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: Sorry about the delay in posting! I went on vacation and didn't get a chance to write a chapter before I left. Now I'm back and with a pretty long chapter! Hope you like it!
Chapter 14 )))))))))
"Barion 'must' die," Elrond gravely declared.
"I have every intention of making him pay dearly for what he has done," Aragorn lowly promised.
Elrond's jaw clenched, his son did not understand that his words were not an exaggerated wish for revenge but a necessity. Gripping both of Aragorn's shoulders, he clarified, "Barion can 'not' be allowed to live. He bears too great a threat to you."
"What?!" Aragorn exclaimed, feeling as if his whole world no longer made sense.
Elrond's resolve did not waver but instead became more fortified. "Barion knows who you are, Aragorn! He will reveal your secret!"
Aragorn's jaw clenched, "I thought you would be pleased if someone found a way to force my destiny upon me."
"Sweet Eru, Estel!" Elrond cried, surprising his companions with the despair in his tone. "I would do all in my power to protect your secret, forever, if I could! Your future is in "your" hands and I would see it stays that way! If Sauron learns of you now...your life could be forfeit! It is not time for such things to be revealed, I know that you feel this is true as strongly as I do!"
Aragorn looked away. Curse his destiny and all the despair and pain it caused! When he met Elrond's eyes again, he was once again the controlled ranger. "And your solution to this problem is to murder Barion? Is that the elven solution when one threatens their secrets? It is no wonder that Barion thought I would murder him upon the trail when he spoke of my secret! He feared the influence you elves had upon me."
"We do not speak of merely a secret! We speak of your life, Estel! Sauron will find you and you will pray for death! I will do anything I must to protect you from that fate! Anything," Elrond passionately vowed.
Aragorn could see the truth in the eyes of the one he had called Ada. Shocked to his core, Aragorn realized that Elrond would commit murder to protect him. He gripped Elrond's shoulder, "You are not thinking clearly! Barion is not some orc to be slaughtered!" Grasping for an explanation for Elrond's uncharacteristically harsh judgment, Aragorn stilled as an unwelcome notion sprang into his heart. Quietly he demanded, "So, if necessary, you will commit murder to save the "the hope of Middle Earth"?"
Elrond put his hand to Aragorn's cheek and Aragorn was too stunned by the gentle caress to pull away. With love shining in his eyes, Elrond firmly insisted, "Not because you are the world's hope but because you are my son! I will do what I must to see no harm comes to you!"
"There are limits to what you can do to protect me! There must be limits or we will all fall into the shadow willingly," Aragorn implored, not even disputing Elrond's claim that he was his son. "Barion's fate is in my hands and in Barion's own hands..as is my own fate. The battle must wage earnestly between Barion and I. Together we will decide our respective fates. It is not for you to decide."
"Aragorn.." Elrond began to plead but Aragorn shook his head.
"You have always taught me to stand up and fight my own battles, to make my own way in this world. When will you stop condemning me for following your instructions?" sorrow lacing his words. Pulling back from Elrond's touch, Aragorn set his horse upon the path and started heading north.
Elrond bowed his head and clenched his hand. He had been so close to reclaiming his son and then, somehow, he had let him slip out of his embrace. Lifting his eyes, he saw his elven sons bestowing worried looks upon him. With a nod of his head, he sent them to follow after Legolas, who had already gained Aragorn's side. Bringing up the rear, Elrond let his thoughts sink back into the words his son had said. 'Yes, I taught Estel to fight his own battles.... but I "never" promised that I would idly stand by and see him harmed. For that is a promise I would have broken every time...like I will break it this time,' he resolutely pledged.
Legolas shot a look to the man riding at his side but seeing the cold set to Aragorn's features, he let silence reign between them. Now was not the time to press his friendship back onto the man, by force, if necessary. No, right now Aragorn needed just to know that he did not walk this path alone. 'You are not alone, mellon nin. When ever you have need of me, I will always be there for you,' Legolas silently reassured as he moved his horse closer to the ranger's mount.
The sun was past it's zenith as the five travelers entered the forests of northern Arnor, having left the sanctuary of the border of Rivendell's forest late in the morning and already crossed a vast section of open plains. Little conversation had been held as the miles were traversed, leaving each traveler entirely too much time to maul over their overwrought emotions.
With the openness of their trail across the plains, there had been no way to hold Aragorn back from taking the lead, though Elladan and Elrohir had numerous times rode to the front only to find themselves overtaken by their brother not long after. But they did not speak a word of protest, knowing the waste of breath that would be. Nor did Elrond utter one word upon the journey.
No matter where Aragorn resided in the troupe, he found that Legolas stayed loyally glued to his side. Aragorn, with a trembling hand, brushed perspiration from his forehead, squinted into the sun and fought to stay conscious against the waves of agony washing over him. He had known pain would be his constant companion on the journey but he had not judged the level of pain correctly. Not at all. Experience had shown him able to bear pain well. Agony, however, was another thing altogether.
It was Aragorn's simple act of raising his trembling hand to his sweat drenched brow that finally managed to surpass Legolas's level of endurance. This day, with heart wrenching concern, he had watched as Aragorn's face turned whiter and whiter even as sweat drenched his friend's hair and brow. Worse still, he had felt the pain emanating from the man as if it were a tangible thing. But no longer could he watch his friend suffer needlessly. Without warning, he swiftly reached over and pulled back on his friend's reins, bringing the ranger's horse to an abrupt stop.
Startled from his pain induced stupor, Aragorn shot a surprised look to Legolas.
"We will rest here," Legolas announced, nodding to a clearing to their right.
"No. If we are to reach my camp before nightfall we must press on," Aragorn refuted surprised at how weak and breathless his own voice sounded.
Fearing that the ranger would surge his horse forward, Legolas tightened his grip upon Aragorn's horse's reigns. Though his heart was heavy with worry, Legolas lightly taunted, hoping to sway the man from protesting the stop too fiercely, "You are a ranger. Surely you can find your way to your camp in the dark."
The three Rivendell elfs had halted behind Aragorn and Legolas. They watched the scene before them with trepidation, knowing that, among them, Legolas was probably the only one that could convince Aragorn to take a short rest...well, without using force.
Aragorn wanted to refute Legolas' words, to insist that they could not afford the delay, but in truth, Legolas was right, he was capable of finding the camp amid the darkest of nights if need be. This coupled with his fierce yearning to simply lie down, to not feel the gait of a horse rip pain through him, to close his eyes and shut out the world if only for a little while, sent him teetering on the edge of acquiescing to Legolas' suggestion.
When Aragorn did not reply right away, Legolas began to guide both Aragorn's mount and his own to the clearing.
"Legolas.." Aragorn started to protest, his hand covering the elven hand on his reigns but when Legolas's eyes met his own, Aragorn fell silent. By the set look on Legolas' face, Aragorn knew nothing would convince the elf to release his reins, not now that Aragorn had hesitated in his refusal. Removing his hand from Legolas', Aragorn placidly allowed the elf to lead both their horses to the outskirts of the clearing.
Swinging from his horse's back, Legolas tied both his horse and Aragorn's to the nearest tree. Beside him, Elladan, Elrohir and Elrond did like wise with their own mounts.
Accepting that he would not be allowed to ride any further, Aragorn swung his leg over his horse and slid to the ground, a graceful dismount but very subdued in comparison with his normal leap from the saddle. Even taking such caution, Aragorn's legs buckled under him. Only by his tight grip on the saddle and the support of his horse's strong body at his side did he manage to remain standing. Instantly, Elrond was at his side, reaching out to support his son but Aragorn's one word halted his actions, "Don't."
The pain of rejection bathed over Elrond's soul anew. Whatever steps he had made to reconcile with his son were not great enough to earn him the privilege aiding his son. Stumbling back a step, Elrond painfully gave his son the distance away from him he so sorely desired.
When he could rely solely upon his own strength, Aragorn leaned away from his horse and stood with only a slight tremble in his stance. However, his body was far from forgiving for the punishment Barion had inflicted on it or for the punishment Aragorn himself was now piling on it since his departure from bed. Knowing he needed some time away from the watchful eyes of the elves, Aragorn slowly began to walk into the woods.
All eyes of the elves tracked his slow departure and Elladan took a step after his brother but a strong hand latched onto his forearm. He turned to meet the eyes of Legolas.
"Please, allow me to go," Legolas softly pleaded, his eyes full of need.
Elladan smirked, "He will probably welcome your presence better than mine anyway. Go," he gently ordered.
Immediately Legolas ran quickly into the woods where Aragorn had disappeared moments prior.
Bent over, his hands braced on his legs, and his eyes clamped shut, Aragorn drew in deep breaths and willed himself not to pass out. The last thing he needed to do was to give the four elves that traveled with him the arsenal to prove how wrong he had been to leave his bed and undertake this journey. However, the ill feeling was not fading but increasing. With dread, he began to accept that he would indeed have to suffer the reprimanding "I told you so" lectures.
Unexpectedly, two arms wrapped around his waist and he was pulled against a strong body. "Let us sit down for awhile," a soft voice soothed that he knew unmistakably was Legolas's. True to the suggestion, Aragorn felt himself lowered to the ground.
When Aragorn came to rest on his knees, Legolas pulled him gently to the left and settled his friend upon his chest. Aragorn offered no protests to his friend's ministrations. "Bend your head down and breathe deeply."
Doing as he was instructed, Aragorn sank his head lower and drew in deeper breaths. He flinched as a hand lightly stroked his head but did not pull away from the contact.
In a voice raspy with pain, Aragorn quietly said, "You should not be here."
Stunned, Legolas's hand stilled and his heart broke as pain consumed him. He had thought the rift between he and Aragorn was lessening. How could he have read the signs so falsely? The answer was quick and certain: because you desperately wanted to believe it, no matter how little truth resided in it.
Legolas almost withdrew from his friend when Aragorn continued, sadly, "I do not deserve your friendship. I have proven that before but never so blatantly as I have these last two days. I know you travel with me out of loyalty but it is a loyalty you do not owe me."
Relief and joy saturated Legolas as he realized that Aragorn's friendship was within his grasp. "You have my friendship and loyalty forever, mellon nin, and you are deserving of both!"
Marginally shaking his head, Aragorn denied with sorrow and self recrimination, "No, the words I said to you...Valar, Legolas, I told you to go home...I implied that we were no longer friends."
Legolas unconsciously pulled his friend closer and softly replied, "I forgave you your words the moment they were spoken."
Aragorn's head came up in shock and his surprised eyes met Legolas'. "Why?"
