Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 16, 2009 14:11:43 GMT -5
Yet again, it started at this very well known door of the third tier, where so many of our adventures begin. This time though, it was with a loud rap on the door by a small female hand. Although, who could really hear the knocking against the storm raging outside?!
Let us back up a few hours.
The household was quiet with morning light streaming in, only two remained at the home at this hour. Faeldor was at work in the stables, while Miriel and Meleth worked the kitchens of the palace. Melanir and Tinuves had taken Faelon and Marileth out to visit some old friends on the fifth tier. Just Narbeleth was left at home to care for the house as usual, while little Haliel played with a pile of small stones in the hall.
Beleth had just one errand to attend to this day, and it was to visit a good friend of hers; Nirwen. She had not always been friends with the young woman, but through her midwifery practice, she had met her. Nirwen was just a year older than Narbeleth, and had been happily married for the last two years to Borion, a young candlemaker who had just picked up his ailing father’s trade. Just a month previous, their first child had been born, and Narbeleth had seen to Nirwen throughout the pregnancy and at the delivery.
It was custom for midwives to mothers and babies for at least the first year of the child’s life. And though she would be visiting to check on the young woman and child today, it was still somewhat of a personal affair. Packed up in a basket, Narbeleth had a lovely loaf of bread, and a little jar of jam to take, as well a small blanket that her grandmother had stitched in the evening hours. It was difficult for new mothers, for that is a tiring time in a woman’s life, to have a newborn and still run a household. Narbeleth knew that Nirwen would appreciate it.
The western sky was dark this morning with heavy clouds, and the winds were blowing. It was sure to rain, though still far off in the distance. As the young woman set down the walk with her sister in tow, she estimated a few hours until the storm’s arrival. That should be plenty of time to walk to the second tier and back, to visit for a time and drop off her gifts. And aside, it was good to take Haliel out to walk. The little girl was now grown enough to keep some sort of pace, and if she took to using her small crutch she could walk quite well down the street on her own. Activity would only increase her endurance! And though Haliel complained about long walks, Narbeleth knew she would be glad in the future for having taken them.
The morning passed quickly. The walk down to the second tier was pleasant, and Haliel shed no complaints. She was happy at the prospect of meeting her sister’s friend, and playing with a baby. Haliel loved babies, for unlike children her own age, a baby would not judge her crippled leg and crooked gait, or her slight difficulty in speech. Aside, the walk downhill was always easier. Narbeleth sensed the whining that would come from walking uphill later, but she was quite used to it and content to spend time with her little sister.
Nirwen was glad to see them and ushered them in, and Beleth was glad to hold the little baby. Haliel played with the baby for a few moments, though soon grew uninterested, realizing that baby’s at such an age could not do much but lay back and blink at you, or crinkle their face and cry. She soon took to sitting on the front stoop and playing with a small mutt that wandered over from across the street to greet her. Narbeleth and Nirwen were content to talk, and the time passed without either of them noticing. Soon though, the air grew humid, and the breezes had stopped, and when Narbeleth took a look outside, it seemed that the clouds were looming overhead, and thunder was beginning to rumble.
The young woman said her farewells to her friend and the child, and was ushered on with merry tidings to give to Tinuves. Then they started the long jaunt up from the second tier. The wind picked up again, hot and heavy. But as the first few minutes passed, the storm broke out overhead and the sky poured forth. A light sprinkle to start, but then the rain came on heavy, and the thunder came overhead.
In the quiet moment after the thunder, Beleth told Haliel to walk quickly. But then the lightning struck, it seemed, just outside the thunder began again. The raindrops were thick and pelting diagonally from the sky.
“Beleth… I am afraid,” Haliel whimpered, her dress clinging to her skin causing difficulty for her to walk.
Narbeleth bit her lip. It was one thing to be caught in a downpour, but the lightning! That was dangerous. She had heard many a story of men struck down by lightning for the foolish decision of being outside in this kind of weather. The dark haired daughter of Belfalas was foolish in some respects, but not to the extent of putting her little sister in danger.
“Come, Hali,” the young woman said sternly, bending down to lift her sister up in one arm, positioning her against her hip, while balancing the basket beneath the other arm. As soon as she had lifted Haliel, the little girl dropped her crutch and it clattered into a puddle on the street. Narbeleth sighed, placing the basket down and bending awkwardly to reach it. Then, managing both the basket and crutch in one arm, and Haliel in the other, Narbeleth began a fast paced walk toward the next tier.
This would not last for long though, for Haliel was slippery and wiggling in discomfort, and the thunder was more often, with lighting striking closer to the city. Calm and collected Narbeleth was beginning to be a bit frightened. As they rounded the bend to the third tier though, her eyes caught sight of a familiar house, and she gulped slightly. She knew that Gilwen would be at work, and not home to greet her if she were to drop in, but mother was friends with Niniel, the lady of the house, was she not? Her brother was not on the best of terms with Beregar, but certainly Niniel would not wish for the young woman and child to be out and in danger of death by lightning strike.
“Where are we going?” Haliel pouted into Beleth’s ear as the woman approached the doorstep.
And now we make our way back to the beginning of the story, while a young woman rapped upon the door of the small stone house at the front of the third tier.
“To Gilwen’s house,” Beleth had answered, fully intent on making it to the step in her sopping dress. She knocked on the door again. No answer. Perhaps they could not hear over the waging of the storm… would it be too much to test and see if they were there? No; not too much when they were in such a dangerous situation. Narbeleth sat her sister back on her feet, handing her the little crutch once more, and went for the doorknob, pushing the door open. Someone must be home, as it was left unlatched.
“Hello?” she called quite breathlessly, into the house, waiting in the doorway for an answer, as streams dripped down her cheeks.
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Aug 16, 2009 15:34:33 GMT -5
It was quiet in the little house on the third tier, though in the small space it was quite full of people. Gilwen, of course, had headed off to work in the morning, bidding her mother a fond farewell and brushing past her father with lowered eyes. It seemed for the past few days not much in the way of conversation had passed between any, for Beregar’s display had bothered them all.
