Disclaimer: don't own them, I just really wish that I did. Sigh… They belong to J.R.R Tolkien.

A/N: thank you so much for all your reviews, you won't believe the big smile I wore when I had read them. I think I even scared some of my colleagues… 'Replies' are at the bottom. Hope you enjoy this one!

A big thank you for Cat for reading these two chapters beforehand and letting me know what she thought – I really appreciated it! :)

~~~

Chapter 2

~~~

It was late in the night when the twins quickly popped into the room to check on their little brother. Their father had not joined them in the Halls of Fire after dinner and neither had Halbarad. The twins had spent some time there – watching the warm, dancing flames for a while and listening to the singing of the other elves. Legolas had joined them as well – knowing Elrond wanted to be alone with Estel right now and that he would only make his friend feel more uncomfortable. The prince had smiled as he remembered happy evenings when the twins, Estel or he himself sang in these halls. The young human could sing remarkably well – moving the listener as if feeling the story themselves. Yet when the moon was high up in the sky the Mirkwood elf had retired to his chambers, leaving the twins behind.

When the two Noldor elves snapped out of their trance like state some time after their friend's departure, they realized they hadn't seen Elrond ever after Estel's hasty flight. Knowing their father would still be with Estel, the twins decided to fetch him from their brother's room.

And indeed, as soon as they opened the door they could see Elrond sitting next to the bed, looking at Estel. No light burned in the room, but their elven eyes were sensitive enough to see the quiet forms. The elf lord's eyes were slightly unfocused and the twins knew he was asleep. Elrond too had a hard time with what had happened to his youngest and he still blamed himself for allowing Nemo refuge in Imladris. Every night the elf looked up to the stars – finding comfort in the star of his father. It reminded him that eventually, all would be well again, no matter how bad things were at the moment.

"Ada?" Elrohir whispered – careful not to wake the sleeping human. He walked closer to the older elf and gently shook him. "Ada?"

Grey eyes slowly focused and took in the darkness of the room. Many hours had passed since he had sat down to watch his youngest. He looked at Estel and seeing that he was resting comfortably turned to Elrohir.

"What happened, Ada?" Elrohir asked. He looked back to Elladan who had moved to light the fireplace – more for the comfort of the light should Estel waken in the dark than for the warmth it would bring.

Elrond closed his eyes, still angry at himself. "It is too soon…" he quietly spoke.

"It was not your fault, Ada," Elladan spoke up – his eyes fixed on the rise and fall of Estel's chest, mesmerized by the motion, "You are right in thinking it is time for Estel to meet humans. And Halbarad is a good choice…"

"How did he react to…?" Elrond asked, wondering how the ranger had responded to the, for him, awkward episode.

Elrohir snorted. "He is not a dense boy, Ada. He suspected something and asked questions."

Elladan finished, "He had the right to know why he has been summoned and Legolas told him the barest details."

Elrohir took it up again, "He understands more than what was said and may even be able to relate slightly to Estel."

Elrond muttered, "Both were hurt by Men, indeed…"

"So what happened to Estel, Ada? I have never seen him react like he did tonight!" Elrohir asked again.

The ancient elf sighed, "I think the fear he felt at meeting Halbarad, at meeting another human, overwhelmed him…"

"A panic attack?" Elladan asked.

Elrohir slowly nodded, thinking it through. "Halbarad appeared without any warning – he was unprepared for it…"

At this, Elrond wondered if perhaps he should have informed Estel about his decision to summon the other human. If he had, Estel could have prepared himself for the meeting. Or he would have hidden himself away either in his room or elsewhere the entire time until Halbarad had left…

"Ada, it was the right decision. You know as well as I do that Estel would have done everything in his power to avoid Halbarad if he had known of his coming," Elladan confirmed as if reading his father's thoughts.

"Well, it is too late to change anything. Let Estel get used to the boy – Halbarad is not going anywhere for a while yet."

The twins nodded and each held a hand out to their father. "Come, Ada. You need to get some real rest," Elrohir implored.

