To my loverly reviewers-
Angel of Harlem-Huh, never thought about "Stay" in that manner. Makes sense though! Here's the next chappie for you!
Alina 11-Owynvan is a dork, but a well-meaning one. Here's some more dorky- goodness for you!
WargishBoromirFan-Here it is! The confrontation! A climatic match of wills! Enjoy!
DiamondTook3-Here's you're update! Thanks for your unwavering support!
*Disclaimer: I do not own any characters created by J.R.R. Tolkien (such as Boromir, Faramir, or Denethor) or the story of "Pygmalion" by George Bernard Shaw or the musical "My Fair Lady" which is based on said play by Shaw. I own only Hallahiriel, the Barmaid of Dol Amroth, Corerith, Lady Brumwen, Therassa, Owynvan and Gweddyn.
This is a PARODY of both works. Boromir is the Henry Higgins, Faramir is Colonel Pickering, Hallahiriel is Eliza Doolittle and Denethor is the rough equivalent of Henry Higgins's uppity Ascot attending mother. The story is set in 3008, ten years before "Fellowship". Boromir is 30 and Faramir is 25.
MY FAIR BARMAID: A COMEDY
By Leah Pensotti
Chapter Nine: You Did It
It had been two weeks since Therassa and Owynvan came to visit; it had also been two weeks of torture for Boromir and Hallahiriel, because the brother and sister duo had continued calling nearly every day since then. Hallahiriel sat in the hall with Boromir and Faramir in the afternoon-one of the rare occasions that they had no visitors. Hallahiriel relished the silence and kept certain thoughts to herself. She found herself quite envious of the attention that Therassa required Boromir give her. It had been weeks since their last lesson and Halla could not help but feel that she may be missing time to practice before the ball. It was all Therassa, the she-dragon's fault.
And Owynvan's.
Hallahiriel fought back a headache to think of him. He was such a parasite. He leeched on to her, wishing to recite verses or sing or do some other foolish thing to gain her attention. She loathed him. He was too nice, too complementary, and too gracious. He was not at all like Boromir.
As they took rest in the hall, one of the Doorwards made an entrance.
"Lord Boromir. Lord Faramir. This has come from Dol Amroth. From Prince Imrahil."
Boromir rose and took the parchment from the Doorward's hand. He waved him away and thanked him for his service. Faramir stood beside his brother as Hallahiriel looked on in frustration.
"What is it brother? Is it ill news?"
Boromir sighed in a fretful tone and nodded, "Indeed."
Halla stood and looking concerned, "What is it Boromir?"
Boromir looked up and then to both of them, "The ball has been moved. It is three days from now."
Hallahiriel's heart dropped, "Three days? That cannot be."
Faramir looked serious, "What shall we do?"
Boromir rubbed his chin; "We leave tomorrow. We cannot let this chance pass by. Tonight we will go to the seamstress and make final the preparation of Halla's gown. We shall tell Corerith to pack for she and Halla both. She will need to come to help make ready our barmaid."
Faramir nodded, "And what about father?"
Boromir shrugged, "He will understand."
Hallahiriel interjected, "What about Therassa?"
Boromir looked at her sadly, "What of her?"
"Will she not think it odd?"
He laughed, "I, for one, Halla, do not care what she thinks."
"But your father-"
"My father will not care if I call on her after the ball. After you succeed. You'll be a princess and not have the threat of being turned out into the streets like vermin."
"But-"
Boromir placed his hand over her mouth; "You need not worry about anything but the ball. Now go to Corerith and make ready to go to the seamstress. Faramir and I will accompany you there."
~~
Hallahiriel stood with her arms extended as Aethlien made adjustments to the bodice and arms of the elaborate deep gray gown that had been festooned with shiny silver and blue adornments. The gown hung off her shoulders and was trimmed with a silver and blue floral design at the neck. The sleeves clung to the elbow and then flared out around the wrists and wing-like, almost touched the ground.
A voice came from behind the changing screen, "Any progress?"
Aethlien smiled sweetly and bid Hallahiriel to put her arms down. She disappeared to the front of the store and told Boromir that she was finished. Halla fidgeted a bit; the dress was quite uncomfortable, nonetheless lovely. Boromir called from behind the screen, "Halla? May I come back?"
"I suppose."
As he stepped behind the screen, he was taken speechless. Hallahiriel turned slowly; "Do you think this is proper to wear?"
Boromir collected himself, "I think it's perfect."
Hallahiriel turned back to the mirror and fidgeted some more. Boromir stepped directly behind her and she caught sight of him in the glass and raised an eyebrow, "Are you all right?"
"Fine. I'm fine."
He took another step, his chest practically against her back. He had become mesmerized by the bare skin between her neck and her shoulder and traveled the length of it curiously with his finger. Hallahiriel turned in shock, "What are you doing?"
She batted his hand away and spun on her heel to find herself toe to toe with him. As she looked up at him, his features softened dramatically. Boromir looked ashamed and began to apologize, "I'm sorry, Halla. I didn't- "
Hallahiriel smiled gently. She had seen the real Boromir in that moment; all of his former attributes diminished. She placed a finger to his lips to calm him, "It's alright."
Boromir looked surprised by her touch and took her hand from his lips and kissed it. Hallahiriel moved a bit closer to him. Boromir leaned his face down to hers and whispered hopefully, "Halla-"
Hallahiriel felt her heart pounding in her ears and titled her face towards his. She could not speak, so she looked him directly in the eyes. Boromir placed his hand beneath her chin and gently brushed his lips against hers. As the kiss ended, Hallahiriel pulled him closer to her and pressed herself against him, her arms snaking around his neck. Boromir captured her in his embrace and pressed her back against the wall of the shop and kissed her again. His mouth moved against hers hungrily as his fingers tangled in her hair. Hallahiriel wanted to laugh at the way his beard tickled her skin, but repressed it so she could continue in the moment.
