Fantasy The Raven and the Mountain {Closed}

[BoneBrain]

Too often Elwyn's chatter had proved grating for even the most curious elven soul, but this eve had Dufur's attention on her one hundred percent. He didn't seem to tire or grow bored when she paused to relay the minutiae of a certain detail with him. Rather the kind soul listened attentively and told her meaningful stories in return. When the evening wrapped up all too soon Elwyn was hesitant to leave him. For half a moment she considered asking him to join her for the evening, but when his lips caressed the spot near her knuckles her brain chose that moment to malfunction.

Later, after her report for the day was finished and she was tucked feeling blissfully sleepy from Grandmother Nalu's sleeping draught, Elwyn brought out the little gift from the young dwarf and set it on the shelf that hung above her head. She had already placed the earlier dragon from Dufur there and now the sleeping dragon stood guarded by a sentinel. Grandmother Nalu's ring was placed there next and settled back down on her soft bed. Elwyn reached for the catalogue book she had been dutifully filling and wrote until she was too tired to keep her eyes open.

The following morning was quite the spectacle with Grandmother Nalu and Kyrie blowing into the room like a summer storm. The fussed and prodded and Elwyn did her best to keep still under their ministrations as they adorned her. Elwyn took in the flowing fabric and jewels in the mirror and wondered for a brief moment what it would be like to dress herself. The wishful thinking disappeared as Kyrie approached to attach a crown to her gathered up hair. A knock came at the door which Grandmother Nalu answered. At Grandmothers noise of excitement Elwyn turned to see a small group of Dwarven women enter the room. Each of them bowed deeply and she returned the gesture.

"Princess mother, we've come to offer our assistance for your upcoming joining." One of them said, a bright smile plastered to her features. Elwyn blinked in surprise for a moment but a grin leapt over her features and she nodded.
"Oh wonderful. I've got the texts just here." Elwyn gathered up two tightly bound books and rushed over to her table to lay them out. The group gathered close and spoke of plans until the breakfast gong had been rung.

 

[Rainelle]

It was indeed a long morning, the group was immersed in planning until the late afternoon, taking breakfast and lunch in Elwyn's quarters and coordinating servants throughout the palace. There was an arboretum deep within the keep that had a skylight where they could be wed under the light of the full moon. They would decorate the taller trees with garlands of glowing crystals, and the few attending would wear colors to match the flowers that were blooming currently. Enchanted instruments were brought in to play Elvin music during the ceremony. Since Elwyn was being married, she could not preform the ceremony herself. Kyrie would officiate, and Lorne, the head guard sent with her, would be Elwyn's witness. The king, of course, would be Dufur's witness. Afterward, there would be a grand ball in the dining hall with the nobles.

Though the party wasn't necessary, the Dwarfs loved to party, and what better thing to celebrate then the marriage of their one and only crown prince? The ladies who had joined Elwyn, Miria, Preate, and Gemna, all expressed their excitement to introduce Elwyn to the other noble ladies. They also spent most of the group's breaks gossiping about how dreamy her husband was.

Preate had emerald tattoos shooting through her well muscled arms like lightning bolts, and honey blonde hair done in a web of braids. her beard was adorned with many little trinkets and stones. She was the daughter of a family that worked in the outer city in trading, and knew the most of the three of other cultures. She was sitting at Elwyn's desk, and twirled her hair around a finger. "Honestly, princess mother, you absolutely must tell us all about when you visit his forge!"

"Oh, yes!" Miria giggled, blushing madly. "You must tell us if he really does look like a forge god under his tunic!" She was the youngest of them, and had deep brown hair and pink quartz markings. She was the daughter of an ancient mining family. Gemma swatted them both with a huff, a slight smile peeking out through her lips.

"Oh, by the Blue Sage, stop it, both of you! That is much too private to share. Be a little prudent, huh? Like you're nobles?" The other girls laughed and she rolled her eyes. "Forgive them, princess mother. They are still girls, and have at least two decades before they can marry." Before Elwyn could respond, Kyrie entered with a bow, holding a velvet box.

"My lady, a gift from the prince." The women squealed and pushed her up off the bed to open it. Once she did so, it revealed a beautiful, crystalline orchid flower. The Dwarfs all gasped and nearly screamed, jumping up and down with excitement.

"No, no! Oh, I'm going to faint!" Miria swooned against Gemma. Preate leaned over and examined the piece, her eyes glittering.

"This is by the gem smith Diamondheart! He only takes commissions once every three decades! I've never seen his work in person. He truly treasures you, princess mother." Gemma gave the elf a crooked grin.

"You must know the meaning of the flower, princess mother, do you not? What a lucky woman you are--such a passionate man devoted to you."

 

[BoneBrain]

The hours flew by, Elwyn engrossed herself in the planning and chatter of the Dwarven women. All three of them seemed so friendly and free with their laughter. It had brought Elwyn a great source of pride when she had slipped in a little joke that had been well received with tittering laughter. Conversations like these reminded Elwyn of her sister and most treasured cousin and nights with fine Elven wine. The conversation once again slipped to the positive attributes of her husband and Elwyn marveled at the cavalier nature of Dwarves. This and her husbands forward courting had certainly been quite the change from the reserved nature of Elves, such acts of intimacy and provocative words had been saved for closed doors.

"There is nothing to forgive." Elwyn said to Gemna. Though it felt a bit strange to speculate on the finer details of Dufur, and perhaps she wished to save that intimate part of her marriage to herself; Elwyn did not wish to offend or drive away the women that had been so instrumental in their help regarding the joining. Perhaps these three could be her first friends. Elwyn had about to muster the courage to say something just as salacious when Kyrie presented her with another box from Dufur.

Elwyn had to laugh as the women gathered around her all eager to see the latest of the gifts she'd been showered with. The room filled with a collective gasp and then uproarious noise as the Dwarven women grew elated. Elwyn was grateful to Gemna once again who offered her an explanation of the fine crystal gift. Elwyn reached out and ran a finger down the smooth edges of the orchid.

