Hello, glad you made it to chapter 2! Please review and enjoy...

Chapter 2 - Planning

E

Lady Eowyn of Rohan,

If it should please you, I invite you to accompany the royal family of Dol Amroth for this Sunday's luncheon at the third hour of the clock. If you are inclined to attend, instructions on how to arrive to the proper place are included with this message. I do hope you will acquiesce.

Yours kindly,

Lothiriel, Princess of Dol Amroth

Such a lovely hand she has. A luncheon? My stomach turns slightly, thinking of how much I might misunderstand at that Gondorian table. I breathe deeply and set my jaw. How dare I think of not accepting such a proposal? What a cowardly thing to do. Of course I will go. I might even have a chance to see- oh forget about him! He is too busy to notice you anymore. Even if he does make an appearance, he will only ignore you. You are attending to get to know Lothiriel, not to see her cousin! Do not bring your shame with you. I suppose I should return my answer soon. Do I have paper here? Yes, perfect.

L

'Faramir!'

'Yes, little one?'

Curtsy.

'I remember that you have experience with Rohirric customs.'

'Not personally, but I am familiar with many.'

'I wonder if you can recall some dishes of that region? We are hosting a luncheon for the White Lady and I would love to surprise her.'

'Ah! Well you are in luck. I happen to know many of her preferred foods.'

'Really? Excellent! But, how do you know?'

He chuckles a bit sheepishly.

'It is a long story.'

'Then tell me the short version.'

He nodded slightly, a small smile forming on his face.

'We spent some time together in the Houses, while the King Elessar and the rest of the brave warriors were fighting at the Black Gate.'

Spent time together? Faramir and Eowyn? I don't see it.

'I was unaware of your...time together, as you say.'

'I suppose not many outside of the Houses would be aware.'

'Did you enjoy the time?'

'I did, for my part.'

'And what do you mean by that?'

'Naught, dear cousin. Only that the time is over. The world moves on, and so must we. Do you think?'

'Maybe…' His answer seems unfinished. There is certainly more to this story, and to his feelings about her.

'Come now, Lothiriel. Let us discuss this luncheon.'

'Right. And you are welcome to come, Faramir, if you have nothing else to occupy your Sunday afternoon.'

'I think I unfortunately have quite the list of Stewardly duties to attend to. Perhaps your next event will be perfectly attendable.'

No! That will not do!

'Poor Lord Faramir, not any time for himself, let alone his sweet, young cousin who wants for nothing but his company.'

His normally inscrutable face bears a mixture of worry and relief. Did I go too far?

But in a few seconds, he relaxed again.

'I apologize, my lady. How rude of me to forget of your feelings on the matter. I will do what is within my power to attend.'

'No apology necessary, Faramir. I will be delighted if you come.' He bows his head.

'But for now, shall we converse about the meal?'

Like I said, a bit shorter than before. The chapters will vary in length from now on. I think I will be posting every few days or once a week, depending on my schedule. Just to update you! Chapter 3 coming soon...

-Anarwyn