Chapter Fifty-Two
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SUMMARY: The Royal Family introduces the Lord and Lady to the people of Dale, and the Lady has some insights for the young woman who has stolen her favorite Guardian's heart.
Daeron makes some important decisions, then has some important meetings.
Ermon and Elénaril are NOT at all equipped to expand their family, but ready or not…
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"I will find you.
In the farthest corner, I will find you."
― Mary E. Pearson, The Kiss of Deception
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The Woodland Realm, 31st of August 2943 T.A.
Bard got out of bed with a yawn, and after kissing his still-sleeping husband, went to splash some water on his face. He quickly checked in Tilda's room—
She wasn't there, but her bed looked like it had been slept in, and her quilt was missing. The Bowman smiled to himself, then went out to the sitting room, to see her curled up near the hearth, next to Thangon. Meryl, the newly-named pug-nosed dog, was awake and chewing on the giant dog's ear, as her corkscrew-tail wagged happily. He reached down and picked her up, "Good morning, you," he whispered, and was instantly rewarded with a face full of puppy kisses.
It had taken two days for Tilda to decide on a good name, and after several consultations with her Ada, decided she should be called Meryl, which means "Rose" in Sindarin.
"I really like that name, but there's a girl in my class called Rose, and I don't want to get them mixed up. What should I do?"
"I see your dilemma," Thranduil said, seriously, then offered up his suggestion.
"Ooh! I like it!" She kissed his cheek. "Thanks, Ada!"
The next challenge was how to train the pup to relieve herself outdoors, and unfortunately Elven magic could only go so far.
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"She is still just a baby, Tithen Pen; so we must teach her. I can help, but you must take her out often, and praise her. And make sure the water bowl is put up in the evenings, to prevent accidents at night."
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So, armed with small bits of chicken, Tilda took little Meryl to the King's garden at least once an hour and made a fuss when the pup did what was required of her. Unfortunately, it wasn't all smooth sailing, so they learned to check the floors often for accidents.
But that was easy to forget, first thing in the morning.
"Ugh," Bard made a face, as his bare feet stepped in a little "gift" Meryl had deposited near the couch during the night. "Why am I the only one who keeps finding these?" He hopped on one foot to the bathing room to wash it off, then cleaned up the mess, as Thangon began to stir. He stepped carefully around the sleeping little girl, walked over to him, and stretch with a yawn, with his rear-end in the air.
"Morning to you, too," Bard whispered. "Let's take you both outside."
He left their chambers, and after greeting the guards went out into the garden and set the puppy down to frolic in the grass. After Thangon went a discreet distance away to take care of business, he returned to carefully watch over the tiny dog who was a fascinating miniature version of himself. Meryl yipped and nipped at his paws, then pawed at his front leg and tried to climb him. Thangon laid down so the pup to crawl on top and play with his ears.
The Bowman sat down on the bench and laughed. "You're a pretty good nursemaid, mate."
It was true. From that first night, when Meryl touched noses with the giant dog, Thangon decided the squirmy, squeaky bundle of joy was his personal responsibility. The puppy wasn't intimidated at all by him, and didn't seem to mind the rough tongue that would clean her off (whether she needed it or not), and never let out a peep, or when Thangon gently picked her up and put her to bed, when her new guardian decided she needed to rest in her basket.
Meryl decided it was a wonderful new game, and would jump right back out, only to be picked up and put back in, again. And again. This would go on for about a dozen rounds, until Thangon gave up and flopped down on his pillow, with a longsuffering sigh. Meryl would crawl up and curl into a ball in the crook of his neck, which was where she wanted to be anyway, and they both had a nap.
Bard and Thranduil were relieved at this development, because as soon as they returned to Dale, school would start, and Tilda would be gone all day, and the Kings would be busy working. So, in addition to his guard and hunting duties, Thangon was now a governess.
But the Little Bean was not convinced.
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"You can't take her to school with you." Bard told her firmly, because of course, she was going to ask. "We'll help Thangon look after her."