A tender smile turned up Legolas's lips as warmth for his friend glittered in his eyes. "Because I knew you did not mean them, that it was your despair that led you to push me away, hoping to spare you any more pain."
Aragorn's guilt would not let him accept such forgiveness. "You can not simply forgive me. My words will stand between us.."
Shaking his head with good humor, Legolas smirked, "Do you think I will allow false words to steal away the friendship that has come to mean so much to me? Sorry, Estel but you can not rid me from your side, not with words or even with the whole army of Mordor. You must face the truth. You are stuck with me forever."
Aragorn's heart lightened. His foolishness had not cost him his best friend after all. "I would not have it any other way, mellon nin," he vowed as he put his hand on his friend's shoulder and Legolas laid his own hand upon Aragorn's shoulder and gave it a reassuring squeeze.
Their smiles soon turned to chuckles as their tension morphed into joyous relief. Changing his hold upon his friend, Legolas said, "Come, I will aid you back to the clearing so you can get the rest I intended when I called a halt to our journey."
Aragorn, looking at Legolas with a twinkle in his eyes that Legolas had missed, teased, "Here I thought we were stopping because "you" were weary."
Snorting, Legolas sarcastically agreed, "Oh, right, I forgot," reveling in the lightheartedness once again sparking between him and Aragorn.
Drawing the man's arm over his shoulder, Legolas wrapped his arm around his friend's waist and slowly aided Aragorn gently to his feet.
Dizziness struck Aragorn as he gained his feet, causing him to close his eyes again while he felt himself being pulled more securely against Legolas.
Worry overshadowed the elf's previous happiness. "Can you make it back to the clearing or should I.."
"No," Aragorn cut in with a trace of his usual humor. "No, you should "not" carry me." Taking in a steadying breath, he relegated his pain behind his barriers and opened his eyes to see Legolas' blue eyes watching him worriedly. "I can make it on my own two feet without..."
"Nay, I am not releasing you, mellon nin. Together we will make our way back to your family." Before the man could protest, the elf began to steer Aragorn back the way he had come.
It took all of Aragorn's concentration to keep his feet moving, to hold back the cry of pain that was crawling up his throat, and right the swaying world around him.
As they returned to the clearing, Legolas saw that a camp had been established which sported a fire and had a bedroll laying beside it that looked suspiciously like Aragorn's bedroll. Immediately Legolas headed for the bedroll, concerned as he found himself bearing more of Aragorn's weight with every step. Sparing only a small glance to the three other elves standing by the horses, Legolas eased Aragorn down upon the bedroll. Gently Legolas pressed Aragorn to lie down, straightened out the man's legs, grabbed the blanket that sat beside the bedroll and wrapped it around his friend.
When Aragorn reappeared being supported by Legolas, Elrond's heart clenched and his only thought was to go to his son. He had taken but one step before a hand latched onto his arm. Surprised, his eyes flew up to Elrohir's.
Gently, Elrohir advised, "He will react badly if we swarm to his side. Let Legolas get him settled before you approach."
It went against Elrond's heart but his mind knew the wisdom of his son's words. Elrohir had always been sensitive to his human brother's feelings more than any of the other elves. Trusting his son's judgment in this, Elrond nodded and watched the prince lower his son to the bedroll and cover him with the blanket. He could not help loving Legolas at that moment for being such an unequalled friend to his human son. As if his thoughts had drawn the prince's attention, Legolas looked up, met his eyes and nodded his head.
Having beckoned Elrond to Aragorn's side, Legolas turned again to Aragorn whose eyes studied him. "Your father must check your wounds, for his peace of mind as well as my own. Please allow him to do this small thing, Aragorn."
Tiredly but without rancor, Aragorn sallied back, "You ask it of me as if I had a choice," and a small smirk appeared on his too pale face.
Knowing Aragorn's words to be acceptance, Legolas smiled, stood up and met Elrond mid way across the clearing.
Elrond's eyes were focused behind Legolas to his son even as his question was for the prince, "How badly does he fare?"
"He is in a lot of pain and is weary beyond words," Legolas quietly passed along, finally drawing Elrond's worried gaze from his son to the prince. "But he will not be deterred from this journey," Legolas warned, fearing that the man's father would make a futile attempt to sway Aragorn's set mind. In relief, he watched as Elrond nodded in agreement before the elder elf walked by him and crossed to his son. Legolas could not help but turn around and watch as Aragorn's father knelt at his son's side. A moment later Legolas made his way to Elladan and Elrohir.
The twin's eyes were transfixed upon their father and brother as Legolas joined them. Tearing their looks away they focused upon their Mirkwood friend and both noted the change in Legolas.
"You have been forgiven," Elladan stated in surprise, happiness and a sliver of jealousy.
Legolas could not keep the smile from springing to his mouth, "It shows?"
Elrohir answered the prince's question, "We will have no worry about seeing in the darkness this night for your glow could lead us like it were day time."
No longer able to suppress his joy, Legolas's eyes sparkled with it. A moment later, however, the sparkle faded as he saw sorrow still clung unmercifully to Elladan and Elrohir. "Do not be dispirited. Aragorn has already returned to your safekeeping some of his heart."
Contrary to Legolas's intentions, Elladan's features darkened with regret. "It is not enough, mellon nin, not nearly enough," his eyes fixed upon his brother's prone figure. "I want it to be as it was. I want my brother back," the yearning in his voice striking pain into Legolas's heart.
Feeling his brother's pain merge with his own, Elrohir strived to cling to some comfort. Putting a hand upon Elladan's shoulder, he promised, his eyes forging into his brother's, "We will get our little brother back. We will." Slowly his eyes fell upon his father, whose very posture spoke of uncertainty and worry, "But will Ada get his son back?" he quietly wondered.
When Elrond reached his son's side, his father's heart ached to tenderly stroke his son's face and utter words of soothing comfort. Upon meeting Aragorn's wary gaze, he refrained from following his heart. Dropping to his knees he stilled his trembling hands, quieted his anguished heart and became the only persona Aragorn would not reject: Elrond the healer.
Pulling a vial from his pack, he met Aragorn's intent look. "This will ease your pain," he explained, breaking the silence that hung heavily over them with his melodious voice. Reading the refusal in his son's silver eyes, Elrond gave a small smile to the man, "Sorry to disappoint you but it is not my tea that you love so well."
At the teasing words, Aragorn could not help feeling a spark of that old reaction sputter to life in him and his mouth almost twitched into a smile. In compliance, he raised his head from the ground and reached for the vial.
Elrond slid a supporting hand behind Aragorn's head and, ignoring the man's grasping hand, put the vial to the man's lips and tipped it back slowly, allowing some of the portion to slip into the man's mouth.
Aragorn's face screwed up in displeasure and he croaked out, "I did not think it possible! That tastes even worse than your tea!"
A small chuckle emanated from Elrond. "This contains much the same ingredients as my tea. What it lacks is the herb that induces sleep, an herb that actually improves the tea's flavor."
"Talk about blessings in strange places," Aragorn countered, his face still scrunched up in distaste.
For a moment father and son looked at one another in silence, feeling as if the distance between them was not so great after all. Terrified of jeopardizing the progress with his son, Elrond tentatively asked, "May I check your stitches?"
It was on the tip of Aragorn's tongue to boldly reply, 'as if I have a choice' as he had done with Legolas but something in the elf's eyes stopped him, something vulnerable and wounded and desperate. Instead he merely nodded his head in acquiescence.
With infinite care, Elrond lifted his son's shirt to reveal the wrapped wounds. To his relief, no blood marred the pristinely white cloth bandages. His skilled hands pressed on the bandages only hard enough to determine that no stitches were torn in either of the wounds but he had felt his son stiffen in agony in reaction to his inspections. Not able to endure the increased look of pain upon his son's already too pale face, Elrond kept his focus firmly upon Aragorn's chest as he felt the exposed skin, satisfied that it was not burning with infection. Then slowly he reached his hand toward Aragorn's forehead, all the while fearing his son's reaction to such a touch.
Aragorn forced himself to not flinch away from Elrond's descending hand. As his father's hand gently came to rest on his forehead, Aragorn was stunned to feel as if every wrong could be set right in the world...that no harm could come to him, not when his father was with him. Desperately, Aragorn grasped onto the soothing comfort only his father had ever been able to offer to him. Valar, how long had it been since he had felt such protection, such comfort amid a world that sought to destroy him, body, heart and soul? It was long before Barion came into his life bearing both truth and lies. It was even longer than he had been the chieftain of the rangers. Closing his eyes, he wanted to drown in the comfort his elven father gave to him, too desperate to feel shame at needing the elf's presence in his life.
When Aragorn's eyes closed, Elrond was uncertain if Aragorn closed his eyes to better endure his touch or if what he had thought he had seen in his son's eyes was true. Did Aragorn enjoy his touch? Even cling to it with desperate need? Unwilling to withhold any possible comfort from his son, Elrond kept his hand upon his son's brow, trying to send all his love through the connection. When Aragorn made no move to dislodge his touch, Elrond began to lightly stroke Aragorn's sweat drenched locks of hair. In mere moments, Aragorn's breathing fell into a quiet rhythm of peaceful sleep.
Elrond found he could not force himself to leave his son's side, not when he had fought so hard to be allowed such an honor. So it was as the younger elves fed the horses and then retired to the fire in quiet conversation, Elrond sat contentedly at his son's side. With a feather light touch, his fingers traced the scar above the man's lip. Unbidden, thoughts of the other scars he had found upon his son's body bombarded his mind and he could not fight down the fear that assaulted him. As much as he needed to know how his son had acquired each wound, in equal parts he dreaded that the knowledge of the danger his son had faced would break down his secure barriers. How could he let the man go back to the life that brought him so very close to death? Especially when they were still at such odds?! If Aragorn should challenge Barion and lose... Elrond closed his eyes, choking on the sob that threatened to burst from him. No! He would not let Aragorn's life be cut short, not by Barion nor by the dangerous life of the rangers. If need be he would make the same difficult choice he had forced Legolas to make: He would choose to save Aragorn's life regardless of the consequences...even if those consequences would be his banishment from his son's heart.
Aragorn flinched slightly from the touch he had detected even in his sleep. With a sigh, Elrond pulled his hand back from the scar and rested his clenched hands in his lap. However, he could not force his eyes to leave his son's face, a face worn not so much by time as life. When Aragorn's head tossed to the left, Elrond knew a dream had stolen his son's peace. He was about to put a comforting hand upon Aragorn's forehead when the man surged from the ground into a sitting position, his eyes unfocused and his breathing heavy.
