BURIED
By: Cheryl W
Disclaimer: I don't own The Lord of the Rings or anything in conjunction with the Lord of the Rings nor am I making a profit from this story. No copyright infringement is intended.
Author's Notes: First off, I apologize. This chapter does not contain all the scenes I hoped/promised it would! When I saw that ffnet would be down two days this week, I figured I could post all I had or write more and post on the 19th when the system returned. I however, didn't feel right about making you wait so long for an update. Hope you forgive me for not getting as far with this chapter but I'm also hoping you appreciate that I decided not to make you wait more than a week for an update!
Chapter 12 ))))))))
No dreams invaded Aragorn's sleep and he opened his eyes to find sunlight filtering through his room. By the sun's position he knew it was still early in the morning but he had hoped to leave at dawn. Pushing back the covers, he sat up swiftly. His wounds protested sharply and he drew in a sharp breath and braced his arms across his torso. It would not be a pleasant ride today but he swore that he would manage it, one way or the other.
With more determination than strength, he stood, crossed the room to his bureau and proceeded to change his clothing. He caught his reflection in the mirror and his hands stilled tying up his shirt. Was the gaunt man with dirt encrusted hair and dark bags under his eyes truly him?! He had seen corpses who looked more alive. Suddenly he understood why Legolas had vehemently opposed his trip today. Valar he looked ill used.
Tentatively touching his hair with one hand, Aragorn could not keep a shiver from coursing through him. Almost frantically, he crossed to the nightstand where the bowl filled with water rested, leaned over, ignoring his wounds' complaints and promptly plunged his head into the water and began to scrub the dirt from his hair. Grabbing a cloth he soaked it and used it to soak the back of his head. Brutally he scrubbed his hair, desperate to rid himself of the dirt of the tomb. However his body would not remain ignored for long and a wave of dizziness brought on by agony forced Aragorn to abandon his actions and steady himself against the nightstand, his wet head bowed, his eyes clamped shut.
The feeling was not abating nor was the agony. In defeat Aragorn sank down onto the left side of the bed, one hand now bracing his wounds while the other messaged his temple. 'You could not best a child in the shape you are in, let alone Barion! You are fooling no one, son of Arathorn,' he sneered to himself. It was his stubborn willpower that rebuked his admission. 'So you will hide here where you do not belong? You will let Barion do as he wishes with the rangers, with your men? If you leave Barion unchallenged you will never get back the part of your soul that Barion stole when he buried you. Never.'
Knowing he could not live with that, Aragorn drew in a steadying breath, forced his arms to his side and using his hands, pushed himself to a standing position, clenching his teeth as the room swam for a moment before stilling. He would not back down now, no matter what his body threw at him. Barion may have won the fight but he had not won the battle.
Spotting his pack and his sword on the table by the balcony, Aragorn walked to the table and began taking stock of the items in his pack. He stilled as the rest of Arathorn's letters spilled onto the table.
"Aragorn," Elrond's voice startled Aragorn and he stiffened with the knowledge of who had entered his room unaware. Turning with care, he was surprised to see Elrond standing only a few feet from him. He had not even heard the elf's approach. Spying his belt draped over a chair to his left, Aragorn did not look to Elrond as he picked up the belt and began to secure it around his waist, fighting down a wince as the leather rested upon the bottom edges of his two wounds. Turning with the intention of retrieving his sword from the table, Aragorn was surprised when Elrond blocked his path.
"You can not leave," Elrond half ordered and half pleaded as he met his adopted son's eyes unflinchingly even as he saw the man's anger and distrust.
"You forget yourself. I am no longer your charge," Aragorn frigidly declared as he attempted to step around Elrond.
Knowing his son's intentions, Elrond seized onto Aragorn's arms, halting the man's escape. "You may doubt my love for you but you can not doubt my skills as a healer. You are not well enough to make such a journey! You know this as well as I do! Your brothers will see that Barion pays dearly for what he has done to you."
"No. I will be exacting that payment from Barion. Alone," Aragorn vowed with deadly purpose and tried to pull free of Elrond's grasp.
Tightening his grip upon Aragorn, Elrond jerked his son closer to him, desperate that his words would break through the barrier Aragorn had erected around himself. "If you fight Barion in your weakened state, you will lose!"
A snort of self disgust erupted from Aragorn. "You forget. I already know bitter defeat at Barion's hands."
Fear sprang to Elrond's eyes and he demanded, "Then it is death that you wish?!"
A small smile curled up Aragorn's lips even as his eyes turned opaque. "No, no I do not seek death but neither will I run from it. Nor will I run from Barion."
"You are not running 'from' him but 'to" him! Why force this confrontation now?!"
"Barion is with the rangers, with my men! Though I do not know his reasons, I know he seeks to do evil. By whatever means necessary and at whatever the cost I am required to pay, I will not let him bring harm to the rangers. That is "my" duty and I know "you" of all people understand the sacrifice of duty," Aragorn bitterly replied, his fury at his adopted father's betrayal unmasked as he viciously pulled free of Elrond's grasp.
Aragorn's words lanced into Elrond but he did not let the hurt forestall his next words. "You are letting those letters blind you Estel! Yes, I might have initially taken you into my home because of an oath of duty but your presence came to bring me such immense joy, joy that I would never allow anyone to rob me of!" Elrond's own eyes darkened with resolve. "Nor will I let Barion take you from me now!"
Aragorn, seemingly unaffected by Elrond's words, coldly denied, "Barion is not stealing me from you. I am freely walking away."
"I will not allow that either! I love you Estel!" Elrond professed throwing all caution to the wind.
"Love me? A mortal?" Aragorn challenged contemptuously, stepping closer to the elf he once called father. "And yet you hate the race of men. I find it hard to believe that you can hate the race of one you claim to love. Your passions are too contradictory to be true. One must wonder which part is false...your hatred or your love?
This new turn of Aragorn's attack caught Elrond ill prepared. "I..I do not hate your race, Aragorn."
Aragorn smirked with dark humor. "Maybe I misspoke myself. Scorn seems a more apt description. Scorn, venomously and indiscriminately. All men are judged together, no man better than the rest of the lot, all weak and faulted and fragile, doomed to die before an elf could build up a tolerance to their presence."
Pierced by Aragorn's words, at the truth that rang through them, Elrond paled but found himself unable to offer any words in his defense.
At Elrond's stunned silence, Aragorn's face turned even grimmer. A small part of Aragorn had secretly wanted the elf lord to defend himself, to deny the accusation leveled at him, but Elrond had not, could not. "Tend to your own race, elf, and leave me to tend to mine," Aragorn growled before walking past Elrond and coming again to stand at the table. Immediately he began to rifle through his pack but he could not force his eyes to stray long from his father's letters upon the table. Ruthlessly he swept Arathorn's letters to the floor. The past had brought him nothing but pain. He would not seek out its secrets again.
Elrond watched as the letters spilled across the floor, forsaken and hated. 'Arathorn we have both failed him,' he thought with anguish. Standing behind Aragorn, Elrond saw the tense set of his son's back, and he raised his hand, wanting to comfort him, to break through the wall that separated them. His trembling hand halted an instant before it would have come to rest on Aragorn's back. Elrond heard Aragorn's breath catch, the ranger in him sensing the elf's intentions.
In sick despair, Elrond slowly pulled his hand back. He could not undo this with a touch, nay, his touch could instead shatter the crystal thin connection he still had with his son. He dared not risk that, not here, not for his own selfish needs. Without a word he turned away and left the room.
Aragorn felt as if his very heart was unraveling. It was only when he heard Elrond's departure that he could draw in a breath. Weakly he leaned upon the table. Somehow he had sensed Elrond's hovering hand at his back. At the elven lord's withdrawal, relief and, though he wanted to deny it, disappointment had swept over him in equal parts. Even as his every action and word was designed to push Elrond away, Aragorn felt a part of his heart wither and die when he scored a victory in the war he waged and Elrond retreated from him. Ruthlessly Aragorn swore to not heed the inclinations of his weak heart. It was his heart that had betrayed him from the very start just as surely as Elrond had.
