Disclaimer: LOTR belongs to the creative genius of JRR
Tolkien, not me.
My Friend, My Brother
Chapter 7. Destiny
The next morning Legolas was dismayed to find Aragorn making preparations for his journey back to Rivendell.
"I hope you are not leaving because of the song I sang last night?" he asked. "I thought it was very appropriate, and meant no offence."
"No, the song was sung beautifully and was much appreciated." Aragorn said, smiling at his friend. "Unfortunately I can stay no longer, it is time I made my way home. Gandalf should be there by now, and the matter of finding Gollum is still to be addressed."
"Gandalf? Who is he?" Legolas asked, "I thought you were meeting Mithrandir?"
Aragorn laughed at his friend's confusion. "Gandalf the Grey is the name he is called by the many of the other Races of Middle Earth."
"I did not know that. I wonder how many other names he is known by?" he mused." It seems that having more than one name is common these days, is it not Estel?" Aragorn smiled at the use of the name Elrond had given him.
"Oh well, no matter. I will be sorry to see you go." Legolas said sincerely, noticing that the Healer had provided Aragorn with some of the medicinal herbs he used for spider poison.
"I was hoping to convince you to come with me this time." His friend said producing a second travel bag, already packed with provisions. "That is of course, if you can be spared from your princely duties and the attentions of the maids," teased Aragorn.
"I am sure that is possible," Legolas acknowledged haughtily, "but tell me, Aragorn, is it companionship you require or someone to protect you from the formidable Lord Elrond when you ask for his daughter's hand?"
Aragorn laughed and clapped his friend on the shoulder, "Yes, I would enjoy having your company but it is not the wrath of Elrond that I fear, it is that of my good lady mother who entreated me to bring you to Rivendell next time an opportunity arose. I dare not disobey her."
"Nor should you. I would be honoured to meet the Lady Gilraen. I will seek Father's permission immediately," he replied enthusiastically and promptly disappeared. Aragorn wondered if he should tell the Elf how unnerving he found it when he seemingly 'vanished into thin air', but wisely decided against the idea. No need to provide Legolas with another source of amusement.
Thranduil had no objections to the proposed trip and as soon as they had partaken of the noon meal, the two friends started on their journey to Rivendell. It was several days journey at the speed they travelled and Aragorn spent much of the time elaborating on his adventures over the last few decades. Legolas was fascinated by his friend's stories, but also alarmed that the threat of Sauron's re-emergence was becoming more real, that there was evidence of the Shadow in many of the places Aragorn had been.
*******
As they entered the gates of Rivendell, Gilraen was waiting to meet them and happily flung herself into the open arms of her son. Legolas watched the joyful reunion in silence. Even though she had been gone since he was a small child, his grief at the loss of his own mother could still overwhelm him at times. He started when he heard his name being called rather loudly.
"Legolas!" Aragorn called for the second time. "Are you all right?" He noted with concern the melancholy look in the Elf's eyes as he finally responded.
"Yes," he replied simply, but not truthfully. Gilraen moved to stand beside her son and Aragorn introduced her to his friend. Legolas took her hand and kissed it lightly.
"I am honoured to make your acquaintance, my Lady," he said with all the charm and grace he possessed. Legolas thought she was still a truly beautiful woman, despite her advancing years.
"I am pleased to meet you, too, Legolas, though I am truly sorry that our first meeting brought back such a sad memory for you." She had not missed the grief on the young Elf's face, and was well able to guess the cause. The loss of the Queen of Mirkwood to the call of the sea so many years ago had been a day mourned even in Rivendell. "I hope your stay with us will be a happy one."
"I am sure it will be, thank you," he said, forcing a smile.
"Come with me," she said taking them each of them by the arm, "I have prepared a guest room in our apartments for Legolas, and once you have both refreshed yourselves, I want to hear all about your adventures."
Gilraen had set a table on the balcony where they could enjoy the cool evening breeze and relax with the gentle susurration of the waterfall in the background. Legolas found Aragorn's mother to be delightful, and not afraid of telling stories of Aragorn as a child, much to his friend's annoyance.