But Elrond shook his head, nodding towards Estel, "He will not be pleased if he learned that we left him all alone while he was unable to defend himself should danger be near. That would be a step back in his recovery. No – I will stay with him this night. Go to sleep, Elladan… Elrohir. Tomorrow is a new day."

The twins quietly did their father's bidding, hoping that the next day would be better. Before leaving the room, they quickly moved over to Estel and, seeing that he slept soundly, touched their hands to his cheek in a sign of brotherly affection.

Elrond watched his sons leave and turned back to watching Estel – determined not to fall asleep again this night…

~~~

Elrond didn't ask Estel to meet Halbarad again after that – opting instead for his youngest to get used to the idea of having another human walking around in his home. In time, the young human would understand that Halbarad wasn't like Nemo. Elrond had had his own doubts for a while – was it a good idea to invite the young ranger, or would he turn out to be someone else as well? The elf lord had taken his chance and so far had not regretted it. It was unfair to compare all humans to the old Man – he had come to that decision long ago and in time, Estel would see it as well.

A strained week passed in which Estel tried to avoid the ranger, something which put a great strain on his nerves. He couldn't believe that he had had a panic attack that evening at the dining table. I am stupid. He reprimanded himself. Weakness is already in my blood, I need not prove my family of this. I need to be strong… I need to get over it!

The night his father had drugged him was the only time he had been able to sleep peacefully. He refused to be drugged again – fearing Halbarad might enter his room and try something. Estel knew that Legolas was secretly following the other human when he was not with him and felt somewhat comforted that his best friend kept an eye on the ranger. It was a foolish thing actually, having the blonde elf spy on the human, but it did make him feel better.

Usually when Halbarad was in the company of the twins would Legolas leave him be and return to Estel, telling him what the human had been up to. The youngest human listened intently to everything Legolas told him, trying to figure out what the ranger was up to. And as Estel avoided the other human, the Mirkwood elf didn't speak with Halbarad unless it were a few polite words spoken during meals.

The twins could roll their eyes at the distrust they could still feel emanating from Legolas – it was diminishing, indeed, but it was still present. When would their friend finally accept that Halbarad posed no threat? Sometimes, at night, the brothers would seek out the Mirkwood elf and talk with him and bit by bit, Legolas started to believe in the other human… telling Estel so during their talks.

With the knowledge Estel had gained from reports day after day, he dared to venture out of his room again without fear of encountering the ranger. Or rather, without fearing that during such an encounter something bad would happen. If it did, the other elves – Legolas in specific – would be nearby. And eventually it did happen that the two humans met each other when they were walking through the halls.

The first time it happened, Estel looked long and hard at the human, determined not to run away like he had done twice already. Halbarad had nodded at him, hesitantly – not wanting to upset the boy by taking things too fast, before going on his way again. Estel quickly turned around and watched as the ranger moved around the corner. He waited a little while longer to be sure the human would not return the minute he turned his back.

Heaving a relieved sigh, Estel also continued his path…

~~~

Legolas had been following Halbarad around for several days now and was convinced that the young Man was a man of honour – he could feel that trait radiating from the ranger now that he had freed himself of the bias that had lain in his heart before. The words they exchanged during meals became more and friendlier. Yes, his opinion was formed, the fair prince noted – now it was time to convince Estel that the other human was trustworthy.

It was when the other elves had retreated to the Hall of Fire and taken the ranger with them that the two friends moved to Elrond's study where at this time they were assured of some privacy.

"You cannot keep avoiding Halbarad for ever, Estel. It is not healthy and I think that if you gave him a chance, he would turn out to be a faithful friend," Legolas said as soon as the doors were closed.

Estel, sensing this specific conversation had been coming, walked to the window – waiting for the elf to continue.

"I followed him this past week and my senses tell me he is a good man. I sense no tricks in his behaviour – he does not pretend to be someone he is not. You know Elladan and Elrohir trust him and they too sense no deceit – they would tell you more if you but asked."

Estel sighed, not turning to look his friend in the eyes. "I am afraid…" he whispered, not caring that he admitted this perceived weakness to his best friend. He wanted to trust again, but why should he dare to trust a complete stranger? He still had trouble allowing his brothers and Legolas to be near him, always slightly moving away when they came too close. If he couldn't deal with them – the ones he trusted more than anyone else in Middle Earth, how could he ever deal with other people?