Straightening, Aragorn began to supply his pack in earnest for the journey ahead of him. It did not take long. As his eyes swept the room that had been his haven all the years of his childhood, he could not bear to take any reminders of the life he was leaving behind. Closing his pack and picking up his sword, he snatched his boots from the floor in the corner and walked back to the bed. Sinking down onto the bed he sat his pack and sword aside and looked menacingly at his well worn but well loved boots.
Trying for a lightness he did not feel, he mockingly said aloud to his boots, "You may be the death of me," before he took a deep breath, sat one boot upon the bed and gripped the other in both hands. Clenching his jaw, he brought his knee up, bent over and attempted to shove his foot into the boot.
No matter how much pain he had anticipated at this action it did not come close to the agony his wounds were truly exacting for his cruel treatment. Without warning he broke out into a cold sweat and his vision began to swim. Uncertain if he was about to black out or lose all he had for supper the prior night, Aragorn, unable to will the sensations away, promptly laid back upon the bed, closed his eyes and massaged his temples with his fingers, praying that the feeling would pass with time.
A moment later he was startled as a hand covered his eyes and another hand pressed firmly upon his shoulder, keeping him immobile upon the bed.
"If you insist upon leaving today, allow me to at least make sure you do not rip out your stitches putting on your boots," requested a voice striving to not let his words emerge as a plea.
"Elrohir.." Aragorn began to protest though his tone was soft and his hand gripped the elf's wrist loosely.
Elrohir removed his hand from his brother's eyes. Instantly Aragorn's eyes swung up to meet his. "I know I can not stop you, Estel, so I will do the next best thing. I will aid you in any way you have need of me."
"I do not.." Aragorn began but Elrohir put his fingers to Aragorn's lips for a fleeting moment.
"Let me help you. Not because you asked aid of me but because I freely give it," Elrohir pleaded, praying that Aragorn would not deny him this.
Indecision warred within Aragorn as he watched apprehension and concern flicker in the eyes he knew so well. In truth he was not such a stubborn fool as the elf thought. He begrudgingly knew that getting his boots on by himself without passing out would require yet another miracle and he feared that he had claimed more than his fair share of miracles this week. "I could do it myself," Aragorn lied with a light tone but Elrohir was already smiling as he smelled victory in the air.
"Of course you could," Elrohir agreed as he released his hold on the ranger's shoulder and knelt at the man's feet. With gentle care and skill, Elrohir slid the boot unto his brother's foot and tied up the laces. In mere moments he had repeated the task with the other boot.
"You could have struggled a little more with the other boot... to ease my wounded pride," Aragorn bantered softly, forgetting for the moment that any rift lay between he and his brother.
Surprised by Aragorn's teasing, Elrohir smiled as he stood up and met his brother's eyes. "I could have...but you would have probably accused me of patronizing you."
"Which you do all the time," Aragorn countered, a smirk turning up his lips as some of the heaviness of his heart lifted. Elrohir held out his hand and for a moment Aragorn hesitated but seeing no judgment in the other's expression, he put his hand firmly in the elf's grasp and allowed Elrohir to gently pull him to a sitting position and then to his feet.
Elrohir, not relinquishing his hold upon Aragorn's hand, stood close to the man, unwilling to free his brother until he knew he was capable of keeping his footing.
With confusion clearly in his eyes, Aragorn silently looked upon Elrohir before he quietly inquired, "Why did you help me? I know you do not support me in this action."
A sad smile emerged on the elf's face. "I helped you because you are my brother, Estel. It matters not how or why you entered my life, it only matters that you did. You have always been a gift from the Valar to us, to this family, a blessing we knew not how we could have survived without. Some gifts are looked for and others are not, but I always have found the unlooked for gifts become the greatest of treasures."
Elrohir's words found their way into Aragorn's well guarded heart. "Elrohir...I.." Aragorn began, wanting to thank the elf for his words and wishing he could say something to bridge the gap between them, to return things to how they were before Barion had entered his life. But the words would not come. He could not forget all he had learned, even though he desperately wanted to. Too much stood between them now to ignore.
Hope died in Elrohir as he saw Aragorn once again close off his emotions. For an instant, for a blinking of an eye, Elrohir had thought he had broken through to Aragorn, that his brother would accept him back into his heart. Swallowing hard and giving a nod of his head in understanding, Elrohir reluctantly released Aragorn's hand and stepped back a few paces. "Your horse is ready for you," he announced and he felt some small satisfaction at the utter look of surprise that flashed across his brother's features. Pulling a vial from his pocket, he held it out to Aragorn. "For the pain.." Aragorn opened his mouth but Elrohir gave a small smile and cut him off. "No, it will not make you sleep, Estel, I swear it." With a nod of thanks, Aragorn took the vial from Elrohir's hand. "Eat something before you depart. It will be the last good meal you get in a long while for I know how poorly you rangers cook," he laced his command with a tease. Aragorn smirked but did not dispute his words. Then without trying to dissuade Aragorn from his path, Elrohir gave his youngest brother a forced smile and left Aragorn alone in his room.
With sad regret, Aragorn watched Elrohir walk away from him. Shutting off his emotions, he picked up his sword from the bed and slid it into the scabbard looped into his belt. Knowing his wounds would protest, he abandoned his usual practice of wearing his pack slung across his chest and placed it instead over his left shoulder. A surge of confidence zinged through him with the feel of the sword resting against his side, of the leather hilt clasped in his hand, of the smell of the leather of his pack and the herbs he toted around in it. Once again he was the ranger, ready to do battle against all evil that dared to walk upon this Middle Earth, willing, if necessary, to sacrifice his life to vanquish such foes and protect the innocent.
Many years ago he had forsook the mantle of his destiny and had chosen the life of the rangers. The rangers had allowed him a place among them, a place he needed to earn but a place that garnered him their respect as equals. Then they had given him the high honor of their unflagging allegiance as he was proclaimed their chieftain. In truth, he owed the Dunedain his life. He would not let Barion bring harm to them, not as some revenge for his father's actions, whatever those actions had been, good or evil. Middle Earth had already been forced to pay an unholy price for the failings of one of his family, he would not let his brothers in arms pay a personal price because they dared to ally themselves with the men of his bloodline.
With his mind focused upon that goal, Aragorn suppressed his body's pain, took a small drink from the vial Elrohir had given him, set his shoulders and walked from the room, forcing himself to not turn around for a final look upon the room of his childhood. Determinedly he maneuvered down the stairs with his hand clutched tightly upon the railing and his steps measured. Anxiety hummed within him as he feared a final confrontation with Legolas or his elven family. Doing as Elrohir bid him, he stopped into the kitchen and was surprised to see an assortment of food sitting out on the table, an empty plate with silverware waiting for him as well as a still steaming cup of coffee.
Aragorn could not help shaking his head in disbelief as a smile turned up his lips. He did not need to "see" Elrohir or Elladan to feel their presence. Realizing that he was hungry and to refuse the food would not only be prideful but foolish, Aragorn claimed a seat before the table and proceeded to dine upon the provided buffet. Sooner than he thought possible his hunger was sated, though he knew he had eaten little.
Swallowing the last of the coffee he came to his feet, somewhat surprised that, unlike so many times prior, a pack of food did not sit upon the table as provisions for his trip. Trying not to feel hurt that they had made no such consideration for him this time, regardless of whether he would have welcomed such mothering or not, he walked from the kitchen. He could not stop his eye from greedily taking in every detail of the rooms he walked through as he made his way to the front door. Silently he cursed himself. His goal was to forget Rivendell once he rode out of the front gate, not to ensure it was an indelible vision in his mind. Forcing his concentration to his departure, he felt every step toward the front door that was unmet by a familiar elven appearance was a blessing of the Valar.
But as he walked out the door and turned the corner, he suddenly knew his grace with the Valar had worn out. Elladan, Elrohir and Legolas stood in front of the stables, their horses at their sides. "No," Aragorn growled stalking forward, noticing that his own horse stood beside Elladan's mare.
Stepping forward, Elladan met his brother half way. "We are going with you, Estel," he announced as if the matter was not up for discussion, had never been up for discussion.
"And I say that you are not," Aragorn lowly disagreed.
Elladan's voice softened, "I will not let you do this alone, brother. I can not. If you refuse our company we will simply follow your trail for you have not the stamina to outride us this day."
