*Disclaimer: I do not own any characters created by J.R.R. Tolkien (such as
Boromir, Faramir, or Denethor). I own only Hallahiriel, the former Barmaid
of Dol Amroth, Corerith, Lady Brumwen, Therassa, Owynvan and Gweddyn.
The story is set in 3011, seven years before "Fellowship." Boromir is 33 and Faramir is 28. Hallahiriel happens to be 26.
The Continuing Story of Hallahiriel, the Former Barmaid of Dol tormented
By Leah Pensotti
Chapter Three: Fortune's Fool and Prodigal Son
Hallahiriel inwardly fumed at the news that her husband would be leaving for Rohan in a matter of weeks. She tied her hair back awkwardly and avoided his eyes, for she thought that she may rip them out. Boromir watched her intensely and saw that she was very unhappy.
"It's my duty, Halla. I must go." Boromir stated simply. His wife sat with her back to him on their bed and sighed. She felt like crying again, but was filled with too much anger to do so.
"How long will you be gone?" Hallahiriel already knew the answer, but asked the question anyway. Her shoulders slumped slightly and she waited for the inevitable.
"For at least a month." Boromir saw Hallahiriel shut her eyes and fight back the raging emotions brewing in her mind. She silently ticked off the time in her head and felt heartbroken at the circumstances.
She turned to Boromir slowly with a caustic look on her face, "I will have passed my eighth month when you will arrive home. Are you certain you will make it in time?"
"My father assures me I will be home before then." Boromir took her hand gently and tried to appease her anger. Hallahiriel jerked her hand away quickly and stood before him with a furious look on her face. What did his father know about carrying and delivering a child? Her hands rested on her stomach protectively and she chose her words very carefully.
"Tell me, husband, what will happen if our child arrives early? I assure you that it's not unheard of." Hallahiriel fired at him. It had been sometime since they exchanged words, however, Hallahiriel thought that the moment at hand was fully substantiated. Boromir looked surprised and rose slowly from the bed with a stern look on his face.
"Well, if it isn't the saucy barmaid I once knew, rearing her head again. It's been awhile since I have seen this side of the well-tempered Halla." Boromir chuckled in a sightly cold manner.
Hallahiriel clenched her fists tightly and flush rose into her cheeks, "And you are still the arrogant man that you were. Has it never occurred to you, Boromir, that I may need you here? I am lonely and my days are long. You have been away three months so far this year. I am scared to death about giving birth to our child and I want you to be there! I am more confident when you are around. What if something happens to me, or to the child and you are not here? What if something happens to you? Tell me that I do not have a reason or the right to be angry about the situation!"
Tears formed in the corners of her eyes and her body trembled. Boromir saw how fearful she truly was and knew that she had every reason to be angry. He did not wish to leave her and he would not have her worry about him; Boromir knew she was lonely when he and Faramir were away and for that he felt guilty to speak to her so. He pulled her to his chest, clung to her tightly and kissed her hair on the top of her head.
"I understand why you are angry, Halla, but I must go. I will be home in time for our child to be born, and if I am not I will instruct Faramir to send word to me and I will return home as soon as I can. I want more than anything to help you through it."
Hallahiriel looked up at him uncertainly, "Faramir is not going with you?"
Boromir nodded and sighed, "Father bids me to go to Rohan alone. Faramir will be here with you."
Hallahiriel rested her cheek near his shoulder and sighed. She found a little more comfort in this news and ultimately ended up worrying about Faramir. She did not wish to burden him with her strange mood shifts and everything else that comes with pregnancy. Boromir pulled away slowly and held her at arms length.
"Come, let's have breakfast and ask Faramir and Corerith to come into the city with us. We can go to Aethlien's shop and see if she has anything suitable for the nursery. It is a fine fall day, Halla. It will do you good to venture outside the courtyard."
Hallahiriel looked stunned, "But I look terrible."
Boromir could not help but chuckle, "Nonsense! I shall go get Corerith and she will help you get ready."
Before she had the chance to argue, Boromir kissed her quickly and made his way out the door. Hallahiriel then sat on the bed and dreaded the adventure to come.
~~
After Corerith dressed Hallahiriel in a fine blue-black dress she had altered, she twisted the top of her red-gold hair back away from her face in an ornate fashion and fastened the blue and silver necklace that she had first worn to Imrahil's about her neck. Corerith smiled at her handiwork and asked in a sweet manner, "How do you feel now, Halla?"
She looked the mirror and shrugged, "I feel like one of the Mumakil of Harad in a fine dress. Gigantic and uncomfortable."
"Well, you look absolutely lovely, dear." Corerith brushed off the remark good naturedly and wrapped a grey cloak around Hallahiriel and ushered her out the door.
When they arrived downstairs, Boromir smiled at the sight of Hallahiriel dressed regally and offered his arm to her. Hallahiriel accepted his arm silently and looked to Faramir, who had just entered the room. Faramir smiled and nodded, "Are we ready to go?"
Hallahiriel shrugged and looked to Corerith and Boromir who merely confirmed the answer with smiles. As they made their way to gates into the city, Hallahiriel called to her husband, "Boromir?"
