The Last Test

Aragorn looked down and fumbled nervously with the device in his hands.

“I cannot do this, Hal. I am afraid.”

“Everyone here knows your courage. This is your last test, and I know that you will not fail. You want your father's star, do you not?”

Aragorn sighed and reluctantly handed the wooden carving over to his cousin. Halbarad set fire to it and handed it back to him.

“Now do it, leave your last link to childhood behind.”

Aragorn nodded and turned his back to Halbarad. Suddenly a violent coughing ensued.
Halbarad patted him on the back.

“O, what did I tell you about inhaling smoke?”