Frustration and anger and acceptance converged on Aragorn. He knew in this he could not win for Elladan spoke the truth. Even if he slipped past them now, he would never be able to lose them upon the trail, not as injured as he was. Taking a step forward, he came face to face with Elladan. "Tag along if you wish but know this," his voice dropped to a deadly hiss as his eyes flickered to include Elrohir and Legolas before settling back upon Elladan, "Barion's fate is mine to decide. If you seek to thwart me in this, there will never be any peace between us. Not ever."
Aragorn had meant his words as a threat to put fear into his elven brothers' hearts and into his friend's heart. Instead it had wrought a different emotion from the elves. Hope. His words had sparked hope within them that all their chances for a restored peace between themselves and Aragorn were not gone. Threatened but not gone, not yet, not if they acquiesced to his newest request.
"As you wish," Elladan agreed, greedily seizing unto the thin strand that still bound him to Aragorn, regardless if his words were a lie.
Aragorn's eyes narrowed at his brother's easy capitulation. "You are bound to your word, Elladan," he stressed.
"I know the oath I have spoken," Elladan replied, internally focusing upon the oath he had made many years ago to protect the mortal who had somehow come to be a brother to him.
Seeing the unwavering look of determination upon Elladan's face, Aragorn could do nothing but accept the elf's oath. Looking to Elrohir he sought out the same agreement from him. With a sigh of reluctance, Elrohir nodded his head, but his eyes were dark with emotions Aragorn usually did not see reflected in this particular brother's eyes. Reluctantly, Aragorn's eyes swung to Legolas, fearing to see the anger and hurt he felt certain would be in the other's eyes.
Fighting down a wince, Aragorn steadily met the blue eyes of the one who he believed knew his soul better than all others. To his surprise and relief, no anger sparked in the other's gaze but the hurt he clearly saw made up for the other emotion's absence.
Legolas's quiet voice reached him, "You know I will not make that oath, for it could well turn into a lie."
Elladan and Elrohir could not totally suppress their respective groans of disbelief and slight disagreement with Legolas' honesty. Had Mirkwood elves been taught nothing about white lies and their acceptable uses?!?
His attention focused wholly upon his friend, Legolas continued, "I have never stood by and let harm come to you, do not presume that I will do so now. No matter what punishment you may unleash upon me for my interference."
Knowing that any further orders for Legolas to remain behind would be futile, Aragorn clarified, his voice as quiet as Legolas' had been. "If you interfere, you will forfeit our friendship, that I promise you."
"That is a sacrifice I am willing to make to save your life," Legolas solemnly replied, unwilling to put a lie between him and Aragorn, even a white one.
Silently Elrohir and Elladan watched the features of Aragorn and Legolas, fearing the outcome to this confrontation between the friends. Then they saw acceptance made with ill grace tighten Aragorn's features.
Backed into a corner, Aragorn could see no machinations would sway this friend. Without further words, Aragorn walked to his horse, which true to Elrohir's word, was saddled and already bore a bedroll. Aragorn's ranger coat also lay across the horse's back. Aragorn's hand touched a bag tied to his saddle and he had to fight down a small smile. His brothers had indeed packed him provisions for his trip, a lot of provisions by the feel of the bag. For all the things in the world that had changed, it did his heart some good to know that not all things had changed.
When he turned slightly to look at the elves that surrounded him, he was surprised to see Elladan standing closely at his side.
"I'll help you mount," Elladan stated his tone leaving no room for argument as he bent over and laced his hands together.
"I can manage without aid," Aragorn returned firmly and began to back the horse away from Elladan.
Elladan's hand snatched unto Aragorn's, stopping the motion of the man and the horse. His quick temper finally loosened, Elladan growled, "Accept my help or I swear you'll be lying across the saddle of your horse."
Aragorn's eyes darkened at the memories Elladan's words sparked. With a cold sardonic tone, Aragorn challenged, "Barion already treated me to the pleasure of that experience, Elladan. You will have to be more original with your threats."
Elladan paled at his brother's words. "Estel...I didn't mean it...I would never..."
"Never is a long time for an elf," Aragorn countered lowly.
"Please let me help you," Elladan softly asked. "Do I ask so much from you to trust me in this small matter?"
"Trust is no small matter," Aragorn quietly said.
"True but it is earned not by leaps and bounds but by the smallest of steps," Elladan said, desperately needing his brother to take one of those steps now. "If I have lost your trust, allow me to earn it back."
Aragorn could not remain unaffected by his eldest brother's pleas. Always it was he who had strived to earn the trust of his elven family. To know that they valued his trust as well...it was a revelation to him. In response, he lightly sallied, "You don't need to put your hands so low, I can lift my foot off the ground, Elladan."
A laugh broke from Elladan, not only at his brother's words but with joy that Aragorn was starting to let him back into his heart, even ever so marginally. Bending over, he once again laced his hands together but regardless of Aragorn's words, his hands hovered only slightly above the ground.
With a long suffering sigh, Aragorn put his foot into his brother's hands and before he knew it, he was propelled upward and gently landed into the saddle as if he weighed no more than he had as a boy of ten. Sending a look of reprimand down to Elladan, Aragorn settled comfortably into the saddle, well as comfortably as he could with two sword wounds carved in his torso.
Ignoring his little brother's look, Elladan swung up into his own saddle and watched as Elrohir and Legolas did the same. He met Elrohir's eyes and a question passed between them and both their eyes looked toward the path that lead from the main house, a path that was painfully unoccupied.
Aragorn put his horse into motion. Of their own accord, his eyes tracked to the front door of the Last Homely House. He found he had to swallow hard as he saw that no one stood in the doorway biding him farewell this time or sending up a prayer to the Valar to protect his son from all dangers. Tightening his hold upon the reigns, Aragorn fought down the temptation clawing at his heart. He would not seek out Elrond, he would not beg the elf to say something to dislodge the pain in his heart, he would not cling to the elf like a child, terrified of their parting. No, he would leave the elf in peace as it seemed he wished. The time for the hope of reconciliation was over.
The twins also looked expectantly to the front door. When Aragorn sent his horse turning toward the gates without a backward glance to his childhood home, Elladan and Elrohir exchanged glances of confusion and sadness before following their youngest brother from Rivendell. Legolas trailed behind the threesome, feeling alone and useless but he gave no thought of abandoning his resolve to accompany Aragorn. The man was his best friend and would forever remain so, regardless if Aragorn ever again reciprocated those sentiments. And so it was with silence and solemn countenances that the foursome departed Rivendell.
))))))))))))))
TBC
)))))))))))
Again I apologize that we didn't get to the part where Aragorn learns about Barion's grievance with Arathron or the scene where Aragorn tells his family what truly happened between him and Barion. As I said at the start of this chapter, I intended to cover all that this chapter but then it was taking me more time to write than I expected and then I saw ffnet was going down for 2 days so I thought I'll not make you wait so long for an update. Hopefully you'll forgive me for dragging this story out a little longer than I anticipated. My muse is so demanding! Once it gives me an idea for a scene it doesn't let me abandon it! But I promise, we'll have all those juicy conversations next chapter! Thanks for your understanding!
Replies to Reviews: )
Marbienl: Sorry I posted 2 chapters while you were gone but I thought that might be a nice treat for you! But I truly missed your reviews and was thrilled to get your thoughts on chapter 10 and 11! I love when you tell me the sentences you like! You are so right about only true friends "dare to tell each other their point of view and dare to disagree." However, I think the words still sting sometimes...just ask Aragorn and Legolas. Glad you like that Aragorn wants to, as you say "get right back on the horse" and finish Barion himself. I agree with your advice to him, forget honor and fight dirty! But you never know with men and their pride what lengths they'll go to in order to retain their honor. Glad you found it humorous when Legolas forced Aragorn to drink the cold tea. I think the human deserved that! I like the idea of Legolas' fading...hmmmm...can I work that into this story...I'm thinking, I'm thinking! And you were right, Elrond had no luck "talking" Estel into staying put but at least he gave it a shot. Well, I know you had certain things you wanted/expected to see in this chapter and I'm sorry to disappoint you but like I said, time, my muse and ffnet was against me on granting you your wish. I'll try to have next chapter out on the 19th after ffnet has all their bugs worked out. Thanks again for your wonderful reviews and suggestions!
