His wife's doings had long ceased to astonish him, but Celeborn did not speak until her elegant figure, straight and commanding as a mallorn, vanished through the door. "She is very concerned with presentation," he said carefully. "It is a Noldorin obsession."

Aragorn cast a critical eye on the fine embroidered sleeves, his broad shoulders moving restlessly beneath the silvery cloth. "I prefer a plainer look."

"Humor her. It matters little; my granddaughter will have eyes only for the man beneath the cloak, be it kingly or tattered."

And he smiled at the mingled hope and surprise in Aragorn's eyes.