Startled by his son's reaction, Elrond softly called out in alarm, "Estel?!" Fearing the man's energy would fail him, he slipped his arm behind Aragorn's back to support him even as his son's eyes snapped to him in surprise.
Still plagued by the images and emotions of his dream, Aragorn could not speak for a moment. As it was, he had no need for speech.
Without prompting, Elrond put a waterskin in his son's hands and watched as Aragorn drank deeply and closed his eyes. Shooting a look behind him, Elrond saw shock humming through Elladan and Elrohir. However, he read not shock but pain and increased worry in Legolas's face. The prince had alluded to witnessing Aragorn's nightmares but Elrond had not appreciated the pain that had to have caused his human son's best friend... until now. Determining that none of the younger elf would move to Aragorn's side, fearing that they would startle the already shaken man, Elrond returned his attention to his son.
Opening his eyes, Aragorn's gaze rested on everything save his elven father as shame coated his soul. 'How long will you conjure up ghosts where there were none!? You allow Barion to torture you all over again every time you shut your eyes! You are stronger than this!' He jerked as Elrond's hand came to rest on his shoulder and his eyes flew automatically to his father's face. He feared what his father would say, the disappointed look that would darkened the elf's eyes. His fears were unwarranted. Concern and compassion alone shone in Elrond's eyes and the words he spoke were unexpected.
Perceptively knowing why his son had been torn from his peaceful sleep, Elrond restated his earlier deduction. "Barion put you in that tomb because he wanted you to ask Arathorn..to ask your father for a quick, merciful death." When no denials came from Aragorn, Elrond breathlessly asked, his heart in his throat. "Did you?"
Elladan, Elrohir and Legolas all ceased to breathe, waiting for Aragorn's reply.
Meeting Elrond's eyes, Aragorn qualified lowly, "Did I ask my father for death?"
Finding speech beyond his abilities, Elrond simply nodded, feeling as if his heart would never beat again as he awaited his son's answer.
Looking away from Elrond's piercing eyes, Aragorn looked forward, not seeing the forest before him but instead remembering the blinding darkness of the tomb. There was no pride in his voice as he choked out, "No. I asked instead for his aid in escaping the tomb." Without warning Aragorn began to stand and Elrond found himself instinctively aiding his son to his feet without protest. "It may have done some good," Aragorn added before he walked to his horse, leaving his stunned family and friend behind.
Watching his son walk away with his head high and his walk void of any evidence of his pain, Elrond was overwhelmed by indebtedness to Arathorn. 'I know you let him return to me when you could have called him to your side, Arathorn. I can never thank you enough for that...or for ever offering me the honor and pleasure of having him in my life...in my very heart. I will not fail you once more. I will not let him come again to the point of requesting death or salvation from you.'
A hand on his arm startled Elrond from his vow. Elladan stood before him searching his father's eyes for an explanation for the elder elf's trance. Reading his son's question, Elrond did not offer any words of explanation.
"Is he well enough to continue this journey?" Elladan demanded of his healer father, his expression showing that he would take what steps he must to protect his youngest brother if Elrond should say he should not venture forward.
"The rest did him some good," Elrond absently replied, his eyes upon Aragorn, Elrohir and Legolas as they all stood beside the horses. With satisfaction he watched as Elrohir saddled his brother's horse while Legolas effectively barred Aragorn's path to his horse. Turning to Elladan, Elrond saw the frustration in his son. "He will do no further harm to himself in reaching the ranger's camp."
Assured by his father's words, Elladan set himself to abandoning the camp. Efficiently he put out the fire, collected Aragorn's bedroll and blanket from the ground and stalked to his horse.
As Elrond approached his fellow travelers, he had to fight back a chuckle as he heard Aragorn's words to Legolas, who still obstinately stood between the man and his horse.
"Is this your subtle way of asking if I need help getting on my horse?" Aragorn sallied to his overprotective friend.
"No, this is my not so subtle way of telling you that the "only" way you are getting on your horse is with my help," Legolas countered, his determination as palpable as his affection for the man before him.
With ill grace, Aragorn ordered, "Well, help me on already."
Satisfied, Legolas stood aside, intently watched as the man stepped to his horse, ready to capture the man's arm if he should make the slightest move to try and mount unaided. To Legolas' relief and surprise, Aragorn halted beside his horse and turned an impatient glare upon his friend. Instantly, Legolas laced his hands together and bent over. Aragorn put his foot into Legolas's hands and, before he knew it, he was sitting on his horse's back with a very smugly smiling Legolas at his side.
Aragorn returned Legolas' smile for smile and then kicked his horse into motion, leaving the unmounted elves behind. He did not need to turn around to know all four elves were scrambling onto their horses. Soon he heard four horses gallop up to his side but he merely kept his eyes focused forward as if nothing out of the ordinary had occurred.
"Funny, Aragorn," Legolas grumbled, drawing even with his best friend.
"I thought so," Aragorn replied, a smile forming on his lips as he shot his friend a quick side ways glance. The Mirkwood elf could not keep the happy sparkle from his eyes. He was back where he belonged: at Aragorn's side.
"We can still reach the ranger's camp before night fall," Aragorn provided to his traveling companions.
The Rivendell elves accepted this news silently.
Having been rewarded again with Aragorn's friendship, Legolas hazarded asking a question he had not been able to answer on his own. "I do not understand how Barion could be welcomed by the rangers. Surely some of the rangers remembered him and would not have so readily forgiven him his betrayal to your father."
Struck by Legolas' innocence, Aragorn stiffened in his stance. "None live that served with Barion."
"But how is that possible? Are not most rangers Dunedain? Blessed with long life?" Legolas' disbelief and sadness resonated through his words. He almost flinched in pain when Aragorn's dark eyes came to rest on him.
"The race of the Dunedain is blessed with long life. The same can not be said of a life among the rangers during these dark times." Seeing denial in his friend's eyes, Aragorn clarified, "Dunedain fall just as quickly under the sword and succumb to illness like all other mortals, Legolas."
Whatever false security Legolas had gleamed from knowing Aragorn was of the Dunedain faded away with his friend's words. What good was the blessing of long life if Aragorn chose a life among the rangers, a life which forced him to fight off death nigh every day!?! "Why court death by being a ranger, Aragorn?"
The question caught Aragorn off guard and his horse skittered about nervously before Aragorn got him under control. No one had ever asked him that question before and it took him a moment of soul searching before he knew his own reasoning. "Being a ranger, aiding others, it somehow makes me feel whole, like I am exactly where I was meant to be. Among the rangers, it matters not what name I call myself, what destiny would bid me do, nor even what blood flows in my veins. They elected me chieftain before they knew I was Arathorn's son. I "earned" their respect, their love. I will not turn my back on them."
Legolas knew what Aragorn did not say, 'not even for you, Legolas, not even for my family.' "Every time we meet, you are some how changed, some how someone I admire more. Even when I think I can not be more proud of you, I find another surge of pride flow through me. I will not ask of you what you willingly will not give, I will not ask you to cease being the person I find myself in awe of time after time."
Gratitude and relief gleamed in Aragorn's eyes, "Thank you, mellon nin."
Hearing the conversation between his son and Legolas, Elrond's heart questioned, 'Could you pledge what Legolas has? You say that you value your son's life above his love for you but do you value his happiness above his life?' Silently he pleaded to any Valar that would give him ear, 'Do not force these choices upon me! Was I not punished enough by being separated from my parents, from Elros, from my wife? Do I also have to relinquish my mortal son to the whims of fate?! To the consequences of my own foolish decisions?'
No answers were forthcoming as the five travelers made their way steadily toward the ranger camp.
Aragorn led the others through the forest, expecting to come upon a posted guard for the ranger camp at any moment. Instead, as he rode deeper into the forest he heard a sound he knew only too well, the sound of battle. "The rangers are under attack!" he announced to his traveling companions as he drew his sword, grimaced at the pain the action ignited in his wounds, and kicked his horse into a run.
"Aragorn!" Legolas called after his friend before ordering his own horse to follow the ranger's reckless charge. The prince did not need to look behind him to know Elladan, Elrohir and Elrond were at his heels.
As his horse thundered under him, Aragorn soon saw the combatants that rimmed the ranger camp. Seeing a man ready to plunge his sword into the back of a ranger that was already engaged in battle with two other men, Aragorn kicked his horse into a faster run. Before the man could detect his approach, Aragorn rode between the man and the ranger, his sword slicing through the man's stomach. Without breaking his horse's stride, Aragorn turned his horse toward another congested area of fighting. As he rode into the thick of the battle, his sword made quick work of two more men before he halted in the midst of the storm of combat. Suddenly he found two men approaching him from both sides. Arching his sword to the right, Aragorn's blade caught the one man across the throat, killing him instantly, even as he kicked the man in the chest who attacked on his left. Barely stunned, the man on the left charged for Aragorn, intent on plunging his sword into the ranger's side. Aragorn was maneuvering his sword around to his left side to block the man's sword but suddenly he knew he would not be quick enough, his injuries were slowing him down ...fatally.
Suddenly an elven arrow pierced the man's chest, propelling him backward to the forest floor. Looking behind him, Aragorn saw Legolas approaching, his now empty bow in his hands. Aragorn gave a nod of thanks to his elven friend before he sought out more of the enemies that had set upon the rangers.
'Sweet Eru that was too close!' ran through Legolas' mind as he notched another arrow and took down another man in Aragorn's path. Kicking his horse forward, the prince followed closely behind his reckless human friend. Keeping one eye on the men attacking the rangers and the other on the ranger, Legolas waged his own battle, his arrows bringing down any men that neared his friend and occasionally tearing his protection from his friend long enough to take down any threats to his own person. After one such necessity, he looked up and cursed. He had lost sight of Aragorn.
Aragorn plunged his sword into a man's chest, withdrew it and parried a sword that would have skewered his leg. With a flick of his wrist, his parry turned into a brutal strike that put his sword into his attacker's shoulder. Kicking the man from his sword blade, Aragorn surveyed the battle and was relieved to see very few men still engaged in battle. Suddenly fury burned in him as he saw across the forest a face he would never forget, Barion. Kicking his horse into action, Aragorn tightened his grip upon his sword and steered his horse expertly through the remaining combatants.
As if he sensed his own danger, Barion's head snapped around to settle upon Aragorn. Shock radiated from the exranger but it soon morphed into a mask of hatred. Raising his sword before him in that gesture of honor he had given Aragorn before their personal battle, Barion turned around and ran through the woods.