Gilraen, in turn, listened intently as Aragorn told her of his experiences in the south and of the darkness he could see casting a shadow over the lands. Elrond had hinted that the last King of Men would be needed to defeat the evil that was arising, and Gilraen felt it as well, but she said nothing to Aragorn. When he told her that he had met Arwen again, in Lorien, and that they had plighted their troth, she became very upset.
"I told you before that such a match was not suitable, and I am sure Elrond would agree. I doubt that he will wish to give his daughter to a Mortal."
"The deed is done, Mother. I will ask Elrond for Arwen's hand, as is proper." Aragorn replied. He was angry with her, although he had expected this response, for his mother thought it unwise for Man and Elf to wed. "In fact, I will speak with him now."
Legolas put a hand out to restrain him as he stood and made to leave. "Do not act in haste, my friend. At least let your anger cool before you enter into what will apparently be a difficult discussion." Aragorn snorted,
"That is an understatement, but there is sense in what you say."
"Legolas is right," added Gilraen sensing that Aragorn had calmed down somewhat and hoping for more support from the elf. "I would like to hear his opinion on this matter. What say you, Legolas?"
"I do not wish to become involved in a disagreement between mother and son," he said, "all I will say is that I know how much Aragorn loves Arwen, and I am very happy for them both. He has won the heart of an Elf, not an easy thing to do, and impossible to undo. I am sure that with patience and understanding, a love as true as theirs will overcome all obstacles." Aragorn looked at his friend with gratitude for both his sentiments and the silent support he felt coming from him. Gilraen was not pleased with Legolas' answer, but said nothing. It was obvious that Aragorn could not be swayed from his decision.
"I suggest you get some sleep and confront Elrond in the morning when your thinking will be clearer," she said. In this, both Legolas and Aragorn agreed.
*******
Early the next morning Aragorn steeled himself to his task and made his way to Elrond's library. Legolas was waiting for him in the hallway,
"I have come to wish you luck," he said with a grin. Aragorn returned the smile and replied,
"I think I will need it." He entered the library and found Elrond and Gandalf talking quietly on the balcony. Elrond looked around as he heard the young man approach.
"Ah, Estel. I was just about to send for you. Gandalf here believes he knows where Gollum is to be found."
"Greetings Gandalf, that is indeed good news. It is past time that he was placed safely in the care of Mirkwood. Do you also have news of the One Ring? Has it been found?" Aragorn was relieved that his conversation with Elrond had been delayed; he was beginning to feel rather nervous about the whole thing.
"One question at a time, please." Gandalf replied. "Gollum was recently seen heading towards Mordor, not a destination one would choose unless he had good reason. I believe he has lost the Ring and thinks that it is to be found in the Dark Lord's possession."
"That makes sense," said Elrond. "If he has lost the Ring, where is it? I am certain it is not in Mordor."
"Only Gollum has the answer to that question, hence the need to capture him as soon as possible." Replied Gandalf. "Aragorn and I should begin the search immediately."
"I agree," said Aragorn. "We can be ready to leave in a few hours, but first I would like a private word with Elrond."
"As you wish. Send for me when your preparations are complete."
As soon as the door closed behind the wizard, Aragorn drew a deep breath and spoke.
"I do not wish to alienate you, Lord Elrond, for you have been like a father to me, but I wish to ask you for Arwen's hand in marriage." Elrond poured himself a glass of wine and walked out onto the balcony, glaring at Aragorn but saying nothing. Galadriel had already informed him of Arwen's choice, but he did not want his beloved daughter bound to a Mortal. The longer the silence stretched, the more Aragorn feared that his request would be denied. Finally Elrond spoke, his voice like ice.
"Although I love you like a son, Estel, I shall not permit Arwen to be the bride of any Man less than the King of both Gondor and Arnor."
"You know that is the destiny I have chosen to exile myself from, for I neither seek nor want such power. However, it is but a small price to pay for her hand. One day I will claim the Throne to which I am heir, and she will be my Queen. Until that day arrives she is still your daughter." He answered, disappointed that he had guessed Elrond's answer correctly.
