Look! The next chapter! Hehe. Sorry it took so long to get it out to you
guys. Its been done for a while but I just haven't been there yet to get
it posted. Its scheduling time here at college and that's a rough time of
the year. Anyway, there is a section in this chapter where I describe
Aragorn's wounds - I hope it isn't to graphic for anyone! Thanks to Jay
again for a great job betaing. Thank you so much! Tell me what ya'll
think!
Annakas - Better that you did not find the story until now because now the update is fast and coming! Here we go, Aragorn will have his arm addressed in this chapter, so read on! Thanks for the review!
Estelcontar - Thanks again for your encouraging words. I am glad to have made Cressen a boy and hopefully in the upcoming chapter we will see more of how they are close and a little bit of their past, perhaps Legolas will receive more of an insight into Aragorn.
Waterfall - Thanks for the glowing review. I really like to pay attention to detail as much as possible. I do not have a website off hand, but I will try to find one for you!
Valin - You are sweet to commend my writing. So here is another chapter for you! Hope you enjoy.
Lasse-Lanta - Thanks for the encouragement. Yes, I did not want to make Thranduil a jerk, but I don't want him entirely likeable. My impression of him is a good father with a good heart, but protective of his kingdom and distrustful of men. Hopefully it comes across that way!
Enigma Jade and Carrie - Thanks for your reviews! I hope this chapter meets your expectations!
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Aragorn stood completely still as Thranduil looked him over. The old elf made Aragorn nearly as nervous as Elrond did. It was a different sort of nervousness, but Aragorn still felt uneasy. He knew well that King Thranduil was unhappy to see him and it made him even more uneasy that Legolas apparently agreed with his father. Thranduil had always been reluctant when it came to dealings with the likes of men. Thranduil and Elrond had often come to blows over this, especially regarding the men that called themselves Rangers and the certain Ranger that Elrond had accepted as a foster son. Elrond trusted the Rangers, having been closely aligned with Arathorn. Thranduil distrusted them merely because they were men, and men caused problems. He had dealt with the Rangers though, mostly out of necessity. Thranduil had always, uneasily, given his trust and support to Aragorn, mainly because Elrond gave full support of the boy that had chosen exile, but would some day be King of Gondor.
Now, Aragorn stood before a quietly angry and disturbed King Thranduil, with eight of his trusted Rangers at his side. Resiran stood to Aragorn's right, gently supporting his weakening captain by holding onto his elbow gently.
"I am also in your debt, my King, for your son has also saved my life," Aragorn spoke quietly with the respect that he owed the King. Thranduil considered this for a moment and nodded, looking at his son with pride.
"Never the less, you have done a favor for my Kingdom, and I thank you."
"It was a life worth saving, my Lord. In light of that, I would ask for your leave to stay on here at Mirkwood for a short time. My men need rest."
"And Strider requires the attention of our healers," Legolas interrupted suddenly, and Aragorn nearly laughed, for the Prince had unwittingly broken the cold diplomacy that had been passing between the two stubborn creatures. Thranduil looked fairly surprised, Aragorn realized, as the elf lord began to scrutinize him as if he hadn't really looked at Aragorn yet. Aragorn suddenly felt very uncomfortable, as if Thranduil could see right through him. He opened his mouth to protest, but found he really had nothing to say. His eyes locked finally with Thranduil's and for the first time since Aragorn had met the old wizened elf, he saw what was akin to fear, or at least worry.
"Son of Elrond, I am a poor host. Your presence at times is so - very," Thranduil paused for a moment, searching for words. "It matters not. I have overlooked how gravely wounded you are. Come, I will take you to the healers." Thranduil turned, his robes swishing around him, as soft as the breeze.
"My Lord," Aragorn said quietly, his feet never moving. Aragorn locked eyes with Legolas, but continued to address the Prince's father. Legolas' face told Aragorn to back down and let the matter rest, but the Ranger had to be completely sure that his men would be safe within the borders of Mirkwood.
