Title: Opposites of the Same
Chapter Title: Lost Sibling 3/?
Authors: TrinityTheSheDevil and Karine
Rating: PG 13 (For Now)
Genre: [AU] Action/Suspense/etc
Disclaimer: Trin: Think it's safe to say that we own them yet?
Kar: ::watch as hundred of lawyers appear on the field:: I'd say not.
Trin: Alrighty then, I knew just what to do. ::snap finger::
::Field and lawyers on it are levitated from the ground, another snap, and they begin to get smaller and smaller, right until it's the size of a soccer ball::
::Trin throw "ball" at Kar:: :There, put that in The Void.
::Kar throw it back:: Uh uh, no way, why don't YOU put it in Hell.
Trin about to reply, get tap on shoulder, turn around, see hundred and hundred of lawyers: Oups…. FINE THEN, WE DO NOT OWN THEM ::sat on ground and sulk::
Summary: What if you found someone in the woods that you knew long ago but forgot about? What if this person was your twin, long thought dead? What if he was now jealous of the life you led while he was caught in the clutches of an evil man bent on your destruction? What if he took your place... would your loves one realize it before it's too late?
A/Ns:
Trin: ::Still maintaining my innocence in all of this:: Eh heh ... okay so it is MY fault this hasn't been updated! Comp died and all for three months or so ::winces:: but it is updated! See! ::points:: Now - as you should ALL know, this fic will contain torture. Abuse. Angst. Butt-cheeks-clenching-seat-emotions. ::Grins:: But that's all to come. For now ... well ::shrugs:: the uhm light? Fluffy stuff. As fluffy as we can get anyway. Btw ... ::points to Kar:: it's HER fault! ::runs::
Kar: ::Still maintaining my innocence AND blaming Trin for it:: And, for once, I'll agree with her, it IS her fault it hasn't been updated :D ::grins:: I'll also agree with the pains, torture, Kleenex alert that she mentioned, since it IS both of us writing this ya know ;) ::run after Trin, catch her, drag her in The Void:: ::hung Trin on dead tree and whistle for Melkor to come:: So, whose fault it is you said…::eg::
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Without even having to think about it, Legolas strung an arrow and let it fly. It met its mark with stunning accuracy. The orc about to end Aragorn's life fell onto the ground, amidst the foul creature's shocked companions.
Jumping from his hiding spot, Legolas entered the clearing with one thing in mind: kill all those that would kill us. His knives were a blur; an outsider may have seen only the occasional flash of blond hair or spray of blood, fast as Legolas was. The orcs converged on their new target as one. 'Good,' Legolas thought. 'I'd hate the odds being on my side for once.'
He wondered just where the little voice inside his head acquired the sarcastic tone. Ducking an oncoming blade, the elf felt that now was not the time to ponder trivial things - now was the time to focus on the battle. A battle which he realized he was quickly losing. When first he stared on in shock, the amount of orcs hadn't seemed quite that much. Now though, it looked as if they had tripled in size. And they were all intent on gutting him with their filthy blades.
Jumping backwards to avoid another swipe, Legolas didn't see the carcass of one of the felled beings behind him. He did, however, mentally wince as he tripped over it in an un-elf like fashion, and land upon the blood-covered ground.
Looking up, his eyes widened. An orc blade was heading straight for him and there was no time to move.
::::::::::::::
Somewhere, near the clearing where Legolas was about to loose his life in, a ranger was prowling around with stealth that would have made his elven brothers proud. The man was extremely observant and careful, since a small camp of rangers was counting on him to ensure that the place was safe for them to bed down for the night.
Suddenly his hearing - while not being as sharp as the elven ones he grew up with, but still better than normal - picked up something worrying. He set out as fast as was possible while still concealing himself, and his fear was confirmed when he saw orcs in a clearing ahead.
Normally, and what he taught to every young ranger, he should have ran back to camp to get reinforcements. However two things made him change his mind rather quickly. The fact that, one: the orcs were fighting, and two: they were fighting a very familiar elf.
Throwing all caution aside, Aragorn made his way to the clearing, only to stop short when he saw an orc about to kill his best friend.
Thinking quickly, the ranger took one of the many small daggers he had and threw it at the orc's head, sending a quick prayer to the Valar for his aim to be true. Either they had been listening or the ranger's aim had improved greatly over night, but it had the desired result. The orc fell dead, the dagger protruding from his forehead.
Unsheathing his sword, Aragorn launched himself at the orcs ready to do anything to save his friend's life.
::::::::::::::::
Legolas saw the orc fell and he shot to his feet, ready to resume the battle as now was not the time to wonder who had saved his life.
With renewed hope, Legolas and his mysterious savior took on the remaining orcs, and they soon came out victorious.
Turning around, Legolas was about to thank the man that had saved his life when his mouth fell open. Standing there seeming relatively unharmed, was Aragorn.
"Estel! But ... how ... ?" The elf sputtered, totally confused.
