Chapter Thirty-One
SUMMARY: The Very Good Day continues, as Bard enjoys one of the benefits of Kingship.
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The Woodland Realm, 23rd of February; 2942, T.A.
Later, they were working away in Thranduil's office, when they heard a knock on the door.
"Neledho!"
Hilda stuck her head in. "I don't know what that means, but I hope it meant, "Come in."
Thranduil grinned. "It did. What can we do for you?"
The door opened wider, and she entered, accompanied by Rhian, and Hannah, who was carrying Darryn, and Old Ben, who carried a bundle of papers in his hands.
"Good morning, My Lords," Ben bowed his head. "It's actually me and Rhian who need a favor from you, Lord Bard. I've heard you'll be returning to Dale tomorrow, and I need your seal and signature, if you approve. Me and Percy were talking, and Alun helped me prepare this document. I've shown it to Rhian, and she's full willing, if you are."
Thranduil and Bard looked at each other, then at the folks sitting in front of them. "What is it?"
Ben and handed the packet of papers to Bard. Bard opened it, and as he read it over, a big smile appeared on his face.
"What is it?" Thranduil asked.
Bard handed it over to him, and Thranduil read, in Alun's neat, ornate script:
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City of Dale
Petition for Adoption
20th of January; 2942, T.A.
With regards to the Adoption of Rhian of Dale, by Benjamin, son of Jon, of Dale:
I, Benjamin, son of Jon , formerly of Laketown, now of Dale, declare that I am a person of respectability and good character, and am willing and able to provide for Rhian, formerly of Laketown, now of Dale, daughter of the late Phylip of Laketown, and widow of the late Garth of Laketown.
It is my petition and my fervent prayer, that after this date, and with the blessing, seal and signature of King Bard of Dale and the undersigned witnesses, that Rhian be declared hereafter my child, and henceforth be known as Rhian, daughter Benjamin, and her son, Darryn of Dale be declared my grandson, as well as any other future child born from her.
It is my petition to my King, and fervent prayer to the Valar, that, after this date, Rhian will be declared my legal heir, and shall be entitled to all my worldly goods at the time of my passing into the next life. Should she precede me in death, I declare that Darryn, son of Rhian, and any other children born from her, shall be declared my heirs.
It is my vow to my King, as well as the Valar, that Rhian and Darryn, as well as any future children born from her, that I will, to the best of my ability, protect and provide for them, with all the material needs and education they require, to the very best of my ability.
Lastly, and most important, it is my vow to my King, as well as to the Valar, that Rhian and Darryn, as well as any future children born from her, can be confident in my undying affection and emotional support as her father, and that, as long as a breath remains in my body, it will always remain so, in this life, and will continue in the next.
I hereby declare these reasons and intentions to be the absolute truth, and by my signature, and the signature of these witnesses, I vow to carry out these intentions to the very best of my ability, should my King be willing to grant this petition.
Benjamin, son of Jon, City Planner of Dale 20th of January; 2942, T.A.
Witnesses:
We, the undersigned, have each been personally acquainted with Ben, son of Jon (petitioner), for over twenty years and fully attest to his character and integrity. It is our firm belief he is worthy and able to carry out his good intentions toward Rhian of Dale.
Percy, son of Daffyd, Steward of Dale, 20th of January; 2942, T.A.
Alun, son of Alwyn, Treasurer of the City of Dale; 20th of January, 2942, T.A.
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Thranduil put the paper down, as a pleased smile spread across his face.
"So… What do you think?" Hilda's eyes danced.
Bard took the paper from the Elvenking. "Before we continue with this, I'd like a few minutes with Rhian and Hannah alone. If you could step into Galion's office for a few moments, I'd appreciate it. Lord Thranduil, if you would consent to stay, I'd appreciate it."
"Of course, I will."
After Hannah handed the baby to Ben, he and Hilda stepped out.
Both Kings studied Rhian's face, carefully for a minute or two, before Bard spoke.
"This all sounds wonderful, Rhian," Bard told her. "But I need to make certain this is what you want. You're just learning how to make your own decisions, and I don't want you to feel pressured into doing something you're not completely comfortable with. Would you like some time to think about this? I'm happy to give excuse and take the blame, so you won't have to feel bad about it."
"No, My Lord; I don't need it." She smiled, shyly. "I've known Ben and Cristyn my entire life. He wrote me weeks ago, and asked me to think about it. I've talked with Hannah, too. Ben's not anything like my father or Garth, I promise. He really loved his wife, and treated us both with kindness."