Legolas walked up behind him, his hand hovering over Estel's shoulder but afraid to touch him. Then something happened which the prince had not expected. Estel looked at him calculatingly after having sensed the hand before smiling gently. Then he slightly nodded – giving his friend permission for the first time to rest his hand on his shoulder again.

Slowly, Legolas lowered his hand, his eyes never leaving Estel's face. His blue eyes twinkled at the trust the young human placed in him while he still felt vulnerable. "Ask them…" the elf implored, "you will be happy that you did."

A silence fell in which Estel thought about it. The twins knew more about Halbarad and he would like to know their opinion of the human. Indeed Estel knew that his brothers thought the Man to be trustworthy, but it was difficult to accept it. Questions nagged him that would not be quieted now: how had they met each other? Why had they become friends? "All right… I will," he replied, curious to the story behind the ranger. Upon seeing the doubting look, his smile grew a little, "I promise."

A small silence fell in which neither friend moved. "Uhm, Legolas?"

"Hmm?"

"Would you do me a favour?"

"You know I will."

Steeling himself for what he was about to do, Estel decided to get it out before he changed his mind, "Would you fetch the twins for me? I am sure they are still in the Hall of Fire."

"Of course," Legolas replied and went to do his bidding. Estel was finally showing more improvement and he was sure that once his friend had talked to his brothers, things would begin to work themselves out. If all he had to do for this to begin was to fetch the twins, he would happily oblige to his friend's request.

~~~

Legolas quickly moved to the Hall of Fire, his eyes roaming the crowded hall until he spotted the twins. They were sitting next to the blazing fire, more enjoying the comfort of its warmth and light than needing it. Halbarad sat next to them and seemed to enjoy the heat. The human's eyes blinked as the meal before and the pleasant heat combined with the beautiful singing were trying to lull him into sleep.

Elrohir noticed the efforts of the human to stay awake and didn't even bother to hide his smile, "Halbarad! If you are that tired you should go to sleep!"

"I am not tired," the ranger tried to convince the twins.

"He is just as stubborn as Estel sometimes!" Elladan said, a big smile appearing on his face as well.

Legolas stepped up to the three, "It must be a human trait I am beginning to suspect."

Immediately, Halbarad stood up and bowed slightly, "Good evening, prince Legolas. Please join us this fair night in our conversations."

Legolas shook his head at the human, "No Master Halbarad, Elrohir is right. You seem to be asleep on your feet! Besides, I am afraid that I must steal your companions."

Elladan frowned, "What is wrong?"

Legolas held up his hands, "Nothing is wrong, there is just someone who would really like to speak with you right now."

Halbarad tried to hide a yawn behind his hand before quickly excusing himself, "I am terribly sorry, my Lords, but I fear my mind has finally decided to agree with you. I will take my leave of you after all. I bid you all a good night."

The elves nodded at the human and watched as he slowly walked from the room.

Legolas continued, "Estel would like to speak with you two. He is finally opening up to the idea of having Halbarad around, but has questions…"

The twins could see there was something more – there was a strange sparkle in Legolas eyes as if the fair elf was terribly proud of something, besides of what he had just told them.

"There is something more," Elladan said, prying for more information.

Legolas flushed as he realized his excitement was obvious and he felt a little silly for it. "I am afraid that I am making it more than it really is, but, it is just… Estel is improving… He even accepted my touch without glaring daggers at me!" Now he felt really silly for saying it out loud; it must only seem a small thing to others, but the twins didn't deny him his pleasure.

Both Elrohir and Elladan smiled, "That is great to hear!" the older twin said.

"That is indeed improvement," the younger twin agreed.

Legolas smiled as well, "You should not keep him waiting for too long. He has just rediscovered his courage and it needs to be boosted before it wanes forever… He is waiting for you in Elrond's study."

The twins nodded and stood up, expecting Legolas to come with them. Seeing that the prince was seating himself next to the fire, they raised questioning eyebrows at him.

"He needs to speak with you two now. I will speak to him again tomorrow."

