Guide to Elf Courting

The ceremony that binds us

As you may have noticed, elven courting doesn't have a lot of steps. Yet, the steps in elven courtship take a long time. So don't worry about that.

Also, I didn't write a story of two elves courting in this book because it is deemed disrespectful by the elves. 

Courting is special, it creates a bond between two elves. This is something private and shouldn't be left for everyone to read. I hope you will forgive me for that. Besides that there is enough information in this book for you to know how to surviv- handle, an elven courtship. 

And isn't there more surprise and excitement when you don't fully know what is going to happen next?

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After the one year of celebration, where we are not vulnerable. Mind you, we are always on our guard. Don't let the author of this book fool you. *Glares at Nathalie.*

After that one year the marriage ceremony is held. It once again takes place in one of the homes. 

The couple doesn't have their own homes yet. This is only allowed when after they are wed. Otherwise it is deemed disrespectful and the couple will be looked down on. This is to averted at all cost.

The consort and suitor won't see each other for three full weeks after the year has ended. During this time their parents will prepare them for marriage.

Dressed have to be picked, jewelry has to be chosen and the important conversations must be had...

Wait, you are not talking about that kind of conversation... right?

Both elves will be informed about what to do during the consumation of their marriage. This is not talked about until it has a purpose. And why would you need to know before you get married?

Because you - *Sighs* Never mind.

Besides this important talk there also has to be a conversation about what marriage is about. Both elves need to know what is expected of them.

Females are supposed to have their husband' back at all times. This includes but is not limited to; not disagreeing with them in public, supporting their husband at every point in his life and making sure that he is looked after.

Males are supposed to look after their wives. They need to protect them, provide for them and make sure that they are happy. If a woman at any point regrets getting married to her spouse, she has the right to leave.

*Mutters:* at least there is that.

During the ceremony, which is lead by the king, the betrothal rings are returned and replaced by new ones. They are to be worn on the index finger of the right hand. 

This happens after both families have welcomed their new daughter or son into their family. 

The woman's parents do this by giving the groom jewelry that belongs to their house.

And the man's parents do this by composing a song for the bride. 

Family stays behind to celebrate the new couple.

And the new family moves into their home, celebrating in their own way.

Marriage consumation is important. That is why one of the kings guards will come with the couple. He will wait downstairs and listen for the known sounds to erupt a-

Wait, wait, wait. Hold on. He has to listen to the couple having... intercourse?

Yes, that way the kingdom will know that it is love that binds the two. Other reasons can safely be disregarded by this. Otherwise some may have their doubts even after the marriage ceremony is completed.

*Throws hands in the air and leaves* I give up on this race.

As soon as the guard can hear the right sounds, he leaves and joins the celebration. 

From that moment on the couple is truly bound and lives forever more.

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Even though my co-story teller has left I still want to thank you for reading this book. 

It was a most amusing experience for me. And a rather tiring one for Nathalie, it seems. 

I just don't understand you people sometimes... 

Ah, you have returned. I was just doing the outro of this book. 

Yeah, I could hear that. I honestly don't have a lot more to say at this point. I already said most of it at the beginning of this chapter.

*Confused look* I haven't read that. Did you write that on the other page? *Tries to take the book back from me*

Sadly, Elrond doesn't have anything else to say. So it is up to me now.

I know that this book isn't as big as the other courting books but at least it is here. And also I have already partially explained why up here. So...

Thank you for reading!

For now it looks like this is the last "Guide to ...... courting" book... But maybe you want to learn some more about another race?

If there are enough people who want the same courting rituals of a certain race explored, I might do it.

For now I wish you all the best and I hope you are having a great day.

I will see you in another book!