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Mist (R) Print

Written by Geale

30 September 2010 | 88324 words

Chapter Twelve – Breakdown

Tuilë 33

Éowyn’s dress glowed a perfect, shining white as she walked beside him; the thin fabric seemed almost intent on wrapping around his legs as they slowly crossed the Court of the Fountain in the midday sunlight. She was laughing gaily and he smiled at her before turning his eyes to the great oak that stood in the centre of the court. Greens leaves adorned the branches that in one moment appeared a brownish-grey, and in another, gleamed as white as Éowyn herself.

Their stroll across the Court was brutally interrupted by a hiss and flames sprung up beside Faramir with such force that he must throw himself aside. He heard his father’s desperate cry as the fire licked his skin. Denethor’s hands, claw-like in the wild blaze of the fire, reached out for him and failing to evade him, Faramir felt his father’s nails dig into his arm as he frantically clang to him.

“Boromir…” Denethor pleaded, “my sweetest son…” The fire was swallowing him whole and his eyes were shining madly. “Boromir!”

Faramir thrust his father away from him and the whirlwind of fire was suddenly gone. He was standing in front of the tree and from behind it a very tall man stepped out. The water of the Fountain lapped around Aragorn’s bare feet but he remained solemn and grave. Beside him stood Éowyn, proud, and with her white dress stretching across her rounded belly. Faramir watched how Aragorn lifted a hand and gently laid it there, protecting the life that grew within. Éowyn’s hair was dark, coal black, and it fell in gentle waves down to her waist. Faramir felt a heavy sorrow settle in his breast.


“Damrod?” Faramir stepped into the dining hall, still with bits and pieces of his dream chasing each other across his mind. The sky was covered by a compact, white blanket of clouds and a cold, sharp daylight had replaced the night.

“Hey!” His friend was seated at the table, eagerly investigating the contents of various pots and cup. He lifted a lid and nodded, seemingly content. “Eggs?”

“No?” Crossing the floor, Faramir dropped into a chair opposite Damrod. He found it difficult fighting a smile as the examination continued most enthusiastically before him. “You had no breakfast in your own kitchen?”

Damrod briefly looked up from a steaming pot of tea. “Sure I did.” He sounded only slightly offended. “But none as good as yours, my friend. An’ not half as much!” Almost reverently, he poured two cups of tea and pushed one towards Faramir. Then he picked up a knife and proceeded to slice some bread. “Also,” he said as a look of embarrassment settled itself on his face, “I came to apologise, you know. For the other night.”

Faramir shook his head as he claimed one of the slices for himself. “Think no more on it.”

“Cheese?”

With an insistent look, Damrod urged him to fill his plate. Faramir accepted some of the fruit and a small bowl of a vegetable soup Damrod apparently had convinced the cooks to make.

“When did you arrive?” he asked, more and more intrigued as he dipped his bread into the soup.

“Oh, not too early,” Damrod shrugged. “So you sure all’s well?”

“Yea,” Faramir nodded, “despite the fact that you are securing peace by offering me my own food in my own home.” He grinned.

Damrod raised an eyebrow and there was a twitch in the corner of his mouth. “Seems to work.” He reached for a small jug proving to contain some type of jam. Carefully, he coated a chunk of bread with it and inspected the result with an approving smile. “So,” he said, “how’s the King?”

Faramir nearly choked on his tea. “What?”

“The King,” repeated Damrod before he took a bite. He chewed slowly while he frowned.

“Well, I think,” said Faramir, not sure Aragorn was well at all, but not the least inclined to speak of him.

“You aren’t keepin’ an eye on him?”

Producing a shrug, Faramir set his cup down. “He is the King…” It was hardly an explanation but it was all he could manage.

“That,” Damrod nodded, “he is.” He leaned forward suddenly and lowered his voice. “So, have you found out anything, then?” he asked between bites.

“And what ought I to ‘find out’?” Dropping his gaze, Faramir concentrated on stirring his soup.

His friend, evidently not impressed by this display of ignorance and disinterest, gave a long sigh. “You know well what I speak of,” he said and then continued in a more conspiratorial manner. “We were all there – we all saw them.”

Faramir felt the demanding gaze trained on him and so he lifted his head to meet it. Damrod was suggestively waving a piece of bread before him. “We saw the whole party, remember? I’m telling you ‘twas a strange sight indeed! Stranger even than when we stumbled upon the Periain in the woods you know… But in strange times, strange tales will be told, I suppose.”

He fell silent for a moment or two and Faramir uneasily shifted in his chair. He could plainly see where this conversation was headed but he was not the least tempted to speculate about the royal affairs of Minas Tirith.