"But Thangon follows you everywhere! What will she do then?"
Well, Ada, or Auntie Hil or somebody will be around to keep an eye out; don't worry, love." he kissed her hair. "We'll get her a little collar and leash and make sure she's all right. You just work at your studies and have fun at recess."
"But—"
"No buts. Your schoolwork comes first, unless of course, your spelling has magically improved over the summer?"
She sighed dramatically and rolled her eyes. "Fine. But can I take her to school even once to show Miss Eryn and the other kids?"
"If your teacher says it's all right. Ask her to send a note home with you, and we'll arrange it."
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Once Bard was satisfied the dogs had finished with their morning ablutions, he ushered them through the door, where Meryl took off a full speed on the smooth polished floor. "Come on, Meryl!" he called, but when the pup tried to stop, she skated along on her rump for a few feet. This was a wonderful new game, and she was pretty pleased with herself, when she looked back to Bard, who leaned down and clapped his hands. "Come in, girl! Come on!"
With a yip and a wag, she scrabbled on the shiny floor and this time, managed to get a nice long slide. "You're just too clever by half, kid." He reached down and tried to catch her, but she turned the opposite direction, and tried it again, much to the delight of Bard and all the guards on the Royal Wing.
Eventually, Ivran helped him catch her. "Enjoy this while you can." Bard told pup. "The floors at the Castle are rougher."
He went into their bedroom and deposited Meryl on the bed, where she lurched herself toward the sleeping Elvenking and began to pull his hair.
"Naeg, hûneth!" Thranduil opened his eyes and sleepily grabbed the tiny offender, as he rolled onto his back and set her on his stomach. "Do not eat my hair, please."
"Good morning, love," Bard leaned down and kissed his husband. "She's just been out, just so you know. And remind me to have her show you her new trick." He grinned. "You'll have to see it, before we leave."
"Is anyone else up?"
"Not yet. Tilda slept in the sitting room again. We'll have to work something out when we get home."
The Elvenking left Meryl to play in the blankets while he went to use the privy, then returned a few minutes later. "We need to get everyone ready, Bard; the caravan leaves in three hours."
"Sure thing. Are any of the Wardens coming back with us?"
"No. Celeborn spoke with Rúmil last night, but they are eager to begin their journey home." The Elf shrugged. "I do not blame them; and there are ten other Wardens who want to see Dale. Oh, Bard; I am sorry I did not mention it before, but did you meet the dark-haired blacksmith from Lothlórien? He had spoken to the Lady about accompanying them to Dale, to possibly purchase Bron's business."
"You mean the one from the Grey Havens? Celeborn made a point to introduce me. Seems nice enough, and I've got no problem with it. How did he end up in Lothlórien?"
"I am not sure. But my cousin thinks highly of him, so I am not worried."
"Any friend of Celeborn's is a friend of mine. I know Adila's been looking to sell her house and the forge, anyway. She and the children will be moving over their new coffee café, in the Market."
The Kings got dressed, then Thranduil took the pup and roused Tilda, while Bard got the other kids up.
After breakfast, Bard and Meryl showed everyone her new game on the slippery floors, which made everyone howl with delight. Then it was time to head for the Main Gates, and where the girls and the puppy rode in the wagon with Uncle Percy, while Hilda rode in Galadriel's carriage with her maids, and Meriel who would be coming to Dale to take over Elénaril's duties. Her husband Dior was astride his dapple-grey stallion and would be riding alongside the Princesses.
Bain was bonding with his new stallion, Sílnaith, nicely, so he would be riding with the Kings and the Lord of the Golden Wood and their entourage. Thangon trotted next to Fînlossen for part of the way, then hopped in next to the girls after an hour or so, to keep an eye on his little foster-pup.
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When the party finally arrived in Dale, Bard wasn't surprised to see his people line the streets to greet their new guests, and he could see the Lord and Lady were impressed and the genuine affection they had for their King and their obvious pride for their new home.
The returning Guardians were met with loud cheers and waves, and the children ran up to give them all flowers.
