Diclaimer: I do not own LOTR and am making no money
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Sauron was as good as his word. Over the next two years Aragorn consolidated his power over Mordor's internal affairs. All but ignoring the local lords he changed tithes and taxes. He also enforced a code of conduct on the ruling elite and military. He met all complaints of the elite and military with a raised brow and, if necessary, unsheathed steel. When the complaints inevitably reached Sauron all he did was laugh and tell them to take it up with Lord Telcontar. At the same time Lord Telcontar became a favorite of the people. He was always willing to listen and lend a helping hand. They adored him and would do anything for him. The military, on the other hand, absolutely hated him. He still flat out refused to have anything to do with the increasingly frequent military campaigns. At the same time he kept his own battle skills honed by sparring with the nazgul as well as the top military fighters. And without fail he defeated them all, even when he fought more than one at the same time. None could track or catch him in training exercises nor could they hide from him. That dislike had led to several assassination attempts, five of which were close. Four of those Aragorn had killed himself, the fifth had made the mistake of attempting to kill him in bed. Sauron had reacted extremely badly to being interrupted and to the threat to his consort's life, Aragorn had told him of the attempts but not of the frequency and intensity of the hatred. The would- be assassin had been killed very slowly by Sauron himself. After that there had been no more attempts. Aragorn had never tried to find out just what Sauron had done to end the attempts.
His nights, nearly all of them, were spent in Sauron's arms. To his initial surprise the relationship was much more than sexual. Sauron was interested in his thoughts and ideas, often asking his opinion on issues and not getting overly upset when they disagreed. But he respected Aragorn's vow to stay completely out of the war and never brought it up. He even respected Aragorn's deep-seated need to roam. Despite his dislike of Aragorn's absence for any length of time Sauron made no attempt to stop his infrequent wanderings. For anywhere from two days to two weeks he would roam the lands and villages of Mordor. The almost desperate desolation of the land caused an ache in him that was almost physical in the former ranger's body. Much of his time and energy on these treks were devoted to trying to bring the land back and assist the local peasants. It appeared useless, but Aragorn refused to allow himself to give up hope.
*******************
"How long will you be gone this time?" Sauron asked with only the slightest edge to his voice.
Aragorn finished wrapping his travel pack before turning to face his lover. "No more than a week." Stripping off his overtunic and shirt Aragorn climbed into bed, laying atop Sauron. "Besides you know this is for the best, your top military leaders are all gathered."
Sauron wrapped one arm around his consort's waist and put the other on his neck to pull Aragorn's lips down to his for a deep kiss. "Barad-dur is lonely without you, " he said when he finally released Aragorn from the kiss. "I just wish you would accept a ring."
Moaning in pleasure when Sauron rolled them over and ground their erections together, the Dark Lord seldom let him have the upper hand or position for long, he replied, "I will not change my mind." He pulled Sauron's head down to his for another passionate kiss.
Once his consort had drifted to sleep Sauron propped himself on his elbow to stare down at his face, looking so young in sleep. Lovingly he brushed the unruly dark hair out of his face. With all his heart Sauron wished Aragorn could belong to him as he belonged to Aragorn. But he knew Aragorn's heart forever belonged to his she-elf. But the Dark Lord could not fault his consort for the well-hidden feelings. Aragorn held nothing back from Sauron or their relationship. He gave himself fully in bed and in private. In public he was beloved of the people and held in awe by most of the military, despite the fact that he refused to have anything to do with the war effort. Mordor had never known internal peace like it had in the last two years. And he never spoke of the life he had left behind, although Sauron knew he occasionally thought about it. For the most part he accepted his life and refused to have regrets or begrudge the decision he had made. Not for the first time the Dark Lord wondered what drew him to this man; it was more than good looks and a good body. Aragorn was actually the last person he should ever have cared for. Raised to be Sauron's opposite he radiated a goodness that was at times painful to many of the creatures of Mordor. But Sauron loved him. Once he had accepted that the feeling would not go away he had moved Middle-earth and her people around like pawns until Aragorn agreed to become his. He did not intend to ever let him go. His mere presence created an ease within him that Sauron had never felt before and it was nice not to have to worry about internal rebellions. The so-called free peoples of Middle-earth were annoyance enough.
As Aragorn rolled to cuddle against him Sauron admitted to himself that he was glad he had refused the offered ring. While he did want his consort bound tighter to him he did not wish for it to be by artificial means. As he began to absently caress the lean chest Sauron realized that he did wish to give Aragorn a special gift. As Aragorn pressed back into his body and moaned in his sleep Sauron realized what he could do. Leaning down he traced the shell of Aragorn's ear and received the expected shiver before flicking his tongue into the ear. "Wake up, love," he whispered, the endearment one he was careful to use only when Aragorn was asleep or unrealizing of the words.
Moaning again Aragorn rolled to his back to pull Sauron down to him for a deep kiss. As he slowly made love to his consort Sauron opened himself to Aragorn's essence as he had never dared to do before. The goodness and light were almost overwhelming but the Dark Lord carefully stored them away as they reached passion's peak together and slowly slid into total relaxation. Pulling Aragorn tight against him as he slid back into sleep Sauron smiled. This gift would be perfect.