“Anyhow,” continued Damrod, “the whole host of them, riding into the City… All bright and gleaming, and such. And we all saw the boy. And…” he lowered his voice even further, “we all saw the Lady.

Faramir nodded as an image of the slender, and very beautiful, daughter of Elrond rose in his mind. Her pride was of another kind than Éowyn’s and she spoke not much as far as Faramir could see – or hear. She had ridden in the company of her brothers with Eldarion beside her.

“True,” he said simply.

Damrod raised his eyebrows. “So? We all saw the elven Lady who would be Queen, but it’s been six years and still there’s no Queen on the throne in the Tower.” He popped the bread into his mouth.

Taking a sip of his soup, Faramir could only agree. Perhaps if Eldarion’s identity had been kept hidden – and if people failed to see the resemblance – then no one would have wondered, but the child had been brought to Aragorn who greeted him as his son. Arwen Undómiel was therefore expected to be crowned any day and though some regarded her with suspicion, the citizens unconsciously prepared for it, and even perhaps for a wedding. Faramir, as newly appointed Steward, should have been informed. He should have been formally introduced to his future Queen, and he awaited this and dearly hoped he would like her. He found himself pondering and loosely planning the upcoming ceremony as all was pointing in that direction – except it never happened.

When the elves departed, Eldarion went with them and suddenly that was the end of that, and it all seemed like a dream or an odd piece of history that somehow lay outside reality. Tongues in the market were idle, and the City overflowed with rumours. Faramir had never asked Aragorn.

“I take it you don’t know anything more?” Damrod was pouring them both some more tea.

“No,” said Faramir, rousing himself enough to resume the battle with his breakfast. “Why are you so curious?”

Damrod flashed him a grin and leaned back in his chair. “It’s not me who’s housing a King!”

“Forget it,” said Faramir, “I, at least, am Steward. It really is nothing you should care about.”

Damrod’s grin only grew. “I am not Steward, no, so I am allowed to speculate.” He shoved the plate of eggs closer to Faramir. “Eat.”


The sun refused to break open the compact blanket of clouds that covered the sky. Faramir worked without inspiration and so did his fire. The woods were silent and unwilling to speak with him. The rage that had caused Faramir to scar the young birch had deeply disturbed the confidence they had for him. They would not prevent him from doing his job, but they would not aid him either.

Damrod had stayed for several hours, making sure he earned himself a large portion of the noon meal, and Faramir was pleased to have him around. When he married, which he probably would though his chosen lady’s father appeared to enjoy prolonging the courting process, Faramir suspected he would come less often.

A few times, Faramir had tried to picture himself as a married man, or even a father, but the fantasy immediately failed when he struggled to imagine what it would be like sleeping with a woman. He had known men – men his own father would have greatly despised – who swore that to lie down with a woman was a horror… But then, and this he knew all too well, there were men who would rather cut their throats than to lie with another man. Sometimes he wondered if women were the same, and if there were women who also preferred their own sex.

The house was quiet and some type of peace was drifting through it when Faramir stepped inside and shed his cloak and boots by the door. Aimlessly he wandered through the rooms, for the first time actually reflecting on the silence that seemed to inhabit the walls and furniture. And for the first time ever, he found it somewhat sad.

He came to stand by the large table in the dining hall. It was now cleared and showed no traces of either breakfast or noon meal. He ran his palm slowly across the smooth wooden surface as the daylight began to fade. He knew not what he wanted.

From an unknown source within, grief sprang up, and tears dimmed his vision. He let them fall as unwanted knowledge came to him: for such a long time it seemed, had he been convinced that this house, the silence it provided him with, and the connection he had to the land was enough, and that he really needed no more. He truly believed that he was happy and that by being strong and focusing on what needed to be done was good enough. If he were blessed with the good friendships of Damrod and Mablung, then that was a welcome gift. He rejoiced when they were happy, and he watched Mablung’s family life from a distance, telling himself not to be envious for he had no reason to be, and so he never was.

But tonight this house, no matter how much he loved it, was very, very quiet. And the night would be a dark one.

He gave a small sigh and self-consciously wiped away the tears from his eyes. Still he did not move but stood by the table as the mist swept over the grass and evening fell. He felt at loss and yet he could do nothing. Tears began to fall once more and his heart felt large and heavy in his breast. If it was this openness that so unexpectedly had grasped him, or if it was the will of the Gods that determined what happened next he could not say, but he jumped when he thought he spotted a shadow in the doorway.

Quickly running the back of his hand over his cheeks, his pulse began to race when Aragorn cautiously stepped inside the dining hall. The darkness hovered around him and he looked pale. Faramir swallowed down his emotions without much success. The foolish idea of running away suggested itself to him but he was unable to move. He felt beaten and worn out and could do nothing but stare as Aragorn slowly approached.