"I was patrolling near here when I heard the orcs, then I saw you about to die, so I rushed in." Aragorn replied, not sure why Legolas was confused.
"But, I saw you there, chained to the tree!"
"What…" Aragorn was cut off by a small moan of pain coming from someone in the clearing.
Both Legolas and he turned their heads sharply, only to see a man chained to a nearby tree, his head hung.
Aragorn quickly made his way to the stranger, and was about to say something when the man looked up. Aragorn nearly fainted from shock. There, hung up by his hands, was a mirror version of himself.
"Hello brother, long time no see." The man said.
Aragorn blinked, his jaw falling open. Legolas' brows furrowed, looking from Aragorn to the unknown stranger, and back to Aragorn.
"You have a brother?!" Legolas sputtered.
"No, I don't! At least, I don't think I do." Aragorn turned to the stranger. "Who are you?!"
The stranger grinned, and grimaced just as quickly. "Perhaps ... if you cut me loose, I would gladly tell you."
Jumping to his senses, Aragorn reached up and quickly loosed the man's bound hands, catching him as he fell. Blood dribbled from multiple wounds, dropping onto the green grass below. The tree itself seemed to mourn the fact that it had held the man while he was being tortured. Legolas gave it a reassuring pat and helped Aragorn to keep the man on his feet.
"Well," The man started. "I know who you are, Aragorn. My brother." The man smiled. "And I ... I am your younger twin - Arador."
"But how?!" Aragorn's mind was thrown into confusion. How could he have a brother ... a twin no less! and not know about it?! Elladan and Elrohir were there, at the battle! They had rescued him! Why had they not bothered to rescue his brother as well, if the man was truly who he said he was?!
"I will explain all in due time. For now..." The man winced. "It would bring me great pleasure to have the dirt removed from these wounds."
"Of course." Aragorn nodded. He ignored the looks Legolas was giving him. After all - he didn't know any more than the Mirkwood elf did.
They slowly progressed to a crop of trees, well away from the battle scene, and gently released Arador upon the ground. Aragorn then rummaged through his pack, looking for bandages and cleaning salve. It truly was a good thing that Elrond had pounded that lesson into him. "Always travel with medicine and bandages. You never know what could happen on the road, and you never know when someone might need to be treated - even yourself." He smiled fondly at the memory. At the time, he and Legolas had just arrived (or collapsed) on the courtyard of Rivendell. Neither had the foresight to take bandages or medicine with them on the supposedly short journey to the borders. Their wounds had quickly gained infections, as well as the poison that coated the blades they fought. Elrond had never looked so angry ... or worried.
Finding the items he sought, Aragorn pulled them out and motioned for Arador to remove his shirt. The young man did so, slowly peeling the blood-soaked cloth from his battered body. Aragorn winced and reminded himself to find a spare set of clothes to loan Arador.
"They did not know." Arador said softly. At Aragorn's questioning gaze, he continued. "The ones that rescued you. They did not realize I had not been captured by orcs. One of the women in the camp, an older woman, swept me out of harm's way when I ran from the tent. She managed to take me to a small village - where she collapsed and died from the wounds she sustained while escaping. The people there kept me, treated me as one of their own. I do not know much more than that. The memories I have are broken and scattered, fleeing from me when I try to grasp them." He shrugged.
Aragorn shook his head angrily, methodically cleaning the wounds and bandaging them. His brothers ... Elladan and Elrohir ... they should have known! They should have looked for him! Did they not even find proof of Arador's demise before they headed towards Rivendell?!
He must have radiated his anger more than he thought, as he felt Legolas gently lay his hand upon his shoulder. Aragorn turned, patting the hand to show he was alright. Or ... he would be. After he had found answers.
Finishing with the wounds, Aragorn stood abruptly and was called to the side by Legolas. Arador seemed content to just lie on the ground and rest for the moment.
"Aragorn ... how can you be sure this man is who he claims? We both know Sauron will do anything to have you dead. This could be an elaborate ruse to lure you away and have you killed or taken!" Legolas' eyes reflected the worry he felt.
"I know, mellon nin. That is why we are now going to the ranger camp. Halbarad will know if this man speaks truth or not."
"And if not?"
Aragorn's eyes darkened. "Then I pity the man for going along with Sauron. And I only hope he knows what his end will be, for I do."
Legolas nodded stiffly. "Alright then."
Walking back to Arador, Aragorn helped the man back to his feet. "Come, we invite you to the camp of my kin. There you will find warm food, cold drink, and we can ... catch up." Aragorn smiled.
"That sounds fine to me." Arador said, smiling also. 'That sounds, perfect.'
If Aragorn could only see what his brother was thinking at that moment, perhaps he would not have readily invited him to the ranger camp ...
:::::::::::::::::::
The three slowly made their way towards the camp, with Arador leaning heavily on the ranger and elf. A whirlwind of questions - each demanding an answer - were currently swirling in Aragorn's head. But they would have to wait ... getting to the camp safely was his first priority.
They finally made it, without interruption, which was a relief in itself and they were immediately spotted by Halbarad.
