Disclaimer: I do not own LOTR and I make no money from this.
A/N Sorry this story seems to have a mind of its own. We do not get to Moria this chapter but will in the next one or two. Hope you enjoy
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Sam watched Frodo nervously. His master was still picking at is first serving while Merry and Pippin were both on their thirds. The usually clear blue eyes were glazed and distant: seeing horrors visible only to him the gardener feared. "Mr Frodo, you need to eat something."
Putting his fork down the former ringbearer pushed his plate away. "Food does not appeal to me, Sam."
Before the gardener could think of a response Gimli entered the room with Legolas just behind him, the elf's eyes making a quick scan of the room. "Dain wants me to lead the scouts," the dwarf was saying.
Legolas glanced down at his friend. "That is a good move. You have survived Moria and can find your way around."
"You shoud come with me," Gimli inivited. "An elf already familiar with Moria would be heartening to the other elves and men."
"No," the elf answered immediately. His eyes moved t0 the door where Aragorn had just entered with Halbarad a pace behind him.
Gimli looked back and forth between the two before his eyes came to rest on the glowing One Ring and sorrowful knowledge lit his eyes. Closing his eyes a moment he laid a hand on Legolas' arm for comfort. He turned to leave but Aragorn joined them, calling Elrohir over as well.
For a moment the ranger was silent, clearly unsure of his next words. "I have a large favor to ask of both of you." Hesitantly he pulled a small bag out of his pocket. "I need these disposed of."
Not sure he wanted to know Gimli reached for the bag and opened it. It contained several gold bands with variously colored stones. It was a moment before the dwarf realized what he was holding. "The nine rings gifted to men?"
Aragorn nodded. "I need them destroyed in Mount Doom. The sooner the better." His haunted eyes went to the bag and he swallowed hard. "They call to the One, wanting to be wielded once more." Forcing himself to look into his brother and friend's eyes Aragorn made himself to go on. "I fear the additional temptation."
Nodding Elrohir reached to pull the bag shut. "We will leave as soon as I inform Glorfindel and Elladan. We are supposed to leave for Moria shortly."
"You will have time to catch up with them before they reach Moria," Aragorn hastened to assure them. "There are still things that need to be organized. I doubt they will leave before this afternoon."
For a moment the group was silent. "What of the Dwarven rings?" Gimli finally asked. "At the council it was said that Sauron had many of them."
"I have given those to Gandalf. What their fate is will be his decision. They do not call to me as the Nine do, but they were made by Sauron." With a quick nod of thanks he turned and took a seat at the table beside Frodo. Unknowingly echoing the hobbit he took only some toast to nibble on.
Sam looked back and forth between the two of them. "This is not healthy," he pronounced. "You are both to thin and I am sure you have not been eating."
In disgust Frodo shoved his plate away. "Just looking at it is making me sick." Against his will his eyes went to the ring glowing contentedly on Aragorn's finger. Using all his will he looked back to Sam. "I am not hungry."
Grabbing another slice of toast Aragorn put it on a clean plate and placed it in front of Frodo. "Much as I agree with you, Sam is right. We both have to eat to regain our strength."
Quietly Sam moved the ful plate away from the Frodo.
Frodo reluctantly nibbled on the toast. "Nothing feels right," he confessed to Strider. "I feel all lost and adrift." He closed his eyes. "I should have fought."
"No!" Aragorn soft yet forceful command silenced all conversation in the room, but the two paid no attention. "If you had done so you would never have had the chance to steal the ring from Sauron and right now all Middle-Earth would be under his dominion, our friends would be dead or prisoners and you and I would be in a hell even worse than the one that we had already faced." Lightly he touched the hobbit's shoulder. "You did what I could not and by doing so saved Middle-Earth."
Frodo swallowed hard. "I want to believe, but the nightmare. It won't leave me alone. And you are still living it. I should have had more strength!"
Slowly Aragorn shook his head. "No," he repeated softly. "Once Sauron had achieved the ring I do not think there would have been any other way for this to play out without Sauron succeeding." Here he caught and held Frodo's eyes. "I mean no disrespect to you, you are one of the strongest people of any race I have ever had the honor of knowing, but I do not think the ring would have accepted you as master. I am surprised it reckognized my claim and allowed me the power to use Sauron's trapped strength against him."
"But will I ever feel whole again?" he asked plaintively.
Shaking his head slightly Aragorn squeezed his shoulder. "I do not know, but I hope we can both find healing."
Before Frodo could reply Denethor came storming into the dining area. Watching him Sam half expected his head to explode he was so angry and red. "Just what is the meaning of this?" he demanded of Aragorn belligerantly, looming over the seated ranger. "How dare you send so many of my soldiers to do your dirty work."
