THE FORGOTTEN
I Mereth Best
The Wedding Feast
Author's Note: Okay dear readers, now that we're this far in, I'll confess - this whole fic has been a self-indulgent fic so I could give myself the thing I have not found in any other fic - a canonical, traditional elven wedding. I also wanted to give myself something I have only partially found in one other fic- a sweet and quasi awkward wedding night between two virgins. So to give you a bit of a heads up- this chapter is all pre-wedding chaos and the wedding (noun). The next chapter is NSFW and the actual wedding... As in, the verb "to wed". Because I'm highly dedicated to canon. And I know two seconds ago I said canonical and traditional elven wedding, but Tolkien didn't actually write out the vows, so some liberties have been taken, but rest assured, I was pouring over stuff he wrote and agonizing over exactly how it should look and sound and be, taking soooo much canonical cultural stuff and attitudes into consideration! He might not approve of some of the liberties I've taken (like Legolas and Lothril sharing a bed), nor me showing the next chapter, but I'd rather like to think he'd be proud of this one... Or at least the wedding feast scene ...
*Warning! Mentions of pumpkin cream pie! Also mentions of Thranduil feast fare… so… I'd get something to eat, personally.
When Legolas suggested they sleep in their respective rooms for their last night unmarried, she had simultaneously agreed but wanted to protest. As she woke up to an empty bed, she wished he was there to hold and kiss, but was really glad he wasn't because the thought was making her squirm with want. Sunset... As soon as the light turns golden they go to the clearing, they dance, they feast, their family gives blessings, they exchange blessings, then...
"Good morning, milady!" Estelneth greeted with a kindly smile.
"Good morning, Estelneth," Lothril returned grinning.
"You seem excited," Estelneth said with a knowing look.
"I feel like I'm going to burst before this evening!" Lothril replied as she got out of bed.
"I felt the same way," Estelneth said. "And so, if you like, I have contrived some things to help you pass the morning more amicably before a late breakfast. But after that, I think you shall be rather preoccupied getting ready for this evening."
"I suppose... But I just cannot reckon how it will take all day," she said.
Estelneth smiled. "You shall see. Everything will take longer than you think and help calm your nerves."
"Well, I'm not nervous. Not at all. Excited, yes, but not nervous."
"You are also not focused," Estelneth said. "You just put tooth powder on your washcloth."
"This is what you meant by nerves. Not nervous, but unfocused from excitement," Lothril said, staring at her washcloth then Estelneth.
Estelneth smiled. "You are doing better than I did. On the morning I was to wed I brushed my teeth with my nail brush and put my dress on inside out before my mother and sister came in to attend me."
"Do you suppose Legolas is the same way?"
…Meanwhile in the prince's chamber...
"My lord, there is an hour and a half until breakfast. Slow down or I shall be forced to tie you to a chair," Alphon respectfully threatened as he watched Legolas try to button his tunic entirely too quickly for the third time and still managing to do it crookedly. Clothes were draped and dangling off every piece of furniture and hook in his highness's closet, and he did not need the extra work! Not with final accommodations being made today to finish moving in Lady Lothril during the wedding feast.
"Alphon," Legolas began with a warning tone to his voice as he finished and realized he was still lopsided. He began undoing buttons.
Alphon held up a hand. "The king gave me permission to do, quote, 'whatever it takes to keep his highness from acting like an impatient elfling.' Unquote. And he also added I may summon him to help deal with you if you become unmanageable."
Legolas balked then laughed. "I suppose I am being an elfling at that. But can you blame me? I have waited five thousand years for this!"
"It is always the last few hours before expected joys that are longest," Alphon said. "And that said, I am grateful your father, Elior, Istelion and Gladhrion are going to be the ones dealing with you after breakfast."
"For that comment, I shall not save you any pumpkin cream pie," Legolas said petulantly.
"A small price to pay," Alphon sassed.
Legolas laughed. "Alright, I give up. Help me with this, Alphon and I will help put my things away."
Alphon took his time getting Legolas ready for the day but he could only slow down the eager bridegroom so much before he quickly (but neatly) put his clothes away and bolted out his room to go see his beloved. Legolas found Lothril in her anteroom playing one of the quickest songs she could play and at nearly double time. When she saw him walk in, she dropped her lute on the couch and practically flew at him only to stop short and practically vibrate as she demanded, "Why the heck did we decide to have an evening wedding?! This waiting is maddening!"
He laughed and mostly because her impatience mirrored his own nearly perfectly. "I feel the exact same way, but after breakfast things begin in earnest and then things will move more quickly. You shall see," he said as he took her hands in his.
"They better!" She replied then took a deep breath. "Good morning, by the way. And I am very glad this is the last time we sleep in separate beds."
"Me too. And good morning," he replied then leaned down to give her a kiss.
He meant it to be a quick little casual kiss, but the moment she had felt his desires, she lost all self control and started deepening this kiss. His patience and discipline was such a thin thread at this point it was marvel it hung on at all. The temptation to slide one hand down to her backside and pull her closer so she could feel what she did to him... they were getting married that evening... In mere hours... Forget discipline! His hands left hers and found their way to her back... Down her sides... To her waist... To the small of her back... Lower-
There was a quick double knock on the door before Estelneth opened it and found the prince and the lady standing close, but only holding hands. She had thought she heard his voice and was glad she knocked and waited a second. It was an old habit from when she served Queen Lauríel, but it worked. She only accidentally caught the king and queen once early on after she had been rung for, but managed to leave before they noticed and closed the door silently. She'd have to remember to knock even when rung for after today.