~~~

The twins entered the study and looked for their little brother. They could see him standing before the window, gazing out towards the horizon. Upon hearing the door opening, Estel spun around. He had to be strong now and make the next step.

"Legolas said you wanted to speak with us," Elrohir hesitantly spoke, hoping his little brother hadn't changed his mind.

Sighing deeply, Estel nodded and raised his eyes to meet first Elrohir's, then Elladan's. "You trust Halbarad…" he stated, waiting if the twins would deny this.

Both his brothers nodded, waiting for what would come next.

"You sense no deceit in him…"

Elladan frowned, "He is a trustworthy man, Estel. We have known him for several years now and he has proven to be a good friend. We trust him with our lives…"

"We would even trust him with your life." Elrohir stated, getting through to his little brother just how much they trusted the other human. The twins were very protective of the youngest member of their family and they only trusted very good friends with safeguarding Estel.

"Tell me what you know about him," Estel asked.

Elladan shook his head, "We are really not the ones to tell you about Halbarad, Estel."

"Please, Elladan… Elrohir. I need to hear it from you. I… it is… please?"

How could the twins refuse their little brother?

"We will not tell you everything," Elladan said.

Elrohir finished his sentence, "You will need to speak with Halbarad if you want to know all the details…"

"… but we can tell you this: when Halbarad was eighteen years old, he was very badly hurt by a group of Men…"

"… marauders. He lost his family that day…"

"… his friends…"

"… and did not trust anyone after that. We found him and brought him here and after a real long time…"

"… we got him to trust others again. He ended up with the rangers because of us and has stayed there ever since."

"There is more to this story and things happened in between, but this is all you need to know for now: Halbarad was hurt by humans."

Estel frowned upon hearing this. The ranger he had met had been hurt by humans? Then why did he set out to protect them? How was he hurt? What had happened exactly to his family? "Like me?" His voice was hardly a whisper and the twins had trouble hearing it, but they did and a sad look appeared on their faces.

Elrohir moved closer to his little brother, hoping that his presence would rid Estel of the memories he was sure had come to the forefront of his mind again. "To this day he still has not told us all that has happened, but he tells us he was not hurt in that way. I believe him…"

"As do I…"

Elrohir, thinking that his brother was ready, but fearing how Estel would take his suggestion, braced himself for rejection, "Estel? How about you two talk with each other? Get to know each other a little better?"

"You might even decide for yourself that Halbarad could be your friend."

"You could talk to him in here and we would be close enough to hear you if you call for us…"

The twins held their breath as they waited for their brother to answer them. They could see that a lot of emotions warred inside him, but in the end, a fire blazed in his eyes. Hearing that this ranger had a weak spot as well, Estel didn't fear the human as much anymore.

Looking at his brothers, he slowly nodded.

~~~

The next day passed without any events. Estel finally slept more peacefully then he had in a while and when he woke up next, it was nearly afternoon. Surprised that no one had woken him he quickly got up and dressed. Picking up his sword and attaching it to his belt, the young human first walked to his friend's room, but upon finding it empty, figured the Mirkwood elf to be in the gardens.

After learning a little more about the other human last night, Estel decided to no longer actively avoid the ranger; Legolas was right – avoiding him was of no use, but neither would he seek his company. Not yet. As he was on his way to the garden where Legolas usually practiced his archery, he passed Halbarad who was enjoying a quiet stroll through the halls again. Both humans stood still for a moment, judging the other and trying to look deeply into the other's eyes.

Estel, deciding that he would not fear this human anymore in his own home, greeted the ranger, "Good morning, Master Halbarad."

The other human actually looked surprised that Estel had greeted him, but quickly recovering he returned the greeting, "Good morning indeed, Master Estel."

Not knowing what to say to each other after that, an uncomfortable silence fell. Estel nodded before quickly continuing his path. Halbarad by now had learned to take it slowly with Estel – conversations with the twins helping him understand their little brother better. This was the first time the younger man had spoken to him after their first meeting and though a hand had been covertly resting on the hilt of his sword, it was a start. No indeed; the small encounters would be enough for now. Once Estel had grown more comfortable with him they would talk. But what had changed the boy's mind?