Dark shadows played in the corners and the blue shade of nightfall stretched out across the floor. The King kept his gaze trained on Faramir who could not understand his expression. He seemed so calm and it made the floor sway under his feet. Deeply embarrassed, Faramir felt new tears sting his eyes. When Aragorn came to stand before him, he was forced to turn and the edge of the table nudged his backside. The older man’s eyes shimmered in the darkness and Faramir felt all remaining energy seep out of him.

His last hope of staying strong died when Aragorn’s face was touched by a wave of gentleness. “I am sorry.”

Faramir slumped against the table and the tears ran down his face unchecked. His father’s words and Boromir’s silence mingled with the strong force of rejection.

“I am sorry,” whispered Aragorn and he lifted a hand to Faramir’s temple and brushed away a stray strand of hair. “I am sorry.”

This was a touch that Faramir could not handle and yet his entire being screamed for more. He shrank away from Aragorn’s hand but his breathing grew erratic and the first true sob shook his frame. Burning pain pierced his heart when he realised Aragorn would not go away. His fingers brushed his temple a second time and this time they did not leave. They gently began tracing a line down his cheek, spreading the moisture that wet Faramir’s beard. Aragorn’s eyes were still so gentle and that more than anything made Faramir’s vision hazy.

He leaned against the table for support, not able to trust his legs any longer. Sorrow welled up in a way he had never before known and Faramir could not stop it. His sobs filled the room and he wished he could be someplace else, someplace where he could be alone. But he was not alone and Aragorn would not disappear.

“Faramir,” sighed Aragorn and his name floated out into the dining hall, turning into an apology of some sorts. Arms wrapped around him and Aragorn held him loosely, obviously unsure of how to deal with his reaction.

Faramir, however, could produce no resistance. He melted into Aragorn’s embrace and was dazedly surprised at the sensation of comfort that he discovered there. For a little while, he felt secure and he closed his eyes.

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90 Comment(s)

I am so ready for another of your stories. I am hooked already and can’t wait for more!

— Kelly    Monday 27 July 2009, 16:15    #

Thank you my dear! I’ll give you more in about a week.

— Geale    Tuesday 28 July 2009, 7:42    #

My what a disquieting beginning! Once again you set a different tone from your previous stories. :)

I have always been intrigued by the references to Faramir’s “far-sightedness”, but few authors delve into it.

— trixie    Wednesday 29 July 2009, 21:53    #

Wow this is very mysterious indeed. It is very exciting trying to fit these pieces together.

— Kelly    Monday 3 August 2009, 17:21    #

I’ve been away for a little while but I’m happy to see that both “disquieting” and “mysterious” are words being used ;) With my own far-sightedness I predict they might be used again!

— Geale    Tuesday 11 August 2009, 8:25    #

I had guests and was away for a while and am just catching up. You are certainly weaving this tale in an unhurried manner :) Do you think I have patience? I need to know what is going on with Aragorn. ;)

— trixie    Thursday 27 August 2009, 16:48    #

I second that! I am on the edge of my seat here. I have come up with so many scenarios in my head I am getting dizzy. I cant wait to find out if I’m even remotely close. Anxiously awating more as always.

— Kelly    Thursday 27 August 2009, 21:33    #

Oh, I’m sorry! I thought you both were patient! :P Unfortunately we shall go very slow… So please make yourselves comfortable and await some more… eh… waiting ;)

— Geale    Sunday 30 August 2009, 21:09    #

oooooooooooooooooooooh! I’m totally impatient and you are totally killing me. Ah sweet suspense. I may complain about the suspense but you know I really love it. This should prove very interesting I think.

— Kelly    Tuesday 8 September 2009, 22:21    #

The mystery continues to deepen. Quite serious about taking it slow, I see :)
Forgot to mention, I love the pictures you have used to illustrate. I like knowing what the author is visualizing. Are they truly yours? They are very nice!
Off to bed, though I doubt my dreams will be as interesting as Faramir’s ;)

— trixie    Thursday 10 September 2009, 1:05    #

Slow is the new quick I hear ;) Yes, I shall torment you further by not posting yet. The boys are being a bit obstinate at the moment so I will need some time to sort a couple of things out.
Yes, the pictures are all mine! I’m glad you like them. Any interesting dreams, Trixie? :)

— Geale    Sunday 20 September 2009, 13:19    #

oooooooh now this is getting sticky! You are torturing us well my dear. I like it!