Boromir looked to her and answered, "Yes, love?"
"Is this a feeble attempt to make me feel better?" Hallahiriel raised an eyebrow to him suspiciously and waited for his answer.
Boromir exhaled softly, "Why? Is it not working?"
"No."
"Well then, I suppose it could be called feeble." Boromir smiled in spite of himself and Hallahiriel chuckled in a knowing way. She clutched onto his arm and allowed the early autumn air to fill her lungs. It was a nice day, Boromir was right about that.
It was a well-known fact that the eldest son of the Steward and his young wife were expecting a child. However, few had seen Hallahiriel since the news came upon the city. So when Boromir, Faramir and Hallahiriel were seen on the street that day, people all over the city stuck their heads outside their windows and doors and watched from their carts and businesses. All of the faces she saw wore happy smiles, but they didn't make her any less uncomfortable.
Boromir, Faramir, Corerith and Hallahiriel entered the seamstress' shop and waited patiently until Aethlien hobbled out into plain view. The poor woman had aged quite a bit in the past three years, falling ill frequently and Hallahiriel had not been able to help her in the past few months as she had wanted to. Aethlien squinted her old eyes and called out in an excited manner, "Halla, my girl! Is that you?"
Hallahiriel smiled warmly, she was very happy to see Aethlien, "Indeed it is. How are you Lady Aethlien?"
She bent down and hugged the seamstress to her and Aethlien replied, "I am old and pitiful, Halla, let me get a closer look at you."
Hallahiriel lowered her face to Aethlien and she patted her cheek lovingly, "As pretty as ever. And nearly due! You are sure to deliver within a month!"
"Actually, only a little less than three months." Hallahiriel stated and caught the look that Corerith sent her. Aethlien looked baffled and studied the girl a little closer.
"Well, my sight is failing me," she moved closer to Boromir and patted him on the shoulder, "It is good to see you back in the city, Lord Boromir."
He smiled and nodded, "Indeed it is, Lady Aethlien."
The old seamstress walked over to Faramir and smiled, "And how do things fare for you, Lord Faramir?"
Faramir chuckled, "I am well, very well."
"Such handsome men!" Aethlien commented loudly and shook her head. Hallahiriel chuckled as she saw both her husband and her brother-in-law stand a little taller with the complement. She looked around the shop and noticed that it was in very good order. The best she had seen it look in two years.
"Aethlien, the shop looks wonderful!"
The seamstress turned around and smiled, "I've had help in the past month. My niece, Thaurelda from Lamedon has come to stay with me. She's a sweet girl, around your age. Would you like to meet her?"
Hallahiriel nodded curiously, "Yes, I would like it very much."
"Thaurelda! Come down stairs! We have guests that I would like you to meet!" Aethlien called loudly.
Hallahiriel looked to Boromir, took his hand and shrugged. Suddenly, a thin frame hurried down the stairs and came to a halt beside the seamstress. Hallahiriel looked at the young woman and smiled. Thaurelda was more than a few inches taller than Hallahiriel and had long black hair that was pulled back away from her face. Her skin was lightly tanned and there were a few freckles across her nose. Her eyes burned a nervous green- brown, her full lips were pulled into a smile and she wore a dress that was a deep shade of green. Hallahiriel deemed her to be quite beautiful and very tall.
Aethlien nodded to her guests, "Thaurelda dear, I wish to introduce you to the sons of the Steward; Lord Boromir and Lord Faramir."
Thaurelda curtsied and gave an embarrassed smile, "My lords."
Hallahiriel caught the fleeting look on the girl's face as she met eyes with Faramir and repressed a light giggle that almost escaped her lips. Aethlien nodded to the women, "This is Corerith, she keeps the Stewards house and this young woman is Lady Hallahiriel, Lord Boromir's wife. She is a very good friend to me."
Thaurelda looked to Hallahiriel in awe and curtsied again, "My lady, I have heard so much about you! Not only from my aunt, but from my home in Lamedon! People still tell their children the story of the mysterious princess from Elven lineage that went to Prince Imrahil's ball and caught the fancy of every eligible man in Middle-Earth and then wed the son of the Steward! I cannot believe that it is actually you!"
"I do believe your legend precedes you, Halla." Boromir commented with a proud grin on his face.
"Yes and it's all thanks to you, dearest," Hallahiriel turned to Thaurelda and smiled self-effacingly, "I don't suppose you'd believe I was actually a bawdy barmaid from Dol Amroth and from no noble lineage at all, let alone Elven? I personally thought I was a little too short to be of Elven blood."
Thaurelda nodded in a mystified way, "I can see the Elvish blood, Lady Hallahiriel. You are as fair as I had imagined, but I must say that I did think you to be taller."
Boromir could not help but laugh at the exchange between Hallahiriel and Thaurelda. He had never seen Halla around women her own age, unless Therassa was considered. However, Hallahiriel and Thaurelda seemed to have a rapport, and that comforted him a little to know that his wife may have a new friend. Hallahiriel laughed at Thaurelda's confession and replied, "Indeed, with such tales I can see how one might get that impression."