Any understanding that Barion's past had garnered in Aragorn vanished as Aragorn was face to face again with the man who had left him to die in that tomb. Blinded by his emotions, he urged his horse into a faster run. The only thing Aragorn was aware of was his raging need to get his revenge upon Barion. He never sensed the arrow that sailed through the air, aimed for his heart.
TBC ))))))))
Hey I haven't given you a really good cliffie for a long time so I thought you deserved one!
Replies to Reviews:
Deana: Thanks for your compliment! You are right, Aragorn would feel guilty if Legolas got hurt when they were still at odds with one another. It's best to go into battle with their friendship intact...like they did before Helms' deep. Hope to hear from you again!
Someone Reading: I'm so moved that my writing garners such emotional responses from you! And I am honored to have surprised you!! I was hoping that everyone would be pleasantly surprised when Elrond joined the companions! I think there is so much depth to Elrond that it's a shame to simply see him as the elven lord, content to sit back and let the world come apart at the seams without stepping forward to fight against that fate. I really appreciate your thoughts on each and every chapter!
Elven Kitten: Thanks for your compliment and I am almost sorry for making you sad last chapter...almost. Keep taking good care of my favorite ranger!
Marbienl: I had to laugh when you were upset that Legolas and Aragorn's talk was interrupted by Elrond's arrival! Yes, Elrond is "starting to understand Aragorn's suffering" and even more so in this newest chapter. Do I hear a little sympathy in your "tone" for Barion?! See, I knew you'd catch onto Barion's true threat to Aragorn and his secret. I couldn't fit in Legolas' faded light but I did add the jab from the twins to Legolas regarding how bright his light was in this chapter for YOU! But I LOVE the fading Legolas scene you described and wondered if I could use it in another story I'm working on? I am so honored to be in your top three "favorite" favorite authors!!!!! That just makes my heart swell in happiness!!! Thank you!
Sielge: Whew! So glad you liked last chapter enough to not be mad at me! Now I've just have to hope you really liked this chapter since I made you wait sooooo long for it! Thanks for reviewing!!
Tailspin: I was touched at your persistence to review last chapter even though ffnet was giving you grief!!! I really would have missed your review! I can't thank you enough for saying "one thing I love about your writing is your ability to set the tone of a scene". I really struggle to remember to describe the situation /surroundings because I get so caught up in writing conversations! I sometimes write the conversations first and then have to fill in the 'background scenery". Me...draw out the angst?! Hmmm...definitely! It was perfect that you wanted a Legolas and Aragorn conversation because I almost didn't put in their reconciliation scene in this chapter. I just wasn't sure if anyone cared to "see" that scene, especially since it seemed to delay the action I thought everyone was patiently waiting to read. So you can thank yourself for the scene you read in this chapter! I always appreciate your thoughts so keep them coming!
Tychen: Elrond is pleased that he's gotten out of your doghouse!! You were right about Aragorn needing to forgive himself for treating Legolas so shabby and for accepting he is worthy of that friendship. Glad you see the importance of Barion's lie about never being bested by Arathorn. I think it gives Aragorn the renewed hope that he too can best the ex-ranger. I was so pleased that you liked my "shade of grey to the picture" when I revealed Barion's past. I figured that life is complicated, why should life in Middle Earth be any different, especially for someone as tortured by life as Aragorn. I like that you care enough about my villain to wonder if he will try for redemption! As for that question...I'm not telling (OK basically because I don't know yet but you've got me thinking!) Thanks always for your wonderful insight!
Grumpy: You're right, Elrond should have packed a lot of bandages! Glad you were happy to see the elven lord join the journey. Yes, Aragorn is 'starting to put his brain in gear" and see things more clearly and mend some of his bridges. Thank goodness because as always, that reckless human can use all the help he can get! If Barion didn't get that itchy feeling last chapter he sure will have it by the end of this chapter! Thanks for your wonderful review!
Lindahoyland: Thanks for your review! Hope you get a chance to read more of the story and though it hasn't contained that much action, I hope it still entertains you!
Lenneth: I just couldn't let Elrond behind to stew on his anger without trying to get some good old revenge now could I?! And you are right, Aragorn is softening toward Elrond. I think love tempers anger in varies degrees. Aragorn's view on hope is very dismal at the moment but since I'm a Christian, hope is something I strongly believe in so I really debated putting such a nasty spin on hope but in life you get down and bitter but in the end, hope, love and faith see us all through life's journeys...just like they will see Aragorn through this particular journey. I love reading your reviews and truly appreciate your support in this story!
Moonfire1: I'm proud of myself for getting YOU to feel even a smidgen of sympathy for Barion! I guess I always feel like there is "some" good in everyone even our enemies. As you saw in this chapter, Aragorn did have the courage to admit to Legolas that he had been wrong to treat him as he did. If I were Elrond, I would feel more guilty knowing that Arathorn was forced to ask Barion to protect Aragorn when he rejected his request and Barion did such a lousy job of it or, to be more accurate, no job of it at all! I always enjoy your reviews and appreciate all the time you've invested in this story!
Nefhiriel: Glad you liked Aragorn last chapter! And I love the father son interaction so I just had to force Elrond along on this journey! (Poor elf) I love that you think I've made Barion a "uniquely deep bad guy"!! I'm always afraid that people will find information about the villain boring, glad you don't feel that way! As for how many chapters there will be in this story... I wish I knew! I'm still writing this as I go! But I do know the key scenes and the ending so I am no way abandoning the story until it's over. Thanks so much for reviewing again!
Joslin: No need to apologize I'm just thrilled to know you're still reading the story and enjoying it!!!! I know, I've taken Elrond out of the normal atmosphere and I wasn't sure if I went too far by getting him out of his robes and into "casual" elf wear but I have to say I like the idea of him out adventuring with his sons. And yes, that stubborn ranger finally understood Legolas' true motives: friendship. It's always a pleasure hearing from you!
Beling2: Claps hands I got another gold star for sending Elrond on the journey!! I KNEW you'd appreciate that! And you are right about Elrond's motives, he will "stand by his sons, ALL of them" regardless of Aragorn's wishes. I think you captured Elladan and Elrohir's feelings exactly. They are in a really tough place, wanting to fix everything and yet that is out of their hands so they simply have to stand back, send up prayers and sneak in any support to Aragorn that they can. As for the "crack" in Aragorn's barriers, it's getting wider! I think he's realized that he could die if he faced Barion again in battle and that's got him thinking about what matters most in life. Those he loves and the ones that love him back. Your reviews are always a treat for me to read, mellon nin! Thank you!
No Big Deal: You thought Elrond's arrival was a "wicked cool surprise"!!! I LOVE that !! I was afraid you would all see that coming. Glad to know I'm not too predictable! And I've always been fascinated by Elrond so I'm always up for delving deeper into his character! In this chapter Aragorn makes his apology to Legolas and I truly thought about you when I reread it! I'm really hoping you don't think Aragorn's apology came off as "groveling crybaby attempt" because that's not how I intended it to sound! Please tell me what you think!!! I think Elrond's maturity has given him the clarity to see the "big picture" as you said but he's sketching it out quite well for the others..even Aragorn. Now you know I'm even more of a "wicked, wicked fanfic writer" because, not only did I make you wait longer than usual for this chapter but then I had the audacity to end this chapter on a true cliffie! (No, that is NOT remorse you hear in my words...why? Because you pegged me right...I am wicked!) Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts with me because it really helps me to make this a better story!
Et-spritus-sancti: I'm blushing here over your wonderful review! I'm so happy that you thought Barion's history was "very well crafted together"!!! I actually figured that out pretty early in this story but then I had to see where I could reveal it to Aragorn and you the reader. I love making things complicated for our hero! So relieved that the history made sense and, yes, even got some sympathy out of you for our villain! And I think Barion "was" a good guy before all that tragedy struck him. Ok now I'm even feeling some softening for the guy! Thanks again for being such a faithful reviewer!
Viggomaniac: Thank you so much for your terrific review! I have to say I was a little apprehensive about the chapter and everyone's feedback. Pleased that you liked all the emotional elements last chapter and I hope you liked those continuing themes this chapter. Yes, Barion is a real big threat to Aragorn. It kinda begs the question, how far would you go to protect the ones you love? You want MORE ranger angst?!?! (gosh I love you cause I'm always up for more ranger angst!) Well, there is no shortage of ranger angst in the upcoming chapters. I can't tell you this is going to be an angsty story and then short changed you, right? And you are right, if Aragorn were real...he'd be wishing for death if he had to endure everything us poor fanfic writers put him through! It truly is a good think for fiction! I love hearing from you and your take on the chapters!
Elvingirl3737: Please do not apologize for having a life, unlike me! But hey, I did enjoy the lick of your Estel so your guilt was not totally a waste...at least not for me!!! You had me smiling when you said the chapter was "bloody brilliant" Thank you!!! I was worried that Aragorn's feelings would seem to wishy washy and no one would like the chapter! Glad you liked Aragorn's revelation about Legolas' true motivates for his actions and Elrond's arrival. I like that you "still" want to kill Barion, especially after he almost got little Estel killed. I might feel some softening for the ex-ranger but I still agree with you, the man's gotta die! Snatches the honey dipped elven twins from your hands" Thanks they are yummy! Thanks for taking the time out of your real life to encourage me in writing this little tale! I really appreciate your reviews!
Eternal Rose: So now I know what a die hard Elrond fan you are! Glad I made you happy by having Elrond join the journey and I'm happy you approve of his entire. I wasn't quite sure what to have him wear but I thought maybe the simple outfit would serve his purposes best, besides he needed that warrior look. Since I promised a happy ending for this story, I thought I had better start making inroads into a reconciliation between the father and son. As for your catches, yup that was a run on sentence! Sorry! As for the horses, I am the total opposite from an expert but I've ridden enough times to be thrown off, bitten,kicked and almost become road kill. I either get the horse ready for a race or for the retirement stable but when that barn comes into sight, trust me, they know how to "push" their way through the other horses. After reading this chapter you know they did rest and reach the ranger's camp. And I think it's pretty safe to say the rangers know Barion is no longer an ally to them. The next chapter will reveal if the rangers knew Aragorn was alive and we will met up with Halbarad. I have to admit, I'm a little nervous that you won't like my take on Halbarad. If only Tolkein would have given me a little more background on the ranger! Guess we're stuck with our own interpretation. And I'm feeling better after being on vacation, thanks for caring about me! I also wish you a great week! Thanks again for all the help, insight and compliments you stuff in your reviews! I love 'em!
Thanks so much for reading this chapter and a special thanks to all who review!