The look in Aragorn's eyes as he slowly stood up caused Sam to flinch back in his chair. He had never seen the ranger so angry. "The soldiers of Minis Tirith fight alongside the other free people's of Middle-Earth." Despite the ire radiating from him his voice was low and controlled. "They are not your soldiers."
"I am steward," Denethor replied. "All of Gondor is under my control!"
Suddenly Sam found his attention pulled to Aragorn's hand. He could not stifle a gasp at what he saw. The thumb of Aragorn's left hand was lightly caressing the One Ring, which seemed to be glowing brighter. A shift beside him caused his eyes to shoot to Legolas. The elf had stationed himself about five feet behind the ranger, his bow out. The other ranger, Halbarad, had shifted to a position in front of Aragorn, hand resting lightly on his sword. Isildur's heir looked back and forth between the two, completely ignoring Denethor. Sam thought he could almost see the struggle as Aragorn dropped his hand to his side.
Denethor pushed himself closer. "Look at me when I am speaking to you, ranger!"
Aragorn's reaction was almost faster than Sam could see. The old steward was shoved into Halbarad. "Get out of my sight. I will speak with Boromir or Faramir. If you value your hide you will not come near me again!" Turning he stalked out of the room, Legolas and Halbarad hurrying to catch up. At the door he turned to Merry and Pippin. "Please find Boromir and Faramir and ask them to meet me in the courtyard. And then find Gandalf, Elrond, and Lady Galadriel." Without another word or look at the silent occupants he left.
Disgusted Frodo turned to Denethor. "Why do you insist on causing problems? Just leave," he ordered in an unusual display of temper before turning back to his meal.
Merry and Pippin slid out of the room.
For a few minutes Denethor just stood there, at a loss as to what had happened. He had been dismissed as though he was nothing! Unacceptable. Plotting his revenge the steward left to go to his quarters. There were new orders to be written for his men.
Full of angry energy Aragorn paced quickly about the courtyard. Halbarad and Legolas stood guard at the door, weapons back in their customary places. The ranger closed his eyes, trying to force calm on himself. He was not used to this uncontrolled rage. In the back of his mind he could feel the barely leashed desire to lash out with the power of the Ring. No! He would not allow that to happen. It scared him how close he had come to striking out at Denethor. If Halbarad had not moved into his line of sight, hand on his sword he was afraid he might have. Horror washing over him he felt all the rage drain out of him and he slumped dejectedly down on the ground, unable to support himself. He did not like the person he was becoming but seemed unble to maintain the control that he had so carefully learned and lived by since he had found out about his heritage at the age of twenty. Looking down at the Ring he felt disgust and longed to take it off and throw it away, but a part of him shuddered at the idea and made him sick to his stomach. Closing his eyes he fought to suppress his sobs. He did not want this, he had never wanted power, but here it was. And it would be so easy to grasp it. So easy.
Stepping out into the courtyard Gandalf stopped dead in his tracks, causing Elrond and Galadriel to almost walk into him. He could never recall seeing Aragorn appear so lost and alone.
Unable to take his eyes from his grieving son Elrond commented. "That is the way I would often find him when the young elves of Rivendell would tease him for being edain."
"You requested our presence," Galadriel spoke aloud, opting to ignore the implications of the scene.
In a swift, graceful movement Aragorn rose to his feet and turned, his face an outward appearance of complete calm. "Yes." He walked over to the benches and signalled them to join him. "I think it would be best if one of you accompanied the party to the west gate of Moria."
Looking closely Gandalf could see the maelstorm of emotions swirling just under the surface calm. "Why?"
'Because it may be necessary to have instant communication,' he answered in their heads.
Both elves and the wizard stared at him in shock as they shook their heads. The contact had not been comfortable. "Aragorn?" Galadriel asked for clarification.
With a small smile for their consternation he explained. "I know you can communicate mentally with the three elven rings of power." At their surprise his smile faded. "I am the Lord of the Ring," he reminded them. "The moment the Ring accepted me all its powers became available. I can sense all the rings. It is unwise to forget what I am."
"You are my son and a good man," Elrond replied. "Who has a strong temptation to turn," the elven lord admitted. "But you are strong enough to fight the evil. At least for a while. Why do you wish one of us to accompany the west door party?"
His eyes moving between the three Aragorn rose to pace. "The opposition is going to be powerful in Moria. Many of the orcs and other evil creatures retreated there and even now more seek to join them. Once we cleanse Moria I will be able to dispose of the ring." Unnoticed by him but not by the wielder's of the elven rings he balled his fist protectively over the ring. "If we are to win we are going to need to be able to communicate."
Gandalf watched the ranger closely. "You are encouraging them to Moria," he stated.
