Starlight Through the Rain

Disclaimer: I own nothing. All characters and locations belong to J.R.R. Tolkien. I write for the entertainment of others and myself. All flames will be used as a heat source.

Summary: AU: Arwen finds what she is truly searching for as time passes.

Chapter 1: Among the Stars

Word had passed through the valley of Imladris- of a newcomer, since Arwen had arrived home from Lorien. Many strange rumors had crossed the elven princess' ears. Arwen was normally not the curious type, though somehow this intrigued her. Her conscience told her what decisions to make and she never second-guessed it.

It was mid-day in on a beautiful spring morning that Arwen decided to ask her father of these strange words about. She was planning to spend a few more winters within the realm of her mother's kin, in far Lothlorien in the near future. She found it wise to seek out the base of these rumors as soon as was permitted.

Arwen wandered the house of Elrond in search of her father. After moments she found whom it was that she sought, in his study, hovering over a piece of parchment. She spoke softly, as not to startle him, "Father?"

"Not now, Undomiel. I'm quite busy. Is something of importance amiss?"

"No father, it is nothing of importance." Arwen frowned and walked from Elrond's study.

The gardens of Imladris always eased her mind. As she ascended the steps soundlessly though paused when she reached the top, hearing a soft laugh and what seemed like running.

Arwen walked forward, though she quickly found herself on the ground, a young boy, who looked to be about the age of ten sat before her; A look of awe and shock displayed on his face.

"Excuse me, my lady!" The child spoke apologetically.

Arwen smiled at the adorable and polite child that sat before her.

"Oh, it's quite alright young one. What is your name?"

"Estel," the child announced proudly.

"Hope." Arwen echoed softly.

"Hope?"

Arwen smiled again, "Yes. Estel means hope in the Sindarin tongue."

The boy still seemed a bit confused, but smiled a little. "What's your name?"

"Arwen. You may call me by that name, Undomiel, or Evenstar."

Estel's brow furrowed slightly in thought.

"I suppose I shall call you Arwen, since it is such a lovely name, though I do like Undomiel just as much. Perhaps I shall alternate between them as I please."

"Very well then, Estel."

Arwen heard a call from what sounded to be a woman. She watched as Estel stood up and held out a hand to help Arwen up. She was quite surprised by his strength, as she was pulled up onto her feet.

"I have to be going now, Lady Arwen, my mother is calling. Perhaps you would join me this evening to gaze upon the stars."

"I believe I would enjoy that, Estel." Arwen smiled warmly.

A bright smile alighted Estel's face as he took her hand in his and placed a kiss on the back of her hand before he bowed slightly and bounded off. Arwen smiled as she watched him go.