She gave a quick, polite bow to the prince. "Your highness, milady, I have the last of your clothes and things are ready to be moved into the prince's chambers. When would you like them to be moved?
Lothril looked at Legolas. "Now work?"
"Begin moving them in when we leave for breakfast and then you can start arranging things while she is being made ready," Legolas said.
"Athon, ernil nín."
"Won't that crowd you a bit?" Lothril asked.
"Nay, ada has invited me to get ready in his rooms so our rooms can be made ready unhindered," Legolas replied.
She nodded. Made sense. Who would want a bunch of servants around rearranging things while trying to get ready for their wedding?
"How long until breakfast?" she asked.
"Less than an hour," he answered. "Estelneth!" he called. She appeared promptly and he said, let us know when it is time for breakfast."
"Athon, ernil nín," she replied, hiding a smile. "Like father, son," she said to herself as she shut the door behind herself.
Legolas snapped his attention back to Lothril. "Are you ready for tonight? Are you nervous?"
"Nope! Just a little scatter brained. Are you?"
"Impatient mostly. I love you, meldis nín. I am ready to be one with you," he said, staring her straight in the eyes.
"I love you too. I cannot remember the last time a day felt so long! Will I see you at all after breakfast?"
"Not until this evening. I will be getting ready, same as you."
"Probably for the best," Lothril said. "My will to wait is completely gone."
"Mine too, as it should be!" He wrapped his arms around her and drew her close until she was pressed against him. He went straight for neck and ears so he could tease her while whispering what he was looking forward to most that night.
Raging desires notwithstanding, him telling her he was excited to share his life with her and that his constant favorite thing about the last two years was just that made her feel happy. And loved. And cherished. And it did so in a way that made the thought of all the thrilling touches and kisses seem more… more… well, more. More intimate, more personal, more loved and cherished… Without even thinking she hugged him and rested her head on his shoulder and he returned the hug.
"Gi melon, (I love you)" he whispered.
She smiled wide and gave a contented hum. "A gi melon, (and I love you)" she said quietly in reply. "I am sure you are going to be amazing in bed, but this might always be my favorite thing."
He smiled. "Mine too, but I am eager to find out what other things make the list."
She chuckled. "I am certainly looking forward to that too!"
Estelneth knocked again on the door and Lothril went to move away, but Legolas held her close and looked at her to see her response. She gave a slight shrug and resumed her hug.
"I apologize for the intrusion, your highness, but milady has not made a final decision on which set of gems she wants in her hair and I need them set aside to go to Linnrien's," Estelneth said.
"Oh! I clean forgot!" Lothril said apologetically.
"No fear, let us go pick them out now and then head to breakfast," Legolas said. He let go of her and moved a hand to the small of her back and they went to her closet.
She had three sets of gems for her hair, plus four decorative silver pins, and two she called "novelty pins", which were the lilac one Legolas gave her and a silver pinecone to match Elrohir's. She had already decided on which silver pin to hold her two crowning braids together, but she wanted a little bit of sparkle peeking out from the lothil she was having braided into her hair.
"What do you think, daer nín (my bridegroom), the white gems or the pearls?" she asked.
"Not the green?"
"Well, I'm not sure they would match," Lothril replied.
"If your outfit is the same color as mine, they will look very nice, especially with the lothil," he said.
"Well, the prince has spoken; green, Estelneth!" Lothril declared.
Estelneth's eyes glittered merrily though she kept her face and voice otherwise professional. "Green it is. I shall send them over promptly with the dress."
"May I see the dress?" Legolas asked.
"No, because I am determined to surprise you with it when we gather for the feast!" Lothril answered. "But I want to show you!"
Legolas laughed. "Then I will use the last shred of my will to say I will wait to see it. But now we must head to breakfast before I change my mind," he joked.
Breakfast was a much smaller affair this morning with only immediate family, for which Lothril was grateful. She was antsy enough without the entire family around. Everything about breakfast was very relaxed, the menu was simple but nice, and the tea that was served was one of the calming blends that served to the the edge off Lothril's impatience. Afterwards, Thranduil whisked Legolas away and the twins promised Lothril they would meet up with her at Elior and Linnrien's rooms and left Elrond and Lothril alone.
"Why don't we take a little walk through your garden before you start getting ready?" Elrond suggested.
"That sounds nice," Lothril said.
They headed out of the dining room arm in arm and took the passage that ended in Thranduil's garden. Unless he and Legolas happened to be in that exact corner this very second, they would be able to cut through the corner of it and leave without possibly disturbing them, if they were even there.
"So, are you regretting an evening wedding yet?" Elrond asked teasingly as they reached the door leading outside.
"Ugh, like you wouldn't believe!"
"Oh, I would. I had an evening wedding also. However, I can assure you, it is well worth it. Are you wedding in your chambers or outside?" He asked as they exited Thranduil's garden.
"In our chambers, but there is a window that lets starlight into his bedroom. There is an outdoor place where he wants to observe a new moon tradition with me, but I am not entirely sure where it is," she replied.
