A short while later, the group passes through the Rammas Echor. Then it takes them about an hour to actually approach the great gate. As they approach the gate, Faramir sees and hears the gate opening. Behind the gate, he can see the hustle of people moving about. There are but a few people about based on what he can hear. This is not really surprising for him as it is still early in the morning.

When Faramir looks at the wall, he sees that the market is being erected. The merchants are all busily walking around to ready their stand for today's market. Faramir knows that they want to sell as much as they can. To do that they need to have their stand fully prepared once the market starts. This also tells Faramir that they have plenty of time to spare to reach the citadel and prepare themselves for today court. It reminds him that he needs to inform them about the fact that he wants them to attend court today. Something which they will appreciate Faramir imagines.

Once they enter the city, Faramir looks once more at Denethor. He tries to determine if it is the right time to inform them but decides against it based on Denethor's expression. Denethor has a neutral expression on his face. But the small frown and squishing of Denethor's eyes tell him that the neutral expression is not all there is. This way of looking, Faramir remembers quite clearly. He has seen it often in the past. Thus Faramir knows that it means that a lot goes through Denethor's mind and that the expression is Denethor's way of trying to hide his thoughts. Denethor also intends to keep others away from him with this expression. Away so long as it takes him to work that out which is bothering him. Unfortunately for Denethor, this plan backfires because Faramir knows him so well that he sees right through it.

When he looks at Finduilas, Faramir sees that she has also seen it just as Éowyn has. She smiles at him calmly. It is her way of telling him to let things be for the time being.

As for the things Denethor is thinking about, Faramir knows that Denethor is looking carefully at the changes in the city. He does this to try and work out how things stand right now and what kind of king sits on the throne. The state of the city, the way the people move around and how the people are dressed always tell you what kind of ruler there is. Faramir knows that Denethor will see the most changes in the lower levels of the city. They had to be rebuilt after the war as they were almost completely destroyed. As such the changes will be there. Also, the trees in the city will be more than he remembers. This will hopefully tell him that a kind and just king currently rules.

Just when Faramir wants to address Denethor they arrive at the sixth level. As such Faramir decides to refrain from addressing Denethor for a while. There are too many gossipers on this level at any given time of the day. As he wants to keep the knowledge of his guests' identity a need to know information he cannot make any mention of it here. Also, he does not want to have Aragorn learn about their presence through gossip. That is how he justifies his current silence.

A few minutes later, the group reaches the stables and they are approached by stable hands. This is the sign for everyone to stop and dismount. Everyone quickly does so and the stable hands then take horses into the stable.

Afterward, everyone starts walking to the citadel. It was decided during the travel that they will let their packs be brought to their room by the citadel servants. Faramir's esquire stayed behind to ensure that the packs of Denethor and his family will be delivered to their room. As for the packs of his entourage, Faramir is certain that they will be delivered to the correct room. This process will not be strange for Denethor and Finduilas because it has been done this way since the time of Faramir's grandfather. They will have gone through it when they left Minas Tirith in their own time. Of that Faramir is certain.

"Your Highness, where are your guards? I did not see them following us into the city."

This makes Faramir turn to look at Boromir for Boromir asked this question. He sees that Boromir is looking questionable at him with a confused look in his eyes. Boromir's question serves to remind him about the fact that since entering the city they were no longer accompanied by his guards from the white company. Citadel guards will have taken over their duty until reaching the sixth level. Faramir has become so used to this that he no longer notices it. The same goes for Éowyn. As for his children, for them, it is quite normal that the white company does not accompany them into the city. It is good to know that others have noticed it. This is why he decides to give Boromir an answer which he will understand.

"My guards do not enter the city if it is not required of them. They do this out of solidarity with their captain. He is not allowed entry into the city because of what he has done in the past."

"That is nice of the guards. But what did your captain do that he is no longer allowed to be in Minas Tirith?"

"That is something which you have to ask captain Beregond himself, Boromir. I cannot tell you that in good consciousness. I would violate his trust in doing so."

"Did he do something really bad or did he do something bad that was not so severe?"

"Boromir, I do not think that he did something really bad for else he would not have been allowed to be the captain of the prince's guard. Do not bother the prince again with your questions."

"Yes, nana."