"So be it," agreed Elrond, hoping that day would never come. "I believe you have preparations to make. I will bid you farewell and wish you success in your hunt for Gollum." Aragorn knew a dismissal when he heard one and with a polite bow to Elrond he left the room.
Legolas found him standing on a small, secluded bridge underneath which a stream of clear water flowed. He could tell by his dejected stance that all had not gone well and he moved to his friend's side, offering silent support until Aragorn was ready to speak.
"Mother was right about Elrond, he does not approve. He does not wish Arwen to be bound to a Mortal."
"My father warned me of the dangers of befriending a mortal as well. Like Arwen I chose otherwise. What else did he say, for I can sense that is not all that is upsetting you?"
"He will not give his consent unless I become the King of Gondor and Arnor." Aragorn replied with a small measure of anger in his voice. It seemed that his unwanted destiny was being forced upon him.
"Are you not the rightful heir?" Legolas asked.
"Yes, but I do not wish to claim the throne, I have never wanted it. That is why I chose to remain in exile. I suppose you find that difficult to understand, Prince Legolas?" he asked unable to hide his despair from his friend.
"I have never wanted the throne, either." Legolas admitted to Aragorn's surprise. "I have seen how difficult the life of a King, who is suffering eternal grief at the loss of his father, can be. I do not think I would have the strength to endure."
"I never thought of it like that. My father is dead, and I am the last of the line of Kings and I do not think I can be what is expected of me."
"Not even for Arwen?" Legolas asked quietly. "If she knows you as well as I do, I am sure she has complete faith in you, that you will find the strength to fulfil your destiny. Take your strength from us, for I will always be at your side and she will always be in your heart." The passion and conviction in the Elf's voice and words moved Aragorn deeply.
"I have no words to thank you, my friend," he said, his voice raw with emotion. "I will accept Elrond's challenge."
"And I shall sing at your wedding." Legolas promised, pleased to see the smile returned to Aragorn's eyes.
"I look forward to that day," he replied happily. "Now I must prepare for a hunting expedition with Gandalf. Gollum has been seen heading for Mordor."
My Friend, My Brother
Chapter 7. Destiny
The next morning Legolas was dismayed to find Aragorn making preparations for his journey back to Rivendell.
"I hope you are not leaving because of the song I sang last night?" he asked. "I thought it was very appropriate, and meant no offence."
"No, the song was sung beautifully and was much appreciated." Aragorn said, smiling at his friend. "Unfortunately I can stay no longer, it is time I made my way home. Gandalf should be there by now, and the matter of finding Gollum is still to be addressed."
"Gandalf? Who is he?" Legolas asked, "I thought you were meeting Mithrandir?"
Aragorn laughed at his friend's confusion. "Gandalf the Grey is the name he is called by the many of the other Races of Middle Earth."
"I did not know that. I wonder how many other names he is known by?" he mused." It seems that having more than one name is common these days, is it not Estel?" Aragorn smiled at the use of the name Elrond had given him.
"Oh well, no matter. I will be sorry to see you go." Legolas said sincerely, noticing that the Healer had provided Aragorn with some of the medicinal herbs he used for spider poison.
"I was hoping to convince you to come with me this time." His friend said producing a second travel bag, already packed with provisions. "That is of course, if you can be spared from your princely duties and the attentions of the maids," teased Aragorn.
"I am sure that is possible," Legolas acknowledged haughtily, "but tell me, Aragorn, is it companionship you require or someone to protect you from the formidable Lord Elrond when you ask for his daughter's hand?"
Aragorn laughed and clapped his friend on the shoulder, "Yes, I would enjoy having your company but it is not the wrath of Elrond that I fear, it is that of my good lady mother who entreated me to bring you to Rivendell next time an opportunity arose. I dare not disobey her."
"Nor should you. I would be honoured to meet the Lady Gilraen. I will seek Father's permission immediately," he replied enthusiastically and promptly disappeared. Aragorn wondered if he should tell the Elf how unnerving he found it when he seemingly 'vanished into thin air', but wisely decided against the idea. No need to provide Legolas with another source of amusement.