"A new moon tradition... i cýron rîn nan gilgalad bestad?"
She nodded. "That's the one." She opened the gate to her garden and they went in. It wasn't quite as enchanting as Thranduil's in autumn, but she had a good variety of autumn blooms and vine covered trellises that were bright autumn colors.
"Are you looking forward to it? Love making outdoors is certainly different from indoors."
"I am. I am a little nervous about it too, but I am decidedly looking forward to it."
"What about tonight? Do you have any lingering fears or trepidations? Is there anything you want to ask me or talk about?"
"After last night, I cannot imagine what I would ask! Cîlwen and Linnrien gave me a rather thorough tutorial I think. Between them and your anatomy lessons, I think I have a more than fair handle on something I haven't done yet."
Elrond smiled. "That explains your pink ears last night. Given some of the conversations we have had, it must have been quite thorough to get you to blush that way still."
She nodded.
"Are you ready to give yourself to him physically?" Elrond asked quietly.
She nodded again. "I am. I am very ready to be wed to him and I am not worried about him making me think of my past."
"Are you nervous at all?"
"Not anxious nervous, but I did put tooth powder on my wash cloth, but I think it was more out of excitement."
Elrond smiled. "That is perfectly normal. I put my robe on inside out the morning of my wedding. Fortunately, I caught it right away, but still."
"Well, that's reassuring," Lothril said with a chuckle. "But why do we get so flustered-"
"Stop right there. There is a time to ponder such mysteries, but today is not it. Today is not for study and questions, today is for celebrating and feeling. Think about whatever is happening right in front of you, feel everything and enjoy it. Embrace your emotions, what your body feels, all of it. Even if that includes sadness and melancholy."
"I know why you think I might be sad and melancholy, but honestly - I am at peace with them not being here. I wear a symbol of their blessing and... " she trailed off as she rubbed the green stone around her neck. "Their love is with me. That is enough. That you and my brothers are here, that Galadriel and Celeborn are here, and that his family has become my own brings me great joy. I think... I think I have figured out how to embrace all of everything. Either that or I'm just so excited I am marrying tonight I just don't care," she said with a smile. "Oh, I do hope the feast is fun and that tonight is..." Somehow "fun" didn't seem quite like the right word, but she wasn't sure what the right one was.
"I believe passionate, pleasurable, sensual, and loving are words you may be looking for," Elrond said with a smile.
"Yes, but there's another one. It's somewhere between fun and relaxed. I want it to be all those other things too but I don't want to feel pressure, especially from myself."
And if there was ever an elf that excelled at internally pressuring herself, it was her. That made up his mind on the gift he was leaving in their bedroom. The other ones would be in the gifts they open later. "If I know Legolas at all, I know he will be doing everything in his power to make sure you do not feel pressured into anything, but that said, talk to him while you are making love. Tell him what you like or not. And do so even after your marriage bond is formed because even though it will convey much, there is no substitute for direct communication. And Lothril - this is new. You are inexperienced."
She gave him a raised brow.
"Not the same. Not remotely. You will see that for yourself in a couple hours."
"Well, I suppose I am not foolish enough to argue with you… out loud," she joked.
Elrond laughed, "And not in your head either! Now, I think it best I get you back inside so you can start getting ready."
-⸙⸙-
They reached the door of Elior and Linnrien's rooms and Elrond turned her and took both of her hands in his. "I will come back here to pick you up for the feast when it is time, maybe a little sooner, if that is agreeable to you?"
"It is!" she replied with a smile.
"Nervous?"
"Giddy."
He smiled kindly. "And that is why we have this tradition. Take a deep breath… hold… let it out. Now relax and enjoy yourself now and remember what you are doing now is preparing for later. The temptation to be impatient is huge, but focus on what is happening in front of you. Can you do that?"
"I can try," she answered.
"I will see you later," he said and gave her a quick kiss then knocked on the door.
"I thought I heard voices," Linnrien said as she opened the door. "Do not worry, Lord Elrond, she is in good hands!" Linnrien added as she took Lothril's hand and dragged her inside with a startled yelp.
"I know," he said and with that Linnrien shut the door behind them. "You, oh Lothril, need to hurry or your bath will get cold before it's half done!"
Lothril barely caught a glimpse of the twins playing music in the sitting room with Cîlwen and Mindonith as Linnrien ushered her past the sitting room and into the bathroom where a hot bath was steaming. The bathroom smelled heavenly and quite floral.
"Do you need help with your dress?"
"A little," Lothril replied. "I cannot undo the back by myself."
Linnrien gave a nod and undid her dress for her and said, "Slip into the bath and I will be back in a little bit."
"Alright. Thank you, Linnrien!"
"You are welcome, cousin!" she replied.
Lothril smiled at that as finished getting out of her dress. They might not be blood relations, but they were family just the same. She went to slip into the tub and balked with one foot in. The water was a very pale blue. "What in the world?!" She muttered to herself then she noticed the array of flower petals in the tub. She got in and scooped one up out of the water. "So you're the culprit! Butterfly pea, and oh, look- blue tansy, rose, lavender, and…" she plucked a small piece of torn leaf out of the water and rubbed it between her fingers then smelled it. "Aethelas. He ought to love this scent on me!"