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: Sorry about the delay in posting! I went on vacation and didn't get a chance to write a chapter before I left. Now I'm back and with a pretty long chapter! Hope you like it!
Chapter 14 )))))))))
"Barion 'must' die," Elrond gravely declared.
"I have every intention of making him pay dearly for what he has done," Aragorn lowly promised.
Elrond's jaw clenched, his son did not understand that his words were not an exaggerated wish for revenge but a necessity. Gripping both of Aragorn's shoulders, he clarified, "Barion can 'not' be allowed to live. He bears too great a threat to you."
"What?!" Aragorn exclaimed, feeling as if his whole world no longer made sense.
Elrond's resolve did not waver but instead became more fortified. "Barion knows who you are, Aragorn! He will reveal your secret!"
Aragorn's jaw clenched, "I thought you would be pleased if someone found a way to force my destiny upon me."
"Sweet Eru, Estel!" Elrond cried, surprising his companions with the despair in his tone. "I would do all in my power to protect your secret, forever, if I could! Your future is in "your" hands and I would see it stays that way! If Sauron learns of you now...your life could be forfeit! It is not time for such things to be revealed, I know that you feel this is true as strongly as I do!"
Aragorn looked away. Curse his destiny and all the despair and pain it caused! When he met Elrond's eyes again, he was once again the controlled ranger. "And your solution to this problem is to murder Barion? Is that the elven solution when one threatens their secrets? It is no wonder that Barion thought I would murder him upon the trail when he spoke of my secret! He feared the influence you elves had upon me."
"We do not speak of merely a secret! We speak of your life, Estel! Sauron will find you and you will pray for death! I will do anything I must to protect you from that fate! Anything," Elrond passionately vowed.
Aragorn could see the truth in the eyes of the one he had called Ada. Shocked to his core, Aragorn realized that Elrond would commit murder to protect him. He gripped Elrond's shoulder, "You are not thinking clearly! Barion is not some orc to be slaughtered!" Grasping for an explanation for Elrond's uncharacteristically harsh judgment, Aragorn stilled as an unwelcome notion sprang into his heart. Quietly he demanded, "So, if necessary, you will commit murder to save the "the hope of Middle Earth"?"
Elrond put his hand to Aragorn's cheek and Aragorn was too stunned by the gentle caress to pull away. With love shining in his eyes, Elrond firmly insisted, "Not because you are the world's hope but because you are my son! I will do what I must to see no harm comes to you!"
"There are limits to what you can do to protect me! There must be limits or we will all fall into the shadow willingly," Aragorn implored, not even disputing Elrond's claim that he was his son. "Barion's fate is in my hands and in Barion's own hands..as is my own fate. The battle must wage earnestly between Barion and I. Together we will decide our respective fates. It is not for you to decide."
"Aragorn.." Elrond began to plead but Aragorn shook his head.
"You have always taught me to stand up and fight my own battles, to make my own way in this world. When will you stop condemning me for following your instructions?" sorrow lacing his words. Pulling back from Elrond's touch, Aragorn set his horse upon the path and started heading north.
Elrond bowed his head and clenched his hand. He had been so close to reclaiming his son and then, somehow, he had let him slip out of his embrace. Lifting his eyes, he saw his elven sons bestowing worried looks upon him. With a nod of his head, he sent them to follow after Legolas, who had already gained Aragorn's side. Bringing up the rear, Elrond let his thoughts sink back into the words his son had said. 'Yes, I taught Estel to fight his own battles.... but I "never" promised that I would idly stand by and see him harmed. For that is a promise I would have broken every time...like I will break it this time,' he resolutely pledged.
Legolas shot a look to the man riding at his side but seeing the cold set to Aragorn's features, he let silence reign between them. Now was not the time to press his friendship back onto the man, by force, if necessary. No, right now Aragorn needed just to know that he did not walk this path alone. 'You are not alone, mellon nin. When ever you have need of me, I will always be there for you,' Legolas silently reassured as he moved his horse closer to the ranger's mount.
The sun was past it's zenith as the five travelers entered the forests of northern Arnor, having left the sanctuary of the border of Rivendell's forest late in the morning and already crossed a vast section of open plains. Little conversation had been held as the miles were traversed, leaving each traveler entirely too much time to maul over their overwrought emotions.
With the openness of their trail across the plains, there had been no way to hold Aragorn back from taking the lead, though Elladan and Elrohir had numerous times rode to the front only to find themselves overtaken by their brother not long after. But they did not speak a word of protest, knowing the waste of breath that would be. Nor did Elrond utter one word upon the journey.
No matter where Aragorn resided in the troupe, he found that Legolas stayed loyally glued to his side. Aragorn, with a trembling hand, brushed perspiration from his forehead, squinted into the sun and fought to stay conscious against the waves of agony washing over him. He had known pain would be his constant companion on the journey but he had not judged the level of pain correctly. Not at all. Experience had shown him able to bear pain well. Agony, however, was another thing altogether.
It was Aragorn's simple act of raising his trembling hand to his sweat drenched brow that finally managed to surpass Legolas's level of endurance. This day, with heart wrenching concern, he had watched as Aragorn's face turned whiter and whiter even as sweat drenched his friend's hair and brow. Worse still, he had felt the pain emanating from the man as if it were a tangible thing. But no longer could he watch his friend suffer needlessly. Without warning, he swiftly reached over and pulled back on his friend's reins, bringing the ranger's horse to an abrupt stop.
Startled from his pain induced stupor, Aragorn shot a surprised look to Legolas.
"We will rest here," Legolas announced, nodding to a clearing to their right.
"No. If we are to reach my camp before nightfall we must press on," Aragorn refuted surprised at how weak and breathless his own voice sounded.
Fearing that the ranger would surge his horse forward, Legolas tightened his grip upon Aragorn's horse's reigns. Though his heart was heavy with worry, Legolas lightly taunted, hoping to sway the man from protesting the stop too fiercely, "You are a ranger. Surely you can find your way to your camp in the dark."
The three Rivendell elfs had halted behind Aragorn and Legolas. They watched the scene before them with trepidation, knowing that, among them, Legolas was probably the only one that could convince Aragorn to take a short rest...well, without using force.
Aragorn wanted to refute Legolas' words, to insist that they could not afford the delay, but in truth, Legolas was right, he was capable of finding the camp amid the darkest of nights if need be. This coupled with his fierce yearning to simply lie down, to not feel the gait of a horse rip pain through him, to close his eyes and shut out the world if only for a little while, sent him teetering on the edge of acquiescing to Legolas' suggestion.
When Aragorn did not reply right away, Legolas began to guide both Aragorn's mount and his own to the clearing.
"Legolas.." Aragorn started to protest, his hand covering the elven hand on his reigns but when Legolas's eyes met his own, Aragorn fell silent. By the set look on Legolas' face, Aragorn knew nothing would convince the elf to release his reins, not now that Aragorn had hesitated in his refusal. Removing his hand from Legolas', Aragorn placidly allowed the elf to lead both their horses to the outskirts of the clearing.
Swinging from his horse's back, Legolas tied both his horse and Aragorn's to the nearest tree. Beside him, Elladan, Elrohir and Elrond did like wise with their own mounts.
Accepting that he would not be allowed to ride any further, Aragorn swung his leg over his horse and slid to the ground, a graceful dismount but very subdued in comparison with his normal leap from the saddle. Even taking such caution, Aragorn's legs buckled under him. Only by his tight grip on the saddle and the support of his horse's strong body at his side did he manage to remain standing. Instantly, Elrond was at his side, reaching out to support his son but Aragorn's one word halted his actions, "Don't."
The pain of rejection bathed over Elrond's soul anew. Whatever steps he had made to reconcile with his son were not great enough to earn him the privilege aiding his son. Stumbling back a step, Elrond painfully gave his son the distance away from him he so sorely desired.
When he could rely solely upon his own strength, Aragorn leaned away from his horse and stood with only a slight tremble in his stance. However, his body was far from forgiving for the punishment Barion had inflicted on it or for the punishment Aragorn himself was now piling on it since his departure from bed. Knowing he needed some time away from the watchful eyes of the elves, Aragorn slowly began to walk into the woods.
All eyes of the elves tracked his slow departure and Elladan took a step after his brother but a strong hand latched onto his forearm. He turned to meet the eyes of Legolas.
"Please, allow me to go," Legolas softly pleaded, his eyes full of need.
Elladan smirked, "He will probably welcome your presence better than mine anyway. Go," he gently ordered.
Immediately Legolas ran quickly into the woods where Aragorn had disappeared moments prior.
Bent over, his hands braced on his legs, and his eyes clamped shut, Aragorn drew in deep breaths and willed himself not to pass out. The last thing he needed to do was to give the four elves that traveled with him the arsenal to prove how wrong he had been to leave his bed and undertake this journey. However, the ill feeling was not fading but increasing. With dread, he began to accept that he would indeed have to suffer the reprimanding "I told you so" lectures.
Unexpectedly, two arms wrapped around his waist and he was pulled against a strong body. "Let us sit down for awhile," a soft voice soothed that he knew unmistakably was Legolas's. True to the suggestion, Aragorn felt himself lowered to the ground.
When Aragorn came to rest on his knees, Legolas pulled him gently to the left and settled his friend upon his chest. Aragorn offered no protests to his friend's ministrations. "Bend your head down and breathe deeply."
Doing as he was instructed, Aragorn sank his head lower and drew in deeper breaths. He flinched as a hand lightly stroked his head but did not pull away from the contact.
In a voice raspy with pain, Aragorn quietly said, "You should not be here."
Stunned, Legolas's hand stilled and his heart broke as pain consumed him. He had thought the rift between he and Aragorn was lessening. How could he have read the signs so falsely? The answer was quick and certain: because you desperately wanted to believe it, no matter how little truth resided in it.
Legolas almost withdrew from his friend when Aragorn continued, sadly, "I do not deserve your friendship. I have proven that before but never so blatantly as I have these last two days. I know you travel with me out of loyalty but it is a loyalty you do not owe me."
Relief and joy saturated Legolas as he realized that Aragorn's friendship was within his grasp. "You have my friendship and loyalty forever, mellon nin, and you are deserving of both!"
Marginally shaking his head, Aragorn denied with sorrow and self recrimination, "No, the words I said to you...Valar, Legolas, I told you to go home...I implied that we were no longer friends."
Legolas unconsciously pulled his friend closer and softly replied, "I forgave you your words the moment they were spoken."
Aragorn's head came up in shock and his surprised eyes met Legolas'. "Why?"