Suddenly, Faramir called from behind the screen, "Is everything all right?"
Hallahiriel and Boromir broke away from each other quickly. Hallahiriel collected herself and called to Faramir, "You can come back."
As Faramir rounded the corner, he caught sight of Boromir and Hallahiriel's red faces, "Have you two been at it again?"
Boromir looked shocked, "At what?"
"Fighting. I can't leave you two alone for a moment. Aethlien thought there was something missing. She told me to come with her and gave me this."
Faramir extended his arms to Halla and gave her a deep blue, velveteen bundle. It was a cloak. Hallahiriel smiled and hoped Faramir wouldn't notice her swollen lips.
"It's lovely."
Boromir eyed her curiously and then turned to his brother, "We better be off. We have an early morning."
~~
The next morning, Hallahiriel met Faramir and Corerith downstairs in her burgundy riding dress and coat. Corerith smiled at the girl; "We are all packed up. Both of our horses are saddled and packed with your belongings. You'll have to ride with Lord Boromir, girl."
Hallahiriel could feel her face burning as Boromir walked into the hall. She could not look at him after what had happened at the seamstress's shop. Boromir greeted everyone and then commented gruffly, "We should be on our way to Dol Amroth. Is everything prepared?"
Faramir nodded, "You'll have to take Halla. Both my and Corerith's horses already bear the luggage."
Boromir looked to Hallahiriel and shrugged, "If I must."
They walked to the stables and Corerith, Faramir and Boromir mounted their horses. Boromir reached his hand down to her and smiled, "My lady."
Hallahiriel took his hand and he helped her up behind him. As she became situated she whispered to him, "Is this alright?"
Boromir shook his head, "No. You best hold on."
Halla smiled secretly and put her arms around his waist, "Is this better? Are you comfortable?"
Boromir chuckled, "Indeed. I think that this will be a most pleasant journey to Dol Amroth."
~~
Gweddyn stumbled up the white streets of Minas Tirith; he had been searching every level of the city, hoping to remember where those men had his daughter, Hallahiriel. "The Finicky Fief" had lost a good deal of business since the most reliable barmaid had run away. Gweddyn had hired no less than five barmaids since then and none of them could do the job that Hallahiriel had. Somehow he had to apologize to the girl and get her back home.
An opulently dressed woman stood outside her home, supervising arrangements being made for a journey. Gweddyn tapped her lightly on the shoulder and she turned around and sneered at him violently, "What reason do you have? Tapping me on the shoulder so rudely?"
Gweddyn jumped back; scared by the disgusted face of the woman. Gweddyn stammered, "Beggin' yehr pardon, Mam. I was lookin' fehr Lords Boromir and Faramir. I need to speak with 'em. Is urgent it is."
The lady wrinkled her brow; "What ever do you need to speak with them for?"
Gweddyn sighed worriedly, "It's me daughter yeh see. She's run off from 'er home in Dol Amroth. She's 'ere in the city with 'em, the Lords, I mean."
The woman found her interest piqued, "What is your daughter's name?"
Gweddyn chuckled, "Hallahiriel."
The woman tried to repress her excitedness, "Well, good sir. I fear that they have gone to Dol Amroth for an event at Prince Imrahil's. But my daughter and I are on our way there. We would happily have you accompany us and tell us of your tale."
Gweddyn smiled broadly, "Yehr a right good woman, Lady-er. I'm sorry I didn't catch yehr name."
The woman smiled in return, "I am Lady Brumwen. Come, let's find my lovely Therassa and make ready for the journey."
Lady Brumwen pushed the old drunkard gently towards the door to her house. The wheels in her head turned quickly, knowing what opportunities this held for her Therassa. That Hallahiriel was no more than a commoner and Brumwen herself will do the unveiling to Lord Boromir.
~~
The night of the ball had come quickly for Hallahiriel. They arrived in Dol Amroth the day before and Hallahiriel had not seen Boromir or Faramir since the meal that night. Corerith reminded her that because of Boromir and Faramir's stations, they were to hold counsel with Prince Imrahil and others that had made their way to the city.
Corerith helped Hallahiriel into her gown and fixed her hair. She twisted the front and pulled it away from her face with a silver filigreed ornament. As she brushed the back of Halla's hair into coppery red waves, there came a knock on the door. Corerith put the brush down on the dressing table and turned the knob to reveal Boromir behind the door, adorned in formal garb.
Corerith smiled, "I think she's ready, Lord Boromir."
Boromir nodded, "Indeed. Thank you for the help, Corerith. If you would go and make yourself ready, I would like to have a few moments with Hallahiriel."
Corerith nodded in return and scurried to her own quarters. Hallahiriel rose from the chair slowly and turned to meet his stare. Boromir shut the door quietly and took a few steps towards her. He adverted his eyes a few times; afraid to look at her, but more afraid to get carried away.
"How are you feeling, Halla?"
Hallahiriel sighed, "Anxious and a little scared."
Hearing the fear in her voice, Boromir looked to her with reassurance, "You'll do fine. Just remember what you have been taught."
Hallahiriel hung her head; a hundred questions colliding against each other in her mind. Boromir exhaled, "However, I do think that there is something missing."
She lifted her head to meet his gray eyes. He opened his hand to show a delicate silver necklace with filigreed flowers, meeting in the middle with a deep blue stone. Hallahiriel held her breath and looked up to Boromir with astonishment, "But-"
Boromir smiled gently, "It was my mother's. She hailed from Dol Amroth, like you. I thought it would be fitting."