~~~

Estel indeed found Legolas practising archery and from the concentrated look on the fair elf's face, he was using this time for thinking – his eyes not really seeing the target before him.

"Just how long have you been out here, my friend?" Estel asked.

Legolas released his last arrow – once more hitting the centre, or rather, splicing the arrows already shot into the centre. "Not too long, Estel. The sun has hardly moved positions from when I fired my first shot."

"The twins told me some very interesting things yesterday." Estel breached the subject that had been last between them.

"I suspect I know what they told you. What do you think now?"

Estel frowned, not really sure how he felt about it, "I think I am happy that I spoke to the twins. At least now I do not fear Halbarad anymore," Well, less anyway, "knowing that he has a weak spot…" If worse came to worse, he would exploit this weak spot as much as he could. Who ever said that 'words could not hurt a person' had no idea how wrong that statement was.

"Do you plan on joining us at the table this night, Estel?" Legolas asked his friend. All the elves had seen the gradual improvement in the young human and after last night the prince hoped that soon things would be well again.

Estel gazed at the fair elf who was patiently waiting until he had reached his decision. Every night after Halbarad's arrival, Estel had dined either alone if he was in no mood for company, or together with his best friend in either his or Legolas' chambers. This time the prince could see a change in his friend; the grey eyes looked determined about something.

"Yes," the human replied, "I do not want to be afraid anymore, Legolas. It is time to face my fear… You and the twins tell me I can trust Halbarad, I think it is time for me to get to know him."

Inwardly, Legolas beamed that his friend was ready to take the last step. He realized it took a lot of courage for his friend to speak with the other Man. "Indeed I think he is a man of valour and compassion. He would be a loyal friend if you decide him worthy."

Estel grimaced – though he had set his mind about this, he still wondered if this was the right course of action. A small voice inside his head told him that it was foolish to trust the other human – foolish to trust any other human ever again. But there was another voice now that countered the first, dark voice and it was encouraging him to get to know Halbarad; if this human proved to be good, surely there must be others?

~~~

Estel and Legolas stayed out for some time after – taking advantage of the good weather to improve their skills with both bow and arrow and the sword. It was only when the shadows were lengthening that the two returned inside.

The young human steeled himself for the dinner. He was determined not to react to the other human like he had done last time. Last time, he had been taken by surprise, but this time, he would be stronger! With that thought running through his mind, Estel quickly dressed for dinner before picking up Legolas. The Mirkwood elf was already waiting for him and they slowly made their way to the dining room. Every step that he took felt like he was dragged down by something heavy, but Estel was determined to do this.

Then they neared the doors and the pair halted. Estel drew in a deep breath and closed his eyes. He was glad Legolas and the others would be with him the entire time, or else he feared he would not be able to take this step…

"Are you sure you want to do this?" Legolas quietly asked, giving his friend a chance to back out – letting him know that is was not too late to change his mind.

Estel opened his eyes and grey eyes fixed on blue, "I am sure. It is time, Legolas."

Nodding, the prince waited for Estel to open the doors and enter.

Elrond, the twins and Halbarad were already seated at the table – just like they had been last time. Estel looked everyone in the eye and nodded, "Good evening, Ada, brothers… Master Halbarad," before taking a seat across from the human.

"And to you, Master Estel."

As the food was served, Estel slowly ate a couple of mouthfuls – the unpleasant feeling of before was not as strong, but it had not disappeared entirely. He watched the human before him quietly, his gaze nearly unnerving the other.

"You have been here quite some time now, Master Halbarad," Estel began, silently ordering his voice to remain steady, "How do you like Imladris?"

"Please, call me Halbarad, Master Estel… As to answer your question – Rivendell is a very beautiful place. The peace and quiet of this haven really soothe my mind. It has been quite some time since I last was here."

Elrond interrupted, "I hope the rangers will not mind your absence for a while, young Halbarad. I would like you to stay for some time…"

The twins looked each other in the eyes and smiled. "I remember the first time he visited us," Elrohir said teasingly.

"Surely you will not leave us as soon as you did back then, will you?" Eladan asked, knowing the response this would elicit from the ranger.

For reasons Estel couldn't fathom, the human's face flushed a bright red. "I would stay for some time if I may, Lord Elrond," Halbarad spoke softly, "I wish to walk around these grounds and enjoy the peace." He didn't say anything about helping Estel, knowing that if he did, it would only be taken the wrong way by Elrond's youngest.

"Do you regret it?" Estel asked him all of a sudden, but upon seeing the confused look, elucidated, "Do you regret becoming a ranger – not being able to enjoy peace but in a few places?"

Halbarad smiled gently at that, "No, I do not regret my decision, Master Estel. Being a ranger may be dangerous and we may not be rewarded by those we protect, but it gives an inner peace and sense of satisfaction to give other people the chance to live their lives as we cannot."

Estel snorted at that. It didn't make sense to him how the rangers could be so selfless, that Men could be so selfless.

Elrond was quite pleased to see Estel speaking with the other human. To him it was a sign that his youngest was taking the final step towards healing. The doubt of the younger human was understandable – even when he had been a young child Estel had not been able to believe many things unless he had seen it with his own eyes. "One day you will meet other rangers and witness their actions for yourself, Estel," the elf lord said sensing his son's thoughts, "Then you will see…"

