Elf Wedding
It was quiet around the fire where Aragorn sat with Legolas, Faramir, Failon and the twins and Jamie. Eldarion and Polodrin joined them with Allassante in tow and she sat by her father. He glanced at her with a cocked brow.
"You sit with your father when your captain is still near?" Aragorn asked.
"He and his Rangers are debating their plans. I was… hindering their free discussion," Allassante said.
"Let them go, daughter," Aragorn said, "They have their troubles to deal with."
"Perhaps they should have help," Jamie interrupted, and Thelyn just hung his head.
"Not now, Jamie," Thelyn said.
"If not now, then when?" Jamie said in annoyance. "I want to leave, I need to leave."
Aragorn looked at her with concern, "Where?"
"She wants to go back to the wood to help the Avari that are trapped," Legolas said. "If anyone can help with trees, it is Jamie."
"No!" Aragorn said angrily. "You ask me to pardon him and it is done, do not ask me for more today. You owe them nothing!"
"I am not your subject," Jamie said angrily. "I want to do this, no one asked me to."
"Jamie…" Thelyn warned.
Aragorn stood, and Jamie stood to meet his gaze with a face set in stone, "I made a friend a promise. I could not keep it before, but now I can, and they need me now more than ever. Please."
"You are still mending, you need to rest. Traveling across such harsh country in winter is difficult enough for the healthy, but for you…" Aragorn said.
"I am going," Jamie said. "I know what to expect, I've been there before."
"Thelyn, say something, she's your betrothed," Aragorn said in frustration.
"I have already spoken, and she will not be swayed. I have agreed to take her," Thelyn said.
"Surely I am not alone in my reservations," Aragorn said, glancing around at the others by the fire.
Alcon just shrugged, "I'm always up for a little adventure."
"They are kinsmen," Legolas said. "There are so few of us left on these shores…"
"Let her go father, the Rangers will take good care of her," Allassante said.
"I'm surprised you don't want to go," Aragorn said with a frown,
"Well, I would if I thought you'd let me," Allassante said seriously. "I am old enough to do as I please."
"Indeed, like riding alone in the hills where anyone can attack you," Aragorn reminded her. "Am I not King of this country?"
"Yes, father, but today you are short tempered," Allassante said. "Jamie has to go, you know that."
"We'll discuss this when we get back tomorrow," Aragorn said. "I must think on this."
Aragorn left the fire and found solitude by the horses. He didn't like being pushed into decisions. The Avari continued to try his patience, and he didn't like the way Jamie was manipulated into helping. There was a reason he never told her about the wood. He knew if she found out, she'd want to help. The Avari brought their troubles on themselves. They deserved whatever they got.
"It's been a long time since I've seen anything make you this angry," Legolas said as he joined his friend by the horses.
"Yes, it has," Aragorn said. "Ondollo was the worst kind of villain. He came to me in the form of a friend and told me what I wanted to hear. I have always trusted Elves; he has ruined that for me."
"One lord is not a country," Legolas said. "I want to go and help them, and I will take responsibility for Jamie."
"Let Thelyn take responsibility for her," Aragorn said with a sigh. "If she's going to travel across Middle Earth again, let them marry first. It will simplify things."
Legolas eyebrows shot up and he pursed his lips thoughtfully. "You are jesting."
Aragorn frowned, "I wish I was, but she is right. Her gift makes her the only one to help."
"And the wedding?" Legolas asked.
"A small gathering will suffice," Aragorn said. "Once she is wed, she is no longer my responsibility, and can travel where she wills."
Legolas smiled, "So, you take the easy way out. If she is not your responsibility, you do not have to grant her permission. Clever."
"I didn't say that," Aragorn said quickly.
"You didn't have to," Legolas said. "And what of the Avari? If they want to leave their wood, I will allow them to live in Ithilien."
"It is your wood," Aragorn said. "I trust your judgment."
"And Allassante?"
"She is not going," Aragorn said firmly. "If that captain loves her, he will come back and court her properly."
Legolas smiled, "If you ask him, he would say he has already courted her and only awaits your approval."
Aragorn frowned, "I dare him to say it to my face. Arrogant Avari."
