Parnard

The Teler, Talkale, was never among my most favourite people. He was unquestionably learned, but his manner lacked much that I wondered at Lord Elrond still keeping him in his employ? This habit of his of not referring to Estarfin, Parnard or I by our appointed titles irked me that, had the matter of my searching for relevant papers not been so urgent, I would have taken down that walking bookcase on the spot. With words I hasten to add. 

From: Speaking with Ruineth. Part 1.

“It is a glorious evening to see my two dearest friends plight their troth, “ Parnard said, grinning as if his heart would burst with happiness. 

“It is a blessed night. Thank you for being here, Parnard…and you, Erestor” 

We waited for the stars to show, a sign that Tintalle was watching, was approving of us. We believed that she did. Though beautiful in itself, Anor seemed to take an extraordinarily long period to sink below the western horizon that eve. Then there were clouds, blue-grey with hints of gold, lazily passing overhead. All three of us scanned the sky, and were rewarded with an occasional glimpse of a few stars in the passing cloud gaps. 

"Perhaps one day we will only have starlight again?" Estarfin said. 

Wanting to be near the stars, and Tintalle, we chose the Haven of Orladion to make our declarations. Already we were of one mind and heart, but it was our way to speak out our intent, and to exchange rings. With no remaining family between us, the Starkindler was our witness, and he who had become as family...Parnard. 

"Dusk departs," I observed.

Estarfin was watching the setting sun. He turned to face me. He smiled. "It has been a long road, but we are finally here," he said.