Linnrien came back in with a tray she sat down on a little table beside the tub and said, "Here is some tea for you. I asked Uncle Thranduil which one was your favorite and he recommended this, so if you do not like it, blame him." She winked then added, "I realize there are a lot of little customs and traditions of ours we simply haven't thought to tell you, and I realized last night this one might be a little awkward for you, so if you like, I will leave you to your own devices. Estelneth dropped off a robe for you during breakfast so you may put that on afterwards until it is time to dress."
"Thank you for the consideration, Linnrien, I do appreciate it. However, I decided while I was back where I'm from that I was going to dive headlong into whatever traditions and customs we have here, and today is no exception," Lothril replied. "Besides, I am half used to this already. Apparently the royal family gets attended when they bathe, according to Estelneth. I haven't washed my own hair but three or four times since I returned."
Linnrien looked surprised. "Oh! I don't know why that surprises me though; Uncle Thranduil did say he was making you a member of the royal family and I've never known him to do anything in half measures. Well, in that case-" She went over to a small, narrow cupboard and pulled out a back rest like Lothril frequently used whenever Estelneth washed her hair. "I will put this on for you. And there's a bath sheet at the end of the tub if you want to keep the steam in."
"Thank you," Lothril said as she tried not to slosh too much as she reached for the bath sheet to pull over the top of the tub as Linnrien quickly set the back rest in place.
"All set!" Linnrien declared.
Lothril leaned back, puking the sheet up with her and was able to cover almost to her neck. This was definitely more comfortable. "Out of curiosity, why do you have one of these back rests?"
"Elior is a hopeless romantic and insists on doting on me frequently," she answered with a smile. "Also helps with bathing elflings, should you be thinking of any."
"Elrond and Thranduil have both told me not to even think about elflings until we've been married a century or so," she answered and left it at that.
"Well, I think that probably is for the best. You have only been here two years," Linnrien said as she began pouring water on Lothril's hair. "For all that, I think you are doing a wonderful job adjusting to ways of things. From what little you have told me, I do not think I would do as well if I were in your place."
They chatted a little as Linnrien washed her hair and then put a scented oil in it, then helped her wash her back but promised she'd leave the rest to Lothril and left a collection of things for her to use.
Even with her posh and fancy royal life, this all still felt a bit extra; especially as she could just hear music wafting in from the sitting room. The tea was one she enjoyed quite a bit, and she found tea and the bath with all those strong scents was relaxing, so she let herself soak a little while before she got out, dried herself off, and wrapped herself in her green robe and called for Linnrien per her instructions.
Linnrien and Cîlwen came in and immediately set to gently combing out her hair and then putting it up in a complicated set of braids they neatly twisted together and wound around her head like a wreath and then pinned it in place.
"There," Cîlwen said as she finished pinning things in place. "As your hair dries, these braids should give it the prettiest ripples and keep it out of the way while you are getting ready."
"Thank you!" Lothril said with a smile.
"You are welcome," Cîlwen said and gave her a hug.
"Would you like anything to eat before your massage or after?" Linnrien asked.
"After, please," Lothril answered.
"In that case, unless you wish otherwise, I can take you out to the spare bedroom where there is a bed set up for a massage," Linnrien said.
"Sounds good," Lothril answered.
-⸙ - ⸙-
Meanwhile in Wayne Manor
"Legolas, I swear, you take longer than my wife!" Elior teased through the bathroom door.
"Pardon me, but who was the one who took a three hour bath in my rooms on his wedding day?" Thranduil returned as he brushed past his nephew to bring in another towel into the bathroom.
"That was different," Elior insisted.
"How?" asked Gladhrion from Thranduil's massive bed as he laid in the middle trying to imagine what one does with such a huge thing. The images that kept coming to mind made him think he should reconsider his cousin's offer…
"I am not a prince and used to this luxury," Elior replied matter of factly.
"You say that like our apartments are not very nice. Perhaps not as gilded, but let's be frank- few of us could pull off the sparkling chandelier and golden bed like Thran does," Gladhrion replied.
"True. Can you imagine having that bed?"
"I am starting to," Gladhrion admitted.
"As am I… I wonder if King Thranduil would divulge the plans for it?" Farion asked from a chaise near the fire.
Thranduil came out and raised a brow at his relatives and Legolas' friend. "Indeed I will if you ask nicely," he said to Farion. "Now, are you three done daydreaming or shall I tell Legolas to get back in the bath?"
"We are ready, cousin! Just give me a few minutes to crawl out of your bed," Gladhrion joked.
"I will remember you said that when you finally ask me to make one for you," Thranduil quipped.
"I still cannot fathom what one does with a bed that big," Elior said.
"Can you not?" Legolas chimed in as he left the bathroom. "I can and I am not even married yet."
"Ah, but you will be soon!" Elior said, popping up out of the plush chair he was in and coming over to his cousin. "Are you ready to bring your bride into your bed?"
Legolas grinned. He truly hadn't told Elior, and frankly, he was glad he and Lothril had been sharing a bed for months. It made the whole prospect less intimidating. "I am," he answered.
"That's the attitude, cousin! And remember it when you suddenly freeze trying to undress the both of you because you realize this will be the first time you have seen a naked elleth and the first time one has seen you."
