Title: Sacrifices and Fatherhood
Author: Adonnen Estenniel (
alphien)
Characters/Pairing: Éomer Éadig
Rating: PG
Book/Source: The Lord of the Rings
Disclaimer: Setting, characters, and genius belong to the Tolkien Estate. I make no money from this.
I lean back, smiling indulgently as the Halfling entertains my wife with anecdotes of Moria-balrogs and drums in the deep places. It’s harmless enough, though the memories are foul.
My son, small and innocent, nestles against my breast; his breath is a hot tickle against my neck. I clutch him tighter.
He will not know my terrors or fears. He will not fight as I have, or lose his companions to Shadow. Compared to his, mine is a grim life.
Was it all worth it?
I look at his slumbering face, peaceful and serene, and I see the answer.