I smiled ruefully to myself, knowing I had already experienced a far greater and deeper union with this man than that which propriety was so busy guarding against. I had seen and accepted our fate here, tonight, on the crest of this ancient hill, and all other ceremonies would be just that: rituals to please the people and make public the commitment that had been made in the privacy of my own heart.

Summary

The quote highlights the narrator's realization that their connection with the man in question goes beyond societal expectations and formalities. They acknowledge that their bond has already been solidified privately, with a deep understanding and acceptance of their fate. Any additional ceremonies or public commitments would merely be gestures to conform to societal norms and appease others, as the true commitment has already been made within themselves. The quote suggests that the narrator finds significance in the intimate and personal connection they share, rather than the external validation from society.

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