Bard looked over at his son, sitting proud and tall in his saddle, and his throat tightened to see the shadows of the man he was about to become. His eyes stung, and heart swelled with pride to see Bain wave at the crowds and lean down to accept a small bouquet from little Alis, Feren's daughter, and thank her with a warm smile. He looked at his husband on Naurmôr and was surprised that Tilda hadn't talked her way into his lap. Then he looked at Celeborn—
Bard chuckled. Of course, she'd want to show off her new friends. He could see her waving and pointing out various people and places and explaining all about her home to the Lord of the Golden Wood, who seemed to be listening carefully.
Just behind him, Galadriel was smiling regally at the crowd, and offering the occasional wave to the flabbergasted Dale-folk. He could see many of them whisper to each other in wonderment; still they wanted to welcome the famous Lady, the most powerful Elf on Middle Earth. Galadriel put her arm around Sigrid and whispered something which made the girl smile.
The party rode through the streets to stop at the Courtyard, where Bard and his party dismounted, when up on the dais and officially welcomed the returning Guardians of the Woodland Realm. He also gave a speech introducing his people to the Lord and Lady of Lothlórien, and there was a short program that the people had prepared and announce plans for the Welcome Feast.
The party was dismissed, and Hilda and Percy took Celeborn and Galadriel to the guest home, and helped them get settled.
"Turamarth?" Bard called over to the Guardian. "I don't see Daeron, do you? Where is he?"
"No." the Elf was with his parents and his Aunt and Uncle. "If you will allow, I will get my parents settled, then find out."
"Fine. Just report back to me, as soon as possible. It isn't like him not to be here."
Rhian and Hannah came over, pushing Darryn in his pram. "Welcome home, My Lord." They curtsied. "How was your trip?"
"It was wonderful. Do you see Daeron?"
Rhian smiled shyly and blushed. "Aye. We've seen him."
"I take it you're glad he's home? I'll bet he was thrilled to see you and Darryn, wasn't he?"
"Well…" she winced. "It didn't quite work out the way we expected, but it's wonderful to have him home again. But he'll be busy at the Healing House, taking over for Ermon."
"Is something wrong?" Bard looked at Hannah.
"Daeron put Elénaril on bedrest, and he thinks the babies will arrive earlier than planned. I've been doing what I can, and I think Meriel's shifts will start tomorrow."
"But why? What's the matter?"
"Nothing's really wrong, but it seems they're not having twins, after all. Daeron found another babinod hiding in there with her brother and sister.
"Wh…" he was stunned. "You mean…"
Hannah nodded her head with a grin. "Triplets!"
"Ulmo's balls…" Bard blew out a breath, then began to laugh. "Wait till I tell Thranduil!"
"Oh, I think Sigrid's already done that." Hannah pointed. "Look."
Bard turned to see Sigrid waving her hands around and grinning, as Thranduil's jaw dropped and his eyes danced. "Oh, lordy… More babies for him to play with."
Hannah laughed. "I think everyone in Dale will want to play with these babies! I'll be working to help cover for them, but I'm going to get together with Seren to help those two get their house ready." She laughed. "They won't know what hit them!"
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The next evening there was a feast in the Great Hall to introduce the Lord and Lady to Dale. A formal receiving line was formed, so each family could be introduced and pay courtesies. Galadriel especially enjoyed greeting all the children, who had been warned by nervous parents to be on their very best behavior. As it turned out, this wasn't much of a problem, because most of them were tongue-tied, as they looked up at very tall Elleth and her husband.
Tilda was standing beside Lord Celeborn, and when Llewelyn and Seren's family stepped up to be introduced, she tugged at his tunic.
"What is it Little One?" Celeborn whispered.
"That boy is Liam. He's the one that says I can't do things because I'm just a dumb girl."
"Oh, yes," he recalled. He patted her hand, then whispered into Galadriel's ear, then winked down at Tilda.
"And this is Llewelyn, one of Lord Ben's builders, and his lovely wife Seren. They have two sons, Ethan, and Liam, and a little daughter, Liliwen."
