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The Coldest Winter (R) Print

Written by Geale

09 January 2009 | 77501 words

Chapter 2 – Freezing

“I am sorry, my lord. It seems there is not much I can do at the moment.”

The blond healer appeared sincere as he apologised for his shortcomings. Or perhaps that was the wrong choice of word since Aragorn from the beginning had been told the prospects were not that great.

“There are some other herbs that might ease your pain more efficiently, but they are sent to us from Rivendell, and in this weather…” The healer gestured to the window and shrugged.

Aragorn followed his gaze. He was seated on a high bed – it made it easier for him to rise that way – but it did not matter from which angle you looked out the window. All there was to see was a thick, white mist: it was snowing. The never-abating wind brought along masses of snow, with which it attacked the City vigorously.

His fate, Aragorn could manage; his legs would not get much better if the healers did not come up with a brilliant new cure. That was not what was bothering him now. No, with all this snow, he had not set foot outside the palace walls for weeks and for a former ranger, that was both stressful and wearying at the same time. He felt cabined, weak and useless.

The healer had turned his back to him and was currently rummaging around in his cabinets. Eventually he produced a small glass jar which he presented to the King.

“This might help you, my lord. The leaves are dried, but soak them in lukewarm water for about an hour before you got to bed. Place them on your legs, where the pain is most intense, and make sure they stay put all night. I trust you lie still when you sleep?” he finished.

Aragorn gave the dried, crumpled leaves in the jar a doubting look. Then he raised his eyes to the healer.

“I do not move while sleeping. But then, I do not have much of a choice.” he said, much sterner than he had intended.

The healer simply cleared his throat. “I am sorry, my lord, I did not mean to offend you.”

“It is fine,” Aragorn told him. He accepted the jar and slowly got to his feet. “Thank you,” he added, raising the jar a little in some sort of half-hearted sign of gratitude He exited the room and closed the door behind him.

He rested against the wall for a little while, gathering his strength. It was with mixed feelings he was getting used to his situation. Because he did need to get used to it – that was certainly clear enough. Of course, he had been forced to get used to many things in his past, so nowadays he was accustomed to it. He was a Man, raised among Elves, a race he respected deeply. He had adapted to their way of living, before he had been forced to realise he was a man after all. Then, he had been told he was the heir of Isildur and must come to terms with that. He fought in the War, and now he was King. He really had no choice, did he?


That night, when Aragorn lay in his bed with cold, wet leaves on his legs, he longed for his family. Like a child, he wanted his father close. Elrond would know what to do. He would know what to say and how to react. He would know… how to feel.

Feelings…

… were difficult.

Feelings came unbidden and uninvited. Feelings stirred memories and awoke hidden dreams; they did not care whether you were awake or not. Feelings regarding a great many things, Aragorn reflected. There were matters of state to deal with… and of course this constant snowing. Also, servants and friends and family and – others. People in general; there were always a lot to think about, things that stirred up feelings…

Aragorn let out a heavy sigh. Who was he fooling? He turned his head to the other side. In the darkness – he had blown out the candle – he could barely make out the curtains covering the windows. Somewhere out there, in the icy cold, was Faramir, peacefully sleeping – hopefully – in a tent – hopefully – sheltered – hopefully – from the wind. It had been his own doing of course, since Aragorn would never have sent him out on one of those necessary missions. Aragorn had been told by one of Faramir’s men the next morning, which was the day after that night – the night that had ended so abruptly after such a promising beginning. Six days ago. And it was Aragorn’s fault.

It was his fault for being so damn proud! For so long he had held back, not daring to open up to the Steward because he himself was so much less than before. Sure, it was obvious to everyone who met him that he walked with difficulty and was in pain during most of his waking hours, but they, they were – others.

Faramir would see, truly see him, for what he was, and he would touch him – touch him in places no one had touched him for months. Not since the last time, in the tavern after several glasses of wine, and later, when they ended up in the same narrow bed together in the soldier’s quarters.

