Outcast

Chapter 1: Parting and Meeting

Elrond watched with intent Elf eyes as the horse's scuffed footprints faded to dust and both the steed and its rider were gone.

      He wondered dimly why he had made such a choice; was it truly for his daughter's own good, or was it his own selfishness – he wanted her with him in the Undying Lands; he wanted her with another immortal, another Elf.

      Estel had just said good-by to Elrond, if awkwardly and a bit angrily. The man was essentially his son, too, having been raised by Rivendell Elves from birth.

      His glance went to Arwen then, her eyes focusing on the distance where Estel's horse had taken him off – Arwen did not know where, for Elrond had not allowed him to bid farewell to her, though looking at her face he regretted that decision.

      Her gaze did not meet his. She did not speak as he left.

Thranduil greeted the young Man as he rode into Mirkwood, the Man's hair mussed up and his clothes ragged, in direct contrast to the elegant horse he rode.

      'I thought you would arrive,' he said shortly. 'Elrond sent word.' At Elrond's name, Estel stopped his horse.

      Even as the heir of Isildur, son of Arathorn, Estel hung his head as he dismounted, feeling unworthy compared to the mighty Elven king.

      'My son has been expecting you as well,' Thranduil continued.

      Dressed in green and brown robes, the relatively young Elf smiled briefly at Estel walking with one hand on the horse's ropes, only to have the Elven prince take the ropes and lead Estel's horse to the stable.

      'Legolas, mellonamin. It is truly good to see you again,' said Estel. A friend was always a good thing to have in hard times.

      'I heard you were coming. What brings you here, from Rivendell? What word bring you from Elrond?'

      'Alas,' the Ranger sighed, 'you were not told. I should think it best I find a place to stay, and-'

      'Estel, my friend. You are always welcome.'