His Queen

Chapter 47 - Alana

The room was warm and inviting, with the glow of the fire casting a soft light on the stone walls. The candles added to the cozy atmosphere, their flickering flames dancing in the air. The small table was set for two, with a rustic tablecloth and simple yet elegant silverware. The roasted meat glistened in the firelight, making Alana's stomach growl with hunger. The air was filled with the delicious scent of roasted meat and fresh bread, making Alana's stomach grumble with hunger. The sweet aroma of the candles mixed with the smoky scent of the fire, creating a comforting blend. Alana's mouth watered at the sight of the roasted meat on the table. She imagined the savory flavor melting in her mouth as she took a bite.

As they settled into their seats, Alana couldn't help but marvel at how natural it felt to be here with Faramir, sharing a meal and enjoying each other's company. It was a welcome refuge from the weight of their duties and the looming threats that hung over the city.

They ate and drank, their conversation flowing easily from lighthearted jests to more serious matters of strategy and defense. Alana found herself captivated by Faramir's keen mind and gentle spirit, the way he spoke with such passion and conviction about protecting his people and his city.

As the evening wore on and the wine flowed freely, Alana felt a pleasant warmth spreading through her, a combination of the alcohol and Faramir's intoxicating presence. She leaned closer to him, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.

"You know, Faramir," Alana murmured, her eyes twinkling mischievously in the candlelight. "If we're going to be facing down an army of orcs together, I think it's only fair that we get to know each other a little better. Don't you agree?"

Faramir raised an eyebrow, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "And what exactly did you have in mind, my lady?"

Alana grinned impishly. "Oh, I don't know. Perhaps we could start with a little game. A question for a question. Nothing too serious, of course. Just a bit of fun to take our minds off the impending doom."

Faramir chuckled, leaning back in his chair and regarding her with an amused expression. "Very well, Alana. I accept your challenge. But be warned, I have been known to be quite the formidable opponent in games of wit and words."

"Is that so?" Alana smirked, her competitive nature rising to the surface. "Well then, Captain, let the games begin. I'll start." She tapped her chin thoughtfully. Alana pondered for a moment before a mischievous glint entered her eyes. "Alright, Faramir, first question: What's the most embarrassing thing that's ever happened to you during training?"

Faramir laughed, shaking his head. "Starting with the tough ones, I see." He took a sip of wine, his cheeks flushing slightly. "Well, there was this one time, back when I was just a young recruit. We were practicing archery, and I was determined to impress my instructor. I nocked an arrow, took aim, and let it fly with all the confidence in the world." He paused, a rueful grin spreading across his face. "Only to watch in horror as it veered completely off course and struck the instructor right in the backside."

Alana burst out laughing, nearly spilling her wine. "Oh, you didn't!"

Faramir nodded, chuckling at the memory. "I did. The poor man yelped like a kicked puppy and spent the rest of the day glaring at me as he limped around the training yard. I thought I was going to die of shame."

Alana couldn't contain her laughter, the musical sound ringing through the room. "That's absolutely priceless! I can already imagine the expression on your instructor's face."

Faramir grinned, his eyes twinkling with mirth. "It's a memory I've tried very hard to forget. But alas, it seems to have a way of resurfacing at the most inopportune moments." He leaned forward, fixing her with a playful stare. "Alright, my turn. What about you, Alana? Surely you must have a tale or two of embarrassment from your own training days."