Legolas raised a brow. "I think you are forgetting several of my injuries. The healers have seen me several times and I have lived to tell the tale."
"Oh, that's right. The groin injury," Elior said. "But you still haven't seen her, and that can be just as nerve wracking."
Elior got looks from the other four.
"Exactly how nervous were you at your wedding?" Farion asked.
"Legolas! This is about you - shall we get you ready?" Elior deflected.
-⸙ - ⸙-
Lothril adored her brothers. Elladan was playing a most relaxing rippling tune on a harp, Elrohir didn't do more than tell her to roll over, respond to an odd comment, or ask her if she wanted him to be firmer or softer with his touch.
"You two really are the best," she said as without worked on her shoulders.
"I marvel you say that given how tense you feel," Elrohir said.
"Whatever you don't get, Legolas will later," she replied.
Both twins gave a soft snort at that. "Somehow, I do not think either of you will have the patience for that."
She raised a brow, though only Elladan could see it and it was comical with her face half smooshed into a pillow. "And why is that?"
"I thought you didn't want to talk?" Elrohir replied.
"Just answer the question."
"Since you asked - you are practically vibrating with want."
"You can feel that?" She asked, surprised.
"Of course, gwathel! I expected you to feel like this, by the by, so it is hardly shocking," Elrohir said, amused at his sister.
"It is still strange to me how comfortable elves are with stuff."
"Most of us are, but being sons of Elrond, we are more so," Elrohir said.
"Brought work home with him, eh?"
"He considers basic healing craft as a life skill. We learned it with reading, writing, riding, and hunting," Elladan commented as he played.
Lothril snorted a quiet laugh and Elrohir smiled slightly then said, "Alright, close your eyes Lothril, and relax."
"I am enjoying this conversation," she replied.
"I know, but I am about to work on your knots and it will be easier if you are relaxed," he replied.
She gave an agreeing hum and took a deep breath to help herself relax.
-⸙⸙-
"Well! Well! Let us see!" Linnrien called impatiently as Mindonith and Elladan finished her hair and making sure her dress was just so.
"Yes, we grow impatient!" Elrohir called out jokingly.
"Hush! She gets to see herself first!" Mindonith called back then turned her gaze back to Lothril. "All done, friend! Take a look!"
She lead her over to a full length mirror. The dress was a pale grey with a sheet white fabric over it alternating with green needle lace that has a very mossy feel to it, but was actually leaves and lothil. Little sparkling beads and gems peeked out here and there to make her glimmer just a touch. The bodice was fitted and flattered her small bust, the neckline was low with the green lace creeping up over the edge to create The illusion of creeping moss, and the skirt was full enough to lend an air of ethereal a she moved and it swapped and dragged behind. But above all, it matched her necklace and ring perfectly. She turned her head this way and that trying to see the waves in it and the flowers and gems until Elladan stood behind her holding up a mirror.
"You look like a wood elf, without question," Elladan said with a smile. "Fair and lovely and of the trees but in love with the stars. If Legolas isn't beside himself when he sees you I will be shocked!"
"Oh, he will be," Mindonith said with a grin. "Beyond doubt."
Lothril smiled. "I do hope so. How long until things start?" She looked at herself again in the mirror. Dang, she looked good! Vain? Maybe, but dang!
"A little less than two hours," Elladan said. "But I think our father will be here soon to fetch you."
Lothril left the spare bedroom she had gotten ready in and went into the sitting room where she was met with smiles and compliments from Linnrien, Cîlwen, Elrohir, and Elrond who had come for her. Elrond stood to meet her and took her hands.
"Shall we go for a walk before hand?"
"Yes," Lothril said with a smile. She was getting excited again.
-⸙ - ⸙-
Back in Legolas' room, there was an astounding number of friends and family members there pulling extremely long garlands of autumn leaves, lothil, and autumn blooms out of large baskets and hanging all over the room.
"Istelion, do you remember how Thranduil said to attach the posters and the frame?" asked Thalaves, Gladhrion's wife, as she took one of the tall posters out of the wooden trunk they were stowed in.
Istelion nodded. "I do remember, he said they screw on to the knobs."
"And what of the frame for the top?" Belneth asked.
Istelion looked at the pieces with a crooked half frown and a raised brow. "It made sense when he said it, but it does not now that I am looking at it."
"Should we send someone to ask the king to explain it again, or maybe come and-" Belneth began to suggest, but then the door opened and in came Thranduil carrying a small tray.
"Just the ellon we need!" Istelion exclaimed. "Thranduil, I am having trouble figuring out how to assemble the frame and such."
"I have a few minutes as Legolas is preoccupied, so I will help," Thranduil said. He opened Legolas' nightstand drawer and saw a bottle in there with a tag. He pulled it out, put the tray in, and before replacing the bottle, caught a glimpse of the tag and then paused to read it briefly. "My word, Elrond, I didn't think you had it in you!" Thranduil thought to himself as he put the bottle back in and shut the drawer, then turned his attention to the box of bed pieces. "I suggest putting the posters on, then assembling the frame and setting it onto the top and securing it with these," he said as he held up a large knob that looked like a pinecone but was cut with a hole in the middle and two notches so it could slide over the top of the post and frame, locking it together. "As for the frame, it is a simple dovetail. The pieces that go together are marked with matching symbols and can be knocked together with the mallet in the box."
