This chapter and the few others that will be like it is the second reason for my "M" rating, the first being Saeorii's abuse in the beginning. Will not get graphic or even very detailed but better safe than sorry. Enjoy!
Chapter sixteen: Come Home
The day had been long and Aragorn was weary for the two weeks since his return to the White City had been filled with endless councils as he was told what had passed during his absence. The day he had spent in the forest with his wife seemed long ago indeed, as did the evening they had spent with Glorfindel upon his unexpected arrival. He knew with a heavy heart that things in his council would not change until some were removed from it and despite their animosity towards him, he felt reluctant to do so, although he knew he must for the good of his people. Many hours in the past days had been spent with Ilterrin who had become his confidant in such matters for he agreed with his decision that his council must be remade.
Tomorrow a special council was to be held, early in the morning at first light for the rest of the day would be spent preparing for a great celebration that had been planned for Gondor during his absence. Much food and many people had journeyed from the farthest reaches of Middle-earth although he felt greatly the absence of Eomer and Eowyn for they remained in Rohan, still angry with him for his previous misdeeds. He could not blame them.
He sighed deeply, feeling very lonely as he watched the horizon turn brilliant with the light of the setting sun, casting a golden glow upon the walls and floor. He could hear the voice of the people of his city far below him and the sound of the birds above him. He longed to be away from here and he looked once more to the letter that had been the purpose of Glorfindel's visit. He had read it so many times that the edges were worn and the words repeated themselves in his mind.
Estel,
I have laboured many hours over the writing of this letter and am still unsure of how to say what I wish. It has been far too long since last I saw you and my concern for your well being is foremost in my thoughts at all times. I fear that you shall be lost to me as is Arwen; I fear that I shall lose you to the shadow of her death and that I shall never again see your smile or hear your laughter before the time comes that I must leave these shores. I know of the pain that you feel for she was my own flesh and blood but I shall rest easy knowing that she has been taken to Mandos Halls where no harm shall ever threaten her again. This too must be your comfort for if you do not find comfort in something I fear that I shall lose you as well. Please, return to me once more that I should not have to mourn the death of you also. Know you could never do anything or become anyone that would make me love you any less. Please, come home, ion nin. I love you,
Ada
The last words were slightly smudged with his father's tears and felt his own as he set down the letter and looked out the great windows behind him but not even his father's reassurances could ease the fear he felt when he thought of making the journey to his realm. The sun's light began to dim and his thoughts wound round in circles and his body tensed. The words of Glorfindel resounded in his mind.
"I wish that you would come with me, mellon nin, for my heart protests my leaving," the elf spoke softly as they stood outside the gates to the White City. "I would wait for you."He shook his head reluctantly.
"Nay, I cannot venture to that sacred realm yet, but know that I shall come someday," he answered, trying to keep his voice light.
"And I shall welcome you with open arms, as will all who still dwell there. You are most dear to my heart, Estel," said he and Aragorn found himself drawn into the elf's hearty embrace.
"As are you to mine, my friend. I have missed you and will long for the day when you shall come to me once again," he answered, his voice thick with tears for his answer had told the elf that it would be long indeed before he would come to Rivendell and he saw the unspoken sorrow in the eyes of his friend and wished that he could take his words back. He stood silently watching as his old friend mounted and rode off across the Fields of Pelennor to distant lands that he now longed for more than he ever remembered.
He was startled by a light knock on the door and called for whoever wished to enter. He expected Ilterrin or one of the councillors but his heart warmed as he saw that it was she.
She walked noiselessly towards him, smiling sadly as she leaned against the desk beside him that was no less cluttered than when he had come here early that afternoon. Her presence was soothing but his mind was still weighted with the task of the next day, his heart pained by the letter that was once more in his hand.
"What troubles you this night?" she questioned quietly and he was amazed once more at her ability to offer him comfort when he needed it most.
"Nothing, now that you are with me," he replied neatly evading her question as he leaned forward and winced as his taught muscles strongly protested the movement.
"You will not get out of this that easily," she told him but the blush on her cheeks told him that she had not missed the affection in his voice.
"I am worried," he paused, and looked up into her eyes before continuing. "What if I am doing the wrong thing?" he asked the same question that he had asked her many times before. "What if it would be best to leave things as they are?"
"You know in your heart that this is best," she assured him once more as she had each time he asked, "Your strength is in your heart and in your wisdom. Rely on them and not the opinion of other men. You will make the choice that is best for Gondor, have faith in yourself." She paused and looked at the letter that was still in his hand. "And what of this?"
"I know not," he admitted wearily, "I wish so much to see him again but I fear what he will think of me, despite what he says. He knows not what I have done."
