But he would not recite them now. For the love of Ellie, he would speak words from his heart, unplanned and unrehearsed. Legolas took a deep breath, the knot in his throat so large that he almost gulped. When she met his eyes again, he finally spoke. His voice was low and husky, thick with emotion.

"Ellie, all that I am and all that I have, I offer to you with deepest joy. I promise you my love, my fullest devotion, my most tender care. I pledge to you my life as a loving and faithful husband." Legolas paused, and with a hand that trembled slightly, took Ellie's ring from his pocket and placed the slender band on her right index finger. His gaze never left her face. His eyes were misty, and infinitely tender, as he continued. "Now we stand together, Ellie. In our hearts and souls, it will always be so. I look with great expectation down the path of our tomorrows, and I promise you we will soon walk that path side by side, hand in hand, and heart to heart, never to be parted again." The Elf had never meant anything more in his life than that promise.

Ellie stared at him with wide, luminous eyes, so enthralled with his words, that she momentarily forgot it was her turn to make vows. She realized it with a start when Legolas' lips suddenly twitched in amusement, but just as she opened her mouth, Jamie hissed, "It's your turn, Ellie." Everyone laughed good-naturedly, including the bride. And with a shrug of her shoulders and a slightly chagrined smile, Ellie began to speak. Like her new husband, she would not recite her vows from memory. Instead, she chose to respond to his pledge.

"Today, I marry my dearest friend, the one I will live with, dream with, and love. Here in the presence of my loved ones and companions, I receive you, Legolas, with deepest joy into my life. From this moment forward, I will love and cherish you, prize you above all others and remain faithful and devoted to you for…" Suddenly overcome with emotion, Ellie's voice faded to a hushed stillness. She was much too happy, too stirred by what was happening to her--to them--to continue. But when Legolas squeezed her hand reassuringly, Ellie recovered her composure, took the ring she had been holding in her left hand and gently placed it on his right index finger. Then she lifted her gaze again, and said in a soft, evocative voice that brought tears to many an eye, "…for all time. I too look with great longing down the path of our tomorrows, when we will walk together, side by side, two souls with but a single thought, two hearts that beat as one, never to be parted again."

And so it was done. Legolas and Elanae, Prince and Princess of Mirkwood, were married before the eyes of their friends and loved ones. In the next instant, the Elf crushed her small body within his embrace and kissed her.

"My beloved wife…" Legolas muttered against Ellie's mouth, his voice silvery and seductive, sending shivers of pleasure down her spine. "I can hardly believe it!"

"My beloved husband…" Ellie replied.

He kissed her again, trailing his lips across her cheek, surprised to taste the honey powder on her skin. Only his most experienced lovers had ever worn it. "I want to get you alone!" he now said.

"That, my friend, is going to have to wait," Aragorn interrupted as he walked up to them, giving Legolas' shoulder a congratulatory slap. Haldir hugged and kissed his daughter and Jamie sandwiched himself between the newlyweds, beaming happily at both. Legolas lifted the boy into his arms and Ellie now turned to hug Azziel, just as the rest of the Fellowship surrounded the wedding party, followed by the Lorien Elves. Amid a cacophony of hoots and cheers and excited voices, Ellie and Legolas graciously received the well wishes of their guests. Someone handed the couple goblets filled with rich Elven wine, and the bride and groom toasted each other and kissed yet again, to the delight of those gathered around them.

All of a sudden, the crowd parted, and grew quiet and respectful, as the Lord and Lady of the Golden Wood approached the Prince and Princess. Warm, serene smiles graced Celeborn's and Galadriel's lips. But when they were just a few paces shy of the newlyweds, the Lady stopped and turned in the direction of the city gates, her smile instantly fading. Her pale blue eyes took on a faraway look, and she tilted her fair head slightly to one side, as if listening keenly to a distant sound or thought.

"What do you see, my dear?" Lord Celeborn asked, his voice and countenance evincing his concern.

The Lorien Elves and the Fellowship watched and waited, some of them worried, others merely curious. But Ellie was terribly frightened. Oh, gods…what now? She clutched Legolas' hand almost convulsively, her heart pounding painfully and out of control inside her chest. What awful thing has happened? She could not see it, but she was buffeted by waves of pain and anguish and confusion. Waves from a life about to be extinguished. Oh, gods, no…

Shifting Jamie's weight to one arm, Legolas embraced his young bride with the other, his handsome brow furrowing when he felt the fear mount inside of her, felt the tremors begin to shake her body. Standing at his daughter's other side, Haldir felt them too, and drew close to her, as he met Legolas' troubled gaze.

"Ellie?"

Just then, the Lady Galadriel turned and briskly walked the last few steps to where the girl stood. She cupped Ellie's chin and smiled with great tenderness, her beautiful eyes filling with compassion.

