Title – Cruel Torment

Author: Linda Hoyland
Characters/Pairing: Aragorn, Faramir

Rating: G
Warnings: None
Book/Source: LOTR book-verse
Disclaimer - These characters all belong to the estate of J.R.R. Tolkien. This story was written for pleasure and not for financial gain.

Cruel Torment

This torment is far worse than fighting an army of Orcs: countless wordy speeches from worthy lords to listen to patiently; then the ambassadors bring gifts, each more hideous than the last. I endeavour to look pleased with cloaks made of peacock feathers and hideous gem encrusted trinkets.

The worst ordeal is yet to come: a twelve-course banquet of which I am expected to heartily partake while listening to minstrels loudly praising my worthy deeds. Would that that I could be out performing some!

Faramir smiles and whispers in my ear. ”Birthdays come but once a year, my lord!”

A/N .Written for the "Birthday" challenge on "Tolkien Weekly.