Moonfire1: Yes, curse Aragorn's stubbornness and thank the Valar for that same stubbornness in the elves! Oh there will definitely be a stockpile of apologies when this story's wrapping up!! Thank you so much for your compliments and your loyalty to me and my little angsty story!!!
Eternal Rose: Hi friend! Thanks so much for your reviews on 10 and 11!! I'm honored that you like Renen enough to use him in your story!! I know he'll be in good hands with you so I'm not worried. (uh...you believe in happy endings, right?) So Chapter 11 took you for a loop?! (I love that of course.) I really appreciate that you liked that Aragorn did not capitulate to Legolas' pleas and therefore thought I was keeping things more in character!!!!! It's great that you want to hear my take on Halbarad. I'm looking forward to writing him because, since like you noted, his character is not really fleshed out in the books, and therefore I have pretty free reign to make him anyway I wish! Can't wait to hear what you think of how I write him. Hey, if you invent the "review spellchecker" it would sell like hotcakes! And you've stumbled onto one of my greatest struggles...those darn word tenses! In school I always had teachers correcting my tenses! Have you got any suggestions on how I can catch these little devils? Well, gotta go but thanks so much for your compliments and grammar suggestions! Keep them both coming!
Lenneth: Thank you so much for your wonderful compliment on last chapter!!! I'm overwhelmed by your words and your trust! Now you have me a little anxious that I won't keep up the standards you've set for me! And I was totally touched that you are considering this to be your favorite story!!! I hope that when the story is all done you still like it as much as you do at this moment! Looking forward to your next review!
Someone Reading: Thanks for another fantastic review that I so enjoy reading!! Glad you realized that Legolas had to make the decision he did. Yes, Aragorn is being foolish and stubborn but I'm glad you realize he's hurting! And you were right, none of the elves could convince that stubborn human to abandon his plan to head for the rangers. Waiting impatiently for your next review!
sielge: I can't thank you enough for putting some of my stories on your favorite lists!! Especially touched that you liked Bank of Brothers that well! Hope you liked this chapter as well!
Tychen: Well, I don't know if this chapter allowed you to smile but at least there were some lighter moments in it. I know I promised you angst but this story has turned into one big angst fest! Legolas should have listened to your warning about Aragorn's reaction but alas, he didn't and now Aragorn feel's betrayed and Legolas is feeling very alone as you predicted. If Legolas is smart he will take your advice last chapter and continued to "follow his heart". Thanks so much for your wonderful thoughts!
Grumpy: Thank you so much for thinking this story is "getting better and better"!! That's a wonderful compliment! I agree, Aragorn's thinking is off but like you said, he's wounded in more than one way. A naked Aragorn...I really liked that image!! Hope to hear from you soon!
Luinthien: Chapter 11 was "heartbreaking"?! Thanks!! And I think you're right, Aragorn's going to channel all his pain into one heck of a fight against Barion. But will it be enough, injured as he is? We will both have to just have to wait and see! (me too since I haven't written that fight yet! I know, bad author!) Thanks so much for your wonderful words and I hope you continue to enjoy this story and give me your thoughts!
Tailspin: Men! I agree that some of Aragorn's problems arise because of his male ego but like you, I know he's hurting too. (Sorry but Aragorn doesn't have the excuse of "the drugs made me do it") Yes, poor Legolas took the brunt of Aragorn's wrath last chapter and Elrond got a good portion of it this chapter! He's got to be soon running out of steam, right?! Just like you guessed, Legolas is going along with Aragorn in hopes of protecting his friend, regardless of their present disagreement. And your insight into how people react to tough times in their life really is how I've seen things happen too. BTW your little fairy is working because I go to bed and wake up with story ideas running through my head! Now only if the fairy could find me more time to write down all my you send me a typing fairy too? Thanks so much for your wonderful review!
Viggomaniac: First thing: I love your name!!! Thank you so much for your wonderful words! I'm glad you are feeling sorry for all the characters! I personally think they all deserve a LONG vacation...they have stated a preference to get as far away from me as possible. (What did I do?!?!) As for ffnet, I definitely have noticed some glitches but I'll gladly bear with them...that's the problem with being an addict...you're so glad when you can get a fix you forget to tell your supplier off! Thanks for reviewing and I hope to hear from you again!
Koriaena: Yup, it's gonna be a LONG journey! And I thought some of "my" family vacations were bad!?!?! Thanks for reviewing!
Athelassa: Yes, Aragorn is distressed and I think pushing everyone away is his way to try to save himself more pain. But he's only piled more pain onto his heart by taking that path! Glad you liked reading Legolas' reaction to seeing Aragorn's wounds...I just love writing that kind of sap! You are right that Elrond could not hold back Aragorn or he would have "destroyed the last bit of trust Aragorn still has". So how did I do with the scenes with Aragorn's departure? Love to hear what you thought!
Nefhiriel: I'm sorry that I'm not writing Aragorn as you see him. I have wished many times that Tolkien had written more about Aragorn in his other tales so that I could truly get a handle on the character. Without the strong presence of the original author's guidance, I've taken my own liberties with the Aragorn character which you have every right to disagree with because, after all, it's only how I decided to write him, not how he was meant to be. But I do have to say one thing in my defense, I'm discovered that in this life you don't know what will happen to you the next second nor how you will react. Therefore it can be quite a daunting task to determine how someone else will react to tough times in their life. Again, this is my perception of how Aragorn would deal with the events of this story and I freely admit, I love writing arguments and creating angst. So if you take all those ingredients and mix them together do you get a true reaction? Probably not but it sure was fun writing! Sorry it's not so enjoyable to read. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and I hope some of the rest of the story comes off more true to your version of Aragorn than it did this last chapter.
Victoria: Aragorn has begged me to read his statement to you: "The opinions and portrayal of me in this story do not reflect my own opinions nor does it show a true portrayal of me. I would never act like a "small bratty child." OK that finished, here are my apologies for making you hate my portrayal of Aragorn. In the ranger's defense, he's got a lot on his plate already, what with a murdered father, adopted by a superior race, loving a woman who will die if she loves him back and having to save the world and now Barion shows up shoveling what he does. I think that's enough to make anyone act a little crazy. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with me and for complimenting my writing!
No Big Deal: A great big hug goes out to you for saying you were "glad to see Aragorn distance himself from Legolas'!! I agree with you, that Aragorn can come off pretty weak and needy in other stories and I don't enjoy him shown in that light. He's the savior of Middle Earth for pete sake! He's no weakling hiding behind the elves! Glad you like my portrayal of Elrond. I have issues with him in the movies but I love in the books where it states he loves Aragorn like a son. I like to feed off the positive, not the negative. So how did I do with the Estel/twins interaction? Where you glad it was Elrohir who helped Estel get his boots on and Elladan who aided Aragorn onto his horse?
Elvingirl3737: I too pity Legolas but of course I "always" side with Aragorn (even when he's being the biggest fool in middle earth...ah love is so blind). I understand your anger with Aragorn and I hope he can redeem himself in your eyes as the story progresses. Thanks so much for your compliments and about the happy ending...I think my motto should be "It ain't over 'till everyone's happy." Leastwise that's how I write my stories. Life itself is too darn sad as it is. Can't wait to hear who you sided with this chapter!
Alariel: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I was really worried that all my readers would be sick of the "boring" angst chapters but reviews like yours tell me that I've still got your attention. I know I listed this as having some action and we will get back to that but I always feel better writing emotions. I was pleased to hear from you and I hope you drop me another review sometime!
Elven Kitten: Whew! I thought Aragorn had lost your love forever to Legolas! Glad to see you're a loyal one! Thanks for reviewing and still loving Aragorn!
Joslin: So who is it that you don't want me to harm dreadfully? Legolas or Aragorn? And would that be mental pain or physical pain you want them to be spared? I have to be clear on all this to see if I'll meet any of your demands. And yes, Legolas is at an all time low right now. Thanks for your review!
)))))))
Thanks for everyone who read this chapter and a special thank you to those who review! Hope to post on the 19th when ffnet is back up and running!
Cheryl W.