"Yes, Estel?" Aragorn knew well that Thranduil purposefully chose to use his childhood name.
"I need assurance that my men will be - welcomed - here."
"They will. There of course are matters we must discuss, concerning the issue of the report I received from my archers," the elf trailed off, turning once more somewhat livid eyes on Aragorn.
"Father!" Legolas jumped into the conversation like lightning before Aragorn was given any chance to respond. "That can be dealt with later, can it not? It was merely a misunderstanding, and I am fine. Strider stands before you bleeding."
"Legolas, do not worry on my behalf," Aragorn said quickly, taking a hasty step forward on suddenly shaking legs that caused him to bite back a gasp. The last thing he wanted was for there to be any division between Thranduil and Legolas, who were fairly close as father and sons tended to be, especially amongst the elves. He realized then that Thranduil had clearly not missed the fact that Aragorn had neglected to call Legolas 'Prince'.
The king paused to look at his son and then at the wayward Ranger. Aragorn saw his eyes were troubled, but seemed almost accepting that he had been unable to impress upon his youngest son the idea that the race of Men were not to be trusted or befriended. Despite Thranduil's masked concern of this issue, he none the less took Legolas' words in and was clearly willing to do as his son asked.
Once again, Aragorn felt as if he was under the very scrutinizing eye of Thranduil. The king was not to be fooled and when his eyes melted into thin slits, Aragorn knew that the elf lord had detected the slight trembling that had began to shake the young Ranger's entire frame. Aragorn could nearly feel the start of a fever that had somehow surfaced. He was surprised once again to see a shadow of fear pass over Thranduil's features.
"In my foolishness I will be responsible for the curse that plans on destroying this land if I am not more careful," Thranduil said these words quietly, glancing at Aragorn and trailing off, confusing the Ranger. The king glanced worriedly at his advisors, then back to Aragorn. "Come, Estel. Your wounds need tending. Your men will be welcomed and cared for, you have my word."
Aragorn sighed heavily and glanced at his friend. Legolas nodded encouragingly and Aragorn could not help but note that the level of concern on the elf's face had grown. Turning to look at his own men, they seemed to mirror Legolas' expression. "I thank you for that, King Thranduil," Aragorn said finally, and finding that he did not have the strength to bow, he nodded his head in thanks to Thranduil. Feeling suddenly faint, Aragorn reached out and was rewarded by finding Legolas right beside him to catch the Ranger under his good arm. Aragorn could feel his face flushing with embarrassment at his weakness. Legolas seemed not to notice, for which the young man was grateful. He suddenly felt as if he could not even hold his sword if he had need. Thranduil was watching with a real look of worry as Lancen, Cressen, and Resiran came to Legolas' aid.
"Strider?" Cressen's voice was soft with worry, as that of a small boy.
Aragorn summoned what felt like the last of his strength. It would do no good to worry and disappoint his men. "I am alright. Attend to our horses," he said to Lancen directly and then turned his tired head towards Cressen. "You stay out of trouble, and I mean that. You are not as safe here as you think you may be."
Resiran seemed to understand his lord and pulled the boys away from Aragorn. Aragorn left his men in the charge of the elven aides and let Legolas lead him behind Thranduil. The Ranger's body now trembled visibly as Aragorn felt the nauseating feel of the hot and cold waves cover him. His body seemed very angry. They reached the healing chambers in what seemed like the longest walk Aragorn had ever taken, yet he arrived there under his own power. Thranduil called for a healer, but when one arrived, he seemed to reconsider. Suddenly intent on treating the Ranger himself, Thranduil sent the healer away and told Legolas they would treat Aragorn themselves. Legolas gently helped Aragorn sit on a bed and the Ranger tried to smile bravely. It seemed as though his body's will to continue on had given out when his mind decided it was finally safe.
"What happened, Estel?" Thranduil asked quietly, his tone less severe, more of a distant uncle in demeanor now that he was no longer being watched as King of Mirkwood.
