A.N: Revised(14) More scenes, more dialogues.

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Rivendell

My fingers made circles in the pillow that I laid my head on. The bed sheets tucked up to my waist, kept my feet warm. It was early morning before the sunrise. The sky was still dark but the stars had slowly gone away. I waited for the sunrise as I did the morning before. In the sunrise I found peace and warmth. There was a sense of security in the radiating sun as it rose over the mountains and everything in nature was compelled to sing. The two days I've been in these lands, I couldn't sleep nor did I had the overwhelming feeling of drowsiness. I was wide-awake. As I laid there in the bed, I thought often of Stockton, my family and my old dreams. The faces of my family members were blurred in the void.

I had yearned to wake up in my own bed and believe all of this was just a dream but that never occurred. This became my reality. I was trapped in a strange world and in a strange body. Nothing made sense. Suddenly a bright light illuminated across my bed. I rolled to the side and leaned on the window frame. A smile developed on my lips as the morning sun exposed itself over the mountains. The mountains were silhouette in darkness as the bright sun rose higher and then started to illuminate down the mountainside. Birds sang as it got brighter and brighter. I inhaled the fresh air and allowed myself to be swathed in harmony.

After the sun was set, I sighed and brushed a hand through my long strands. I rose from the bed and approached the armoire that was filled with dresses; gifts from Arwen. I was grateful that Lord Elrond informed her of my mysterious appearance, just shortly after dinner. Shore swore to secrecy until otherwise notified. It made it easier to be around her without feeling guilty to lie about every little detail. There was once a confused look but later explained that she too, felt something different about me. It made me wonder if all the other elves did also. Was I the outsider?

Lord Elrond wanted it to be discreet which I was more than fine with. It was also his divine desire that Arwen would attend to me as a tutor. Explained all there was about living in Rivendell. Never in my life had I ever been at a dinner table with more than eight utensils for dinner. What was worse, it was barely scratching the surface of their culture. It felt ancient and wise. It was until later I'd learned that elves had immortality, and that Arwen was centuries years old.

Elves have immortality... did I have immortality?

There were too many questions and not enough answers. Thus why Lord Elrond sent a rider to sought out this Gandalf in some distance land. It was yesterday evening when the rider had return and he did, in fact found Gandalf the Grey. To my greatest dismay, he would be delayed. Due to another task, Gandalf would not arrive in five days time. I for one, was not particular happy with the wait. Anxiety was not a cordial friend.

After I readied myself in a light green dress, I left the room. Slowly, I became familiar with this estate, at least on the west side. I dare not attempt to venture to the east side yet. As I made my way to the library, my mind turned with thoughts about my stay here. Lord Elrond was absolute about our conversation yesterday, in fact, there was no argument that could be made...

"I'll have Arwen assist you." Lord Elrond said after I shortly arrived to his office. He leaned back into his chair and stared intently at me from the guest chair. It was as if he analyzed me with those observant brown eyes, cautious and wait for my untimely response. "You will learn about our culture."

"Is that nessescary." I objected, confused to why I must learn their culture to please others. There was no way I was staying here for more than another week. Unless there was another hidden agenda that I was not aware of.

He rose from his chair and walked around the desk toward me. Once he was at me side, he placed his hands behind his back. "Yes, you must blend well with us. Understand, Lady Amelia your odd appearance to Middle -Earth, may fate ill for you."

"Why?" I inquired, bewildered. "I do not understand how my 'appearance' can be bad."

Lord Elrond turned away to stare out to the view. His gaze downcast to the small garden below. "We live in a society where we must protect ourselves from unfriendly ears." He warned in a low tone.

I never did understand. At least not completely. Of course learning their culture was important, since I am in fact a guess. But why would my actions cause others the need to protect themselves from 'unfriendly ears'. More importantly who were they? Must I live on egg-shells to divert my appearance?

I came to the library which was opened with no doors but pillars to support the ceiling and curtains to block out the blazing sun. It would be my first lesson in their culture, which I learned was very strange. As I walked in, at the back of the room was a young elf, who was truly past the four thousand marker. The Keeper of the Library... reminded me of my old librarian from kindergarten just more nice-looking. The one who hushed everyone in the room.

My eyes darted to Arwen who waited patiently at a table. Without turning around, Arwen murmured softly, "Good Morning."