************
Freezing in his tracks Aragorn strained his ears. Very faintly to the west he could hear screams. As he cautiously moved closer they became clearer as the terrified cries of women and children. Not pausing to think he broke into a run. It was not long before he recognized the signs of a war party. He was close to Gondor's borders. A border skirmish. His eyes narrowed in distaste and anger. The winners were terrorizing the surviving women and children. He was careful to keep his passage quiet and untraceable. His blood was boiling. Aragorn paused a moment just outside the small farming village to regain his composure and rein in his emotions, he also slipped on his coronet. "Cease at once!" he commanded as he strode into the Village Square. With relief he realized he was in time. The women were bound and lined up for inspection, but none showed any signs of having been touched. The children were all gathered together, but they too showed no signs of being abused. "Lord Telcontar demands you stand down, at once!" He threw every once of command he possessed into the order.
All eyes turned to him. The man he recognized as the commander stalked up to him. "Lord Telcontar has nothing to do with the war," he stated belligerently.
Aragorn met the scornful gaze without flinching. "By my choice. And this is not war. These are innocents in the battle." He took a step forward as his hand drifted to the small of his back, where it was known he kept his elven dagger. "Do you care to challenge me?" His voice was pleasant despite the anger seething inside him.
Disgusted Aragorn watched as the commander hastily backed down. "As you command," he muttered.
With effort Aragorn kept his relief hidden behind a cold, self-assured exterior. If the entire company chose to defy him he could not win. "Untie them," he ordered. Once that was done he stepped up to the women, who had quickly gathered the children to them. "I will take you to safety," he told them, making his voice soft and reassuring, one he had used many times during his years as a ranger. "You will not be hurt." His cold eyes turned back to the soldiers. "Return to your duty." Softening his eyes and expression he turned back to the women. "Gather what you must, but take no more than you can easily carry. We have at least a days journey."
Within an hour they had set out. It was not what Aragorn would call one of his more comfortable journeys. The women were afraid of him and the children followed their lead. While he had often been distrusted by those he protected or led it was not something he had ever truly adjusted to. Oh well, it was only for a few days. Sauron would be upset, this detour would delay his return by at least a week. Glancing behind him at the confused, scared, and weary woman and chilldren he shrugged that concern away. This was more important.
************
Faramir held up a hand to halt his rangers and listened more intently. The sound of many people tramping through the forest traveled loudly through the still air. Holding up a hand he signaled his rangers into hiding. He watched curiously as a man stepped into the small clearing, leading about a hundred women and children. The man, dressed in worn traveling clothes, stopped and looked around. Faramir felt as though he and all his men were exposed. "I come here in peace," he announced. "I wish to deliver these innocents into your protective hands."
Signaling to his men to remain hidden Faramir stepped forward into the clearing. "What happened?"
A young woman carrying a toddler stepped forward. "Our village was attacked. Lord Telcontar prevented the soldiers from harming us and has guided us safely here." She glanced up at their protector with a shy smile. "He would not allow any of us to be touched."
At the name Faramir's eyes shot back to the man. He was standing completely relaxed in the center of the clearing despite being surrounded by enemies. The steward's youngest son had no doubt that Lord Telcontar knew about his concealed rangers. Briefly he reviewed what he knew about Sauron's consort. The truth was very little. Only that the common people loved him and the military hated him and that he refused to participate in the battle with the free peoples. And that he was rumored to be originally from the north. What he saw was a man with complete confidence in himself who appeared content with the choices he had made. He sensed a core of goodness that surprised him. Faramir decided he would not want to cross this man, but if circumstances were different would follow him without question or doubt. "Why?"
The shuttered eyes met his. "They are innocents. I can make no promises since I have nothing to do with the attacks, but I will do my best to see that no non-combatants are harmed. I expect the same of you." Without another word he turned and walked away, disappearing back into the forest.
Not moving Faramir watched him go. He signaled two of his men to follow but was not surprised when they returned to report that he had vanished. He knew his father would berate him for not taking the man prisoner or killing him outright. Faramir himself wondered why the thought had not even occurred to him. Even if it had, he acknowledged to himself, he could not have made himself act on it. Lord Telcontar had acted honorably in returning the civilian. He could not repay that act with treachery. There was more to this Lord Telcontar than simply being Sauron's consort. As the young captain led the survivors to the relative safety of Gondor's guarded borders Faramir knew with certainty that he would meet Telcontar again. And most surprising of all, he was looking forward to it.