It was sad, as far as Gilwen was concerned. Their family had never been talkative, but they had always been lively with one another. Her Mama, though, had certainly let it be known she had not approved of the way Beregar had treated young Faeldor, by her sheer absence of speech or true interaction with her husband. It was beginning to wear on the giant man as well, for in his heart he also knew that he had behaved irrationally. Still, it was a weakness to go back on his decisions. “Niniel, what is done is done,” he had told her many times, though the little brunette had simply looked at him in the eye, and turned to walk away.
There was nothing in the world that Beregar loved more than his family; Niniel had been and always would be the love of his life. Such a cold shoulder was making him rather morose, and even for all of his height and strength he seemed to sulk around the house. Niniel, of course, paid it no mind. Until her husband had seen reason—and certainly, reason must be seen—she would continue to use sparse words and firmly refuse any advances that came her way.
And so it was, on a rather dreary day, that Niniel sat upon one end of the couch, a bit of cloth upon her lap, a needle and thread in her hand under the very desperate eye of her husband who had found himself on the opposite side. His brown eyes frowned, and seemed unwavering, though Niniel had hardly thrown a glance his way. The only sound that had passed through the house wafted from outside in the street.
It had been like that for most of the morning. The only words that had graced Beregar from his dear wife’s lips had been to inform him of lunch. The strain of such silence was wearing upon him, and finally the man broke. “Niniel, please. Must you stay so silent?” He was used to it from his daughter; Gilwen had molded into a quiet one; even when she was not so upset there was hardly a sound from her. But his wife! She had always been constantly chattering.
Nothing in response came, and the woman silently kept sewing. She did raise her eyes, though not toward Beregar---rather the window. It seemed quite dark outside.
The man sighed, as he saw her drop her eyes back to her work and he shifted to lean closer to her and peer over to what she was working on. “What is it you are making?” He was a bit curious, for it seemed he recognized what it was turning to be, though still he was careful to keep his voice down.
Niniel finally sighed, a bit agitated for his prodding, though appreciating the effort. She could not help but reply, her tongue was not used to being idle. Though, her tone was a bit sharp. “Something for our grandchildren. If you have not ruined such chances,” she glared over to him and then fell back to work, though her stitches seemed much more methodical.
“Grandchildren?” His voice raised a bit. “You mean to say that Gilwen—?”
“No, Beregar. She is not.” More silence, though finally Niniel could not take it anymore and dropped everything into her lap. “Honestly. That is our daughter, Beregar. She is not loose with her morals.”
It seemed the woman was rather tense in her body, and slowly, Beregar reached over to touch her shoulder. It seemed as if he were looking for something to say, though he could not find any. Finally he sighed sadly. “Yes, she is our daughter.” That was all he could say. If he had not held his tongue, he certainly would have rattled off about how it was disappointing that she had fallen to such lewd behaviors. Though he did not wish to drive Niniel further away.
“I cannot believe the way you have treated her over such a rumor! And Faeldor, too. Whatever has he done to earn your hatred?” Niniel asked, wriggling her shoulder free of his hand pointedly.
Beregar’s eyes flashed a bit hearing the name, and his muscles tensed a bit themselves. “He has hurt her, Niniel. Our little girl, he has touched her.”
Niniel scoffed. “He has done no such thing.” She was unaware, of course, of the true happenings upon the mountain, though if she had, she would have defended her daughter anyway. “I do believe you are frustrated,” finally, her eyes turned to him. “With your loss of job, with the rumors. But more so that Gilwen is an adult.”
Gilwen is an adult. The words seemed to be a bit alien to the man. He had not really ever called her such a thing. She was five and twenty, yes, but she was his baby girl. His only daughter. She could not be an adult. “That is untrue,” he lied simply. “I am well aware that she—“
“No, you are not. Do you hate Faeldor simply because he has taken our miracle from us? You know she would not replace you or hate you. Even now, though you have destroyed her with your accusations and orders. She loves you.” Niniel let a beat of silence fall before she softened her eyes and voice. “My father hated you for that reason.”
Beregar looked at her for a long while, but finally scoffed and stood. “No, I dislike him for what he has done to her. To us. Is it wrong to wish to keep your family name held in high regard?”
Niniel let out an angry sigh and then lapsed back into silence. Though, Beregar simply turned and headed out of the room. Niniel felt hot tears in her eyes for such a conversation. Where had her husband gone?
--
It did not take long for the storm to come in. My, how terrible it was! Niniel had abandoned her sewing, for she was now in no mood to do such a thing for the worry in her stomach she felt at such an impressive display of power and danger. Her daughter was quite a ways from home.
She had nestled down on the couch to watch out the window, though knew it was probably not soon that Gilwen would be returning home. A mother, though, always kept watch on her children. She had sat there for some time when a knock resounded on the door. At first, she had not known if it was a person or the thunder that she had heard, but after a tentative call into the home, the woman had bolted to the door to open it. Rain pelted against her face as she did open it, and there on her doorstep were two people that she had not seen, but one looked familiar.
She looked a bit surprised, for such weather was horrible, and their clothes did show they were quite well soaked. She did not know who they were, but as a mother she could not allow them to simply stand in the rain. She would inquire when they were inside and warming by the fire. “Good heavens! Do come in,” she ushered them inside quickly, checking the street for signs of anyone else that might need shelter, and then closed the door behind them, cutting out some of the sound of howling winds and pounding rains.
Such a shuffle and increased sound in the weather outside brought Beregar from the back room, and he stood quietly, and largely, in the hallway back to his own bedchamber but said nothing. He did not, after all, want to throw anyone back out into the horrible blackness. It was far too dangerous. Still, something about him seemed a bit tensed. Narbeleth’s eyes looked familiar.
“Are you both well? I do apologize for not answering sooner, it is hard to hear much of anything over this howling wind,” Niniel started in a rather kind manner. Still, her brown eyes studied both girls. They were quite lavishly dressed—or at least with better fabrics than anyone on this tier owned. “Do not think me rude, but I do not believe we have met.” She prompted for a name, though did not offer her own. Of all of the doors to come to! They had clearly been walking for some time in the rain. Had this been a pointed visit?