Faramir smiles thankfully at Finduilas for intervening. He appreciates it for he knows that Boromir would have been pestering him for the reason until Boromir got it or he got mad at Boromir. So now that Finduilas put a hold to it means that none of these options will ever happen. Boromir is understandably annoyed and disappointed. Faramir could hear both emotions in Boromir's voice. Also, Boromir's pouting served to reinforce the emotions in his voice. Faramir understands Boromir's emotions from his own childhood. Then he experienced the same thing as Boromir does now multiple times. And none of those times he liked to be told to not bother the person anymore. This for he did not believe he was bothering anyone.

A gasp makes Faramir looking up. He instinctively places a hand on his sword. What he sees makes him smile. In front of him, he can see the white tree at the top of the tunnel they are in now. It tells him that they have nearly arrived at the citadel. Based on the gasp, he expected to see a threat moving about and not this.

When he looks in the direction the sound came from he sees that it must have come from Denethor. Denethor is looking before him in a state of complete shock. Faramir worries that Denethor is going to collapse here on the ground. It would be an embarrassment Denethor would want to avoid at all cost. If it is possible to do so. This knowledge makes Faramir place a hand on Denethor's shoulder. It has a dual purpose for it serves to keep Denethor upright as well as encouraging him to continue walking. And not to stop waking and stare ahead.

"Let us continue and not linger here. You can work through everything you saw within your rooms."

As he says this Faramir pushed Denethor forward calmly. Denethor does not offer him any resistance for which Faramir is glad. He does receive a nod in answer to his words which he appreciates. Also, Faramir did not address Denethor by his name. It is the only way to keep their identity hidden as he intends to do.

It does not take them long afterward to fully enter the citadel. It looks the same as it has done in Denethor's time except for being busier. A large difference is that there is a living tree instead of a dead one. All this is noticed by his guest for Faramir sees them carefully inspecting the citadel. He sees this when he looks back to see if they are still following him to the steward's house. He did not hear footsteps as close by as he did before. Faramir knows that they do not want to miss anything that could have changed. As such he also knows for certain that there will mean a discussion once they are alone.

As for taking them to the steward's house, he does this for he managed to arrange rooms for them there. Also, keeping their identity secret that will be easier to do when they reside in the steward's house than when they will reside in one of the guesthouses. His own servants can be sworn to secrecy while those from the guest houses cannot be.

A short while later they have entered the house. As he looks at Denethor Faramir can see that Denethor recognizes the house they are in. Faramir instantly notices that there are questions visible in Denethor's eyes when he looks him in the eye. Faramir knows that he has no time to answer Denethor's questions at this time. He has other matters to attend to. One of those matters is that he needs to inform them about their possibility to attend court. Faramir hopes that they will agree to his offer. Well, he has little doubt about their agreement if he is honest. Denethor will not let such a chance disappear from his grasp. This way he will be able to see for himself what kind of king Aragorn is. Another matter is that Faramir needs to inform Aragorn about their arrival in this time. He would prefer to do this before the court starts. The reason for his is that this way they will have time to discuss what they will do. Also, Faramir is certain that Aragorn will want to meet them. That conversation, Faramir suspects, will be a tense one. He bases this on what he knows about their relationship.

Faramir looks back at Denethor. He sees that Denethor is looking impatiently at him. This tells him that he needs to inform them now about the reason why he lingers with them in the hallway.

"Denethor, I need to seek out the king soon to inform him about some matters. But before I leave I want to inform you that you and Finduilas can visit today's court if you like."

Faramir sees that Denethor and Finduilas share a few looks between them. As if they want to decide what they will do with the offer that was made. Or as of they want to discuss his reason for making this offer. He also sees that they make a few subtle gestures to each other. Based on the looks and gestures that are shared between them, Faramir comes to believe that they will accept his offer. Just as he expects them to do based on what he knows of his father. Of his mother, he does not know a lot as she died when he was still young.

"We would like to visit today's court, Your Highness. I personally would like to see how the king handles the court."

"Of course. I will ensure that on a few hours someone will guide you to one of the private sitting areas. As I am sure you know, it will be easier and faster to get past the guards if you have an escort. Also, it will allow you to observe the court while no one will be able to see you. I will instruct one of my own servants to personally provide you with drinks and refreshments during the break."

"That is certainly true, Your Highness. With an escort, one can bypass the guards easily. Especially when the escort is sufficiently respected by the guards on duty."

"That is right. The escort I had in mind is still young but highly respected and loved by the citadel guards. They have known him since he was a baby. As such I am certain that he can get you easily passed the guards."

"That is reassuring to hear, Your Highness. I do want to thank you for providing us with one of your own servants so that we will have drinks and refreshments during the court. As our identity needs to be kept hidden it is the only way for us to receive it. The servants of the citadel cannot do what your own servants will do."