"What did you expect him to say?" Thelyn asked her.
"I expected him to say goodbye and good luck," Jamie said. "Who made him my guardian anyway?"
Alcon chuckled, "He's the King; he does what he wants."
"Don't be rude, Alcon," Eldarion said. "A maid needs a guardian, Jamie. Since you have no family here, he volunteered."
"Why don't you get some rest, Jamie," Thelyn said. "We'll talk to him tomorrow."
Jamie just nodded and went to bed. Thelyn felt a little lost and went for a walk. It was hard to offer comfort when he was forced to stay at arm's length. In a camp with two hundred chaperones, he could only offer words, and she needed more. But, if they were married, there would be no problem. He could take her wherever she wanted to go. He sighed and looked up at the moon. Nearly full. The next time it was full would be Yenearsira, the winter Solstice. But the Avari would not be able to hold out that long. If the journey was to do any good, they would have to leave immediately.
In the morning, Jamie rose early and made a point of avoiding Aragorn. She was being immature and petty, but she didn't care. She was tired of being pushed around. She ached all over which didn't soften her mood, and she was tired. After breakfast, she and Thelyn mounted up and did a good job of losing themselves amongst the riders.
Aragorn gave the signal for them to move out, and kept pace beside Faramir and Legolas.
"Where are Jamie and Thelyn?" Aragorn asked.
"Avoiding you," Legolas said.
Faramir laughed, "Let her go, Aragorn. If she stays you will not have a moment of peace."
"She can go when she is married," Aragorn said.
Faramir shook his head, "And I thought I was stubborn."
"When's the wedding?" Legolas asked.
"As soon as you can put together a small feast," Aragorn said. "Thelyn's family can get here by tonight."
"I take it back," Faramir said. "You're stubborn and shrewd."
Aragorn glared at him, "I'll tell you what, I'll be Steward and you can be King."
"Uh, no thanks," Faramir said. "You can keep it."
"Yeah, that's what I thought," Aragorn said as he looked at the trail ahead and picked up the pace.
Legolas just laughed, "You had your chance, Faramir."
"Like I want his job," Faramir said seriously.
It was still mid morning when the riders arrived at the gates of Emyn Arnen. Those who came from Ithilien went back to the wood and the knights and Rangers from Minas Tirith rode to the docks to boars the river ships. But Aragorn stayed in Emyn Arnen to deal with Jamie and her newest quest. He waited in the main hall for her, and was happy to get the business concluded when he saw her walk in. She arrived with an entourage of Elves, Thelyn, Alcon and the Avari. Aragorn stood and beckoned for them to come over.
"Today I fulfill my final duty as your guardian, Jamie," Aragorn said. "Faramir is preparing a feast, and Failon has gone to gather your family, Thelyn. Tonight you two will wed and tomorrow you will answer to your husband. Do what you will."
Jamie went pale, but said nothing.
Thelyn looked at Aragorn with a twinkle in his eye and a silly grin. "Really?"
Aragorn sighed, "Go prepare, I am through with decisions." He turned on his heels and retreated to his room. He needed a vacation.
Allassante and Nyére strolled in and greeted everyone.
"Welcome back!" Nyére said with a smile and then looked at Jamie's ashen face. "What's wrong?"
"She's getting married in a few hours," Alcon said with a grin. "It's a little overwhelming to get what you want, isn't it Jamie?"
Thelyn looked at her with concern, "Hey, it'll be just fine."
Jamie gave him a smile, "Oh, I know, it was just a surprise is all."
Thelyn smiled with relief. "Yes it was," he said brightly. "I've got to get cleaned up. I'm sure Nyére can help you get ready."
"Of course, come on Jamie," Nyére said as she put an arm around her shoulder and led her away.
Allassante just looked at Cilmo and gave him half a smile. "I will be returning to Minas Tirith with my father in the morning," she said sadly.
Cilmo stepped forward and took her hand. He led her a little ways away so he could speak to her privately.
"I understand," Cilmo said. "I will return to you when the business of my homeland is settled."
"He may not… I don't know if he will…" Allassante stammered.