Hallahiriel gently fingered the necklace in Boromir's open hand. She shook her head solemnly; "I can't wear it, Boromir."
Boromir chuckled, "And why not Halla?"
Hallahiriel sighed, "I do not wish anything to happen to it. I'm not a princess, Boromir. I'm a poor barmaid with a horrible family. Such a fine thing should not be worn by me."
Boromir could not restrain himself and touched her cheek, "Nonsense. You may not be a princess by station, but you are much more than a poor barmaid."
He walked behind her and smoothed her hair to one side. Boromir lifted the necklace over her head and fastened it. Hallahiriel's heart pounded in her chest, ready to burst through any moment.
Boromir turned her around by the shoulders to face him. Hallahiriel looked at him questioningly, "What will happen, Boromir? What will happen when this is all over?"
He stood before her, not really knowing what to say. He kissed her brow to help ease her fears and as he pulled away he saw the look on her face. Her plump, worried lips moved into a light and mysterious smile and he bent to claim them with his. Hallahiriel awaited the taste of his kiss eagerly and leaned in with abandon to accept his mouth with hers. She could've never imagined anything like this ever happening. She disliked him so. He treated her like she was inferior in every respect. Even though Boromir talked down to her and every little thing she detested about him; she could not help thinking about him all of the time. Hallahiriel could not envision what life would be like when the experiment was over; and she was not sure if she wanted to.
Boromir drew away slowly and cupped her face with his hands; "We should be going."
Hallahiriel nodded, "Yes."
He sighed roughly, "Halla, you will do very well tonight. I know it."
Hallahiriel smiled unsurely, "I certainly hope you're right."
Boromir nodded and kissed her brow again, "I'll get your cloak and then we must be off."
~~
Faramir walked to the stairs leading to the hall. As he walked past the stables he heard a strangely familiar voice call to him.
"Eh, there yeh are Cappin' Faramir. Ah've been lookin' fer yeh fer days."
Faramir turned to the man, who reeked of too much ale and recognized him as Hallahiriel's father, "Gweddyn? Whatever are you doing here?"
Gweddyn smiled lopsidedly, "'S funny, really. I went to yehr city to fetch Halla. 'The Fief' is in trouble, yeh see. I need me girl back. Best ale slinger in Middle-Earth, she is. So on me way in Minas Tirith, I met a woman who said yeh and yehr brother had come 'ere. She offered me a place in 'er company. She says 'er daughter knows Lord Boromir."
Faramir's eyes widened, "What is this good Lady's name?"
Gweddyn squinted and looked as though he was thinking very hard, "'Er name is Brumwen, I think. Yes, Lady Brumwen."
Faramir felt his pulse in his temples, "How much did you tell her about Halla?"
Gweddyn shrugged drunkenly, "I dunno, it was a long journey. Just 'bout ev'rythin' I suppose."
Faramir ran to the hall without any final words to the man. He had to warn Boromir and Hallahiriel that Brumwen knew. Somehow he had to stop her.
~~
Inside the hall, Boromir escorted her past the guests in their most regal clothes. She stood straight and tried not to shrink away from the pressure of the event.
Boromir stopped infront to the most noble looking man; tall, broad and handsome, "Prince Imrahil, this is Lady Hallahiriel. She is a guest of my father's, the Steward of Gondor."
Imrahil smiled and gave a small bow, "Lady Hallahiriel, it is a pleasure."
Hallahiriel bowed in return, "It is very kind of you to allow me to come, my lord."
Boromir looked to Hallahiriel with great pride. Yes, she would do well.
~~
Therassa stood beside her mother, adorned in her favorite green gown and scanning the guests for the horrible girl that had been manipulating poor Boromir and his brother the whole time.
"Do you see her, dear?"
Therassa turned to her mother, "No, but be certain that when I do I will reveal all to Lord Boromir."
Lady Brumwen shook her head, "Let me make the admission, dear. Your job is to comfort Boromir after he has learned that he has been betrayed. Oh, and your poor brother. Stupid lad, my Owynvan. Falling head over heels for a mere commoner and a barmaid at that! He will be heartbroken when I deal it to him. I think it was a good thing that he had business in Minas Tirith so he would not have to bear such a spectacle."
Therassa seethed impatiently. Hallahiriel would not leave this ball with a hair on her head or an ounce of pride. Suddenly, she saw a familiar sight. Boromir talked with Prince Imrahil as Hallahiriel spoke with a lady of the court.
"It's time, mother."
~~
Boromir felt a tap on his shoulder and turned around to meet the sharp features of Therassa. He tried not to look surprised and smiled, "Why, Therassa. I had no idea that you would be attending."
Therassa shot a look of contempt toward Hallahiriel and then back to Boromir, "I must tell you something of great import, my lord. About your guest. She's---"
Boromir nodded, "What?"
"She's a barmaid! And of no noble lineage!"
Boromir turned to Hallahiriel. This could not happen--the plan was working. Halla had worked so hard. Therassa would not ruin her chances. Boromir took Therassa by the elbow and led her toward the kitchen. He did his best to feign concern, "You must tell me everything.but in private."
Therassa babbled frantically, "And my poor brother! She played him for a fool! You cannot let her get away with this! A wretched barmaid!"
Boromir looked around the kitchen and spied a door that looked to be a small pantry.
"How did you learn this information, Therassa?"
Therassa rolled her eyes, "Her filthy, drunkard father stopped us in Minas Tirith and he rode with us to Dol Amroth. He told us such foul stories!"
Boromir discreetly opened the door and spun Therassa around by the waist. He leaned down a bit, "Therassa-"
She blushed coyly, "Yes, my lord?"
Boromir smiled, "I'm sorry."
Therassa raised a confused eyebrow, "For what?"