"That is right, Lady, but you do not need to thank me for it. If we do not need to discuss anything anymore then I will leave to inform the king. My chief maid will guide you to your room."

With this, he points to his chief maid who stands a bit behind him to left. When Denethor nods, Faramir returns it, leaves and makes his way to the King's house. It takes him but a few minutes to reach his destination. There he only needs to determine where he can Aragorn. That he accomplishes by approaching the first servants he sees.

"Could you tell me where the king currently is?"

"I believe his majesty is in his study right now, Your Highness. But I am not certain of that for I have not seen since last evening."

Faramir sees the frown on the servant's face which confirms her words to him. She most likely makes this assumption based on past experiences.

"Thank you for your information. I will go check to see if your assumption is right. If not then I will check the other rooms to see if the king is there."

"Of course, Your Highness. As you have no need for me anymore, I will continue with the work I was doing before you interrupted me."

Faramir smiles innocently at her when he receives the irritated response. She only does this as she has worked for years as his nurse and as such is quite used to dealing with him. She knows what works best with him and what doesn't. Faramir is pulled from his thoughts when he feels her padding his cheek. She does this a few times while wearing a kind smile on her face.

"Do not let your mind wander so far again, Your Highness. Keep it in the here and now."

With that, she leaves him to continue with her duties. Faramir knows that whatever she is doing concerns Eldarion for she works as his nurse. He recommended her when Aragorn told him that he was looking for a nurse. This recommendation he made based on his own experiences with her. He remembers her as a just and kind. When he made mistakes when he was young she always had him it right again. He found that annoying when he was young but now he is grateful for it. The same thing he does with his own children when they make mistakes. As for Aragorn, he seems pleased with her for he never complained to him.

Shaking his head to clear his thoughts, Faramir walks to Aragorn's study. Along the way he sees servants hurrying by. They are all in a hurry to prepare everything for the king's trip. At least that is the impression Faramir gets based on what he sees them carrying.

Once he reaches the study Faramir knocks a few times on the door. This way he will know if someone is in the study. As such he knows that he will learn if Aragorn is in his study. Faramir knows that it would be a breach of protocol where he to simply walk into the king's study without asking for permission to enter.

"Enter!"

Faramir smiles for he recognized the voice that called him. It is the king's voice that he heard coming from the other side of the door. It just shows how well his former nurse is able to uncover people's' habits and is able to predict their actions. It is especially helpful when dealing with children.

Faramir clears the smile from his face and takes on a neutral expression. Only then does he open the door and step into the study. Once inside the study, he sees that Aragorn sits at his desk. From what he can see it appears as if Aragorn is working on his correspondence.

Faramir walks to the desk and waits there for Aragorn to address him. It does not take long before Aragorn looks up. That is when he is done with his current correspondence. When Aragorn looks up Faramir can see that Aragorn is confused by his presence. The confusion is understandable for they had agreed to meet later.

"Faramir, what are you doing here? Is there something you need to discuss with me before the court begins?"

"Yes, Aragorn, there is something which we need to discuss before the court begins. It cannot wait for we will be busy preparing for the meeting with the Kahn afterward and thus will not be able to discuss them."

"Now I am intrigued, Faramir. What is so important that we need to discuss right now? Can it not wait until tomorrow? We will have everything prepared then for the meeting with the Kahn and thus will be to give it our full attention."

Faramir can see that he has managed to interest Aragorn into the matter they need to discuss. It makes him smile because answering questions as he did always ensures that Aragorn will become highly interested in the intended topic of conversation. This only shows when Aragorn is alone with close friends. If not then the topic is discussed later in private. As for Aragorn's questions, they are a way for Aragorn to test the importance of discussing the topic right now. It shows that Aragorn would prefer to leave discussing it to a later time. Unfortunately, Faramir is certain that it cannot wait and that Aragorn will understand it once he knows what it is about. Also, based on the answers Aragorn will get, he will know how important discussing the topic is for the person who asked him to discuss it. That is why he shakes his head.

"No, Aragorn, it cannot wait. You will understand why once I have explained everything."

"In that case, please explain to me what we need to discuss. I want to understand why you believe that I would want it discussed now rather than later when we have more time."

"Alright, then I better start my explanation."

Faramir smiles and receives one in return before he starts with his explanation.