"Perhaps he knows better than you imagine," she stated quietly as she brushed her hand against his.
He turned his head to look at her and grunted in pain, the knots in his shoulders too tightly wound to be undone by mere use. He reached up and rubbed his neck roughly hoping to untangle the knots that had formed there during his afternoon of deep thought. His shoulders were tight as well and he felt as sore as if he had been fighting a terrible battle since dawn. He set the letter down so he could use both hands and closed his eyes as he felt tiny shots of pain shoot through his neck and down his spine. He was startled when he felt her smooth hands cover his own and he sensed her move closer timidly.
"Let me," she instructed and softly guided his hands to rest on the arms of his chair as she placed her own gently on his broad shoulders and began to press and pull gently, slowly unwinding the knots.
He closed his eyes and allowed himself to simply enjoy the feeling of her closeness and the relief that her soft touch brought as she kneaded his shoulders with tenderness and a soft hand only gifted to the elven kind. Time passed wondrously slowly as she soothed his weary body, humming softly the songs of the Eldar as she did so. He did not protest when her hands shifted and moved further up his neck and she was compelled to take another step closer in order to reach. At her gentle touch he leaned forward slightly and sighed contentedly as her hands moved slowly and skilfully across his upper back and shoulders once more. She ceased only when the light of the evening stars and waning moon bathed the room in pure silver light.
He finally opened his eyes and smiled at her as she shone softly in the starlight and looked at him shyly, having rarely been so close to him as she was now, standing in front of him so that the waves of fabric she wore brushed gently against his chest and he reached up and cupped the side of her face in his strong hand, stroking it with cherished tenderness. She smiled at him and he felt his heart melt as he wrapped one arm about her willowy waist and guided her to sit, balanced upon his knee. He took one of her small hands in his as he leaned forward slightly and kissed her precious lips, keeping one arm about her to steady her as he drew her gently closer. She tasted of the first berries of summer that he had asked to be found for her. Her scent was fresh like rain and her cheek was smooth beneath his hand. They parted and he let her rest against him as he looked out at the stars. He chuckled softly as he heard her stifled yawn.
"You are tired, Melleth," he admonished quietly.
Her only reply was an inaudible murmur and he sat up carefully as stroked her satin hair. She did not stir and he knew from the unvaried rhythm of her light breathing that she was now quite soundly asleep, trusting that he would keep her safe while she slept. With the utmost care he moved her so that he could gather her slight form in his arms without disturbing her for it seemed though her body had healed, she still tired easily. He wondered with slight guilt how long it would be before the nightmares came no more, before she ate more than a few bites to a time, before she could be at ease among mortals, before she could forget what had been done to her. He sighed deeply as he realized that this thing that he wished for would never be. There would always be nightmares, always be fears, always be the scars that their hands had left upon her.
He stood, and did not even feel her weight as he walked carefully towards the door, shifting her slightly so that he could open it. The halls were silent for the hour was late and few now walked these halls that were so full of life during the day. She began to stir slightly, sensing his movements despite his caution but he whispered to her softly and soon she returned to profound and peaceful sleep. The guards at the door to their rooms merely smiled and opened the doors without a word. Those with whom he had charged with her care were only those he trusted above all else and were fiercely loyal to her. He knew that none would ever reach her without slaying many men for it seemed that all his guards held a special place for their timorous queen in their hearts and would forsake all else for her safety.
He heard the doors close quietly behind him as he passed through the dark outer rooms into their bedchambers. He laid her small form on their bed, gently spreading the velvet blanket over her before he moved across the room and closed the door. He changed into a pair of loose breaches and a tunic before laying down next her on their massive bed. She looked so serene as she had that day in the clearing beneath the gentle rain and he felt an overwhelming love for her that went deeper than anything he had ever known. He marvelled at how each of them seemed to give strength to the other despite their own fears and weakness'. He kissed her temple tenderly and lovingly pulled her close and settled down beside her; sighing contentedly as she moved closer to him in her slumber before he yawned and closed his eyes feeling suddenly all the weariness that he had been ignoring.
"I love you, Melleth," he whispered softly as he joined her in the realm of dreams.
Ilterrin stood silently, waiting for the summons from the guards to come that the entire council was gathered and ready for the king with whom he waited. Elessar stood looking out the window at the city below and he could tell that this was where his friend wished to be at this moment. He knew that Elessar's heart was burdened at the thought of the many who would be forced to leave his councils forever. He knew that his friend cared for these people who sought to ruin him and destroy what he was now attempting to rebuild for he knew they were ignorant to what it was that they were doing. He still wondered at the unfailing compassion of this man for he knew that he would not be so understanding or forgiving were he in the king's place.