By: Cheryl W
Disclaimer: I don't own The Lord of the Rings or anything in conjunction with the Lord of the Rings nor am I making a profit from this story. No copyright infringement is intended.
Author's Notes: First off, I apologize. This chapter does not contain all the scenes I hoped/promised it would! When I saw that ffnet would be down two days this week, I figured I could post all I had or write more and post on the 19th when the system returned. I however, didn't feel right about making you wait so long for an update. Hope you forgive me for not getting as far with this chapter but I'm also hoping you appreciate that I decided not to make you wait more than a week for an update!
Chapter 12 ))))))))
No dreams invaded Aragorn's sleep and he opened his eyes to find sunlight filtering through his room. By the sun's position he knew it was still early in the morning but he had hoped to leave at dawn. Pushing back the covers, he sat up swiftly. His wounds protested sharply and he drew in a sharp breath and braced his arms across his torso. It would not be a pleasant ride today but he swore that he would manage it, one way or the other.
With more determination than strength, he stood, crossed the room to his bureau and proceeded to change his clothing. He caught his reflection in the mirror and his hands stilled tying up his shirt. Was the gaunt man with dirt encrusted hair and dark bags under his eyes truly him?! He had seen corpses who looked more alive. Suddenly he understood why Legolas had vehemently opposed his trip today. Valar he looked ill used.
Tentatively touching his hair with one hand, Aragorn could not keep a shiver from coursing through him. Almost frantically, he crossed to the nightstand where the bowl filled with water rested, leaned over, ignoring his wounds' complaints and promptly plunged his head into the water and began to scrub the dirt from his hair. Grabbing a cloth he soaked it and used it to soak the back of his head. Brutally he scrubbed his hair, desperate to rid himself of the dirt of the tomb. However his body would not remain ignored for long and a wave of dizziness brought on by agony forced Aragorn to abandon his actions and steady himself against the nightstand, his wet head bowed, his eyes clamped shut.
The feeling was not abating nor was the agony. In defeat Aragorn sank down onto the left side of the bed, one hand now bracing his wounds while the other messaged his temple. 'You could not best a child in the shape you are in, let alone Barion! You are fooling no one, son of Arathorn,' he sneered to himself. It was his stubborn willpower that rebuked his admission. 'So you will hide here where you do not belong? You will let Barion do as he wishes with the rangers, with your men? If you leave Barion unchallenged you will never get back the part of your soul that Barion stole when he buried you. Never.'
Knowing he could not live with that, Aragorn drew in a steadying breath, forced his arms to his side and using his hands, pushed himself to a standing position, clenching his teeth as the room swam for a moment before stilling. He would not back down now, no matter what his body threw at him. Barion may have won the fight but he had not won the battle.
Spotting his pack and his sword on the table by the balcony, Aragorn walked to the table and began taking stock of the items in his pack. He stilled as the rest of Arathorn's letters spilled onto the table.
"Aragorn," Elrond's voice startled Aragorn and he stiffened with the knowledge of who had entered his room unaware. Turning with care, he was surprised to see Elrond standing only a few feet from him. He had not even heard the elf's approach. Spying his belt draped over a chair to his left, Aragorn did not look to Elrond as he picked up the belt and began to secure it around his waist, fighting down a wince as the leather rested upon the bottom edges of his two wounds. Turning with the intention of retrieving his sword from the table, Aragorn was surprised when Elrond blocked his path.
"You can not leave," Elrond half ordered and half pleaded as he met his adopted son's eyes unflinchingly even as he saw the man's anger and distrust.
"You forget yourself. I am no longer your charge," Aragorn frigidly declared as he attempted to step around Elrond.
Knowing his son's intentions, Elrond seized onto Aragorn's arms, halting the man's escape. "You may doubt my love for you but you can not doubt my skills as a healer. You are not well enough to make such a journey! You know this as well as I do! Your brothers will see that Barion pays dearly for what he has done to you."
"No. I will be exacting that payment from Barion. Alone," Aragorn vowed with deadly purpose and tried to pull free of Elrond's grasp.
Tightening his grip upon Aragorn, Elrond jerked his son closer to him, desperate that his words would break through the barrier Aragorn had erected around himself. "If you fight Barion in your weakened state, you will lose!"
A snort of self disgust erupted from Aragorn. "You forget. I already know bitter defeat at Barion's hands."
Fear sprang to Elrond's eyes and he demanded, "Then it is death that you wish?!"
A small smile curled up Aragorn's lips even as his eyes turned opaque. "No, no I do not seek death but neither will I run from it. Nor will I run from Barion."
"You are not running 'from' him but 'to" him! Why force this confrontation now?!"
"Barion is with the rangers, with my men! Though I do not know his reasons, I know he seeks to do evil. By whatever means necessary and at whatever the cost I am required to pay, I will not let him bring harm to the rangers. That is "my" duty and I know "you" of all people understand the sacrifice of duty," Aragorn bitterly replied, his fury at his adopted father's betrayal unmasked as he viciously pulled free of Elrond's grasp.
Aragorn's words lanced into Elrond but he did not let the hurt forestall his next words. "You are letting those letters blind you Estel! Yes, I might have initially taken you into my home because of an oath of duty but your presence came to bring me such immense joy, joy that I would never allow anyone to rob me of!" Elrond's own eyes darkened with resolve. "Nor will I let Barion take you from me now!"
Aragorn, seemingly unaffected by Elrond's words, coldly denied, "Barion is not stealing me from you. I am freely walking away."
"I will not allow that either! I love you Estel!" Elrond professed throwing all caution to the wind.
"Love me? A mortal?" Aragorn challenged contemptuously, stepping closer to the elf he once called father. "And yet you hate the race of men. I find it hard to believe that you can hate the race of one you claim to love. Your passions are too contradictory to be true. One must wonder which part is false...your hatred or your love?
This new turn of Aragorn's attack caught Elrond ill prepared. "I..I do not hate your race, Aragorn."
Aragorn smirked with dark humor. "Maybe I misspoke myself. Scorn seems a more apt description. Scorn, venomously and indiscriminately. All men are judged together, no man better than the rest of the lot, all weak and faulted and fragile, doomed to die before an elf could build up a tolerance to their presence."
Pierced by Aragorn's words, at the truth that rang through them, Elrond paled but found himself unable to offer any words in his defense.
At Elrond's stunned silence, Aragorn's face turned even grimmer. A small part of Aragorn had secretly wanted the elf lord to defend himself, to deny the accusation leveled at him, but Elrond had not, could not. "Tend to your own race, elf, and leave me to tend to mine," Aragorn growled before walking past Elrond and coming again to stand at the table. Immediately he began to rifle through his pack but he could not force his eyes to stray long from his father's letters upon the table. Ruthlessly he swept Arathorn's letters to the floor. The past had brought him nothing but pain. He would not seek out its secrets again.
Elrond watched as the letters spilled across the floor, forsaken and hated. 'Arathorn we have both failed him,' he thought with anguish. Standing behind Aragorn, Elrond saw the tense set of his son's back, and he raised his hand, wanting to comfort him, to break through the wall that separated them. His trembling hand halted an instant before it would have come to rest on Aragorn's back. Elrond heard Aragorn's breath catch, the ranger in him sensing the elf's intentions.
In sick despair, Elrond slowly pulled his hand back. He could not undo this with a touch, nay, his touch could instead shatter the crystal thin connection he still had with his son. He dared not risk that, not here, not for his own selfish needs. Without a word he turned away and left the room.
Aragorn felt as if his very heart was unraveling. It was only when he heard Elrond's departure that he could draw in a breath. Weakly he leaned upon the table. Somehow he had sensed Elrond's hovering hand at his back. At the elven lord's withdrawal, relief and, though he wanted to deny it, disappointment had swept over him in equal parts. Even as his every action and word was designed to push Elrond away, Aragorn felt a part of his heart wither and die when he scored a victory in the war he waged and Elrond retreated from him. Ruthlessly Aragorn swore to not heed the inclinations of his weak heart. It was his heart that had betrayed him from the very start just as surely as Elrond had.