"We were attacked by wargs, father. One bit him, I believe his arm is broken," Legolas jumped in, gesturing to the limp arm. Aragorn mustered a smile at him.
"Legolas, I asked our young king here," Thranduil said with arched eyebrows. Aragorn could feel the blood rushing from his face.
"My Lord, please!" he started to protest, fear in his voice. Aragorn was continually shocked at how uneasy his future made him feel. The risk of discovery was always paramount.
"Peace, Estel. These walls are safe. Now, I must have those clothes off. It is just your arm?" Thranduil asked quietly, if not sternly.
"Just the arm," Aragorn said with a nod. Legolas frowned at him and turned to his father, despite the pleading look Aragorn gave him. The Ranger hated to be fussed over and felt foolish for his lack of care to his body.
"Father, he lies. Lord Elrond spent many pain-staking hours to place stitches on his chest and back. They were torn when the wargs leapt upon him. I am not sure how severe, yet I think they are bleeding freely."
"Ah, Estel, always trying to hide what you feel is weakness. This is not going to go easy for you. Are you prepared for the pain?" Aragorn noted that Thranduil himself did not seem prepared to look at his injuries, but the Ranger nodded. If he had to be coddled, he would be brave about it.
The elven king gently unhooked Aragorn's dirty and ripped cloak from his shoulders and then proceeded to unbutton Aragorn's shirt. The Ranger tried to keep from crying out, but he gasped in pain as the shirt pulled against his arm.
"We'll have to cut the shirt off father," Legolas said simply, pulling out one of his hunting daggers. Thranduil nodded and put his hand on Aragorn's shoulder. Legolas started to cut the cloth, and Aragorn bit his tongue as the fibers of fabric pulled free of the newly scabbing wounds. The pain reached miserable levels when Legolas went directly over the area that had been bitten. When he was done, Aragorn realized he'd been holding his breath and slowly exhaled, his body shaking. Thranduil looked worried as he visually examined the wound. Being a healer himself, Aragorn did his best to also look at what damage had been done. The warg had clearly broken the skin, resulting in all the blood. There were deep gashes where the teeth had sunk in and the broken bone was clearly visible through one of the larger gashes. Aragorn was surprised when Legolas turned away, as if the elf was tortured to see what had happened. It was no wonder he felt such pain. Dirt and grime as well as warg blood had seemingly mixed in the wound and an infection had already started to form, making the wound even more garish.
"For the love of Mandos, Estel," Thranduil said in shock. "I surely do not know how you rode all of the way here in this condition. The elf lord had turned his attention to the other point of contention, Aragorn's battered chest. Aragorn knew that the wound must shock the King. The sword stroke had started at his shoulder and went to his hip, drawing a long line. Now, the stitches had indeed been ripped in many places and blood flowed from the still healing wound. Sharp scratch marks could also be seen where the warg had wrestled on top of him.
Legolas had circled around behind Aragorn, and the ranger instinctively turned to see his friend. Legolas was frowning as he caught Aragorn's eye.
"You have also torn many on your back as well."
"This is ill. I wished we had someone of Elrond's skill here. I am not as accomplished in the healing arts, nor are any in Mirkwood as opposed to your kin in Rivendell."
"It has been worse," Aragorn tried to protest, but as he did, he moved and jarred his arm in pain. This caused him to hiss in pain.
"Estel, this will not be easy. This bone must be set and it is badly broken. I will have to handle it harshly. Then it must be stitched," Thranduil said these words quietly.
"I understand. Legolas, will you get Cressen? He has some skill in healing and he carries all of my herbs and medicines," Aragorn said this slowly. Legolas nodded and hurried out.
"Aragorn, this Cressen," Thranduil started to speak, glancing at Aragorn's broken arm.
"He meant Legolas no harm, my Lord. He was merely protecting me and he is a young boy, not easily able to ascertain the world as of yet," Aragorn felt his ire rising and turned away from Thranduil.