Slowly Aragorn nodded. "I do not have time to chase these creatures all over Middle-Earth. The ring's power is insiduous and is becoming increasingly a part of me. It would be all to easy to come to rely on the powers and abilities it gives me, many of them simply available without any thought." He looked away, refusing to meet their eyes. "I do not want any more of myself to join with the ring." Before they could answer his attentin slid to the door into the courtyard. "I will leave the decision to you. If you will excuse me I need to speak with my future steward." Rising he walked over to Faramir and Boromir and led them out of the courtyard.
Gandalf watched him go. "He is right we can not delay if we hope to salvage anything."
"At least he is strong enough to realize his peril and fear it," Galadriel said softly. "I believe he will last longer than anyone, especially himself expects. He will be tempted, but will fight it. His fear of power will serve him well." She turned to the two men. "Who should accompany the party to the west door?"
"I would rather stay by Estel," Elrond immediately replied. "I don't think it is a bad idea to have family around him now and I already committed Elladan and Elrohir to the west gate."
Closing his eyes Gandalf shook his head. "I would rather accompany the east gate force. The hobbits will be in that one."
Galadriel nodded. "Then it is settled. I will ride with the west door force."
Elrond and Gandalf exchanged a quick look.
Her eyes narrowing the Lady of Lothlorien dared either elf or wizard to speak. "I may be the Lady of the Golden Wood but I know well the skill of blade and bow."
With a laugh Elrond broke the tension. "I think if you set your mind to it you could whip us both." He sobered, his eyes losing focus. "I think before this is over we will need both the Lady of Light and the Lord of the Ring."
Aragorn led Boromir and Faramir to the room he had been given, as always Legolas and Halbarad walked just behind him. Once inside he collapsed wearily on the bed, leaning back against the headboard and signalled the two men to sit down. "I know you were both planning on accompanying the Moria expedition but I need to ask one of you to stay behind. I am sorry to say this but I do not trust your father. I am fairly sure he is even now drafting orders to keep the rangers from assisting the rest of the Alliance."
Boromir fiddled with his gauntlets. "I was afraid of that." He looke at his brother. "I had better be the one to stay. Father always listened better to me."
"Recently he is listening to nobody," Faramir told his brother. "It has gotten really bad since you left. He locks himself up in the top of the tower constantly and comes out even more defeatist."
Slowly Aragorn nodded. "There is a reason for that. It is something I have yet to deal with, but have not had the time or the strength." His eyes locked with Boromir's. "I do not wish to encourage a revolution but you must be ready to do what is best for your people. If he goes alone to the tower follow him. I do not think anything I do can free him completely from the spell he is under, but you may be able to."
Watching his king Boromir nodded. "I will do my best. Can you tell me what is affecting him?"
His eyes starting to drift shut he nodded. "It is-" he yawned.
Faramir stepped forward, nudging the nearly comatose ranger into a laying down position. "Just rest, my liege. You can tell us the rest later."
Already asleep Aragorn did not answer. On their way out the door Legolas laid a hand on Boromir's shoulder. "Could you let the Haradrim and Easterlings know that Lord Aragorn wishes to speak with them at noon tomorrow."
For a moment Faramir stared at the closed door, slightly surprised at how easy he found it accept Aragorn as his king. There was no doubt or hesitation. Turning he noticed Boromir also watching the door, his expressions unreadable. Now that was the reaction that truly surprised the steward's younger son. Boromir had always harbored the desire to be king. Yet he seemed to have offered his complete and unswerving loyalty to this stranger from the north even to standing against their father.
Aware of the younger man's eyes on him Boromir turned to face Faramir. "Where do you stand?"
His eyes were clear and sure as they locked with his brother's. "Do you have to ask?"
With a small smile Boromir shook his head. "No." His gaze slid back to the closed door. "Do your best to keep an extra eye on him. Gondor needs her king."
Before Faramir could reply Denethor came storming down the hallway. "There you two are. I have been searching all of Barad-dur for you. Come. We are taking our people and leaving."
Straightening his shoulders Faramir shook his head. "My rangers and I have given our word to the Alliance. We will march to Moria."
Denethor glared at his upstart son. "These soldiers are mine and I have already given them their new orders."
"Father," Boromir stepped between the two. "Gondor's aid is needed and has already been offer. Would it not be better to allow the rangers to go and return to the white city with the rest of the army?"
Reluctantly turning away from his second son Denethor looked closely at his pride and joy. His sharp eyes studied his firstborn- looking for signs of betrayal. He gave his head one sharp nod. "We leave in two hours." His disdainful gaze turned to Faramir. "You," he ordered contemptuously, "will lead the rangers." Without another word he turned and stalked off.
Boromir shook his head in dismay. "What happened to him? I knew he would not like the idea of the king returned." Painfully he recalled his own disdain and rudeness to Aragorn at the council. "But I have never seen him so unreasonable. He is usually more like you."