********************
Not bothering to stifle his yawn Aragorn walked through the black gates and into Mordor. Immediately he felt the cold chill of his guardian nazgul take up position behind him, but it was no more than an acknowledgement. The waves of fear radiating off them no longer phased him any more than the doors to the great hall did. He guessed that after a while the body just couldn't survive on those instincts so tuned them out. Although not affected by the presence of evil he was extra sensitive to being in its presence, or could sense when it approached. As he strolled to Barad-dur he was too tired to worry about the confrontation he would most likely have with Sauron. Not only had he saved Gondorian innocents and given standing orders about the treatment of prisoners to the army, but he was also almost three weeks late in returning. Granted he had sent word, but he had still been gone just under a month. At least it was evening and he would see Sauron alone. No councils were permitted to extend beyond the dinner hour and tomorrow was a day of rest. Stumbling into hies room he was not surprised to see the bed turned down and waiting for him. Quickly stripping off his clothes he collapsed on the bed, his last thought curiosity about why Sauron was not there to greet him. Sleeps welcoming arms enfolded him before he could puzzle it out.
The moon had risen fully in the sky when Aragorn woke. His internal clock told him he been asleep for nearly three hours. Yawning he wearily pushed himself to a sitting position, glancing at the door that separated his chambers form Sauron's. The Dark Lord had not come to greet him. Aragorn was not sure what to think about the lack. Always before Sauron had been waiting for him or had come to him as soon as he was free. For a moment he stared at the closed door, silently debating. In the two plus years he had been ruling consort he had never entered Sauron's rooms. The Dark Lord always came to him. Making up his mind he rose and pulled on his robe walking to the door. He hesitated a moment before pulling it open. Evil lived in this room, although it was no longer as strong as it had once been. Taking a deep breath he stepped into the darkened room.
Sauron snapped awake at the sound of his door latch being thrown. He did not need to sleep often but when he did it was long and deep. Sitting up he was surprised to see his consort standing in the dim light thrown from his room. While he had known Aragorn would return this evening he had been too tired to go to him, even though his desire for his consort was almost painful. "Aragorn?"
Almost hesitantly Aragorn walked over to him. "I was just wandering if everything was alright?"
When he stopped near the edge of the bed Sauron groaned in realization and desire. Aragorn was clad only in his short silk robe, loosely tied. "Now it is." Before his consort could respond Sauron pulled him down to the bed and rolled on top of him, capturing his lips in an intense kiss. It had been too long.
"Satisfied, my consort?" he whispered later as he pulled Aragorn to him,spooning around him.
Completely relaxed with exhaustion creeeping back up on him Aragorn found himself unable to find the energy to reply. Body completely spent he could not even find the energy to move. Relaxing into the comfortable and by now familiar embrace he asked, "why?" At the same time he did not bother to stifle his yawn or explain more fully. Sauron could read the question in his mind.
"Get some rest," Saauron chided instead of replying and dropped a light kiss on his head. "We will talk when you wake."
Too tired to debate Aragorn allowed his eyes to close. Sleep instantly enfolded him.
**************
Consciousness returned slowly to Aragorn. The first thing he was aware of was a sense of complete relaxation, second he was held tight in a warm embrace. A warm embrace? The last realization shot him to complete wakefulness. Opening his eyes he glanced behind him. Sauron was spooned tight against his back. For a moment Aragorn wondered if he was still asleep. While he had often fallen asleep with Sauron holding him, he had never woken up in the his embrace. When he had questioned Sauron had told him he needed little or no sleep most nights. Memories of the night before washing over him he again wondered about Sauron's need for complete control, especially when he had just returned. His goal was not Aragorn's submission, but more like he was restaking a claim. Deep in his heart he knew Sauron loved him in ways Aragorn could not return, even had he wanted to. His heart still belonged to Arwen and in the north. There were nights when he stared up at the evening star and felt an almost physical ache at all he had lost or given up as the desire to see his friends and family overwhelmed him. Most of the time he was able to rein in or push those desires to the back of his mind, but they were still there, and Sauron knew it.
Closing his eyes he pushed the homesickness into a box in the back of his mind and sealed it shut. He was making a difference here and his life was not that bad. He was able to make a difference here. The common people were living better lives and were not under an iron rule any longer. They also had a way to let their grievances be known and not be punished for it. Idly he let his mind run over the list of things he would have to do and meetings he would arrange. While the lords no longer openly defied him they did their best to sneak around his rules, and after a three week absence he knew there was going to be a lot of clean-up to do. Mordor was not home, nor did he think it ever would be, but he had carved himself a comfortable niche. And if his presence brought some light to this place of darkness and the innocents trapped within, it was not so high a price to pay.
"You dream of your past," Sauron whispered in his ear.
Rolling to his back Aragorn shrugged, feeling Sauron's arms shift to accommodate his new position. "Not really. I have a lot to catch up on." Aragorn was not sure what the response to his comment would be. They still had to discuss his extra long absence and the new orders he had given the army. "I half wish today was not a rest day."
With a nod Sauron propped himself up on an elbow. "You were gone longer than expected and left standing orders for the military."
Not willing to back down on this issue Aragorn met Sauron's eyes. "Only in regards to civilians. And before you say anything I informed Gondor's captain that I expect the same treatment on their part."
Unable to hide his surprise Sauron raised an eyebrow. "Their behavior?"
Aragorn responded with a knowing look. "You know what I mean. In the heat of battle and the glow of victory it is easy for warriors to forget themselves. I will not see innocents hurt over raging emotions. Not when I can prevent it."