Once it was understood how it worked, the posts went up and the frame on the posts within minutes and they began stringing leaves and flowers back and forth across it while others were putting bouquets and smaller garlands and ropes of flowers and leaves anywhere and everywhere they could manage. All told, it probably took less than an hour for the room to be transformed from an albeit luxurious bedroom of stone, into a veritable forest garden.
Elladan and Elrohir came in and Elladan said, "Ah, you all work quickly. We were hoping to help a little, but it looks all done."
"Indeed, it is," Belneth said. "We are about to start hiding gifts. King Thranduil and your father already came in and hid theirs in the near nightstand, but the rest of the room is fair game."
The twins both smiled. Oh… this might be fun…
-⸙ - ⸙-
The sun was slowly setting, golden hour was soon, which was threatening to be spectacular with the vibrant autumn leaves. They went out and took a longer route to the gardens and talked.
"You know, I cannot decide if the way the last two years have played out makes me happy or sad, as very little of my day to day life is going to change," Lothril said as they went along.
"I think given the extreme amount of changes you have gone through the last two years, it is for the best. You need some constancy," Elrond said.
She chuckled, "That's true enough."
"You will find it different though, all the same. And not just love making. No matter how many different directions you will be pulled, you will find he is always there for you."
She smiled. She very much liked that thought.
"Do you remember the blessings?" Elrond asked.
She nodded. "I do. I wrote them down in a notebook and I have been reading them every night before bed for weeks now. The absolute last thing I want to do is mess that up!"
"I think you will be fine then," he said encouragingly.
"I am a little sad though that you are not involved more in the ceremony."
"I made my peace with it with Arwen. And I will have my turn to pronounce blessings if either of my sons wed."
"Do you think they will?" Lothril asked.
"Neither has told me they do not wish to wed, so it is a possibility, but who can say?"
"So no ellith waiting for them in Imladris?"
Elrond gave a half grin. "Not that I know of."
She took a deep breath. "Ada?"
"Man te, iell nín? (What is it, my daughter?)"
Thank you for the kindness and love you have shown me. Thank you for seeing the wounds and pain I was living with and being willing to help me heal. Thank you for walking beside me all this time and bringing me to a place where I feel free from the pain and shame and am instead of full of joy and eagerness at the thought of joining with Legolas. I owe much of how I am now to you. Thank you!"
Elrond stopped and took both of her hands in his. "It is my joy to see you happy and whole."
He gave her a hug and she loved the fact he gave wonderful, warm dad hugs. She felt a brief bit strong pang of grief wash over her as she suddenly missed her own father.
"Let it out, Lothril. You can grieve their absence," Elrond said quietly.
She hugged him again and wept quietly for a minute or two before the wave of grief passed. Elrond handed her a handkerchief and she dried her eyes with it.
"Thanks, Ada."
"You're welcome. Now, there is no rush, bu whenever you feel yourself sufficiently collected, we can head to the clearing."
"I'm ready," she said.
"Then let us go!"
They walked in companionable silence most of the way, though she did thank him again for being willing to blend some of the Noldorin traditions with Silvan and Sindarin ones. As they turned down the last bend in the path Elrond asked, "Have you seen the clearing?"
"No. Legolas wouldn't let me near it for weeks now. At first I was a bit miffed at him, but then he said he wanted to gift it to me and I have been going mad trying to figure out what he meant by it since," she answered.
"I think you shall be pleased with what you see," Elrond said as the doors opened.
The golden sunlight was shining in through the leaves, turning everything gold and emerald. The path leading to the clearing was clearly marked by white lights hanging off of slender silver poles that were about as high as her knees and a neat border of blooming lothil. Ahead she could see the first glimpses of the clearing through the trees, and it looked like something enchanted out of a fairy tale. She wanted to run ahead and see it, but Elrond kept at his steady pace and so did she. As they drew closer, the silver poles grew taller and taller and began holding two lights, and then three, making it so even the tallest elf there would have a light hanging just above the top of his head. At the end of the path, there was a large arch created by the trees which was fairly dripping with lights and globes of glass or crystal, which threw the light in all directions.
The tables were all laden with cloths of silver and garlands of many colored flowers and leaves, and the tables were heavy laden with silver and gold. They were arranged along the outer edge of the clearing, as usual, but behind the head table, which was the first thing one noticed upon reaching the clearing, was a trellis behind the middle two seats, hung with rich cloths and strings of glass beads that made it seem like it was raining light. Indeed, the whole clearing looked as if it were raining light. Lights of gold, silver, and blue were strung all around, hanging down at differing heights, giving the appearance that light was raining down upon them. It almost looked like the falling sparks of fireworks frozen in the air.
Thranduil and Legolas were standing on the far side of the clearing talking and as soon as Thranduil noticed Lothril and Elrond enter, he said something to Legolas and nodded his head in their direction. Legolas turned and paused. She was a vision! Her dress was fair, and he adored how she looked in it, but what pleased him more was seeing she remembered he wished to wed her with lothil in her hair, which sparkled with green gems and the star bound on her brow. But all this paled in comparison to her eyes and how they glittered and glowed with the lights in the trees. The smile upon her face warm his heart like the sun. Was she not a vision of all the things elves loved best? That he loved best? He very nearly ran over to her.