"This is incredible." She whispered and the women once again spoke eagerly around her. At the mention of the orchids meaning Elwyn's brow furrowed for a moment as she fought to recall the information. "I believe it has something to do with a pure love? Perhaps Elven flower meanings are different." Elwyn's eyes lifted to the women as she once again sought their wisdom. "Dufur has given so many gifts to me, I wish to do the same for him. In Elven customs it is most impolite to not give a gift in return. Something of equal value. Might you offer some guidance on that subject?" Elwyn peered at the women earnestly.

 

[Rainelle]

Miria squealed in delight, and laughed excitedly, jumping in to explain before the others could. "Princess mother, in our culture this flower means love, luxury, beauty, strength, and..." She laughed again "Many strong children! Oh, how I wish I could be courted like this." She sighed dreamily, melting onto the bed in a fit of giggles. The other women rolled their eyes as they settled back into sitting. Gemna stroked her beard thoughtfully at Elwyn's question. It was Preate who answered.

"Hmm. I can see why that would be difficult for you, princes mother. But in our culture, the way you show appreciation is by showcasing the gifts. Wear what he gifts you, make the things you can't centerpieces in the home."

"It's also common to return gifts if you have access to a forge, but considering the prince's experience, that might be insulting." Gemna chimed in. "Perhaps you can share gifts that are common in your culture? After all, cultural exchange is a large part of the joining, correct? Or speak to him, if you feel the gifts are excessive. I'm sure the prince would hate it if you become uncomfortable from his advances." The other women nodded. "My wife pursued me just as fiercely." Gemna smiled at the memory.

The ladies spent the rest of the afternoon and early evening together chatting, until the Dwarfs left to help prepare the ball as the full moon drew closer. Kyrie and Nalu escorted her to the arboretum. Inside, Dufur and Dufun stood shoulder to shoulder, their hair and beards groomed in an elven style, with ear cuffs to give them the illusion of pointed ears. They were dressed in simple, elegant white clothes also of elven make and decorated with glowing jewels. Kyrie lead Elwyn to the center of the space, under the skylight. She joined hands with Dufur, and as the moon reached it's apex, Kyrie began the melodic, song like chant that was the rite of joining. The chant lasted until the moon passed it's apex, and Kyrie placed her hands over the clasped ones of the couple as she finished. Dufur lifted Elwyn's hands to his lips, and kissed her knuckles softly, before lifting his head and speaking softly in broken Elvish.

"<You are truly beautiful, my wife. I am honored to be bound to you.>" He and the king gave a laugh at the startled expressions of the Elves. Elwyn took Dufur's arm as they began to make their way back to the dining hall. "Surely it was not that startling, my Jewel?" Dufur teased, pressing his hand over her own gently.

 

[BoneBrain]

The conversations and the joining had given Elwyn quite a bit to think about, it had given her quiet the start to see her husband and his father dressed in elven garb. Their white linen had been awash with colour from the crystal lights that lined the trees and circled the center of the arboretum. Elwyn had dressed in traditional elven wear, her own white gown was modest with a high neckline and long sleeves that brushed along the floor as she approached her husband. Kyrie was splendid in her blessing as she chanted good fortunes over them under the pale light of the moon. Elwyn's face lifted to the silver orb that hung in the sky and her eyes closed as she basked in its gentle glow. She'd grown up loving the stories told around dying fires that spoke of the moon as an eye of a dragon who watched over them.

Dufur's broken Elven had Elywn's eyes opening in surprise and she gave him an elated smile. "<I am honoured, my kind protector.>" She whispered back to him in her mother tongue. When the joining had finished Elwyn and Dufur made their way back to the dining hall, and as they drew nearer uproarious laughter and lively music greeted them. Elwyn had to laugh as they entered and she spotted Gleendr attempting a complicated looking jig that she recognized to be an Elven dance. Her hand found Dufur's and she led him towards the center of the room and lifted her skirts a little to show both the men the proper footwork.

They spent long moments there, laughing in each others company, twirling around friends old and new. The party lasted till the wee hours of the morning and by the time Dufur escorted Elwyn from the hall a number of Dwarves were slumped into one another happily as half full tankards rested in their limp fingers.
"I wish all Elven joining's were like this." Elwyn giggled into Dufur's shoulder as she did her best to hold onto her skirts and her husband as they walked the stairs up to her rooms. "I've never seen such life and joy before. All the previous joining's were so serious." Elwyn did her best to make a serious face to demonstrate but failed miserably as laughter took her once again. They reached her rooms and Dufur pressed a kiss to her knuckles, he'd wished her goodnight and was about to depart when Elwyn captured his hand. Her bottom lip was caught between her teeth as she struggled to find the courage to complete her mission.

Elwyn had given serious consideration to the advice given to her from the other Dwarven women and she had concocted a fine gift for her husband.
"I have something for you. A gift." She told him in a rushed voice, her hand remained gripped tightly around his sturdy fingers and she reached behind her for the door handle to her room. With a quiet creak of the door Elwyn led Dufur inside and gestured that he take a seat on the large chaise in her receiving room. In the days since her arrival, Elwyn had set the room to her liking, filling the shelves with books and small trinkets from her travels. Once she was certain he was seated comfortably, she rushed to her desk that was littered with all sorts of notes and parchment and opened one of the bottommost drawers.

From it's hiding place, Elwyn pulled a small leather pouch. She approached Dufur, her little treasure clutched tightly in her hands, her eyes seemed to dark everywhere, never stopping to focus on one thing. She settled next to him, and paused for a moment to take a steadying breath.
"Back at the Autumn Grove we had many lush gardens and grew seeds traded to us. I spent a few summers helping my sister there, she wanted me to create a book that catalogued each of the plants properties. I learned a lot from her, she showed me which plants brought protection and luck, which could paralyze and which could irritate the skin with just a touch." To emphasize her point, Elwyn reached out with a gentle hand and brushed a finger down Dufur's forearm. Truthfully she could have gone on for hours about the many interesting properties of the plants that grew under the green glass of the Autumn Grove. However the little pouch was burning to be opened in her hands and she pressed it towards Dufur.