Boromir pushed her in the pantry that seemed to be filled with bags of flour and piles of potatoes. He shut the door and secured the lock. Boromir heard Therassa cry in confusion and made his way back to the hall.
~~
As Lady Brumwen made her way to where Hallahiriel spoke with Prince Imrahil and the members of his court, Faramir ran to meet her and caught her firmly by the wrist. She turned around and gave Faramir a venomous glare.
"Lord Faramir, I am not sure what you are trying to do, but I assure you that now is a very dire time."
Faramir struggled for something to say, "My lady, will you not take a turn across the floor with me? I would be most honored."
Brumwen chuckled, "My dear Faramir, I do appreciate the sentiment, but I have no time to dance. My daughter's future is on the line."
Faramir saw his brother dragging Therassa away from the guests and pointed to the scene, "Your daughter is in good keep. She and Boromir are talking rather closely."
Brumwen saw Lord Boromir leading Therassa away to privacy and turned to the young man; "She does look well, doesn't she. I suspect a proposal will be just around the corner."
Faramir stifled a chuckle with his hand and turned serious, "Please, Lady Brumwen. Whatever ails you, we can discuss it while dancing."
Lady Brumwen thought carefully and looked over her shoulder to find Hallahiriel talking amongst the guests, "It has to do with that horrid girl you and your brother have been housing."
Faramir nodded as he led the old widow out to where other couples danced.
~~
As Boromir walked back into the hall, he spied his little brother dancing with Lady Brumwen; a curious and odd sight to behold. He fought back a fit of laughter and approached Hallahiriel as she was dancing with a nobleman from Imrahil's court. He tapped the man on the shoulder and smiled, "May I cut in?"
The man nodded and released Hallahiriel into Boromir's arms. Hallahiriel looked confused and continued to dance, "Whatever is going on? Faramir is dancing with Lady Brumwen and you disappear into thin air?"
As Boromir moved her around the floor and out of sight of Lady Brumwen, he turned grave; "Halla, we have to go. You and I must bid farewell to the Prince and then we must make haste to prepare for our way back to Minas Tirith."
Hallahiriel's face dropped, "But we only just arrived. We haven't properly- "
"Halla, Therassa and Brumwen know everything. They met your father."
She looked heartbroken, "So it's over. And in such a humiliating fashion. I will be unveiled as a farce to the whole of my city."
Boromir stopped dancing and pulled her into the shadows and away from the eyes of the guests, "If we leave now and return to Minas Tirith, it will be days later until we hear from Therassa or Brumwen. My father already knows what you are. If they run to him they will not reveal anything. It is here where you must be seen as a princess and then news will travel though out the land. I will send Corerith for Faramir and tell him to meet us in an hour, just outside Dol Amroth. Then we will return to my city."
"What about Therassa and Brumwen? Will they not expose me to the Prince?"
Boromir smiled broadly, "I do not think they will put much credit into what Therassa says. They won't find her for another day at least, sitting on bags of flour and up to her neck in potatoes. And what well respecting Lady allows a saucy old drunkard ride with her company and fill her head up with such outstanding notions. You? A barmaid? Your own father doesn't even recognize you, let alone those scalawags that you used to serve and work with. They could not pick you out of a crowd. You have the advantage, Halla."
Hallahiriel nodded, "Alright. We should leave."
~~
Boromir, Hallahiriel and Corerith waited on their horses outside the city for Faramir to arrive. Hallahiriel wore her riding garb and leaned sadly into the comfort of Boromir's back. He could not help but feel for her. She looked exquisite and spoke at her very finest, only to have all she worked for balancing on a mad dash back to Minas Tirith.
When Faramir appeared on his horse, Boromir nodded gratefully, "You did well, brother."
Faramir grimaced tiredly, "I finally convinced Lady Brumwen not to publicly expose Halla. I promised her that we would be very stern and punish her."
Hallahiriel raised her head and looked at Faramir fearfully. Faramir smiled and shook his head, "Never you worry, Halla. We could never treat you so. But it was the only way."
Boromir nodded, "We should go."
As they nudged their horses forward, Hallahiriel held on to Boromir tightly. He looked over his shoulder to her and then turned back ahead to begin their silent journey.
~~
When they reached the home of the Steward, Denethor ran to meet them. He hugged Boromir tightly and laughed, "You did it, son! News of the girl reached our city this morning! She was assumed to be a princess from a far off land. Some even think that she had an ancestor of Elven lineage, for her uniqueness had never been seen before. You're brilliant, Boromir."
Hallahiriel listened curiously at the speculation. She of Elven ancestry? She was not even at the ball for an hour and word had traveled so far?
Boromir smiled at his father, "I had some help father, Faramir had a great deal to do. He was essential to the event last night."
Denethor waved at Boromir, "Yes, yes. Now, tell me about the ball. Tell me about what Imrahil had to say."
Denethor led Boromir into the hall, where they reveled in the success of the previous night's events. Hallahiriel looked to Faramir and gave him a sympathetic look. No one congratulated her, either. She was just the pawn in the game. No matter how hard she worked the success did not belong to her, but was added to Boromir's glory.
Hallahiriel bid goodnight to Faramir and followed Corerith to her quarters. There she sat before the mirror and questioned everything about herself. She had no identity, nothing to call her own. People speculated about her and she fell for the idea of cleaning herself up to be accepted by them. She was a princess; a princess who lived in a kingdom of lies and fantasy. It wasn't real. Nothing was real.
Hallahiriel sunk into the comfort of her bed and tended to her broken heart.
She would leave in the morning.
~~
Up next: Halla moves out, she and Boromir fight, a surprise engagement and the heroic return of Owynvan!
Please read and review! Let me know what you think!