Thranduil had no objections to the proposed trip and as soon as they had partaken of the noon meal, the two friends started on their journey to Rivendell. It was several days journey at the speed they travelled and Aragorn spent much of the time elaborating on his adventures over the last few decades. Legolas was fascinated by his friend's stories, but also alarmed that the threat of Sauron's re-emergence was becoming more real, that there was evidence of the Shadow in many of the places Aragorn had been.
*******
As they entered the gates of Rivendell, Gilraen was waiting to meet them and happily flung herself into the open arms of her son. Legolas watched the joyful reunion in silence. Even though she had been gone since he was a small child, his grief at the loss of his own mother could still overwhelm him at times. He started when he heard his name being called rather loudly.
"Legolas!" Aragorn called for the second time. "Are you all right?" He noted with concern the melancholy look in the Elf's eyes as he finally responded.
"Yes," he replied simply, but not truthfully. Gilraen moved to stand beside her son and Aragorn introduced her to his friend. Legolas took her hand and kissed it lightly.
"I am honoured to make your acquaintance, my Lady," he said with all the charm and grace he possessed. Legolas thought she was still a truly beautiful woman, despite her advancing years.
"I am pleased to meet you, too, Legolas, though I am truly sorry that our first meeting brought back such a sad memory for you." She had not missed the grief on the young Elf's face, and was well able to guess the cause. The loss of the Queen of Mirkwood to the call of the sea so many years ago had been a day mourned even in Rivendell. "I hope your stay with us will be a happy one."
"I am sure it will be, thank you," he said, forcing a smile.
"Come with me," she said taking them each of them by the arm, "I have prepared a guest room in our apartments for Legolas, and once you have both refreshed yourselves, I want to hear all about your adventures."
Gilraen had set a table on the balcony where they could enjoy the cool evening breeze and relax with the gentle susurration of the waterfall in the background. Legolas found Aragorn's mother to be delightful, and not afraid of telling stories of Aragorn as a child, much to his friend's annoyance.
Gilraen, in turn, listened intently as Aragorn told her of his experiences in the south and of the darkness he could see casting a shadow over the lands. Elrond had hinted that the last King of Men would be needed to defeat the evil that was arising, and Gilraen felt it as well, but she said nothing to Aragorn. When he told her that he had met Arwen again, in Lorien, and that they had plighted their troth, she became very upset.
"I told you before that such a match was not suitable, and I am sure Elrond would agree. I doubt that he will wish to give his daughter to a Mortal."
"The deed is done, Mother. I will ask Elrond for Arwen's hand, as is proper." Aragorn replied. He was angry with her, although he had expected this response, for his mother thought it unwise for Man and Elf to wed. "In fact, I will speak with him now."
Legolas put a hand out to restrain him as he stood and made to leave. "Do not act in haste, my friend. At least let your anger cool before you enter into what will apparently be a difficult discussion." Aragorn snorted,
"That is an understatement, but there is sense in what you say."
"Legolas is right," added Gilraen sensing that Aragorn had calmed down somewhat and hoping for more support from the elf. "I would like to hear his opinion on this matter. What say you, Legolas?"
"I do not wish to become involved in a disagreement between mother and son," he said, "all I will say is that I know how much Aragorn loves Arwen, and I am very happy for them both. He has won the heart of an Elf, not an easy thing to do, and impossible to undo. I am sure that with patience and understanding, a love as true as theirs will overcome all obstacles." Aragorn looked at his friend with gratitude for both his sentiments and the silent support he felt coming from him. Gilraen was not pleased with Legolas' answer, but said nothing. It was obvious that Aragorn could not be swayed from his decision.
"I suggest you get some sleep and confront Elrond in the morning when your thinking will be clearer," she said. In this, both Legolas and Aragorn agreed.
*******
Early the next morning Aragorn steeled himself to his task and made his way to Elrond's library. Legolas was waiting for him in the hallway,
"I have come to wish you luck," he said with a grin. Aragorn returned the smile and replied,
"I think I will need it." He entered the library and found Elrond and Gandalf talking quietly on the balcony. Elrond looked around as he heard the young man approach.