She sat up straight and elegant at a table with her back to me. On the tabletop, there were a large pile of scroll and old books. Was that for me to study? No one ever mentioned that! The large pile intimated me and apparently Arwen took this seriously. Lost in thought, Arwen turned in her chair and smiled at me, "Ready for your first lesson?"

I blinked and looked at her encouraging face. She was indeed serious. With a hard swallow, I sat next to her and she rolled out the first scroll from the pile. Two rocks blocked the scroll from rolling back up again. Arwen said knowingly, "I thought we could start with the map. It's best to know the land before learning our history and culture." Softly, her finger trailed the across the map delicately before she stopped over a kingdom. It was in elvish, a beautiful handwritten language that I couldn't begin to fathom. Arwen continued, "See here? This is Rivendell, and in my tongue it's known as Imladris. The meaning is deep valley of the cleft."

I nodded as I touched the map. It felt old and delicate. The written elvish language was complex, especially for me since I never strived to learn another language. "I wish I could understand your language."

Arwen smiled gingerly as her eyes softened. "Worry not, I will teach take several years to understand."

Years? Did she expect me to remain here for years? I have no intention of staying here more than nesessary. This place was in fact beautiful beyond measure, but... it was too much. Too different. A vast world with medieval-like traditions and strange creatures. Which I happen to be. Arwen suddenly continued, "Don't be hard on yourself."

Don't be hard on yourself; I repeated those words in my head. Then I remembered back in California, I sat next to young boy who was the age of fourteen. He struggled to read. His words were unpronounced and did not understand most written English words. The pressure deepened on him for he wanted to be a football player but had to keep his grades up. Nervously he bit his lower lip as he glared at the book before him. I remembered I placed a gently hand on his and said 'don't be hard on yourself.'

I almost forgot that I was a tutor. It was rewarding to watch others learn and expand their minds. I enjoyed helping others and now, someone else helped me. Now I understood that pessimist look that the students gave me. I snapped back when Arwen placed her hand on my mine. Her eyes were full worry, "Amelia? Amelia are you well?"

I blinked and snapped to the reality. Swiftly I met her gaze and I already forgot what she said. I furrowed my eyebrows and tilted my head in curiosity, "I'm sorry, what?

"You dazed out for a moment." She answered softly as she continued to stare with concerned eyes. Quickly she moved her hand and shifted herself to face me. Slightly she leaned toward me with faint glint of eagerness, "You remembered something?"

"Yes." I answered quickly, my lips barely moved. The memory still bewildered me. It was as if I was there and then it disappeared. Things slowly came back to me in flashes. It was hard to pin point when these events happened.

Arwen tilted her head to the side. No doubt she noticed the confused look I had. "That's wonderful. What memories did you behold?"

Her tone was gentle yet encouraging. I looked at her and answered with a thoughtful voice, "I remembered; I was tutoring someone. A young boy." I stopped momentarily and continued dryly, "That's all."

Not a useful memory. It became rather discouraging if not down right pitiful. I felt delicate fingers under my chin pulled my face toward Arwen. Her maternal gaze pierced me, like a beacon in the darkness. "Do not be discouraged, young one." She murmured softly followed by a gentle smile and she continued meaningfully, "When the time is right, you will remember all you need to know."

"I remember a lot, but they are too hazy as if they were blocked out." I strained to explain, as I dropped my eyes to think deeply, "I see faces. Many faces. A dark place with no living flesh... but souls... spirits of the past. Something about my past terrifies me. Sometimes, I see things. Strange things that don't seem to fit... As if they weren't my memories to begin with."

When I looked up, Arwen was left with bewildered. As she she understood the concept but not physical meaning. How could she? I walked a lonely path of unfamiliar faces and trapped in a strange realm. Arwen frown in deep concentration, her eyes questioned and she finally asked softly, "Why do you fear your past. You will never know if you do not accept what has happened."

I did not want accept the possibility of my death or having amnesia. Most of my flash backs were dark, empty faces and at times their were battle cries. If anything, they left me shaken. A great sorrow from my world burned a hole into my soul. I clenched my hands tightly to a dark shadowed that haunted me in my home. The past mocked me. My present was impossible. The future was uncertain. It all left a warning. I sighed deeply, "There are dark shadows..."

"Dark shadow exist in any world." Arwen amended, never once dropped her eyes from me. "You will face it and you will defeat it."

"What's makes you think such things?" I inquired, doubting. "I have no strength."