"Aye, I believe you, son of Elrond. Rest easy." Thranduil's words startled Aragorn, who turned back to look at him. "I am not as cold hearted as you have believed. Are you sure you can deal with this pain? I have nothing conventional here that will give you sleep."
"The pain will have to take me, my Lord."
"And so it will, Estel. And so it will."
Annakas - Better that you did not find the story until now because now the update is fast and coming! Here we go, Aragorn will have his arm addressed in this chapter, so read on! Thanks for the review!
Estelcontar - Thanks again for your encouraging words. I am glad to have made Cressen a boy and hopefully in the upcoming chapter we will see more of how they are close and a little bit of their past, perhaps Legolas will receive more of an insight into Aragorn.
Waterfall - Thanks for the glowing review. I really like to pay attention to detail as much as possible. I do not have a website off hand, but I will try to find one for you!
Valin - You are sweet to commend my writing. So here is another chapter for you! Hope you enjoy.
Lasse-Lanta - Thanks for the encouragement. Yes, I did not want to make Thranduil a jerk, but I don't want him entirely likeable. My impression of him is a good father with a good heart, but protective of his kingdom and distrustful of men. Hopefully it comes across that way!
Enigma Jade and Carrie - Thanks for your reviews! I hope this chapter meets your expectations!
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Aragorn stood completely still as Thranduil looked him over. The old elf made Aragorn nearly as nervous as Elrond did. It was a different sort of nervousness, but Aragorn still felt uneasy. He knew well that King Thranduil was unhappy to see him and it made him even more uneasy that Legolas apparently agreed with his father. Thranduil had always been reluctant when it came to dealings with the likes of men. Thranduil and Elrond had often come to blows over this, especially regarding the men that called themselves Rangers and the certain Ranger that Elrond had accepted as a foster son. Elrond trusted the Rangers, having been closely aligned with Arathorn. Thranduil distrusted them merely because they were men, and men caused problems. He had dealt with the Rangers though, mostly out of necessity. Thranduil had always, uneasily, given his trust and support to Aragorn, mainly because Elrond gave full support of the boy that had chosen exile, but would some day be King of Gondor.
Now, Aragorn stood before a quietly angry and disturbed King Thranduil, with eight of his trusted Rangers at his side. Resiran stood to Aragorn's right, gently supporting his weakening captain by holding onto his elbow gently.
"I am also in your debt, my King, for your son has also saved my life," Aragorn spoke quietly with the respect that he owed the King. Thranduil considered this for a moment and nodded, looking at his son with pride.
"Never the less, you have done a favor for my Kingdom, and I thank you."
"It was a life worth saving, my Lord. In light of that, I would ask for your leave to stay on here at Mirkwood for a short time. My men need rest."
"And Strider requires the attention of our healers," Legolas interrupted suddenly, and Aragorn nearly laughed, for the Prince had unwittingly broken the cold diplomacy that had been passing between the two stubborn creatures. Thranduil looked fairly surprised, Aragorn realized, as the elf lord began to scrutinize him as if he hadn't really looked at Aragorn yet. Aragorn suddenly felt very uncomfortable, as if Thranduil could see right through him. He opened his mouth to protest, but found he really had nothing to say. His eyes locked finally with Thranduil's and for the first time since Aragorn had met the old wizened elf, he saw what was akin to fear, or at least worry.
"Son of Elrond, I am a poor host. Your presence at times is so - very," Thranduil paused for a moment, searching for words. "It matters not. I have overlooked how gravely wounded you are. Come, I will take you to the healers." Thranduil turned, his robes swishing around him, as soft as the breeze.
"My Lord," Aragorn said quietly, his feet never moving. Aragorn locked eyes with Legolas, but continued to address the Prince's father. Legolas' face told Aragorn to back down and let the matter rest, but the Ranger had to be completely sure that his men would be safe within the borders of Mirkwood.
"Yes, Estel?" Aragorn knew well that Thranduil purposefully chose to use his childhood name.
"I need assurance that my men will be - welcomed - here."
"They will. There of course are matters we must discuss, concerning the issue of the report I received from my archers," the elf trailed off, turning once more somewhat livid eyes on Aragorn.