A tender smile turned up Legolas's lips as warmth for his friend glittered in his eyes. "Because I knew you did not mean them, that it was your despair that led you to push me away, hoping to spare you any more pain."
Aragorn's guilt would not let him accept such forgiveness. "You can not simply forgive me. My words will stand between us.."
Shaking his head with good humor, Legolas smirked, "Do you think I will allow false words to steal away the friendship that has come to mean so much to me? Sorry, Estel but you can not rid me from your side, not with words or even with the whole army of Mordor. You must face the truth. You are stuck with me forever."
Aragorn's heart lightened. His foolishness had not cost him his best friend after all. "I would not have it any other way, mellon nin," he vowed as he put his hand on his friend's shoulder and Legolas laid his own hand upon Aragorn's shoulder and gave it a reassuring squeeze.
Their smiles soon turned to chuckles as their tension morphed into joyous relief. Changing his hold upon his friend, Legolas said, "Come, I will aid you back to the clearing so you can get the rest I intended when I called a halt to our journey."
Aragorn, looking at Legolas with a twinkle in his eyes that Legolas had missed, teased, "Here I thought we were stopping because "you" were weary."
Snorting, Legolas sarcastically agreed, "Oh, right, I forgot," reveling in the lightheartedness once again sparking between him and Aragorn.
Drawing the man's arm over his shoulder, Legolas wrapped his arm around his friend's waist and slowly aided Aragorn gently to his feet.
Dizziness struck Aragorn as he gained his feet, causing him to close his eyes again while he felt himself being pulled more securely against Legolas.
Worry overshadowed the elf's previous happiness. "Can you make it back to the clearing or should I.."
"No," Aragorn cut in with a trace of his usual humor. "No, you should "not" carry me." Taking in a steadying breath, he relegated his pain behind his barriers and opened his eyes to see Legolas' blue eyes watching him worriedly. "I can make it on my own two feet without..."
"Nay, I am not releasing you, mellon nin. Together we will make our way back to your family." Before the man could protest, the elf began to steer Aragorn back the way he had come.
It took all of Aragorn's concentration to keep his feet moving, to hold back the cry of pain that was crawling up his throat, and right the swaying world around him.
As they returned to the clearing, Legolas saw that a camp had been established which sported a fire and had a bedroll laying beside it that looked suspiciously like Aragorn's bedroll. Immediately Legolas headed for the bedroll, concerned as he found himself bearing more of Aragorn's weight with every step. Sparing only a small glance to the three other elves standing by the horses, Legolas eased Aragorn down upon the bedroll. Gently Legolas pressed Aragorn to lie down, straightened out the man's legs, grabbed the blanket that sat beside the bedroll and wrapped it around his friend.
When Aragorn reappeared being supported by Legolas, Elrond's heart clenched and his only thought was to go to his son. He had taken but one step before a hand latched onto his arm. Surprised, his eyes flew up to Elrohir's.
Gently, Elrohir advised, "He will react badly if we swarm to his side. Let Legolas get him settled before you approach."
It went against Elrond's heart but his mind knew the wisdom of his son's words. Elrohir had always been sensitive to his human brother's feelings more than any of the other elves. Trusting his son's judgment in this, Elrond nodded and watched the prince lower his son to the bedroll and cover him with the blanket. He could not help loving Legolas at that moment for being such an unequalled friend to his human son. As if his thoughts had drawn the prince's attention, Legolas looked up, met his eyes and nodded his head.
Having beckoned Elrond to Aragorn's side, Legolas turned again to Aragorn whose eyes studied him. "Your father must check your wounds, for his peace of mind as well as my own. Please allow him to do this small thing, Aragorn."
Tiredly but without rancor, Aragorn sallied back, "You ask it of me as if I had a choice," and a small smirk appeared on his too pale face.
Knowing Aragorn's words to be acceptance, Legolas smiled, stood up and met Elrond mid way across the clearing.
Elrond's eyes were focused behind Legolas to his son even as his question was for the prince, "How badly does he fare?"
"He is in a lot of pain and is weary beyond words," Legolas quietly passed along, finally drawing Elrond's worried gaze from his son to the prince. "But he will not be deterred from this journey," Legolas warned, fearing that the man's father would make a futile attempt to sway Aragorn's set mind. In relief, he watched as Elrond nodded in agreement before the elder elf walked by him and crossed to his son. Legolas could not help but turn around and watch as Aragorn's father knelt at his son's side. A moment later Legolas made his way to Elladan and Elrohir.
The twin's eyes were transfixed upon their father and brother as Legolas joined them. Tearing their looks away they focused upon their Mirkwood friend and both noted the change in Legolas.
"You have been forgiven," Elladan stated in surprise, happiness and a sliver of jealousy.
Legolas could not keep the smile from springing to his mouth, "It shows?"
Elrohir answered the prince's question, "We will have no worry about seeing in the darkness this night for your glow could lead us like it were day time."
No longer able to suppress his joy, Legolas's eyes sparkled with it. A moment later, however, the sparkle faded as he saw sorrow still clung unmercifully to Elladan and Elrohir. "Do not be dispirited. Aragorn has already returned to your safekeeping some of his heart."
Contrary to Legolas's intentions, Elladan's features darkened with regret. "It is not enough, mellon nin, not nearly enough," his eyes fixed upon his brother's prone figure. "I want it to be as it was. I want my brother back," the yearning in his voice striking pain into Legolas's heart.
Feeling his brother's pain merge with his own, Elrohir strived to cling to some comfort. Putting a hand upon Elladan's shoulder, he promised, his eyes forging into his brother's, "We will get our little brother back. We will." Slowly his eyes fell upon his father, whose very posture spoke of uncertainty and worry, "But will Ada get his son back?" he quietly wondered.
When Elrond reached his son's side, his father's heart ached to tenderly stroke his son's face and utter words of soothing comfort. Upon meeting Aragorn's wary gaze, he refrained from following his heart. Dropping to his knees he stilled his trembling hands, quieted his anguished heart and became the only persona Aragorn would not reject: Elrond the healer.
Pulling a vial from his pack, he met Aragorn's intent look. "This will ease your pain," he explained, breaking the silence that hung heavily over them with his melodious voice. Reading the refusal in his son's silver eyes, Elrond gave a small smile to the man, "Sorry to disappoint you but it is not my tea that you love so well."
At the teasing words, Aragorn could not help feeling a spark of that old reaction sputter to life in him and his mouth almost twitched into a smile. In compliance, he raised his head from the ground and reached for the vial.
Elrond slid a supporting hand behind Aragorn's head and, ignoring the man's grasping hand, put the vial to the man's lips and tipped it back slowly, allowing some of the portion to slip into the man's mouth.
Aragorn's face screwed up in displeasure and he croaked out, "I did not think it possible! That tastes even worse than your tea!"
A small chuckle emanated from Elrond. "This contains much the same ingredients as my tea. What it lacks is the herb that induces sleep, an herb that actually improves the tea's flavor."
"Talk about blessings in strange places," Aragorn countered, his face still scrunched up in distaste.
For a moment father and son looked at one another in silence, feeling as if the distance between them was not so great after all. Terrified of jeopardizing the progress with his son, Elrond tentatively asked, "May I check your stitches?"
It was on the tip of Aragorn's tongue to boldly reply, 'as if I have a choice' as he had done with Legolas but something in the elf's eyes stopped him, something vulnerable and wounded and desperate. Instead he merely nodded his head in acquiescence.
With infinite care, Elrond lifted his son's shirt to reveal the wrapped wounds. To his relief, no blood marred the pristinely white cloth bandages. His skilled hands pressed on the bandages only hard enough to determine that no stitches were torn in either of the wounds but he had felt his son stiffen in agony in reaction to his inspections. Not able to endure the increased look of pain upon his son's already too pale face, Elrond kept his focus firmly upon Aragorn's chest as he felt the exposed skin, satisfied that it was not burning with infection. Then slowly he reached his hand toward Aragorn's forehead, all the while fearing his son's reaction to such a touch.
Aragorn forced himself to not flinch away from Elrond's descending hand. As his father's hand gently came to rest on his forehead, Aragorn was stunned to feel as if every wrong could be set right in the world...that no harm could come to him, not when his father was with him. Desperately, Aragorn grasped onto the soothing comfort only his father had ever been able to offer to him. Valar, how long had it been since he had felt such protection, such comfort amid a world that sought to destroy him, body, heart and soul? It was long before Barion came into his life bearing both truth and lies. It was even longer than he had been the chieftain of the rangers. Closing his eyes, he wanted to drown in the comfort his elven father gave to him, too desperate to feel shame at needing the elf's presence in his life.
When Aragorn's eyes closed, Elrond was uncertain if Aragorn closed his eyes to better endure his touch or if what he had thought he had seen in his son's eyes was true. Did Aragorn enjoy his touch? Even cling to it with desperate need? Unwilling to withhold any possible comfort from his son, Elrond kept his hand upon his son's brow, trying to send all his love through the connection. When Aragorn made no move to dislodge his touch, Elrond began to lightly stroke Aragorn's sweat drenched locks of hair. In mere moments, Aragorn's breathing fell into a quiet rhythm of peaceful sleep.
Elrond found he could not force himself to leave his son's side, not when he had fought so hard to be allowed such an honor. So it was as the younger elves fed the horses and then retired to the fire in quiet conversation, Elrond sat contentedly at his son's side. With a feather light touch, his fingers traced the scar above the man's lip. Unbidden, thoughts of the other scars he had found upon his son's body bombarded his mind and he could not fight down the fear that assaulted him. As much as he needed to know how his son had acquired each wound, in equal parts he dreaded that the knowledge of the danger his son had faced would break down his secure barriers. How could he let the man go back to the life that brought him so very close to death? Especially when they were still at such odds?! If Aragorn should challenge Barion and lose... Elrond closed his eyes, choking on the sob that threatened to burst from him. No! He would not let Aragorn's life be cut short, not by Barion nor by the dangerous life of the rangers. If need be he would make the same difficult choice he had forced Legolas to make: He would choose to save Aragorn's life regardless of the consequences...even if those consequences would be his banishment from his son's heart.
Aragorn flinched slightly from the touch he had detected even in his sleep. With a sigh, Elrond pulled his hand back from the scar and rested his clenched hands in his lap. However, he could not force his eyes to leave his son's face, a face worn not so much by time as life. When Aragorn's head tossed to the left, Elrond knew a dream had stolen his son's peace. He was about to put a comforting hand upon Aragorn's forehead when the man surged from the ground into a sitting position, his eyes unfocused and his breathing heavy.