"I will win his favor," Cilmo said firmly. "Have no fear. I made my choice, Ally, you will be mine. No man shall bar my way, not even a King." He gave her a quick kiss on the forehead and backed away. "We must prepare for our journey. I'll see you at the feast."
Cilmo turned and left the hall with his Rangers following. Allassante watched until he was gone and turned to go to her room but was confronted by her red haired cousins.
"What's so great about him?" Alcon asked.
"Oh, go jump in the pond," Allassante said in annoyance.
"He's going to have to work hard to win your father over after everything that's happened," Thelyn said.
"That is certain," Alcon agreed.
Allassante just glared at Thelyn, "Aren't you getting married tonight?"
Thelyn's face instantly sobered, and Alcon looked at him with sympathy.
"Relax, Thelyn. I'll ride home and get you something to wear, and you just go get cleaned up and try to unwind," Alcon said.
"But, the gift," Thelyn said. "I don't have one yet."
"I do not think she will care," Alcon said seriously.
"I care," Thelyn said. "This is not the way this was supposed to go. She's still hurt. Why did I let myself get so excited? She's obviously not ready for this on a moment's notice."
"Every bride is nervous no matter how long they have to prepare," Allassante said. "Anvanime threw up before her wedding, and she's the happiest wife I know."
Alcon cocked a brow, "Really? Oh, I wish I'd have known that before."
"Don't tell her I told you," Allassante said. "I mean that!"
Alcon smirked and shook his head, "Oh, no, no, no. I'd never mention it."
"The point is, don't worry. It'll be fine," Allassante said. "I'll go look after Jamie, you just get yourself together."
Thelyn gulped and nodded and Allassante left the brothers alone in the hall.
"So, you're finally breaking up our partnership for a woman," Alcon said with a grin. "You're lucky I like her."
"Shut up, Alcon," Thelyn said. "Just go get me something to wear that doesn't have the dust of Mordor all over it."
Alcon's expression turned serious and he nodded. "I'll be back as soon as I can. Just relax, it's just a wedding."
Alcon left and Thelyn went to his room. He got a fire going and called for someone to bring some water up so he could bathe. He tried not to think of the look on Jamie's face, but he couldn't shake it from his mind. She looked absolutely terrified.
Jamie sat in the tub while Nyére poured another bucket of steaming water over her head. The bath smelled like lavender and Jamie scrubbed the grime of the past week from her hair and skin. She couldn't believe she was getting married already. Nyére stoked up the fire so Jamie wouldn't catch a chill when she got out of the tub.
"Go ahead and soak for a little while, it'll help with the aches and pains," Nyére said.
"What aches?" Jamie asked.
"Don't try to put up a brave front for me, I can see the bruises," Nyére said. "Your ribs are probably tender."
Jamie's expression was bleak. "You have no idea. And I'm supposed to get married tonight."
"Thelyn is no fool, Jamie. He's a gentle soul, especially with you. He won't hurt you," Nyére assured her.
"But I thought it was supposed to hurt the first time," Jamie said.
"Oh, that. Not really," Nyére said. "Just a little. What I meant was he will be careful of your injuries. He looked just as nervous as you."
"What's he got to be nervous about, he's a guy," Jamie scoffed.
"It is his wedding too," Nyére said in surprise.
Jamie blushed, "I guess."
There was a knock at the door and Jamie sunk down in the water nervously.
"Who is it?" Nyére asked.
"Allassante," Allassante said.
Nyére opened the door and Allassante sat on the bed and gave Jamie a smile. "He's nervous."
"He's nervous? I'm terrified," Jamie exclaimed.
"You love him?" Allassante asked.
"Yes," Jamie said.
"You know he loves you," Allassante pressed.
"Yes," Jamie conceded.
"And you trust him," Nyére clarified.
"Of course," Jamie said.
"Then there's no reason to be scared," Nyére said seriously. "Now, I have just the gown for you."
Allassante followed her to the wardrobe and they found a soft willow green gown trimmed with rich embroidered leaves on the collar, cuffs and hem. It was like a breath of spring, and it fit Jamie's personality perfectly.
"Here it is," Nyére said holding it up. "You get dried off, and we'll do something with your hair before you dress."