Taking her hands he asked, "What do you think?"
"I have never seen such a beautiful sight!"
"Do you forgive me for keeping you from helping?"
"Quite," she said, turning to look at him. "Filegon outdid himself on your clothes. You, oh daer, look gorgeous."
He wore a green tunic with a silvery white and green jaquered robe in the same pattern as her lace and a silver circlet.
Galadriel and Celeborn and Thranduil approached them.
"Naneth-na Galadriel," Lothril said with a smile as she walked up, "thank you again for doing this!"
"Of course, Lothril! It is my pleasure, I assure you," Galadriel replied. "And you both look very fair!"
"Thank you," Lothril replied with a blush.
"It is very well that you both have chosen to honor her father and mother in this way," Celeborn said.
She nodded and Legolas tightened his arm around her slightly to comfort her.
"It would have felt wrong to do nothing, and wearing symbols of their blessing and clothes that reflect it was, I think, the best way of making them present without changing our traditions," Legolas said.
"Very well done," Thranduil agreed.
"How long until everyone else arrives?" Lothril asked, the moment of grief passing.
"Soon," Thranduil answered. "But here, have something to drink," he said and handed her his wine cup. He understood.
So did Legolas. He had spent a good amount of his readying time thinking about his mother and how much he wished she could be here. The biggest difference though being that when they sailed, she would meet his bride and spend many long years with them.
"Our family and friends are coming," he said, looking over her shoulder down the path.
She turned and saw all the wedding guests were walking down the path. All told, there were about fifty in attendance, so it did not take long to greet everyone and have everyone be seated. Music had begun to be played as soon as the first guest stepped over the threshold, and only paused briefly for Thranduil to make some brief remarks and then the feasting began. Lothril had always been impressed with Thranduil's table, but this was all favorite things and it lasted until the sun set and then the lights in the trees truly came into their own. Just as desserts began to be finished, the minstrels began playing more lively tunes, and the members of Thranduil's house stood first to begin dancing. Soon only a few guests were left at the tables along with the bride and bridegroom.
"How long until we exchange rings?" Lothril asked.
"Just a little while longer," Legolas said with a smile. "In the meanwhile, shall we go dance?"
"Yes, let's," she replied.
He led her out to the middle of the clearing and they joined the other revelers.
Thranduil smiled as he looked and saw nothing but joyful faces, heard nothing but laughter, song, and glad conversation. Amongst the crowd though he saw Estelneth there with her husband dancing and was quite pleased. The song ended and he made his way over to where she was standing and talking with a servant. She didn't see him come up and started slightly when she heard Thranduil say, "I hope this conversation is not work related."
She immediately turned and bowed. "Your majesty, forgive me I did not see-"
"No need for apologies, Estelneth. Of course, you did not see me for I came up behind you," he said, his tone casual and very friendly. "And I was teasing by the way; we may be a little friendlier tonight. Tonight, you are both my guests and I am merely Thranduil, father of Legolas so we may forgo the titles and bowing. That goes for you also, Raithon."
The guard looked a little shocked, but he smiled and gave a polite nod of his head as he replied, "We are honored to be your guests this evening."
"I am honored to have you, though I am surprised to see you actually dancing," Thranduil asked.
To his eternal surprise, Estelneth gave a genuine laugh and replied, "You may thank Lady Lothril. She said if I did not come enjoy myself she was going to make me move to Ithilien with her and then promptly put me out of a job by promoting me to friend and making me her neighbor."
"I would think most would leap at such a chance," Thranduil replied.
"Perhaps, but I would grow so bored. Raithon is a good soldier and very neat and easily managed. I should lose my mind with nothing to do," she answered.
Thranduil glanced at Raithon who added, "It is true, sir. I need little keeping and she likes being busy."
"Do you not have any hobbies or other interests?" Thranduil asked.
"I have many, but I am too efficient for my own good. I keep chickens, but my dog is well trained and so he minds them for me and I need only feed, water, and hunt eggs, which is quick work. I like flowers, but my flowers are hardy and need little attending except for some weeding. I have a vegetable garden, but my garden is raised and it is enclosed in a cage of wood and chicken wire that is buried deep, so I have little threat from pests. I do sew, but as Lothril insists on little aid from me, I find I can do much of it when she is out with the Prince or else we are together and talking. Often she joins me for she likes sewing as well. So see? I have too much time on my hands. Especially as she is insistent on her servants running efficiently also and then she is so insistent on doing things herself. If I may, I think your wife knew I like being busy and so she went out of her way to keep me busy, or so it seemed, and I appreciated it greatly," Estelneth replied in one of the longest responses he had ever gotten from her in casual conversation.
Thranduil could not help but smile and shake his head a little. "I have long suspected I could replace Galion with you and things may run smoother, but I could not do that to him after all these years. However, if you like I may suggest to Legolas he put you in such a position in Ithilien, if you both wish to remove yourselves there."
Estelneth blushed a little at the compliment but otherwise sounded lighthearted as she replied, "I may perchance be more efficient than Galion, but he is better with people than I am and far more longsuffering. If I may speak candidly, Galion puts up with much in his dealings that I would not desire to put up with."