Without replying Sauron rose and walked to his desk. While he rummaged within it Aragorn sat up to lean against the headboard, pulling his robe closed and tying it loosely. The idea of a hot bath was calling out to him. After a few minutes of searching Sauron closed the desk and walked back over to him. In his hand he held a simple silver bracelet that he held out to Aragorn.
Cautiously Aragorn took it, and felt a jolt go through him. Reflexively he dropped the circlet to the bed, looking up at Sauron, his questions written plainly on his face. It was only for a moment before his eyes and attention were drawn back to the bracelet. Unable to help himself he hesitantly reached out to touch it. "Sauron?" he asked. The bracelet did not feel evil, not like the ringwraith's rings felt when they were near to him, but- The feelings it evoked in him were of green grass and tall trees, love and happiness, and strongest of all peace. "Sauron?" he asked again when there was no immediate answer.
The Dark Lord sat down beside him and picked up the bracelet, flinching a little as he did so. "It is yours," he replied, sliding it onto the unresisting wrist. Immediately it adjusted to fit smoothly. "Do not worry, it in no way binds you to me or to the One Ring."
Aragorn was staring down at the bracelet nestled on his wrist. Closing his eyes he could feel his convictions and belief's strengthening. Sinking deeper into himself he sought that hidden piece of himself. It appeared untouched. Idly a part of him wondered if he could trust his senses. After a moment he shrugged that thoutht away. He could no lose his belief in himself or his ability to feel compassion. The loss of either would kill him faster than a sword to the heart. "What?"
"It is you. I stored some of your essence," lightly Sauron reached out to brush his consort's unruly dark hair back. The light shining from him was almost painful for the Dark Lord to be around. He had succeeded in his goal better than he had ever expected to. A part of Sauron still cried out in denial of that strengthening. The more Aragorn fell into the evil that surrounded him the more he would belong to Sauron No, he made himself face the truth once again. If he were to allow Aragorn to change that much he would lose the person he had fallen in love with. It was the very blending of light and dark in the man that help him captive And while he hated being captive to anything he was not willing to lose the feelings Aragorn aroused in him or in his body. "While you were gone I fashioned this for you. Now you need to have no fear of losing yourself, this bracelet is the very essence of you and will help and protect that specialness inside you. I believe it will even prevent the One Ring from calling to you when I regain it."
Fear racing through him at that thought Aragorn shoved those words into the back of his mind. Hopefully the ring was lost forever and would remain that way. But the foresight his heritage left him told him that the ring was still to be heard of in this age. Although Aragorn had no idea how or when, or even how he would be involved. Only that he would be. Thoughts still spinning to fast to be coherent Aragorn could only nod acknowledgement of the words.
A light kiss was dropped on his brow and he could hear Sauron's smile. "Go take your bath, I have ordered it prepared. Once you are recovered we can talk about what all you missed and what must be done."
Eyes still on the bracelet Aragorn nodded and rose. At the door he stopped. "Thank you."
Sauron watched him go, sadness in his eyes. "You are welcome." He knew this was the first step to losing is consort completely.
*************
Over the next few weeks Aragorn was aware of his senses sharpening. The evil aura that surrounded much of Barad-dur and which he had learned to ignore, was again causing him discomfort. During councils he found himself fighting to sit still as the evil seemed to press in on him. Beside him Sauron seemed aware of his discomfort but said nothing. In an attempt to relieve the discomfort he had tried leaving the bracelet in his room during council, but that had only lasted the morning. He did not feel complete without it. It was not that he could function or even that he felt overly weak, just incomplete. More than once he found himself staring down at the plain band, wondering if he was insane to keep it. But it did not feel evil, rather it seemed to strengthen his inner convictions of right and wrong and reinforce his desire to enforce a level of fairness in Mordor. The nazgul and orcs were also keeping a further distance from him, as though uncomfortable in his presence. Most surprising of all was that he had not felt Sauron touch his thoughts at all since he was given the bracelet. Granted it was not something that happened often, Sauron made it a point not to read his thoughts out of respect, but he had grown accustomed to the feel of the Dark Lord's mind brushing against his every so often. Now he was aware of a mind skimming his but it was instinctive to block it. He wondered in what other ways the bracelet was changing him. It did not feel evil or wrong, simply a part of him that helped to strengthen his convictions and opinions. Unless something drastic changed that he missed he did not have to worry now about losing himself in the persona it was necessary for him to play out everywhere except in his private rooms or when he was traveling, and then if there were any but the peasants he could not drop his façade. Lord Telcontar, ruling consort of Mordor had become all too real in the last two years. The longer he was here the more he could feel his compassion being drained away. There was so much evil and cruelty in most of the rulers here that it was difficult not to harden himself against the pain of the innocents. His hardest battles were the ones he fought internally so he could make a difference. Without being aware of it his right hand encircled the bracelet as he reinforced his beliefs. He was making a difference and if he just persisted he could change more. He had to believe and hope that good could and would win in the end. No, he would not give up hope that peace and prosperity could return to Middle-earth. He would not.