Straightening, Aragorn began to supply his pack in earnest for the journey ahead of him. It did not take long. As his eyes swept the room that had been his haven all the years of his childhood, he could not bear to take any reminders of the life he was leaving behind. Closing his pack and picking up his sword, he snatched his boots from the floor in the corner and walked back to the bed. Sinking down onto the bed he sat his pack and sword aside and looked menacingly at his well worn but well loved boots.
Trying for a lightness he did not feel, he mockingly said aloud to his boots, "You may be the death of me," before he took a deep breath, sat one boot upon the bed and gripped the other in both hands. Clenching his jaw, he brought his knee up, bent over and attempted to shove his foot into the boot.
No matter how much pain he had anticipated at this action it did not come close to the agony his wounds were truly exacting for his cruel treatment. Without warning he broke out into a cold sweat and his vision began to swim. Uncertain if he was about to black out or lose all he had for supper the prior night, Aragorn, unable to will the sensations away, promptly laid back upon the bed, closed his eyes and massaged his temples with his fingers, praying that the feeling would pass with time.
A moment later he was startled as a hand covered his eyes and another hand pressed firmly upon his shoulder, keeping him immobile upon the bed.
"If you insist upon leaving today, allow me to at least make sure you do not rip out your stitches putting on your boots," requested a voice striving to not let his words emerge as a plea.
"Elrohir.." Aragorn began to protest though his tone was soft and his hand gripped the elf's wrist loosely.
Elrohir removed his hand from his brother's eyes. Instantly Aragorn's eyes swung up to meet his. "I know I can not stop you, Estel, so I will do the next best thing. I will aid you in any way you have need of me."
"I do not.." Aragorn began but Elrohir put his fingers to Aragorn's lips for a fleeting moment.
"Let me help you. Not because you asked aid of me but because I freely give it," Elrohir pleaded, praying that Aragorn would not deny him this.
Indecision warred within Aragorn as he watched apprehension and concern flicker in the eyes he knew so well. In truth he was not such a stubborn fool as the elf thought. He begrudgingly knew that getting his boots on by himself without passing out would require yet another miracle and he feared that he had claimed more than his fair share of miracles this week. "I could do it myself," Aragorn lied with a light tone but Elrohir was already smiling as he smelled victory in the air.
"Of course you could," Elrohir agreed as he released his hold on the ranger's shoulder and knelt at the man's feet. With gentle care and skill, Elrohir slid the boot unto his brother's foot and tied up the laces. In mere moments he had repeated the task with the other boot.
"You could have struggled a little more with the other boot... to ease my wounded pride," Aragorn bantered softly, forgetting for the moment that any rift lay between he and his brother.
Surprised by Aragorn's teasing, Elrohir smiled as he stood up and met his brother's eyes. "I could have...but you would have probably accused me of patronizing you."
"Which you do all the time," Aragorn countered, a smirk turning up his lips as some of the heaviness of his heart lifted. Elrohir held out his hand and for a moment Aragorn hesitated but seeing no judgment in the other's expression, he put his hand firmly in the elf's grasp and allowed Elrohir to gently pull him to a sitting position and then to his feet.
Elrohir, not relinquishing his hold upon Aragorn's hand, stood close to the man, unwilling to free his brother until he knew he was capable of keeping his footing.
With confusion clearly in his eyes, Aragorn silently looked upon Elrohir before he quietly inquired, "Why did you help me? I know you do not support me in this action."
A sad smile emerged on the elf's face. "I helped you because you are my brother, Estel. It matters not how or why you entered my life, it only matters that you did. You have always been a gift from the Valar to us, to this family, a blessing we knew not how we could have survived without. Some gifts are looked for and others are not, but I always have found the unlooked for gifts become the greatest of treasures."
Elrohir's words found their way into Aragorn's well guarded heart. "Elrohir...I.." Aragorn began, wanting to thank the elf for his words and wishing he could say something to bridge the gap between them, to return things to how they were before Barion had entered his life. But the words would not come. He could not forget all he had learned, even though he desperately wanted to. Too much stood between them now to ignore.
Hope died in Elrohir as he saw Aragorn once again close off his emotions. For an instant, for a blinking of an eye, Elrohir had thought he had broken through to Aragorn, that his brother would accept him back into his heart. Swallowing hard and giving a nod of his head in understanding, Elrohir reluctantly released Aragorn's hand and stepped back a few paces. "Your horse is ready for you," he announced and he felt some small satisfaction at the utter look of surprise that flashed across his brother's features. Pulling a vial from his pocket, he held it out to Aragorn. "For the pain.." Aragorn opened his mouth but Elrohir gave a small smile and cut him off. "No, it will not make you sleep, Estel, I swear it." With a nod of thanks, Aragorn took the vial from Elrohir's hand. "Eat something before you depart. It will be the last good meal you get in a long while for I know how poorly you rangers cook," he laced his command with a tease. Aragorn smirked but did not dispute his words. Then without trying to dissuade Aragorn from his path, Elrohir gave his youngest brother a forced smile and left Aragorn alone in his room.
With sad regret, Aragorn watched Elrohir walk away from him. Shutting off his emotions, he picked up his sword from the bed and slid it into the scabbard looped into his belt. Knowing his wounds would protest, he abandoned his usual practice of wearing his pack slung across his chest and placed it instead over his left shoulder. A surge of confidence zinged through him with the feel of the sword resting against his side, of the leather hilt clasped in his hand, of the smell of the leather of his pack and the herbs he toted around in it. Once again he was the ranger, ready to do battle against all evil that dared to walk upon this Middle Earth, willing, if necessary, to sacrifice his life to vanquish such foes and protect the innocent.
Many years ago he had forsook the mantle of his destiny and had chosen the life of the rangers. The rangers had allowed him a place among them, a place he needed to earn but a place that garnered him their respect as equals. Then they had given him the high honor of their unflagging allegiance as he was proclaimed their chieftain. In truth, he owed the Dunedain his life. He would not let Barion bring harm to them, not as some revenge for his father's actions, whatever those actions had been, good or evil. Middle Earth had already been forced to pay an unholy price for the failings of one of his family, he would not let his brothers in arms pay a personal price because they dared to ally themselves with the men of his bloodline.
With his mind focused upon that goal, Aragorn suppressed his body's pain, took a small drink from the vial Elrohir had given him, set his shoulders and walked from the room, forcing himself to not turn around for a final look upon the room of his childhood. Determinedly he maneuvered down the stairs with his hand clutched tightly upon the railing and his steps measured. Anxiety hummed within him as he feared a final confrontation with Legolas or his elven family. Doing as Elrohir bid him, he stopped into the kitchen and was surprised to see an assortment of food sitting out on the table, an empty plate with silverware waiting for him as well as a still steaming cup of coffee.
Aragorn could not help shaking his head in disbelief as a smile turned up his lips. He did not need to "see" Elrohir or Elladan to feel their presence. Realizing that he was hungry and to refuse the food would not only be prideful but foolish, Aragorn claimed a seat before the table and proceeded to dine upon the provided buffet. Sooner than he thought possible his hunger was sated, though he knew he had eaten little.
Swallowing the last of the coffee he came to his feet, somewhat surprised that, unlike so many times prior, a pack of food did not sit upon the table as provisions for his trip. Trying not to feel hurt that they had made no such consideration for him this time, regardless of whether he would have welcomed such mothering or not, he walked from the kitchen. He could not stop his eye from greedily taking in every detail of the rooms he walked through as he made his way to the front door. Silently he cursed himself. His goal was to forget Rivendell once he rode out of the front gate, not to ensure it was an indelible vision in his mind. Forcing his concentration to his departure, he felt every step toward the front door that was unmet by a familiar elven appearance was a blessing of the Valar.
But as he walked out the door and turned the corner, he suddenly knew his grace with the Valar had worn out. Elladan, Elrohir and Legolas stood in front of the stables, their horses at their sides. "No," Aragorn growled stalking forward, noticing that his own horse stood beside Elladan's mare.
Stepping forward, Elladan met his brother half way. "We are going with you, Estel," he announced as if the matter was not up for discussion, had never been up for discussion.
"And I say that you are not," Aragorn lowly disagreed.
Elladan's voice softened, "I will not let you do this alone, brother. I can not. If you refuse our company we will simply follow your trail for you have not the stamina to outride us this day."