~~~

Several days passed after that in which the two humans would talk more and more during dinner, keeping to light and meaningless conversation, but conversation none the less. The two were probing each other – as if detecting where the boundaries lay. Now it is time, Estel thought, tonight I will speak to Halbarad. He had already asked the twins if they would keep an ear out this night for him.

The twins had immediately agreed – knowing how important this upcoming conversation would be. Only then had Estel asked the ranger if they could speak. Halbarad had been surprised at this request, but had agreed.

And so it was, that after the Sun had laid herself to rest and the Moon was climbing into the sky that two humans were walking through the Halls of Imladris towards the library. Estel opened the door and waited until the ranger had passed, quickly looking behind him and whispering silently to his brothers, "Thank you for doing this for me…" before entering himself and closing the door behind him.

~

"It must have been a terrible thing to experience – your first meeting with one of your own kind and then he turns out to be a monster!" Halbarad said once they had entered the study and sat down. He was wondering what effect this direct approach would have on Estel, but unless they wanted to talk about inane things or uncomfortable silences forming, this was what he had to say…

Estel bristled, angry that his family had told a stranger what had happened to him – no matter that they had told him about Halbarad as well. "They had no right to tell you!"

Halbarad raised his hands, warding off the verbal attack, "Peace, my friend. The only thing I learned from your family and prince Legolas is that you were hurt by a man. They refused to tell me any more and they did not need to." Softening his voice, the ranger continued, "I could tell by the way you moved away from everyone… by the look in your eyes… I remember seeing a similar look in the eyes of my own reflection six years ago."

"You were hurt as well they told me," Estel said, secretly hoping that this would irk the ranger.

Instead, Halbarad smiled gently and shook his head, "I realize the twins would have told you this – it is only fair. Do not judge a race by the actions of one, Master Estel – that is something which took me a long time accept."

Genuinely curious, Estel asked, "How did you? What made you accept?"

The smile grew bitter as Halbarad remembered other times. "Your brothers and later – the rangers…" Seeing that the other still had questions, but was hesitant to ask them, he decided to tell Estel the entire story. They were standing on the edge of friendship and if they wanted to cross it, there should be no secrets between them. Maybe telling this would help the boy in speaking about his own experience.

"It happened when I was eighteen… My parents and I were visiting their friends in one of the villages up north… Some days later, a group of raiders attacked the village – killing everyone they encountered and taking everything of value," Halbarad closed his eyes as the pain of remembering returned, "I was seriously wounded trying to protect myself and a friend, but he and my parents were killed… I knew that not all men were good, but I became convinced that my previous life had all been a lie. I refused to remember my parents, our friends… They were dead, what did they matter?"

The ranger stopped a moment, looking at Estel and seeing that the boy was listening – seeming to recognize some of it. "Your brothers arrived with the Dunédain and killed the marauders, but it was too late – the damage had already been done. Some survived, but my world had collapsed. If it had not been for your brothers, I would have given up and died – I was already on my way, but…"

Estel frowned, "They have a way of convincing people…"

Halbarad smiled wryly, "Indeed they do. My memory of that time is hazy, but I remember wanting to die. They would not let me though… even took me to Rivendell where Lord Elrond helped in my recovery."