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Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 16, 2009 17:35:43 GMT -5
Grand! Someone had heard her call and was coming quickly to the door. Upon first appearance, it had to be Niniel, for she was small of figure, and looked quite a bit like Gilwen. She let them in and inquired as to their health, but did seem quite confused.
“Excuse us, my lady, I am sorry to interrupt you in your home so. I am Narbeleth, daughter of Faelon. You are a friend to my mother Meleth, I know.” Beleth looked to Niniel, knowing that she would surely see the familiarity between them, for each of the daughters of Meleth had the lovely appearance of their mother. Beleth had the same sea-grey eyes.
“And Gilwen is our friend too,” little Haliel chimed in, shivering in the entryway as she listened and realized that this must be Gilwen’s mother. Narbeleth had said they were going to her house, afterall.
“Yes, that she is,” Narbeleth agreed, her eyes smiling down at the little girl, then back to Niniel. “And this is our youngest sister Haliel. I was visiting a friend and the storm caught us on our way home. I was hoping… we are both well, but… well, I would not like my sister out there in the rain in the first case, but the lightning was most of the threat.” Narbeleth looked to the end of the hall where a great and tall man stood. Surely this must be Beregar, the man that Faeldor had some words about. He did not look all too angry at the moment. She caught his eye with a smile though said nothing to him yet. Niniel would surely introduce them.
“I apologize. We are in no state to enter someone’s home right now,” Narbeleth added, grimly looking down at her dress. It was the color of spring grass, darkened with rain, yet lively as the woman herself, with a lovely black trim. Truly though, she did not look so lovely at the moment, with black hair plastered about her face, and the dress sticking strangely to her figure. Haliel’s little blue dress was none the better.
Narbeleth was never worried so much about her appearance, but more the fact that she and her sister were dripping puddles upon the clean floor of Niniel’s home. It would seem like quite the unappreciative way to meet a person, but what else was there to do? Narbeleth always had quite the way of first impressions.
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Aug 16, 2009 18:04:41 GMT -5
Niniel had been quite confused, until she had heard the name of her two unusual guests, and to whom they belonged. Immediately, her brown eyes were quite bright, and she excitedly clasped her hands in front of her chest. “Oh, goodness, of course! I am terribly sorry. Please, do make yourself comfortable.” All at once, Beregar’s face frowned.
That had been the most he had heard from his wife in a while. And to the siblings of that man that had sullied their only daughter. Still, he was rather amused---for such was the gentle side of Beregar---that his wife had held such a turn in mood. It was as if she were dancing with excitement. Something softened a bit in his eyes. He even returned a small smile and nod at Narbeleth, despite his better judgment. He did not wish her to be able to return home and tell her brother that he was not as scary as he seemed to be; the man did wish for the lad to know he was quite sound in his threats and not to think of him lightly.
“I apologize. We are in no state to enter someone’s home right now.”
“Oh, no! You are more than fine, the both of you,” Niniel half-sang as she looked to them both beaming. Oh, such lovely girls! Both of them. She could see the relation to Meleth, as well as to their brother. However had she missed it before? “Please, do sit down and make yourself comfortable.” She did not mind if her chair or couch got wet, Niniel was too thrilled to have company. She did not get a chance to entertain often. If ever. And it was more the merry for Beleth and Haliel were going to be family shortly, or so she hoped. And they had said that her dear Gilwen was their friend! Oh, entirely splendid!
She moved about, to head to the kitchen. “Would you care for something to drink, dears?” She faltered a moment after she had offered and begun to round the little wall that lead to the kitchen. Certainly, they had nothing that such girls would be used to. She was not a fine baker like their mother, nor could they afford fine wine and the like of beverages they were used to. Still, hospitality was something Niniel lived for, and as such hurried past her husband with a smiling face and turned through the doorway to the kitchen. There was a little cut-out section of the wall, and one could see from the sitting room to the kitchen through the counter area.
“Niniel, dear,” Beregar chimed in, trying to earn himself a wife by the end of the day. “You have not yet introduced yourself.” If he could be genteel for at least the time where they had company, Niniel might let him speak to her. Well, as a frantic husband it was well worth the shot.
“Oh, heavens!” Niniel laughed from the kitchen, taking the liberty to find them a glass of juice anyway. “I am terribly sorry, girls. Call me Niniel.”
“And I am Beregar,” the man grunted in a rather approachable manner. That set Niniel into even a better mood.
She rounded the dividing wall once more with a tray of two glasses and some bread. She had no fruit to give them, for that was a luxury they could not afford. “You must be cold,” she mused aloud and took off for Gilwen’s room. She surely would not mind the use of her blanket, especially in such circumstances, so she returned with it and moved off to get her own.
When she felt she had sufficiently provided for them she herself sat down and motioned for Beregar to join them. He did so, slowly, eyeing the two girls. They seemed rather well behaved, for having such a wayward brother.
“I am terribly sorry there is not more I can do for you.” Niniel stated. “I am glad you knew where to find us, though. I would hate to have you both wandering through the storm.” The thunder crashed once more, as if on cue.
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Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 16, 2009 19:12:05 GMT -5
“Thank you for your generosity,” Beleth said obligingly, to the fact that they could stay a time, and also that she was gathering the girls some food and drink. Narbeleth hated that she was always hungry, as it was entirely unladylike, but it indeed seemed a trait of their family.
“I am glad you knew where to find us, though. I would hate to have you both wandering through the storm.”
“And I am glad I knew as well,” Narbeleth smiled. “Faeldor pointed out the house to me… last week… in passing…” Oh confound it, Beleth! The woman thought to herself as soon as she had mentioned her brother’s name. She had made a mental note not to mention him, unless of course they had asked… but especially not in front of Beregar. And now she went about and did it right off the bat without thinking. Blast her mouth, she was always talking without thinking properly through things.
Narbeleth accepted the blankets gratefully, and wrapped one around little Haliel first as she found a wooden chair to sit her down in. She did not wish to soak the couch for it could take ages to dry when the weather was so humid as this. “Here, Hali… let’s get your shoes off…” she muttered to herself, still embarrassed about mentioning her brother’s name, and not wishing to catch Beregar’s eye after that.
