Star Bride (A Stars of Varda Short Story Collection)

A Winter Song

I am in the Musicians' Hall, watching the choir rehearse the Song of Loss Danna. One voice rises above the others, as silvery and light as mithril. It belongs to Hanneth. Her dark strawberry hair and impressive height make her prominent among the other singers, and although she shares her mother's fair features, in personality she could not be more different.

She gives me a spirited wave, earning a disgruntled look from Caewen nearby. I respond with a warm a smile.

The Musicians' Hall was my own idea and design, born from the hope it would signify a new beginning for the realm, a new age. A place where the kingdom could unite through the language of music. I carefully designed the airy, high-ceilinged building with both Sindar and Silvan cultures in mind. Situated just outside the village center, it has been a haven for everyone, for those skilled in music and for those who simply love listening.

I have often visited since its opening, even more after Hanneth volunteered her voice to the choir. No longer do the musicians act flustered when their Queen watches, for they are now accustomed to my presence. Although Thranduil has ever supported my project, he has given me full rein. I usually come on my own.

The song concludes with a flourish, and the group begins to disperse, gathering their heavy winter cloaks before braving the cold. Hanneth rushes over with a grin, her bright indigo, bell-sleeved gown making her stand out even more.

"Caewen was furious with me," she says. "But that is no surprise."

I watch as Caewen walks out the door with a noticeable frown, not bothering to speak with anyone. "She once captivated an audience before even opening her mouth, but now it is your voice the kingdom praises. I do hope you are not intentionally provoking her, Hanneth. You tend to be quite bold and--"

"Na lû e-govaned vîn, Hanni!" a raven-haired ellon with a lazy smile calls out, winking at her.

Hanneth rolls her eyes, ignoring his goodbye.

"Hanni?" I ask.

"I made the mistake of being friendly with him yesterday at the practice grounds. Now, he is under the impression that betrothal is imminent and believes he may...take liberties. He could have at least chosen a more agreeable name!"

I try to hide a smile. "Ah, iell nín, perhaps you should at least give one of them a fair chance?"

"'Twould only be wasted time. I would end up looking like I had sucked a lemon, like Caewen."

"You should not be so harsh on Lady Caewen." I put on my cloak. "Regardless, why do you adamantly believe such?"

Hanneth puts on her winter cloak as well, a lighter shade than the indigo of her dress. "I would forever be reminded I should have waited, waited for the one I have already set my heart on."

She pushes open the doors. The world outside is stark white, with snow weighing down the tree boughs and blanketing rooftops as if trying to bury us. Eryn Lasgalen has not seen such a heavy snowfall in at least a decade, and I can hear the gleeful shouts from children taking advantage of its presence. Though cleared from the pathway leading from the Musicians' Hall, the snow still nearly reaches our calves on both sides.

"Who have you set your heart on?" I have my suspicions, but I am curious if she will admit it willingly.

But she is not paying attention. Her hazel eyes are focused on a point in the distance. "Oh, he is beautiful."

I follow her gaze. With his tall stature and branched crown, and the sweeping cloak over his broad shoulders, he makes a striking silhouette in the snow. My stomach swoops as if I am in the first blushes of love again.