The seamstress's niece caught a glimpse of Hallahiriel's growing belly and commented, "My aunt has told me of the happy news. Are you here to look for material for the child?"
Hallahiriel nodded, "Aye, Corerith and I are working on blankets at the moment."
Aethlien smiled at her niece and then turned to Hallahiriel, "I shall send Thaurelda tomorrow with the material. I think we have just what you're looking for."
Hallahiriel kept her eyes on the girl, "Would you, Thaurelda? I wouldn't want to burden you with such a task."
"I would be honored, my lady." Thaurelda smiled a bright smile filled with an excited gleam.
Hallahiriel turned to her husband, "Boromir, I appreciate the idea of fresh air. However, I fear that my legs will fall out from beneath me. Is it all right if we return home?"
Boromir nodded and took her by the hand, "Of course, Halla."
As the four visitors turned to leave, they all turned to bid goodbye to Aethlien and her niece. Hallahiriel caught sight of how Faramir's eyes lingered on Thaurelda, and how she in turn averted her eyes elsewhere and a blush speckled across her cheeks. Hallahiriel couldn't help but wear a mysterious smile at the sight. Faramir never talked of women, although he seemed to be high on the list of discussion for ladies and peasant girls alike. Perhaps, Faramir talked of them, but not to Hallahiriel. Perhaps he thought that it was improper subject matter.
"Until tomorrow, Thaurelda. I will call again, Aethlien!" Hallahiriel called to the women as she made her departure from the shop.
~~
As Corerith, Faramir, Boromir and Hallahiriel made their way back home; a sudden crowd had grown outside the gate to the level of the city. Six men on six dark horses appeared amongst the crowd as townsfolk looked on in wonder. Hallahiriel recognized the men as scallywags, reminiscent of some she had served while still a barmaid in her father's tavern.
Boromir and Faramir kept a close watch, wanting no trouble in their city. The crowd parted as a richly dressed man dismounted and made his way up the street. He was dark featured, exquisitely chiseled and commanded attention with his swagger. A dark head emerged from the blacksmith's shop and jetted down the street to meet the mysterious man. It was Therassa.
"Brother!" Therassa called as she ran.
Boromir and Faramir both looked to Hallahiriel and then to each other. A look of shock had fastened on their faces and Hallahiriel's mouth opened with the horror. It was Owynvan. He had returned. Therassa ran into her brother's arms as the crowd watched on. Hallahiriel could see that she had aged but a little and her snake-like features still held true as they did just three years before.
Hallahiriel watched, still completely embedded in shock. Her hands gripped on to Boromir, praying that the brother and sister duo did not see them. Therassa smiled and lead her brother to the door of her home and asked him, "Why have you been away so long, dearest? I have married and mother has moved outside the city in loneliness and shame! Oh, she does long to look upon her son again."
Owynvan smirked proudly, "I have found my fortune outside this city, Therassa. No longer am I the unfledged boy that was played a fool by a woman who scorned me. I am a leader to my men and well known to the lands outside of Gondor. Fate has smiled on me, sister. Now I return home to my family and I long to address the Steward and his sons."
Hallahiriel felt Boromir tense beside her and his face was awash with ire. He stepped forward, leaving Hallahiriel with Corerith and Faramir to follow him. Boromir looked fearless and called to the wayfarer, "And why should we hold counsel with you?"
Owynvan raised an eyebrow and saw Boromir and Faramir standing formidably to his left. He rested a hand on the hilt of his sword and walked closer to his former rival. Owynvan eyed Boromir and Faramir curiously, for he had been waiting for this moment since the day he left Minas Tirith three years before; "Ah, Lord Boromir, the city's shining son! It has been long since "
"Do not weave your words around me, for I will not be fooled. Save the pleasantries, Owynvan and tell us your intention here." Boromir spoke sternly and assuredly as the crowd stood riveted.
Owynvan smiled smugly, "I assure you, my lord, I mean no trouble. I return home to see my mother and sister and to provide shelter and food for my men. I have brought news that will be music to your father's ears and for the good of the land."
"And what news is this?" Faramir spoke up in a strong tone.
Owynvan laughed, "All in good time, Lord Faramir! Surely such discussions should not be played out in the public eye. It reminds me of my blundered nuptials to that lovely and deceiving barmaid. Tell me how fares the lady in question? Where can I find Hallahiriel?"
Boromir fought the urge to look over his shoulder at Hallahiriel and hissed in a menacing way, "My wife is of no concern to you."
Hallahiriel wanted no more than to disappear from the scene and wished Owynvan to scurry back under the rock from where he came. She pulled the cloak protectively around her belly in hopes to hide herself and her unborn child. Owynvan looked surprised at Boromir's news, "So she took up your proposal? I thought that she would've ran off to Dol Amroth and the comfort of her father's tavern."
Boromir clenched his fists and growled coolly, "It would be in your best interest, Owynvan, not to seek trouble. For if you have ill intentions concerning Hallahiriel, then you will certainly find it."
"I assure you, my lord, no ill will come to the lady." Owynvan said with wicked glimmer in his eyes.