Pulling his gaze away from his departing father Faramir shrugged. "It has been growing worse, especially since you left. He goes up to the top of the tower for hours and returns more pessimistic than ever." He turned to lock eyes with Boromir. "Watch him close."
Boromir nodded. "Take care of yourself. And," here he hesitated a moment, eyes going to the closed door. "Take care of him. He is Gondor's hope."
"I will not fail my king, crowned or not." Faramir vowed.
After more than an hour of searching Elrond finally found his daugher pacing the council courtyard. "Arwen."
The elf-maide looked at him with unusual rancor. "Why can I not go to Estel? The guards are keeping me from him."
Taking her hand he led her to the bench. "There were things that needed to be taken care of while you got some much needed rest. Estel is going to need you now, more than he ever has before."
Her eyes widening as she understood her father's meaning Arwen felt her jaw drop but could not respond.
Slowly Elrond nodded as shocked comprehension flooded his beloved daughter's face. "Go to him. Let him know what is in the light for him."
Tears sliding down her face Arwen embraced the elven lord. "Thank you, Ada. Thank you." Quickly wiping her eyes she turned and hurried into the fortress.
"That was a very couragous thing to do," Gandalf commented from the doorway once Arwen was gone.
Elrond's pain filled eyes met those of the wizard. "For too long I have put the welfare of my daughter above that of my son. He has accepted and met his fate with no complaints." Dropping his head into his heads he forced away the image of the One Ring burning on his youngest child's hand. "When the time came he took the burden no one else would."
Sitting beside the elf Gandalf laid a comforting hand on his shoulder. "You raised him well. It will not be without scars but he will triumph."
"I know," lifting his eyes to the room where his son lay sleeping he forced his mind to release the light touch he had been maintaining. Aragorn needed his love now, not his father.
With a decisive nod Gandalf stood. "Let us see those going to the west gate off. I wish to see your son's reaction to Galadriel's presence."
Allowing the change of subject Elrond stood as well. "I would rather see Gimli's reaction. Alas he and Elrohir will not catch up with the party until just short of Moria."
"They will fulfill the trust given to them and the world of men will become safer for all."
Agony tore through Aragorn and he jerked to a sitting position, trying not to scream aloud. His hand was going numb as the lightening bolts of pain shot out from the ring. Strength was being stolen from him! Without conscious thought his mind raced out to Mount Doom and the two who were destroying his rings. How dare they? Rage soaring through him he fought to lash out, but the small, still rational part of his mind fought. Cool blue mist dampened the fire of his thoughts as he struggled to tamp down the dark power coarsing so freely through him. Eagerly he leaned into the familiar cool mist, allowing the light to push back the dark. Forcing his eyes open he realized he was covered in sweat and breathing hard. But the first thing he saw was a dark haired blue eyed angel seated next to him, lightly running her hand over his brow. The cool blue was emanating from her feather light touch. "Arwen," he breathed.
She smiled, sliding down next to him and leaning on his chest. "I am here, love."
His arms automatically going around her he pulled her close, needing to feel her love and comfort. For so long she had been his beacon of hope. "You should not be here."
"Yes," lifting her head she allowed their eyes to meet. "I should. Father knows, he is the one who sent me."
Not wanting to argue with his miraculous good fortune the ranger relaxed back, forcing his tense muscles to unknot. The ever alert part of him noted Legolas and Halbarad returning to their posts at the door, weapons already back in place.
Lightly caressing his still tense shoulders Arwen laid a gentle kiss on his neck. "Tell me."
"Our brother and Gimli just destroyed the nine." A shudder ripped through him. "The Ring was not happy."
Not liking the dark, heat, or stench of Mount Doom Gimli opened the leather bag and dumped it out. As his eyes watched the golden flecks disappear he felt a rush of relief wash over him. One more bit of the poison of evil had been destroyed. Suddenly Elrohir knocked him to the ground, rolling them both away from the edge. The dwarf was about to protest the rough treatment when he felt the angry menace. It felt like a dark wave trying to smother him. Then it was gone. "Elrohir?" he asked, knowing from the long journey with Legolas that elven senses were sharper.
The elf was laying with his eyes closed. After a moment he opened them and rose. "The danger is past, for now."
"What was that?"
The dark elven eyes that met his were full of sorrow. "I fear it was Aragorn. He would feel the loss of the nine. Lucky for us he won this battle. Come, we must hurry. I have a feeling the party for the east door will depart sooner and move faster than expected. This battle and journey shall only grow darker and more dangerous for Estel."
Miles away the Lord of the Ring lay in the comforting embrace of his betrothed, allowing her light and goodness to flow over and through him. As they lay together he was careful to keep the ring as far from her as possible. If he could help it the evil would not touch her in any way.