Saeorii stood faithfully at his side, still in her robe and nightgown for the day was early. She had woken with the king and now whispered soft words in a tongue he could not understand as she linked his fingers with hers. The king rested his cheek against her head and he could see some of the tension ease but he knew that it would not leave him completely until the task at hand was finished. There was a knock at the door and Elessar kissed her forehead lovingly before standing tall and becoming once more the strong king of Gondor that would do what was best for the sake of his people.
He followed Elessar's long strides through the halls and down the stairs towards the chambers and entered only seconds before and noticed that all stood as the King walked in behind him. There would be no pleasantries this day and all seemed to sense his intentions from his grave face and even those who openly mocked him seemed slightly uneasy and perhaps even a little afraid as he stood before them and motioned them to sit. He was dressed in a deep green tunic beneath a black cloak and as he shifted slightly Ilterrin caught sight of Anduril hanging at his side and shivered.
"Today's council I fear will be briefer than most would like," the king began gravely, "and your part to play in it will be very small, for it is time that you learned a little of me and my history so that you can better understand what I intend for the future." He paused and let this digest before he continued. "I was born the son of a Ranger of the North, the Chief of the Dunedain, but I do not remember my father for he died before my third year. My mother and I were taken to the realm of Lord Elrond who treated me like his son and became like my father. I grew and soon began to travel the lands with my brothers, as the darkness had begun even then to grow stronger and cause unease to those gifted with foresight.
"It was not until my eighteenth birthday that I was told that I was destined to be the King of Gondor, and the last living heir of Isildur. I refused, claiming that I would never hold such a title and I fled from the lands that I had known since my childhood. I vowed never to return. I vowed that I would never be called the king of men." Ilterrin watched closely as those present listened for very little of the King was known to those of Gondor. He could also perceive surprise in a few who obviously assumed that he had been born planning to journey to Gondor and disrupt the way that things had always been. "I spent many years wandering among men. I spent a good deal of time in Gondor and Rohan before I was led to return to the West. There I joined the Dunedain and rode with them for many years, protecting the lands that still were ours. The shadows grew darker, the lands more dangerous and the enemy stronger until at last I was called to return to the house of my father.
"It was there that I met for the first time Lord Boromir and he told me of the suffering of the people of this fair city. He asked, was there not someone who might help them? I knew then that I could not refuse for I knew the people of this city; I had dwelt with them and kept watch over people like them for years. Our journey took us through the mountains, 'neath the golden leaves of Lorien, across the plains of the Riddermark and to here where it seemed I saw this kingdom and its hurting people for the first time." The deep voice of the King was mesmerizing and he knew that all present were spellbound by his words and the pained sorrow in his eyes.
"It was these people, those who now dwell within these walls that spurred me on and gave me courage to ride towards the black gates without fear. It was for them that I took the crown of Gondor, never was it for any betterment of myself, for despite my crown and title I will only ever be a Ranger, a man of the North, nothing more. I still feel guilt when I think how much longer these good people were made to suffer because of my own selfish pride and I hope that someday I will have done enough that they might forgive me of my transgressions." His head was bowed and his voice was low as he spoke and Ilterrin could hear his shame and knew that he did not speak empty words, but words made strong by truth.
"It is for these people that I release many of you from my service," the room was heavy with silence and as the king looked up Ilterrin could see the burning anger in his sterling eyes. "I will no longer stand by and watch the people of Gondor, my people, suffer needlessly when I now have to power to change that. Many of you think I am unworthy to be your king and you are right but I will not let your hatred for me condemn my people to a life of misery. They shall live free from worry and pain once more as in the days of old for if you think I have forgotten those tales, indeed you are mistaken. They are in my heart as they have always been.
"But today is not a day of continuing with what once was. No, today is a day of a new age. This age shall be as nothing that ever was before and we shall surpass the glory of the days of which many stories are told. The name of the White City shall be upon the lips of all and all shall wonder at its splendour. Those who are weary of heart may come here seeking rest and an end to their wearisome burden. Here they shall find peace, and joy, but most of all may they find life. For now we begin a new era and those of darkness and fear shall fall away. This is the beginning of the Fourth Age when the greatness of men shall return and our failings shall pass away out of all remembrance that those who come after us may know only greatness and peace. May all of you live to see that day. That day when the sun that rises in the east will pale in comparison to the Flame that burns in the West!"
With his final statement the king drew Anduril from his side and held it high. Behind him the sun rose with glorious golden splendour and the light fell upon the sword so that it shone brighter than anything he had ever seen. The room was bathed in it and all but a few looked away from the light as the king began to sing softly in an ancient tongue. To Ilterrin it seemed as if they had been taken back many years to the times when men were full of courage and valour and the earth was young and little was changed by mortal hand.