“Is Gilwen here?” Haliel asked eagerly, accepting the cup and piece of bread, beginning to nibble away at it.
“I think she is at work, Hali,” Narbeleth said quietly to her sister. “I think Hali does love Gilwen as much as our brother does,” the young woman said sweetly, hoping to set her brother on a better term, now that Faeldor had already been mentioned anyhow.
Narbeleth set herself to removing the girl’s shoes, for it was difficult for Haliel to do it on her own. And then her long stockings next. She had a little wooden brace on her left leg, which fit her perfectly and was a great help to her walking with her weak leg, yet, with it being so wet it was not good to have her wear it, for the skin could easily break down, and then the girl would not be able to wear it and easily injure herself without it. Beleth let the little toes to dry, and lay the brace nearer the fire, that it might dry as well before they left.
Beleth, seeing no other place to put herself now but the couch, wrapped the blanket around her so as to not soak the cushion completely, and sat down, awkwardly fidgeting with her wet dress. However, a wet dress was better any day than a strike by lighting, and she was happy to not have to return all the way home in this storm. “I like your home,” Narbeleth complimented, and it was indeed the truth. “It reminds me of our home in Belfalas when I was little, before we moved here.”
And it was the truth. Small and cozy, and lit by a lovely orange fire. The children of Faelon, at least the first three of them, had experienced a cozy home in their youth. Of course they had moved up to a grander scale when Father had accepted the job in the Palace Stables. But all the same, Beleth enjoyed such a home, and secretly wished that someday she would be allowed the grace to live in a lovely little place of the sorts. The home they lived in now was quite fine, and Narbeleth was certainly grateful for it, though she had never imagined herself with such a large family to need one, and she would much rather spend her time outside, opposed to spending it all cleaning a mansion.
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Aug 16, 2009 20:12:04 GMT -5
“And I am glad I knew as well. Faeldor pointed out the house to me… last week… in passing…”
Beregar immediately tensed and crossed his arms, though did direct his attentions elsewhere. To the dancing flames he cast his eye, for they seemed to hide the own fire within his. Niniel glanced somewhat apprehensively at her husband and answered, “I am glad for it.”
She gave quite a stern look to Beregar, one that clearly read “hold your temper in front of the guests”, before turning a bright smile to the two as they proceeded in making themselves comfortable. Narbeleth seemed hesitant to sit upon the couch, though, and for a moment Niniel was nervous as to why. She assumed it was because she did not wish to dampen the cloth, though she had no other seat to offer herself. For a moment the woman was saddened by such a thing; surely Narbeleth was used to ample seating. Finally, the pretty young woman had found her seat.
“Is Gilwen here?”
Niniel smiled, though Narbeleth had done well in her answer. “Yes, dear one, Gilwen is quite busy at work,” the woman added. Quite busy earning wages that were going to allow them keep of their home, and to pay for the juice and bread that she had gifted their visitors.
It was not their last bit, though close to it. They had been having a hard time going to the market since Beregar’s display with the ale from the tavern. Still, had it been her last bit, she still would have given the children the rest. She was a mother to all children; if they gave her the chance or time to care for them.
“I think Hali does love Gilwen as much as our brother does.”
Beregar scoffed, though caught himself from making a further remark and cleared his throat as if to mask and hide such a thing from Haliel, though Narbeleth had certainly heard it. Niniel glared for a moment, though quickly responded with all brightness, “Perhaps she will be home, then, in time for you to see her.” Though, the possibility was slim. Gilwen had not come home before midnight the past few days. It was quite a grueling work schedule she was putting herself through.
“I like your home. It reminds me of our home in Belfalas when I was little, before we moved here.”
Beregar seemed a bit surprised by such a thing. He had known that that blasted man and his family resided on the sixth tier. He had known, by his daughter’s words, that they had come from Belfalas. What he had not known was that they had not always been well off. While such newfound knowledge could do well to change someone’s opinion and take on matters that he had thus far delivered judgment on, he did not allow himself such leeway.
“Oh, thank you.” Niniel replied quietly. She was rather flustered with having guests of such a class in her home. She did not wish to spoil Gilwen’s image with them, for while she was certain that they would not pass over her for her lack of wealth, she knew very little about the rest of them. Being poor also made it hard for her to see what they would like about such a place to live; she loved it, for it was here that Beregar and she had moved after they had been wed. Where Gilwen had been born, and where she had lived for most of her life. Still, if she had the home that Gilwen had described for Faeldor’s family, she never would have given such a house a second glance.
Beregar studied the two young women; both were indeed young enough to be his own daughters. Such a thought seemed to soften the man. He had always desired more children. If the Valar had willed such a thing, he would have been ecstatic. He, though, had been unable to; save for his Gilwen. He recalled vaguely that Gilwen had mentioned that Faeldor had many siblings. But there was only one in particular he could recall, and her name escaped him completely. He did, though, remember that she had been the eldest of the girls. “Our home is comfortable for us,” he offered rather matter-of-factly. “Though, from what I have heard your family would not have room to be as comfortable.”
Niniel gave him a rather curious look, though quickly saw where this was going. She tried to shake her head and answer the question he was seeking, though he continued anyway. “Are you the eldest of the sisters Faeldor has?” The name was like a poison. Still, if this was the woman who had struck his own dear daughter he had a mind to let her walk right back out into the street. The little one, of course, could stay. Her blue eyes were rather entrancing and sweet. Something that immediately had Beregar thinking fondly of her. As if Haliel were his own little Gilwen.
Her eyes had been that bright once. She had been that small not that long ago. For a moment he was saddened, though he quickly recovered himself well enough.
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Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 16, 2009 21:50:51 GMT -5
“Perhaps she will be home, then, in time for you to see her.” This brought a smile to Haliel’s lips. “Oh I hope so! Faeldor has not brought her over in an entire week, and I miss her.” Haliel did not realize how she was egging the negativity of the room on. Narbeleth did well not to wince, nor did she look at Beregar again.
“That would be a lovely surprise, if she made it home this afternoon,” she smiled. Her smile faded slightly though, as Beregar had changed the topic now, back to Beleth's own family.