Estel looked alarmed, immediately suspicious, "If that was only six years ago, how come I did not see you?"

The ranger shrugged, "I do not know, but the only thing I clearly remember is the room in which I lay. Lord Elrond refused to let me out of the room for the longest time and when I decided I had recovered enough, I –" he finished with muttering something unintelligible.

"What?"

"I sneaked out of Rivendell." Halbarad quickly whispered, his cheeks flushing. "Elladan and Elrohir followed me when they found out and scolded me for leaving so soon. I refused to return to your father – not seeing why he would help me and wondering what was in it for him, so they took care of me and ensured that I would heal completely – working on both physically and mentally. They ended up travelling with me for several months since they refused to leave me alone. In that time they talked to me and told me stories, finally getting me so far that I would meet the rangers. And they stayed until I felt comfortable enough with them. The rangers also were very patient and took the time to learn me their ways. I became a ranger once I realized they really were good people and have remained with them ever since… giving help to those in need."

Estel shook his head, confused. "Why would you protect other people? I have heard how grateful they are towards rangers – even going so far as to treat them as villains!"

"It was not always like this, Estel, but the people have forgotten who we really are. They fear what they do not know and we are unknown to them. But they live their life like they always have – unaware of the dangers that lurk around the corner every day. That is the reason why we do what we do," Halbarad replied. Then thinking of something, the ranger's face lightened, "Please follow me, my friend."

Uncertainty appeared in Estel's gaze, but upon seeing this, Halbarad reassured, "I want to give you something – it is in my room. Do not worry – I am sure the twins would still hear you if you call for them."

Now it was the younger human's turn to blush – indeed Halbarad was not dense. This made Estel wonder whether the other human had known about Legolas following him around as well.

"It is all right, I think it is very courageous of you to speak with me in the first place after…"

"… after Nemo." Estel finished, surprising himself that he spoke of it so openly to someone he was only newly befriending.

Halbarad nodded, "Like I told you, it took me a very long time before I started trusting other people again, so I can understand your caution." The ranger rose, asking with a hand gesture if Estel would follow.