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Sauron was as good as his word. Over the next two years Aragorn consolidated his power over Mordor's internal affairs. All but ignoring the local lords he changed tithes and taxes. He also enforced a code of conduct on the ruling elite and military. He met all complaints of the elite and military with a raised brow and, if necessary, unsheathed steel. When the complaints inevitably reached Sauron all he did was laugh and tell them to take it up with Lord Telcontar. At the same time Lord Telcontar became a favorite of the people. He was always willing to listen and lend a helping hand. They adored him and would do anything for him. The military, on the other hand, absolutely hated him. He still flat out refused to have anything to do with the increasingly frequent military campaigns. At the same time he kept his own battle skills honed by sparring with the nazgul as well as the top military fighters. And without fail he defeated them all, even when he fought more than one at the same time. None could track or catch him in training exercises nor could they hide from him. That dislike had led to several assassination attempts, five of which were close. Four of those Aragorn had killed himself, the fifth had made the mistake of attempting to kill him in bed. Sauron had reacted extremely badly to being interrupted and to the threat to his consort's life, Aragorn had told him of the attempts but not of the frequency and intensity of the hatred. The would- be assassin had been killed very slowly by Sauron himself. After that there had been no more attempts. Aragorn had never tried to find out just what Sauron had done to end the attempts.
His nights, nearly all of them, were spent in Sauron's arms. To his initial surprise the relationship was much more than sexual. Sauron was interested in his thoughts and ideas, often asking his opinion on issues and not getting overly upset when they disagreed. But he respected Aragorn's vow to stay completely out of the war and never brought it up. He even respected Aragorn's deep-seated need to roam. Despite his dislike of Aragorn's absence for any length of time Sauron made no attempt to stop his infrequent wanderings. For anywhere from two days to two weeks he would roam the lands and villages of Mordor. The almost desperate desolation of the land caused an ache in him that was almost physical in the former ranger's body. Much of his time and energy on these treks were devoted to trying to bring the land back and assist the local peasants. It appeared useless, but Aragorn refused to allow himself to give up hope.
*******************
"How long will you be gone this time?" Sauron asked with only the slightest edge to his voice.
Aragorn finished wrapping his travel pack before turning to face his lover. "No more than a week." Stripping off his overtunic and shirt Aragorn climbed into bed, laying atop Sauron. "Besides you know this is for the best, your top military leaders are all gathered."
Sauron wrapped one arm around his consort's waist and put the other on his neck to pull Aragorn's lips down to his for a deep kiss. "Barad-dur is lonely without you, " he said when he finally released Aragorn from the kiss. "I just wish you would accept a ring."
Moaning in pleasure when Sauron rolled them over and ground their erections together, the Dark Lord seldom let him have the upper hand or position for long, he replied, "I will not change my mind." He pulled Sauron's head down to his for another passionate kiss.
Once his consort had drifted to sleep Sauron propped himself on his elbow to stare down at his face, looking so young in sleep. Lovingly he brushed the unruly dark hair out of his face. With all his heart Sauron wished Aragorn could belong to him as he belonged to Aragorn. But he knew Aragorn's heart forever belonged to his she-elf. But the Dark Lord could not fault his consort for the well-hidden feelings. Aragorn held nothing back from Sauron or their relationship. He gave himself fully in bed and in private. In public he was beloved of the people and held in awe by most of the military, despite the fact that he refused to have anything to do with the war effort. Mordor had never known internal peace like it had in the last two years. And he never spoke of the life he had left behind, although Sauron knew he occasionally thought about it. For the most part he accepted his life and refused to have regrets or begrudge the decision he had made. Not for the first time the Dark Lord wondered what drew him to this man; it was more than good looks and a good body. Aragorn was actually the last person he should ever have cared for. Raised to be Sauron's opposite he radiated a goodness that was at times painful to many of the creatures of Mordor. But Sauron loved him. Once he had accepted that the feeling would not go away he had moved Middle-earth and her people around like pawns until Aragorn agreed to become his. He did not intend to ever let him go. His mere presence created an ease within him that Sauron had never felt before and it was nice not to have to worry about internal rebellions. The so-called free peoples of Middle-earth were annoyance enough.
As Aragorn rolled to cuddle against him Sauron admitted to himself that he was glad he had refused the offered ring. While he did want his consort bound tighter to him he did not wish for it to be by artificial means. As he began to absently caress the lean chest Sauron realized that he did wish to give Aragorn a special gift. As Aragorn pressed back into his body and moaned in his sleep Sauron realized what he could do. Leaning down he traced the shell of Aragorn's ear and received the expected shiver before flicking his tongue into the ear. "Wake up, love," he whispered, the endearment one he was careful to use only when Aragorn was asleep or unrealizing of the words.
Moaning again Aragorn rolled to his back to pull Sauron down to him for a deep kiss. As he slowly made love to his consort Sauron opened himself to Aragorn's essence as he had never dared to do before. The goodness and light were almost overwhelming but the Dark Lord carefully stored them away as they reached passion's peak together and slowly slid into total relaxation. Pulling Aragorn tight against him as he slid back into sleep Sauron smiled. This gift would be perfect.