A/N Sorry this story seems to have a mind of its own. We do not get to Moria this chapter but will in the next one or two. Hope you enjoy
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Sam watched Frodo nervously. His master was still picking at is first serving while Merry and Pippin were both on their thirds. The usually clear blue eyes were glazed and distant: seeing horrors visible only to him the gardener feared. "Mr Frodo, you need to eat something."
Putting his fork down the former ringbearer pushed his plate away. "Food does not appeal to me, Sam."
Before the gardener could think of a response Gimli entered the room with Legolas just behind him, the elf's eyes making a quick scan of the room. "Dain wants me to lead the scouts," the dwarf was saying.
Legolas glanced down at his friend. "That is a good move. You have survived Moria and can find your way around."
"You shoud come with me," Gimli inivited. "An elf already familiar with Moria would be heartening to the other elves and men."
"No," the elf answered immediately. His eyes moved t0 the door where Aragorn had just entered with Halbarad a pace behind him.
Gimli looked back and forth between the two before his eyes came to rest on the glowing One Ring and sorrowful knowledge lit his eyes. Closing his eyes a moment he laid a hand on Legolas' arm for comfort. He turned to leave but Aragorn joined them, calling Elrohir over as well.
For a moment the ranger was silent, clearly unsure of his next words. "I have a large favor to ask of both of you." Hesitantly he pulled a small bag out of his pocket. "I need these disposed of."
Not sure he wanted to know Gimli reached for the bag and opened it. It contained several gold bands with variously colored stones. It was a moment before the dwarf realized what he was holding. "The nine rings gifted to men?"
Aragorn nodded. "I need them destroyed in Mount Doom. The sooner the better." His haunted eyes went to the bag and he swallowed hard. "They call to the One, wanting to be wielded once more." Forcing himself to look into his brother and friend's eyes Aragorn made himself to go on. "I fear the additional temptation."
Nodding Elrohir reached to pull the bag shut. "We will leave as soon as I inform Glorfindel and Elladan. We are supposed to leave for Moria shortly."
"You will have time to catch up with them before they reach Moria," Aragorn hastened to assure them. "There are still things that need to be organized. I doubt they will leave before this afternoon."
For a moment the group was silent. "What of the Dwarven rings?" Gimli finally asked. "At the council it was said that Sauron had many of them."
"I have given those to Gandalf. What their fate is will be his decision. They do not call to me as the Nine do, but they were made by Sauron." With a quick nod of thanks he turned and took a seat at the table beside Frodo. Unknowingly echoing the hobbit he took only some toast to nibble on.
Sam looked back and forth between the two of them. "This is not healthy," he pronounced. "You are both to thin and I am sure you have not been eating."
In disgust Frodo shoved his plate away. "Just looking at it is making me sick." Against his will his eyes went to the ring glowing contentedly on Aragorn's finger. Using all his will he looked back to Sam. "I am not hungry."
Grabbing another slice of toast Aragorn put it on a clean plate and placed it in front of Frodo. "Much as I agree with you, Sam is right. We both have to eat to regain our strength."
Quietly Sam moved the ful plate away from the Frodo.
Frodo reluctantly nibbled on the toast. "Nothing feels right," he confessed to Strider. "I feel all lost and adrift." He closed his eyes. "I should have fought."
"No!" Aragorn soft yet forceful command silenced all conversation in the room, but the two paid no attention. "If you had done so you would never have had the chance to steal the ring from Sauron and right now all Middle-Earth would be under his dominion, our friends would be dead or prisoners and you and I would be in a hell even worse than the one that we had already faced." Lightly he touched the hobbit's shoulder. "You did what I could not and by doing so saved Middle-Earth."
Frodo swallowed hard. "I want to believe, but the nightmare. It won't leave me alone. And you are still living it. I should have had more strength!"
Slowly Aragorn shook his head. "No," he repeated softly. "Once Sauron had achieved the ring I do not think there would have been any other way for this to play out without Sauron succeeding." Here he caught and held Frodo's eyes. "I mean no disrespect to you, you are one of the strongest people of any race I have ever had the honor of knowing, but I do not think the ring would have accepted you as master. I am surprised it reckognized my claim and allowed me the power to use Sauron's trapped strength against him."
"But will I ever feel whole again?" he asked plaintively.
Shaking his head slightly Aragorn squeezed his shoulder. "I do not know, but I hope we can both find healing."
Before Frodo could reply Denethor came storming into the dining area. Watching him Sam half expected his head to explode he was so angry and red. "Just what is the meaning of this?" he demanded of Aragorn belligerantly, looming over the seated ranger. "How dare you send so many of my soldiers to do your dirty work."