Frustration and anger and acceptance converged on Aragorn. He knew in this he could not win for Elladan spoke the truth. Even if he slipped past them now, he would never be able to lose them upon the trail, not as injured as he was. Taking a step forward, he came face to face with Elladan. "Tag along if you wish but know this," his voice dropped to a deadly hiss as his eyes flickered to include Elrohir and Legolas before settling back upon Elladan, "Barion's fate is mine to decide. If you seek to thwart me in this, there will never be any peace between us. Not ever."
Aragorn had meant his words as a threat to put fear into his elven brothers' hearts and into his friend's heart. Instead it had wrought a different emotion from the elves. Hope. His words had sparked hope within them that all their chances for a restored peace between themselves and Aragorn were not gone. Threatened but not gone, not yet, not if they acquiesced to his newest request.
"As you wish," Elladan agreed, greedily seizing unto the thin strand that still bound him to Aragorn, regardless if his words were a lie.
Aragorn's eyes narrowed at his brother's easy capitulation. "You are bound to your word, Elladan," he stressed.
"I know the oath I have spoken," Elladan replied, internally focusing upon the oath he had made many years ago to protect the mortal who had somehow come to be a brother to him.
Seeing the unwavering look of determination upon Elladan's face, Aragorn could do nothing but accept the elf's oath. Looking to Elrohir he sought out the same agreement from him. With a sigh of reluctance, Elrohir nodded his head, but his eyes were dark with emotions Aragorn usually did not see reflected in this particular brother's eyes. Reluctantly, Aragorn's eyes swung to Legolas, fearing to see the anger and hurt he felt certain would be in the other's eyes.
Fighting down a wince, Aragorn steadily met the blue eyes of the one who he believed knew his soul better than all others. To his surprise and relief, no anger sparked in the other's gaze but the hurt he clearly saw made up for the other emotion's absence.
Legolas's quiet voice reached him, "You know I will not make that oath, for it could well turn into a lie."
Elladan and Elrohir could not totally suppress their respective groans of disbelief and slight disagreement with Legolas' honesty. Had Mirkwood elves been taught nothing about white lies and their acceptable uses?!?
His attention focused wholly upon his friend, Legolas continued, "I have never stood by and let harm come to you, do not presume that I will do so now. No matter what punishment you may unleash upon me for my interference."
Knowing that any further orders for Legolas to remain behind would be futile, Aragorn clarified, his voice as quiet as Legolas' had been. "If you interfere, you will forfeit our friendship, that I promise you."
"That is a sacrifice I am willing to make to save your life," Legolas solemnly replied, unwilling to put a lie between him and Aragorn, even a white one.
Silently Elrohir and Elladan watched the features of Aragorn and Legolas, fearing the outcome to this confrontation between the friends. Then they saw acceptance made with ill grace tighten Aragorn's features.
Backed into a corner, Aragorn could see no machinations would sway this friend. Without further words, Aragorn walked to his horse, which true to Elrohir's word, was saddled and already bore a bedroll. Aragorn's ranger coat also lay across the horse's back. Aragorn's hand touched a bag tied to his saddle and he had to fight down a small smile. His brothers had indeed packed him provisions for his trip, a lot of provisions by the feel of the bag. For all the things in the world that had changed, it did his heart some good to know that not all things had changed.
When he turned slightly to look at the elves that surrounded him, he was surprised to see Elladan standing closely at his side.
"I'll help you mount," Elladan stated his tone leaving no room for argument as he bent over and laced his hands together.
"I can manage without aid," Aragorn returned firmly and began to back the horse away from Elladan.
Elladan's hand snatched unto Aragorn's, stopping the motion of the man and the horse. His quick temper finally loosened, Elladan growled, "Accept my help or I swear you'll be lying across the saddle of your horse."
Aragorn's eyes darkened at the memories Elladan's words sparked. With a cold sardonic tone, Aragorn challenged, "Barion already treated me to the pleasure of that experience, Elladan. You will have to be more original with your threats."
Elladan paled at his brother's words. "Estel...I didn't mean it...I would never..."
"Never is a long time for an elf," Aragorn countered lowly.
"Please let me help you," Elladan softly asked. "Do I ask so much from you to trust me in this small matter?"
"Trust is no small matter," Aragorn quietly said.
"True but it is earned not by leaps and bounds but by the smallest of steps," Elladan said, desperately needing his brother to take one of those steps now. "If I have lost your trust, allow me to earn it back."
Aragorn could not remain unaffected by his eldest brother's pleas. Always it was he who had strived to earn the trust of his elven family. To know that they valued his trust as well...it was a revelation to him. In response, he lightly sallied, "You don't need to put your hands so low, I can lift my foot off the ground, Elladan."
A laugh broke from Elladan, not only at his brother's words but with joy that Aragorn was starting to let him back into his heart, even ever so marginally. Bending over, he once again laced his hands together but regardless of Aragorn's words, his hands hovered only slightly above the ground.
With a long suffering sigh, Aragorn put his foot into his brother's hands and before he knew it, he was propelled upward and gently landed into the saddle as if he weighed no more than he had as a boy of ten. Sending a look of reprimand down to Elladan, Aragorn settled comfortably into the saddle, well as comfortably as he could with two sword wounds carved in his torso.
Ignoring his little brother's look, Elladan swung up into his own saddle and watched as Elrohir and Legolas did the same. He met Elrohir's eyes and a question passed between them and both their eyes looked toward the path that lead from the main house, a path that was painfully unoccupied.
Aragorn put his horse into motion. Of their own accord, his eyes tracked to the front door of the Last Homely House. He found he had to swallow hard as he saw that no one stood in the doorway biding him farewell this time or sending up a prayer to the Valar to protect his son from all dangers. Tightening his hold upon the reigns, Aragorn fought down the temptation clawing at his heart. He would not seek out Elrond, he would not beg the elf to say something to dislodge the pain in his heart, he would not cling to the elf like a child, terrified of their parting. No, he would leave the elf in peace as it seemed he wished. The time for the hope of reconciliation was over.
The twins also looked expectantly to the front door. When Aragorn sent his horse turning toward the gates without a backward glance to his childhood home, Elladan and Elrohir exchanged glances of confusion and sadness before following their youngest brother from Rivendell. Legolas trailed behind the threesome, feeling alone and useless but he gave no thought of abandoning his resolve to accompany Aragorn. The man was his best friend and would forever remain so, regardless if Aragorn ever again reciprocated those sentiments. And so it was with silence and solemn countenances that the foursome departed Rivendell.
))))))))))))))
TBC
)))))))))))
Again I apologize that we didn't get to the part where Aragorn learns about Barion's grievance with Arathron or the scene where Aragorn tells his family what truly happened between him and Barion. As I said at the start of this chapter, I intended to cover all that this chapter but then it was taking me more time to write than I expected and then I saw ffnet was going down for 2 days so I thought I'll not make you wait so long for an update. Hopefully you'll forgive me for dragging this story out a little longer than I anticipated. My muse is so demanding! Once it gives me an idea for a scene it doesn't let me abandon it! But I promise, we'll have all those juicy conversations next chapter! Thanks for your understanding!
Replies to Reviews: )
Marbienl: Sorry I posted 2 chapters while you were gone but I thought that might be a nice treat for you! But I truly missed your reviews and was thrilled to get your thoughts on chapter 10 and 11! I love when you tell me the sentences you like! You are so right about only true friends "dare to tell each other their point of view and dare to disagree." However, I think the words still sting sometimes...just ask Aragorn and Legolas. Glad you like that Aragorn wants to, as you say "get right back on the horse" and finish Barion himself. I agree with your advice to him, forget honor and fight dirty! But you never know with men and their pride what lengths they'll go to in order to retain their honor. Glad you found it humorous when Legolas forced Aragorn to drink the cold tea. I think the human deserved that! I like the idea of Legolas' fading...hmmmm...can I work that into this story...I'm thinking, I'm thinking! And you were right, Elrond had no luck "talking" Estel into staying put but at least he gave it a shot. Well, I know you had certain things you wanted/expected to see in this chapter and I'm sorry to disappoint you but like I said, time, my muse and ffnet was against me on granting you your wish. I'll try to have next chapter out on the 19th after ffnet has all their bugs worked out. Thanks again for your wonderful reviews and suggestions!
