Disclaimer: Don't own it. Never have, never will.
A/N: Okay, well, it's been a while. Don't kill me! That is, if anybody is still interested. I hope you enjoy this chapter.
Children of Men
Chapter Eight
"Lauriel!" the twin princesses exclaimed in delight as they invaded the chamber of the Steward's daughter. Nearly two years had past since their last visit, not counting brief meetings that were not enough to satisfy either party. However, the Steward and his family were resolved to stay in Minas Tirith until after Lauriel's coming of age, which was a full two months away! Afterwards, the family would go to Rohan, as is custom, to allow suitors there to vie for the attention of the newly of-age maiden, a princess of that land in her own right. Éomer, along with his family, would escort them there. The royal family of Rohan was, of course, obligated to be at both events, even if they did not want to be. However, because the king could not be away for a full two-month period, it was agreed that Éomer would return to Rohan alone for a month after the twins' ceremony, the reason for their early coming, before coming back for Lauriel's.
The three girls were resolved to spend this time together and make the most of it, because they knew that once they were all of age, things were bound to change, especially in who they were allowed to consort with. To be specific, they would not be allowed to freely associate with any man that was not a blood relative.
Eldarion, Turgon, and Elfwine were well aware of the stipulations that would be placed on the three, and were fully prepared to make sure that their last days of freedom were enjoyably occupied. Although these terms were rather silly, especially considering how they had been raised practically as siblings— practically, of course, not entirely, as evident by the feelings each had been nursing to themselves— they all realized that they must be abided, if only to appease the trappings of court formalities.
"It has been ages!" Elenwë stated, embracing her friend. "How have you been?"
Lauriel smiled. "I have been very well. And how have the two of you been?"
"Do not ask us that, Lauriel, for you have not been around our father and brother as of late," Elwing said. "They have been a nightmare. They do not seem to be taking our coming of age very well."
"I imagine that you will receive the same treatment from Lord Faramir and Turgon once you come of age!" Elenwë laughed.
"Probably Uncle Éomer and Elfwine as well," Lauriel said morbidly.
OoooOoooOoooO
The night of the long-awaited event finally came. After a speech from Aragorn that ended with all the young men in the crowd being somewhat afraid to approach the princesses. However, when the dancing started, they lost their reserves and the twins spent the evening in the arms of far too many suitors to count.
Unfortunately, the two the most wanted to dance with only danced with them once. Both were discouraged by this, although each dealt with it different ways. Elenwë compensated by dancing with as many men as possible, flirting with each and making them fall head over heels for her. Elwing, on the other hand, declined nearly all men, resolving then and there that if the only man worth having would not have her, no man would.
OoooOoooOoooO
"Why did you not tell Elwing of your feelings?" Turgon asked his cousin after they had both left the festivities.
"She had the look of King Elessar going into battle. I was afraid," Elfwine replied.
"Right," Turgon sarcastically said.
"Truthfully? I was afraid. Afraid that she would not want me. Her only feelings for me are those towards an older brother. Besides, did you see the way she looked at every man who attempted to ask for her hand?"
"She didn't give you that look," Turgon pointed out.
"Nor did she give it to you or Eldarion."
"She wasn't looking at us like she was looking at you."
"Don't give me encouragement where none is warranted. Besides, I don't recall you telling Elenwë how you feel."
His cousin sighed at that. "How could I possibly think that she would ever look at me that way? She is a princess of Gondor and Arnor. I am merely the heir to her father's Steward."
"Do not speak thusly about your house. The Hurins are a very noble family. And let us not forget that you have the royal blood of Rohan in your veins. Besides, you are the highest ranking suitable man in Gondor. Don't sell yourself short."
And those this conversation was taken to the hearts of both gentlemen, neither could hope that each other's words were truth. However, the conversation was overheard by another, who knew that each word rang true. And he felt that he could use this to his advantage.
Tbc…
This chapter was an awkward one to write. I hope it came out okay.