The look in Aragorn's eyes as he slowly stood up caused Sam to flinch back in his chair. He had never seen the ranger so angry. "The soldiers of Minis Tirith fight alongside the other free people's of Middle-Earth." Despite the ire radiating from him his voice was low and controlled. "They are not your soldiers."
"I am steward," Denethor replied. "All of Gondor is under my control!"
Suddenly Sam found his attention pulled to Aragorn's hand. He could not stifle a gasp at what he saw. The thumb of Aragorn's left hand was lightly caressing the One Ring, which seemed to be glowing brighter. A shift beside him caused his eyes to shoot to Legolas. The elf had stationed himself about five feet behind the ranger, his bow out. The other ranger, Halbarad, had shifted to a position in front of Aragorn, hand resting lightly on his sword. Isildur's heir looked back and forth between the two, completely ignoring Denethor. Sam thought he could almost see the struggle as Aragorn dropped his hand to his side.
Denethor pushed himself closer. "Look at me when I am speaking to you, ranger!"
Aragorn's reaction was almost faster than Sam could see. The old steward was shoved into Halbarad. "Get out of my sight. I will speak with Boromir or Faramir. If you value your hide you will not come near me again!" Turning he stalked out of the room, Legolas and Halbarad hurrying to catch up. At the door he turned to Merry and Pippin. "Please find Boromir and Faramir and ask them to meet me in the courtyard. And then find Gandalf, Elrond, and Lady Galadriel." Without another word or look at the silent occupants he left.
Disgusted Frodo turned to Denethor. "Why do you insist on causing problems? Just leave," he ordered in an unusual display of temper before turning back to his meal.
Merry and Pippin slid out of the room.
For a few minutes Denethor just stood there, at a loss as to what had happened. He had been dismissed as though he was nothing! Unacceptable. Plotting his revenge the steward left to go to his quarters. There were new orders to be written for his men.
Full of angry energy Aragorn paced quickly about the courtyard. Halbarad and Legolas stood guard at the door, weapons back in their customary places. The ranger closed his eyes, trying to force calm on himself. He was not used to this uncontrolled rage. In the back of his mind he could feel the barely leashed desire to lash out with the power of the Ring. No! He would not allow that to happen. It scared him how close he had come to striking out at Denethor. If Halbarad had not moved into his line of sight, hand on his sword he was afraid he might have. Horror washing over him he felt all the rage drain out of him and he slumped dejectedly down on the ground, unable to support himself. He did not like the person he was becoming but seemed unble to maintain the control that he had so carefully learned and lived by since he had found out about his heritage at the age of twenty. Looking down at the Ring he felt disgust and longed to take it off and throw it away, but a part of him shuddered at the idea and made him sick to his stomach. Closing his eyes he fought to suppress his sobs. He did not want this, he had never wanted power, but here it was. And it would be so easy to grasp it. So easy.
Stepping out into the courtyard Gandalf stopped dead in his tracks, causing Elrond and Galadriel to almost walk into him. He could never recall seeing Aragorn appear so lost and alone.
Unable to take his eyes from his grieving son Elrond commented. "That is the way I would often find him when the young elves of Rivendell would tease him for being edain."
"You requested our presence," Galadriel spoke aloud, opting to ignore the implications of the scene.
In a swift, graceful movement Aragorn rose to his feet and turned, his face an outward appearance of complete calm. "Yes." He walked over to the benches and signalled them to join him. "I think it would be best if one of you accompanied the party to the west gate of Moria."
Looking closely Gandalf could see the maelstorm of emotions swirling just under the surface calm. "Why?"
'Because it may be necessary to have instant communication,' he answered in their heads.
Both elves and the wizard stared at him in shock as they shook their heads. The contact had not been comfortable. "Aragorn?" Galadriel asked for clarification.
With a small smile for their consternation he explained. "I know you can communicate mentally with the three elven rings of power." At their surprise his smile faded. "I am the Lord of the Ring," he reminded them. "The moment the Ring accepted me all its powers became available. I can sense all the rings. It is unwise to forget what I am."
"You are my son and a good man," Elrond replied. "Who has a strong temptation to turn," the elven lord admitted. "But you are strong enough to fight the evil. At least for a while. Why do you wish one of us to accompany the west door party?"
His eyes moving between the three Aragorn rose to pace. "The opposition is going to be powerful in Moria. Many of the orcs and other evil creatures retreated there and even now more seek to join them. Once we cleanse Moria I will be able to dispose of the ring." Unnoticed by him but not by the wielder's of the elven rings he balled his fist protectively over the ring. "If we are to win we are going to need to be able to communicate."
Gandalf watched the ranger closely. "You are encouraging them to Moria," he stated.