"Should I as king be concerned with what he is putting up with?" Thranduil asked, suddenly looking a little more serious.
"No, no! Nothing ill or awry, just silly little things. He reads people well and so he knows how to coax out of them their best and keep things running smoothly. For example, he is the one who suggested the kitchens all pick staff to go into Dale and survey vendors regularly to make sure everything is best. Before that they used to come here, but that was too curated and they have found some of the smaller farms have some of the better produce and meat. Then there are things like ridiculous captains that think because they hold military rank that it means anything for domestic servants, so Galion simultaneously lets them think that while allowing the domestic servants to keep on doing what they do and how they do it," she answered.
"I should thank him for the improved food, but I am not sure I like the sound of captains ordering servants that are not under them," Thranduil said.
"Allow me to give you more context – some of the captains like to say things like, 'This ought to be done this way because this is how we do it', which may be fine in a guardhouse, but it does not suit a palace at all. So, for a long while they would say things like this to the servants and some of the servants would grow confused and think that it was an order because everything coming from a commanding officer sounds like an order even when it is not and it caused confusion and disorder. But how does one tell an officer with a high rank that they cannot give commands? Galion knew he theoretically outranks them in the palace as your butler, but he also knew him giving them a command would end poorly, so instead once a month he has invited certain commanders to give him their suggestions which he writes down and then usually sends to servants to use as kindling. Though, he has gotten a handful of good suggestions over the years, as I understand it. But the good suggestions compared to the volume is hardly enough to justify letting those commanders just spew their suggestions to the heads of departments regularly. That is why you will occasionally see him walking about with your commanders," she explained.
Thranduil smiled. "I see. Well enough of work business, this is a celebration. Are you both enjoying yourselves?"
"Very much so, sir," Raithon replied.
"Very much, indeed," Estelneth answered.
"Good, I am glad to hear it. Now, am I wrong in thinking I did not see you both at the beginning of the festivities?"
"No sir, you did not," Estelneth replied. "I was finishing arranging milady's things in the prince's chambers and Raithon was aiding me."
"Raithon? Then you are a good husband and a good guard. But Estelneth, why did you not order another to do things so you could join us? You are an invited guest, after all," Thranduil said.
"Lothril said the same, but I should have been vexed greatly if things were arranged badly and since she has been flatly insistent on no servants until Enedhor, I wanted to make sure things were arranged how she was used to them," Estelneth answered.
"Or in short – she is a perfectionist," Raithon quipped.
Gandalf was present and setting off fireworks between dances. There were glittering leaves that started green and fell to orange and red and gold before disappearing above the heads of the elves, there were shining silver blossoms of lothil, colorful butterflies that settled on the strings lights, throwing their colors around, and all manner of wonders that were utterly amazing to Lothril. She had seen her share of fireworks on the Fourth of July, but it was nothing like this! The fireworks delighted the elves, as always, and everyone was very glad to allow the wizard to observe their wedding traditions in exchange for this.
After a couple hours of dancing, Thranduil came over and put a hand on his son and asked, "Are we ready to exchange rings or shall we wait a while longer?"
Legolas looked at Lothril. "I am ready now," he said.
Lothril nodded and then looked at Thranduil who was smiling. "Now, or at the end of the song. Close enough," she said.
Thranduil laughed and said, "I shall make the arrangements." He went over to Gandalf and told him they were about to exchange rings and blessings then ordered the table be moved away. At the end of the song the butterflies of light faded and Gandalf set off another firework that settled above the trellis in an umbrella of shining green leaves and silver lothil.
Legolas led Lothril over to it and they stood in front of it and were soon joined by Elrond, Galadriel, and Thranduil. Everyone turned to watch. Galadriel and Thranduil joined the hands of Legolas and Lothril and blessed them. For as giddy as Lothril was, she also felt very solemn and joyful as she listened to them speak. Then Galadriel gave to Legolas a star that she put upon him, and Thranduil gave to Lothril a jewel which he fastened onto her dress, and then Legolas and Lothril returned their silver rings to each other and exchanged gold rings. After that, they exchanged their blessings and named the Name.
A great cheer went up, and everyone began drinking to the health of the newlyweds. They stayed for a few rounds of toasts and then per Silvan tradition, Legolas took Lothril by the hand and sneakily led her around the edge of the clearing and down the path to their room.
No one had marked their departure except Elrond and Thranduil.
"It brings back memories, does it not?" Thranduil said quietly to Elrond.
He smiled, watching them retreat and said, "Yes, it does."
"Truly Elrond, how long shall you tarry here?"
"I plan to depart next year. You?"
Thranduil's face remained placid, but his eyes suddenly looked sad. "Not yet. Legolas has plans that will free me up to sail sooner or later, but I think there are still a few years left for me here."
"It never grows easier, does it?" Elrond said, looking at his friend.
Thranduil shook his head. "I miss her dearly."
Elrond clapped a hand on his friend's shoulder and handed Thranduil a cup. "To the newlyweds."
Thranduil smiled and his eyes resumed their merriment. "To the newlyweds," he repeated, and they drank to the happy couple.
Mindonith noticed they were missing next as she was trying to find them to give them her personal congratulations. Upon realizing they were gone, she cried, "They have gone! They have gone!"
A great cheer went up and everyone drank to their wedding and joy.