Startled by his son's reaction, Elrond softly called out in alarm, "Estel?!" Fearing the man's energy would fail him, he slipped his arm behind Aragorn's back to support him even as his son's eyes snapped to him in surprise.
Still plagued by the images and emotions of his dream, Aragorn could not speak for a moment. As it was, he had no need for speech.
Without prompting, Elrond put a waterskin in his son's hands and watched as Aragorn drank deeply and closed his eyes. Shooting a look behind him, Elrond saw shock humming through Elladan and Elrohir. However, he read not shock but pain and increased worry in Legolas's face. The prince had alluded to witnessing Aragorn's nightmares but Elrond had not appreciated the pain that had to have caused his human son's best friend... until now. Determining that none of the younger elf would move to Aragorn's side, fearing that they would startle the already shaken man, Elrond returned his attention to his son.
Opening his eyes, Aragorn's gaze rested on everything save his elven father as shame coated his soul. 'How long will you conjure up ghosts where there were none!? You allow Barion to torture you all over again every time you shut your eyes! You are stronger than this!' He jerked as Elrond's hand came to rest on his shoulder and his eyes flew automatically to his father's face. He feared what his father would say, the disappointed look that would darkened the elf's eyes. His fears were unwarranted. Concern and compassion alone shone in Elrond's eyes and the words he spoke were unexpected.
Perceptively knowing why his son had been torn from his peaceful sleep, Elrond restated his earlier deduction. "Barion put you in that tomb because he wanted you to ask Arathorn..to ask your father for a quick, merciful death." When no denials came from Aragorn, Elrond breathlessly asked, his heart in his throat. "Did you?"
Elladan, Elrohir and Legolas all ceased to breathe, waiting for Aragorn's reply.
Meeting Elrond's eyes, Aragorn qualified lowly, "Did I ask my father for death?"
Finding speech beyond his abilities, Elrond simply nodded, feeling as if his heart would never beat again as he awaited his son's answer.
Looking away from Elrond's piercing eyes, Aragorn looked forward, not seeing the forest before him but instead remembering the blinding darkness of the tomb. There was no pride in his voice as he choked out, "No. I asked instead for his aid in escaping the tomb." Without warning Aragorn began to stand and Elrond found himself instinctively aiding his son to his feet without protest. "It may have done some good," Aragorn added before he walked to his horse, leaving his stunned family and friend behind.
Watching his son walk away with his head high and his walk void of any evidence of his pain, Elrond was overwhelmed by indebtedness to Arathorn. 'I know you let him return to me when you could have called him to your side, Arathorn. I can never thank you enough for that...or for ever offering me the honor and pleasure of having him in my life...in my very heart. I will not fail you once more. I will not let him come again to the point of requesting death or salvation from you.'
A hand on his arm startled Elrond from his vow. Elladan stood before him searching his father's eyes for an explanation for the elder elf's trance. Reading his son's question, Elrond did not offer any words of explanation.
"Is he well enough to continue this journey?" Elladan demanded of his healer father, his expression showing that he would take what steps he must to protect his youngest brother if Elrond should say he should not venture forward.
"The rest did him some good," Elrond absently replied, his eyes upon Aragorn, Elrohir and Legolas as they all stood beside the horses. With satisfaction he watched as Elrohir saddled his brother's horse while Legolas effectively barred Aragorn's path to his horse. Turning to Elladan, Elrond saw the frustration in his son. "He will do no further harm to himself in reaching the ranger's camp."
Assured by his father's words, Elladan set himself to abandoning the camp. Efficiently he put out the fire, collected Aragorn's bedroll and blanket from the ground and stalked to his horse.
As Elrond approached his fellow travelers, he had to fight back a chuckle as he heard Aragorn's words to Legolas, who still obstinately stood between the man and his horse.
"Is this your subtle way of asking if I need help getting on my horse?" Aragorn sallied to his overprotective friend.
"No, this is my not so subtle way of telling you that the "only" way you are getting on your horse is with my help," Legolas countered, his determination as palpable as his affection for the man before him.
With ill grace, Aragorn ordered, "Well, help me on already."
Satisfied, Legolas stood aside, intently watched as the man stepped to his horse, ready to capture the man's arm if he should make the slightest move to try and mount unaided. To Legolas' relief and surprise, Aragorn halted beside his horse and turned an impatient glare upon his friend. Instantly, Legolas laced his hands together and bent over. Aragorn put his foot into Legolas's hands and, before he knew it, he was sitting on his horse's back with a very smugly smiling Legolas at his side.
Aragorn returned Legolas' smile for smile and then kicked his horse into motion, leaving the unmounted elves behind. He did not need to turn around to know all four elves were scrambling onto their horses. Soon he heard four horses gallop up to his side but he merely kept his eyes focused forward as if nothing out of the ordinary had occurred.
"Funny, Aragorn," Legolas grumbled, drawing even with his best friend.
"I thought so," Aragorn replied, a smile forming on his lips as he shot his friend a quick side ways glance. The Mirkwood elf could not keep the happy sparkle from his eyes. He was back where he belonged: at Aragorn's side.
"We can still reach the ranger's camp before night fall," Aragorn provided to his traveling companions.
The Rivendell elves accepted this news silently.
Having been rewarded again with Aragorn's friendship, Legolas hazarded asking a question he had not been able to answer on his own. "I do not understand how Barion could be welcomed by the rangers. Surely some of the rangers remembered him and would not have so readily forgiven him his betrayal to your father."
Struck by Legolas' innocence, Aragorn stiffened in his stance. "None live that served with Barion."
"But how is that possible? Are not most rangers Dunedain? Blessed with long life?" Legolas' disbelief and sadness resonated through his words. He almost flinched in pain when Aragorn's dark eyes came to rest on him.
"The race of the Dunedain is blessed with long life. The same can not be said of a life among the rangers during these dark times." Seeing denial in his friend's eyes, Aragorn clarified, "Dunedain fall just as quickly under the sword and succumb to illness like all other mortals, Legolas."
Whatever false security Legolas had gleamed from knowing Aragorn was of the Dunedain faded away with his friend's words. What good was the blessing of long life if Aragorn chose a life among the rangers, a life which forced him to fight off death nigh every day!?! "Why court death by being a ranger, Aragorn?"
The question caught Aragorn off guard and his horse skittered about nervously before Aragorn got him under control. No one had ever asked him that question before and it took him a moment of soul searching before he knew his own reasoning. "Being a ranger, aiding others, it somehow makes me feel whole, like I am exactly where I was meant to be. Among the rangers, it matters not what name I call myself, what destiny would bid me do, nor even what blood flows in my veins. They elected me chieftain before they knew I was Arathorn's son. I "earned" their respect, their love. I will not turn my back on them."
Legolas knew what Aragorn did not say, 'not even for you, Legolas, not even for my family.' "Every time we meet, you are some how changed, some how someone I admire more. Even when I think I can not be more proud of you, I find another surge of pride flow through me. I will not ask of you what you willingly will not give, I will not ask you to cease being the person I find myself in awe of time after time."
Gratitude and relief gleamed in Aragorn's eyes, "Thank you, mellon nin."
Hearing the conversation between his son and Legolas, Elrond's heart questioned, 'Could you pledge what Legolas has? You say that you value your son's life above his love for you but do you value his happiness above his life?' Silently he pleaded to any Valar that would give him ear, 'Do not force these choices upon me! Was I not punished enough by being separated from my parents, from Elros, from my wife? Do I also have to relinquish my mortal son to the whims of fate?! To the consequences of my own foolish decisions?'
No answers were forthcoming as the five travelers made their way steadily toward the ranger camp.
Aragorn led the others through the forest, expecting to come upon a posted guard for the ranger camp at any moment. Instead, as he rode deeper into the forest he heard a sound he knew only too well, the sound of battle. "The rangers are under attack!" he announced to his traveling companions as he drew his sword, grimaced at the pain the action ignited in his wounds, and kicked his horse into a run.
"Aragorn!" Legolas called after his friend before ordering his own horse to follow the ranger's reckless charge. The prince did not need to look behind him to know Elladan, Elrohir and Elrond were at his heels.
As his horse thundered under him, Aragorn soon saw the combatants that rimmed the ranger camp. Seeing a man ready to plunge his sword into the back of a ranger that was already engaged in battle with two other men, Aragorn kicked his horse into a faster run. Before the man could detect his approach, Aragorn rode between the man and the ranger, his sword slicing through the man's stomach. Without breaking his horse's stride, Aragorn turned his horse toward another congested area of fighting. As he rode into the thick of the battle, his sword made quick work of two more men before he halted in the midst of the storm of combat. Suddenly he found two men approaching him from both sides. Arching his sword to the right, Aragorn's blade caught the one man across the throat, killing him instantly, even as he kicked the man in the chest who attacked on his left. Barely stunned, the man on the left charged for Aragorn, intent on plunging his sword into the ranger's side. Aragorn was maneuvering his sword around to his left side to block the man's sword but suddenly he knew he would not be quick enough, his injuries were slowing him down ...fatally.
Suddenly an elven arrow pierced the man's chest, propelling him backward to the forest floor. Looking behind him, Aragorn saw Legolas approaching, his now empty bow in his hands. Aragorn gave a nod of thanks to his elven friend before he sought out more of the enemies that had set upon the rangers.
'Sweet Eru that was too close!' ran through Legolas' mind as he notched another arrow and took down another man in Aragorn's path. Kicking his horse forward, the prince followed closely behind his reckless human friend. Keeping one eye on the men attacking the rangers and the other on the ranger, Legolas waged his own battle, his arrows bringing down any men that neared his friend and occasionally tearing his protection from his friend long enough to take down any threats to his own person. After one such necessity, he looked up and cursed. He had lost sight of Aragorn.
Aragorn plunged his sword into a man's chest, withdrew it and parried a sword that would have skewered his leg. With a flick of his wrist, his parry turned into a brutal strike that put his sword into his attacker's shoulder. Kicking the man from his sword blade, Aragorn surveyed the battle and was relieved to see very few men still engaged in battle. Suddenly fury burned in him as he saw across the forest a face he would never forget, Barion. Kicking his horse into action, Aragorn tightened his grip upon his sword and steered his horse expertly through the remaining combatants.
As if he sensed his own danger, Barion's head snapped around to settle upon Aragorn. Shock radiated from the exranger but it soon morphed into a mask of hatred. Raising his sword before him in that gesture of honor he had given Aragorn before their personal battle, Barion turned around and ran through the woods.