"I remember Cris; she was a kind woman, and Ben was good to her. I don't think you've anything to fear there, but I need to know before agree to this: how are you doing with everything else? I see you're making progress, but is this the right time to be thinking of something like this?"
"I am positive about this decision, My Lord."
Bard looked over at Thranduil. "Do you have any concerns?"
Thranduil said, "I agree with Lord Bard. I am your protector, and I must be sure you are well enough to decide something like this. I wish for you to be well and happy, but I cannot allow this if you are at all pressured to please anyone."
"I understand, My Lord. Ben showed me the paper yesterday, and it was my idea to come see you now. I know Lord Bard is leaving soon, and I wanted to make sure you signed it before you left." Rhian's face was full of honesty and earnestness. "I want to belong to a good and kind father. I've never had that, and ever since I was a little girl, I've wished that Ben and Cristyn were my parents. He understands what I went through, and promises to help me any way he can."
Bard looked to Hannah. "She's your patient; are you satisfied she can handle this, without any setbacks?"
"I am," the Midwife nodded. "I've known Ben and Cris for years, and I also knew Rhian's Mam, before she passed; she'd want this for her Rhian. This is a good thing, My Lord."
Hannah addressed Thranduil. "I appreciate concern for our girl, My Lord. Ben and I have spoken at length, as to what Rhian needs, and he's adamant that she still be under my care in the spring, when we return. He will do whatever is needed to help her. He's loved this girl, like his own, since she was born."
Bard looked at him. "Lord Thranduil, will you give your consent?"
The Elvenking smiled. "If all this is true, you have my blessing. I would also like to say how proud I am, to see you in my office, with no visible signs of anxiety. That, more than anything, shows me you would do well to be the child of Ben, son of Jon."
"Wonderful!" Hannah clapped her hands together.
"Thank you!" Rhian grinned. "Thank you so much!"
Thranduil studied the girl with a protective eye. He had taken his responsibility toward her seriously, and was glad to see her doing well.
Bard was right; the girl was attractive, but now that he could see the happiness in her eyes, she was a true beauty, and reminded him of his Mírelen. Best of all, his foresight told him Rhian would rise above her cruel beginnings, and shine in all the best ways possible. What Thranduil saw before him was, a very strong young lady. She didn't know it yet – she wouldn't for some time – but the flower of Rhian's potential was truly beginning to bloom, and he was glad.
Bard stood, and went to the door. "Could you come in, please?"
After everyone was seated again, Bard said, "We have interviewed Rhian, and believe her consent is genuine, and of her own free will. While we are still concerned with Rhian's well-being, Lord Thranduil and I are convinced that this adoption will not hinder her progress, and will greatly benefit her and the child."
Hilda was thrilled, and Ben cleared his throat and reached for his kerchief. "Aye, that's grand. Just grand!"
"Hilda?" Thranduil motioned for her to come closer. He whispered something into her ear, and she nodded, handed him the baby, and left.
"What?"
Thranduil just smiled. "You will see."
Soon, Galion was summoned to look over the papers, make sure all was in order. Alun had provided three copies of the consent papers, so it was just a matter of making sure the wording was consistent, and proper.
There was a knock on the study door.
"Neledho!" Thranduil said, still holding Darryn, although Bard was getting ready to take him. He'd been pestering the Elvenking for the last few minutes to hand him over.
In came Daeron. "You wish to see me, My Lord?"
"I'm glad you're here!" The Bowman waved him over to the table. "Ben have you met this Elf yet?"
"No, can't say I have."
"Well, allow me to introduce you to Daeron, my Chief Guard and personal Healer to the Royal Family of Dale."
Ben stood and grabbed his hand, eagerly. "So, you're Daeron! I'm happy to meet you, my boy! Rhian's wrote me all about you!"
Daeron was stunned. "Thank you…" Then his face showed recognition. "You are 'Old Ben!' You saved Rhian the night of the fires! She talks about you fondly, and I am very honored to meet you."
Then he took in the sight of Rhian, sitting around the table with everyone. "It is wonderful to see you here, Rhian," he smiled at her.
Rhian smiled shyly. "Thank you. I feel good, today."
"This is excellent news, Mellon nîn." He turned to Thranduil. "Is there something you need, My Lord?"
"I have invited you to be a witness to a very happy occasion. Ben of Dale, wishes to legally adopt Rhian as his daughter and heir. It seems only fitting, that you should be a part of it. You are her friend, as well as her and the child's savior."