Slowly Aragorn nodded. "I do not have time to chase these creatures all over Middle-Earth. The ring's power is insiduous and is becoming increasingly a part of me. It would be all to easy to come to rely on the powers and abilities it gives me, many of them simply available without any thought." He looked away, refusing to meet their eyes. "I do not want any more of myself to join with the ring." Before they could answer his attentin slid to the door into the courtyard. "I will leave the decision to you. If you will excuse me I need to speak with my future steward." Rising he walked over to Faramir and Boromir and led them out of the courtyard.
Gandalf watched him go. "He is right we can not delay if we hope to salvage anything."
"At least he is strong enough to realize his peril and fear it," Galadriel said softly. "I believe he will last longer than anyone, especially himself expects. He will be tempted, but will fight it. His fear of power will serve him well." She turned to the two men. "Who should accompany the party to the west door?"
"I would rather stay by Estel," Elrond immediately replied. "I don't think it is a bad idea to have family around him now and I already committed Elladan and Elrohir to the west gate."
Closing his eyes Gandalf shook his head. "I would rather accompany the east gate force. The hobbits will be in that one."
Galadriel nodded. "Then it is settled. I will ride with the west door force."
Elrond and Gandalf exchanged a quick look.
Her eyes narrowing the Lady of Lothlorien dared either elf or wizard to speak. "I may be the Lady of the Golden Wood but I know well the skill of blade and bow."
With a laugh Elrond broke the tension. "I think if you set your mind to it you could whip us both." He sobered, his eyes losing focus. "I think before this is over we will need both the Lady of Light and the Lord of the Ring."
Aragorn led Boromir and Faramir to the room he had been given, as always Legolas and Halbarad walked just behind him. Once inside he collapsed wearily on the bed, leaning back against the headboard and signalled the two men to sit down. "I know you were both planning on accompanying the Moria expedition but I need to ask one of you to stay behind. I am sorry to say this but I do not trust your father. I am fairly sure he is even now drafting orders to keep the rangers from assisting the rest of the Alliance."
Boromir fiddled with his gauntlets. "I was afraid of that." He looke at his brother. "I had better be the one to stay. Father always listened better to me."
"Recently he is listening to nobody," Faramir told his brother. "It has gotten really bad since you left. He locks himself up in the top of the tower constantly and comes out even more defeatist."
Slowly Aragorn nodded. "There is a reason for that. It is something I have yet to deal with, but have not had the time or the strength." His eyes locked with Boromir's. "I do not wish to encourage a revolution but you must be ready to do what is best for your people. If he goes alone to the tower follow him. I do not think anything I do can free him completely from the spell he is under, but you may be able to."
Watching his king Boromir nodded. "I will do my best. Can you tell me what is affecting him?"
His eyes starting to drift shut he nodded. "It is-" he yawned.
Faramir stepped forward, nudging the nearly comatose ranger into a laying down position. "Just rest, my liege. You can tell us the rest later."
Already asleep Aragorn did not answer. On their way out the door Legolas laid a hand on Boromir's shoulder. "Could you let the Haradrim and Easterlings know that Lord Aragorn wishes to speak with them at noon tomorrow."
For a moment Faramir stared at the closed door, slightly surprised at how easy he found it accept Aragorn as his king. There was no doubt or hesitation. Turning he noticed Boromir also watching the door, his expressions unreadable. Now that was the reaction that truly surprised the steward's younger son. Boromir had always harbored the desire to be king. Yet he seemed to have offered his complete and unswerving loyalty to this stranger from the north even to standing against their father.
Aware of the younger man's eyes on him Boromir turned to face Faramir. "Where do you stand?"
His eyes were clear and sure as they locked with his brother's. "Do you have to ask?"
With a small smile Boromir shook his head. "No." His gaze slid back to the closed door. "Do your best to keep an extra eye on him. Gondor needs her king."
Before Faramir could reply Denethor came storming down the hallway. "There you two are. I have been searching all of Barad-dur for you. Come. We are taking our people and leaving."
Straightening his shoulders Faramir shook his head. "My rangers and I have given our word to the Alliance. We will march to Moria."
Denethor glared at his upstart son. "These soldiers are mine and I have already given them their new orders."
"Father," Boromir stepped between the two. "Gondor's aid is needed and has already been offer. Would it not be better to allow the rangers to go and return to the white city with the rest of the army?"
Reluctantly turning away from his second son Denethor looked closely at his pride and joy. His sharp eyes studied his firstborn- looking for signs of betrayal. He gave his head one sharp nod. "We leave in two hours." His disdainful gaze turned to Faramir. "You," he ordered contemptuously, "will lead the rangers." Without another word he turned and stalked off.
Boromir shook his head in dismay. "What happened to him? I knew he would not like the idea of the king returned." Painfully he recalled his own disdain and rudeness to Aragorn at the council. "But I have never seen him so unreasonable. He is usually more like you."