The gentle Dwarf pulled the drawstring of the pouch open and reached in. A long delicate silver chain appeared as he lifted his hand. A small bottle filled with dried flowers hung from the end of the necklace.
"I saved some of the more interesting flowers and leaves." Elwyn explained. "Damask Daisy, for loyalty. Silversuckle for passion." Elwyn's cheeks flared pink at the words but she continued on. "And lastly some Yellow Crowfoot... for love." Elwyn's fingers twisted together in her lap and she peered nervously at Dufur.

 

[Rainelle]

The evening was certainly an unforgettable one. The party lasted well into the wee hours of the morning, but everyone seemed to enjoy themselves which was really what mattered. Dufur walked Elwyn back to her rooms, a small nightly ritual he found himself looking fowrard to. Just as he was about to release her to sleep, she stopped him and drew him in. He sat when she gestured for him to do so, and watched her nervously twitter about for a moment before retrieving a small pouch and placing it in his hands. She sat herself, and Dufur peered at her curiously before gently opening the parcel. Inside was a glass vial full of dried flowers, and Elwyn explained the meaning of each, blushing something terrible.

"Dear Jewel, it's a wonderful gift, thank you." He gave her a bright smile before putting the necklace on and tucking it safely under his tunic. Dufur reached out and took her hand in his. "I look forward to spending my days beside you, until I return to the stone, my wife." He chuckled at the blush getting even deeper. He released her hand and stood with a sigh. "I should be getting to my room now, lest Grandmother flay me in the morning." Elwyn stood with him, and looked quite reluctant through her flustered state. Dufur paused, thinking a moment before speaking.

"Unless you'd like me to stay, my Jewel? I'd be happy to sleep on the rug, if that pleases you." Elwyn looked even more flustered, fidgeting with her hands and spluttering slightly. "You're just too adorable, my treasured one." He murmured, stroking his beard in thought. Shaking himself out of it, he headed towards the door, pausing as he put his hand on the knob. "We have much to do tomorrow, so we best be getting some sleep. I'm sorry if I displeased you with my offer, my wife." He said softly.

 

[BoneBrain]

He accepted the gift with such grace and kindness and Elwyn could have wept tears of happiness that her token was accepted. She'd been so nervous as she had collected a some of her treasured samples and put the bottle together. How pleasing it was, that her husband would love trinkets like her. She was still basking in the glow of her triumph when Dufur's next words barreled into her heart. Word's caught in her throat and she felt the flame of blush move over every inch of her body.

She blinked up at him, her eyes wide with pure pleasure at the idea of spending the night with him. Her brain slowly whirred back to life but a few moments too late as Dufur took her silence and agape expression as rejection. His kind eyes seemed to dull a bit as regret forced his brows to furrow and his shoulders to slacken. His apologies came quickly then and Elwyn had to force herself out of her dazed state and to her feet as he approached the door. She collided into him as his hand circled the handle.
"I am not displeased!" She cried, her face burrowing into the white linen of his back, her arms circling around his waist from behind as she warred with her mind. "Apologies husband, once again your sweet words rendered me mute a moment." He smelled like fire and man and the mixture was intoxicating. The thread of his shirt was soft against her cheek and she took in the warmth that emanated from his muscular back.

"May... May I see your rooms? I've been quite curious to see where you nest." Elwyn finally let go of him then and her hands once against twined together as she fought past the modesty that had been so ingrained in her teachings. "I wish to know you deeply Dufur. To hear about what makes you happy, what interests you."

 

[Rainelle]

Dufur was taken aback by her bold actions, a small grunt coming from him as she threw her full weight onto his back. Elwyn rested there for a moment as she spoke, muffled into his shirt. Dufur let out a bright, hearty laugh as she detached herself from him and asked her questions. He smiled and gave a nod, taking her hand as he left her rooms. They met Kyrie in the hall, and Dufur bade her to fetch all the things her mistress would need to settle in for the night. With a knowing sparkle in her eye, the woman bowed and went to do as he asked.

Dufur led Elwyn up the hall to his rooms, opening the door for her as she entered. His chambers were much smaller than hers, only a bedroom and an accompanying bathroom. The bed was built into the wall, as was the fireplace and bookshelf on the opposite wall. Unlike her chambers, his had no windows, lit only by the torches and fireplace. The space was clean and neat, but well lived in. The desk by the bookshelf was covered in plans and papers, his bed was unmade, and a small tinkering station in the corner by the door was piled high with broken trinkets.

"I'm afraid it's nothing much to look at, but this is my home." He said. The bed was certainly big enough for them to share, of his wife did not object to some sharking of body heat. If she was uncomfortable, there was a high backed chaise by the fire he'd fallen asleep on many nights which would do just fine. Above the fireplace hung a large tapestry of his linage, going back several hundred years. While Elwyn began to explore the room, Dufur began to undress. He shed the tight Elvin coat and tunic, exposing his hairy chest and well muscled back, covered in scars and old burns. Next he took out the tight bun, a small sigh of relief escaping his lips as his hair fell to his shoulders, the pressure on his scalp eased. He began to shed his many jewels and trinkets when a squeak came from across the room. He turned, finding his wife staring at him through her fingers, blush evident to the tips of her ears.

"My Jewel?" He asked softly, concern wrinkling his brow. "What troubles you?" Before she could answer, a knock came at the door. "Come." He called calmly. Kyrie entered, seeing the situation and smirking just slightly. She ushered Elwyn into the bathroom without a word. The door snapped shut behind them and Dufur found himself a little bewildered. Shrugging it off, he continued to get ready for bed. He shed his shoes and socks, changed into his night pants, and put out the torches so the room was darker. Then, despite himself made the bed before sitting on the edge, waiting for her and un braiding his beard.
~

Kyrie had quite a time calming down her mistress enough to get her changed. Finally, Elwyn was dressed in her usal attire, a thin, satin nightgown that went down to her ankles and exposed her chest and shoulders enough to keep her cool. She was terribly worried it was too revealing, obviously overthinking. As she brushed out Elwyn's long hair, Kyrie soothed her.