“Are you the eldest of the sisters Faeldor has?” The tone was not as friendly as it had been moments before, and Beleth was certain she knew why. Of course, it seemed that Beregar wondered if she was the sister who had detested Gilwen and started the rumors, and hit her so a number of times. But had she not just said that Gilwen was her friend? Everyone in the city seemed to know Miriel, daughter of Faelon, and since their ages were so close, it was not easy to mistake lovely Beleth for her sister. Though Beleth loved Miriel, it was sometimes disappointing to be thought of as her, since their personalities were so differing.
“No, I am Faelon’s second daughter, third of the children. My elder sister, Miriel, has four years on me. Haliel here is the youngest, and there are two more in between us, Marileth, and Faelon the second.” Narbeleth’s voice was sweet, as if to not let it be known that she had caught the detestable tone of Beregar’s voice, or questioned his wonder of her ranking in the family. “There are six of us in all. And our grandparents live with us too. A rather large family… but there is always something exciting going on. I well enjoy it.”
Narbeleth was a bit uneasy under the look that Beregar seemed to have been giving her the entire time. Of course, she did not expect her own cheery nature to lighten him up as it seemed to do with others, for she had just met him. Though, with another quick glance, it seemed that he was looking fondly enough on Haliel. Who would not though? She knew her sister was precious to behold. Perhaps Haliel would do the trick.
Trying to relax slightly on the couch, and force a different topic to conversation, Narbeleth's eyes caught Niniel's sewing bag, and saw the cloth atop it. It seemed that she had been working on something before the two had come inside. Ladies always loved to talk of their craft. It seemed a good topic to breech. "What have you been working on?" Narbeleth asked curiously, looking to project. "Your sewing I mean. My grandmother sews often, it is quite the talent. I am not gifted in it though."
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Aug 16, 2009 22:18:00 GMT -5
“Oh I hope so! Faeldor has not brought her over in an entire week, and I miss her.”
This brought Niniel to smile, though Beregar seemed a bit confused as to whether he should smile or frown. Indeed, it was endearing to hear that the little girl speak so fondly of his daughter, though that name was detestable in his mind. Still, all he did was shift his weight and let the conversation flow naturally. He could hold himself in. He had to. His eyes shifted to his little Niniel once more and he took another deep breath. For her, he could do anything.
“Then I do hope she shall come. I am certain she misses you as well,” Niniel chimed in a loving fashion. She gave Beleth an apologetic look, for indeed her husband’s question to her had been rather rude. And unfounded! Even if Miriel had been the one to come to their home, they would still need to be warm and hospitable. Though, Niniel might have a time holding her own hand from that daughter herself, for she recalled the foul way she had spoken to her some weeks ago.
Once it was established this was not the sister that had bruised his daughter’s cheek, Beregar relaxed. My, their family was large. He had remembered that it had been, though the number of people Beleth mentioned was far more than he remembered there being. Still, he noted with great elation, she had not mentioned her elder brother’s name. That had righted his mood quickly. “I imagine it is quite exciting,” there was more than just a hint of Beregar’s wonder at such a family, and a bit of his own longing for his one of such a size.
Niniel would have loved to have mentioned that he would never know others in his family unless he allowed Gilwen to move on with her life and wed, but resisted. Now was not a good time. Unfortunately, the conversational change that Beleth had tried had not been so stealthy and sound as she was imagining it would be, but Niniel simply smiled and reached down to hold it up. “I do not sew often, I am afraid.” She laughed a bit. “But, I figure I should start. I have been working on a baby garment.” Her voice was so light and cheery that even Beregar felt a slight pang of brightness at the sight of the cloth, but restrained himself from smiling. “I do not think I have much talent in the way of a needle either, but Gilwen shall love to have this just the same.”
Any grandchild that came by that man. That Faeldor. How horrible, and dreadful it would be for his daughter. He was not, after all, going to be a good father. Let alone a husband. No. Beregar silently began to fume and frown from where he was. He flicked his eyes to the hallway he had come from and pictured his suit of armor that was now going to be unused. But it was the newly-sharpened sword that he pleasantly imagined grabbing. If he wanted to make sure he did nothing to his daughter, perhaps he should go remove the threat.
“But your grandmother sews often?” His wife’s words drew him from his happy mental images. That made him a bit sad, though he turned his attention to Niniel once more as she spoke again. “Is she a seamstress?”
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Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 16, 2009 23:51:04 GMT -5
“Indeed, it is exciting. One is never at a lacking for dance partners, or someone to run errands with. Even while most of the family was busy today, you see, I was blessed to spend time with my little sister,” she smiled at Haliel, who was sipping on her juice. Beregar seemed at least intrigued with the size of her family, and she wondered if he would have wished for more children. Perhaps, having only one daughter, was why he was so protective over her. Perhaps it was why Gilwen was so quaint and quiet as well.
Meleth had wild children, it was true, though they were raised well, and had been cared for and brought up with virtue. Narbeleth wondered if it would have been that way had she born only one child too, or if it were because of the multitude that the children of Faelon had so much spirit and freedom. Truly it would never be known, but she took her own mother as a spirited woman, and thought that likely it would have been the case no matter the number of children born. Beleth mused pleasantly on her family, who she loved, when Niniel showed her the lovely little garment she was sewing.
“Oh, a baby garment. How precious!” Narbeleth exclaimed, quite unwilling to hide her joy at the idea of Gilwen having a small baby of her own. And Faeldor certainly. Narbeleth was quite surprised that Niniel would make such a bold statement in front of her husband. Though, he had already seemed to know about it. He was frowning quite heavily though, as if it had been forced. Beleth though could not help her exclamation. She did love babies after all. She was not one to hesitate either, for she knew that Gilwen was not currently expecting, as some of the members of her family might imagine if Niniel had made the statement to them. Simply, she was looking toward the future. “It is quite a fine garment. I am certain she will love it.”
Haliel’s ears perked as well. Was Gilwen having a baby then? Oh she hoped it would be soon! She had enjoyed the short time with the baby this morning, and knew they were much more fun when they were just a bit older. She couldn’t wait until it was old enough to play with.