"I am honored to meet you, My Lord, My Lady," the couple bowed and curtsied, and the boys stepped forward to do the same.
Galadriel smiled, and leaned down and smiled at Ethan. "You are a strong boy, yes? And a good swimmer, though I recommend you wait a little while before you go swimming again, yes?"
"Y-yes, My Lady," Ethan stammered and bowed again.
"And Liam, I am very interested to meet you."
"Yes, My Lady," the boy looked up at her with wide eyes.
The Lady held the boy's gaze for a moment or two, and though it seems like a conversation had taken place, nothing was said out loud. The boy said nothing, but bowed again, and rushed back to stand next to his Da. Eighteen-month-old Liliwen gave them a huge smile and opened and closed her fist several times. "Can you say hello, to the Lord and Lady, sweetie?"
"Hi," the baby said shyly, and laid her head on her father's shoulder.
Celeborn stepped forward and kissed the baby's hand. "I am honored to meet such a lovely maiden."
Then Ben stepped forward to proudly present his daughter and grandson, but before he could introduce them, the Lady of Light eagerly stepped forward and held her hands.
"My dear! At last, the woman who has captured Daeron's heart!"
"I am deeply honored to meet you both." Rhian lowered her gaze and curtsied deeply. "Daeron has written much about your land, and I am anxious to visit it, someday."
Celeborn kissed her hand. "You are everything Daeron described, and more. I wish you both every happiness. And this must be the precious Darryn." He held out his arms. "May I?" The baby easily went to the Lord of the Golden Wood and eyed his silver hair with glee.
"Oh, no you don't, Little Man!" Rhian laughed, and grabbed his hand just in time. "He's very friendly, My Lord."
"Indeed, he is. He is wonderful, Lady Rhian. I am happy for you both."
She smiled proudly at her little boy, but turned toward Galadriel, who reached for her hand again, then cupped her cheek. After looking deeply into Rhian's eyes. "Yes," she said softly, and smiled. "It was just as I thought…"
"My Lady?" Rhian was confused.
Galadriel put her other hand on Rhian's face. "Daeron has been waiting for you for a very long time," she smiled enigmatically.
The girl blushed, "Yes, I know. And I will do my best to make him happy."
"And you will," she lifted Rhian's chin, "because you have been looking for him, as well."
And of that, the Lady of Light would say no more.
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City of Dale, 2nd of September 2943 T.A.
Daeron had just finished his shift at the Healing Hall, and after going to Ermon's home to check on Elénaril, he headed over to the Castle for two important meetings.
He blew out his breath and got himself ready for the first one.
"Come in," the voice called, when he knocked.
"Good afternoon, Lord Ben," the Elf said, and tried to keep the nervousness out of his voice.
"Hello, lad; welcome home! I hear you've hit the ground running, since you've been back haven't you?"
"I do not mind. It is good to be back at work, though I am sorry I missed the Welcome Feast." Daeron sat down and crossed his legs, "I will be working in Ermon's stead and will not be returning to my position as Lord Bard's Chief Guard, just yet. In fact, I am about to request to Lord Thranduil to have me relieved of my Guard duties for the foreseeable future."
"Why, son?"
"Because My Lor—"
"Call me, Ben, lad. We're friends, here."
"Thank you. Before this, I served my King as both a Soldier, and a Healer, which occupied almost all of my waking hours. This did not bother me much, because I love both jobs, and frankly, I am good at them." he shrugged. "I am skilled with the sword and bow, and I have been given a Healing gift from the Valar."
"I'll not argue with that. You're a talented young man, but why the change?"
"Ben, I love your daughter very much, and now that she returns my feelings, I would like your permission to court her, with the intention of making her my wife. If you are willing to grant this, and we do marry, I want time to be with Rhian and Darryn, and focus on our family."
The City Planner sat back in his chair and studied the Elf carefully. "I can't believe I had no idea you were in love with her, Daeron. Why didn't you tell me?"