Estel once again forced himself to stand up and follow the other Man, comforted by the idea that he had three elves watching out for him…

~~~

Once in Halbarad's room, the young ranger walked to his bedside table and grabbed the small book he had been reading this past week. Holding it out towards Estel so the younger one could see it, Halbarad waited until the other accepted it.

"Rangers make it possible for people to live their lives, unaware of the dangers that lurk… unaware of the ever growing shadow. Halflings do not even know we exist or protect their borders and no gratitude is ever given from any side, yet the Dunédain are happy to have it remain that way. It is something we can never have for ourselves anymore, this blessed bliss, but that makes it all the more precious if we can give it to others…"

Slowly, Estel's hand reached towards the book. Quickly reading the title, the boy saw it was the book he had dropped what seemed so long ago. This time, his hand closed around the small book and he hugged it to his chest – remembering old times.

"I hope you do not mind, but I read some of it. The author is a Halfling, is he not? The style is so different from what I know – so merry as well…"

Estel smiled slightly, in all of their conversation he had sensed no deceit and after hearing what had happened to the young ranger – being trusted with that sensitive information – he even felt he could relate somewhat to the other man. "He is – he passed through here several years ago when I was only ten years old," Estel shook his head, "You would not believe the company he kept!"

Curious, Halbarad raised an eyebrow.

"Dwarves…" Estel answered the unspoken question, "he was in the company of dwarves."

It was hardly possible that Halbarad's eyebrows climbed up any higher to his hairline, but they did. "Elladan and Elrohir never told me this!"

Both humans were glad that this final step had been taken. Estel finally started to realize that Halbarad could be trusted and the light-hearted conversation worked to break the ice that was slowly melting between them.

Estel inclined his head, "They were not in Imladris at the time and the party left within the month, but when they came back and I told them, they would not believe it. They would not believe that Ada allowed dwarves of all creatures to enter our home!"

"And still cannot!" A muffled voice sounded from behind the closed door.

Smiling, the two humans silently walked over to the door before opening it without warning.

Estel raised one eyebrow, eerily imitating their father when the young ones had been caught doing something they shouldn't do.

Three elves stood near the door, trying to look innocent but not succeeding. Apparently the elves had been too eager to find out how the conversation between the two humans would go to wait for Estel's call – instead deciding to eavesdrop next to the door!

Legolas stammered, "Uhm… I was just – passing by!"

Elrohir scowled at him – so much for sticking together! "And we were just –"

Estel held up his hand, forestalling any excuses that would roll from their mouths. "It is all right, brothers," he said, including Legolas into this statement with a look to the fair haired elf. "I appreciate your concern." Yes, his family would always be there for him. He looked at the other human and though it would still take some time, he was starting to trust the Man. Perhaps they could speak some more about all kinds of things – humans, being a ranger… friends… 

A big smile appeared on the young human's face as he could see it now: all would be well again.

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Epilogue

Many talks took place after that in which Estel opened up more and more to his family and his new friend. The young human improved remarkably well and everyone could see that the haunted look in his grey eyes diminished as time passed. Conversation became less forced and slowly, the bantering of old started again.

Halbarad and Estel, seeing in the other the possibility of a life-long friend, took time to get to know each other better. Many a night they could be found sitting near the warmth of the blazing flames in the Halls of Fire and speaking to each other of things in the past – both good… and bad. Estel listened to the stories Halbarad had to tell about the rangers and – not blinded by his hate and fear for men anymore – became fascinated with them. Light conversation replaced the dark thoughts that threatened to take over and finally, complete trust was given and received from both parties. Estel vowed that when he had come of age, he would join his new friend and become a ranger himself. A friendship had been created which would last for as long as they both lived…

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THE END




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A/N2: As you see, I sort of 'skipped over' certain things because I didn't think them necessary in this story. I hope it didn't come across as too hasty…?


Replies

Purplefluffychainsaw: Nice name by the way… Thank you for you lovely reviews – you don't suck at them, honestly! *blushes at the compliments, a huge smile on my face* Well, I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well!

Strider's Girl: Thank you, thank you! I must say, I am hoarding you stories for when I have time to read them, so when I have I will leave a review for each of them. (I sneak read a few lines and I must say they looked very promising) Don't hold your breath however – bad for your health, not breathing; I couldn't be hold responsible to deprive others who are 'in the boat' with reviewing to be stuck on a cliffie forever! :D

Sr: Sorry to have kept you waiting for so long before I posted the first part; I was just swamped with work… I hope sincerely that you don't think this second part to be 'too fast' if you get what I mean. I tried not rush it…

grumpy: *Blushes at the compliment…* 'wonderful'huh? *turns even redder* Yeah, I just thought there was something missing and I know myself how I hate it when I am left with a 'sucky feeling'. Great you liked the book thingie, read and you will (have) see(n)…

Elven kitten: Thanks for the review – let's see if I brought a happy ending this time, huh?

Elf Girl: Great you liked the previous chapter – I hope you are happy with how this one has turned out to be…

Coolio02: Hi there! Thank you so much for the reviews you sent me… Hope I didn't make you wait too long for this one!

Kathleen LaCorneille: Ah, le francais il y a un tres long temp après pour moi… Sorry for butchering your language, I've only had it for about 2 years and that was about 6 years ago! I'm glad you like my stories and are able to understand them. I know I wouldn't be able to read French, so… You're doing it the right way to learn English, you know – read what you like and you will get better yourself. That's what happened in my case as well…

Charina: Hello there! Wow – so you just keep reading IBS again and again huh? Great that you like it so much – I just read it again to remind myself what it was all about and I tell you – I grimace at my writing there at some pieces. *shivers* Thank you so much for the very nice compliments – they make me feel great. And I'm glad to know that I can move people to tears with my fics. Hope you like what has become of this!

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Would you please touch this little button below again so that I can frighten the people at work with my huge smile?  :D Thank you!