Rated: PG-13 (just to be safe)
Disclaimer: Everything/one that is familiar to you in this story belongs to Tolkien, Peter Jackson, and New Line Cinema. I don't own it and I don't make any claims.
Summary: A few years before the fellowship, Legolas was taken and tortured brutally at the hands of men. At the Council of Elrond, Aragorn sees his dear friend once more, but Legolas is no longer the elf he knew. Can Aragorn help him heal? And most importantly, can he make Legolas trust him again? Aragorn POV
Please note that this is a completely non-slash story. There are intimate moments between the characters and I might on occasion use the word 'love', but it is strictly brotherly friendship. I would have named the story "The Touch of a Friend" to clarify that better, but the title was already taken. So for those who enjoy slash, I'm sorry but this is not that kind of story, and for those who are like me and don't like it, you can relax and stop expecting the unexpected.
The journey to Rivendell was neither easy nor short, but with Frodo in Arwen's hands and the Wraiths without their steeds, the haste has somewhat lessened. My father sent word to me that Frodo was no longer in mortal danger and the second I told the hobbits they let their worried features fall and it was then that I became acquainted with the lightheartedness of the race. I watched with amusement the awe on their faces as soon as we entered through the gates of Rivendell. Sam, as a loyal friend, quickly overcame this and demanded that he be taken to Frodo. I couldn't help but smile at his devotion to his master and I nodded to the Elves that greeted us to take him to the healing ward. While Merry and Pippin went off in excitement to explore, I allowed myself a brief respite. Most likely my father- Lord Elrond- will have something planned for the days to follow concerning the Ring, but for now, while Frodo regained his strength, I would take comfort in this sanctuary where I was raised. I took in a deep breath and closed my eyes, savoring the familiar feel of home and for a few minutes I forgot the peril that brought me here in the first place.
Finally opening my eyes, I decided to walk around the gardens. Nothing seemed to change since I last left; the elves still wandered about their realm in peace, despite the darkness of Mordor that was now spreading over Middle-earth. I greeted each of them that passed me and whom I passed. Then suddenly in the distance I saw a face that I did not expect see but nonetheless joy filled my heart. Smiling, I raised my hand in welcome and treaded over to a place by the trees where I saw the person of my engrossment talking to my brothers.
"Legolas!" I called to my friend. I had not seen him for over twenty years. When Gandalf and I captured Gollum, we brought him to Legolas' home in Mirkwood, but when I asked about him I was told that he was away from the palace and unfortunately I was in too much of a haste to wait for his arrival.
Legolas turned smiling towards the direction from which he heard his name, but when he saw me his smile disappeared and he showed a surprising look of anger and fear. However I disregarded it and came up to him laughing with open arms.
"Mae govannen, Legolas! Oh, mellon nin, it sure is good to see you again!"
I made a motion to embrace him, but he quickly moved back, away from me. He placed his right arm across his chest and bowed slightly in an elvish greeting that was usually done between attendants or even strangers; never between close friends.
"Greetings, Aragorn son of Arathorn, Captain of the Dunadain," he said firmly, "indeed, it has been long."
I cocked my head in confusion at his sudden gesture. Such formality has not been used between us since the day we met. Elladan and Elrohir exchanged uneasy glances that I did not miss and moved protectively in front of Legolas.
"It is good to see you again, brother," said Elrohir.
"Indeed," Elladan replied and he walked up to me, turning me away from the other two and leading me in the direction of the house. "Come, we have much to discuss. Father has been waiting for you and I'm sure you want to see Frodo."
Despite my protest, Elladan managed to lead me away and when I turned my head in Legolas' direction, he looked away from me. I did not see him again for the rest of the day.
Tbc…
Sorry for the shortness of this chapter, but I'm having terrible gaps between scenes and I knew that if I don't post now then there won't be any motivation to write those gaps faster. Please review.
Ella