The crown that Elessar wore burned silver across his brow and his face was changed and all looked at him in awe, as they saw in him the greatness of the Eldar kings that had long passed and were now watching with pride as the King stood once more, the leader and strength of Gondor who would not falter. Elessar's eyes were piercing and reminded him of what he had heard of the White Lady and all but a few turned from him, unwilling to let their king know their hearts. Only the great few who did not turn from him would sit on that council when next they met and those who did not would feel lesser than they had been. It was said that the Council of Elessar was the greatest ever made among men; their spirits courageous, their hearts true, and their words wisest among men. These were the men most like the he who led them.
Aragorn sighed contentedly as the doors closed behind them and they were finally allowed the wondrous sensation of silence. Their past hours had been spent among the people of Gondor who laughed and danced upon the Field of Pelennor as had not been done in many years. His heart rejoiced to see them so happy and full of life. He glanced at Saeorii who stood on the balcony, looking up at the stars and listening to those who were still singing below amid the lamps that winked at them from the dark. He smiled as he walked restlessly towards their bedroom, drawn towards the letter that he knew he would find there. He could not leave it. He picked it up as he sat on the edge of their bed and read it again; having longed ago memorized its every syllable.
Please, come home, ion nin. I love you.
He missed his father and brothers so much. He wanted to see his father, Gandalf and Frodo before they sailed from these shores to which he as a mortal was bound. He wished that he had the wings of an eagle to carry him to there. He wished that he could find the fastest horse and ride there with the greatest haste and hear the wise voice of his father one last time. He wished to hear the blustering anger of his friend the wizard and look into his eyes that burned with truth and purpose. Lastly, he wished that he could see the face of the one to whom he pledged his life before he sailed to a land where he would no longer feel the pain that his burden had left him with. He bowed his head and let the hot tears slide silently down his face as he longed for all these things and knew that none of them could be.
So complete and overwhelming was his grief that he did not hear her as she entered. He did not see her as she gazed at him sadly for a moment before walking with unsure steps towards him. He did not see her as she knelt and picked up the letter that had fallen at his feet and place it on the small stand beside him. It was only when he felt the smoothness of her hand upon his cheek as she wiped his tears that he knew she was there with him. He looked up at her through his tears and saw that her cheeks were stained with tears shed for him and his sorrow.
"Elessar, you must go to them," she whispered softly as she looked without fear into his eyes and he could not understand the love reflected in her own.
"Only if you will go with me," he answered, his voice rough with tears as he traced her face with his hand.
"Of course I will, if you wish me to go," she answered quietly, still after so much time unsure of his affection for her and her own worth. He stood and took her slender hands in his.
"I could not bear to be gone so long without you. As long as you will have me I shall stay at your side for all the years that are gifted to me. I love you, Melleth," he murmured as he felt his desire for her overwhelm him once more and he gently led her towards him and kissed her deeply.
He traced the satin curves of her lips slowly before going further and he felt his heartbeat quicken as she hesitantly responded. Slowly he moved his hand so that he cradled her head as he stepped closer and pulled her against him, the small amount of space that had been between them unbearable. He could feel her heart beating against him and felt an ardent longing to know every part of her but his concern for her forced him to pull himself away. For a moment he could not look at her but when he finally felt himself drawn inevitably towards her enchanting eyes and fair face he knew that his bare desire was reflected plainly in his eyes. She did not turn away though as he had feared, nor did she tremble when his longing was laid plainly before her. It was then he knew that the love he felt for her, that was the source of his desire, was shown in his eyes as well.
She reached up and gently brushed an unruly lock of hair from his face and looked at him with a trust that was frightened him as she laid her hand against his heart. No words were needed and he carefully bent towards her slowly, ever attentive to any shiver or sign of fear as he slowly began to release the ardour that was contained within himself. She returned his attentions, ever more the free and unafraid elleth that had been revealed to him in the clearing that day. He softly trailed down her neck and felt a wondrous sensation as she laughed lightly. He paused and looked down at her; her eyes shone brilliantly as she looked back at him.
He pulled back slightly and undid the heavy silk cape bearing his colours and the white tree of his city before drawing her near once more and kissing her more deeply than ever before, unable to have his hunger for her taste satisfied as he began with skilful hands to undo the fastens of her dress that traced her back. Then he slid the satin dress from her alabaster shoulders and let it fall soundlessly at her feet as he turned and lifted her easily onto their bed. He had never seen anything so beautiful as she as she lay upon their bed and waited for him to come to her, which he did without urging and captured her lips once more. Soon nothing was between them and he looked at his enchanting nymph one last time before falling into a wonderful and peaceful sleep.
