Curses followed, and invectives against his parentage. Under it all pattered the ceaseless clucking of the women.
Not long now. He heard them soothe.
The noise of distress reached its final crescendo; then a thin wailing eased his troubled brow. Losing patience, he assaulted the sanctuary, evading both keeper and midwife.
“Well?” he demanded. “What news?”
“M’lord Faramir, it’s a son.”
“Yes, but how is she?”