"I spoke with Lord Thranduil, over a year ago, while we are all living at the Palace. At that time, Darryn was infant, and Rhian was still recovering from her injuries, the birth, and…" he swallowed, "and the severe abuse by her former husband. It would have been selfish of me, and harmful to put any kind of pressure on her."
"It this why you went away for a year?"
Daeron nodded. "I was having difficulty keeping things to myself, and I did not want Rhian to know."
"Why not, lad? She's always cared about you!"
"As a good friend, but she was not in love with me, nor was she ready to be in love with anyone; I am sure you agree with that. Rhian deserved the chance to learn to be strong on her own, before she entered into a relationship." He sighed. "I also wanted her to love me for me, not for what I've done for her. I hope you understand."
"I do." Ben rested his fingers on his chin and regarded the Elf in front of him. "I imagine you weren't pleased when you learned she was stepping out with Evan."
He swallowed and looked down at his fingers. "That was… difficult. But she should be free to make her own choices. Rhian should never be made to feel like she is disappointing anyone for what she does or does not feel."
"You're right. If you want the truth, I liked Evan. I still do, and had their feelings been different, I think he would have made a good husband to her. But they're just friends; you have my word on that. In fact, now he's stepping out with Eryn, Princess Tilda's teacher. Has been for a month or so."
"Really?" Daeron hated to admit the great relief he felt. "And Rhian does not mind?"
Ben laughed. "No! In fact, I think she played matchmaker." he smiled at the Elf. "You've nothing to worry about. My girl loves you, and I couldn't be happier about it."
"So, I may court her?"
"Of course, but I'd like it if you didn't speak of marriage, until after Yule. Give yourselves time to get used to all of this, yeah? Then, if you both still feel the same way, we can talk about a wedding, maybe in late spring or early summer." Ben's gaze intensified. "Should you marry my daughter, where do you plan on living?"
"Dale, of course. The Woodland Realm is my homeland, but it is no longer my home," he assured the Man. "Even if it were not so, I would never take Rhian or Darryn away from you. She needs to be near her Da."
The City Planner nodded. "Thank you," he said quietly.
"There is no need to thank me. I would also like to offer my congratulations on finding love again with Hannah. I am happy for you, Mellon."
"Aye, I'm lucky to have her. She's a grand lass."
"Tell me," Daeron teased, "have you asked her son for permission to court her?"
Ben laughed. "You sneaky sod! As a matter of fact, I've spoken to him about more than that. I was only waiting for her ring to be finished. Picked it up this morning." He man opened his top drawer and pulled out a small drawstring bag. "I heard her mention once that she loves rubies, so…" he opened the pouch and pulled out a gold ring adorned with several small rubies and diamonds
"It is lovely." Daeron winked. "Do you think she will say 'yes?'"
"Sure hope so. I had thought about asking her a while back, then the City was attacked, and they wrecked my house and took the women and children…" the man's voice wavered. "I don't have to tell you how long that night was, do I?"
He didn't. Daeron had seen the whole thing in the Mirror of Galadriel, but he did not feel he could mention it, without the Lady's permission.
"No." the Elf sighed. "Does Rhian suffer from it?"
"An occasional nightmare. Hannah gets a bit jumpy sometimes, but the girls talk to each other. Anyway, it didn't seem right to bring up marriage, until after things calmed down a bit. I didn't want Hannah thinking I was asking her because of the attack."
"I highly doubt she would think that."
Ben smiled. "Maybe so, but I suppose I wanted us to be well clear of all that, before she started thinking of marrying me."
Daeron smiled and nodded his head. "Best of luck to you, sir. In the meantime, I want you to know that I will respect your wishes and assure you that I have no intention of dishonoring your daughter. In fact, I could not do that, even if I wanted to; Elves are not made that way."
Both Elf and Man stood and clasped forearms. "I suppose I'll see you at the house tonight for supper?" Ben offered.
"I would be delighted, and look forward to the evening off. I have worked at the Healing House almost non-stop. Another Healer from the Palace arrived two days ago, and we are finally caught up, I think."