"My lady, it is perfectly natural for a husband and wife to spend the night together, is it not?" Elwyn nodded "I'm sure the prince would never do anything to make you uncomfortable or untoward, yes? He might be just as nervous as you."

 

[BoneBrain]

Kyrie was victorious in her efforts to calm her Elven princess, and soon with a few deep breaths Elwyn felt her breathing return to normal. A healthy flush remained even as she and Kyrie stepped out of the bathroom. The young maid bowed once and then left the room with the quiet pad of her feet against the stone floors. Elwyn watched her maid go, her gaze very intent on the soft click of the latch of the door as it slid shut. She waited until the last possible moment to turn her gaze to Dufur as he rested on the edge of the bed. He'd changed, and was in the process of undoing the intricate plaiting in his beard. His skilled fingers moved through the dense hair quickly, and Elwyn's eyes were drawn there. She felt a small stuttering in her chest and forced herself to move forward towards him.

The glow of the fireplace did fantastic things to the strong muscles that seemed to cover ever inch of him. Her jaw clenched as her hands lifted, hesitated only for the briefest of moments before stopping his hands.
"May I?" She looked pointedly at the final few braids that had yet to be taken out. At his assent her fingers took the place where his once had been. His hair was coarse and thick under the pads of her fingers as she unwove it. She worked in silence, taking in the comforting lull of his breathing and the occasional pop and crack of the fire. When she finished she ran an experimental hand down before letting it drop to her side. "Everything about Dwarves seems so sturdy." She told him as she turned and took a seat next to him. "Even the very hair that grows upon your face." She resisted the urge to take her hand and rub it along the scruff of his jaw.

At the brush of their shoulders she remembered that he was in fact shirtless and though it did not seem possible she grew another sad of red. Her fingers found solace in her lap and she twisted to face him.
"I must admit that all my knowledge of marriage bed and rituals comes from books and not experience, and my knowledge of Dwarven customs is even more limited. The world appears most eager for those truths." Her gaze lifted and she took him in. "It will be hard to keep a logical mind when you look like..." She couldn't seem to find the words and lifted a hand to gesture all over him, "This." Elwyn couldn't help the bubble of laughter that escaped from her lips and she faintly wondered if she was loosing her mind.

"It's quite the unique situation, I know not why your people need our mountains. Nor do I know how to partake in my duty as your wife." Elwyn mused, her inner most thoughts feeling free around the comforting alluring Dwarf she called husband.

 

[Rainelle]

Dufur watched Elwyn as she entered the room, and hesitated before joining him on the bed. She asked to finish smoothing out his beard and he let her, smiling softly as she did so. Her gentle ministrations had it finished in moments, and then she rambled for a small while. He had noticed her thoughts tended to run away with her mouth when she was nervous. Dufur laughed a little as she finished speaking, then stood.

"Forgive me, precious one, I did not wish to make you uncomfortable." Quickly, Dufur searched about the room for a shirt, and donned one as soon as he found it. Coming over to her, he knelt at her feet and took her hands in his. "I could say the same of Elves, you know. Everything about you is so delicate and ethereal, down to the lashes on your beautiful eyes." He squeezed her hands gently. "I did not intend to bed you in that way tonight, dear Jewel. You seemed so nervous I feared you would faint if I tried, and you are so wispy I don't wish to break you. Besides, it is not our way." He laughed sheepishly, a light blush dusted his cheeks. "We are but in the infancy of our courtship, my wife. I am to court you until you are burning to have me in your bed, and even then the first time is for you alone. We have plenty of time to ease into this side of marriage. I live to serve you, precious one, in all ways. your happiness and comfort are my biggest priority. Please, believe me."

Elwyn seemed only more nervous at his statement, and Dufur sighed softly before standing. When she sat like this, him standing brought them eye to eye. "As my wife, your only duty is to be happy, and share that happiness with me. That is all. We dwarves are simple creatures, after all. As for the mountains, you will discover more tomorrow, and the whole truth in time. Please, have patience with us. You are the first outsider who would be privileged to this knowledge." He looked into her eyes with a smile. "But that is for tomorrow to think about. Tonight, let me give you a kiss, and let you sleep." Before she could protest, Dufur cupped her soft face in his rough hands, and pressed a chaste kiss to Elwyn's hairline. He released her with a bashful grin, before moving over to the chase and sitting down. "The bed is quite small, so we can sleep like this tonight, if that pleases you, my wife."

 

[BoneBrain]

Dufur's kind words give Elwyn some of the answers her curious heart desperately sought, however his words about her delicate nature brought about a sort of fire in her belly that demanded to prove him differently. Her soft hands curled into the soft sheets of his bed, ready to press the matter further but he stood and peered at her with his gentle eyes. All fight went out of her like a light as he cupped her face within his hands and pressed his lips to her forehead. The smile that earned her was magnificent and she wished for a long moment that she could draw so she could capture it and look at it whenever. When Dufur retreated to the chaise she thought of once again denying him and demanding that he return to his rightful place. However his previous words rang true and Elwyn found she was ready to play along and be wooed.

"I hope you have a most restful sleep, husband." Elwyn rose to her feet, taking one of the extra pillows on the bed as well as a blanket. She approached him with a determined glint in her eye and settled the pillow under his head. When she was certain of its position she brought the blanket up over him. Then copying the same gesture he'd done for her, she cupped his study scruff and jaw in her hands. There was only a moments hesitation as she mustered her bravery and then she bent and brushed her lips over his brow. Once her task had been completely she turned away from him and found a comfortable place in the center of his bed.

The two of them shared a quiet smile, before shutting their eyes and slipping into a peaceful rest.

 

[Rainelle]

Dufur found his wife truly adorable. She mirrored him in her actions before they settled down to sleep. He woke before her that morning, enjoying watching her slumber peacefully for some time before her maid entered with breakfast. Elwyn was woken and taken to dress, and Dufur dressed himself as well. They ate together and spoke pleasantly of the day's events, after Kyrie was dismissed.