************
Freezing in his tracks Aragorn strained his ears. Very faintly to the west he could hear screams. As he cautiously moved closer they became clearer as the terrified cries of women and children. Not pausing to think he broke into a run. It was not long before he recognized the signs of a war party. He was close to Gondor's borders. A border skirmish. His eyes narrowed in distaste and anger. The winners were terrorizing the surviving women and children. He was careful to keep his passage quiet and untraceable. His blood was boiling. Aragorn paused a moment just outside the small farming village to regain his composure and rein in his emotions, he also slipped on his coronet. "Cease at once!" he commanded as he strode into the Village Square. With relief he realized he was in time. The women were bound and lined up for inspection, but none showed any signs of having been touched. The children were all gathered together, but they too showed no signs of being abused. "Lord Telcontar demands you stand down, at once!" He threw every once of command he possessed into the order.
All eyes turned to him. The man he recognized as the commander stalked up to him. "Lord Telcontar has nothing to do with the war," he stated belligerently.
Aragorn met the scornful gaze without flinching. "By my choice. And this is not war. These are innocents in the battle." He took a step forward as his hand drifted to the small of his back, where it was known he kept his elven dagger. "Do you care to challenge me?" His voice was pleasant despite the anger seething inside him.
Disgusted Aragorn watched as the commander hastily backed down. "As you command," he muttered.
With effort Aragorn kept his relief hidden behind a cold, self-assured exterior. If the entire company chose to defy him he could not win. "Untie them," he ordered. Once that was done he stepped up to the women, who had quickly gathered the children to them. "I will take you to safety," he told them, making his voice soft and reassuring, one he had used many times during his years as a ranger. "You will not be hurt." His cold eyes turned back to the soldiers. "Return to your duty." Softening his eyes and expression he turned back to the women. "Gather what you must, but take no more than you can easily carry. We have at least a days journey."
Within an hour they had set out. It was not what Aragorn would call one of his more comfortable journeys. The women were afraid of him and the children followed their lead. While he had often been distrusted by those he protected or led it was not something he had ever truly adjusted to. Oh well, it was only for a few days. Sauron would be upset, this detour would delay his return by at least a week. Glancing behind him at the confused, scared, and weary woman and chilldren he shrugged that concern away. This was more important.
************
Faramir held up a hand to halt his rangers and listened more intently. The sound of many people tramping through the forest traveled loudly through the still air. Holding up a hand he signaled his rangers into hiding. He watched curiously as a man stepped into the small clearing, leading about a hundred women and children. The man, dressed in worn traveling clothes, stopped and looked around. Faramir felt as though he and all his men were exposed. "I come here in peace," he announced. "I wish to deliver these innocents into your protective hands."
Signaling to his men to remain hidden Faramir stepped forward into the clearing. "What happened?"
A young woman carrying a toddler stepped forward. "Our village was attacked. Lord Telcontar prevented the soldiers from harming us and has guided us safely here." She glanced up at their protector with a shy smile. "He would not allow any of us to be touched."
At the name Faramir's eyes shot back to the man. He was standing completely relaxed in the center of the clearing despite being surrounded by enemies. The steward's youngest son had no doubt that Lord Telcontar knew about his concealed rangers. Briefly he reviewed what he knew about Sauron's consort. The truth was very little. Only that the common people loved him and the military hated him and that he refused to participate in the battle with the free peoples. And that he was rumored to be originally from the north. What he saw was a man with complete confidence in himself who appeared content with the choices he had made. He sensed a core of goodness that surprised him. Faramir decided he would not want to cross this man, but if circumstances were different would follow him without question or doubt. "Why?"
The shuttered eyes met his. "They are innocents. I can make no promises since I have nothing to do with the attacks, but I will do my best to see that no non-combatants are harmed. I expect the same of you." Without another word he turned and walked away, disappearing back into the forest.
Not moving Faramir watched him go. He signaled two of his men to follow but was not surprised when they returned to report that he had vanished. He knew his father would berate him for not taking the man prisoner or killing him outright. Faramir himself wondered why the thought had not even occurred to him. Even if it had, he acknowledged to himself, he could not have made himself act on it. Lord Telcontar had acted honorably in returning the civilian. He could not repay that act with treachery. There was more to this Lord Telcontar than simply being Sauron's consort. As the young captain led the survivors to the relative safety of Gondor's guarded borders Faramir knew with certainty that he would meet Telcontar again. And most surprising of all, he was looking forward to it.