“No place for a soon-to-be-King,” Faramir had said in a moment of sobriety, excusing his simple lodgings. The soon-to-be-King himself could not have cared less. The War had been won, Sauron was defeated and this was a night of freedom. Any bed would suffice, and it did. It was their first and only night together.

Aragorn closed his eyes, trying to shut everything out where he lay now. He concentrated on his breathing, focusing on his legs, using his healer skills to search for pain, or lack of pain, which would be nice for a change. The leaves were still damp and they felt sticky against his skin. He had forgotten to ask the healer if he could cover his legs with a blanket and so risking dislodging every leaf he so carefully had placed there.

A sudden image of Legolas, his elven friend and companion on the Quest, and later in the War, surfaced in his mind. Legolas would laugh at him, not maliciously, but indeed he would laugh – at the whole situation. He would most probably tease him as well.

Grunting, Aragorn reached for the covers, pulled them over himself and decided he needed to go to sleep. Immediately.


The following days dragged on in a haze. The weather changed again; the winds brought no more snow, instead the temperature dropped even lower. The sun itself, in the few moments it appeared between thick, light grey clouds, seemed dimmed, almost frozen. It offered light, but no warmth, and certainly there was no promise of spring in the air.

Travelling became a little less dangerous so the amount of letters Aragorn received increased somewhat. There were no other visitors though, except for the messengers, for it was clear that this winter was unpredictable. And there was no sign of Faramir returning to Minas Tirith.

Aragorn mostly spent his days and nights alone. He cared not for company of any sort, and he cursed the leaves he still soaked and placed on his legs before he fell asleep. He could not tell if they helped, but he could tell he was feeling utterly miserable.


He returned four days later, when evening had already fallen. Noise and clamour from the courtyard below, called Aragorn, who was in his office again, to the window. Stumbling, he got to his feet, not wanting or daring to hope. He saw the horses in the torch lit courtyard, and he let out a sigh of relief when he spotted the Steward, who looked unharmed, among the other men. Faramir exchanged words with the guards, entered through the great doors and then he was out of sight, as suddenly as he had appeared. So very far away, he seemed. Agonisingly distant.

Hesitancy and indecision occupied his mind to such an extent, that this time Aragorn did not hear the footfall in the corridor. Therefore he was startled, and spun around faster than his legs really permitted, when the door flew open and Faramir himself burst into the room.

The two men stood facing each other in silence. Faramir was panting, as if he had been running, and he was staring intently at his King. All of a sudden, he moved, and with a few steps he was so close Aragorn could not have averted his eyes even if he wanted to. Then, Faramir’s lips were on his, crushing them with strength Aragorn would never have guessed him capable of.

It was cold, he registered; the Steward’s lips, having been exposed to harsh wintry winds, were stiff. They soon grew warmer though, as he pressed them against Aragorn’s own. Not waiting for anything, Faramir forced Aragorn’s lips apart with his tongue, thrusting deep into the warmth he found there.

He leaned in closer, placing his hands on Aragorn’s shoulders, making the King stand with his back against the chilly window-glass. Aragorn really did not mind too much, but he needed to speak, to say something… anything… apologise. He tried to pull his mouth away, but he had no room to move. It was Faramir who spoke instead:

“There will be no words, my lord,” he stated in a deep voice, after drawing back ever so slightly. “We will not speak. At all.”

Yes, he was quite determined.

NB: Please do not distribute (by any means, including email) or repost this story (including translations) without the author's prior permission. [ more ]

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51 Comment(s)

OMG—all I can say is WOW

— Liv    Saturday 19 July 2008, 14:29    #

Started to read a chapter or two and read eight chapters! I love the variety of emotions they experience as the story progresses.

— trixie    Wednesday 23 July 2008, 5:13    #

Thank you for reading and liking! Makes me very, very happy!

— Geale    Wednesday 23 July 2008, 8:48    #

Love the turn this story has taken: very different from the usual and yet very credible within the context you have created for the two of them!

