Great thanks to Rohanyoshi, my beta-reader, and Lindahoyland, who has encouraged me to translate this story. Both of them patiently explain me the subtleties of their native language.
If mistakes remain, it's because of my carelessness, not theirs!
Chapter 1
Aragorn stood up with a sigh. He had just spent the morning with Faramir, poring over many letters that arrived every morning; a rather tedious task, but luckily alleviated by the Steward's help, who took charge himself of everything that did not necessarily demanded that the King read and sign it. The young man ; a quill in his hand, was finalizing the last letter of the morning.
Stretching his back, Aragorn walked to the window, letting the sunlight warm his face. These hours of work seemed a pleasant recreation compared with what would happen after lunch: the weekly Council. Since his coronation, Aragorn often harshly struggled the five Councillors, heard so little under Denethor's stewardship they were now doing anything to influence the King to further their own interests.
He was reluctant to simply remove them from office and replace them with men he knew to be faithful and devoted to Gondor, for he feared that he would be thought a tyrant then. However, he was sure that the decision would be gladly accepted by his steward: once, deeply pained by the attitude of Councillors, Faramir had even opposed them during a meeting, when they dared to question royal authority. The ardor of the young man had comforted Aragorn: he was not alone, and could count on a valuable support.
"Does it please you to break the fast outside, my lord? » asked Faramir, who had just got get up and to entrusted a bundle of scrolls a servant.
« I thank you for this good idea, 'said Aragorn, smiling. We had better get some air before returning to those great solemn rooms. "
They took their meal together, as usual. Servants moved a table and chairs on the terrace of Aragorn's office, and laid the dishes before quietly going away. The Steward had long asked for the honor of serving the King while he ate, but Aragorn had always refused, not accustomed to be served; then they sat opposite each other, helping themselves.
Eager to lighten his spirits, Aragorn asked Faramir about horse breeding in the city. He knew his Steward loved horses as much as him, and he was very interested in the revival of farms in Gondor, since the herds could graze again in peace in the plains.
Faramir replied graciously, visibly happy, too, to speak about a more pleasant topic than administration. However, as usual, he remained reserved, almost timid, while his eyes rested with respect and love on his king. Aragorn liked his loyalty and dedication, but he longed for an intimate; and he hoped that, as over the years, Faramir's reserve would decrease, and he would dare to behave towards the King as a friend.
When the bells of the city rang the first hour after the sun's zenith, Aragorn felt almost exhilarated.
"Come", he said with a sardonic smile. "Let us prepare for a joyful meeting …"
« There are few topics to discuss today, my lord", Faramir replied. "The Council will soon be completed. "
Aragorn smiled. He would have preferred a pat on the shoulder, as the Rangers' habit, but these words of encouragement, and the confidence that Faramir would be at his side to assist him at the Council, strengthened him.