Moonfire1: Yes, curse Aragorn's stubbornness and thank the Valar for that same stubbornness in the elves! Oh there will definitely be a stockpile of apologies when this story's wrapping up!! Thank you so much for your compliments and your loyalty to me and my little angsty story!!!
Eternal Rose: Hi friend! Thanks so much for your reviews on 10 and 11!! I'm honored that you like Renen enough to use him in your story!! I know he'll be in good hands with you so I'm not worried. (uh...you believe in happy endings, right?) So Chapter 11 took you for a loop?! (I love that of course.) I really appreciate that you liked that Aragorn did not capitulate to Legolas' pleas and therefore thought I was keeping things more in character!!!!! It's great that you want to hear my take on Halbarad. I'm looking forward to writing him because, since like you noted, his character is not really fleshed out in the books, and therefore I have pretty free reign to make him anyway I wish! Can't wait to hear what you think of how I write him. Hey, if you invent the "review spellchecker" it would sell like hotcakes! And you've stumbled onto one of my greatest struggles...those darn word tenses! In school I always had teachers correcting my tenses! Have you got any suggestions on how I can catch these little devils? Well, gotta go but thanks so much for your compliments and grammar suggestions! Keep them both coming!
Lenneth: Thank you so much for your wonderful compliment on last chapter!!! I'm overwhelmed by your words and your trust! Now you have me a little anxious that I won't keep up the standards you've set for me! And I was totally touched that you are considering this to be your favorite story!!! I hope that when the story is all done you still like it as much as you do at this moment! Looking forward to your next review!
Someone Reading: Thanks for another fantastic review that I so enjoy reading!! Glad you realized that Legolas had to make the decision he did. Yes, Aragorn is being foolish and stubborn but I'm glad you realize he's hurting! And you were right, none of the elves could convince that stubborn human to abandon his plan to head for the rangers. Waiting impatiently for your next review!
sielge: I can't thank you enough for putting some of my stories on your favorite lists!! Especially touched that you liked Bank of Brothers that well! Hope you liked this chapter as well!
Tychen: Well, I don't know if this chapter allowed you to smile but at least there were some lighter moments in it. I know I promised you angst but this story has turned into one big angst fest! Legolas should have listened to your warning about Aragorn's reaction but alas, he didn't and now Aragorn feel's betrayed and Legolas is feeling very alone as you predicted. If Legolas is smart he will take your advice last chapter and continued to "follow his heart". Thanks so much for your wonderful thoughts!
Grumpy: Thank you so much for thinking this story is "getting better and better"!! That's a wonderful compliment! I agree, Aragorn's thinking is off but like you said, he's wounded in more than one way. A naked Aragorn...I really liked that image!! Hope to hear from you soon!
Luinthien: Chapter 11 was "heartbreaking"?! Thanks!! And I think you're right, Aragorn's going to channel all his pain into one heck of a fight against Barion. But will it be enough, injured as he is? We will both have to just have to wait and see! (me too since I haven't written that fight yet! I know, bad author!) Thanks so much for your wonderful words and I hope you continue to enjoy this story and give me your thoughts!
Tailspin: Men! I agree that some of Aragorn's problems arise because of his male ego but like you, I know he's hurting too. (Sorry but Aragorn doesn't have the excuse of "the drugs made me do it") Yes, poor Legolas took the brunt of Aragorn's wrath last chapter and Elrond got a good portion of it this chapter! He's got to be soon running out of steam, right?! Just like you guessed, Legolas is going along with Aragorn in hopes of protecting his friend, regardless of their present disagreement. And your insight into how people react to tough times in their life really is how I've seen things happen too. BTW your little fairy is working because I go to bed and wake up with story ideas running through my head! Now only if the fairy could find me more time to write down all my you send me a typing fairy too? Thanks so much for your wonderful review!
Viggomaniac: First thing: I love your name!!! Thank you so much for your wonderful words! I'm glad you are feeling sorry for all the characters! I personally think they all deserve a LONG vacation...they have stated a preference to get as far away from me as possible. (What did I do?!?!) As for ffnet, I definitely have noticed some glitches but I'll gladly bear with them...that's the problem with being an addict...you're so glad when you can get a fix you forget to tell your supplier off! Thanks for reviewing and I hope to hear from you again!
Koriaena: Yup, it's gonna be a LONG journey! And I thought some of "my" family vacations were bad!?!?! Thanks for reviewing!
Athelassa: Yes, Aragorn is distressed and I think pushing everyone away is his way to try to save himself more pain. But he's only piled more pain onto his heart by taking that path! Glad you liked reading Legolas' reaction to seeing Aragorn's wounds...I just love writing that kind of sap! You are right that Elrond could not hold back Aragorn or he would have "destroyed the last bit of trust Aragorn still has". So how did I do with the scenes with Aragorn's departure? Love to hear what you thought!
Nefhiriel: I'm sorry that I'm not writing Aragorn as you see him. I have wished many times that Tolkien had written more about Aragorn in his other tales so that I could truly get a handle on the character. Without the strong presence of the original author's guidance, I've taken my own liberties with the Aragorn character which you have every right to disagree with because, after all, it's only how I decided to write him, not how he was meant to be. But I do have to say one thing in my defense, I'm discovered that in this life you don't know what will happen to you the next second nor how you will react. Therefore it can be quite a daunting task to determine how someone else will react to tough times in their life. Again, this is my perception of how Aragorn would deal with the events of this story and I freely admit, I love writing arguments and creating angst. So if you take all those ingredients and mix them together do you get a true reaction? Probably not but it sure was fun writing! Sorry it's not so enjoyable to read. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and I hope some of the rest of the story comes off more true to your version of Aragorn than it did this last chapter.
Victoria: Aragorn has begged me to read his statement to you: "The opinions and portrayal of me in this story do not reflect my own opinions nor does it show a true portrayal of me. I would never act like a "small bratty child." OK that finished, here are my apologies for making you hate my portrayal of Aragorn. In the ranger's defense, he's got a lot on his plate already, what with a murdered father, adopted by a superior race, loving a woman who will die if she loves him back and having to save the world and now Barion shows up shoveling what he does. I think that's enough to make anyone act a little crazy. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with me and for complimenting my writing!
No Big Deal: A great big hug goes out to you for saying you were "glad to see Aragorn distance himself from Legolas'!! I agree with you, that Aragorn can come off pretty weak and needy in other stories and I don't enjoy him shown in that light. He's the savior of Middle Earth for pete sake! He's no weakling hiding behind the elves! Glad you like my portrayal of Elrond. I have issues with him in the movies but I love in the books where it states he loves Aragorn like a son. I like to feed off the positive, not the negative. So how did I do with the Estel/twins interaction? Where you glad it was Elrohir who helped Estel get his boots on and Elladan who aided Aragorn onto his horse?
Elvingirl3737: I too pity Legolas but of course I "always" side with Aragorn (even when he's being the biggest fool in middle earth...ah love is so blind). I understand your anger with Aragorn and I hope he can redeem himself in your eyes as the story progresses. Thanks so much for your compliments and about the happy ending...I think my motto should be "It ain't over 'till everyone's happy." Leastwise that's how I write my stories. Life itself is too darn sad as it is. Can't wait to hear who you sided with this chapter!
Alariel: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I was really worried that all my readers would be sick of the "boring" angst chapters but reviews like yours tell me that I've still got your attention. I know I listed this as having some action and we will get back to that but I always feel better writing emotions. I was pleased to hear from you and I hope you drop me another review sometime!
Elven Kitten: Whew! I thought Aragorn had lost your love forever to Legolas! Glad to see you're a loyal one! Thanks for reviewing and still loving Aragorn!
Joslin: So who is it that you don't want me to harm dreadfully? Legolas or Aragorn? And would that be mental pain or physical pain you want them to be spared? I have to be clear on all this to see if I'll meet any of your demands. And yes, Legolas is at an all time low right now. Thanks for your review!
)))))))
Thanks for everyone who read this chapter and a special thank you to those who review! Hope to post on the 19th when ffnet is back up and running!
Cheryl W.