— Ebbingnight    Wednesday 13 August 2008, 21:44    #

Still reading and enjoying. Absolutely love the interaction between the two of them!
I do believe poor Faramir thinks more than I do ;)

— trixie    Thursday 14 August 2008, 17:55    #

Thank you, thank you!
Hehe, yes, our dear Faramir certainly has an active mind. The story continues… I don’t seem to have the heart to end it, so please, do continue reading! :)

— Geale    Thursday 14 August 2008, 19:40    #

I so often see this pairing portrayed in a way that makes it seem like they are in a relationship because it is convenient. That or Aragorn tolerates Faramir’s adoration.
It makes me so happy to read a story where they are so clearly in love!

— trixie    Thursday 28 August 2008, 15:30    #

OMG! JERK! how do you just go whacking the king i hope faramir kicks deren’s ass next chapter coz we all know that he’s the one who did it.

magos    Friday 12 September 2008, 18:10    #

Haha! Instead of writing another chapter, I should just send you over to Minas Tirith to straigthen things out! ;)

— Geale    Friday 12 September 2008, 18:28    #

This is fantastic! It’s been quite a while since I hit a ‘TBC’ and actually groaned aloud. :P You’ve got a real talent – thank you so much!

— Lasselanta    Tuesday 21 October 2008, 5:29    #

Gods, thank YOU! I don’t know exactly what made you groan, but it must have been the lo-ve-ly Deren! ;) Have faith, all of you – there will be a new chapter arriving, hopefully this week. This season is alway hectic so I don’t have that much time on my hands right now. Thank you for your patience!

— Geale    Tuesday 21 October 2008, 20:03    #

Oh I love this story. I want to take Deren out myself. I hope Faramir gives it to him when he finds out he’s the one. These two need some happy time. I cant wait for more.

— Kelly    Thursday 23 October 2008, 19:38    #

Ugh! I almost yelled out loud when I realized this chapter ended here! I cant wait to find out what happens next!

— Kelly    Monday 27 October 2008, 14:15    #

evil! that is an evil ending! man! totally dyin to know what happens here.

ange    Monday 27 October 2008, 21:11    #

Cliffie? What cliffie? Who, me? NEVER! :D Imagine instead how horrible it would have been if the whole story had ended here and now… Oh, I am so happy to see you engage in this! We have holidays over here this week so I’ll probably do some writing sooner than later this time around. Keep those yells coming ;) I DO love you all!
//the author who is feeling just a tad bit evil tonight

— Geale    Tuesday 28 October 2008, 0:08    #

Oh this vile little man! I’d like to teach him a lesson. I hope he gets his. Poor Faramir. I just knew he was going to be in trouble in the next chapter. Awesome work. Can’t wait for more as always.

— Kelly    Monday 10 November 2008, 23:19    #

Ouch! That was low. Deren doesn’t miss a trick, does he? Please don’t let Aragorn be merciful with this one like he was Grima. This is no time to be noble.

Thanks!

— Vanwa Hravani    Friday 14 November 2008, 16:29    #

Aaw, he’s a sweet one, isn’t he? So… what would an appropriate punishment be?

— Geale    Saturday 15 November 2008, 17:35    #

OMG! Poor Faramir – this one truly makes my stomach hurt. Awesome job! I feel so bad for these two. I hope the Valar grants them some happiness soon and some swift, and hopefully painful, punishment to that horrible creature.

— Kelly    Monday 17 November 2008, 18:10    #

Keep writing! I keep loving it.

— Vanwa Hravani    Sunday 23 November 2008, 3:59    #

Excellent! Truly Excellent! That was well worth the wait. Thank you.

— Kelly    Thursday 11 December 2008, 18:03    #

exhaaaaaaales Thank you! (I actually said that out loud a couple of times.) I was honestly quite nervous when posting this chapter since I don’t want to disappoint you and yet… well, I’ve given all of my reasons above. Hah! I feel much more at ease now! resumes breathing

— Geale    Thursday 11 December 2008, 18:56    #

Ilove the way you describe those two, it’s a lovely variation of the more usual fare. Although I got used to the concept of mpreg in fantasy [however could THAT happen? ;-)] I prefer your way, especially in this case. I’m always happy to discover a new chapter. Thanks for sharing!