"You must be strong for your family now, Elanae. You must be strong for him…"

In the next instant, a clamor of Elven horns arose from the direction of the city gates, a loud, insistent clamor that resonated inside each and every person present, tolling a warning knell inside their minds, filling their hearts with fear.

Something awful had indeed happened…

********************************************************************************

*Traditionally, the bride's mother would utter this blessing, but because Naia was dead, Haldir chose to do it himself. Legolas, in turn, had asked Jamie to stand in for his father in uttering the groom's blessing.

To heavenbound, Silmarwen, Piratey Elf, Lindaleriel, glynnis, Unski, kittynip9, DesolateAznVamp, macgyver70, nap-003, and dragonfly: THANK YOU SO MUCH for taking the time to review. Sometimes, what might seem like a small gesture to you is the only thing that keeps me writing--especially during hectic times when it is hard to find my muse.

To Spunky Sparrow: What can I say? Your INCREDIBLE review floored me, and, believe it or not, inspired me to finish this chapter today. It has inspired me to look ahead to the next chapter. And it has led me to think that perhaps one day I can actually write my own original fantasy romance fiction! Thank you so much. I wish you the best of luck with your new LOTR story. When things slow down for me, I will be sure to check out your POTC fic. I love that movie too!

To elvesmagic010: I feel honored that you liked my last chapter so much that you read it so many times (over 5 million times you said?!) I'm that way too! My favorite books are sorely worn out from my constant thumbing through.

To Kwannom: Well, girl, life indeed has a way of getting TOO complicated! A 24-hour day is much too short for me these days. I am so RELIEVED that you were able to find a beta and continue with your incredible story (Attention readers who like Haldir: check out HALDIR AND HALETH!) And Kwannom, thank you, thank you, thank you for your kind words and understanding. You are one remarkable lady!

To staineddown: While I have made no final decision yet, I will admit that I am indeed leaning toward sparing Haldir's life. I have developed his character so much in this revised version of the story that I honestly think my readers would find it unforgivable if I kill him off a la Peter Jackson.

To Sun+Moon,Earth+Sky: Thanks for the Nev input! There is still some time left before Nev's demise and I am mulling over a couple of causes for it: Orcs/Uruks being one, and an enraged Haldir or Legolas being the other. Yikes!

To Crecy: I can guarantee that birth control will definitely be a contentious issue between Legolas and Ellie in the years to come! ;-)

To maybe tonight: I never received your email regarding your suggestion for Nev's demise and I realized that you might no longer have my email address! Please let me know if that is the case and I will drop you a line!

To Demonic Pyro Freak (otherwise known as the proud owner of a katana sword!): Thank you, ma'am for the katana info. Look for your beloved sword to appear in the last quarter of the story!

To Lara Roberts: I'm with you! I wouldn't mind having a closet full of Elven dresses! However, I can honestly tell you, I probably wouldn't look as good in them as you do. I am a diminutive 5 feet tall!

To Nevasaiel: Believe me, there are times when I feel that my river of inspiration is running dry! But it is important not to give up. Sometimes music or reading a passage from LOTR or watching one of the films again is all it takes to inspire me anew. By the way, it pleased me to no end to know that my last chapter made you laugh! ;-)

To Sweetazzhoney: So glad you liked your alter ego! She's a spunky gal, isn't she? You know, if you had never written that review "asking" me to include you in my story, Azziel would NEVER have been born. I owe you a big thanks!

To Briamber: I cannot say it enough times how much I look forward to reading your reviews. In answer to your question about Naia's Ilissan heritage, Haldir knew NOTHING about it until Ellie told him the day they met. The only ones in Lorien who knew Naia's secret were Galadriel and Celeborn and they respected her wishes for confidentiality. You must remember, Naia had been on the run and in fear for her life for nearly 12 years before setting foot in Lorien. If I ever write a Haldir-Naia prequel, I will get into more detail about the reasons for her silence.

To queenofdespair216: This story is nowhere near ending. Legolas will leave Lorien and so will Ellie, and at one point, she will be reunited with the Fellowship.

To Lady Vendea: I am so pleased you liked the last chapter. I don't often write light-hearted fare, and when I do, I'm never quite sure how my readers will receive it. LOL!

To Angel Queen: Your review was a hoot to read! I was most impressed by your "waves from her puddled form on the floor" comment. With colorful words like that, you have the makings of a true writer! Incidentally, you will be happy to know that I most probably will NOT kill Haldir off.

To Nimthoron: Orcs and Uruks will definitely be making an appearance in the story. But will they be responsible for Nev's demise? I am not sure yet…

To anon-101-6: Heh, heh! I'm sooooooo glad you appreciated the humor in the last chapter. I don't write enough of that, do I? As for the wedding night…well, that's not coming up quite yet. Sorry…:-(

Thank you once again for reading my story! If I have left anyone inadvertently out, I do apologize.