Boromir and Faramir exchanged glances, knowing that Owynvan's ill will would be directed at Boromir. Faramir nodded to the man, "We will be ready when you come to call, Owynvan. I daresay I am interested in what news you have."
Owynvan looked on sternly with Therassa at his side and watched as the brothers walked off to where he laid eyes on Hallahiriel. She looked the same, if not more bewitching than the first time he laid eyes on her. The news that she had wed Lord Boromir made her even more beguiling. Of course, his original intentions upon coming back to the city were to win her completely with his new found power and fortune, thinking that she had been stymied by the events that occurred the night that he left. He never thought that Hallahiriel and the son of the Steward were actually in love.
Owynvan took his sister's arm and watched as Hallahiriel clung to her husband, looking utterly terrified at the events that had transpired. Somewhere inside him an odd thrill passed through his body. He would have much to consider tonight and a lot of new plans to make.
~~
When they arrived to the hall, Corerith took their cloaks and went to the kitchen to oversee the process of making supper. Hallahiriel stood frozen by the fire, tears streaming down her cheeks. Owynvan's voice stalked her ears with the way he threatened Boromir and how he promised he would not hurt her, but would go after her husband instead.
Boromir approached her cautiously from behind and wrapped his arms around her shoulders. He pressed his mouth to her ear and spoke in a comforting tone, "I do not fear that half-witted boy, Halla. He only came back to regain what little respect he had three years ago. He may look for revenge, but will not succeed. He means only to prove himself, however, I fear he is not ready for the challenge."
Hallahiriel felt their child kick and felt a little stronger. She dried her eyes and turned around to face her husband, "I do not fear him, honestly. I only wish he would've never come back."
"Indeed, I feel the same. We shall keep eyes on him. I will not have him wreak havoc on the city, as mediocre as it may be." Boromir laid a kiss on her furrowed brow and turned to his brother, "I am going to speak to father, Faramir. Make him aware of Owynvan and his rapscallion men."
Faramir nodded and Boromir brushed his lips against Hallahiriel's before making his way to Denethor's study. Faramir watched as Hallahiriel fell into the chair beside his own and he sat up a little taller in the seat. She sighed and turned to him, "Tell me, brother. How did Owynvan come into his fortune?"
Faramir looked grimly at her and shrugged, "By the looks of Owynvan and his men, I should think that he became a mercenary."
"As I thought." Hallahiriel looked into the burning embers of the fire and marveled at how much had changed since they went out past the courtyard. Her thoughts turned to Aethlien's niece. Thaurelda brought hope to Hallahiriel in the respect that she could find a sort of friendship with her. She relied heavily on Boromir, Faramir and Corerith for her companionship and while they gave to her wholeheartedly, she could not help but feel that she burdened them more than she should.
"I am looking forward to Thaurelda's visit tomorrow. I cannot help but feel a kinship with her. She is a lovely girl." Hallahiriel eyed her brother-in-law casually and waited for his response.
Faramir smiled a little wistfully and nodded, "She is indeed."
Hallahiriel let her curiosity get the better of her and she spoke quickly, "Why do you never speak of women around me, Faramir? Do you find that it is inappropriate conversation around me? You know you can speak to me about anything, I have quite a sympathetic ear."
Faramir looked taken aback and smiled at Hallahiriel's curiosity, "I really don't speak about it at all, Halla. Not even to Boromir."
"Have you ever been in love?" Hallahiriel inquired.
Faramir shook his head, "No, I don't believe so. What brought this interrogation on by the way?"
Hallahiriel smiled faintly, "I saw the way you looked at Thaurelda this afternoon and how she in turn reacted to you."
Faramir leaned his chair a little closer to Hallahiriel and questioned, "How did she react?"
"Quite favorably, I should say." Hallahiriel rested her hands on her stomach and looked a little secretive.
~~
A/N: Up next Thaurelda and Halla become kindred spirits, Owynvan shows up again and Boromir and Halla talk about names. For all of you Faramir/Eowyn shipper's: never fear, Thaurelda won't screw up the canon or the F/E lovin'. I wouldn't allow it. Thaurelda is merely Faramir's flirtation with the idea of love and in no way is she going to be his greatest or only one. I am also taking ideas for baby names!
Shout-outs as follows: Michaela 90 I'm glad you like Halla, she is very dear to me! Stay tuned! Big surprises on the way! Whizzothecrunchyfrog Here's another shoutout! Thanks for the support! Oracle10 Owynvan is back...with an extreme make over! However, I plan on him still "spewing poetry." Integrate_cos2x Both Boromir and Halla will show their old selves, as seen in this chapter. Although, marriage ultimately agrees with them. Angel of Harlem Darker, yes; and darker to come. How about "Grace," "The Sweetest Thing," "Two Hearts Beat as One" or "Dancing Barefoot"? They might be good themes! Simply Sara Here's to you, sweets! Glad you could come back for this story! Yeah, Denethor being a little mad was an understatement on my part. I'll keep you notified on updates! Khelia I made this chappie longer just for you! I hope you enjoy it! Thanks for the kind words! Spaci Ireth Very insightful, young padawan! But I'll never tell. I'll only say...yep.