"After our meal here, we will be going to see of the Heartseakers to your homeland. They will be very heartened to hear words from their Princess Mother before going on such a journey. There are several families leaving with them to establish a new outpost. Many will never return to Homborimm again." Elwyn looked shocked at this, and Dufur continued. "It's not so odd, dear Jewel. Establishing a settlement is a lifetime's work. I'm sure you've seen off Elven convoys to do much the same."
~

After their meal, the couple moved back to the main room of the keep, where they met the King. He gave a smile and walked with them to the bridge where Elwyn first arrived. Again, the crowds were waiting for them. Dufur took Elwyn by the waist, his large hand resting easily in the swell of her hip. The king addressed the crowd first.

"Today we celebrate the 89th battalion of Heartseekers to leave Homborimm. They go to make a settlement with our allies at Autumngrove. May they prosper and make the Blue Sage proud!" The crowd roared, and the Caravan waved. Dufun turned and motioned to Elwyn and Dufur. "Now, our beautiful Princess Mother will speak." The roar was almost deafening, but silenced immediately when Dufur raised a hand. The Paladins before them all knelt and placed a fist over their hearts, waiting for Elwyn to speak.

 

[BoneBrain]

The fineries of their meal put Elwyn in a fine mood, her smile was bright and happy as they traveled through the now familiar halls of the palace. The noise outside was louder as the masses gathered to bid farewell or to travel anew. The roar of the crowd had her straightening, Dufur's hand on her hip caused a rather large smile that she couldn't seem to dim in the least. The crowds quieted as their king addressed them. When finally the king gestured for the two of them to step forward Elwyn's heart quickened a little. Her siblings had always taken on the more public roles while Elwyn was happy to be among the quiet dust and fanciful trinkets of their home. Now, these people needed a send off that would fill them with hope and determination and it seemed it was up to her to bring it.

She and Dufur stepped forward to the cheering crowds. Elwyn's warm smile remained where it was until Dufur called for silence with the raise of his hand. Elwyn lowered her head in return to all those who knelt before her and spoke from the heart.
"Homborimm sends off many great souls this day, and I am honoured to bid you all farewell. The Nissa Royal Court is most eager for fresh faces and new friends. These new beginnings of ours have certainly become quite the adventure for us all and I can think of no finer people than those who have come forward today to complete such an important task. Go in peace and knowledge my friends, you do your Queen Mother proud on this day." Cheer's lifted up through the crowd and Elwyn breathed a sigh of relief. She lifted her hands in farewell as the crowd began to move.

Dwarves jumped in carts, or secured luggage as the first of the caravan began to make its way out of the mountain city and towards the Autumn Grove. They stayed to wave farewell until the last of the caravan was out of sight and on its way to fresh beginnings. She wondered what her homeland would like like after the outpost had been set up, perhaps once of her sisters could draw her a picture. The thought made her smile and she turned to Dufur.

"Again I find your Dwarven traditions so full of feeling... It is a nice change." She thought back to somber good byes and sad music that accompanied the retreating steps of the chosen few to start anew.

 

[Rainelle]

Dufur couldn't be more proud of his wife for her wonderful speech. They watched the caravan leave, and returned inside the keep. His father dismissed the guards and led the couple into his private study. He gave Dufur a look, and the prince began to speak.

"Dear Jewel, today we wish to impart on you one of Homborimm's deepest secrets. But you must swear that you will never tell another soul what you witness, save one letter to your father delivered by courier. Do you understand? You cannot even write it down." Elwyn looked somewhere between elated and nervous, nodding quickly. Dufur gave her a reassuring smile before moving to the doors and locking them tightly. Dufun went behind his desk and moved aside a large tapestry. He pressed several stones in a complex order and the wall opened up with a dull scraping sound. A staircase craved into the cavern was revealed, and the king took up a torch and lit it, starting down. Dufur gave his arm to Elwyn and followed. The wall closed behind them, and the only light was the red-orange flame from the torch bouncing off stone.

The group descended for what seemed an eternity, before coming to one of the elevators that littered the city. It was on a complicated pully system and was made like a cage. The three boarded and the creaking of chains filled the air. They reached the depths of the mountain before they exited the elevator, and the king lead them into a tunnel, at the end of which was a large, ornately carved door. The door had no handles and no obvious cracks or openings. The king handed the torch to Dufur, before taking a blade from his belt and slitting his hand open. He let the blood drip onto the stone, speaking reverently in Dwarfish. The door swung inward, parting in the middle seamlessly. The three entered, and Dufur used the torch he carried to light a well of kindling, the flames raced around the boarder of the room, bringing the whole chamber into light.

The cavernous chamber was surprisingly bare of ornamentation, unlike the rest of the architecture Elwyn had seen before. But in the center of the room was a massive dragon, deep sapphire blue in color and with scales glittering like gemstones. The creature lifted it's head, it's long neck raising it almost all the way to the ceiling. A voice that seemed to emanate from the mountain itself resonated around them.

Greetings, my children.

Dufun and Dufur bowed deeply, their beards brushing the stone floor. When they rose, Dufur took Elwyn and presented her gently to the beast.

"This is my wife, Great Sage, whom we spoke of. Elwyn Nissa of the Autumngrove." The dragon lowered it's head to inspect the woman, his large, bright eyes swirling like mist upon the mountains.

Hello, little forestling. It has been an age since I've seen one of your kind. I can smell the wind in your bones, it seems that you have tasted the sky, too. A smile seemed to curl upon his massive lips, revealing sharp teeth. You may come closer and touch, I can see the curiosity within you, child.

 

[BoneBrain]

Elwyn had been prepared for a great number of events and dilemmas in her life, however introductions with an honest to gods dragon was not one of those lessons. A small squeak of surprise exited her lips as the ornate doors cracked open to reveal the ocean blue dragon at its heart. Dufur's gentle grip anchored her to this earthly plane as he helped her approach the dragon. Her dark eyes were lit with wonder as the dragons deep voice filled her mind. The Autumngrove court had harbored it's own dragon, a glorious creator of life and knowledge. It's teachings were as old as life itself and long before Elwyn's making it had passed under the mountain. She'd ventured yearly along with her kin to pay respects at the gold and silver doors that held the remains of the dragon.