Angel of Harlem-Huh, never thought about "Stay" in that manner. Makes sense though! Here's the next chappie for you!
Alina 11-Owynvan is a dork, but a well-meaning one. Here's some more dorky- goodness for you!
WargishBoromirFan-Here it is! The confrontation! A climatic match of wills! Enjoy!
DiamondTook3-Here's you're update! Thanks for your unwavering support!
*Disclaimer: I do not own any characters created by J.R.R. Tolkien (such as Boromir, Faramir, or Denethor) or the story of "Pygmalion" by George Bernard Shaw or the musical "My Fair Lady" which is based on said play by Shaw. I own only Hallahiriel, the Barmaid of Dol Amroth, Corerith, Lady Brumwen, Therassa, Owynvan and Gweddyn.
This is a PARODY of both works. Boromir is the Henry Higgins, Faramir is Colonel Pickering, Hallahiriel is Eliza Doolittle and Denethor is the rough equivalent of Henry Higgins's uppity Ascot attending mother. The story is set in 3008, ten years before "Fellowship". Boromir is 30 and Faramir is 25.
MY FAIR BARMAID: A COMEDY
By Leah Pensotti
Chapter Nine: You Did It
It had been two weeks since Therassa and Owynvan came to visit; it had also been two weeks of torture for Boromir and Hallahiriel, because the brother and sister duo had continued calling nearly every day since then. Hallahiriel sat in the hall with Boromir and Faramir in the afternoon-one of the rare occasions that they had no visitors. Hallahiriel relished the silence and kept certain thoughts to herself. She found herself quite envious of the attention that Therassa required Boromir give her. It had been weeks since their last lesson and Halla could not help but feel that she may be missing time to practice before the ball. It was all Therassa, the she-dragon's fault.
And Owynvan's.
Hallahiriel fought back a headache to think of him. He was such a parasite. He leeched on to her, wishing to recite verses or sing or do some other foolish thing to gain her attention. She loathed him. He was too nice, too complementary, and too gracious. He was not at all like Boromir.
As they took rest in the hall, one of the Doorwards made an entrance.
"Lord Boromir. Lord Faramir. This has come from Dol Amroth. From Prince Imrahil."
Boromir rose and took the parchment from the Doorward's hand. He waved him away and thanked him for his service. Faramir stood beside his brother as Hallahiriel looked on in frustration.
"What is it brother? Is it ill news?"
Boromir sighed in a fretful tone and nodded, "Indeed."
Halla stood and looking concerned, "What is it Boromir?"
Boromir looked up and then to both of them, "The ball has been moved. It is three days from now."
Hallahiriel's heart dropped, "Three days? That cannot be."
Faramir looked serious, "What shall we do?"
Boromir rubbed his chin; "We leave tomorrow. We cannot let this chance pass by. Tonight we will go to the seamstress and make final the preparation of Halla's gown. We shall tell Corerith to pack for she and Halla both. She will need to come to help make ready our barmaid."
Faramir nodded, "And what about father?"
Boromir shrugged, "He will understand."
Hallahiriel interjected, "What about Therassa?"
Boromir looked at her sadly, "What of her?"
"Will she not think it odd?"
He laughed, "I, for one, Halla, do not care what she thinks."
"But your father-"
"My father will not care if I call on her after the ball. After you succeed. You'll be a princess and not have the threat of being turned out into the streets like vermin."
"But-"
Boromir placed his hand over her mouth; "You need not worry about anything but the ball. Now go to Corerith and make ready to go to the seamstress. Faramir and I will accompany you there."
~~
Hallahiriel stood with her arms extended as Aethlien made adjustments to the bodice and arms of the elaborate deep gray gown that had been festooned with shiny silver and blue adornments. The gown hung off her shoulders and was trimmed with a silver and blue floral design at the neck. The sleeves clung to the elbow and then flared out around the wrists and wing-like, almost touched the ground.
A voice came from behind the changing screen, "Any progress?"
Aethlien smiled sweetly and bid Hallahiriel to put her arms down. She disappeared to the front of the store and told Boromir that she was finished. Halla fidgeted a bit; the dress was quite uncomfortable, nonetheless lovely. Boromir called from behind the screen, "Halla? May I come back?"
"I suppose."
As he stepped behind the screen, he was taken speechless. Hallahiriel turned slowly; "Do you think this is proper to wear?"
Boromir collected himself, "I think it's perfect."
Hallahiriel turned back to the mirror and fidgeted some more. Boromir stepped directly behind her and she caught sight of him in the glass and raised an eyebrow, "Are you all right?"
"Fine. I'm fine."
He took another step, his chest practically against her back. He had become mesmerized by the bare skin between her neck and her shoulder and traveled the length of it curiously with his finger. Hallahiriel turned in shock, "What are you doing?"
She batted his hand away and spun on her heel to find herself toe to toe with him. As she looked up at him, his features softened dramatically. Boromir looked ashamed and began to apologize, "I'm sorry, Halla. I didn't- "
Hallahiriel smiled gently. She had seen the real Boromir in that moment; all of his former attributes diminished. She placed a finger to his lips to calm him, "It's alright."
Boromir looked surprised by her touch and took her hand from his lips and kissed it. Hallahiriel moved a bit closer to him. Boromir leaned his face down to hers and whispered hopefully, "Halla-"
Hallahiriel felt her heart pounding in her ears and titled her face towards his. She could not speak, so she looked him directly in the eyes. Boromir placed his hand beneath her chin and gently brushed his lips against hers. As the kiss ended, Hallahiriel pulled him closer to her and pressed herself against him, her arms snaking around his neck. Boromir captured her in his embrace and pressed her back against the wall of the shop and kissed her again. His mouth moved against hers hungrily as his fingers tangled in her hair. Hallahiriel wanted to laugh at the way his beard tickled her skin, but repressed it so she could continue in the moment.