The Guard was very touched. "I… would like that very much, My Lord. Is that what you wish, also?" he asked Rhian.
She beamed up at him. "You saved our lives, Daeron; you should be here."
Soon all were seated on Thranduil's comfortable furniture, and Ben and Daeron were getting better acquainted. As they all chatted and fussed over Darryn, Thranduil noticed, how natural the Elven Guard was with the baby. Daeron seemed genuinely happy to be here, and joined in the conversation easily. When Rhian spoke to him, however he was slightly different; he was friendly, but… careful, restrained….
After a minute or two of observing him, he suspected the reason why, but there was no time to ponder the situation, as Galion reappeared with the documents.
Bard and Thranduil arranged everyone in a semi-circle, with Ben and Rhian in the center as Daeron held his namesake.
Bard smiled and began the ceremony:
"Ben, son of Jon, I have received your petition, stating your wish to legally adopt Rhian as your daughter and heir, and to grant her all the rights and privileges thereof. Are you prepared to love her, provide for her, and to take responsibility for her health and well-being, as your child, until and beyond your death?"
"I am, My Lord." The man said proudly.
"Rhian, of Dale," Bard turned to her, "Is it your express wish for Ben to become your legal father? Are you willing love him as a daughter and to accept all the rights and responsibilities, as his legal daughter, until, and beyond his death?"
"I am, My Lord." Rhian said, in a sure and confident tone.
"In addition," Bard turned to Daeron, and took the baby. "Ben, son of Jon, do you agree to also bring into your family, Darryn, son of Rhian, as your legal grandchild, and as well as all children born to her, and to grant him all the rights and privileges hereof? Are you prepared to love him, help Rhian provide for him, if necessary, and to assist in whatever way is needed, now and beyond your death?"
"I am, My Lord." Ben cleared his throat at this point. Darryn kicked his legs and spit up on Bard, to show his enthusiasm, and, of course, Thranduil handed his handkerchief to him, to clean it up.
"I think this little man wants a Granddad," Bard laughed, and gave the child to Ben. Bard turned to Rhian with a grin. "Rhian of Dale, is it your express wish for your son, Darryn, and all the children born to you, to be grandchildren of this man, Ben of Dale?"
"I am, My Lord." Rhian smiled happily.
As if in agreement, Darryn let out a loud squeal, which made everyone laugh.
"He is pleased with the idea, is he not? Now, please bow your heads." Thranduil said, then placed his hands upon them, to give his blessing: "Rhian of Dale, I see your decision has been freely made, and hereby extend my blessing, and best wishes to you. As of this day, as of this moment, I am no longer your protector, as I now pass that responsibility to Ben, son of Jon, fully confident in his ability to care for and protect you, for the rest of his life and beyond."
"Thank you, My Lord," Rhian said, quietly.
"I'll do right by her, My Lord." Ben said, his voice a bit gravelly.
The Elvenking stepped back, as Bard came forward and placed his hands upon Ben's and Rhian's heads, and stated. "As your King, it is my great honor to declare that as of this day, as of this moment, you are a true and legal family, and you'll remain so, until parted by death, and it's my fervent prayer to Eru and all the Valar, that this loving relationship will continue beyond that, into the next life."
Bard lowered his hands, and grinned. "Congratulations, Ben, it's a girl!"
Ben smiled, and put his arm around Rhian. "Have you got a hug for your old Da?"
Everyone clapped and cheered, as Rhian threw her arms around him. "I've wanted this ever since I was a little girl." She smiled down at Darryn, and ran her fingers through is dark curls. "Look! It's your Granddad!"
After Ben, Rhian, all the witnesses signed the documents, Bard and Thranduil affixed their Signature and Seals, and Galion and Thranduil presented Ben with a small carved box, to keep his copy of the adoption papers in.
"A gift, to commemorate such a happy occasion." Thranduil told him.
"I thank you both." Ben said, as he admired the design on the box. "This will hold a place of honor in my house."
Soon servants brought trays of sweetbreads, butter, fruit and cheese. There was also a large pot of tea, and a decanter of wine.
"I decided a small celebration was in order." Thranduil said. "Shall we make ourselves comfortable?"
Soon, they was a festive atmosphere in the study, as Hilda poured out, and made sure everyone had something to eat. Rhian sat beside Ben and smiled at him, as he kept wiping his eyes. "I just wish my Cris was here to see this, love. She'd be so happy."
The girl put her hand on his arm. "I think she is, even now."
He didn't say anything, but he patted her hand.
