"It – it was Darlon's idea!" The sheepish ranger eagerly pointed a finger in Darlon's direction.

Halbarad aimed his glare at the new focus of attention. Darlon raised his eyebrows, then said, "No! It was Erel's!"

Halbarad watched as each ranger passed the blame for the homely touch of Yule treats in his pack and the sprigs of evergreen around the fire tonight. Did they think him lonely? Whosever idea this was would hear what he thought of that – but each ranger continued to pass the blame as shamefully as children. Finally, Aragorn held the blame of the entire company. All looked to him for his response.

"Actually, Halbarad, it was – your wife who put me up to it." Aragorn smiled, although he, like the other 21 rangers, were as red as beets.