A/N: Okay, Samantha-Girl Scout Niphredil hasa sequel. It's called A New Life. Anyway, I'm glad you're enjoying this as much as I enjoyed writing it. 3 more chapters left!

Chapter 8: Reunited

(A/N: I could've sworn I've used this chapter title somewhere before…)

Estellia stood at the gates with many other women and children waiting for their husbands, sons, and other loved ones return. Many of the children pointed to the skies, and Estellia watched as three eagles flew over the city toward the Healing Houses. She turned her attention back to the gates as a cry went up.

"They've returned!"

Estellia watched as the men were greeted with their loved ones. She smiled softly as children hung on their father's legs. Her smile widened as arms suddenly encircled her waist.

"Did you miss me, mir?" a teasing voice asked. /jewel/

She turned in his arms and kissed him. "More than you'll ever know," she whispered.

They both laughed as he suddenly lifted her up and spun her around.

Valia slowly opened her eyes. Sunlight was shining through an open window on the west side of the room, and she found herself in a comfortable bed. She sat up, feeling refreshed and surprised. She laughed then leapt out of bed, running to the window. Down below, a city was full of celebrating citizens.

"We made it!"

She threw open the doors to the armoire and dressed quickly, eager to see Frodo and her friends. She opened the door and laughed at Frodo's startled look.

He grinned. "I was just coming to wake you. You slept nearly two days longer than I did!"

"How did we even get here?"

"I'll tell you later. Come on." He took her hand, and they walked away together.

"Ouch, what'd you do that for, Merry?" Pippin rubbed his head then took a swipe at Merry who ducked.

"Knock it off," Sam muttered.

Gimli was encouraging them, saying things like, "You're not going to let him say that, now are you, laddie?" "Why take an insult like that from someone as short as him?"

Aragorn, Gandalf, Legolas, and Estellia were watching with amusement as the two hobbits scuffled and insulted. Frodo and Valia entered the room, and Merry and Pippin immediately leapt up.

"Frodo! Valia! They've made it!" Pippin tripped over Merry who fell to the ground, and they began another bout of insults and scuffling.

Everyone laughed then greeted Frodo and Valia warmly.

"I'm glad to see you're all right, Valia," Estellia said as the two sat together away from the others. "Galadriel had often spoke of how worried she was for you before I was captured."

Valia laughed. "Yes, Galadriel would be. She wanted me to stay behind, but Frodo and I convinced her to think otherwise. How is it that you have captured the only person I believed would remain alone." She nodded toward Legolas. "I never thought I would see him fall in love."

Estellia smiled. "I believe it was all his doing. I did nothing to attract him to me. And what of you and Frodo? Are you going to be returning to Hobbiton?"

"After Aragorn's coronation and wedding, yes."

"To think he still believes she has left with what is left with her kin."