"A few days ago, I went check up on the patrols. I wanted to know how safe Ithilien would be once I would travel with my family here. It was then that I made a surprising discovery. A young boy managed to get separated from his parents. His parents had gone for a riding trio and gotten lost. When we later reunited him with his family after a short search I was in for a surprise. The family I saw before me should be dead. Only I am certain that I saw them alive. It shocked me for I thought I was seeing things. Only to learn that I did not."

Faramir hears himself laugh a bit. It worries him when he sees the frown on Aragorn's face. As well as the worry he can see in Aragorn's eyes. It tells him that Aragorn is worried about his health. Considering his reaction it is totally understandable.

"Faramir, do you feel alright?"

Aragorn interrupts his thoughts by speaking up. Aragorn's words confirm the worry he recently noticed. At the same time as Aragorn speaks up, he stands up and walks towards him. Once Aragorn reached him he places a hand on Faramir's brow as well as grasping his wrist. This Faramir feels and as such he knows that with these actions Aragorn is checking his health. Especially by checking his temperature and heartbeat. It all adds to his belief that Aragorn is worried that something is wrong with his health. Aragorn is most likely worried that he is disillusioned and tries to determine this by checking his physical health. All this is not surprising considering the story he just told.

"Mhhh, you have no fever only a slightly increased heartbeat. Do you feel alright? I could excuse you from court if you need to rest."

"I feel fine, Aragorn. I do not need rest. I am more than capable of attending court."

The frown grows larger on Aragorn face. It tells him that Aragorn does not believe he is fine. He only became more worried. His reaction was not the best which tells him that Aragorn's reaction is completely understandable. Now he only needs to find a way to assure Aragorn that he is really fine. He needs to do it in such a way that Aragorn will believe him.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, Aragorn. I am sure. I was not the only one to see them. My family, servants, and guards have also seen them. Mind you, when traveling the family always cloaked their faces so that they will not be recognized. I requested it of them so that there will be no rumors build around their presence here. With it comes that the things they said as well as their reactions to things I said were authentic. It all made me believe that they traveled to time. How that is possible I do not know."

Hopefully, this will convince Aragorn that he is fine as well as redirecting their conversation to the reason he came for. He wants to see if he can get Aragorn to agree to meet them after the court is finished.

"Mhhh. That is strange. If you had imagined them then they would not have seen them. Has anyone in the city seen them?"

"Yes, my chief maid has seen their faces. Also, there will be people in the city who saw them with their cloaks up."

"Then I can ask her later if I have a need for it. But before I would like to know one more thing. You believe that if they are recognized by people who know them that there will be rumors?"

"Yes, I do believe so. You would recognize them the minute you see them. Of that I am certain."

These questions give Faramir hope that he will be believed. Or at least that Aragorn is considering that his story might be truthful. When he looks back at Aragorn, Faramir can see that Aragorn is deep in his thoughts. Most likely to consider everything he just learned. He just hopes that Aragorn will come to the conclusion that he told him the truth.

"Will they be present during court? I could meet with them afterward."

Faramir smiles because he already asked them to attend court and because he wanted Aragorn to meet them. It shows also that Aragorn wants to determine if his words are the truth. It does mean that he is not yet fully believed but Faramir is certain that in time he will be.

"What is so funny, Faramir?"

"Nothing, Aragorn. We just think so alike to each other. Before coming to you I asked them to attend court which they accepted. I also intended to ask you to meet them once court has been finished."

"Then we do indeed think alike."

Aragorn smiles when he says this which puts Faramir at ease. He is now certain that his story is being believed. There is now only one thing left for them to discuss.

"We need to discuss one more thing, Aragorn. How will the family return to their own time? This needs to be done if we do not want our timeline to be more changed than it will be."

"You have a point there, Faramir. The longer they stay here the more this timeline might be changed or will be in danger of disappearing. Which of the two is more likely will depend on which family traveled through time. A concept I can barely get my head around."

Then Aragorn stops talking. Faramir can tell that he is thinking about something. He suspects that Aragorn is thinking about how they will return the family to their own time.

"I do not know how we will return the family to their own. There is nothing I can think off at this time that might work. It is just too bad that Mithrandir is gone. We could have used his knowledge to determine the best way to return them to their own time."

"That is true. Mithrandir could have helped us. But I am certain that we can determine it on our own. We just need time to determine possible solutions. I do know that it will take time."

"That is true. We need to be patient because that way a solution will present itself."

Faramir sees that Aragorn then turns to look out of the window. As he follows his lord's gaze, he sees that they need to prepare themselves soon for the upcoming court.