Thranduil stood and proposed a toast to the new family, which was the first of many best wishes made. Daeron and Ben seemed to enjoy each other's company, and Rhian was as relaxed and happy as Bard had ever seen her.
After a short while, though, Darryn began to fuss and cry. "I'm sorry, everyone, but he needs changing, and wants his lunch. Thank you everyone!" Hannah followed her, saying she had another patient to check up on. Ben and Daeron said their farewells, as Ben headed for his rooms, and Daeron returned to his duties.
Hilda got up, and helped Galion clear the dishes, so the servants could take the trays back to the kitchens. Then she made to leave. "I've got to go relieve Meriel, so she can be there when Dior wakes up."
"Please, tell her we will join them, shortly," Thranduil said
"I'll do that." She came over and hugged them both. "I'm proud of you both." She said. "You did good."
After she left, Bard took his hand. "It's a good day to be King." He grinned. "Come on. Let's go wake up your friend."
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Once they arrived at the infirmary, Elénaril came up to greet them with a smile. "I am glad you two are here; there is something you will want to see." She led them down the long hall, to the same room Rhian had stayed in.
Hannah was just coming out.
"We're seeing a lot of each other, today." Bard said.
"Aye, that's true enough."
"Is something wrong, Mistress?" Thranduil asked, concerned.
The woman beamed. "Not a thing. Lord Bard, your newest subject is here! Seren had a baby girl, last evening, and she's healthy as a horse. Ten fingers, ten toes and ready to face the world. She's nice size too; just over eight pounds, from what I can gather."
"That's wonderful! How's she feeling?"
"Wonderful, all things considered." Hannah explained to Thranduil. "This is her third, you know. Her boys are staying with friends, and they'll come and see Mam and new baby sister, tomorrow."
"Can we see her?" Bard asked.
"She's awake now. Go on in."
They grinned at each other, as Bard knocked on the door, and laughed at Thranduil's eagerness. "You just love babies, don't you?"
"I do. All Elves do."
"Come in." They heard a tired voice call out.
Bard stuck his head through. "I hear Dale's population increased by one, Seren. Congratulations."
"My Lord!" Seren sat up straighter and smoothed her straight, brown hair. "I'm honored you both came to see us."
"The honor's mine." Bard tiptoed over to the cot. "There she is! Oh, look; her hair's red, just like her Da! Llewelyn will be pleased as punch."
"Aye, that he will." She chuckled. "He's been wanting a wee girl to spoil."
"When's he coming to visit?"
"He'll be coming with Lord Percy, next week. We both wanted to wait, so he could see the new baby."
"Llewelyn and I were lads together," Bard told his husband. "Seren's right; he's been bellyaching for a girl, and he'll be thrilled she has red hair, like him. His Mam made the best apple pies I ever tasted, but don't tell Hilda that."
"Do your other children look like you?" Thranduil asked the woman.
Seren laughed. "Aye, the spitting image of me, with my brown hair and coloring. Our boys are a rambunctious pair, but we wouldn't be without them."
"I'd like to give Llewelyn the good news, if I may." Bard said. "I'm going back to Dale tomorrow."
"That'd be most kind of you, My Lord."
The little girl opened her blue eyes, and started to fuss.
"Can I hold her?" Bard asked.
"Of course, My Lord."
Bard picked the little girl up, and soothed her, and soon, the baby was gripping Bard's finger and sucking on it. Thranduil stepped over and smiled at the tiny little face. "She is beautiful, Mistress Seren. She is also a citizen of the Woodland Realm; did you know this?"
"Really?" The woman looked surprised.
"Of course; she was born within my borders, so is entitled to a dual-citizenship. It is a tradition, among my people, that all newborn babies be presented to the King, to declare his or her name. May I have the honor of doing so, with your child?"
"Please do, My Lord, and thank you. I've named her Liliwen, because she looks so much like my husband."
"He'll love that." Bard carefully handed the now-sleeping child over to Thranduil.
After he settled her into the crook of his arm, the Elvenking raised his hand and held it over her, saying:
"I, Thranduil, son of Oropher, King of the Woodland Realm, declare your name to be Liliwen, daughter of Llywelyn and Seren, of Dale. I hereby bestow upon you, citizenship of the Woodland Realm, as well as Dale, and formally name you Elf-friend. You, as with your mother, your father and your two brothers, shall be entitled to and accorded all the protections and benefits, my Kingdom has to offer. You all will be granted assistance and safe passage in my Realm, for as long as you all shall live."