Jamie spent the afternoon in a robe with two princesses playing with her hair. The three friends told stories about men and elves and love all day. Finally they helped Jamie dress and looked her over before leaving for the feast. Her hair was a pile of soft curls on her head with dried lavender in it. The gown was a little long, but not by much.
"You look great," Allassante said seriously.
"Thelyn's lucky," Nyére said.
"Definitely," Allassante agreed. "A rascal like that should count his blessings!"
Jamie laughed, "Well, I feel lucky too."
"It's almost time to go," Allassante said.
There was a knock at the door and Allassante answered by opening it. Aragorn stood there, dressed in a fine tunic with the white tree embroidered on it. His cloak was a rich black velvet pinned with the Elfstone brooch given to him by Lady Galadriel.
"Is Jamie ready?" he asked his daughter.
Allassante just stepped back so he could look and Aragorn just stared. He'd made a number of serious decisions these past few days, and this one suddenly tugged at his conscience.
He glanced at his daughter and just said, "Why don't you ladies go to the hall, I need to talk to Jamie for a minute."
Allassante and Nyére slipped out the door and Aragorn forced a smile. "You look beautiful, Jamie."
"It's the gown," Jamie said with a smile. "Nyére and I are near the same size."
Aragorn frowned. Jamie shouldn't have to wear a borrowed wedding gown. "I'm sorry I sprung this on you, Jamie. If you want to wait to marry, I'll understand. You have my permission to go whether you marry tonight or not."
"But Thelyn…" Jamie started to say.
"Thelyn begged me to let you wait," Aragorn said. "He wants you to be ready, and to have the wedding you deserve."
Jamie was surprised by that, and she was touched. "I don't want to wait," Jamie said. "I'm ready if he is."
Aragorn smiled. He could see confidence in her eyes and knew she meant it. "All right then, Jamie. Allow me to escort you to the hall." Aragorn offered her his arm and she took it. He led her down the hall and suddenly paused. "You ever see an Elf wedding?"
"Only Nyére's," Jamie said seriously.
"That wasn't an Elf wedding," Aragorn said. "I'll just tell you that you don't have to do anything but stand there until I ask you if you accept Thelyn as your husband. Just answer yes. That's about it."
"Sounds simple," Jamie said with a smile.
"Oh, yeah," Aragorn said as he led her down the hall. "All the bride has to do is look pretty. Thelyn and I have all the lines."
Thelyn was pacing in front of the doors to the hall. He had just sent Aragorn to ask Jamie if she wanted to wait, and he had no idea what was happening. He didn't want to rush her, and this wedding was very rushed. He expected to see Aragorn return to tell him she wasn't coming to the hall to marry him.
"Why so nervous?" Failon asked.
"I told Aragorn to leave it up to her if she wants to marry tonight or not," Thelyn said seriously.
Legolas looked at Thelyn in surprise, and then respect. "You surprise me, Thelyn. You have been counting the minutes until Yenearsira, and now you are willing to wait?"
"If she is not ready, I will wait however long she needs," Thelyn said seriously.
Failon put a hand on Thelyn's forehead, "Are you ill? Is this the same brother who rushes headlong into danger and damn the consequences?"
Thelyn looked pale, but said nothing. Cilmo, who'd been leaning on the door, suddenly smiled.
"Come here and open the door, Thelyn. The King is presenting your bride," Cilmo said.
Alcon laughed and slapped his brother on the back. "Go on, go get your bride."
Thelyn smiled, and then his face turned serious as he stood in front of the doors. It was a formal moment and he could not crack a smile no matter how excited he was. He reached for the handles…
When Aragorn led her through the side door to the hall, Jamie wondered what to expect. They walked up the steps of the dais and Aragorn greeted the small gathering of guests.
"Thank you all for coming so quickly," Aragorn said. "Lady Jamie has been in my care for only a short time, but I have grown very fond of her…"
The main doors to the hall swung open and Thelyn stood in the doorway dressed in a fine white and grey tunic with a grey cloak. On either side of him stood Alcon and Failon, with Legolas and Cilmo standing behind him. Jamie smiled when she saw him, looking as handsome as ever.