The story is set in 3011, seven years before "Fellowship." Boromir is 33 and Faramir is 28. Hallahiriel happens to be 26.
The Continuing Story of Hallahiriel, the Former Barmaid of Dol tormented
By Leah Pensotti
Chapter Three: Fortune's Fool and Prodigal Son
Hallahiriel inwardly fumed at the news that her husband would be leaving for Rohan in a matter of weeks. She tied her hair back awkwardly and avoided his eyes, for she thought that she may rip them out. Boromir watched her intensely and saw that she was very unhappy.
"It's my duty, Halla. I must go." Boromir stated simply. His wife sat with her back to him on their bed and sighed. She felt like crying again, but was filled with too much anger to do so.
"How long will you be gone?" Hallahiriel already knew the answer, but asked the question anyway. Her shoulders slumped slightly and she waited for the inevitable.
"For at least a month." Boromir saw Hallahiriel shut her eyes and fight back the raging emotions brewing in her mind. She silently ticked off the time in her head and felt heartbroken at the circumstances.
She turned to Boromir slowly with a caustic look on her face, "I will have passed my eighth month when you will arrive home. Are you certain you will make it in time?"
"My father assures me I will be home before then." Boromir took her hand gently and tried to appease her anger. Hallahiriel jerked her hand away quickly and stood before him with a furious look on her face. What did his father know about carrying and delivering a child? Her hands rested on her stomach protectively and she chose her words very carefully.
"Tell me, husband, what will happen if our child arrives early? I assure you that it's not unheard of." Hallahiriel fired at him. It had been sometime since they exchanged words, however, Hallahiriel thought that the moment at hand was fully substantiated. Boromir looked surprised and rose slowly from the bed with a stern look on his face.
"Well, if it isn't the saucy barmaid I once knew, rearing her head again. It's been awhile since I have seen this side of the well-tempered Halla." Boromir chuckled in a sightly cold manner.
Hallahiriel clenched her fists tightly and flush rose into her cheeks, "And you are still the arrogant man that you were. Has it never occurred to you, Boromir, that I may need you here? I am lonely and my days are long. You have been away three months so far this year. I am scared to death about giving birth to our child and I want you to be there! I am more confident when you are around. What if something happens to me, or to the child and you are not here? What if something happens to you? Tell me that I do not have a reason or the right to be angry about the situation!"
Tears formed in the corners of her eyes and her body trembled. Boromir saw how fearful she truly was and knew that she had every reason to be angry. He did not wish to leave her and he would not have her worry about him; Boromir knew she was lonely when he and Faramir were away and for that he felt guilty to speak to her so. He pulled her to his chest, clung to her tightly and kissed her hair on the top of her head.
"I understand why you are angry, Halla, but I must go. I will be home in time for our child to be born, and if I am not I will instruct Faramir to send word to me and I will return home as soon as I can. I want more than anything to help you through it."
Hallahiriel looked up at him uncertainly, "Faramir is not going with you?"
Boromir nodded and sighed, "Father bids me to go to Rohan alone. Faramir will be here with you."
Hallahiriel rested her cheek near his shoulder and sighed. She found a little more comfort in this news and ultimately ended up worrying about Faramir. She did not wish to burden him with her strange mood shifts and everything else that comes with pregnancy. Boromir pulled away slowly and held her at arms length.
"Come, let's have breakfast and ask Faramir and Corerith to come into the city with us. We can go to Aethlien's shop and see if she has anything suitable for the nursery. It is a fine fall day, Halla. It will do you good to venture outside the courtyard."
Hallahiriel looked stunned, "But I look terrible."
Boromir could not help but chuckle, "Nonsense! I shall go get Corerith and she will help you get ready."
Before she had the chance to argue, Boromir kissed her quickly and made his way out the door. Hallahiriel then sat on the bed and dreaded the adventure to come.
~~
After Corerith dressed Hallahiriel in a fine blue-black dress she had altered, she twisted the top of her red-gold hair back away from her face in an ornate fashion and fastened the blue and silver necklace that she had first worn to Imrahil's about her neck. Corerith smiled at her handiwork and asked in a sweet manner, "How do you feel now, Halla?"
She looked the mirror and shrugged, "I feel like one of the Mumakil of Harad in a fine dress. Gigantic and uncomfortable."
"Well, you look absolutely lovely, dear." Corerith brushed off the remark good naturedly and wrapped a grey cloak around Hallahiriel and ushered her out the door.
When they arrived downstairs, Boromir smiled at the sight of Hallahiriel dressed regally and offered his arm to her. Hallahiriel accepted his arm silently and looked to Faramir, who had just entered the room. Faramir smiled and nodded, "Are we ready to go?"
Hallahiriel shrugged and looked to Corerith and Boromir who merely confirmed the answer with smiles. As they made their way to gates into the city, Hallahiriel called to her husband, "Boromir?"
Boromir looked to her and answered, "Yes, love?"