“But your grandmother sews often? Is she a seamstress?” Narbeleth smiled. She loved speaking of her grandmother, for of the six grandchildren who lived here in the city with her, Beleth had become the closest to her. “No, she is not a seamstress… by occupation anyhow. But she does have many children and grandchildren to sew for. And she takes it into her hands to sew for others as well. She is a midwife you see… she is always sewing baby clothes and necessities. She loves the families that she works with, truly. And is glad for the opportunity.
“I suppose, that if I wished to be more like her, I would learn to sew as well… but I just do not have the patience for it,” Narbeleth admitted. “But… I am a midwife as well, although at this time she still does supervise me, but I think only for my age. I truly enjoy the livelihood. It is such a pleasant task, to see families receive the best gift they could ever ask for.”
Beleth’s voice was quite happy, though there was no hint of longing in it. Most woman desired children as soon as they were of age to bear them, though Narbeleth thought that she would do quite well without them. Well, without many anyhow. If she were to marry she would surely wish to give her husband a son heir, and to train up a daughter in good and proper ways. But… at the same, she had always been more the adventurous type, and would perhaps have trouble settling herself to raise children. Though she had loved growing up in her large family, a quaint one was what she desired for her own adulthood.
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Gilwen
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There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
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Post by Gilwen on Aug 17, 2009 0:22:20 GMT -5
Both of Gilwen’s parents’ face seemed to read somewhat of a longing and sadness. Indeed, to hear of the perks of a large family was enough to make them both fall into a sadness that they did not have such a blessing. Niniel, though, was thrilled with her daughter. Beregar was too. Truly, she had been everything that they could have wanted. Or, at least until now. That, of course, was only felt by Beregar. Nonetheless, Niniel had to forcibly thrust the sadness from her by looking back to her baby garment. Gilwen would be able to have children. And that would please her well enough.
Beleth certainly seemed to like it, too. Beregar wondered momentarily if she knew something about his daughter that they were unaware of. In truth, she did not seemed at all shocked by the prospect of having a baby garment for Gilwen in the making.
Haliel seemed to perk up, too. They, for their living with Faeldor, would know him well. For a moment Beregar got a bit defensive and once more pictured the sword in the back room. If either of them thought it was possible, then certainly Faeldor needed to be taught a lesson.
And to press it further! Beleth was a midwife! No wonder he was so confident in his lewdness. If Gilwen, or any other unsuspecting woman, had become with child by him, his sister would be able to tell him how to handle it properly. Niniel, though, was quite happy to learn of such things. This meant, of course, that someday her daughter would be in great care.
“Oh, that does sound splendid!” Niniel exclaimed brightly, clasping her hands in front of her once more. “Isn’t that nice, Beregar?” He grunted in response, though shot his eyes away from the guests. “Oh, Gilwen will be in fine hands, I am certain.” That, of course, seemed a bit brazen and bold. Though, Beleth was certain to understand it properly. Beregar shifted uneasily though, and looked to Niniel sharply.
He decided that he should be the one to guide the conversation next. The topics his wife chose were not exactly to his liking. The little girl seemed to have fallen silent. It was to her he spoke, and despite his size, the voice was quite gentle. “You seem tired, little one.”
Niniel startled at the name, for indeed that was what he used to call their own daughter, though smiled slightly to hear his fatherly tone once more being put to use. She did agree, though, Haliel seemed rather drowsy. Still, it could have simply been a product of having absolutely nothing to speak of herself. Adult conversations were not interesting to one of her age.
Beregar seemed to decide on this at the same time and stood, moving back toward his chamber to go to his closet. It took restraint not to grasp the metal sword and march off into the tumultuous weather, but he managed to return to the room with a very aged and worn bundle of cloth. He presented it to the little girl with a rather brisk smile. It was a doll, not a fine one like she was used to, no doubt, but one made from scraps of cloth that had been lying about the house one day. It had belonged to Gilwen when she was little. “Here you go,” he said lightly. “This was Gilwen’s when she was your age. But I think she has been rather lonely upon our shelf. Would you play with her for a bit?”
Niniel smiled to herself. That was the man she had fallen in love with. That was the man she was proud to call her husband. “What a great idea. I think Gilwen would like it if you took care of her for a while.” Inwardly, both parents were a bit nervous. Would Haliel dislike it? For it was not at all what a little girl was used to playing with. Gilwen had adored it, but Gilwen had never owned anything better.
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Narbeleth
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Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 17, 2009 8:34:01 GMT -5
“You seem tired, little one.” In truth, Haliel had been quite drowsy, and found herself dozing off quite easily, with the warmth of the blanket and fire, and the bread and juice in her little belly, it was difficult for one so young to stay awake.. The walk, which had been good exercise for the frail little girl had also made her weary. The steady rhythm of rain on the roof did nothing to help her
“It was a long walk for her,” Narbeleth suggested, glancing to her sister at Beregar’s statement. The man seemed to have softened his voice for the sake of Haliel. She would be the one to win favor in the eyes of even a man like Beregar, Narbeleth mused. She was quite a precious and well behaved child. If only because her disability and slower pace kept her from causing mischief as the other children of Faelon had.
Haliel did not say anything, but tried to wake herself up, for the nice man had noticed she was falling asleep. Oh, she should never fall asleep as a guest in someone’s home! Beleth would tell her that later… her sister would probably lecture her for the entire walk back, she mused. Beregar had left the room now, and she wondered if it was her fault. She liked Gilwen’s papa, she decided. There was something about him that she was taken by. Perhaps the simple fact that he was a papa, when she had never known her own. She would be the only one in the Faeldor household to never judge the man sharply at times, for once Haliel adored a person, that lovely image of them stuck in their mind.
Narbeleth was a bit mystified as well, when Beregar returned to the room with a bundle in his arms. What was it? As soon as Beregar began to speak, she knew it though. A little doll, it seemed, and it had been Gilwen’s very own. How precious that they should keep it all these years; though Narbeleth had not thought of it, she was certain now that her own mother had done the same things.