Next he knew the sun was casting strange shadows within their chambers and his thoughts immediately returned the night before and a smile found its way to his lips as he turned and looked at her lying next to him. Her satin skin glowed beautifully in the morning light as he traced the lines of her bare shoulders before pulling the silk sheets to cover her slightly so that she would not be cold. Her dark hair, now only falling to the small of her back, fell about her like water and hid her beautiful face from him. Carefully he slid closer and brushed it back to that he could watch her while she slept.
Some time passed before it seemed at last she sensed him watching her and she opened her dark eyes to look at him once more. She smiled at him and turned so that she lay on her back looking up at him and he leaned over and brushed his lips teasingly against hers.
"Good morning, Melleth," he greeted her, his voice husky as he drew closer to her once again and kissed her deeply.
She pulled herself up slightly and answered his request. The sheets fell away from her and he traced her soft back with his rough hand as she drew closer to him until he could feel her soft curves against him again. The first time the knock came he ignored it, hoping that whoever it was would leave but the second time he knew that he must answer it. He pulled away from her, resting his forehead against hers and sighed deeply; she giggled softly.
"You had better answer the door," she whispered softly and he moved to the edge of the bed and pulled his robe around himself, tying it as he walked towards the door and opened it only partway.
"Good morning, Maeve," he answered, telling her immediately who stood outside.
"Good morning, King Elessar. Pardon me for interrupting but when Saeorii did not come to breakfast I worried that she might be ill," and Saeorii could see her lady attempting to see in the room past her husband who looked back at her and smiled wearily.
He watched as she pulled the sheets around herself and leaned around the curtains slightly so that Maeve could see her, although it was obvious what state she was in and Aragorn felt some satisfaction as he watched crimson colour Maeve's cheeks.
"I am quite well, Maeve," she answered kindly, "I thank you for your concern."
"Please forgive me," Maeve apologized as she backed away, now smiling broadly at the king as he closed the door, and he returned her smile, nodding formally as the door latched.
"Now," he stated as he returned to his wife's side and she pulled against him, laying her head on his chest, "where were we," he asked as he leaned closer and closer towards her until they met, wonderfully oblivious to the city that continued on around them as the sun rose and the wind sang of love and life.
There you have it! Little longer than usual but I had to cover a lot of ground in one chapter to start the next one where I wanted to. Anyway, hope you will continue to read as the story isn't finished yet!
Tadriendra of Mirkwood: Sorry about the grammar, definitely not my strong point but I'm glad that you were able to muddle through it. Sorry that it wasn't Legolas but know that he will be coming soon! Hope it wasn't too much of a disappointment. Glad that you understand schoolwork. Thanks so much for your review and I hope that I continue to hear from you!
Estel-Ara: Boy a lot of people were counting on Legolas. Hope you weren't too disappointed and he will be coming. Anyway, thanks for the review and I'll hear from you next time.
Tommylover: Glad your enjoying, here you go and I will update as soon as my other stories allow! Thanks!
onyx-worriestone: Glad that I could brighten your day, your review brightened mine!
Karone Evertree: Sorry to end your happy dance. Get ready to do it for real soon though because Legolas is coming. Hope I didn't ruin your week or anything and I hope you enjoy this chapter as well. Liked the Brego moment myself, but then again I wrote it. Anyway, thanx!
EldarChild: Glad you like it and know that I will definitely continue my story. I'd hate to leave you hanging. Hope to hear from you again! Thnx!
Blistered Avalon: Glad that I didn't disappoint you. Hope that you liked this chapter too! And I did better than I expected on my essays. Hope you continue to read and enjoy this story. Thanks so much!
LadyArian: Thanks so much! I am glad that you like them both and I hope that you continue you to read them both. I think you read almost all my fic's that's really cool. Hope to hear from you again!
Randomisation: Neither one actually. I think that everyone will be really surprised to see that it was Glorfindel since he's not a character in the movie. He plays a larger role in the novels and so I thought that I should include him too. Hope that you will continue to read and enjoy my story! Thank ya!
Ainariella: Glad that you thought that was a nice chapter. If you thought that one was long though this ones even longer. Hope that you liked this one as well and I hope to hear from you again! Thanks!
Shary: Definitely flattered and I am glad that you like my characters. I was afraid when I started this that people would resent Saeorii for taking Arwen's place but I haven't had one single complaint which makes me happy. I hope that you like this chapter and I will update as soon as I am able. Thank you so very much!