"There you are Aragorn, we were beginning to worry when you did not return." The ranger said, nodding to Legolas who inclined his head in return.
"After a short battle with orcs, I found someone that I hope you know, my friend." Aragorn said, while pointing at Arador beside him.
It was later said that Halbarad's reaction was very ... humorous. The older man's eyes widened to the size of mumakil feet. He pointed and stuttered for a moment, before regaining his composure. "A - Arador?! We ... we thought you to be dead!"
Aragorn stared, Legolas' jaw hit the dirt, and Arador, who no one was looking to at the moment, looked quite smug.
Halbarad led them to a nearby fire, and after everyone was settled down, he began to explain to the very shocked elf and man.
"Twenty five years ago, Gilrean gave birth to two identical twins. You Aragorn, are the eldest by about five minutes. You probably both saw the tattoo on your ankle, the seven stars." Halbarad waited until both had nodded before resuming. "Aragorn, yours has a crown on it, stating that you are the Heir since you are the first born. Not a lot of people knew that Gilrean had twins, only those who were on the camp the day of the Battle, twenty or so years ago. And not a lot of us lived after that battle."
"But, the twins must have knew about him, yet they did not look for him nor wondered about him!" Aragorn said angrily.
"I doubt that they knew Aragorn. They knew your father have had a son, they didn't know about Arador since he was to surprise them with that knowledge. After Gilrean died, Elladan and Elrohir left with you, and those who witnessed their departure assumed that Arador was dead, since he wasn't with them." Halbarad said, guilt evident in his eyes.
Aragorn wasn't about to let the matter die, but since he knew that Halbarad didn't know more, he'd have to wait until he went back to Rivendell for the twin's version.
"Come Legolas, we should let them be they have a lot to catch up to." Legolas nodded, and after one last glance at Aragorn, he followed Halbarad.
::::::::::::
Aragorn, in all actuality, could think of nothing to say. His now proven brother sat before him, a small smirk on his face. Yet after all his years ... of all his yearning in Rivendell as a child, for someone more like him ... he could not form words.
"So, my brother ... my twin. How has life been?" Arador asked quietly, interrupting the silence.
Aragorn shrugged. "Oh, you know, the usual. Battling orcs, saving innocents, constantly getting into trouble." He grinned. "A trait that I see my brothers didn't lie about being passed on through each generation."
Arador chuckled. "Yes, I seem to have that problem as well."
Finally, after he could take it no longer, Aragorn asked the question that burned on his lips. "Why ... why did you not seek me out sooner, if you knew me to be alive?"
Arador paused. "I ... well truthfully, I did not know you to be alive until just recently. I had thought you to have perished in the battle that I ... " His breath hitched. " ... escaped from. When I got word that you actually were alive - something I thought to be a rumor at the time - I quickly hastened to find you." He sighed. "Trust me, if I could have found you sooner, I would have. We have so much lost time to make up for. And ... what is this I hear? Brothers?" A look of longing appeared on Arador's face, but disappeared so quickly Aragorn felt he must have misread his brother.
"Yes. Elladan and Elrohir, the twin sons of Elrond. It was they, with their father - my ada - who adopted me when I was brought into Rivendell. They who protected me from harm ... and still do." Aragorn gave a sour look of annoyance. "They are like mother hens, each one of them."
Arador laughed lightly. "Well, be thankful you grew up in a loving household! Although I got much attention and love ... I was often swapped between families. It got rather tiring after a while, until I finally was able to survive on my own."
"I'm sorry." Aragorn said softly.
"It's okay, really. I've grown into the man I want to be, as I see you have. And one day, perhaps the Throne of Gondor will be yours to claim, brother." Arador smiled widely, giving a mock bow.
Aragorn scowled. "Don't you start also. Everyone else seems to think someday I may ascend to the level of King-hood, but that is something I do not wish. Ever."
"Ah, well. That is years away either way." Arador stood. "And now, my brother, I am sorry to depart but I fear I must. I was set to meet with a friend of mine, and he shall be worried if I am late."
A frown marred Aragorn's face. "So soon? We only just-" He was interrupted as Legolas burst from the nearby wood, frantically looking for him.
"Aragorn! Come, we must go. Wolves approach, and with them, the scent of orcs."
Aragorn sighed. "Duty calls then." He turned to his brother. "I shall find you soon. I will be in the small town of Bree, in two month's time. The Inn of the Prancing Pony, if you can meet me there."
Arador nodded. "I shall be there."
They embraced quickly. Aragorn felt his mind had still not gotten over the shock of the situation. He had a brother. A twin brother!
"Farewell, Arador. Be safe, and keep away from the orcs!"
"Yourself also, Aragorn! I seem to get the feeling that you are more trouble prone than I am!" He laughed, and then ran into the woods, heading in his own direction.
Aragorn sighed before following Legolas. He did not know what the future held ... but he knew at that moment, nothing could have made him happier.