It seemed almost like a dream now, to be looking at such a beautiful creature, Elwyn felt her throat thicken with emotion as the Great Sage recognized the free flying bird within her. The Great Sage's head dipped and Elwyn felt his warm breath wash over her as he took her in. The dragon invited her closer and Elwyn recognized the great honour that had been bestowed upon her. With a quick glance at Dufur for his reassurance she moved forward.

"You are incredible." Elwyn breathed in her mother tongue making the deep blue dragon in front of her rumble in mirth. Elwyn was pleasantly surprised when the Great Sage answered back in an old tongue she recognized from old dust tomes that lay in the darkest corners of the Elven libraries.

Blessings upon you inquisitive one.

Elwyn reached the massive head of the dragon, and she gazed up in wonder as both silver eyes regarded her kindly. With a tentative hand she reached out and let the Great Sage meet her half way, his great snout pressing into her soft hands. His scales were smooth over the top and jagged as they reached their end. Curious fingers traced the shapes there as his hot breaths ruffled her feathers and hair.

"This is far more knowledge than my father ever anticipated." Deep respect for the hallowed creature had her next offer tumbling from her lips. "I need not share your existence Great Sage." She continued to speak in Elvish, there was a deep part of her that enjoyed the idea of this moment just being between her and the ancient god before her.

Nay child, hold fast to your agreement, but know your devotion does not go unseen.

 

[Rainelle]

The Dwarves stood back and let the Elf commune with the god. They seemed to be getting along quite well, speaking in elvish and she even touched the beast. Dufur could not suppress his grin at the sight. She would be a magnificent queen indeed. The pair spoke for a long time--the sage regaling Elwyn with stories of her own creator in his youth. Though, when she asked questions of her new kinsmen, he spoke not. Saying only that she must learn from them.

He lifted his head from her grasp carefully, and moved his long neck away, looking down his own body for something. After several moments, he leaned back and pulled off one of his own magnificent scales between his teeth. He looked to her again, and gently lowered the scale down to her feet. It was easily the size of her torso, and gleamed like a gem in the firelight.

Have your husband make armor for you, child. Gently, the sage pressed his large nose to her for a brief moment. You are a precious one. I never thought to smell the scent of the forest again. You are welcome to return whenever you wish to speak with me. He raised his head and motioned towards the men by the door. I am tired, my children. Leave me to rest for now. The Dwarves bowed, Elwyn as well, and the two men had to carry the scale out together. Once they had returned to the king's office, they placed the scale down reverently before covering it with a heavy cloth.

Dufur settled on a chaise and motioned for his wife to sit beside him, while his father sat down heavily in his desk chair. The king stroked his beard and sighed heavily. Dufur let out a hearty laugh.

"Fear not, my Jewel. Father is grumpy because you were received better than he was." The king grumbled at that comment.

"I have never seen anyone so beloved by him in my 300 years. Truly, you gift us with so much more than we ever knew, dear Jewel." Dufun replied.

"There will be a courier outside your door tonight, precious one." Dufur said "What you saw and experienced can go only in that one letter, do you understand?" He covered her hands with his own, looking earnestly into her eyes. "I do not wish to be harsh with you, I hope you do not misunderstand." The king spoke into his communication stone and summoned some tea and luncheon for them.

 

[BoneBrain]

Elwyn wished the Great Sage pleasant dreams, a wide beaming smile seemed stuck to her face as they ventured out of the large room with her newest treasure. She would be honoured to wear the scales of her newest friend and felt safe in the knowledge of his protection. They sat in the kings office and Elwyn found it hard to keep still as she took her place next to her husband. At the kings grumble her smile faded only a touch, she bore no guilt of her interaction but found she wished a similar experience for the kind Dwarven king.

"I understand. I would do the same were I in your position." Elwyn said softly, her hands turning over to brush against her husbands touch. She smiled warmly at the two dwarves who seemed to regard her with a whole new sense of respect after their interaction. "I assure you the importance of what you are sharing with my people will not be misused. I do however see my father sending a letter in the future to seek audience. I can however dissuade him of such notions in my letter should you wish." The tea arrived and Elwyn stood to help pour from the giant crystal kettle into fine ceramic cups. She offered the king a steaming cup and then her husband. When finally she held her own she remained standing, her energy once again keeping her in motion.

They spoke in length about Elwyn's desires for the scale. She wished for something practical, that would allow for movement, she focused mainly on a torso piece and wondered if a helm could be fashioned from the rest. Dufur promised to take her measurements and create a cast when she visited his forge. When the tea was finished Elwyn bade the dwarves farewell, saying she wished to get started on the letter. Elwyn tucked away into her little window in her rooms and wrote carefully on a long scroll of parchment as she detailed this latest event to her father. She wrote well into the late evening, taking her supper alone to ensure she did not accidently share her news with anyone while she was still processing.

Finally when the letter was finished she sealed it with a mark that only her father was allowed to open and passed the sealed scroll to the courier who waited outside her rooms.

 

[Rainelle]

Dufur smiled after his wife as she left the room, all full of energy and light. He spoke with his father a while after about the scale, and other things. He retied for the night, passing the courier in the hall and giving him a firm handshake. Tomorrow he would, hopefully, delight his wife with a maginficant shared bedroom and the room he'd promised for her collection.
~

The courier donned his armor and collected his pony from the stalls of the outer city. The hefty parchment was tucked under his breastplate, and he patted it absently once more before departing. He would meet up with a carravan of some sort going to the Autumngrove at one of the next villages. The dwarf traveled out past the outercity, and had only been moving for about an hour before he stopped. There was an animal collapsed in the road, braying from pain.

