AN: For the next few chapters, we will be cover the dark years where nothing is said of his deeds except, " Aragorn went forth again into danger and toil." So until Gilraen's death, everything is made up. Just wanted to say that so no one kills me. Oh, and on most chapters from here on out, they will begin with a couple lines of a song as an interlude. So enjoy and review.
Chapter 23All alone
Pilgrim how you journey
On the Road you chose
Aragorn kissed his sleeping mother's forehead gently, placing the note beside her on the dresser. He glanced lovingly at her, hoping it was not his last time to see her. He just could not stay here. He needed to think. Could he actually be a king? He turned, and breathed in quickly at the figure in the doorway.
" You would leave again without a proper farewell?"
Aragorn embraced Elrond.
" I need-"
Elrond held up a hand.
" I know. Go. Be at peace."
Aragorn smiled slightly, before pulling up the black hood to disappear into the night. Elrond watched him until the horse disappeared from his sight. Elrond bent down then beside Gilraen to check for a pulse. He sighed in relief and then turned back down the hallway to his room.
~*~
Aragorn's horse stumbled through the last of the raging river. He dismounted, looking around in remembrance. He could almost hear Elrond's voice.
"This is Eregion or Hollin. It was once the finest Elvin city where Elves at one time co-existed with dwarves peacefully. The dwarves would search for the jewels and metals and the Elves would bend them into beautiful things. Celeborn and Galadriel oversaw it for a while, but Celeborn had no love for the dwarves. The craftsmen instead voted for Celebrimbor to be their leader since he was wise, but all the craftsmen were still deceived by Annatar. Tis Sauron, mind you. Named himself the lord of gifts. Pay attention now, Estel. This is where the three Elvish rings were made."
" Do those really exist?" Aragorn had asked.
Elrond had seemed so sad when he answered.
" Aye, but the bearers dare not wear them openly, for the times are perilous."
Elrond bent before him, his eyes lit with a passionate flame.
" People are meant to be free, Estel. Never forget that. You may need that piece of truth one day."
Aragorn shook his head.
*I am going mad. What am I doing thinking of kingship? No. No kingship for me. No matter what the cost.
~*~
He stood at the edge, staring at what had once been the great Beleriand. The wind blew violently around him, stinging his cheeks with bits of ice. He sighed. He was all alone here.
" Írë nauva alassënya (When will be my joy-Q)?" he yelled at the nothingness, " Or will you ever cheat me from it?"
The words leapt soundless upon the wind's fury.
A hand touched his shoulder. He spun around, sword drawn, but it was no one. It had been the wind's teasing, just a figment of his imagination. He strained his ears. He thought he could hear her heavenly voice, but again, it was just the cold wind's howl. He stuffed hands into his pockets, turning back to his horse. He was all alone.
~*~
The Ranger greeted him whole-heartedly.
" I am glad you came. I need your assistance."
Aragorn quickly dismounted, listening intently.
~*~
The 2 were pressed hard against the rocks.
" Are those-" Halbarad began.
Aragorn swung a hand over his companion's mouth. Halbarad was instantly silent, seeing the keen glances their way. Aragorn shook his head. What were these Elves doing? This was no mere exchange of goods.
" Slaves."
Aragorn's blood boiled at the whisper. These were mortal slaves also. Aragorn glanced at Halbarad.
" They are enslaving trespassers and selling them to the Dwarves for labor."
Halbarad nodded, lifting his eyebrows questioningly. Aragorn motioned him closer.
" What's this? Two mortal spies?"
AN: Here we go again. Sorry for not updating sooner, but this chapter has been needing many revisions. I know it's so short, but it's just the beginning.