[Child of the 7th Age]

Eckthelion looked over at his family and smiled. His two daughters, each with their own personalities and gifts, and the young lady Finduilas who was soon to join their family. He'd already made his private apologies to Siriel for not believing her first warning when she had first observed that something was wrong. It was not a mistake he would make again. He leaned over and hugged her, whispering a few words in her ears. Then he turned to acknowledge Tiriel and the Lady Finduilas.

Denethor walked forward and quietly pulled his father to the side, "It is set up then?"

"Perfectly!" His father observed. "And I expect that, by the end of this evening, many will come and pay their respects to your wife-to-be who have not done so before."

Denethor stiffened and looked as if he was about to object, but then pulled back and remained quiet. Even he realized that there were times when the best thing to do was to accept a change with grace.

The family walked together down the corridor and into the state ballroom, with the footpad announcing their arrival. A number of Gondorians turned and bowed or waved their hands in acknowledgment. The musicians struck up a tune, as Denethor leaned over towards the Steward and whispered, "What shall we do now?"

Eckthelion turned to face him with the look of a gracious hostess. "Please, everything is under control. Carry on as you would normally do. Surely you will ask your fiancee for a dance?"

Denethor nodded his head and turned back towards Finduilas, "Lady, will you give me the honor?" He held out his hand and she took it in her own as the two of them stepped out into the center of the ballroom, and, locked in each other's arms, whirled about the floor.

[ October 01, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]