"See you then, lad."
Daeron closed the door behind him, then made his way to the Elvenking's study, where he found Thranduil going over some papers, with Tilda's puppy sleeping in his lap.
"Mê le 'ovannen, Aran nîn," the Guardian saluted. "Do you have a moment?"
"Of course," After Daeron shut the door, Thranduil motioned for him to sit. "I have not had a chance to speak with you since your return. Is your work at the Healing House still frantic?"
"Yes, but I am getting acclimated. I assume you heard Ermon and Elénaril's news?"
"In a roundabout way," he Elvenking laughed. "Hannah sat with Elénaril, and told Rhian, who told Sigrid, who told me. So, it is not a rumor?"
"It is not. I expect her to go into labor anytime now, My Lord." He became serious. "I would appreciate your prayers; I am experienced with twins, but I will admit I have never delivered triplets."
"I have every confidence in you, Mellon nîn. I also assume you heard Tilda is thrilled with her gift?" Thranduil smiled down and the fawn colored ball of fur, who was yipping softly in her sleep. "Where in the world did you find her?"
Daeron smiled at the puppy. "I befriended a young couple from the Wold some time ago. The wife, Isbeil was in danger, and I managed to deliver her daughter just in time. She and Rob have kept in touch, and when I learned Esta was killed, I asked him to see if Isbeil's mother would sell me a pup from her dog's next litter. How does Thangon get along with her?"
"He is completely besotted. Farien hisses and spits at her, but little Meryl is determined to win her."
"Meryl? That is a nice name."
"Our Tithen Pen likes flowers." The Elvenking shrugged. "I like babies of all types, though I confess I was ready for Farien's kittens to leave; they got to be a bit much toward the end; Bard almost sat on them a couple of times, and one of them knocked over his inkpots."
"Ai, law!" The Guard chuckled.
"What can I do for you, Daeron?"
"I… have some questions, My Lord."
"I am happy to be of help, if I can. What is it?"
"I have begun to formally court Rhian, but if she is willing to marry me, I feel I must resign one of my positions in your service. I am looking forward to having a family, and do not wish to divide my energies as I have been doing. I want to be a good parent to Darryn, to be available for him, or for any other children we might have together."
"I see," Thranduil studied the Elf. "You are correct, of course, and I will gladly work with you on that. But I sense you are worried about something else?"
"I confess I am. It is important that you know that I spoke to Ben about Rhian after I was completely certain." He met the King's eyes steadily. "I love Rhian with all my heart, and want to marry her, no matter what the cost."
"Cost? Did we not speak of Eärendil's blessing?"
"We did, and I have no difficulty accepting a Mortal life, albeit a longer lifespan than a normal Man. Still, there are things I am not sure of, and our marriage could affect my service to you, in significant ways." Daeron's face was determined. "I had wondered about this from the beginning, but had put the thought aside. Now the possibilities are very real."
"Well, I understand that you will not go to Valinor—"
"It is not that, My Lord. I have Elven skills in weaponry and of course the agility and strength of my race, but will I lose it?"
Thranduil's eyes widened. "I do not know… I was given a missive from Lord Elrond, concerning this subject, but it is locked in my safe at the Palace. I will send for it as soon as I can. But what else disturbs you?"
"This is… difficult to consider, but I am determined to face it." He swallowed and looked at his King and friend. "My Lord, I was given a powerful and unique gift, one that I cherish. It is very possible I could lose my ability not only to Heal others, but also to help unborn children, as I have done for many years."
"Ai…" The Elvenking covered his mouth, as his eyes widened in alarm. "I never considered something like this…"
"I know. Neither did I until three days ago." Daeron looked down at his lap sheepishly. "I admit, since that thought occurred to me, the extra hours at the Healing Hall have been welcome, because I needed a few days to think this through, before I continued to pursue a life with Rhian."
"And you feel sure?"
"As much as I can be. I love, her, Aran nîn. I cannot imagine turning away from a life with her, even to keep something as wonderful as this! I cannot give her up!"