"Father!" Legolas jumped into the conversation like lightning before Aragorn was given any chance to respond. "That can be dealt with later, can it not? It was merely a misunderstanding, and I am fine. Strider stands before you bleeding."
"Legolas, do not worry on my behalf," Aragorn said quickly, taking a hasty step forward on suddenly shaking legs that caused him to bite back a gasp. The last thing he wanted was for there to be any division between Thranduil and Legolas, who were fairly close as father and sons tended to be, especially amongst the elves. He realized then that Thranduil had clearly not missed the fact that Aragorn had neglected to call Legolas 'Prince'.
The king paused to look at his son and then at the wayward Ranger. Aragorn saw his eyes were troubled, but seemed almost accepting that he had been unable to impress upon his youngest son the idea that the race of Men were not to be trusted or befriended. Despite Thranduil's masked concern of this issue, he none the less took Legolas' words in and was clearly willing to do as his son asked.
Once again, Aragorn felt as if he was under the very scrutinizing eye of Thranduil. The king was not to be fooled and when his eyes melted into thin slits, Aragorn knew that the elf lord had detected the slight trembling that had began to shake the young Ranger's entire frame. Aragorn could nearly feel the start of a fever that had somehow surfaced. He was surprised once again to see a shadow of fear pass over Thranduil's features.
"In my foolishness I will be responsible for the curse that plans on destroying this land if I am not more careful," Thranduil said these words quietly, glancing at Aragorn and trailing off, confusing the Ranger. The king glanced worriedly at his advisors, then back to Aragorn. "Come, Estel. Your wounds need tending. Your men will be welcomed and cared for, you have my word."
Aragorn sighed heavily and glanced at his friend. Legolas nodded encouragingly and Aragorn could not help but note that the level of concern on the elf's face had grown. Turning to look at his own men, they seemed to mirror Legolas' expression. "I thank you for that, King Thranduil," Aragorn said finally, and finding that he did not have the strength to bow, he nodded his head in thanks to Thranduil. Feeling suddenly faint, Aragorn reached out and was rewarded by finding Legolas right beside him to catch the Ranger under his good arm. Aragorn could feel his face flushing with embarrassment at his weakness. Legolas seemed not to notice, for which the young man was grateful. He suddenly felt as if he could not even hold his sword if he had need. Thranduil was watching with a real look of worry as Lancen, Cressen, and Resiran came to Legolas' aid.
"Strider?" Cressen's voice was soft with worry, as that of a small boy.
Aragorn summoned what felt like the last of his strength. It would do no good to worry and disappoint his men. "I am alright. Attend to our horses," he said to Lancen directly and then turned his tired head towards Cressen. "You stay out of trouble, and I mean that. You are not as safe here as you think you may be."
Resiran seemed to understand his lord and pulled the boys away from Aragorn. Aragorn left his men in the charge of the elven aides and let Legolas lead him behind Thranduil. The Ranger's body now trembled visibly as Aragorn felt the nauseating feel of the hot and cold waves cover him. His body seemed very angry. They reached the healing chambers in what seemed like the longest walk Aragorn had ever taken, yet he arrived there under his own power. Thranduil called for a healer, but when one arrived, he seemed to reconsider. Suddenly intent on treating the Ranger himself, Thranduil sent the healer away and told Legolas they would treat Aragorn themselves. Legolas gently helped Aragorn sit on a bed and the Ranger tried to smile bravely. It seemed as though his body's will to continue on had given out when his mind decided it was finally safe.
"What happened, Estel?" Thranduil asked quietly, his tone less severe, more of a distant uncle in demeanor now that he was no longer being watched as King of Mirkwood.
"We were attacked by wargs, father. One bit him, I believe his arm is broken," Legolas jumped in, gesturing to the limp arm. Aragorn mustered a smile at him.
"Legolas, I asked our young king here," Thranduil said with arched eyebrows. Aragorn could feel the blood rushing from his face.