:::::::::::::::::
Arador grinned and laughed to himself when he was well away from the ranger camp. Oh, how his brother was a sucker! He felt sorry that he was of the same bloodline of that filth.
Changing directions, he started to Rivendell. His orders were clear: take down everyone close to Aragorn, and then demolish him, securing the throne for himself. Simple enough.
He traveled for a few hours before he was stopped on his trek. A small sound alerted him to the presence of others. Hiding in a nearby bush, he watched as several elves rode out, laughing amongst themselves. He shook his head and emerged from the shrubbery. The elves stopped, surprise written all over their faces.
"Aragorn!" One cried.
"Hello." He nodded, not knowing their names.
"You are heading back home far sooner than expected, young Estel." One laughed. "Your ada shall be pleased."
"Yes, I bring to him news of great importance. I must not delay." Arador said, trying to look very hurried.
"Very well then. Quickly as you go, Aragorn. We are heading out to find the Prince of Mirkwood." The elf shook his head. "He is very late and Lord Elrond felt that he has gotten into trouble ... again." He shrugged. "I suppose you shall wish to accompany us? Elborith here can send your news on to Elrond, if you so wish it."
Arador shook his head. "No, this news I must deliver myself. Good luck on your search for the Prince."
The elves looked confused, but nodded. The news must be very delicate if Aragorn was going to put it above Legolas' health. "Very well. Farewell, Estel. We hope to see you again soon."
"Farewell." Arador said, watching them leave. He waited a few moments, then headed back on the trail, now traveling even faster to arrive at his destination.
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A day and a half later, Arador had finally arrived in Rivendell. He was not met with any resistance - most likely because he was the double of Aragorn. Striding up to the courtyard, he was met with none other than the Lord of Rivendell himself.
The Lord seemed surprise at his arrival. "Estel! My son, welcome home!"
Arador almost laughed with glee. "Ada. It's good to be home."
'Saviour your time alive, Estel!' Arador sneered. 'For that time will soon run out.'
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TBC ...........................
Trin: ::snickering:: HAH! See, I can do a good cliffie! It may not be heart stopping or anything but ::laughs:: THERE! ::smug grin::
Aragorn and Legolas, still in net above flames in Hell: ::whimpers:: Can we get down now?
Kar: ::absentmindely looks at Aragorn:: Sure! ::blinks, the net falls and they are swallowed by the flames:: ::looks at Trin:: Okay, I SUPPOSE you did a good job. I still say I can do a better cliffie on the NEXT chapter.
Trin: ::shrugs:: Hey, if you can then go for it. ::snaps finger, Aragorn and Legolas end up back in the net, looking like fried weenies::
Kar: ::grins evilly:: I do believe I will!
Trin and Kar: ::looks at angry readers who have managed to sneak into Hell:::: ...........................
Trin: Uh ... er ... right then ::grabs Aragorn and Legolas, legs it to the Black Pearl floating nearby, jumps in, flies away::
Kar:: .............. TRIN! WAIT A MINUTE! ::blinks and lands on the deck of the Black Pearl:: Evil ::beep:: you left me there!
Trin: ::looks innocent:: I did?
Kar: ::glare:: You shall pay ...
Trin: GAH! ::runs::
Reviews -
leggylover03 - LMAO! We did not start the pain and end it! We ... started it and paused it. ::grins:: And the pain/snot slinging is coming up, don't worry, mwahahahahahaha!
tmelange - Thanks! :D
Firniswin - ::points:: Blame Kar. She's usually the root of it all. ::Snickers:: And yes, poor Arador! Although, you may not say that now ... but anyway. Hahahaha.
Night-Owl123 - Okay, haha.
grumpy - Yeah, Arador is pretty much the bad guy now. LOL. Even though he looks like our dear Aragorn. ::G:: Glad you like it!
Kandice - Yeah, two is better than one. ::snicker:: ::ahem:: Thanks!
Cigarettes and Leather - Sadi de Torte? Not familiar with the term. ;-)
Estel Elven Enchantress - No reply?? Ack. Fanfiction may have ate it when I clicked the review page. SOrry. ::Sends elven clones to make up for it:: Thanks bunches!
Purplefluffychainsaw - Evil is our middle names! Hehehehehe. And thanks a bunch, so glad you think so! :D
Hiei-Rulez - LMAO! "Woman"? There are two of us here. >:) LOL. ::stares at the black flames:: .... O.o ... right then, ::escapes while that is still possible::
Roz - Thanks! (And from Trin: I'm still catching up on the fanfiction I missed and I'm trying to get to your fic next, haha.) And LOL, did not know how to spell "crikey". Not australian myself, only a southerner from USA, with no cable TV access and therefore not able to watch The Crocodile Hunter. ::LOL:: Thanks though!
Elwen the Insane Elf - The next chapter is ... here. Although the "next chapter" is now THIS chapter and the NEXT chapter isn't anywhere. Confusing huh? LMAO. And ::sniff!!!:: how could you side with Kar?!?!?!?! :-P LMAO!