— Minkicat    Saturday 13 December 2008, 0:37    #

Thank you, thank you! I’m falling more and more in love with this story as I go along and I will be sad to see it end. I’m insanely happy that, so far, you all seem to approve of my decision regarding Aragorn’s future children. Don’t worry, I have it all worked out. I actually do. Hugs to you all! Oh, and cookies!

— Geale    Monday 15 December 2008, 22:02    #

I’m rather glad you have gone with a more canon solution to their issues. It makes it easier for me to think it really happened that way! ;-)

— trixie    Saturday 20 December 2008, 12:47    #

So even as you let Aragorn be merciful, you won’t let the little bastard off the hook? I admit he deserves a bit more than a smack on the fingers…
Merry Christmas and a very happy and content New Year to you!

— Minkicat    Tuesday 23 December 2008, 17:31    #

Geale, still loving every bit of it. So glad Aragorn finally got the marriage thing sorted out (took him long enough, the brute!). And the healer is, of course, loved. But please, please, please, can’t some Ranger skewer Deren with an arrow somewhere beyond the borders, out of loyalty to Faramir and anger at the pain D caused him? Cause the Rangers are the voice of truth and just vengeance, right? Please? He can float down a melting river with arrows in his back – maybe he tried to sneak back in to Gondor? Please?

Will love whatever you do. Thanks!

— Vanwa Hravani    Saturday 27 December 2008, 12:50    #

Trixie: I do get your point ;)
Minkicat: Same to you! I’ve been debating with myself since forever what to do with Deren… and this was my solution.
Vanwa Hravani: I’m considering… I am. I think that maybe you gave me an idea actually. I do hope all of you will endure a never-ending epilogue! I should try to work it into the last chapter though… OK, I’m rambling. Let me see what I can do for you! And, YES, I took him some time to finally ask the big question! Men… ;)

— Geale    Saturday 27 December 2008, 16:51    #

As Always truly excellent. I will be sad to see this story end as well. I anxiously await each new piece. So glad they are finally together forever. I think some copper locked children would be nice also. However, I think Legolas or Haldir could be persuaded to get our dear Deren between the eyes for his treachery. I’d volunteer to do it myself but I’m sure I’m not nearly as good with a bow. Then let the scavengers have him. Cruel I know but I so hate anyone trying to hurt our Faramir. Poor lad has suffered enough. Thanks so much for this story. I have enjoyed every bit of the ride.

— Kelly    Tuesday 30 December 2008, 21:42    #

I’ve loved reading this fic! you portray the relationship so beautifully! It’s tender and sweet and hot all at the same time:)

— minx    Thursday 1 January 2009, 11:43    #

Oh Geale! That was the most beautiful yet, and that’s saying something. I could feel each touch, and every one was so full of pure love. Lust born of love is such a special beast, and so hard to portray. Yet you did it in spades. Now I’m in love with both of them. Sigh. Your Aragorn is the most gentle and loving and truly admirable I have read. These two both have such strength of character. I’ll be awaiting the epilogue with baited breath – as many parts as you like. Write on lady!

VH

— Vanwa Hravani    Friday 2 January 2009, 18:57    #

You’re all so sweet – thank you!
Kelly: I’ll put you in my next story, if you’ve worked up your skill with a bow by then ;) We shall see what happens in the epilogue…
Minx: I’m glad they’re not only fluffy, but hot as well! That’s always so… very nice, I find ;)
Vanwa: I’m blushing over here. You spoil me! Not saying I don’t like it, though! I’m actually curious about what you will think of the epilogue – which will be in two, long parts. And that’s partially your fault! :D

— Geale    Friday 2 January 2009, 22:07    #

Thank you for including me. I shall practice diligently as to be ready for my challenge. This last part was wonderful. My curiosity is piqued for the epilogue. I can hardly wait.

— Kelly    Monday 5 January 2009, 17:36    #

What I will think about the epilogue? Ah…Sigh. Big long exhale. Love it. Love them. Love your writing. Thank you!