But Beregar presented the little girl with the doll to hold, and Haliel seemed to wake slightly, and was delighted. “Oh, thank you! She is lovely. What is her name?” she questioned excitedly, looking up at Beregar, as if he should know for certain the answer.
In truth, the doll was not as nice or lovely as the one Haliel played with at her own home, but Haliel, being the unjudgemental child she was, did not care. She was quite content to cuddle the little motherless doll in her arms and now quite awake. Beleth smiled pleasantly at Niniel, and then at Beregar. That they should care for her and her sister so well, that was quite a blessing. Even after what had ensued between them and her brother just last week. She would certainly remark to Faeldor on their kindness; especially that of Beregar.
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Gilwen
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There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
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Post by Gilwen on Aug 17, 2009 10:18:53 GMT -5
“It was a long walk for her.”
Niniel smiled slightly, and shifted her eyes back to little Haliel. Oh, the dear little thing! She had such blue eyes! Niniel was quite captivated with both of them. It did appear that Meleth not only had been blessed with ample children, but of lovely and handsome ones. Both inside and out. Well, for the most part. Miriel had outward beauty, though. The mother in her wished to carry the little thing to bed, though wondered if such was a good idea. This was, after all, an unfamiliar home, and the storm outside was rather terrifying.
Haliel eagerly accepted the doll, which made the bear of a man to smile. It had been some time since he had had a little girl in his house. His heart was heavy that his own was now an adult. Something that had been brought to his attention that morning by his wife. It seemed like yesterday she was clinging to his leg when he was off to work, begging him not to go. He was only saddened for a moment though, for Haliel was immediately bright-eyed and loving to the little dollbaby. Beregar was asked a question of utmost importance. What was the baby's name?
Niniel, for the life of her, couldn't remember what it was Gilwen had called the doll. It had had a name, certainly. It was slightly embarrassing for the woman, though all she did was shift and look to her husband. Certainly if she could not recall the name Gilwen had gifted to it, he would be unable to do so.
Beregar, though, could hear little Gilwen's voice in his head as she had introduced her to the doll. "Papa, Papa! I want you to meet Anna!" Gift, she had called it. Because she had been convinced that the Valar had blessed her with the rag doll. "Her name is Anna, so named by my Gilwen." Beregar smiled a bit more, his gruff voice softening even more.
Niniel was certainly surprised that he had known such a thing, and inside her heart warmed a bit more for her husband. Perhaps it wasn't that he was a bad father that he was so adamant against Gilwen seeing the Stable Master; it was that he was too good of one, and did not wish to lose that job as well. What absurdity! Gilwen would always be their daughter. Marriage is just a step in life. Still, the woman was quite pleased that Beregar was behaving so well. Perhaps words could begin to be passed between them once more.
"Anna has been lonely for a long time; Gilwen has been unable to play with her properly." Niniel added. "I do believe she will be quite happy to play with you." Niniel turned her attentions to Beleth once more, for to make such a fuss over her sister and forget her was rude, and that was one thing neither Niniel nor Beregar would have. She seemed quite happy and pleased. Undoubtedly this was not the Beregar she had been expecting. Niniel took a glance at the little girl who was so wrapped up in the doll, then to Beregar who was watching her with a tad of protectiveness.
He assumed that the child would wish to play with her on the floor. That, in her home, most likely, was not a problem and none had to worry. But in the smallness of their own house, it would put Haliel rather close to the fire. Gilwen herself had almost fallen in a few times. Luckily, Beregar was a fast and tall man.
Either way, his attentions were elsewhere as well, and Niniel offered, "He loves children." There, in three words, Niniel utterly destroyed Beregar's fierceness. "Now, Narbeleth," she continued.
He seemed aware of the fact and looked to her for a moment with a bit of annoyance. Just what he needed; Beleth running home and telling her brother that it was okay to be with his daughter. That he liked children and wanted more. Lovely, Niniel. Lovely.
"Can I get you anything else? Some more juice, perhaps?" Niniel continued, paying her soldier no mind.
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Narbeleth
Man
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Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 18, 2009 11:58:24 GMT -5
“Anna…” Haliel muttered, smiling. “Thank you for letting me play with her,” she said, quite amazed, and looking up at Beregar. Haliel was used to going on visits into peoples’ homes; she was always with Beleth, or Mama, or Grandmother. But rarely did people pay her so much mind, or offer to let her play! Her rosy lips were curled up in the loveliest of smiles, and her blue eyes were shining.
“I am perfectly fine, thank you,” Narbeleth answered politely when Niniel asked if she needed anything. “I am certainly glad for the warmth.” She looked up as the thunder rumbled overhead, and there was lighting outside the window. “I do hope that nobody else is stranded outside. My grandparents and the children surely would have made it home before the storm struck.” The young woman stared out the window for some moments, just watching the darkness of the sky and the rain falling. She was mesmerized by storms, and loved to simply watch them.
“Would you like to play too?” Haliel asked Beregar with big eyes. Little Haliel was not around grown men often; usually just in the company of her family. There was grandfather and Faeldor, and she would sit on their laps and play, and at times they would join her in the grass of the gardens, and watch her while they sprawled in the grass; but that was playing enough for Haliel. Of course Faeldor had humored her with tea parties and other such imaginary games since she was young; she was the littlest after all, and each in the family loved her so. She was the gift given to them; when their father passed away.
Then there was Durion, Miriel’s friend; he had visited the home a right number of times in the past weeks. Haliel did not like Durion. He was mean to her; and ignored her. Ever since the first she had met him, when he came to their dinner party a couple weeks back, she had avoided him like the plague when he visited. But Beregar! Gilwen’s papa was quite lovely, and she already adored him, she waited for an answer, looking up at him with shining eyes, and cuddling little Anna.
Narbeleth was a slight amused, but wondered what the burly man would say. He did seem rather soft towards Haliel. Niniel must have spoken the truth when she said that he loved children. She tried not to stare at him as she waited for a response, and instead turned back to Niniel, wondering what was a safe topic to talk about. Narbeleth would have loved to speak more about her elder brother, and Niniel’s daughter, as the other woman seemed to favor the topic. Though, it was also quite forbidden. “Did you grow up here in the city? Or are you from the country as well?” she asked the woman, curious as to their family history. It seemed a safe enough subject.