"Poor creature." He muttered, swinging off his pony and taking his dagger out of the saddlebag. There was nothing to do now but put it out of it's misery. He approached the donkey, kneeling before it and placing a large hand upon it's neck. "Hush now, it'll be alright soon." He said softly. "Return to the earth, my friend. Rest well." He raised the dagger to swiftly end the beast, but it suddenly lurched up, kicking him in the forehead with one of it's hooves. The dwarf collapsed noiselessly. The donkey stood and shook itself, a figure melting out of the shadows coming forward and giving the animal a carrot. It munched happily on the treat, and the elf knelt down, picking the letter out of his armor. She retrieved the pony, and hauled his limp body ad back onto the steed and lead it off of the path into the woods.
~

Kyrie woke Elwyn late in the morning, dressing her in a flowing green gown and ushering her down to the dining hall with narry a word. Nalu greeted Elwyn as she entered, and the princess found the hall packed tight with noble ladies.

"The Jewel of Homborimm enters!" Nalu called out.

"May she bless us with her wisdom!" The crowd replied, giving curtsies and bows. As Elwyn was led to her seat for the breakfast, Miria, Preate and Gemna approached, all excitedly greeting her. Runa accompanied them, along with another lady she had yet to meet. Deep red hair the color of wine, and ruby tattoos shooting through her arms.

"This is a dear friend of mine, Princess Mother." Runa said, smiling "Garnetta Goldeaxe." The woman bowed deeply.

"It's an honor to meet you, princess mother. I am humbled by your beauty." Garnetta said.

 

[BoneBrain]

Elwyn was eager for more adventures and learning on this fine day. Her previous encounter with the Great Sage had a little skip in her step as she entered the dining hall. She blinked in surprise at the number of women who gathered there. They called their greeting and Elwyn plastered a bright smile to her face as she walked through the mass towards her table. Once she was seated a servant filled her goblet with some amber looking liquid while a number of familiar faces approached.

"It is a pleasure to meet you as well Garnetta. My my, it seems so many of you have gathered this day." Elwyn peered around the room and lifted the goblet up to her lips. A warm feeling settled in her stomach at the notion that all these women had gathered to see her. The pressure of their respect did not go unnoticed and Elwyn felt herself sit up straighter in her chair.

"A great number of us have come up with a lovely idea and we wish to petition you Princess Mother." Miria pipped up, her hands clutching eagerly at the folds of her gown.

"Oh, well this sounds like fun." Elwyn eagerly leaned forward to hear of the idea the Dwarven women brought forth.

"We thought in order to fully secure your place you might host a gathering of lovers." Garnetta said, mirth making her voice echo in the dining hall. Elwyn's brow furrowed as tried to understand what on earth that could possibly mean.

"What is a gathering of lovers? These feels like something an unwedded woman might attend." She chuckled trying to make light of her confusion.

 

[Rainelle]

Nalu's brow furrowed as the women talked, feeling unease creep up her spine. There wasn't much she could say now, as she was a commoner herself, so all she could do was watch. Garnetta flared out her hand fan and fanned herself as she laughed.

"A gathering of lovers is where eligible dwarves gather to be picked by the prince and his bride of the royal harem of course!" Miria cut in excitedly.

"Harems are only appointed when there is a single heir to the throne, so they can form strong ties to important noble houses and increase the children they produce. It's a very important tradition."

"Surely, you want the prince to succeed, yes?" Garnetta pressed. Gemna hushed them both with a waive of her hands.

"No need to pressure the Princess Mother. We're here to eat and be merry. She may think on your proposal later." The subject was dropped, and the rest of the afternoon was spent in idle pleasantries and Elwyn meeting the rest of the ladies of the court. Many of them seemed eager about the topic of the harem. When the meal was over, Nalu and Kyrie took Elwyn back to her chambers.

"Dearest Jewel, are you alright?" Nalu peered into her face, looking worried. "There's still about an hour until the prince comes to collect you, would you like some tea?"

 

[BoneBrain]

Elwyn felt all the colour drain from her face as the gathering was explained, most of the Dwarven women around them chattered eagerly about such a bold tradition. They tittered excitedly about the sorts of children that would come from such a strong bloodline and Elwyn wished desperately for the ground to swallow her whole. She was grateful for Gemna who put a stop to the world altering conversation she'd been a part of and did her best to focus on the rest of the day as she met with many new women. It was such a stark difference, Elwyn could not help but feel that the reverence and respect she'd thought she'd earned was merely a falsehood.

When she was given reprieve Elwyn took a moment in her private rooms to settle her hand on her twisted stomach and focus on her breathing. Share Dufur? Why on earth had she not been prepared for such a possibility. She had done her best to learn and read about as many Dwarven customs as she could but she was realizing she was woefully unprepared when it came to matters of the heart. Nalu peered around a doorframe, her bright red beard drooping with the frown she wore.

"Tea would be lovely Nalu, perhaps something with ginger." Elwyn thought to settle her poor nerves and stomach and gratefully slipped onto a couch as Nalu busied herself with the serving tray and the steaming pot of tea she brought up minutes after Elwyn's request.

"Dear Jewel, you look as if your latest creation has just melted in the fires of your forge." The dear women tutted in sympathy as she poured a generous amount of tea into a mug and handed it off to Elwyn. "Was it the discussions of the gathering of lovers?" The old woman prodded, and nodded sagely as Elwyn's eyes snapped up in alarm towards her.

"How did... Nervermind. Of course you know." Elwyn groaned setting the tea on the table and folding herself double as she hugged her arms tight to herself. "I suppose I was not quite ready for the news that my husband was not my own." She grumbled, her voice muffled by her current position. "My people do not speak freely of such... activities."

 

[Rainelle]

Nalu gave Elwyn a sympathetic look as she sat across from her and listened.

"I can understand why it would come as such a shock. I was quite surprised myself when I heard the noble ladies speaking of it." She stroked her beard in thought. "I pray you can forgive me for not extracting you sooner, dear jewel. I may hold a high position within the palace, but my caste remains the same. I fear I cannot speak my mind before so many nobles, much as I might wish to." She sighed. "Tis been an age since there was a gathering of lovers. I wonder what got them thinking of it..." Seeing Elwyn become stressed again "But never mind. You should rest before the prince comes."