Very happy to see Deren get an arrow in his back, in his gullet, in wherever else he got them. Really like the way Eachann tries to be merciful, yet flashes on Elessar’s ‘unspoken wish,’ how when he finally lets fly, it’s without thought but with the smooth immediacy of both necessity and justifiable honor, targeted by the unseen voice and years of skill. Just as I would picture one of Faramir’s Rangers. What a strong and touching legacy of his command, followed by scenes of his continuing grace as a parent. Also like how Eachann went back the next morning to retrieve his arrows, both covering his tracks and not wasting even good iron on the trash that was Deren. In few words, shows that both the man and what happened to him are unworthy of further notice. The ultimate vengeance. He is only a blip in the past.

The parent sex scenes (early morning, curious children) were oh so well written and so true to life without being either saccharin or unrealistically feral. They speak of deep and abiding love, strengthened, rather than interrupted, by the presence of children. And what to say about the final gifts of naming and of cradling in one another’s arms and Creation? Well, I’ll have to follow Aragorn’s advice here. The words would never do. Know that I’m smiling and content and so enjoyed the journey. Thank you.

— Vanwa Hravani    Friday 9 January 2009, 15:42    #

Phew, I’m glad I did justice to the rangers! Since I’m not very used to writing – any of – them. But I do happen to like Eachann actually, and I figured that he should be the one to… bring matters to an end.

I’m certainly not used to writing family scenes either, but after I had sorted out Eldarion’s character, I just couldn’t stop! (If I’m allowed to say so myself – I love him!)

But, no matter how many children Aragorn concieved, I don’t want his and Faramir’s relationship to change into either a boring one, or a chokingly fluffy one. They are still individuals, and they have their own story – the children, as you say, are adding to it, simply.
And thank YOU for coming all this way with me. New journeys await. Let us see where they take us.

— Geale    Saturday 10 January 2009, 17:05    #

Ooh! That was quite the perfect epilogue. I am glad their relationship endures with the same quiet intesnity. I love how sweet and loving these two remain with each other, and how perfect they are with the kids! I also liked the little bit where Faramir feels for the mother as well. I tink he certainly would be cognizant of her feelings.

Quite a perfect ending, and the sequel is most looked forward to:)

— Minx    Sunday 11 January 2009, 17:01    #

Thank you Minx! Perfect, you say? You won’t hear me complaining… ;)
No, I can’t see Faramir punishing the mother or the kids like that. Ah! He’s so noble it’s endearing!

Now, I am working on a new story, but it’s not a sequel, and has nothing to do with TCW. Primarily because presently I don’t know what a sequel would be like. But who knows, one of these days maybe I will? Thank you again!

— Geale    Monday 12 January 2009, 12:30    #

Absolutely wonderful!!!!!!! Eachann is my hero!! I love that Deren got what was coming to him. And there will be some slightly copper haired children after all. I’m so glad with how everything turned out. I love Mirairael’s name. That was perfect! What a great story! Thanks for sharing it with us.

— Kelly    Monday 12 January 2009, 18:13    #

Oh I forgot to ask before. I was wondering on the pronunciation of Mirairael’s name. I made the assumption that the ai will follow the long I in pronunciation. Is that right? That is a beautiful name. Just wondering for my own amusement. Thank you

— Kelly    Monday 12 January 2009, 20:16    #

Finally got caught up in a timely manner! I have truly enjoyed this tale. It is romantic without being cloyingly sweet. I adore the teasing and banter between the two along with the dry wit.

I have been intrigued by your use of personification and especially liked,’ Her white apron immediately drew the attention of the firelight which excitedly coloured it orange.”

I thought it added a sense of realism that Faramir experienced hurt at Aragorn’s determination that his line must continue. (Doubt if Aragorn would have been thrilled if the situation were reversed either ;-)

Finally, the scene back in chapters 8 and 9 with the under the table seduction was one of the hottest things I have ever read. Wow!

Thank you for sharing!