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Gilwen
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There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
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Post by Gilwen on Aug 18, 2009 15:15:34 GMT -5
“Thank you for letting me play with her.”
Beregar’s attempt at remaining imposing and threatening in the eyes of the eldest sister—he did assume that she would report to that Faeldor of how he presented himself, and he did want to the man to be quite wary of coming around the home or his daughter—his entire front dissipated instantly when the little girl smiled up at him so.
He knew he was looking at another’s daughter, though felt in his heart that she was his own. The smile and shining eyes reminded him so much of Gilwen when she was younger; and holding the doll? The soldier could see the day that his little one had received it. Both of them had been wary she would be disappointed, for they had seen her eye the toy shop in the market many times, but she had hugged her and cherished her. Just like Haliel.
Niniel looked to him from under her lashes feeling rather pleased with herself. Later, she could softly remind him that such children could be born to their daughter, if he would simply allow Faeldor acceptance. Oh, What a fine subject of thought it was! Beleth and Haliel were previews to Faeldor’s own children. Entirely lovely, in both personality and physique. Gilwen would never have anything but fair children, with Faeldor’s help.
Niniel’s thoughts would have caused her daughter to blush and husband to anger, but her own face was quite pleasant and pleased. It was only Beleth’s mention of the storm that drew her attentions elsewhere. Otherwise, there was no telling what would go through dear Niniel’s mind!
“Would you like to play too?”
Beregar looked down to the little thing, all wrapped up in the blanket and clutching at the doll. How could one have said no to such a beauty? Well, perhaps because her brother was foul. Though, should every child be punished for the two of them that had wronged his family? So, he smiled. “Certainly. It does seem a fine way to pass a storm.”
He looked about the room, “Shall we play nearer the fire?” He could keep her from getting too close. Still, she needed to leave the blanket behind. He had noticed her leg when she had entered, so the strong man approached her and lifted her from the blanket and into his arms. While the little thing was in his house, he would tend to her well enough that she need not bother herself with walking. Her brace had not yet dried, so he imagined that it was not well to make her walk. He lowered her, gently, to the stone floor and grabbed the blanket once more to wrap around her and squatted himself. “Now, what shall we play?”
Niniel felt very triumphant at such a statement and show of fatherhood from the man. She had always thought he had done a fine job and would have done well with more children. Still, before the woman could grow sad at her barrenness, Narbeleth spoke to her. “Yes, I did grow up here in the city. My father was a caretaker, and lived here upon the third tier.” She had actually been born a mere ten houses down. “Beregar’s family ran an herb shop here as well. That is how we met, actually.” Niniel recounted fondly.
For her job as a caretaker, at times she would be called to purchase healing herbs. Beregar, before training to become a soldier, had helped his own parents in the shop they kept. With none to take over the job, his parents had sold the little place when they were quite ready to, and moved to Lebennin to retire in the land of their forefathers. Both of their parents had since passed away, and to keep her tears away, Niniel changed the subject. “I do say that growing up in a closed city has it’s disadvantages,” Niniel mused aloud. “In Belfalas, I am sure children could play more readily. Here…it is too dangerous to let them wander to the Pelennor alone.”
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Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 22, 2009 16:31:43 GMT -5
“Oh, so you grew up together,” the young woman preened with a smile. She was quite the taker for stories of the sort, of how people met and fell in love. It was not that young Narbeleth was a frivolous woman, for she certainly was not, but she simply loved people. She could not contain her enjoyment of people, and to hear how people had come to enjoy each other. She did not pry though; for such would be impolite of a young woman. She simply smiled to herself.
“I do say that growing up in a closed city has it’s disadvantages. In Belfalas, I am sure children could play more readily. Here…it is too dangerous to let them wander to the Pelennor alone.”
Beleth agreed entirely. It was certain that her family had a great share of freedom growing up. True, Faeldor had only lived in Belfalas until he was perhaps three… and then they had moved to the city; but there were those months each year. Every year in the summer they would venture to their home, and the children could go out for the day without any worry.
The young woman was certain that some of her family’s… well, what should she call it? Wildness… Some of their wild and impulsive behaviours were certainly from being brought up in such a way; allowed to wander and play as they pleased in the woods and by the sea. There was no worry for the children in those days, that someone might harm them; for the neighbors that were spread upon the countryside were just as carefree as they had been. They might welcome the children over for a meal, and the adults would never know the better of it.
Of course, Beleth knew better than to call her own family wild in front of Beregar, for he would certainly have fault against them. Miriel and Faeldor both had the same wildness and impulsiveness as Beleth herself did; and both of their actions had come down hard against this family. Miriel’s firey temper had injured their Gilwen in both word and deed, and Faeldor had taken the woman from the city on more than one occasion without Beregar’s heed.
“That is true; we were never allowed out alone on the streets here in the city, and we only ventured onto the Pelennor with father when we were young. Even now that I am grown, my brother will not allow me out alone there, though at times I do wish it. Though, nobody paid heed when we spent our summers in Belfalas.”
Haliel, meanwhile, was paying no mind to her sister, and basking in the simple affection of the man that was playing with her. He had picked her up and moved her and she did not even have to ask! She could have walked without her brace, it was certain, though she was so likely to stumble and fall that she barely did so. He had even brought the blanket down for her.
The man asked the little girl what she wished to play, and Haliel thought for a moment. She was not certain what she wished to play either; but she was afraid that Beregar would leave if she did not answer quickly. The little bit of longing that any young child could have at a time like this came out. If only there was someone in her own family to play with her as such! If only she had her own papa! It was quite unfair that she did not, she thought to herself. But Beregar had offered to play with her now. “You will be the papa, and Anna and I will be the daughters,” Haliel said brightly.
Beleth heard her sister’s words, and eyed her for a moment, almost biting her lip. Oh Haliel! She would say such a thing at a time like this. Faeldor had told her well of Beregar’s anger at his own daughter, and now Haliel was going to remind him by saying such a thing. Oh, if only it would not upset him, she prayed.
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