********************
Not bothering to stifle his yawn Aragorn walked through the black gates and into Mordor. Immediately he felt the cold chill of his guardian nazgul take up position behind him, but it was no more than an acknowledgement. The waves of fear radiating off them no longer phased him any more than the doors to the great hall did. He guessed that after a while the body just couldn't survive on those instincts so tuned them out. Although not affected by the presence of evil he was extra sensitive to being in its presence, or could sense when it approached. As he strolled to Barad-dur he was too tired to worry about the confrontation he would most likely have with Sauron. Not only had he saved Gondorian innocents and given standing orders about the treatment of prisoners to the army, but he was also almost three weeks late in returning. Granted he had sent word, but he had still been gone just under a month. At least it was evening and he would see Sauron alone. No councils were permitted to extend beyond the dinner hour and tomorrow was a day of rest. Stumbling into hies room he was not surprised to see the bed turned down and waiting for him. Quickly stripping off his clothes he collapsed on the bed, his last thought curiosity about why Sauron was not there to greet him. Sleeps welcoming arms enfolded him before he could puzzle it out.
The moon had risen fully in the sky when Aragorn woke. His internal clock told him he been asleep for nearly three hours. Yawning he wearily pushed himself to a sitting position, glancing at the door that separated his chambers form Sauron's. The Dark Lord had not come to greet him. Aragorn was not sure what to think about the lack. Always before Sauron had been waiting for him or had come to him as soon as he was free. For a moment he stared at the closed door, silently debating. In the two plus years he had been ruling consort he had never entered Sauron's rooms. The Dark Lord always came to him. Making up his mind he rose and pulled on his robe walking to the door. He hesitated a moment before pulling it open. Evil lived in this room, although it was no longer as strong as it had once been. Taking a deep breath he stepped into the darkened room.
Sauron snapped awake at the sound of his door latch being thrown. He did not need to sleep often but when he did it was long and deep. Sitting up he was surprised to see his consort standing in the dim light thrown from his room. While he had known Aragorn would return this evening he had been too tired to go to him, even though his desire for his consort was almost painful. "Aragorn?"
Almost hesitantly Aragorn walked over to him. "I was just wandering if everything was alright?"
When he stopped near the edge of the bed Sauron groaned in realization and desire. Aragorn was clad only in his short silk robe, loosely tied. "Now it is." Before his consort could respond Sauron pulled him down to the bed and rolled on top of him, capturing his lips in an intense kiss. It had been too long.
"Satisfied, my consort?" he whispered later as he pulled Aragorn to him,spooning around him.
Completely relaxed with exhaustion creeeping back up on him Aragorn found himself unable to find the energy to reply. Body completely spent he could not even find the energy to move. Relaxing into the comfortable and by now familiar embrace he asked, "why?" At the same time he did not bother to stifle his yawn or explain more fully. Sauron could read the question in his mind.
"Get some rest," Saauron chided instead of replying and dropped a light kiss on his head. "We will talk when you wake."
Too tired to debate Aragorn allowed his eyes to close. Sleep instantly enfolded him.
**************
Consciousness returned slowly to Aragorn. The first thing he was aware of was a sense of complete relaxation, second he was held tight in a warm embrace. A warm embrace? The last realization shot him to complete wakefulness. Opening his eyes he glanced behind him. Sauron was spooned tight against his back. For a moment Aragorn wondered if he was still asleep. While he had often fallen asleep with Sauron holding him, he had never woken up in the his embrace. When he had questioned Sauron had told him he needed little or no sleep most nights. Memories of the night before washing over him he again wondered about Sauron's need for complete control, especially when he had just returned. His goal was not Aragorn's submission, but more like he was restaking a claim. Deep in his heart he knew Sauron loved him in ways Aragorn could not return, even had he wanted to. His heart still belonged to Arwen and in the north. There were nights when he stared up at the evening star and felt an almost physical ache at all he had lost or given up as the desire to see his friends and family overwhelmed him. Most of the time he was able to rein in or push those desires to the back of his mind, but they were still there, and Sauron knew it.
Closing his eyes he pushed the homesickness into a box in the back of his mind and sealed it shut. He was making a difference here and his life was not that bad. He was able to make a difference here. The common people were living better lives and were not under an iron rule any longer. They also had a way to let their grievances be known and not be punished for it. Idly he let his mind run over the list of things he would have to do and meetings he would arrange. While the lords no longer openly defied him they did their best to sneak around his rules, and after a three week absence he knew there was going to be a lot of clean-up to do. Mordor was not home, nor did he think it ever would be, but he had carved himself a comfortable niche. And if his presence brought some light to this place of darkness and the innocents trapped within, it was not so high a price to pay.
"You dream of your past," Sauron whispered in his ear.
Rolling to his back Aragorn shrugged, feeling Sauron's arms shift to accommodate his new position. "Not really. I have a lot to catch up on." Aragorn was not sure what the response to his comment would be. They still had to discuss his extra long absence and the new orders he had given the army. "I half wish today was not a rest day."
With a nod Sauron propped himself up on an elbow. "You were gone longer than expected and left standing orders for the military."
Not willing to back down on this issue Aragorn met Sauron's eyes. "Only in regards to civilians. And before you say anything I informed Gondor's captain that I expect the same treatment on their part."
Unable to hide his surprise Sauron raised an eyebrow. "Their behavior?"
Aragorn responded with a knowing look. "You know what I mean. In the heat of battle and the glow of victory it is easy for warriors to forget themselves. I will not see innocents hurt over raging emotions. Not when I can prevent it."