"Is this a feeble attempt to make me feel better?" Hallahiriel raised an eyebrow to him suspiciously and waited for his answer.
Boromir exhaled softly, "Why? Is it not working?"
"No."
"Well then, I suppose it could be called feeble." Boromir smiled in spite of himself and Hallahiriel chuckled in a knowing way. She clutched onto his arm and allowed the early autumn air to fill her lungs. It was a nice day, Boromir was right about that.
It was a well-known fact that the eldest son of the Steward and his young wife were expecting a child. However, few had seen Hallahiriel since the news came upon the city. So when Boromir, Faramir and Hallahiriel were seen on the street that day, people all over the city stuck their heads outside their windows and doors and watched from their carts and businesses. All of the faces she saw wore happy smiles, but they didn't make her any less uncomfortable.
Boromir, Faramir, Corerith and Hallahiriel entered the seamstress' shop and waited patiently until Aethlien hobbled out into plain view. The poor woman had aged quite a bit in the past three years, falling ill frequently and Hallahiriel had not been able to help her in the past few months as she had wanted to. Aethlien squinted her old eyes and called out in an excited manner, "Halla, my girl! Is that you?"
Hallahiriel smiled warmly, she was very happy to see Aethlien, "Indeed it is. How are you Lady Aethlien?"
She bent down and hugged the seamstress to her and Aethlien replied, "I am old and pitiful, Halla, let me get a closer look at you."
Hallahiriel lowered her face to Aethlien and she patted her cheek lovingly, "As pretty as ever. And nearly due! You are sure to deliver within a month!"
"Actually, only a little less than three months." Hallahiriel stated and caught the look that Corerith sent her. Aethlien looked baffled and studied the girl a little closer.
"Well, my sight is failing me," she moved closer to Boromir and patted him on the shoulder, "It is good to see you back in the city, Lord Boromir."
He smiled and nodded, "Indeed it is, Lady Aethlien."
The old seamstress walked over to Faramir and smiled, "And how do things fare for you, Lord Faramir?"
Faramir chuckled, "I am well, very well."
"Such handsome men!" Aethlien commented loudly and shook her head. Hallahiriel chuckled as she saw both her husband and her brother-in-law stand a little taller with the complement. She looked around the shop and noticed that it was in very good order. The best she had seen it look in two years.
"Aethlien, the shop looks wonderful!"
The seamstress turned around and smiled, "I've had help in the past month. My niece, Thaurelda from Lamedon has come to stay with me. She's a sweet girl, around your age. Would you like to meet her?"
Hallahiriel nodded curiously, "Yes, I would like it very much."
"Thaurelda! Come down stairs! We have guests that I would like you to meet!" Aethlien called loudly.
Hallahiriel looked to Boromir, took his hand and shrugged. Suddenly, a thin frame hurried down the stairs and came to a halt beside the seamstress. Hallahiriel looked at the young woman and smiled. Thaurelda was more than a few inches taller than Hallahiriel and had long black hair that was pulled back away from her face. Her skin was lightly tanned and there were a few freckles across her nose. Her eyes burned a nervous green- brown, her full lips were pulled into a smile and she wore a dress that was a deep shade of green. Hallahiriel deemed her to be quite beautiful and very tall.
Aethlien nodded to her guests, "Thaurelda dear, I wish to introduce you to the sons of the Steward; Lord Boromir and Lord Faramir."
Thaurelda curtsied and gave an embarrassed smile, "My lords."
Hallahiriel caught the fleeting look on the girl's face as she met eyes with Faramir and repressed a light giggle that almost escaped her lips. Aethlien nodded to the women, "This is Corerith, she keeps the Stewards house and this young woman is Lady Hallahiriel, Lord Boromir's wife. She is a very good friend to me."
Thaurelda looked to Hallahiriel in awe and curtsied again, "My lady, I have heard so much about you! Not only from my aunt, but from my home in Lamedon! People still tell their children the story of the mysterious princess from Elven lineage that went to Prince Imrahil's ball and caught the fancy of every eligible man in Middle-Earth and then wed the son of the Steward! I cannot believe that it is actually you!"
"I do believe your legend precedes you, Halla." Boromir commented with a proud grin on his face.
"Yes and it's all thanks to you, dearest," Hallahiriel turned to Thaurelda and smiled self-effacingly, "I don't suppose you'd believe I was actually a bawdy barmaid from Dol Amroth and from no noble lineage at all, let alone Elven? I personally thought I was a little too short to be of Elven blood."
Thaurelda nodded in a mystified way, "I can see the Elvish blood, Lady Hallahiriel. You are as fair as I had imagined, but I must say that I did think you to be taller."
Boromir could not help but laugh at the exchange between Hallahiriel and Thaurelda. He had never seen Halla around women her own age, unless Therassa was considered. However, Hallahiriel and Thaurelda seemed to have a rapport, and that comforted him a little to know that his wife may have a new friend. Hallahiriel laughed at Thaurelda's confession and replied, "Indeed, with such tales I can see how one might get that impression."
The seamstress's niece caught a glimpse of Hallahiriel's growing belly and commented, "My aunt has told me of the happy news. Are you here to look for material for the child?"