— Kelly    Monday 21 September 2009, 19:08    #

Ah, armchairs! And rain, which seems to factor into many of their encounters. And Aragorn wants to spend more time together, even if he continues to be mysterious about the reasons for his visit :)
Alas, any interesting dreams I may have are stuck inside my own head :) I totally lack your gift for transferring what I imagine into words.

— trixie    Monday 21 September 2009, 21:55    #

Stickier by the minute! —washes hands—
I’m afraid Aragorn, and his intentions (whatever they are – does he even have any?) shall remain shrouded in mystery for a while yet. Apparently revelation just isn’t his thing. And we shall see about ‘spending more time together’… Perhaps he is lying? Ah, well, enough with the speculations – what do I know?

— Geale    Friday 25 September 2009, 9:08    #

Ah, a chapter sprinkled with tidbits that rouse more curiosity than they satisfy :) So the mist comes from the North, and Aragorn has things to settle in Rivendell? And they speak of journeying north to Rivendell. Hmm.

Ai! What ever is the question burning in Faramir’s mind that he forbids himself to ask? And what is up with that ring!?

Finally, I am so enjoying the exploration of their, um, Numenorean quirks ;)

— trixie    Sunday 11 October 2009, 15:03    #

Yes, who would have expected a chapter with such diversity? Weather and geography issues, an interest in interrogation – and not to mention a ring that behaves very oddly indeed. Reminds me of another one… Oh well.

Their “Numenorean quirks”? :) Haha! Better Numenorean than Mordor…ean, as I have always said!

— Geale    Wednesday 21 October 2009, 22:02    #

And here I am sitting in silence and once again rereading your works. I had no patience any more and have read this not ended story at last. I think why do you write your story so beautiful, sensual and so slow!!! Sorry!
Do you know, Geale, that you are the great author? I love those wise and adult relationships you write about, and if I write my own story one day, it will be like yours!

— Anastasiya    Thursday 5 November 2009, 19:47    #

Haha, slow is the new quick, I’ve heard! ;) Thank you very much, Anastasiya. I’ll treasure your praise – and I think you’ve earned a new chapter. It’s on its way!

— Geale    Monday 9 November 2009, 10:33    #

Tease Tease Tease! You know how truly impatient I am and you insist of taunting me and making me wait. I wish I could say I was angry but you always entertain me so I just cant be. I am just a puppet anxiously awaiting more. As always it was totally wonderful and I shall (oh so impatiently) wait for more.

— Kelly    Monday 9 November 2009, 21:58    #

Such a clever author! Finds a way to give us (and Faramir) a little satisfaction while still sloowly developing the relationship ;)
This story is so shrouded in mystery that Mist is indeed the perfect title.
Hope you had a lovely holiday!

— trixie    Tuesday 10 November 2009, 22:21    #

I did, thank you! It was actually quite inspiring and plot bunnies were all over the place.
Yes, we’re still doing slow! But I thought that the dream would at least satisfy you a little. Ah, the kindness of this writer is unmatched! ;)

— Geale    Sunday 15 November 2009, 19:59    #

Aargh! What are you doing?! Tricksy, devious author! ;) (Who, I’m coming to believe, enjoys tormenting readers.)

— trixie    Wednesday 25 November 2009, 19:07    #

No doudts, you, Geale, truly love to torment your readers! I have already begun to believe that you would give us pleasure for a while and show anything definite, but now I see only MIST again. I do not know what to think. Was that kiss true or not..? What does Aragorn want..? Is Faramir in his right mind..?
I know, it is all your Aragorn/Legolas readers who are guilty that you do it with us! :)))

— Anastasiya    Thursday 26 November 2009, 3:16    #

Well read, Anastasiya! Points to you for putting forth the pertinent question: what is real and what is not? Unfortunately, I don’t feel like giving an answer. But I assure you, the A/L people have nothing to do with this ;)

Trixie, Trixie… How can I please you? That’s only a rhetorical question, though, for as it is, I’m having way too much fun tormenting you. I’ll have you know I take great pride in being both tricksy and devious ;)

— Geale    Friday 27 November 2009, 14:53    #

I was so excited to discover another story of yours here. I love your characterizations of both Faramir and Aragorn (who manages to both kingly and ranger-like). I especially like the illustrations for this story. The first one, with the mist in the woods, complemented the tone of that chapter perfectly.

— Mira Took    Friday 27 November 2009, 20:52    #

Ms. Took, welcome to ‘Mist’! I’m delighted to hear that you like this version of the boys even though I think Aragorn is a bit more quiet and troubled this time around. Turns out I love using photos to illustrate, so my camera and I are constantly looking for new sceneries. Thank you!

