Backdated to this afternoon

[inafadingcrown]

[Upon receiving Ashura’s invitation to a little wine tasting in the gardens, Galadriel had, of course, agreed. Like most elves, she is fond of wine and even more so of good company. Besides which, she could use a bit of a distraction; tensions being what they are at the moment, she’s been a little preoccupied. And having two allies leave in one

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[wishmadeinfire]

[Ashura had been wanting to talk to someone, so why not Galadriel? He liked the elf, and it was nice to talk to someone that, for once, was older than him. He enjoyed her conversation and her company, and well, he had been remiss in speaking to his friends of late. He needed to be mindful of that.

He sat on one of the benches beneath a flowering tree in the gardens, watching his Flareon, Agni, chase crickets and other bugs amongst the flowers. His smile was soft, like a parent watching their child at play. When she spoke he turned to her and rose, arm open in greeting.]

Galadriel. I am so glad you could come.

[inafadingcrown]

And I am glad of the invitation. Thank you. [A pause as she admires the tree and casts an amused glance at Agni.] You have chosen a beautiful place for this meeting.

[wishmadeinfire]

Well, it is the height of the season. I saw no reason we might not enjoy it together.

[He motions to a glass of wine and a bottle beside where he had been sitting on the bench.]

Care for a drink?

[inafadingcrown]

Of course. [She'll just take a moment to seat herself on that bench.] It is all too easy, given recent events, to forget to enjoy such things while we may.

[wishmadeinfire]

[He nodded, but did not let those words ruin the mood as he poured her a rich red liquid and placed it in her hands.]

I hope recent events have not set you in to much of a mood.

[inafadingcrown]

It is no more than I am accustomed to. [Which probably doesn't sound as reassuring as she means it to.] I am troubled, yes, and concerned, but I am doing all that I am able.

[wishmadeinfire]

Well, that is what counts, yes?

[He sips his wine.]

If you need to talk about, my friend...

[inafadingcrown]

[She also sips at the wine. When she speaks again her eyes seem focused on the liquid, almost like she's expecting to see something there.]

It is nothing that most here have not felt, I am sure. I grow frustrated, for, though I will aid the people here as well I may, my duties lie elsewhere. I am the last of my world to remain and it vexes me to think of the others returned into dangers through which I cannot help them. These battles amongst ourselves are naught more than squabbles between prisoners- a waste of time and energy better directed at our captor. I would they were not necessary.

[She sighs, looks up, and the smile returns to her face as quickly as it left.]

But that is a problem for which there is no remedy, I fear, and I would not spoil the afternoon by dwelling on such things.

[wishmadeinfire]

[He reaches out, taking her hand and squeezing it gently.]

I feel the same, though perhaps mine own time has been made easier here because none of mine own people have come and gone.

But yes, perhaps we should talk of brighter things instead.

[inafadingcrown]

[Ah. she blinks a little at the unexpected gesture before settling into a fond smile. Not many would offer her comfort in that manner; she tends to inspire as much distance as admiration. It's refreshing, in a way.]

I thank you for your kindness. [She takes her hand back and sets it in her lap.] You will forgive me, I hope, for telling you of my woes before asking after your welfare. How have you fared as of late?

[wishmadeinfire]

I insisted you do so, so what need is there for you to ask for forgiveness, my friend?

[Such formal language, and yet between them it was warm, friendly.]

I have been doing very well. Felix and I have been growing closer and it has brought me much joy.

[inafadingcrown]

As well it should. You are both more than deserving of such happiness. [It may not show often, but, at heart, she's a romantic.]

[wishmadeinfire]

[His cheeks brushed a soft pink, his eyes shinning with inner warmth.]

It has been a long time since I have felt so happy.

[inafadingcrown]

[That is really very sweet. She raises her glass slightly, offering a sort of informal toast.]

May your joy increase with the passing of each day.

[wishmadeinfire]

Thank you, Galadriel. And may yours do the same, even in ways unexpected.

[He clinks their glasses together and sips.]

[inafadingcrown]

[And she will do the same and then chuckle a bit.]

"Unexpected" is an apt descriptor for this experience as a whole. I am not easily surprised, as well you may guess, and yet even I could not have foreseen this place.