"I think you are correct, but why did you not come to me sooner? You could have written me, or even Lord Elrond."
"I considered it, but I think it's important that I come to this decision on my own, so Rhian can feel confident that I give this up freely."
Thranduil shook his head in amazement. "She will never doubt her place in your heart, now. Well done."
"Still, I have prayed at great length, and I feel that Rhian was meant to be for me; just as my gift was, and I have to believe that the Valar would want me to serve our people in the same way."
Just then there were hurried footsteps outside Thranduil's study, and Ruvyn rushed in.
"I apologize for the intrusion, but Daeron you are needed at Elénaril's house immediately!"
In an instant, both Elves were on their feet and hurrying toward the door.
"What happened?" Thranduil asked.
"I am not sure, but Ermon says it is urgent."
"Go find Hannah and tell her she is needed at the Healers' house right away. Then find Lady Sigrid; I believe she is on her way home from school."
"Yes, My Lord," and Ruvyn was off.
The King and the Guardian raced through the streets as their Guards shouted to make way. The people stepped aside in alarm, murmuring and with worried looks.
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Ermon had just finished serving his wife her lunch and was finishing up the dishes, when he heard a knock at the door. "I am coming!" he called out, as he wiped his hands on a tea towel.
The Chief Healer opened his front door, and was taken aback to see a small crowd, bearing bundles and baskets. "This is a surprise!"
Feren's wife, Glélindë stepped forward. "We are here to help you set up the nursery!"
"Come in, please!" Ermon stepped back and allowed her to come in, followed by Seren, Enid, Catrina, Mona, and Darla, Hannah's daughter-in-law. Indis, Anna, and Adila and even Maggie, Constable Tom's Wife, brought up the rear, all carrying wonderful-smelling baskets of food.
"Something smells wonderful," Ermon sniffed. "Elénaril is awake, and she is bored beyond belief. Please, go up and see her."
After depositing the food in the kitchen, the Chief Healer led the group upstairs into their bedroom. "We have visitors bearing gifts, Meleth nîn."
Elénaril struggled to sit up, so Ermon propped her up, as she smoothed her hair down in embarrassment. "I look terrible…"
"You look wonderful." Seren came over and kissed her cheek. "Just a bit pole-axed, but that's to be expected for a first time Mam – especially triplets!"
"We were planning on giving you a big surprise shower next week, but your little ones have a mind of their own, don't they? So, we've brought the party to you!" She smiled. "Now, you know babies don't like to follow schedules, and you've been caught by surprise, so we've been gathering all kinds of things you'll need, and we're here to get you set up for your wee babinods."
She turned to Ermon. "Now, my Llew and some of his boys are on their way, to get your cribs set up. You don't want cradles, love. They're too small, to keep your wee ones together, and they always make them to rest close to the ground where it's cold! No; you'll need full-sized cribs, but since they'll stay together for a while…" She looked around the room and considered. "Now, you'll need one set up in here, at least for the first month or so…"
"Not in the nursery?" Elénaril asked.
"I don't know about Elven babies, lovey, but most newborns will need a lot of attention, and you'll get a lot more sleep if you can just keep 'em close by. How we'll set one in here, with supplies, then one in the nursery—"
"And you definitely want one downstairs, to save you traipsing up and down those steps a hundred times a day. You'll get too worn out; don't you think?"
"It is an excellent idea," Indis nodded, and smiled at Elénaril. "Do you agree to this?"
"Yes," the expectant mother smiled. "I am so used to telling my patients what to do; it seems strange to feel flustered!"
Enid, a woman in her sixties, came over and sat down and took her hands. "You're about to be a mother, sweetie. And triplets would scare the bejeepers out of anyone."
Tears filled Elénaril's eyes, and she nodded. "I am just not ready for that."
The woman passed around knowing smiles, then Anna said. "It doesn't matter of it's one or six. No one is ever really ready for a baby! Even one can be overwhelming to a new Mam. But you are going to need a lot of help, love. So, we've decided to get you through these first few months."