"Who interrupts the King in this hall?" Faramir demanded as he stood and stepped forward.
"I, Thelyn, Son of Haldir and the Hiri Nolwe!" Thelyn said firmly and then boldly marched toward the dais with his escort following. He stopped at the base of the steps and bowed.
"State your business!" Aragorn said, trying to keep a straight face when Legolas smirked at him.
"I come to claim this woman as my bride," Thelyn said boldly.
"By what right do you claim her?" Aragorn asked.
"By the oaths we have made to each other," Thelyn said. "I pledged to her my heart, and she has pledged hers."
Aragorn turned to Jamie and asked, "Do you accept this worthy Elf as your husband?"
"I do," Jamie said.
"Then come, Thelyn, Son of Haldir and the Hiri Nolwe, and receive your bride," Aragorn said.
Thelyn climbed the steps and Aragorn put Jamie's hand in his. "Here is your bride, Thelyn of Ithilien. Guard her well in your keeping."
"With my life," Thelyn said firmly.
The room was filled with cheers and Aragorn was going to announce the beginning of the feast, but Failon stepped forward.
"It is tradition for the Groom's family to bestow a gift on the bride to welcome her. I am the oldest of our clan here so the honor is mine," Failon said. He stepped around behind Jamie and put a necklace over her head and clasped it. The pendant was an intricate design with several Mallorn leaves woven around a bright green stone. "Welcome sister."
Jamie blushed and Thelyn smiled. He was pleased to have his groom's gift after all. Aragorn just smiled and announced the beginning of the feast.
"Well, with that all settled, break out the wine and let's celebrate!" Aragorn said.
There was more cheering and Legolas just laughed and looked at Aragorn. "Gimli is going to be upset that he missed this."
"He'll get over it," Aragorn said with a chuckle. "When he comes to visit I'll throw him his own feast."
Thelyn and Jamie sat at the head table and enjoyed the meal. There was an impressive fare despite the haste in which it was thrown together. Everyone ate their fill and the wine was passed several times. When the deserts were brought out and the Ale was served, Aragorn elbowed Thelyn.
"Your bride is exhausted and you will be traveling tomorrow," Aragorn said meaningfully.
Thelyn nodded and leaned over to Jamie, "It is late, let's go."
Jamie smiled shyly and Thelyn led her out the side door. Just as he opened the door for them to leave the hall he heard someone shout.
"And there they go!" Legolas shouted.
Thelyn cocked a brow and turned to see Legolas grinning and laughing along with the rest of the hall.
Failon just roared with laughter and when he finally composed himself he just had to ask, "How much wine have you had tonight?"
"Oh, not much, I just thought with Gimli gone, someone had to say it," Legolas said with a smile.
Alcon chuckled and raised his glass, "To Gimli, most amusing Dwarf at any wedding."
"To Gimli," Legolas agreed and the table all drank. Legolas missed his friend, and looked forward to their next visit.
Out in the hall, Thelyn pulled Jamie into a hug, but was careful not to squeeze too hard. "At last you are mine, and we can be together."
"I'm sorry about the way it worked out," Jamie said. "If you don't want to take me back to that forest, I'll understand."
Thelyn just lifted Jamie into his arms and headed down the corridor. "When will you learn that I do what I please?"
"Then you don't mind?" Jamie asked.
"It pleases me to make you happy," Thelyn said, "And it pleases me that you are happy helping others. Of course I don't mind. I only worry over your health. I know you were hurt more than just a bump on the head, though you would keep it from me."
"Allassante talks too much," Jamie said in annoyance.
Thelyn climbed the steps up to the south tower and just smiled. "Indeed she does, but that is a moot point. From tonight on you are in my care, Jamie. Do you still trust me?"
"I've always trusted you," Jamie said as she rested her head against his broad chest.
Thelyn kissed the top of her head as he reached the landing. He paused and whispered, "My beautiful bride, never will I break your trust."
He followed the hall a short way to a room that was open. The soft candlelight spilled out into the dark hall and he brought her inside and nudged the door closed with his elbow. It was a simple room with simple furniture, but it smelled fresh and the fire was going strong. Thelyn carried her to the bed and gently set her down. He smiled when he saw her hands worrying in her lap and her cheeks darken with a blush.
