Friendship Everlasting
by Kara B.

A Lord of the Rings Fan Fiction Response to the Letter Challenge by Shirebound

Rating: PG

Summary: Aragorn writes a letter to Sam

Aragorn studied the piece of parchment before him, composing his thoughts. He'd received a letter from Frodo a few days prior and felt a need to correspond with Samwise Gamgee, Frodo's best friend.


Dear Sam,

I hope that you and your family are well. Much time has passed since our adventures and it is to my regret that we have not kept in touch as well as we might have. You hobbits have been most dear friends and are so generous and giving. I suppose what is spurring this letter is the fact that I received word from Frodo that he has left for the Gray Havens. Do not blame yourself for his injuries. He requested that of me as I'm sure he has of you. I request that of you as well.

Life is far too short to continue to dwell on such things. And you and Frodo will meet again someday. That I do know. Yours is an everlasting friendship. It was meant to be. It got you both through some rocky times and survived even the most devastating of words.

Sam paused in his reading of the letter, recalling how Frodo had vehemently verbally attacked him... had told him to leave... He'd been so afraid of losing his friend at that point, but even more so of his friend losing his own soul. It was a comfort that others could see the strength and the love in the friendship. Aragorn's letter itself was a comfort as it confirmed everything he already believed about the friendship. It was meant to be... it would last, despite time and space... despite all else.


True friendship is indeed a marvelous and rewarding thing. So rare to find... at times tempermental to attend and yet ultimately rewarding in its end result.

We all shared a great adventure. One that will never be forgotten. And your part was equally if not more important than that of Frodo. A friend who will stand by a friend through times such as those is a golden treasure. You were even his friend when he claimed to want you no longer. Never stop being who you are Samwise Gamgee. And know that you are needed in this world... And that Frodo has found peace.

Until we speak again my friend,
Aragorn

"What is it Sam?" Rosie suddenly asked, disrupting his thoughts. "You look so serious."

He pulled his wife close. "I was just thinking about Mr. Frodo. Wondering if he's at peace."

Rosie nodded sympathetically. "I miss him too Sam." She paused. "But you will see him again. And you will always be friends."