Music drifted up from downstairs, yet another party to celebrate the coronation. But the king had slipped away some time ago, gathering his friends in this quiet room, the first time they'd all been alone together since Moria.
Aragorn smiled at them, the seven who had been his companions and the eighth, taking the place of his brother.
"Well?" he asked.
Pippin sighed. "That's my limit," he mumbled around a piece of cheese.
The others grumbled their agreement, tossing in their cards.
"I believe I've won again," said Gandalf.
"Not so fast," Aragorn said, laying down his cards. "Royal Flush."