Without replying Sauron rose and walked to his desk. While he rummaged within it Aragorn sat up to lean against the headboard, pulling his robe closed and tying it loosely. The idea of a hot bath was calling out to him. After a few minutes of searching Sauron closed the desk and walked back over to him. In his hand he held a simple silver bracelet that he held out to Aragorn.
Cautiously Aragorn took it, and felt a jolt go through him. Reflexively he dropped the circlet to the bed, looking up at Sauron, his questions written plainly on his face. It was only for a moment before his eyes and attention were drawn back to the bracelet. Unable to help himself he hesitantly reached out to touch it. "Sauron?" he asked. The bracelet did not feel evil, not like the ringwraith's rings felt when they were near to him, but- The feelings it evoked in him were of green grass and tall trees, love and happiness, and strongest of all peace. "Sauron?" he asked again when there was no immediate answer.
The Dark Lord sat down beside him and picked up the bracelet, flinching a little as he did so. "It is yours," he replied, sliding it onto the unresisting wrist. Immediately it adjusted to fit smoothly. "Do not worry, it in no way binds you to me or to the One Ring."
Aragorn was staring down at the bracelet nestled on his wrist. Closing his eyes he could feel his convictions and belief's strengthening. Sinking deeper into himself he sought that hidden piece of himself. It appeared untouched. Idly a part of him wondered if he could trust his senses. After a moment he shrugged that thoutht away. He could no lose his belief in himself or his ability to feel compassion. The loss of either would kill him faster than a sword to the heart. "What?"
"It is you. I stored some of your essence," lightly Sauron reached out to brush his consort's unruly dark hair back. The light shining from him was almost painful for the Dark Lord to be around. He had succeeded in his goal better than he had ever expected to. A part of Sauron still cried out in denial of that strengthening. The more Aragorn fell into the evil that surrounded him the more he would belong to Sauron No, he made himself face the truth once again. If he were to allow Aragorn to change that much he would lose the person he had fallen in love with. It was the very blending of light and dark in the man that help him captive And while he hated being captive to anything he was not willing to lose the feelings Aragorn aroused in him or in his body. "While you were gone I fashioned this for you. Now you need to have no fear of losing yourself, this bracelet is the very essence of you and will help and protect that specialness inside you. I believe it will even prevent the One Ring from calling to you when I regain it."
Fear racing through him at that thought Aragorn shoved those words into the back of his mind. Hopefully the ring was lost forever and would remain that way. But the foresight his heritage left him told him that the ring was still to be heard of in this age. Although Aragorn had no idea how or when, or even how he would be involved. Only that he would be. Thoughts still spinning to fast to be coherent Aragorn could only nod acknowledgement of the words.
A light kiss was dropped on his brow and he could hear Sauron's smile. "Go take your bath, I have ordered it prepared. Once you are recovered we can talk about what all you missed and what must be done."
Eyes still on the bracelet Aragorn nodded and rose. At the door he stopped. "Thank you."
Sauron watched him go, sadness in his eyes. "You are welcome." He knew this was the first step to losing is consort completely.
*************
Over the next few weeks Aragorn was aware of his senses sharpening. The evil aura that surrounded much of Barad-dur and which he had learned to ignore, was again causing him discomfort. During councils he found himself fighting to sit still as the evil seemed to press in on him. Beside him Sauron seemed aware of his discomfort but said nothing. In an attempt to relieve the discomfort he had tried leaving the bracelet in his room during council, but that had only lasted the morning. He did not feel complete without it. It was not that he could function or even that he felt overly weak, just incomplete. More than once he found himself staring down at the plain band, wondering if he was insane to keep it. But it did not feel evil, rather it seemed to strengthen his inner convictions of right and wrong and reinforce his desire to enforce a level of fairness in Mordor. The nazgul and orcs were also keeping a further distance from him, as though uncomfortable in his presence. Most surprising of all was that he had not felt Sauron touch his thoughts at all since he was given the bracelet. Granted it was not something that happened often, Sauron made it a point not to read his thoughts out of respect, but he had grown accustomed to the feel of the Dark Lord's mind brushing against his every so often. Now he was aware of a mind skimming his but it was instinctive to block it. He wondered in what other ways the bracelet was changing him. It did not feel evil or wrong, simply a part of him that helped to strengthen his convictions and opinions. Unless something drastic changed that he missed he did not have to worry now about losing himself in the persona it was necessary for him to play out everywhere except in his private rooms or when he was traveling, and then if there were any but the peasants he could not drop his façade. Lord Telcontar, ruling consort of Mordor had become all too real in the last two years. The longer he was here the more he could feel his compassion being drained away. There was so much evil and cruelty in most of the rulers here that it was difficult not to harden himself against the pain of the innocents. His hardest battles were the ones he fought internally so he could make a difference. Without being aware of it his right hand encircled the bracelet as he reinforced his beliefs. He was making a difference and if he just persisted he could change more. He had to believe and hope that good could and would win in the end. No, he would not give up hope that peace and prosperity could return to Middle-earth. He would not.