Hallahiriel nodded, "Aye, Corerith and I are working on blankets at the moment."
Aethlien smiled at her niece and then turned to Hallahiriel, "I shall send Thaurelda tomorrow with the material. I think we have just what you're looking for."
Hallahiriel kept her eyes on the girl, "Would you, Thaurelda? I wouldn't want to burden you with such a task."
"I would be honored, my lady." Thaurelda smiled a bright smile filled with an excited gleam.
Hallahiriel turned to her husband, "Boromir, I appreciate the idea of fresh air. However, I fear that my legs will fall out from beneath me. Is it all right if we return home?"
Boromir nodded and took her by the hand, "Of course, Halla."
As the four visitors turned to leave, they all turned to bid goodbye to Aethlien and her niece. Hallahiriel caught sight of how Faramir's eyes lingered on Thaurelda, and how she in turn averted her eyes elsewhere and a blush speckled across her cheeks. Hallahiriel couldn't help but wear a mysterious smile at the sight. Faramir never talked of women, although he seemed to be high on the list of discussion for ladies and peasant girls alike. Perhaps, Faramir talked of them, but not to Hallahiriel. Perhaps he thought that it was improper subject matter.
"Until tomorrow, Thaurelda. I will call again, Aethlien!" Hallahiriel called to the women as she made her departure from the shop.
~~
As Corerith, Faramir, Boromir and Hallahiriel made their way back home; a sudden crowd had grown outside the gate to the level of the city. Six men on six dark horses appeared amongst the crowd as townsfolk looked on in wonder. Hallahiriel recognized the men as scallywags, reminiscent of some she had served while still a barmaid in her father's tavern.
Boromir and Faramir kept a close watch, wanting no trouble in their city. The crowd parted as a richly dressed man dismounted and made his way up the street. He was dark featured, exquisitely chiseled and commanded attention with his swagger. A dark head emerged from the blacksmith's shop and jetted down the street to meet the mysterious man. It was Therassa.
"Brother!" Therassa called as she ran.
Boromir and Faramir both looked to Hallahiriel and then to each other. A look of shock had fastened on their faces and Hallahiriel's mouth opened with the horror. It was Owynvan. He had returned. Therassa ran into her brother's arms as the crowd watched on. Hallahiriel could see that she had aged but a little and her snake-like features still held true as they did just three years before.
Hallahiriel watched, still completely embedded in shock. Her hands gripped on to Boromir, praying that the brother and sister duo did not see them. Therassa smiled and lead her brother to the door of her home and asked him, "Why have you been away so long, dearest? I have married and mother has moved outside the city in loneliness and shame! Oh, she does long to look upon her son again."
Owynvan smirked proudly, "I have found my fortune outside this city, Therassa. No longer am I the unfledged boy that was played a fool by a woman who scorned me. I am a leader to my men and well known to the lands outside of Gondor. Fate has smiled on me, sister. Now I return home to my family and I long to address the Steward and his sons."
Hallahiriel felt Boromir tense beside her and his face was awash with ire. He stepped forward, leaving Hallahiriel with Corerith and Faramir to follow him. Boromir looked fearless and called to the wayfarer, "And why should we hold counsel with you?"
Owynvan raised an eyebrow and saw Boromir and Faramir standing formidably to his left. He rested a hand on the hilt of his sword and walked closer to his former rival. Owynvan eyed Boromir and Faramir curiously, for he had been waiting for this moment since the day he left Minas Tirith three years before; "Ah, Lord Boromir, the city's shining son! It has been long since "
"Do not weave your words around me, for I will not be fooled. Save the pleasantries, Owynvan and tell us your intention here." Boromir spoke sternly and assuredly as the crowd stood riveted.
Owynvan smiled smugly, "I assure you, my lord, I mean no trouble. I return home to see my mother and sister and to provide shelter and food for my men. I have brought news that will be music to your father's ears and for the good of the land."
"And what news is this?" Faramir spoke up in a strong tone.
Owynvan laughed, "All in good time, Lord Faramir! Surely such discussions should not be played out in the public eye. It reminds me of my blundered nuptials to that lovely and deceiving barmaid. Tell me how fares the lady in question? Where can I find Hallahiriel?"
Boromir fought the urge to look over his shoulder at Hallahiriel and hissed in a menacing way, "My wife is of no concern to you."
Hallahiriel wanted no more than to disappear from the scene and wished Owynvan to scurry back under the rock from where he came. She pulled the cloak protectively around her belly in hopes to hide herself and her unborn child. Owynvan looked surprised at Boromir's news, "So she took up your proposal? I thought that she would've ran off to Dol Amroth and the comfort of her father's tavern."
Boromir clenched his fists and growled coolly, "It would be in your best interest, Owynvan, not to seek trouble. For if you have ill intentions concerning Hallahiriel, then you will certainly find it."
"I assure you, my lord, no ill will come to the lady." Owynvan said with wicked glimmer in his eyes.