Reviews = welcome. We'll update as soon as humanly possible. ::g::
Chapter Title: Lost Sibling 3/?
Authors: TrinityTheSheDevil and Karine
Rating: PG 13 (For Now)
Genre: [AU] Action/Suspense/etc
Disclaimer: Trin: Think it's safe to say that we own them yet?
Kar: ::watch as hundred of lawyers appear on the field:: I'd say not.
Trin: Alrighty then, I knew just what to do. ::snap finger::
::Field and lawyers on it are levitated from the ground, another snap, and they begin to get smaller and smaller, right until it's the size of a soccer ball::
::Trin throw "ball" at Kar:: :There, put that in The Void.
::Kar throw it back:: Uh uh, no way, why don't YOU put it in Hell.
Trin about to reply, get tap on shoulder, turn around, see hundred and hundred of lawyers: Oups…. FINE THEN, WE DO NOT OWN THEM ::sat on ground and sulk::
Summary: What if you found someone in the woods that you knew long ago but forgot about? What if this person was your twin, long thought dead? What if he was now jealous of the life you led while he was caught in the clutches of an evil man bent on your destruction? What if he took your place... would your loves one realize it before it's too late?
A/Ns:
Trin: ::Still maintaining my innocence in all of this:: Eh heh ... okay so it is MY fault this hasn't been updated! Comp died and all for three months or so ::winces:: but it is updated! See! ::points:: Now - as you should ALL know, this fic will contain torture. Abuse. Angst. Butt-cheeks-clenching-seat-emotions. ::Grins:: But that's all to come. For now ... well ::shrugs:: the uhm light? Fluffy stuff. As fluffy as we can get anyway. Btw ... ::points to Kar:: it's HER fault! ::runs::
Kar: ::Still maintaining my innocence AND blaming Trin for it:: And, for once, I'll agree with her, it IS her fault it hasn't been updated :D ::grins:: I'll also agree with the pains, torture, Kleenex alert that she mentioned, since it IS both of us writing this ya know ;) ::run after Trin, catch her, drag her in The Void:: ::hung Trin on dead tree and whistle for Melkor to come:: So, whose fault it is you said…::eg::
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Without even having to think about it, Legolas strung an arrow and let it fly. It met its mark with stunning accuracy. The orc about to end Aragorn's life fell onto the ground, amidst the foul creature's shocked companions.
Jumping from his hiding spot, Legolas entered the clearing with one thing in mind: kill all those that would kill us. His knives were a blur; an outsider may have seen only the occasional flash of blond hair or spray of blood, fast as Legolas was. The orcs converged on their new target as one. 'Good,' Legolas thought. 'I'd hate the odds being on my side for once.'
He wondered just where the little voice inside his head acquired the sarcastic tone. Ducking an oncoming blade, the elf felt that now was not the time to ponder trivial things - now was the time to focus on the battle. A battle which he realized he was quickly losing. When first he stared on in shock, the amount of orcs hadn't seemed quite that much. Now though, it looked as if they had tripled in size. And they were all intent on gutting him with their filthy blades.
Jumping backwards to avoid another swipe, Legolas didn't see the carcass of one of the felled beings behind him. He did, however, mentally wince as he tripped over it in an un-elf like fashion, and land upon the blood-covered ground.
Looking up, his eyes widened. An orc blade was heading straight for him and there was no time to move.
::::::::::::::
Somewhere, near the clearing where Legolas was about to loose his life in, a ranger was prowling around with stealth that would have made his elven brothers proud. The man was extremely observant and careful, since a small camp of rangers was counting on him to ensure that the place was safe for them to bed down for the night.
Suddenly his hearing - while not being as sharp as the elven ones he grew up with, but still better than normal - picked up something worrying. He set out as fast as was possible while still concealing himself, and his fear was confirmed when he saw orcs in a clearing ahead.
Normally, and what he taught to every young ranger, he should have ran back to camp to get reinforcements. However two things made him change his mind rather quickly. The fact that, one: the orcs were fighting, and two: they were fighting a very familiar elf.
Throwing all caution aside, Aragorn made his way to the clearing, only to stop short when he saw an orc about to kill his best friend.
Thinking quickly, the ranger took one of the many small daggers he had and threw it at the orc's head, sending a quick prayer to the Valar for his aim to be true. Either they had been listening or the ranger's aim had improved greatly over night, but it had the desired result. The orc fell dead, the dagger protruding from his forehead.
Unsheathing his sword, Aragorn launched himself at the orcs ready to do anything to save his friend's life.
::::::::::::::::
Legolas saw the orc fell and he shot to his feet, ready to resume the battle as now was not the time to wonder who had saved his life.
With renewed hope, Legolas and his mysterious savior took on the remaining orcs, and they soon came out victorious.
Turning around, Legolas was about to thank the man that had saved his life when his mouth fell open. Standing there seeming relatively unharmed, was Aragorn.
"Estel! But ... how ... ?" The elf sputtered, totally confused.
"I was patrolling near here when I heard the orcs, then I saw you about to die, so I rushed in." Aragorn replied, not sure why Legolas was confused.