"But how?"
"We're going to make a schedule so someone's with you each day. You'll never get the laundry done without help, so Lord Bard has spoken to Greta at the Castle, and she's going to arrange it. Someone will be picking it up and dropping it off each day, love."
"But Ermon will be here…"
"And he'll be put to work, don't you worry. He can't be expected to know how all this should be done." Seren tilted her head and smiled. "We're going to get you all set up and organized like clockwork. Now," she opened her basket. "These are some little gowns that tie down the front. See how there is room to get the baby's head through? I've also got some nappy covers, to keep their clothes dry." pulled out some items made from thicker felted wool. "We call them, 'soakers,' and you'll thank the Valar every day for them. See how they shape around baby's bottom, and you can tie them at the waist? This is for the wee ones, but you'll need bigger ones as they get older—"
A knock was heard on the door downstairs. "I will get that."
"Good, those are my boys, with your furniture." Seren said.
Indis set down her basket and got up. "I will go down and direct traffic," she said.
"I'll take the food and get it ready," Catrina smiled. "Rod will be bringing some ale for the boys."
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It turned into quite the impromptu party. Not only did Llewelyn and his boys bring the three cribs, they also brought three rocking chairs, and the men laughed and talked as they got the cribs put together. Once the mattresses were installed, the women put the sheets on them, tied lengths of padding around the perimeter made of bright striped fabric, courtesy of Lynne and Mona's Weaver's shop.
"Babies love stripes for some reason," Enid approved. "All six of my babinods smiled at them, and so did my twelve grandchildren."
There was more. Óin had gotten word of his friends' new arrivals, so he sent over lots of ointment for their little bottoms, and Bifur made them some little mobiles to hang over the cribs.
"Hello?" Bard and Ruvyn stuck their heads in the house, and saw all the activity. "This is turning into quite the party! Can I help?"
The King of Dale was pressed into service moving the Sitting Room furniture around to accommodate the crib and the small dresser/changing table. Llew had just finished putting the crib together and showed Ermon how to adjust the height of the mattress. "You want it up, when their small, so you can reach them easier, you see? But when they are old enough to pull themselves up to stand, lower the slats down to here, so they can't get out and get into things."
"Thank you," Ermon said gratefully. "I am still trying to absorb all of this."
"It will take time, Mellon," Bard put his hands on the Healer's shoulder.
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When all was said and done, the house was neatly set up and as ready as it could be. They expectant parents were outfitted with the proper furniture, plenty of nappies, soakers, clothes, booties, blankets, burping cloths, rattles, and just about anything else, these babies could want.
Rod had shown up and passed the ale around for the helpers, and Ermon toasted them and gave a short speech of appreciation. The ladies had enjoyed a cup of tea and some finger foods, around Elénaril's bedside, and admired their handiwork, but they could see the Elleth was looking tired, so they gathered their things and made ready to leave, along with the crowd downstairs.
Seren stayed behind to make sure Elénaril was comfortable.
"Thank you," she said, her voice caught, "I am sorry; I never cry…"
"Nonsense, lovey," Seren squeezed her hand. "We look after each other; it's the Dale way. And you especially deserve it for taking care of us!"
"Where is Daeron? I am surprised he and Rhian did not come."
"Daeron had some meetings, and Hannah is with Rhian. They'll stop by later, to check on you. Now," Seren asked. "Can I get you something?"
"Ai!" the Elleth groaned. "Would you help me up, so I can use the privy? I am constantly needing to go."
"Sure thing. Now, let's get you sitting up…"
Seren pulled the covers down. And stopped.
Elénaril looked down and saw blood.
"ERMON!" she screamed.
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ELVEN TRANSLATIONS:
Naeg, hûneth! – Ouch, puppy!
Mê le 'ovannen, Aran nîn – Well met, My King
Ai, law! – Oh, no!
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NOTES:
For more information on the ladies at Elénaril's surprise shower, see CH 4 for an alpha list of characters in the "Two Throne" series….
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