Pulling his gaze away from his departing father Faramir shrugged. "It has been growing worse, especially since you left. He goes up to the top of the tower for hours and returns more pessimistic than ever." He turned to lock eyes with Boromir. "Watch him close."
Boromir nodded. "Take care of yourself. And," here he hesitated a moment, eyes going to the closed door. "Take care of him. He is Gondor's hope."
"I will not fail my king, crowned or not." Faramir vowed.
After more than an hour of searching Elrond finally found his daugher pacing the council courtyard. "Arwen."
The elf-maide looked at him with unusual rancor. "Why can I not go to Estel? The guards are keeping me from him."
Taking her hand he led her to the bench. "There were things that needed to be taken care of while you got some much needed rest. Estel is going to need you now, more than he ever has before."
Her eyes widening as she understood her father's meaning Arwen felt her jaw drop but could not respond.
Slowly Elrond nodded as shocked comprehension flooded his beloved daughter's face. "Go to him. Let him know what is in the light for him."
Tears sliding down her face Arwen embraced the elven lord. "Thank you, Ada. Thank you." Quickly wiping her eyes she turned and hurried into the fortress.
"That was a very couragous thing to do," Gandalf commented from the doorway once Arwen was gone.
Elrond's pain filled eyes met those of the wizard. "For too long I have put the welfare of my daughter above that of my son. He has accepted and met his fate with no complaints." Dropping his head into his heads he forced away the image of the One Ring burning on his youngest child's hand. "When the time came he took the burden no one else would."
Sitting beside the elf Gandalf laid a comforting hand on his shoulder. "You raised him well. It will not be without scars but he will triumph."
"I know," lifting his eyes to the room where his son lay sleeping he forced his mind to release the light touch he had been maintaining. Aragorn needed his love now, not his father.
With a decisive nod Gandalf stood. "Let us see those going to the west gate off. I wish to see your son's reaction to Galadriel's presence."
Allowing the change of subject Elrond stood as well. "I would rather see Gimli's reaction. Alas he and Elrohir will not catch up with the party until just short of Moria."
"They will fulfill the trust given to them and the world of men will become safer for all."
Agony tore through Aragorn and he jerked to a sitting position, trying not to scream aloud. His hand was going numb as the lightening bolts of pain shot out from the ring. Strength was being stolen from him! Without conscious thought his mind raced out to Mount Doom and the two who were destroying his rings. How dare they? Rage soaring through him he fought to lash out, but the small, still rational part of his mind fought. Cool blue mist dampened the fire of his thoughts as he struggled to tamp down the dark power coarsing so freely through him. Eagerly he leaned into the familiar cool mist, allowing the light to push back the dark. Forcing his eyes open he realized he was covered in sweat and breathing hard. But the first thing he saw was a dark haired blue eyed angel seated next to him, lightly running her hand over his brow. The cool blue was emanating from her feather light touch. "Arwen," he breathed.
She smiled, sliding down next to him and leaning on his chest. "I am here, love."
His arms automatically going around her he pulled her close, needing to feel her love and comfort. For so long she had been his beacon of hope. "You should not be here."
"Yes," lifting her head she allowed their eyes to meet. "I should. Father knows, he is the one who sent me."
Not wanting to argue with his miraculous good fortune the ranger relaxed back, forcing his tense muscles to unknot. The ever alert part of him noted Legolas and Halbarad returning to their posts at the door, weapons already back in place.
Lightly caressing his still tense shoulders Arwen laid a gentle kiss on his neck. "Tell me."
"Our brother and Gimli just destroyed the nine." A shudder ripped through him. "The Ring was not happy."
Not liking the dark, heat, or stench of Mount Doom Gimli opened the leather bag and dumped it out. As his eyes watched the golden flecks disappear he felt a rush of relief wash over him. One more bit of the poison of evil had been destroyed. Suddenly Elrohir knocked him to the ground, rolling them both away from the edge. The dwarf was about to protest the rough treatment when he felt the angry menace. It felt like a dark wave trying to smother him. Then it was gone. "Elrohir?" he asked, knowing from the long journey with Legolas that elven senses were sharper.
The elf was laying with his eyes closed. After a moment he opened them and rose. "The danger is past, for now."
"What was that?"
The dark elven eyes that met his were full of sorrow. "I fear it was Aragorn. He would feel the loss of the nine. Lucky for us he won this battle. Come, we must hurry. I have a feeling the party for the east door will depart sooner and move faster than expected. This battle and journey shall only grow darker and more dangerous for Estel."
Miles away the Lord of the Ring lay in the comforting embrace of his betrothed, allowing her light and goodness to flow over and through him. As they lay together he was careful to keep the ring as far from her as possible. If he could help it the evil would not touch her in any way.