"But, I saw you there, chained to the tree!"
"What…" Aragorn was cut off by a small moan of pain coming from someone in the clearing.
Both Legolas and he turned their heads sharply, only to see a man chained to a nearby tree, his head hung.
Aragorn quickly made his way to the stranger, and was about to say something when the man looked up. Aragorn nearly fainted from shock. There, hung up by his hands, was a mirror version of himself.
"Hello brother, long time no see." The man said.
Aragorn blinked, his jaw falling open. Legolas' brows furrowed, looking from Aragorn to the unknown stranger, and back to Aragorn.
"You have a brother?!" Legolas sputtered.
"No, I don't! At least, I don't think I do." Aragorn turned to the stranger. "Who are you?!"
The stranger grinned, and grimaced just as quickly. "Perhaps ... if you cut me loose, I would gladly tell you."
Jumping to his senses, Aragorn reached up and quickly loosed the man's bound hands, catching him as he fell. Blood dribbled from multiple wounds, dropping onto the green grass below. The tree itself seemed to mourn the fact that it had held the man while he was being tortured. Legolas gave it a reassuring pat and helped Aragorn to keep the man on his feet.
"Well," The man started. "I know who you are, Aragorn. My brother." The man smiled. "And I ... I am your younger twin - Arador."
"But how?!" Aragorn's mind was thrown into confusion. How could he have a brother ... a twin no less! and not know about it?! Elladan and Elrohir were there, at the battle! They had rescued him! Why had they not bothered to rescue his brother as well, if the man was truly who he said he was?!
"I will explain all in due time. For now..." The man winced. "It would bring me great pleasure to have the dirt removed from these wounds."
"Of course." Aragorn nodded. He ignored the looks Legolas was giving him. After all - he didn't know any more than the Mirkwood elf did.
They slowly progressed to a crop of trees, well away from the battle scene, and gently released Arador upon the ground. Aragorn then rummaged through his pack, looking for bandages and cleaning salve. It truly was a good thing that Elrond had pounded that lesson into him. "Always travel with medicine and bandages. You never know what could happen on the road, and you never know when someone might need to be treated - even yourself." He smiled fondly at the memory. At the time, he and Legolas had just arrived (or collapsed) on the courtyard of Rivendell. Neither had the foresight to take bandages or medicine with them on the supposedly short journey to the borders. Their wounds had quickly gained infections, as well as the poison that coated the blades they fought. Elrond had never looked so angry ... or worried.
Finding the items he sought, Aragorn pulled them out and motioned for Arador to remove his shirt. The young man did so, slowly peeling the blood-soaked cloth from his battered body. Aragorn winced and reminded himself to find a spare set of clothes to loan Arador.
"They did not know." Arador said softly. At Aragorn's questioning gaze, he continued. "The ones that rescued you. They did not realize I had not been captured by orcs. One of the women in the camp, an older woman, swept me out of harm's way when I ran from the tent. She managed to take me to a small village - where she collapsed and died from the wounds she sustained while escaping. The people there kept me, treated me as one of their own. I do not know much more than that. The memories I have are broken and scattered, fleeing from me when I try to grasp them." He shrugged.
Aragorn shook his head angrily, methodically cleaning the wounds and bandaging them. His brothers ... Elladan and Elrohir ... they should have known! They should have looked for him! Did they not even find proof of Arador's demise before they headed towards Rivendell?!
He must have radiated his anger more than he thought, as he felt Legolas gently lay his hand upon his shoulder. Aragorn turned, patting the hand to show he was alright. Or ... he would be. After he had found answers.
Finishing with the wounds, Aragorn stood abruptly and was called to the side by Legolas. Arador seemed content to just lie on the ground and rest for the moment.
"Aragorn ... how can you be sure this man is who he claims? We both know Sauron will do anything to have you dead. This could be an elaborate ruse to lure you away and have you killed or taken!" Legolas' eyes reflected the worry he felt.
"I know, mellon nin. That is why we are now going to the ranger camp. Halbarad will know if this man speaks truth or not."
"And if not?"
Aragorn's eyes darkened. "Then I pity the man for going along with Sauron. And I only hope he knows what his end will be, for I do."
Legolas nodded stiffly. "Alright then."
Walking back to Arador, Aragorn helped the man back to his feet. "Come, we invite you to the camp of my kin. There you will find warm food, cold drink, and we can ... catch up." Aragorn smiled.
"That sounds fine to me." Arador said, smiling also. 'That sounds, perfect.'
If Aragorn could only see what his brother was thinking at that moment, perhaps he would not have readily invited him to the ranger camp ...
:::::::::::::::::::
The three slowly made their way towards the camp, with Arador leaning heavily on the ranger and elf. A whirlwind of questions - each demanding an answer - were currently swirling in Aragorn's head. But they would have to wait ... getting to the camp safely was his first priority.
They finally made it, without interruption, which was a relief in itself and they were immediately spotted by Halbarad.