"It is our wedding night," he said.
Jamie smiled shyly, "Yes it is."
Thelyn sat down beside her and put his arm around her. "I'm tired, why don't we just get some sleep?"
Jamie looked at him in surprise, "But… don't you want to…?"
Thelyn stopped her question with a kiss. He wanted to crush her in his arms and devour her with passionate kisses. His body ached to join with hers and make love to her until the dawn, but he knew her pain was greater than she would admit. He kept his kiss gentle and just held her. Jamie wrapped her arms around him and tried to pull him closer, but he just broke the kiss.
"I want it more than you know, but our first joining should not be painful," Thelyn said. "There is a dressing room over there. Go and change for bed."
Jamie didn't know what to say. She just stood and went to the changing room without a word. She knew he was being chivalrous, but somehow, pain or not, she was disappointed. She found a nightgown laid out on a plush bench and she frowned. This was not what she'd expected. But as she removed the tight bodice and stretched to pull the gown over her head, the sharp stabbing pain in her ribs brought her back to reality in a hurry. He was right, she hurt. She put on the gown and took a deep breath before timidly peeking out of the dressing room.
Thelyn was already in bed, leaning back against several pillows. The blanket covered him to his waist and his chest was bare. Jamie felt a flutter of excitement in her stomach. He was gorgeous. His chest was broad and well defined and he had a washboard stomach that any body builder would kill for. She found herself wondering what he was wearing under that blanket, if he was wearing anything at all. She suddenly blushed crimson just as Thelyn saw her. He smiled warmly and held his hand out to her.
"Come here, Jamie," he said softly.
Jamie stepped out of the dressing room and Thelyn just stared at her. She passed between him and the fireplace, and he could see her silhouette right through the fabric of her nightgown. He felt his arousal pressing painfully against his breeches and he tried not to groan. He'd promised her he would wait, and he wouldn't back down from a promise to this woman, even if it killed him. He pulled the blanket back and she slipped into bed beside him. She lay back against the pillow and he propped himself up on his elbow and gazed at her proudly.
"I have the fairest bride in all of Middle Earth," Thelyn said with a smile.
Jamie blushed but looked at him seriously, "I'm not afraid, Thelyn. I know you won't hurt me."
Thelyn closed his eyes and tried to maintain his resolve. "It pleases me to have your trust, Jamie. I cannot go back on my decision now, this is too important. When I wed you I want you to feel joy and pleasure, not pain. Do not make it harder for me to wait by offering your broken body. I am not an animal, Jamie. You are mine now, and I would protect you. When you are well, we will join."
Jamie had no idea that there were men with such honor and respect before she met Thelyn. She smiled, "I love you, Thelyn."
Thelyn bent down and kissed her. "I love you too, Jamie," he said softly and then wrapped an arm around her waist to pull her close. He lay on his side and she snuggled against him resting her head on his arm, spooning. Thelyn loved the feel of her body against his. She tucked right in under his chin and her curves seemed to be made to fit against him perfectly. His hand had rested on her waist, but after a few minutes it found its way up to cup her breast.
Jamie sighed contentedly, and Thelyn ventured a question.
"I have not heard you sing for a long time. Have you a song for your husband?" Thelyn asked.
Jamie snuggled close and closed her eyes. She thought of a perfect song and softly sang for the Elf she loved.
"The first time ever I saw your face, I thought the sun rose in your eyes and the moon and the stars were the gifts you gave to the night and the empty skies my love..." Sometimes you gotta go with the classics
Thelyn kissed the top of her head and held her close. They were married, at least in the eyes of those at the feast. Soon she would be mended and he would wed her in body as well as heart. But waiting could not spoil the joy of this night, and the simple pleasure of being able to just hold her. Her song was her gift to him, and he would not soon forget it.
"I wish I could weave my heart into words as you do, Jamie," he whispered. "But there is not enough time in all the ages to tell the feelings in my heart."
"You have already told me with your patience," Jamie said.
"Goodnight, my love," Thelyn whispered.
"Goodnight, Thelyn," Jamie answered.