Boromir and Faramir exchanged glances, knowing that Owynvan's ill will would be directed at Boromir. Faramir nodded to the man, "We will be ready when you come to call, Owynvan. I daresay I am interested in what news you have."
Owynvan looked on sternly with Therassa at his side and watched as the brothers walked off to where he laid eyes on Hallahiriel. She looked the same, if not more bewitching than the first time he laid eyes on her. The news that she had wed Lord Boromir made her even more beguiling. Of course, his original intentions upon coming back to the city were to win her completely with his new found power and fortune, thinking that she had been stymied by the events that occurred the night that he left. He never thought that Hallahiriel and the son of the Steward were actually in love.
Owynvan took his sister's arm and watched as Hallahiriel clung to her husband, looking utterly terrified at the events that had transpired. Somewhere inside him an odd thrill passed through his body. He would have much to consider tonight and a lot of new plans to make.
~~
When they arrived to the hall, Corerith took their cloaks and went to the kitchen to oversee the process of making supper. Hallahiriel stood frozen by the fire, tears streaming down her cheeks. Owynvan's voice stalked her ears with the way he threatened Boromir and how he promised he would not hurt her, but would go after her husband instead.
Boromir approached her cautiously from behind and wrapped his arms around her shoulders. He pressed his mouth to her ear and spoke in a comforting tone, "I do not fear that half-witted boy, Halla. He only came back to regain what little respect he had three years ago. He may look for revenge, but will not succeed. He means only to prove himself, however, I fear he is not ready for the challenge."
Hallahiriel felt their child kick and felt a little stronger. She dried her eyes and turned around to face her husband, "I do not fear him, honestly. I only wish he would've never come back."
"Indeed, I feel the same. We shall keep eyes on him. I will not have him wreak havoc on the city, as mediocre as it may be." Boromir laid a kiss on her furrowed brow and turned to his brother, "I am going to speak to father, Faramir. Make him aware of Owynvan and his rapscallion men."
Faramir nodded and Boromir brushed his lips against Hallahiriel's before making his way to Denethor's study. Faramir watched as Hallahiriel fell into the chair beside his own and he sat up a little taller in the seat. She sighed and turned to him, "Tell me, brother. How did Owynvan come into his fortune?"
Faramir looked grimly at her and shrugged, "By the looks of Owynvan and his men, I should think that he became a mercenary."
"As I thought." Hallahiriel looked into the burning embers of the fire and marveled at how much had changed since they went out past the courtyard. Her thoughts turned to Aethlien's niece. Thaurelda brought hope to Hallahiriel in the respect that she could find a sort of friendship with her. She relied heavily on Boromir, Faramir and Corerith for her companionship and while they gave to her wholeheartedly, she could not help but feel that she burdened them more than she should.
"I am looking forward to Thaurelda's visit tomorrow. I cannot help but feel a kinship with her. She is a lovely girl." Hallahiriel eyed her brother-in-law casually and waited for his response.
Faramir smiled a little wistfully and nodded, "She is indeed."
Hallahiriel let her curiosity get the better of her and she spoke quickly, "Why do you never speak of women around me, Faramir? Do you find that it is inappropriate conversation around me? You know you can speak to me about anything, I have quite a sympathetic ear."
Faramir looked taken aback and smiled at Hallahiriel's curiosity, "I really don't speak about it at all, Halla. Not even to Boromir."
"Have you ever been in love?" Hallahiriel inquired.
Faramir shook his head, "No, I don't believe so. What brought this interrogation on by the way?"
Hallahiriel smiled faintly, "I saw the way you looked at Thaurelda this afternoon and how she in turn reacted to you."
Faramir leaned his chair a little closer to Hallahiriel and questioned, "How did she react?"
"Quite favorably, I should say." Hallahiriel rested her hands on her stomach and looked a little secretive.
~~
A/N: Up next Thaurelda and Halla become kindred spirits, Owynvan shows up again and Boromir and Halla talk about names. For all of you Faramir/Eowyn shipper's: never fear, Thaurelda won't screw up the canon or the F/E lovin'. I wouldn't allow it. Thaurelda is merely Faramir's flirtation with the idea of love and in no way is she going to be his greatest or only one. I am also taking ideas for baby names!
Shout-outs as follows: Michaela 90 I'm glad you like Halla, she is very dear to me! Stay tuned! Big surprises on the way! Whizzothecrunchyfrog Here's another shoutout! Thanks for the support! Oracle10 Owynvan is back...with an extreme make over! However, I plan on him still "spewing poetry." Integrate_cos2x Both Boromir and Halla will show their old selves, as seen in this chapter. Although, marriage ultimately agrees with them. Angel of Harlem Darker, yes; and darker to come. How about "Grace," "The Sweetest Thing," "Two Hearts Beat as One" or "Dancing Barefoot"? They might be good themes! Simply Sara Here's to you, sweets! Glad you could come back for this story! Yeah, Denethor being a little mad was an understatement on my part. I'll keep you notified on updates! Khelia I made this chappie longer just for you! I hope you enjoy it! Thanks for the kind words! Spaci Ireth Very insightful, young padawan! But I'll never tell. I'll only say...yep.