"There you are Aragorn, we were beginning to worry when you did not return." The ranger said, nodding to Legolas who inclined his head in return.
"After a short battle with orcs, I found someone that I hope you know, my friend." Aragorn said, while pointing at Arador beside him.
It was later said that Halbarad's reaction was very ... humorous. The older man's eyes widened to the size of mumakil feet. He pointed and stuttered for a moment, before regaining his composure. "A - Arador?! We ... we thought you to be dead!"
Aragorn stared, Legolas' jaw hit the dirt, and Arador, who no one was looking to at the moment, looked quite smug.
Halbarad led them to a nearby fire, and after everyone was settled down, he began to explain to the very shocked elf and man.
"Twenty five years ago, Gilrean gave birth to two identical twins. You Aragorn, are the eldest by about five minutes. You probably both saw the tattoo on your ankle, the seven stars." Halbarad waited until both had nodded before resuming. "Aragorn, yours has a crown on it, stating that you are the Heir since you are the first born. Not a lot of people knew that Gilrean had twins, only those who were on the camp the day of the Battle, twenty or so years ago. And not a lot of us lived after that battle."
"But, the twins must have knew about him, yet they did not look for him nor wondered about him!" Aragorn said angrily.
"I doubt that they knew Aragorn. They knew your father have had a son, they didn't know about Arador since he was to surprise them with that knowledge. After Gilrean died, Elladan and Elrohir left with you, and those who witnessed their departure assumed that Arador was dead, since he wasn't with them." Halbarad said, guilt evident in his eyes.
Aragorn wasn't about to let the matter die, but since he knew that Halbarad didn't know more, he'd have to wait until he went back to Rivendell for the twin's version.
"Come Legolas, we should let them be they have a lot to catch up to." Legolas nodded, and after one last glance at Aragorn, he followed Halbarad.
::::::::::::
Aragorn, in all actuality, could think of nothing to say. His now proven brother sat before him, a small smirk on his face. Yet after all his years ... of all his yearning in Rivendell as a child, for someone more like him ... he could not form words.
"So, my brother ... my twin. How has life been?" Arador asked quietly, interrupting the silence.
Aragorn shrugged. "Oh, you know, the usual. Battling orcs, saving innocents, constantly getting into trouble." He grinned. "A trait that I see my brothers didn't lie about being passed on through each generation."
Arador chuckled. "Yes, I seem to have that problem as well."
Finally, after he could take it no longer, Aragorn asked the question that burned on his lips. "Why ... why did you not seek me out sooner, if you knew me to be alive?"
Arador paused. "I ... well truthfully, I did not know you to be alive until just recently. I had thought you to have perished in the battle that I ... " His breath hitched. " ... escaped from. When I got word that you actually were alive - something I thought to be a rumor at the time - I quickly hastened to find you." He sighed. "Trust me, if I could have found you sooner, I would have. We have so much lost time to make up for. And ... what is this I hear? Brothers?" A look of longing appeared on Arador's face, but disappeared so quickly Aragorn felt he must have misread his brother.
"Yes. Elladan and Elrohir, the twin sons of Elrond. It was they, with their father - my ada - who adopted me when I was brought into Rivendell. They who protected me from harm ... and still do." Aragorn gave a sour look of annoyance. "They are like mother hens, each one of them."
Arador laughed lightly. "Well, be thankful you grew up in a loving household! Although I got much attention and love ... I was often swapped between families. It got rather tiring after a while, until I finally was able to survive on my own."
"I'm sorry." Aragorn said softly.
"It's okay, really. I've grown into the man I want to be, as I see you have. And one day, perhaps the Throne of Gondor will be yours to claim, brother." Arador smiled widely, giving a mock bow.
Aragorn scowled. "Don't you start also. Everyone else seems to think someday I may ascend to the level of King-hood, but that is something I do not wish. Ever."
"Ah, well. That is years away either way." Arador stood. "And now, my brother, I am sorry to depart but I fear I must. I was set to meet with a friend of mine, and he shall be worried if I am late."
A frown marred Aragorn's face. "So soon? We only just-" He was interrupted as Legolas burst from the nearby wood, frantically looking for him.
"Aragorn! Come, we must go. Wolves approach, and with them, the scent of orcs."
Aragorn sighed. "Duty calls then." He turned to his brother. "I shall find you soon. I will be in the small town of Bree, in two month's time. The Inn of the Prancing Pony, if you can meet me there."
Arador nodded. "I shall be there."
They embraced quickly. Aragorn felt his mind had still not gotten over the shock of the situation. He had a brother. A twin brother!
"Farewell, Arador. Be safe, and keep away from the orcs!"
"Yourself also, Aragorn! I seem to get the feeling that you are more trouble prone than I am!" He laughed, and then ran into the woods, heading in his own direction.
Aragorn sighed before following Legolas. He did not know what the future held ... but he knew at that moment, nothing could have made him happier.
:::::::::::::::::
Arador grinned and laughed to himself when he was well away from the ranger camp. Oh, how his brother was a sucker! He felt sorry that he was of the same bloodline of that filth.