"Ah, Estel. I was just about to send for you. Gandalf here believes he knows where Gollum is to be found."
"Greetings Gandalf, that is indeed good news. It is past time that he was placed safely in the care of Mirkwood. Do you also have news of the One Ring? Has it been found?" Aragorn was relieved that his conversation with Elrond had been delayed; he was beginning to feel rather nervous about the whole thing.
"One question at a time, please." Gandalf replied. "Gollum was recently seen heading towards Mordor, not a destination one would choose unless he had good reason. I believe he has lost the Ring and thinks that it is to be found in the Dark Lord's possession."
"That makes sense," said Elrond. "If he has lost the Ring, where is it? I am certain it is not in Mordor."
"Only Gollum has the answer to that question, hence the need to capture him as soon as possible." Replied Gandalf. "Aragorn and I should begin the search immediately."
"I agree," said Aragorn. "We can be ready to leave in a few hours, but first I would like a private word with Elrond."
"As you wish. Send for me when your preparations are complete."
As soon as the door closed behind the wizard, Aragorn drew a deep breath and spoke.
"I do not wish to alienate you, Lord Elrond, for you have been like a father to me, but I wish to ask you for Arwen's hand in marriage." Elrond poured himself a glass of wine and walked out onto the balcony, glaring at Aragorn but saying nothing. Galadriel had already informed him of Arwen's choice, but he did not want his beloved daughter bound to a Mortal. The longer the silence stretched, the more Aragorn feared that his request would be denied. Finally Elrond spoke, his voice like ice.
"Although I love you like a son, Estel, I shall not permit Arwen to be the bride of any Man less than the King of both Gondor and Arnor."
"You know that is the destiny I have chosen to exile myself from, for I neither seek nor want such power. However, it is but a small price to pay for her hand. One day I will claim the Throne to which I am heir, and she will be my Queen. Until that day arrives she is still your daughter." He answered, disappointed that he had guessed Elrond's answer correctly.
"So be it," agreed Elrond, hoping that day would never come. "I believe you have preparations to make. I will bid you farewell and wish you success in your hunt for Gollum." Aragorn knew a dismissal when he heard one and with a polite bow to Elrond he left the room.
Legolas found him standing on a small, secluded bridge underneath which a stream of clear water flowed. He could tell by his dejected stance that all had not gone well and he moved to his friend's side, offering silent support until Aragorn was ready to speak.
"Mother was right about Elrond, he does not approve. He does not wish Arwen to be bound to a Mortal."
"My father warned me of the dangers of befriending a mortal as well. Like Arwen I chose otherwise. What else did he say, for I can sense that is not all that is upsetting you?"
"He will not give his consent unless I become the King of Gondor and Arnor." Aragorn replied with a small measure of anger in his voice. It seemed that his unwanted destiny was being forced upon him.
"Are you not the rightful heir?" Legolas asked.
"Yes, but I do not wish to claim the throne, I have never wanted it. That is why I chose to remain in exile. I suppose you find that difficult to understand, Prince Legolas?" he asked unable to hide his despair from his friend.
"I have never wanted the throne, either." Legolas admitted to Aragorn's surprise. "I have seen how difficult the life of a King, who is suffering eternal grief at the loss of his father, can be. I do not think I would have the strength to endure."
"I never thought of it like that. My father is dead, and I am the last of the line of Kings and I do not think I can be what is expected of me."
"Not even for Arwen?" Legolas asked quietly. "If she knows you as well as I do, I am sure she has complete faith in you, that you will find the strength to fulfil your destiny. Take your strength from us, for I will always be at your side and she will always be in your heart." The passion and conviction in the Elf's voice and words moved Aragorn deeply.
"I have no words to thank you, my friend," he said, his voice raw with emotion. "I will accept Elrond's challenge."
"And I shall sing at your wedding." Legolas promised, pleased to see the smile returned to Aragorn's eyes.
"I look forward to that day," he replied happily. "Now I must prepare for a hunting expedition with Gandalf. Gollum has been seen heading for Mordor."