"Well then. I do believe that we need to prepare for court now or we will be late.

Faramir nods in answer before they both stand up. He knows that Aragorn knows as well as he does that not many people will notice it if they are late. Nor will there be many people insulted for the same reason. The exact time when today's court will start is only known by a few people. As such they are not required to hurry. Still, they do not like being late so they will hurry to be ready on time or a short while later.

Soon both men are walking back to their room where they will dress in the ceremonial robes required for the court. As well as picking up the regalia they are required to have with them. In hand or wearing.

Meanwhile, Denethor and Finduilas are sitting in their new room. They have already refreshed themselves and dressed in a formal robe and dress. As such they are ready to attend court. They only need to wait for their escort to show up and escort them to their sitting area. Finduilas is grateful towards the prince for lending them the robe and dress they wear for they had none with them.

Now that they are waiting for their escort, Denethor is thinking about the room they got assigned. He knows this room really well as he has housed guests here in the past. Important and high ranking guests of the steward that is for that is the group for which this room has been furnished. The room is large and luxurious and located in the guest wing of the steward's house. It has a large four poster bed and a few nightstands standing against the front wall when seen from the doorway. To the right of the bed a closet stands. Denethor is certain that the servants will have put their clothes inside it before they retire tonight. On the left side of the bed stands a dressing table where Finduilas can ready herself in the mornings. A dresser stands next to the table. All the furniture is handcrafted and expensive.

All things considering, Denethor is pleased with this room. It shows how important they to the prince. Even though the prince has not redecorated the room. Which is not really surprising considering the fact that this kind of room is furnished according to protocol. What the prince has changed are the wall hangings as well as the paintings on the wall.

When Denethor looks at his wife he sees that she is also looking at him. She is looking at him with a questionable expression while wearing a frown. He wonders what is on her mind that she looks at him like this. What does she want to know? What is she worried about that she frowns? Or is she confused by or about something? All these questions come to his mind when seeing Finduilas expression. It tells him that he needs to figure out what is going on in her mind.

"Finduilas, what is troubling you?"

"Nothing is troubling me. I am simply wondering what we can expect from court today."

Denethor smiles because it is something which he was also wondering about. He knows the protocols that need to be followed during a court session. With those, there is not a lot of room to deviate from them. Still, the room that there is will allow the king to place his personal touch on the session. Denethor has always stuck to the protocol as it gave him a sense of security. That way he knew he would do everything as it is supposed to be done. But as for what the king will do, he has no idea. It will all depend on the personality of the king how much use he will make of the room to deviate. As such he decides to tell Finduilas.

"I do not think that there will be many changes with how I have always held court. You know that the protocol is very tight. The changes that there might be will be small and will depend on the personality of the king."

"Your right about that. But what I was actually wondering about were the cases that might be discussed today. What kind of requests will be made? As well as who will all be in attendance?"

"That is something which I cannot answer you. The cases and requests all depend on what demand there is. As for the attendees, that will depend on who is currently in the city. But what I do know is that the attendees will also tell us something about what kind of a man the king is and with what kind of men he surrounds himself."

"You are right, you can tell a lot about a man or woman by looking at the people they surround themselves with. But from what I saw of the prince, I am certain that the king will surround himself primarily with lords who care for their people. It would mean that the king himself cares for the people."

"That is true. The prince gives that impression. But let us wait with making a decision until we have seen the other lords as well as the king himself."

"Of course, meleth."

Denethor shares a smile with Finduilas before hugging her tightly. They both enjoy this for it tells them that they are fine and together. As well as that they can depend on each other with what is yet to come. It has been a long time since they could hug each other for their duties prevented them from spending time together. As well as the fact that they have an image to uphold in public. But now that they are free to show their affection for each other. As such they make the most of it while they can.

"Denethor, we should see if our escort is here otherwise we will be late for court. More importantly, we might be seen by the people."

These words, as well as Finduilas pushing against his chest, make Denethor release their hug. He knows that what Finduilas just said is true. That is why he reluctantly let go of their hug while he would have wanted for it to continue a while longer. He knows that if their escort does not show up soon then people will surely see them when they are being guided to their viewing area. It will mean that the prince's plan will fail. Just when he wants to stand up and check the hallways for their escort, a knock on the door draws their attention. He shares a look with Finduilas before he allows the person who knocked to enter the room.

"Enter."

Seconds later, a young boy walks into the room. He appears to in his early twenties and garbed of the prince's guard minus the armor. Denethor gets the impression that the boy is either nearly or just an adult. He is most likely an apprentice or esquire for the prince's guards.