Changing directions, he started to Rivendell. His orders were clear: take down everyone close to Aragorn, and then demolish him, securing the throne for himself. Simple enough.
He traveled for a few hours before he was stopped on his trek. A small sound alerted him to the presence of others. Hiding in a nearby bush, he watched as several elves rode out, laughing amongst themselves. He shook his head and emerged from the shrubbery. The elves stopped, surprise written all over their faces.
"Aragorn!" One cried.
"Hello." He nodded, not knowing their names.
"You are heading back home far sooner than expected, young Estel." One laughed. "Your ada shall be pleased."
"Yes, I bring to him news of great importance. I must not delay." Arador said, trying to look very hurried.
"Very well then. Quickly as you go, Aragorn. We are heading out to find the Prince of Mirkwood." The elf shook his head. "He is very late and Lord Elrond felt that he has gotten into trouble ... again." He shrugged. "I suppose you shall wish to accompany us? Elborith here can send your news on to Elrond, if you so wish it."
Arador shook his head. "No, this news I must deliver myself. Good luck on your search for the Prince."
The elves looked confused, but nodded. The news must be very delicate if Aragorn was going to put it above Legolas' health. "Very well. Farewell, Estel. We hope to see you again soon."
"Farewell." Arador said, watching them leave. He waited a few moments, then headed back on the trail, now traveling even faster to arrive at his destination.
-------
A day and a half later, Arador had finally arrived in Rivendell. He was not met with any resistance - most likely because he was the double of Aragorn. Striding up to the courtyard, he was met with none other than the Lord of Rivendell himself.
The Lord seemed surprise at his arrival. "Estel! My son, welcome home!"
Arador almost laughed with glee. "Ada. It's good to be home."
'Saviour your time alive, Estel!' Arador sneered. 'For that time will soon run out.'
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TBC ...........................
Trin: ::snickering:: HAH! See, I can do a good cliffie! It may not be heart stopping or anything but ::laughs:: THERE! ::smug grin::
Aragorn and Legolas, still in net above flames in Hell: ::whimpers:: Can we get down now?
Kar: ::absentmindely looks at Aragorn:: Sure! ::blinks, the net falls and they are swallowed by the flames:: ::looks at Trin:: Okay, I SUPPOSE you did a good job. I still say I can do a better cliffie on the NEXT chapter.
Trin: ::shrugs:: Hey, if you can then go for it. ::snaps finger, Aragorn and Legolas end up back in the net, looking like fried weenies::
Kar: ::grins evilly:: I do believe I will!
Trin and Kar: ::looks at angry readers who have managed to sneak into Hell:::: ...........................
Trin: Uh ... er ... right then ::grabs Aragorn and Legolas, legs it to the Black Pearl floating nearby, jumps in, flies away::
Kar:: .............. TRIN! WAIT A MINUTE! ::blinks and lands on the deck of the Black Pearl:: Evil ::beep:: you left me there!
Trin: ::looks innocent:: I did?
Kar: ::glare:: You shall pay ...
Trin: GAH! ::runs::
Reviews -
leggylover03 - LMAO! We did not start the pain and end it! We ... started it and paused it. ::grins:: And the pain/snot slinging is coming up, don't worry, mwahahahahahaha!
tmelange - Thanks! :D
Firniswin - ::points:: Blame Kar. She's usually the root of it all. ::Snickers:: And yes, poor Arador! Although, you may not say that now ... but anyway. Hahahaha.
Night-Owl123 - Okay, haha.
grumpy - Yeah, Arador is pretty much the bad guy now. LOL. Even though he looks like our dear Aragorn. ::G:: Glad you like it!
Kandice - Yeah, two is better than one. ::snicker:: ::ahem:: Thanks!
Cigarettes and Leather - Sadi de Torte? Not familiar with the term. ;-)
Estel Elven Enchantress - No reply?? Ack. Fanfiction may have ate it when I clicked the review page. SOrry. ::Sends elven clones to make up for it:: Thanks bunches!
Purplefluffychainsaw - Evil is our middle names! Hehehehehe. And thanks a bunch, so glad you think so! :D
Hiei-Rulez - LMAO! "Woman"? There are two of us here. >:) LOL. ::stares at the black flames:: .... O.o ... right then, ::escapes while that is still possible::
Roz - Thanks! (And from Trin: I'm still catching up on the fanfiction I missed and I'm trying to get to your fic next, haha.) And LOL, did not know how to spell "crikey". Not australian myself, only a southerner from USA, with no cable TV access and therefore not able to watch The Crocodile Hunter. ::LOL:: Thanks though!
Elwen the Insane Elf - The next chapter is ... here. Although the "next chapter" is now THIS chapter and the NEXT chapter isn't anywhere. Confusing huh? LMAO. And ::sniff!!!:: how could you side with Kar?!?!?!?! :-P LMAO!
Reviews = welcome. We'll update as soon as humanly possible. ::g::