— trixie    Monday 12 January 2009, 20:39    #

Kelly! Thank you dear! It’s lovely to see so many exclamation marks in a row ;)
I was quite happy with her name too. As for the pronunciation… Well, since I made it up myself (sort of, not stealing the light of glory from Master Tolkien who created the languages) I could not say for certain. Also, I’m far more used to Sindarin than I am to Quenya. However – bear with me now – this is my guess:

‘Mir’ – ‘meer’, as we know already from Faramir’s name.
‘ai’ should be pronounced ‘ai’, as in ‘rye’, which here I would rather see pronounced as ‘a + i’, to tell you the truth, ie as separate vowels.
As for the vowels that are not any of the six diphthongs ( ai, au, eu, iu, oi, ui), I’ve heard that they are to be pronounced separately.
So that should give us: Meer-ai-ra-el?

Anyone who knows this better is welcome to share their knowledge – I have an email address!
I hope I managed to shed some light, though. Perhaps…

— Geale    Monday 12 January 2009, 21:05    #

Trixie, you too have made it to the end! And with some very nice comments as well. I like those!

Yes, I am the person who personifies a lot. But it does make the world so much more interesting! And I highly suspect I will carry on with this winning (?) concept in the future.

And, actually, now that you mention it… I think Aragorn would have been most displeased, had it been Faramir who must take a lover in order to continue his bloodline… That is a very interesting thought indeed!

Ah, the chapters 8 and 9… As a dear reader of mine put it: “The good old under the table action”. I guess that I should include some “on top of the table action” next time ;)

And thank you for reading! For my part, it’s been a pleasure writing!

— Geale    Monday 12 January 2009, 21:23    #

That was kind of what I was thinking. Thank you for the assistance. I think its a cool name. Also I agree wholeheartedly with the under the table seduction scene. I know I read that several times, especially the hallway parts when Aragorn informed Faramir he didnt like to share “anything”. If I had Faramir I wouldn’t share him either.

— Kelly    Monday 12 January 2009, 21:45    #

No, our King doesn’t like sharing… and it now it has served to inspire me further. Give me a couple of days! ;)

— Geale    Tuesday 13 January 2009, 15:22    #

Well now, this sounds intriguing! Since I have some free time this week, I’ll be waiting to see what you come up with ;)

— trixie    Tuesday 13 January 2009, 17:07    #

Oh I just love when you are inspired. Means good reading for me! I’m on the edge of my seat

— Kelly    Tuesday 13 January 2009, 23:17    #

what a wonderful story! i couldn’t stop reading it! PLEASE WRITE MORE!!!

— HugeFan!    Tuesday 22 December 2009, 15:41    #

I think my favorite parts are the perspectives of the elements (the dawn light and the temperature), but I loved the whole story.
The healer was definitely my favorite character, that old dude was awesome.
I’m also very glad Aragorn got his rug, he seemed very happy.

— Anna    Tuesday 17 August 2010, 23:09    #

Thank you! This universe still has a special place in my heart…

Anna, the healer takes his work very seriously ;) And rugs are important! I was pleased that you made the rug connection :)

Thank you for reading!

Geale    Wednesday 18 August 2010, 8:47    #

WOW – a bit tired now after reading for the whole night, but I just couldn’t stop. – WOW

Congratulations on the characters you have written for us readers.
The relationship between Aragorn and Faramir sounds far more convincing than most of the other fanfics have them.
The under the table scene gets full points – not for originality, but for very well written indeed.
The healer is a gem – I’d love to see more interaction with him – perhaps some more stories about the royal family?

BTW I was missing the lecture on positions given to Aragorn and Faramir by the healer…. but one can’t have all, can one ?;-)

Thanks for sharing this great story,

— Kathurien    Thursday 30 September 2010, 1:22    #

Thank you so much! It’s great to hear that you enjoyed it!

I’m afraid the healer’s lectures are closed to the public and I can do very little about that. He’s a stubborn one…

I feel very comfortable in this universe but I will honestly say that I have no ideas for another sequel right now (one already exists – Tale Telling). Although, pretty reviews, such as yours, always make me want to write more :)

Thank you again!

Geale    Wednesday 6 October 2010, 19:19    #

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