— Geale    Monday 30 November 2009, 9:12    #

Re: Chapter Ten

Wow.

— Mira Took    Monday 4 January 2010, 21:59    #

Of course I’m waiting to discover that didn’t really happen either ;) Aragorn’s fear and despair came as a surprise. He had seemed so enigmatic until now,

Amazing picture for this chapter!

— trixe    Tuesday 5 January 2010, 16:52    #

We shall see, we shall see :) Aragorn has a few inner demons to deal with, but I’m sure you can be enigmatic and, eh, depressed at the same time. No?

Mira Took, that was dort of what I was aiming for – thank you!

— Geale    Tuesday 5 January 2010, 18:04    #

Oh, you are cruel, Geale, cruel with readers of your stories!
It’s simply impossible to read such short chapters and then wait for the next one for so long time!
Have pity!

— Anastasiya    Wednesday 10 February 2010, 11:43    #

Haha, I know! That’s part of why I’m having so much fun ;)
Okay, to tell you the truth, I’ve had a lot to do lately and I didn’t want to update until I had a few more chapters done. I like being ahead of myself, so to speak. However, I’ve now finished my A/L WiP and should have more time over for this story. I will have some pity and post more often. Deal? :)

Geale    Wednesday 10 February 2010, 12:06    #

I do not know why but I beleive in you! :))

— Anastasiya    Wednesday 10 February 2010, 13:28    #

You know how I love you but you have me teetering on the edge here! Well done!

— Kelly    Monday 15 February 2010, 18:16    #

tsk tsk… Anastasiya, always trust the author…
Kelly my dear, teeter away! There shall be more chapters – another day. (I’m all about rhyming today)

Geale    Wednesday 17 February 2010, 18:41    #

Alright. Now I can tell you my dear you are truly truly evil!!!!! To finally give me what I want and then not only stop in the middle but close it off??!!! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again TEASE!!
But you know I love it and I will be back for more. What that says about me I have no idea. Ha ha. I think I should pack a luch because it looks like I will be sitting on this cliff for a long while.

— Kelly    Thursday 25 February 2010, 19:27    #

Poor conflicted Aragorn. And, of course, poor, poor Faramir!

Since I needed to catch up, I went back and read from the beginning. First, the words and descriptions weave such a spell. It is like being transported to another world.

Second, with all of the twists and turns and hints, I am not even going to attempt to speculate what will happen. I am just going to let it unfold :)

— trixie    Monday 1 March 2010, 15:04    #

Kelly, I’m thinking I obviously haven’t made my evil streak clear enough if it has taken you up until now to fully realise I have one! :) So, now, with chapter 14 I shall try harder… I hope you’re having a good time on the cliff. Do you think you might need dinner as well? —cooks—

Trixie, that is precisely the feeling I want to convey so you shall have a gold star! And lots of cookies. I’m not saying that what happens – or does not happen as it may be – in the story isn’t (or is, as it also may be) real but I did want to create a sort of dreamy reality. As for the future: time will tell…

Geale    Wednesday 10 March 2010, 12:17    #

Dinner sounds lovely my dear! However, the only nibbling I’d like to be doing is on Faramir himself. If Aragorn can’t get it to together in time, I will be happy to take care of our Faramir’s needs. After this story your evilness is not only apparent but appreciated. As always, well done my dear.

— Kelly    Tuesday 16 March 2010, 0:03    #

Alas! You might be too late – someone else is nibbling as we speak!

Geale    Monday 22 March 2010, 17:43    #

Geale, sorry I haven’t commented til now. I find this story breathtaking in its quiet allure, yet heartbreakingly so. I try to avoid it, yet I know I cannot – like touching one’s tongue to the hole where a tooth was. The salty pain is so familiar in its ache that it almost comforts. And in feeling the pain, one notices the slow healing of soft skin. As much as I love the sex and happy endings of usual fare, I admire you for having both the inclination and the patience to explore the quiet and unknown and painful without easy respite — and the ability to make it beautiful enough that others will follow you against their own natures, and, in so doing, come to understand. Even in its unreality, Mist is far more real than most things we read. Beautiful.

— Vanwa Hravani    Tuesday 23 March 2010, 10:28    #

Oh, my dear, I think your comment expresses the, hitherto – by me – unspoken reason for why I wanted to write this story. And, also, the inspiration that fuels the process. I realise this is a story that some people might find difficult to attune to, or even understand, but I’m writing this so much for my own sake that I find I do not care very much if some readers leave it. Instead, I cherish the ones that can share it with me. Your insight means the world to me. I hope that you are well and that there is lots and lots of love in your life. Many blessings.