Suddenly, Faramir called from behind the screen, "Is everything all right?"
Hallahiriel and Boromir broke away from each other quickly. Hallahiriel collected herself and called to Faramir, "You can come back."
As Faramir rounded the corner, he caught sight of Boromir and Hallahiriel's red faces, "Have you two been at it again?"
Boromir looked shocked, "At what?"
"Fighting. I can't leave you two alone for a moment. Aethlien thought there was something missing. She told me to come with her and gave me this."
Faramir extended his arms to Halla and gave her a deep blue, velveteen bundle. It was a cloak. Hallahiriel smiled and hoped Faramir wouldn't notice her swollen lips.
"It's lovely."
Boromir eyed her curiously and then turned to his brother, "We better be off. We have an early morning."
~~
The next morning, Hallahiriel met Faramir and Corerith downstairs in her burgundy riding dress and coat. Corerith smiled at the girl; "We are all packed up. Both of our horses are saddled and packed with your belongings. You'll have to ride with Lord Boromir, girl."
Hallahiriel could feel her face burning as Boromir walked into the hall. She could not look at him after what had happened at the seamstress's shop. Boromir greeted everyone and then commented gruffly, "We should be on our way to Dol Amroth. Is everything prepared?"
Faramir nodded, "You'll have to take Halla. Both my and Corerith's horses already bear the luggage."
Boromir looked to Hallahiriel and shrugged, "If I must."
They walked to the stables and Corerith, Faramir and Boromir mounted their horses. Boromir reached his hand down to her and smiled, "My lady."
Hallahiriel took his hand and he helped her up behind him. As she became situated she whispered to him, "Is this alright?"
Boromir shook his head, "No. You best hold on."
Halla smiled secretly and put her arms around his waist, "Is this better? Are you comfortable?"
Boromir chuckled, "Indeed. I think that this will be a most pleasant journey to Dol Amroth."
~~
Gweddyn stumbled up the white streets of Minas Tirith; he had been searching every level of the city, hoping to remember where those men had his daughter, Hallahiriel. "The Finicky Fief" had lost a good deal of business since the most reliable barmaid had run away. Gweddyn had hired no less than five barmaids since then and none of them could do the job that Hallahiriel had. Somehow he had to apologize to the girl and get her back home.
An opulently dressed woman stood outside her home, supervising arrangements being made for a journey. Gweddyn tapped her lightly on the shoulder and she turned around and sneered at him violently, "What reason do you have? Tapping me on the shoulder so rudely?"
Gweddyn jumped back; scared by the disgusted face of the woman. Gweddyn stammered, "Beggin' yehr pardon, Mam. I was lookin' fehr Lords Boromir and Faramir. I need to speak with 'em. Is urgent it is."
The lady wrinkled her brow; "What ever do you need to speak with them for?"
Gweddyn sighed worriedly, "It's me daughter yeh see. She's run off from 'er home in Dol Amroth. She's 'ere in the city with 'em, the Lords, I mean."
The woman found her interest piqued, "What is your daughter's name?"
Gweddyn chuckled, "Hallahiriel."
The woman tried to repress her excitedness, "Well, good sir. I fear that they have gone to Dol Amroth for an event at Prince Imrahil's. But my daughter and I are on our way there. We would happily have you accompany us and tell us of your tale."
Gweddyn smiled broadly, "Yehr a right good woman, Lady-er. I'm sorry I didn't catch yehr name."
The woman smiled in return, "I am Lady Brumwen. Come, let's find my lovely Therassa and make ready for the journey."
Lady Brumwen pushed the old drunkard gently towards the door to her house. The wheels in her head turned quickly, knowing what opportunities this held for her Therassa. That Hallahiriel was no more than a commoner and Brumwen herself will do the unveiling to Lord Boromir.
~~
The night of the ball had come quickly for Hallahiriel. They arrived in Dol Amroth the day before and Hallahiriel had not seen Boromir or Faramir since the meal that night. Corerith reminded her that because of Boromir and Faramir's stations, they were to hold counsel with Prince Imrahil and others that had made their way to the city.
Corerith helped Hallahiriel into her gown and fixed her hair. She twisted the front and pulled it away from her face with a silver filigreed ornament. As she brushed the back of Halla's hair into coppery red waves, there came a knock on the door. Corerith put the brush down on the dressing table and turned the knob to reveal Boromir behind the door, adorned in formal garb.
Corerith smiled, "I think she's ready, Lord Boromir."
Boromir nodded, "Indeed. Thank you for the help, Corerith. If you would go and make yourself ready, I would like to have a few moments with Hallahiriel."
Corerith nodded in return and scurried to her own quarters. Hallahiriel rose from the chair slowly and turned to meet his stare. Boromir shut the door quietly and took a few steps towards her. He adverted his eyes a few times; afraid to look at her, but more afraid to get carried away.
"How are you feeling, Halla?"
Hallahiriel sighed, "Anxious and a little scared."
Hearing the fear in her voice, Boromir looked to her with reassurance, "You'll do fine. Just remember what you have been taught."
Hallahiriel hung her head; a hundred questions colliding against each other in her mind. Boromir exhaled, "However, I do think that there is something missing."
She lifted her head to meet his gray eyes. He opened his hand to show a delicate silver necklace with filigreed flowers, meeting in the middle with a deep blue stone. Hallahiriel held her breath and looked up to Boromir with astonishment, "But-"
Boromir smiled gently, "It was my mother's. She hailed from Dol Amroth, like you. I thought it would be fitting."