"My lo... master, mistress, my name is Bergil. My prince Fara... my prince requested me to be your escort for today's court. If you would follow me then I will guide you to where you can observe court. Your sons will be in the care of my prince's nurses."

Denethor is not fooled by the way the boy, who he now knows is called Bergil, tries to cover up his lapses. He did hear what Bergil tried to call him. It gives him the impression that Bergil knows their names. As such Bergil must have known him personally or someone close to him. Else he would not have tried to call him my lord with such a sense of habit. He also noticed that Bergil nearly told them the prince's name. A name which has been a mystery ever since they met the prince. He has tried to uncover it subtly by paying attention to what others call the prince as well as other ways to determine his name. So far he has been unsuccessful in his objective but now he has a point of reference. From there he can start with determining the prince's name.

"I would like to ask you to thank the prince for his generosity."

Finduilas voice pulls him from his thoughts and reminds him that they left Boromir with the prince's nurse. That she asked Bergil to thank the prince is normal for her. She always thanks people or has someone else do it when she is unable to do so.

"Of course, I will."

The smile Finduilas receives is one of reassurance. Well, now that she knows that the prince will be thanked Denethor decides that they should leave.

"Shall we go?"

"Yes, sir. Of course. Please follow me."

Denethor can tell that he startled Bergil by the way the boy looked at him and acted. Whether that is because of his sharp voice when he requested to leave or because of his posture Denethor does not know. One of them can be the reason as well as both of them. He risks a glance at Finduilas when Bergil opens the door. He sees that she is looking at him with a displeased look. He hopes that she has not noticed his looking for he would like to stay from her bad side. If she did then he will face a heavy reprimand. Also, it will not end well for him tonight in that case or even if she is still mad at him then. He will most likely be banished from her bed then and have to sleep on the couch or the floor. Something which he wants to avoid at all costs. As such he decides not to mention his observations nor to apologize. That way the risks will be the smallest.

Minutes later, they have left the steward's house and enter into the courtyard. Bergil stays where they are now and looks over the courtyard. Most likely to determine the fastest path to their destination while at the same time having the least risk of being seen.

Denethor decides during the wait that he will let Bergil guide them to their destination even though he knows the way by heart. The only thing he does not know is from which area they will observe the court. For that, he will have no choice but to let Bergil guide them. He hopes that they have been given a good place to observe so that he can see all there is to see. That way he will know what kind of king sits in the throne. If they get one of the areas with little visuality then it will not be possible. Also, he is certain that they will have to cover themselves in their cloaks much to his irritation. He would like to be able to walk around freely without the need to hide.

Once they have their cloaks up, Bergil seems to have determined the path they will take for he mentions for them to follow him. He guides them towards the tower of Ecthelion. Just as Denethor expected him to do. During the walk there, he keeps a close eye on his environment. All for the sake to learn what else has changed over the years. Unfortunately, he is unable to notice any more changes except those which he saw earlier. It gives him the impression that the king wants to keep things similar to how they have been.

Once they reach the tower they are guided toward the side of the tower. This makes it clear to Denethor that they will enter through a side door. But just when they are about to turn around a corner so that they are at the side of the tower, a voice stops them right in their tracks.

"Where do you three think that you are going?! Only lords and their families can enter the tower through there with their guards. Turn to the front doors immediately!"

Denethor is pleased by this response for it shows that the front door is still the main entrance for people wanting to enter the tower of Ecthelion. Also, it shows that the guards do their work well based on their reprimand. Bergil will now have to prove the steward's words and trust. As in being respected by the guards and being able to get them past the guards into the tower. Looking at the person who called them to stop Denethor sees that it is a man dressed as a captain. Bergil's words confirm his observations.

"Captain, I have been asked by our prince and steward to guide these people to a private sitting area and to remain with them. If you do not believe me then I ask you to question our steward. But right now, we will enter the tower. No need to be late while you check my story."