Geale    Tuesday 23 March 2010, 13:00    #

Boy I cant wait to overhear or rather overread (ha) this conversation. Well Aragorn if you are going to snooze you are going to lose. That man is far to appealing to be left alone. I’d like a little Faramir snack myself. hee hee You are a tease and truly evil. I hope not to teeter on the edge for long. Take pity on your loyal subjects and give us more soon. hint hint

— Kelly    Wednesday 24 March 2010, 19:09    #

Ah, Aragorn, what torments you so? Clearly something not easily conquered :(

At least we have Faramir’s tantalizing dreams since reality isn’t cooperating.

— trixie    Monday 29 March 2010, 16:27    #

Pity, torments and evil… It can only get better, right? There will be some talking soon, I promise. New chapter on its way!

Geale    Tuesday 6 April 2010, 16:30    #

Ohhhhhhhhhhh you are killing me now! I feel like a mouse trying to get cheese off of a trap! Just when I think I’m getting what I want, SNAP! Denied again! Tease! However, you know I will be anxiously awaint more. I am totally wrapped up in this story and need to see the outcome.

— Kelly    Monday 12 April 2010, 22:25    #

um sorry, in my frenzied typing I had a mistype. That should read anxiously awaiting more. You see what you do to me? ha ha

— Kelly    Monday 12 April 2010, 22:28    #

I hope with my whole heart that all that happens now with Faramir would become real in future. Or it’s simply impossible!!! He would go mad!

— Anastassiya    Tuesday 13 April 2010, 4:17    #

Kelly, —squeezes eyes shut— No I don’t see anything! ;) But we ARE drawing closer to what you want… I think. Maybe. Thanks for sticking by me despite the frustration.

Anastasiya, He’s not going mad! It wouldn’t be any fun. But I see your point. However, I couldn’t just leave the mysteriousness out of it ;)

Geale    Friday 16 April 2010, 13:25    #

Ha ha ha. Ah you know you have me right where you want me. Thats the mark of a wonderful author, keep us wanting for more. I’m a faramir fiction addict and need my stories.

— Kelly    Tuesday 20 April 2010, 16:20    #

Damrod needs to take a hint! Although he might even know best at this point. Those two certainly need help making up their minds.

— Kelly    Wednesday 21 April 2010, 23:46    #

I think Damrod is looking at this from a realist perspective but he will be given time to expand on his opinions – we are not nearly done yet! I’ve currently finished ch25 and we still have a long way to go. Also, last night I wrote the ending so now I just have to fill in the rest…

Geale    Monday 26 April 2010, 22:23    #

25! Wow you do intend to torture me for some time to come don’t you? Since we are only on 18 not that is alot of toture remaining for me. Well if I’m going to be tortured, let it be by my favorite addiction, my Faramir fanfics. Count me in! I’m on board for the long haul.

— Kelly    Tuesday 27 April 2010, 21:54    #

Incredible!
Sometimes I think that you are simply impossible with your delaying and I have no wish and patience to read this story further. But as only you post here new chapter I suddenly understand how deeply I was wrong to think so.
Actually I love this story very much, all your stories, and I like these two shy men with all their fears and doubts. And more I like the thought that they would find their comfort in arms of one another.
Thank you!

— Anastassiya    Friday 30 April 2010, 15:57    #

What is going on with that darn ring? (Never trust jewelry in Middle Earth!) Does Damrod know something we don’t? And what is Aragorn dreaming about? I thought dreams were Faramir’s territory :) Why does this story produce such a feeling of disquiet in me? Quite an atmosphere you have created here! ;)

— trixie    Wednesday 5 May 2010, 5:36    #

Anastasiya, Thank you! I’m delighted to hear that you are still on board despite the slow going! This (ch 19) was obviously a key chapter because now Faramir knows why Aragorn is so scared of being with another man. So, things can only get better, right? Right. I’m not going to pick up the pace any time soon, however… So, settle down and breathe :)

Trixie, so many questions, so few answers! But, yes, the boys are both dreaming – and while it may be uncomfortable for Faramir, Aragorn is basically terrified. I think he’s mentioned the dreams before and what they consist of – go back and check. That at the very least shouldn’t be much of a mystery :)

Geale    Wednesday 5 May 2010, 8:10    #

Thank you my dear! You are officially forgiven(at least for now anyway hee hee). These last two chapters have given me some hope to hold me over for better things to come (I hope). You must surely know what a compliment it is to you that we continually come back for more despite the pace. I am hopeless. I cant wait to see the outcome of this story.

— Kelly    Monday 10 May 2010, 21:34    #

I feel like a student again, being told to reread an assignment. I truly only remember Aragorn mentioning his dreams in the vaguest of terms. and I got good marks in reading comprehension . . . truly :) I shall go back and check as soon as real life decides to allow me enough time ;).