Seren was visibly moved. "Thank you, Lord Thranduil; you're very kind. I don't know what to say…"
Thranduil smiled down at the woman, and handed her the infant. "I wish you joy, My Lady. Your little girl is very well-behaved. Baby Darryn usually responds to me by burping or passing gas. He spit up on King Bard, earlier."
"Aye, a typical boy, he is, then." Seren giggled. "I don't know how prim or proper this one's going to be, though. I was a terrible tomboy as a child, and with two older brothers, I expect she'll be digging in the dirt and mud soon enough."
"My daughter, Tauriel, was the same, and she worked hard to become a Captain in my Guard. I am glad to hear you will encourage Liliwen to be herself, however she turns out."
Bard observed the scene with a full heart; he loved seeing his husband like this. Not a lot of people got to see the great and powerful Elf King be so tender, and Bard always felt it a privilege.
"I'm afraid we have some people to see, Seren. Congratulations, again ." Bard smiled, and nodded his head.
Thranduil put his hand over his heart and saluted her, and they went back out into the hall, toward Dior's room. Meriel had just entered the infirmary, and looked at them with anxious faces.
"Is he awake, yet?"
"Not that I know of," Bard told her.
Thranduil put his hand on the small of her back. "Come, hênig; I am sure everything will be fine."
They entered to find Dior still asleep, but his color was much better. Elénaril came behind them, and went to stand at his head.
"Are we ready?"
Meriel nodded, and stood on his other side, and took his hand, and tried to put a brave smile on her face.
The Healer recited some Quenyan, and shook him softly. "Dior? Dior? It is time to join us again. Your King is here, as well as Meriel; we all want you to come back to us."
Dior's breath deepened, and they waited patiently for him to come back to consciousness in his own time. Thranduil had told Bard, back in Dale, how dangerous it was to hurry this process.
Eventually, Meriel said, softly, "He squeezed my hand."
"That is a good sign." Elenaril leaned over him again. "Dior? All is well. Your King awaits you; Meriel is here, and she would much desire to speak with you."
The Elf's black eyelashes fluttered, and slowly he blinked himself awake. Meriel stroked his brow, and whispered. "Ci vaer, Dior?"
"Meriel…" Dior breathed.
"Mae g'ovannen, Mellon nîn." She whispered.
But Dior shook his head, and brought her hand to his lips. "N'uir thiad gîn 'ell, Meleth nîn."
Bard didn't need Thranduil to translate, as they watched Meriel kiss him, with tears of relief. These were words anyone in love could understand.
The Elvenking stepped forward. "How do you feel, Mellon nîn?"
Dior turned his head toward his King, and blinked in confusion. Then the Captain began to recollect recent events, and tried to sit up. "My Lord –"
"Do not trouble yourself. All is well, and we will discuss events only after Elénaril deems you fit. Until then you are to rest, and regain your strength. That is an order, Captain."
"But wh –"
"Dior, everyone in the Palace is safe, including you, thank the Valar. Lord Bard helped to save your life, which is an interesting story, when you are ready to hear it."
The Guard looked at him in wonder. "I am in your debt, King Bard."
"As am I," Meriel smiled down at Dior.
"There is no debt. Suffice to say, all is under control and taken care of." The Bowman grinned down at him. "If I were you, I'd enjoy the attention from this lovely lady. You're a lucky man."
During all this, Elénaril was checking his vital signs. "All seems well, considering. You will be here for another four days or so, and on complete bedrest, so do not try anything heroic."
"Do you expect him to make a complete recovery?" Bard asked.
"I do, if he behaves himself." The Healer smiled, as they watched Meriel stroke his hair and hold his hand.
"I am not worried." Thranduil agreed, and winked at her.
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After they said their goodbyes, it was time to go back to their chambers to spend the evening with the children. Tilda was excited to have dinner with them, and later, she sat in her Da's lap, and enjoyed the family banter by the fire and was happy to be with everybody.
Not surprisingly, she soon fell asleep in Bard's arms, so when it was time for bed, they couldn't resist putting her in between them, so Bard could hold onto his Little Bean for a while longer.
Thranduil kissed the little girl's hair, put his arm around Bard, and he leaned into him.
"It was a good day, Meleth nîn." He kissed Bard's hair.
"A very good day." Bard whispered.
And it was.
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ELVEN TRANSLATIONS:
Neledho – Enter (command)
Ci vaer, Dior? – Do you feel well, Dior?
Mae g'ovannen, mellon nîn – Hello, my friend.
N'uir thiad gîn 'ell, Meleth nîn – Ever is your presence a joy, My Love