The next hour passed in relative peace, and Dufur arrived to take Elwyn to his forge. Upon entering the room, he could see his wife's eyes looking at him with an anguished expression. Crossing the room quickly, he took her hands in his and knelt before her.

"Precious one, what ails you? Have I done something to earn your displeasure? Please, what can I do?" He peered up into her eyes with his own worried ones.

 

[BoneBrain]

Elwyn was grateful for the soothing tones from Nalu, her breathing evened and the tea did truly help. She reclined on the couch for a long while chatting comfortably with Nalu who expertly diverted her attention from the unique problem that had arisen. It was only when Dufur came to collect Elwyn that all thoughts returned. Her face paled and she had the sudden image of Garnetta intertwined with Dufur, locked in a moment of passion. Dufur seemed to pick up on her distress immediately and went to her. She couldn't help the small hiccup of distress as he gently took her hands into his. Would he be so attentive to the others?

"Oh I..." Words failed her as she struggled to admit the truth of the situation. "Well its rather difficult to explain..." Elwyn forced the breath out of her lungs and looked to Nalu for help.

"It was suggested that the both of you host a gathering of lovers" Nalu explained, the worry clear in the tension of her voice. "The Princess Mother was not prepared for such a suggestion." Elwyn nodded, her head bobbing with each of Nalu's words.

"I had not realized such an event might take place. Forgive me Dufur, I am afraid..." She trailed off, not certain how to put into words what exactly it was that scared her. Instead she forced a smile to her face and shook her head free of the cobwebs of anxiety. "I will grow used to these customs, for now I wish to see your forge. I am most eager to see you at work. I've been told in great detail of your masterwork." In truth many of the Dwarven women at the gathering had gushed over Dufur's skills in the forge, they had mooned over the image of his skin glowing with sweat near the fires as he raised his hammer over the bright glow of metal. She had to agree with the masses there, such a sight would certainly do funny things to her heart.

 

[Rainelle]

Dufur listened as the women spoke in tandem, and his brow crinkled at his wife's quick dismissal. Her feelings on the subject were obvious. Dufur simply gripped her hand tightly and looked earnestly into Elwyn's eyes.

"My precious jewel, stop. You must never lie to me." His face softened "Do you really think so little of your own husband?" She shook her head vehemently, and he gave her a gentle smile. "Your thoughts are written all over your delicate face, dear one. If you detest the idea so, we shall not have it. Didn't I promise to make your happiness my highest priority?" The look of relief that rolled over her face was instantaneous, though just as quickly replaced by one of guilt. She opened her mouth to speak and Dufur shook his head. "That is an old tradition, my jewel. It was used when our kingdom was in distress to ensure a ruler. We are prospering and at peace--and ignoring all that--I am blessed by the sage with a perfect wife. How could I ever ask for more? You are clever, kind and a peerless beauty. I need no other but you."

A bright red blush colored her fair skin, and Dufur laughed as he stood. He pulled her up and gave a grand smile as he escorted her from her rooms. Placing one hand over hers, which sat in the crook of his arm, Dufur smiled. "I have a gift for you before we see the forge. I hope you will be pleased, my love." At her start, he chuckled. "I did some research of my own, you know. I understand that it is a common name of affection among elves. If you prefer it, that is what I shall call you."

He lead her deeper into the mountain and into the official wing of royal quarters. Each king had his own rooms made to accommodate his own needs. They reached the rooms he had created, and he pushed the doors open. Inside was a clean and opulent room, beautiful carvings of elves, dwarves and dragons covering the walls. Many of the pillars had roots twining them, and moss lining the limbs of the plants. The first chamber held the bed--a massive size mattress with sheer curtains and silk sheets from Autumngrove. A comfortable sitting area around the fireplace, and a wall of bookshelves across from it. He led her to the adjoining bathroom and combined closet, with space for all her dresses. Lastly, he took her hand and led her to teh last chamber, which was a massive cavern, deep shelves carved into the walls from floor to ceiling. The shelves were all empty.

"Dear jewel, this is the room for your collections I promised. I hope that you like it. When you are ready, we can move into these chambers together. There's a small desk for you to do your writings in the main room as well. Of course, your original quarters are yours to keep, for whatever purpose you wish."

 

[BoneBrain]

The niggling anxiety that had come from the notion of the gathering remained. Elwyn did her best to school her features, however it was the warmth and kindness from Dufur that made her smile bloom into the real one. She had no doubt that the gathering would be brought up again by the women and she was not sure she could deny the women what she wanted. It was important to not only keep her husband happy, but also the multitudes of people who looked up to her. Truly her dedication to her duty meant her husband would not be her own. Elwyn let herself be swept away by Dufur, for now she was happy. She would treasure these moments with him so that she might have something warm to hold onto.

Elwyn was blushing madly by the time Dufur had used an Elven term of affection and she happily let herself be swept away by the Dwarf. Her hand remained in his as they walked through the halls. Servants and workers all paused to bow their heads in respect and the two of them acknowledged those who greeted them. When they arrived at the surprise Elwyn was taken away by the grandeur of the rooms her mouth opening wide in surprise when she was shown the large storage room.

"Dufur, this is..." She was at a lost for words. Elwyn's eager feet padded along the stone floor as she peered at shelving units artfully built, ready to store her treasures. She turned to him, her hair swishing around her face as she flashed a bright beam of a smile in his direction. "I wish to move here right away!" She chuckled as she ran back to her husband and bent, pressing a loud noisy kiss to his cheek. "For me... you did this for me? Thank you Dufur." Elwyn was practically vibrating with excitement as Dufur led her back to the grand carved writing desk.

"You will not mind enduring my collection?" Elwyn asked, suddenly nervous that she was too much. At Dufur's assurances she settled and tried out the seat at the desk for the first time. She could picture it already, as she spent long hours writing and cataloguing to her hearts content. "This is perfect." She told him, the smile truly well and stuck to her now. "May we arrange for my things to move here while I visit you at the forge?" She asked.