This chapter continues the mood. Even though much progress seems to have been made, I continue to have a feeling of unease.

— trixie    Wednesday 12 May 2010, 20:00    #

Sorry, sorry for the delayed response (I’m sure you’ve been suffering ;))

Haha, Kelly, I knew you would like these latest developments! The outpouring of generosity from this author is never-ending!

Trixie, you could be right. I’m a bit ahead myself, working on future chapters so it’s entirely possible that Aragorn hasn’t yet said that much of importance, so to speak. But fear not – my aim is that all shall be dealt with as is appropriate ;) What you say about the mood is very interesting because I don’t consciously choose to write the story in this way… I think the mood is creating itself by now.

Thank you so much, both of you, for lovely support!

Geale    Sunday 23 May 2010, 10:05    #

Awwwww I have the warm and fuzzies. Although I have this sinking feeling you are going to pull the rug out from under me very soon.

— Kelly    Tuesday 25 May 2010, 16:50    #

I don’t think I have ever read Aragorn portrayed as so inexperienced and unsure. It fits perfectly with the attitude of society in this tale. however. So different from when such love is celebrated or at least accepted.

— trixie    Sunday 6 June 2010, 6:02    #

Kelly, not VERY soon… —innocent smile—

Trixie, for some reason I like to explore the boys’ weaknesses; there’s something about Aragorn that compels me to look beyond that apparent strength. I’m just sorry (no, not really) that it’s Faramir who has to deal with it ;)

Geale    Monday 7 June 2010, 11:01    #

I was pleased to notice your famous awkwardly-positioned-chair-problem in chapter 22 among all the other, darker problems that have been surrounding Faramir and Aragorn. Please take it as a compliment when I say that reading a story this long and this suspenseful is driving me to read cheerier fics right afterward (fortunately, you are posting some of those as well!). Like everyone, I’m looking forward to more Mist …

— Mira Took    Tuesday 8 June 2010, 5:48    #

Yes the chair issue comes again. I rather enjoy it though I must say. I am enjoying this change in Aragorn as well. He has more resolve than I have. I would have let Faramir have his way with me long long long ago. As always ,looking very much forward to more.

— Kelly    Tuesday 8 June 2010, 15:31    #

I have already vowed that my next chaptered story shall be chair free! It’ll take place entirely on horseback… or in a tent (a very small one in which there is no room for chairs). Chairs, ladies, are a nuisance.

On a more harmonious note, I’m glad you’re still enjoying the story, though gloomy it can be. I know updates have been scarce of late but I’m trying to decide in which direction the story is moving and how to proceed. I’m actually aiming for weekly updates but we’ll see what happens. Thank you so much for bearing with me.

Kelly, poor Faramir would not have a moment’s peace in your arms! ;)

Geale    Monday 21 June 2010, 22:29    #

Oh a tent, please (unless they’re sharing the horse … ;)

I really enjoyed this latest installment — it shed some light on the situation and then immediately gave us a new problem to worry about!

— Mira Took    Friday 25 June 2010, 6:46    #

Tents have been taken into consideration.

“…and then immediately gave us a new problem to worry about!”

You can always count on me! ;)

Geale    Saturday 26 June 2010, 15:44    #

Ha ha. You are so right I am so possessive of him. This last chapter had me feeling the same way. I was ready to kick poor Aragorn out of bed and take care of his needs myself! Alas I can’t, but a girl can dream. Tents or horseback? Any of the above sounds good to me but as long you take pity on me and it DOES HAPPEN at some point somewhere, I’m so in. Awaiting impatiently as always…..

— Kelly    Monday 28 June 2010, 18:18    #

What has poor Aragorn ever done to you?! Except for not throwing himself naked on top of (an equally naked) Faramir and shoving a ring on his finger at the same time? :)

I have decided on tents, btw, but the pairing has changed, and we shall see none of it until this story has come to an end. I’m now on chapter 31 and things are coming together rather nicely, I dare say.

Geale    Friday 2 July 2010, 22:33    #

Ha ha exactly! Alas he gets to take what I feel is my rightful place. I love Aragorn dearly but I am so jealous of him all the same. Ah a different pairing then? Well I see the rug is coming out from under me as I speak. Well I was expecting that so I am ready. Lead on and I will follow.

— Kelly    Tuesday 6 July 2010, 16:54    #

The only good thing about an insanely busy real life is that I get to enjoy several chapters at once :)
Just when I was letting my guard down about the dreams, you sneak one in on me ;) I’m starting to have some thoughts about those, and am most anxious to see what it all means.