"My Lord, please!" he started to protest, fear in his voice. Aragorn was continually shocked at how uneasy his future made him feel. The risk of discovery was always paramount.
"Peace, Estel. These walls are safe. Now, I must have those clothes off. It is just your arm?" Thranduil asked quietly, if not sternly.
"Just the arm," Aragorn said with a nod. Legolas frowned at him and turned to his father, despite the pleading look Aragorn gave him. The Ranger hated to be fussed over and felt foolish for his lack of care to his body.
"Father, he lies. Lord Elrond spent many pain-staking hours to place stitches on his chest and back. They were torn when the wargs leapt upon him. I am not sure how severe, yet I think they are bleeding freely."
"Ah, Estel, always trying to hide what you feel is weakness. This is not going to go easy for you. Are you prepared for the pain?" Aragorn noted that Thranduil himself did not seem prepared to look at his injuries, but the Ranger nodded. If he had to be coddled, he would be brave about it.
The elven king gently unhooked Aragorn's dirty and ripped cloak from his shoulders and then proceeded to unbutton Aragorn's shirt. The Ranger tried to keep from crying out, but he gasped in pain as the shirt pulled against his arm.
"We'll have to cut the shirt off father," Legolas said simply, pulling out one of his hunting daggers. Thranduil nodded and put his hand on Aragorn's shoulder. Legolas started to cut the cloth, and Aragorn bit his tongue as the fibers of fabric pulled free of the newly scabbing wounds. The pain reached miserable levels when Legolas went directly over the area that had been bitten. When he was done, Aragorn realized he'd been holding his breath and slowly exhaled, his body shaking. Thranduil looked worried as he visually examined the wound. Being a healer himself, Aragorn did his best to also look at what damage had been done. The warg had clearly broken the skin, resulting in all the blood. There were deep gashes where the teeth had sunk in and the broken bone was clearly visible through one of the larger gashes. Aragorn was surprised when Legolas turned away, as if the elf was tortured to see what had happened. It was no wonder he felt such pain. Dirt and grime as well as warg blood had seemingly mixed in the wound and an infection had already started to form, making the wound even more garish.
"For the love of Mandos, Estel," Thranduil said in shock. "I surely do not know how you rode all of the way here in this condition. The elf lord had turned his attention to the other point of contention, Aragorn's battered chest. Aragorn knew that the wound must shock the King. The sword stroke had started at his shoulder and went to his hip, drawing a long line. Now, the stitches had indeed been ripped in many places and blood flowed from the still healing wound. Sharp scratch marks could also be seen where the warg had wrestled on top of him.
Legolas had circled around behind Aragorn, and the ranger instinctively turned to see his friend. Legolas was frowning as he caught Aragorn's eye.
"You have also torn many on your back as well."
"This is ill. I wished we had someone of Elrond's skill here. I am not as accomplished in the healing arts, nor are any in Mirkwood as opposed to your kin in Rivendell."
"It has been worse," Aragorn tried to protest, but as he did, he moved and jarred his arm in pain. This caused him to hiss in pain.
"Estel, this will not be easy. This bone must be set and it is badly broken. I will have to handle it harshly. Then it must be stitched," Thranduil said these words quietly.
"I understand. Legolas, will you get Cressen? He has some skill in healing and he carries all of my herbs and medicines," Aragorn said this slowly. Legolas nodded and hurried out.
"Aragorn, this Cressen," Thranduil started to speak, glancing at Aragorn's broken arm.
"He meant Legolas no harm, my Lord. He was merely protecting me and he is a young boy, not easily able to ascertain the world as of yet," Aragorn felt his ire rising and turned away from Thranduil.
"Aye, I believe you, son of Elrond. Rest easy." Thranduil's words startled Aragorn, who turned back to look at him. "I am not as cold hearted as you have believed. Are you sure you can deal with this pain? I have nothing conventional here that will give you sleep."
"The pain will have to take me, my Lord."
"And so it will, Estel. And so it will."