Any understanding that Barion's past had garnered in Aragorn vanished as Aragorn was face to face again with the man who had left him to die in that tomb. Blinded by his emotions, he urged his horse into a faster run. The only thing Aragorn was aware of was his raging need to get his revenge upon Barion. He never sensed the arrow that sailed through the air, aimed for his heart.
TBC ))))))))
Hey I haven't given you a really good cliffie for a long time so I thought you deserved one!
Replies to Reviews:
Deana: Thanks for your compliment! You are right, Aragorn would feel guilty if Legolas got hurt when they were still at odds with one another. It's best to go into battle with their friendship intact...like they did before Helms' deep. Hope to hear from you again!
Someone Reading: I'm so moved that my writing garners such emotional responses from you! And I am honored to have surprised you!! I was hoping that everyone would be pleasantly surprised when Elrond joined the companions! I think there is so much depth to Elrond that it's a shame to simply see him as the elven lord, content to sit back and let the world come apart at the seams without stepping forward to fight against that fate. I really appreciate your thoughts on each and every chapter!
Elven Kitten: Thanks for your compliment and I am almost sorry for making you sad last chapter...almost. Keep taking good care of my favorite ranger!
Marbienl: I had to laugh when you were upset that Legolas and Aragorn's talk was interrupted by Elrond's arrival! Yes, Elrond is "starting to understand Aragorn's suffering" and even more so in this newest chapter. Do I hear a little sympathy in your "tone" for Barion?! See, I knew you'd catch onto Barion's true threat to Aragorn and his secret. I couldn't fit in Legolas' faded light but I did add the jab from the twins to Legolas regarding how bright his light was in this chapter for YOU! But I LOVE the fading Legolas scene you described and wondered if I could use it in another story I'm working on? I am so honored to be in your top three "favorite" favorite authors!!!!! That just makes my heart swell in happiness!!! Thank you!
Sielge: Whew! So glad you liked last chapter enough to not be mad at me! Now I've just have to hope you really liked this chapter since I made you wait sooooo long for it! Thanks for reviewing!!
Tailspin: I was touched at your persistence to review last chapter even though ffnet was giving you grief!!! I really would have missed your review! I can't thank you enough for saying "one thing I love about your writing is your ability to set the tone of a scene". I really struggle to remember to describe the situation /surroundings because I get so caught up in writing conversations! I sometimes write the conversations first and then have to fill in the 'background scenery". Me...draw out the angst?! Hmmm...definitely! It was perfect that you wanted a Legolas and Aragorn conversation because I almost didn't put in their reconciliation scene in this chapter. I just wasn't sure if anyone cared to "see" that scene, especially since it seemed to delay the action I thought everyone was patiently waiting to read. So you can thank yourself for the scene you read in this chapter! I always appreciate your thoughts so keep them coming!
Tychen: Elrond is pleased that he's gotten out of your doghouse!! You were right about Aragorn needing to forgive himself for treating Legolas so shabby and for accepting he is worthy of that friendship. Glad you see the importance of Barion's lie about never being bested by Arathorn. I think it gives Aragorn the renewed hope that he too can best the ex-ranger. I was so pleased that you liked my "shade of grey to the picture" when I revealed Barion's past. I figured that life is complicated, why should life in Middle Earth be any different, especially for someone as tortured by life as Aragorn. I like that you care enough about my villain to wonder if he will try for redemption! As for that question...I'm not telling (OK basically because I don't know yet but you've got me thinking!) Thanks always for your wonderful insight!
Grumpy: You're right, Elrond should have packed a lot of bandages! Glad you were happy to see the elven lord join the journey. Yes, Aragorn is 'starting to put his brain in gear" and see things more clearly and mend some of his bridges. Thank goodness because as always, that reckless human can use all the help he can get! If Barion didn't get that itchy feeling last chapter he sure will have it by the end of this chapter! Thanks for your wonderful review!
Lindahoyland: Thanks for your review! Hope you get a chance to read more of the story and though it hasn't contained that much action, I hope it still entertains you!
Lenneth: I just couldn't let Elrond behind to stew on his anger without trying to get some good old revenge now could I?! And you are right, Aragorn is softening toward Elrond. I think love tempers anger in varies degrees. Aragorn's view on hope is very dismal at the moment but since I'm a Christian, hope is something I strongly believe in so I really debated putting such a nasty spin on hope but in life you get down and bitter but in the end, hope, love and faith see us all through life's journeys...just like they will see Aragorn through this particular journey. I love reading your reviews and truly appreciate your support in this story!
Moonfire1: I'm proud of myself for getting YOU to feel even a smidgen of sympathy for Barion! I guess I always feel like there is "some" good in everyone even our enemies. As you saw in this chapter, Aragorn did have the courage to admit to Legolas that he had been wrong to treat him as he did. If I were Elrond, I would feel more guilty knowing that Arathorn was forced to ask Barion to protect Aragorn when he rejected his request and Barion did such a lousy job of it or, to be more accurate, no job of it at all! I always enjoy your reviews and appreciate all the time you've invested in this story!
Nefhiriel: Glad you liked Aragorn last chapter! And I love the father son interaction so I just had to force Elrond along on this journey! (Poor elf) I love that you think I've made Barion a "uniquely deep bad guy"!! I'm always afraid that people will find information about the villain boring, glad you don't feel that way! As for how many chapters there will be in this story... I wish I knew! I'm still writing this as I go! But I do know the key scenes and the ending so I am no way abandoning the story until it's over. Thanks so much for reviewing again!
Joslin: No need to apologize I'm just thrilled to know you're still reading the story and enjoying it!!!! I know, I've taken Elrond out of the normal atmosphere and I wasn't sure if I went too far by getting him out of his robes and into "casual" elf wear but I have to say I like the idea of him out adventuring with his sons. And yes, that stubborn ranger finally understood Legolas' true motives: friendship. It's always a pleasure hearing from you!
Beling2: Claps hands I got another gold star for sending Elrond on the journey!! I KNEW you'd appreciate that! And you are right about Elrond's motives, he will "stand by his sons, ALL of them" regardless of Aragorn's wishes. I think you captured Elladan and Elrohir's feelings exactly. They are in a really tough place, wanting to fix everything and yet that is out of their hands so they simply have to stand back, send up prayers and sneak in any support to Aragorn that they can. As for the "crack" in Aragorn's barriers, it's getting wider! I think he's realized that he could die if he faced Barion again in battle and that's got him thinking about what matters most in life. Those he loves and the ones that love him back. Your reviews are always a treat for me to read, mellon nin! Thank you!
No Big Deal: You thought Elrond's arrival was a "wicked cool surprise"!!! I LOVE that !! I was afraid you would all see that coming. Glad to know I'm not too predictable! And I've always been fascinated by Elrond so I'm always up for delving deeper into his character! In this chapter Aragorn makes his apology to Legolas and I truly thought about you when I reread it! I'm really hoping you don't think Aragorn's apology came off as "groveling crybaby attempt" because that's not how I intended it to sound! Please tell me what you think!!! I think Elrond's maturity has given him the clarity to see the "big picture" as you said but he's sketching it out quite well for the others..even Aragorn. Now you know I'm even more of a "wicked, wicked fanfic writer" because, not only did I make you wait longer than usual for this chapter but then I had the audacity to end this chapter on a true cliffie! (No, that is NOT remorse you hear in my words...why? Because you pegged me right...I am wicked!) Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts with me because it really helps me to make this a better story!
Et-spritus-sancti: I'm blushing here over your wonderful review! I'm so happy that you thought Barion's history was "very well crafted together"!!! I actually figured that out pretty early in this story but then I had to see where I could reveal it to Aragorn and you the reader. I love making things complicated for our hero! So relieved that the history made sense and, yes, even got some sympathy out of you for our villain! And I think Barion "was" a good guy before all that tragedy struck him. Ok now I'm even feeling some softening for the guy! Thanks again for being such a faithful reviewer!
Viggomaniac: Thank you so much for your terrific review! I have to say I was a little apprehensive about the chapter and everyone's feedback. Pleased that you liked all the emotional elements last chapter and I hope you liked those continuing themes this chapter. Yes, Barion is a real big threat to Aragorn. It kinda begs the question, how far would you go to protect the ones you love? You want MORE ranger angst?!?! (gosh I love you cause I'm always up for more ranger angst!) Well, there is no shortage of ranger angst in the upcoming chapters. I can't tell you this is going to be an angsty story and then short changed you, right? And you are right, if Aragorn were real...he'd be wishing for death if he had to endure everything us poor fanfic writers put him through! It truly is a good think for fiction! I love hearing from you and your take on the chapters!
Elvingirl3737: Please do not apologize for having a life, unlike me! But hey, I did enjoy the lick of your Estel so your guilt was not totally a waste...at least not for me!!! You had me smiling when you said the chapter was "bloody brilliant" Thank you!!! I was worried that Aragorn's feelings would seem to wishy washy and no one would like the chapter! Glad you liked Aragorn's revelation about Legolas' true motivates for his actions and Elrond's arrival. I like that you "still" want to kill Barion, especially after he almost got little Estel killed. I might feel some softening for the ex-ranger but I still agree with you, the man's gotta die! Snatches the honey dipped elven twins from your hands" Thanks they are yummy! Thanks for taking the time out of your real life to encourage me in writing this little tale! I really appreciate your reviews!
Eternal Rose: So now I know what a die hard Elrond fan you are! Glad I made you happy by having Elrond join the journey and I'm happy you approve of his entire. I wasn't quite sure what to have him wear but I thought maybe the simple outfit would serve his purposes best, besides he needed that warrior look. Since I promised a happy ending for this story, I thought I had better start making inroads into a reconciliation between the father and son. As for your catches, yup that was a run on sentence! Sorry! As for the horses, I am the total opposite from an expert but I've ridden enough times to be thrown off, bitten,kicked and almost become road kill. I either get the horse ready for a race or for the retirement stable but when that barn comes into sight, trust me, they know how to "push" their way through the other horses. After reading this chapter you know they did rest and reach the ranger's camp. And I think it's pretty safe to say the rangers know Barion is no longer an ally to them. The next chapter will reveal if the rangers knew Aragorn was alive and we will met up with Halbarad. I have to admit, I'm a little nervous that you won't like my take on Halbarad. If only Tolkein would have given me a little more background on the ranger! Guess we're stuck with our own interpretation. And I'm feeling better after being on vacation, thanks for caring about me! I also wish you a great week! Thanks again for all the help, insight and compliments you stuff in your reviews! I love 'em!
Thanks so much for reading this chapter and a special thanks to all who review!
Cheryl W.