Valanya, the 6th day of Hrivë
Today Bar-en-Vanimar witnessed the Oathtaking of a lady named Anawiel. She is from Lindon, but is of the Laiquendi, and delights in the lore of all birds and beasts, as well as that of herbs and plants. I believe we may have passed each other in the library several times previously, though I did not recognize her then. She has recently arrived in Imladris, and has asked me to serve as her witness, which I was happy to do. It was a beautiful clear afternoon, and many were gathered for Anawiel's oathtaking. To my delight I saw Nuldafairë there, wearing the full uniform of the Arrow (which may have been slightly distracting, but I digress). Eliriael had brought bunches of flowers which she began passing around to everyone, to give to Anawiel after her Oath. It was a charming and sweet gesture, perfect for the occasion. After Anawiel had said the Oath, Lord Anglachelm presented her with a golden locket showing a swan alighting upon the sea.
" It seems this bird has found a safe haven at last to land. May she be a companion to you where you need one, since you have found a haven now in the end... like her," he said, as he gave Anawiel the pendant. "Welcome home."
We retired to the Hall of Fire as is custom, after the ceremony. I could hardly believe that I had been witness for another's Oathtaking, when it seems only yesterday that I took my own Oath to Vanimar. I think I may have surprised Nuldafairë at least; he seemed to be looking at me with fond amusement as I stood beside Anawiel. In the Hall of Fire, the upcoming Winter Ball was a topic of much discussion, specifically the matter of who was going with whom. I find it heartening that we can spare the time to feast and make merry with our loved ones even as we are gearing for war. For is it not the most obvious act of hope, in the face of the growing darkness? Nuldafairë drew me aside and formally asked to escort me to the ball. Of course I was delighted to accept. I wonder if he shall wear his uniform to the ball - he wears it much better than my brother does, and the silver-winged pauldrons which he wears as Captain of the Arrow are quite becoming with the armour as well.
I am sure I was grinning like a fool after Nuldafairë took his leave and I rejoined the others. I will certainly have to make a new dress for the ball. Eliriael mentioned that she was taking up her needlework again and making herself a new dress as well, and lady Himwen wanted to know if we could be of any help to her in choosing a colour for her dress. I do have a pattern in mind for mine, but I will require some assistance from Naneth and Tinwen with the more detailed work.
After a while, Tyulussë arrived, citing that work in the library had prevented him from attending Anawiel's Oathtaking. It was most amusing to watch him and Laurelindo prod each other uneasily when Eliriael asked them if they had found any ladies to escort to the ball. Laurelindo gave the excuse that he was a poor dancer, and did not wish such misfortune on any elleth to accompany him. Tyulussë was all smiles and charm, saying that he had not yet decided which elleth to escort.
Eliriael and I simply smiled at each other, and the talk turned to the subject of healing. Laurelindo invited Anawiel to join us in our research on spider venom, and I think she will have some valuable insights as her folk were always the most learned in the lore of herbs and nature. It was late this evening when I left the Hall of Fire, and I have not felt so light-hearted in a long time. There is so much happening recently that I have not had time to dwell on the peril that lies before us, but perhaps it is better that way.