Hallahiriel gently fingered the necklace in Boromir's open hand. She shook her head solemnly; "I can't wear it, Boromir."
Boromir chuckled, "And why not Halla?"
Hallahiriel sighed, "I do not wish anything to happen to it. I'm not a princess, Boromir. I'm a poor barmaid with a horrible family. Such a fine thing should not be worn by me."
Boromir could not restrain himself and touched her cheek, "Nonsense. You may not be a princess by station, but you are much more than a poor barmaid."
He walked behind her and smoothed her hair to one side. Boromir lifted the necklace over her head and fastened it. Hallahiriel's heart pounded in her chest, ready to burst through any moment.
Boromir turned her around by the shoulders to face him. Hallahiriel looked at him questioningly, "What will happen, Boromir? What will happen when this is all over?"
He stood before her, not really knowing what to say. He kissed her brow to help ease her fears and as he pulled away he saw the look on her face. Her plump, worried lips moved into a light and mysterious smile and he bent to claim them with his. Hallahiriel awaited the taste of his kiss eagerly and leaned in with abandon to accept his mouth with hers. She could've never imagined anything like this ever happening. She disliked him so. He treated her like she was inferior in every respect. Even though Boromir talked down to her and every little thing she detested about him; she could not help thinking about him all of the time. Hallahiriel could not envision what life would be like when the experiment was over; and she was not sure if she wanted to.
Boromir drew away slowly and cupped her face with his hands; "We should be going."
Hallahiriel nodded, "Yes."
He sighed roughly, "Halla, you will do very well tonight. I know it."
Hallahiriel smiled unsurely, "I certainly hope you're right."
Boromir nodded and kissed her brow again, "I'll get your cloak and then we must be off."
~~
Faramir walked to the stairs leading to the hall. As he walked past the stables he heard a strangely familiar voice call to him.
"Eh, there yeh are Cappin' Faramir. Ah've been lookin' fer yeh fer days."
Faramir turned to the man, who reeked of too much ale and recognized him as Hallahiriel's father, "Gweddyn? Whatever are you doing here?"
Gweddyn smiled lopsidedly, "'S funny, really. I went to yehr city to fetch Halla. 'The Fief' is in trouble, yeh see. I need me girl back. Best ale slinger in Middle-Earth, she is. So on me way in Minas Tirith, I met a woman who said yeh and yehr brother had come 'ere. She offered me a place in 'er company. She says 'er daughter knows Lord Boromir."
Faramir's eyes widened, "What is this good Lady's name?"
Gweddyn squinted and looked as though he was thinking very hard, "'Er name is Brumwen, I think. Yes, Lady Brumwen."
Faramir felt his pulse in his temples, "How much did you tell her about Halla?"
Gweddyn shrugged drunkenly, "I dunno, it was a long journey. Just 'bout ev'rythin' I suppose."
Faramir ran to the hall without any final words to the man. He had to warn Boromir and Hallahiriel that Brumwen knew. Somehow he had to stop her.
~~
Inside the hall, Boromir escorted her past the guests in their most regal clothes. She stood straight and tried not to shrink away from the pressure of the event.
Boromir stopped infront to the most noble looking man; tall, broad and handsome, "Prince Imrahil, this is Lady Hallahiriel. She is a guest of my father's, the Steward of Gondor."
Imrahil smiled and gave a small bow, "Lady Hallahiriel, it is a pleasure."
Hallahiriel bowed in return, "It is very kind of you to allow me to come, my lord."
Boromir looked to Hallahiriel with great pride. Yes, she would do well.
~~
Therassa stood beside her mother, adorned in her favorite green gown and scanning the guests for the horrible girl that had been manipulating poor Boromir and his brother the whole time.
"Do you see her, dear?"
Therassa turned to her mother, "No, but be certain that when I do I will reveal all to Lord Boromir."
Lady Brumwen shook her head, "Let me make the admission, dear. Your job is to comfort Boromir after he has learned that he has been betrayed. Oh, and your poor brother. Stupid lad, my Owynvan. Falling head over heels for a mere commoner and a barmaid at that! He will be heartbroken when I deal it to him. I think it was a good thing that he had business in Minas Tirith so he would not have to bear such a spectacle."
Therassa seethed impatiently. Hallahiriel would not leave this ball with a hair on her head or an ounce of pride. Suddenly, she saw a familiar sight. Boromir talked with Prince Imrahil as Hallahiriel spoke with a lady of the court.
"It's time, mother."
~~
Boromir felt a tap on his shoulder and turned around to meet the sharp features of Therassa. He tried not to look surprised and smiled, "Why, Therassa. I had no idea that you would be attending."
Therassa shot a look of contempt toward Hallahiriel and then back to Boromir, "I must tell you something of great import, my lord. About your guest. She's---"
Boromir nodded, "What?"
"She's a barmaid! And of no noble lineage!"
Boromir turned to Hallahiriel. This could not happen--the plan was working. Halla had worked so hard. Therassa would not ruin her chances. Boromir took Therassa by the elbow and led her toward the kitchen. He did his best to feign concern, "You must tell me everything.but in private."
Therassa babbled frantically, "And my poor brother! She played him for a fool! You cannot let her get away with this! A wretched barmaid!"
Boromir looked around the kitchen and spied a door that looked to be a small pantry.
"How did you learn this information, Therassa?"
Therassa rolled her eyes, "Her filthy, drunkard father stopped us in Minas Tirith and he rode with us to Dol Amroth. He told us such foul stories!"
Boromir discreetly opened the door and spun Therassa around by the waist. He leaned down a bit, "Therassa-"
She blushed coyly, "Yes, my lord?"
Boromir smiled, "I'm sorry."
Therassa raised a confused eyebrow, "For what?"
