Chapter Two: A Terrible Crime

This is the perfect plan, Aragorn thought smugly. I'll pretend to consider allowing Liriel and Termir to marry, while really scaring him away from the royal family of Gondor.

Aragorn and Liriel were already back on good terms, but he wasn't sure if Arwen had forgiven him for his previous insult. She had saved him from the public humiliation of sleeping in the hallway and instead had let him sleep on the stone floor of their bedchamber. When he had tried to steal a pillow from their bed she had punched him. But that was probably because she was tired, not mad, Aragorn reasoned.

He watched out of the corner of his eye as Arwen slipped her circlet onto her head, her dark hair dancing in the late morning sun. Aragorn held her cloak out to her. She snatched it away with a glare that would have made Sauron run for cover, then stomped out of the room.

So we're still not speaking. I didn't really insult her, all I meant was that Liriel cannot be given away to just any man as Arwen was. Aragorn realized he had insulted himself and quickly took back his thoughts. He reached for his sword and knives and slid them into his belt. He debated about taking his bow, but decided it wouldn't be necessary. He settled on another knife and made his way to the stables.

Aragorn was greeted by his head stable hand, Berenor, "My lord, we were not expecting a visit today," Berenor said uncertainly.

"I was not expecting to come here today, Berenor. But a most unfortunate matter has been brought to my attention." Aragorn said gravely. "Is Termir here?

Berenor waved in the general direction of three young men. Which one is Termir? Aragorn wondered. There were two large men who looked like they had some skill in weaponry. One had a grin on his face and a booming laugh, but the other one was snarling and cursing loudly. The third was a thin, black-haired man who looked shy and useless.

Maybe she likes the evil one, Aragorn thought hopefully. Then I would have a reason to be angry and forbid the marriage. But the smiling one is more to her taste.

"Could you tell Termir that I wish to meet with him in the second hour of the afternoon?" Aragorn asked grimly.

"Of course, my lord. But may I inquire what this is about?" Berenor questioned, concerned.

Aragorn cleared his throat and gave what he hoped was a sad sigh. "Termir has comitted a crime punishable by death," Aragorn said, loud enough for all to hear. Then, drawing his sword, he strode away.

______________________________________________________________________________________

A/N: Ok, I know this is a short chapter, but consider it a placeholder for the next chapter, which will probably be the last. And I know it's not the best chapter, but it'll do. Chapter 3 will be Aragorn scaring the crap out of Termir, and Aragorn's final decision about the marriage. So let me know what you think of this story so far and you'll see the end! Thanks for the reviews!