Denethor is impressed with the nerve Bergil shows. He has not imagined that Bergil is capable of it nor that he would have acted like this. He saw Bergil as a kind and polite young man and this finds this behavior strange. He also worries about the reaction of the captain for he foresees problems arising there. No one ever entered the tower in his time without the guards being sure that everything is in order. They would detain people for as long as it took them to confirm their story. At that time they would also be searched to see what they have with them. Any weapons or potentially dangerous objects they might have on them would be confiscated until after court. As he expects this to happen to them, Denethor is pleased that they did not take a lot with them. He only has a knife with him for self-defense and expects problems with being allowed to take it with him. At the same time, he also does not expect that he will have to use it. That does not mean that he is willing to surrender it. He wants it close so that he feels safe. Without weapons, he has never felt safe. Another problem is that he expects that they have to lower their cloaks so that the captain can see their faces. How Bergil will avoid that Denethor has no idea for it would a reasonable request. All this combined makes the captain's reaction all the more surprising.

"Yes, of course. I can understand that you do not want to late, Bergil. I will go check your story. In the meantime, you should go straight to the sitting area. Which sitting area did our prince tell you to take them to?"

"I was told to take them to the central south sitting area."

"Of course, once I check your story I will seek you out there to inform you about my decision. Do not go anywhere else than the sitting area."

Denethor can see the relief on the face of the captain once he is told about the sitting area they will use. It is a vast improvement to the questioning look from before. It tells him that the captain approves of the room just as he does. He knows the sitting area they will go to well for he used it in the past to have people watch court who might be in danger if they are seen publicly. He is pleased that the prince knows of it used as well as he does and is willing to exploit them. Denethor knows that the central south sitting area offers a near perfect view of the courtroom while at the same time concealing those sitting there. That it is an area which is rarely used is an added benefit. But it is also understandable for it would offer an assassin the perfect spot to act from. A good line of sight to fire an arrow from as well as concealing his presence. Bergil's answer pulls him back to the present.

"We will, captain. If you could excuse us, I do not want to keep you from your work. We also need to make our way the sitting area. I will see you later, captain."

The captain nods and then Bergil turns around back to the side of the tower. He mentions for them to follow him which Denethor and Finduilas do. Denethor is pleased to note that Bergil confirms the prince's trust in him.

Five minutes later, Denethor looks down upon the courtroom from where they are waking to the sitting area. Down below he can see peasants moving around. It surprises him for it is early for them to be walking around. They would normally arrive later or at least that is what he is used to. As he looks at the room he can see a group of chairs standing to the side of the room. He wonders why they are there. He wonders why they are there. Are they reserved for guests of the king? Or are they for the people? Denethor wants an answer to these question but knows that he has to wait for court to begin to get them. What he does know is that there are too few chairs for everyone. Especially, if more people will come. As for his question, he has a feeling that Bergil does not know the answers he seeks.

When he takes a look at the throne he suddenly remembers that he knows little about the king. At least, that what he knows is too little to tell him what the king is like for a person. A matter that has been on his mind for some time now. A matter which he has been unable to solve to his own irritation.

Denethor can see that two chairs stand before the throne. The black one he recognizes for that is the one he uses. The current steward will sit there during court. For as far as he knows it might be Faramir but he refuses to call him as such until he is certain that the prince is indeed his youngest son Faramir. The gray chair he has never seen before. It means that this one is added by the king. But for who Denethor has no idea. It could be for an important advisor. In case Gil would be the king as would be his right then Denethor would think it belonging to the steward of Arnor. This for Gil would be the king of Arnor and Gondor. 9f that Denethor is certain. It would mean that he would have to appoint someone as steward of Arnor for he cannot deal with matters from both realms at the same time on his own. He would need the aid of two stewards to be able to manage everything. Well, appointing for as far as he has not yet done in the past. Denethor is aware that he knows very little of how Arnor is ruled. As such he does not know if there is a steward in Arnor in his own time. It would be something to investigate once he is home.

Then he hears a door being opened. It tells him that they have arrived at the sitting area. When he looks in the director of the sound he sees Bergil standing by the door and mentioning for them to enter. Denethor nods to Bergil to show he understands him and then steps inside the sitting area. Finduilas coming along with him since she is still holding his arm.

Once inside he sees two chairs standing by the balcony in the optimal position to watch court. Another chair stands by the side. This one is most likely for Bergil as he told the captain that he would stay with them. That chair does not offer a lot of view into the courtroom. Against one wall stands a table with tea and refreshments already laid out. The tea stands on a heater so as to keep it warm until they will drink it. Depending on how long court might last they will need it more. Especially since he knows that there will be breaks if court lasts too long. It will ensure that everyone can focus appropriately. That this is all has been prepared for them Denethor attributes to the prince.

Suddenly, he hears the sound of the door being closed. It makes him turn around to see who closed it. Even though he has an idea who might have done it. He sees that it is Bergil who stands there. This confirms the words Bergil spoke earlier. As well as what he thought when he heard the door being closed. Bergil will be staying with them.