Boromir pushed her in the pantry that seemed to be filled with bags of flour and piles of potatoes. He shut the door and secured the lock. Boromir heard Therassa cry in confusion and made his way back to the hall.
~~
As Lady Brumwen made her way to where Hallahiriel spoke with Prince Imrahil and the members of his court, Faramir ran to meet her and caught her firmly by the wrist. She turned around and gave Faramir a venomous glare.
"Lord Faramir, I am not sure what you are trying to do, but I assure you that now is a very dire time."
Faramir struggled for something to say, "My lady, will you not take a turn across the floor with me? I would be most honored."
Brumwen chuckled, "My dear Faramir, I do appreciate the sentiment, but I have no time to dance. My daughter's future is on the line."
Faramir saw his brother dragging Therassa away from the guests and pointed to the scene, "Your daughter is in good keep. She and Boromir are talking rather closely."
Brumwen saw Lord Boromir leading Therassa away to privacy and turned to the young man; "She does look well, doesn't she. I suspect a proposal will be just around the corner."
Faramir stifled a chuckle with his hand and turned serious, "Please, Lady Brumwen. Whatever ails you, we can discuss it while dancing."
Lady Brumwen thought carefully and looked over her shoulder to find Hallahiriel talking amongst the guests, "It has to do with that horrid girl you and your brother have been housing."
Faramir nodded as he led the old widow out to where other couples danced.
~~
As Boromir walked back into the hall, he spied his little brother dancing with Lady Brumwen; a curious and odd sight to behold. He fought back a fit of laughter and approached Hallahiriel as she was dancing with a nobleman from Imrahil's court. He tapped the man on the shoulder and smiled, "May I cut in?"
The man nodded and released Hallahiriel into Boromir's arms. Hallahiriel looked confused and continued to dance, "Whatever is going on? Faramir is dancing with Lady Brumwen and you disappear into thin air?"
As Boromir moved her around the floor and out of sight of Lady Brumwen, he turned grave; "Halla, we have to go. You and I must bid farewell to the Prince and then we must make haste to prepare for our way back to Minas Tirith."
Hallahiriel's face dropped, "But we only just arrived. We haven't properly- "
"Halla, Therassa and Brumwen know everything. They met your father."
She looked heartbroken, "So it's over. And in such a humiliating fashion. I will be unveiled as a farce to the whole of my city."
Boromir stopped dancing and pulled her into the shadows and away from the eyes of the guests, "If we leave now and return to Minas Tirith, it will be days later until we hear from Therassa or Brumwen. My father already knows what you are. If they run to him they will not reveal anything. It is here where you must be seen as a princess and then news will travel though out the land. I will send Corerith for Faramir and tell him to meet us in an hour, just outside Dol Amroth. Then we will return to my city."
"What about Therassa and Brumwen? Will they not expose me to the Prince?"
Boromir smiled broadly, "I do not think they will put much credit into what Therassa says. They won't find her for another day at least, sitting on bags of flour and up to her neck in potatoes. And what well respecting Lady allows a saucy old drunkard ride with her company and fill her head up with such outstanding notions. You? A barmaid? Your own father doesn't even recognize you, let alone those scalawags that you used to serve and work with. They could not pick you out of a crowd. You have the advantage, Halla."
Hallahiriel nodded, "Alright. We should leave."
~~
Boromir, Hallahiriel and Corerith waited on their horses outside the city for Faramir to arrive. Hallahiriel wore her riding garb and leaned sadly into the comfort of Boromir's back. He could not help but feel for her. She looked exquisite and spoke at her very finest, only to have all she worked for balancing on a mad dash back to Minas Tirith.
When Faramir appeared on his horse, Boromir nodded gratefully, "You did well, brother."
Faramir grimaced tiredly, "I finally convinced Lady Brumwen not to publicly expose Halla. I promised her that we would be very stern and punish her."
Hallahiriel raised her head and looked at Faramir fearfully. Faramir smiled and shook his head, "Never you worry, Halla. We could never treat you so. But it was the only way."
Boromir nodded, "We should go."
As they nudged their horses forward, Hallahiriel held on to Boromir tightly. He looked over his shoulder to her and then turned back ahead to begin their silent journey.
~~
When they reached the home of the Steward, Denethor ran to meet them. He hugged Boromir tightly and laughed, "You did it, son! News of the girl reached our city this morning! She was assumed to be a princess from a far off land. Some even think that she had an ancestor of Elven lineage, for her uniqueness had never been seen before. You're brilliant, Boromir."
Hallahiriel listened curiously at the speculation. She of Elven ancestry? She was not even at the ball for an hour and word had traveled so far?
Boromir smiled at his father, "I had some help father, Faramir had a great deal to do. He was essential to the event last night."
Denethor waved at Boromir, "Yes, yes. Now, tell me about the ball. Tell me about what Imrahil had to say."
Denethor led Boromir into the hall, where they reveled in the success of the previous night's events. Hallahiriel looked to Faramir and gave him a sympathetic look. No one congratulated her, either. She was just the pawn in the game. No matter how hard she worked the success did not belong to her, but was added to Boromir's glory.
Hallahiriel bid goodnight to Faramir and followed Corerith to her quarters. There she sat before the mirror and questioned everything about herself. She had no identity, nothing to call her own. People speculated about her and she fell for the idea of cleaning herself up to be accepted by them. She was a princess; a princess who lived in a kingdom of lies and fantasy. It wasn't real. Nothing was real.
Hallahiriel sunk into the comfort of her bed and tended to her broken heart.
She would leave in the morning.
~~
Up next: Halla moves out, she and Boromir fight, a surprise engagement and the heroic return of Owynvan!
Please read and review! Let me know what you think!