— trixie    Saturday 10 July 2010, 5:00    #

Back from holiday and a new chapter is on it way! I’m so glad you’re still with me despite the weirdness, rug-withdrawal, dreams and everything else. Thank you!

Geale    Sunday 18 July 2010, 15:01    #

Real life took me away from all internet connections for a week and so I was delighted to come back and find more “Mist.” This chapter was definitely one worth waiting for!

— Mira Took    Monday 19 July 2010, 7:45    #

oohhhh now this is interesting indeed. Still hanging out on the cliff and ready for more.

— Kelly    Monday 19 July 2010, 18:18    #

Ah, lovely. No matter what else is in store, this was so sweet :)

— trixie    Thursday 22 July 2010, 5:46    #

Ah, I’m pleased you liked it! Now, after this happy moment, can I torture them some more?

Geale    Saturday 24 July 2010, 20:52    #

Oh, wow! If that is your idea of torture, please sign me up! :)

Beautiful writing, lovely pacing, and naughty tease with the chapter name! Worth waiting 28 chapters and endless months for. ;)

— trixie    Wednesday 28 July 2010, 11:48    #

You’re on the list!

Endless months… You know, the prologue was posted on July 27th last year. 12 months later – sex! :D

Geale    Sunday 1 August 2010, 18:45    #

Alas I finally feel myself coming back from the ledge! However, I also feel a dread that I am about to be teetering again soon. Wonderously evil you are! You never let me (or the boys) feel secure for long. These last few chapters have more than made up for your evilness.

— Kelly    Monday 2 August 2010, 16:17    #

Happy to hear it! :) My guess is that you can sort of rein in the teetering tendencies since we’re heading towards the end… At some point, even I know when to stop torturing my readers – maybe ;)

Geale    Wednesday 18 August 2010, 8:42    #

It is so nice to come back from holiday to an update on the dear boys :)

At least you didn’t make them wait a year for the sex; only your poor tormented readers ;)

I’m sure Damrod means well, but he certainly manages to cast a pall over the romance :p Hopefully you will overrule his negativity and find them a happy ending.

— trixie    Monday 23 August 2010, 0:49    #

An ending near you say? Alas, I am not sure if I should believe you or not. Just to be on the safe side, I shall remain on the floor with the rug already out from under me. I find it is my permanent home in this story.

— Kelly    Wednesday 25 August 2010, 1:04    #

Ah, dear Damrod! He only presented his view, and I ask you: what is wrong with that?

Kelly, at least use that rug as a pillow if you are going to stay down there…

Geale    Wednesday 25 August 2010, 21:21    #

What’s wrong? Why, he made Faramir cry >:(

— trixie    Saturday 28 August 2010, 16:32    #

Bad, bad Damrod…

Geale    Thursday 2 September 2010, 20:49    #

They’re certainly making up for lost time are they not:)

Love the relationship between Faramir and Arwen! But then I’ve always imagined them getting on quite well.

— trixie    Monday 6 September 2010, 16:52    #

I’m glad to see the situation with Damrod resolve … but not too quickly or easily. And I think this was one of the sweetest love scenes: kings have more clothes, ha! Great picture, by the way.

— Mira Took    Tuesday 14 September 2010, 8:53    #

Trixie, maybe… but they spent something like 25 chapters being apart ;)

Mira Took, thank you! Well, Damrod has good reasons for not being overjoyed. He knows what he is talking about… And I’m sure there’s enough clothes to go around!

Geale    Thursday 16 September 2010, 11:25    #

I love the way you wrote Arwen, to be so regal but free-spirited.
And I love the way you wrote the woods, the way they talked to Faramir and took care of him, and even sometimes attacked people who might have the possibility of hurting him in some way. The giggling trees/wind were awesome.

— Anna    Friday 8 October 2010, 20:02    #

I am in love with this story ! (and, finally with all your A/F zines!) It’s so lovely to see the interaction between the two lovers, so touchingly writen. Please, please, gifted us with another (long….) story about A/F relationship.
Millions thanks GEALE.
MF

— Sophie    Saturday 9 October 2010, 10:02    #

Anna, thank you so much! I’m glad you like my Arwen and the trees! I admit to being a tad worried that nobody would ‘get’ the story but apparently I was wrong. Here Faramir’s fate has somehow blended with Ithilien’s over the years and I thought this type of communication between man and land helped to illustrate that.

Sophie, I’m delighted to hear you like my writing! As for other stories, I have tons of ideas but I’m taking a small break now to sort them through and find a place to begin. I’m appealing to your patience!
Thank you ever so much!

Geale    Monday 11 October 2010, 20:46    #

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