"Why do we not sit down? There is little to do for us by standing here. If you want you could take some tea and refreshments with you. I imagine we will be waiting here for some time for the court starts."

"You are right, young man. There is little for us to do but wait for the court starts. I do think we will take you up on the offer to take tea and refreshments with us."

That is the time that he feels a hand on his elbow pressing strongly on it. This hand directs him to the table he saw earlier. He lets himself be guided for he knows that protesting is of no use for him. If Finduilas acts like this then no matter what he will say will stop her. She will simply ignore him and do what she wants without him. As such he pours himself a cup of tea and gathers some refreshments on a plate.

Only the does he walk to the chairs and sits down in one of them. On his left side stands the other chair. When he looks to his right side he sees a small table standing there. Where it came from Denethor has no idea. He did not see it earlier. Still, he appreciates it for it allows him to place his tea and plate down. Of would have been cumbersome were he to hold both in his hand. Or at least, his teacup for he could have placed the plate on his lap. How well it would have gone then he has no idea. It does not mean that the table offers the best and safest solution for him.

"Denethor, look! I see lords arriving."

Finduilas voice surprises him for he did not notice her sitting down. Truthfully, he did not really pay attention to where she was for he imagined that she would spend quite some time choosing which refreshments she will want. If she has the time for it and has plenty to choose from then she will take her time. It is thus surprising that she has managed to gather everything already.

Finduilas words have him turning his attention to the courtroom. He can see that she is right. He sees lords arriving. As he looks, Denethor can see the lord of Anórien arriving as well as many others. Some are the sons of a lord he knows or one of their kin. Others are lords be knows. All this tells him that those lords have died.

Just then his eyes fall upon a very familiar appearance. He sees a few swan knights entering. Behind them comes a man dressed in blue robes with a silver swan stitched on it wearing a silver circlet. From this distance, it is impossible for Denethor to see the man's face. Based on the man's appearance as well as his height and beating, Denethor is certain of one thing. His brother-in-law just entered the courtroom.

It makes him pay attention to what the Herald is saying for he is certain that Imrahil would have been announced by the Herald. He did not earlier as he was busy watching the lords and did not listen to what was being said. Also, he was not aware that the court will begin soon. He knows that lords like Imrahil only enter court shortly before it begins. The minor lords always enter first followed not long afterward by the high lords. This is why he concluded that the court will begin soon. That is why he hears how the next lord is announced by the Herald.

"Lord Halbarad, son of Halladan, Steward of Arnor."

Denethor looks around the room and sees someone standing by the side door. There he sees a man walking through the opened door. The man's appearance is similar to the nobles. The nobles have a lot of Númemorean blood in them which gives them their appearance. The man walks towards the grey chair and sits down on it. Denethor wonders how the man got this position. Through inheritance or through appointment? He knows that this man is the steward of Arnor based on what he was told about the grey chair. Well, Denethor is aware that he might never get an answer to these questions. It does not mean that he will not try to do his best to learn it. A new announcement by the Herald has him turning his attention back to the room.

"His Highness, the Prince of Ithilien and Steward of Gondor, Faramir son of Denethor."

Now he knows for certain that the prince is truly his son Faramir. Just as he and Finduilas thought. He sees how Faramir goes straight to the black chair and stays standing there. Looking at the other steward he sees that the man also stands. When he looks around the room he can see that all those who previously sat are now standing. Looking at Finduilas and Bergil, they also stand up. Well, Bergil already stood. Denethor knows that soon he will finally get a good look at the king.

"His Majesty the King of Gondor and Arnor, Elessar Envinyatar."

Denethor makes sure to look carefully at the king. He wants to see if he can recognize him from anywhere. At least he got the impression in the past that he knows him. That is what he could pick up from Faramir's words. Even though they were carefully praised.

The way the king is dressed does not tell him a lot. It is the same way the lords are dressed. Only he wears a white mantel which is more expensive decorated than the ones the lords are wearing. He can see that the king has his sword with him as well as a scepter. This he knows belongs to the kings of Arnor and is a sign of their kingship. At the same time, he can see that the king wears a circlet with a bright stone on it. Denethor recognizes it but does not know from where. All he knows that it is familiar to him.

Then the king steps into the light and he can finally see his face. It is a face he would recognize from anywhere. It is more ages than he remembers it being. Not surprising considering the time that has passed. The face belongs to Thorongil.