"Strength is what you make of it, Amelia. Life is not so black and white, your strength will come from here." Arwen placed her hand over my heart. "This will defeat the darkness."

Gently, she pulled my hand to replace hers. My heart was my greatest tool. I looked down at the hand that covered my heart and I knew I must protect it. Arwen smiled one last time and pulled away to return to the studies. As time went on, I learned of other elvish cities followed by the world of men. When I heard the name Mordor, I shivered and felt a sudden alarm in my chest. Last were the Shire and Bree. Strange world, I thought to myself. Not too many cities like my home world.

Before Arwen pulled out another scroll, a young elleth by the name of Nessa who walked with beauty and grace, approached us. My sensitive ears picked up her light footsteps and swiftly I turned, surprised, "My Lady Arwen and Lady Amelia, Lord Elrond request you're presence from breakfast."

To my utter dismay, when I heard the word breakfast, my stomach growled loud enough to make the Keeper of the Library to glance up surprise. Even the young maid avoided to make eye-contact. Arwen smiled, "Shall we? After breakfast I would like to take you to the working garden."

I rose with Arwen, not managing a graceful movement compared to Nessa or Arwen. I objected, confused. "We have already had been to the garden, just last night."

"No, Lady Amelia, the working garden. You have not been there."

We walked quietly, well at least Arwen and Nessa did. My feet scuffled loudly, alerted many elves my presence. At the entrance to the open balcony where Aragorn and Lord Elrond sat quietly, waited. Nessa stopped at entrance and bowed her head respectfully before she left. She would not join us? I wondered to myself.

"Good Morn, Arwen, Lady Amelia." Aragorn greeted, stood up and bowed his head respectfully.

I sighed internally. The formalities here were tiresome, for I tend to forget to use them and speak normally. But I must fit in to divert any suspicions, "Good morning, Ar- er, Lord Aragorn."

This forced a small smile on Arwen's lips who attempted to suppress it. At the table, I was thankful that Arwen did not speak elvish to Aragorn, mostly for my sake. Aragorn was in the dark regarding my situation, like so many others. Under the request of Lord Elrond, very few knew of my appearance. Until Gandalf's arrival, it will remain as such. Less was more.

Several elves offered harp and flute music, it set the mood as the sun rose fully into the sky. Delicious delicates such as sweet bread, fruit and way bread were brought to the table. The smell was invigorating, made my stomach growl, which I forced myself not to meet any curious eyes. We waited for another two elves to join.

As I sat quietly, vaguely listened to the conversation between Lord Elrond and Aragorn, I felt the curious eyes of the musician elves. It was no secret that most of the these elves wondered why I lingered in Rivendell or why Lord Elrond had shown interest. It made me feel insecure when I knew they whisper about my presence. Truly, I hoped they did not get the wrong idea about me and Lord Elrond. He did in fact had a daughter, which meant he must have a wife somewhere. Family ties were concealed behind closed lips... Perhaps I should inquire Arwen later.

Rounded around a corner, came two elves dressed in fine clothing. Lord Elrond rose from his chair and glanced at me and gestured his hands told the two elves, "I would like to introduce Erestor, the Chief Counsellor of my household and Lindir, the chancellor."

Awkwardly, I stood up from my chair and did a curtsey. "Pleasure."

They both lowered their heads while Erestor placed a hand over his chest. Lindir smiled kindly and said, "Well met, my Lady. Forgive me for not greeting you soon."

His eyes were soft and genuine. It made me relax all the butterflies that were buzzing in my stomach from meeting new people in a strange world. I softly shook my head, "It is fine... I mean, it is well."

Lindir cocked a eyebrow for a splint second but did not inquire more while Erestor watched with careful eyes. Sighed deeply, as I swallowed hard and avoid eye contact with neither Erestor or Aragorn. The two elves sat at the table and discussed events in Middle Earth. I imagined the were harmless news since, I was sitting there listening rather than Lord Elrond talking privately with Erestor and Lindir.

"Is Rivendell to your liking my lady?" Lindir suddenly asked, out from his previous conversation with Erestor and Lord Elrond.

Nibbled on the corner of a sweet bread, when question. Swallowed down the food and answered politely, "I like it very much."

He smiled gently, appreciated my answer. "I am happy to hear."

"Are you from Rivendell?" I inquired, decided to pick up the question.

Lindir looked at me puzzled, "Why, yes my lady."

Well of course he was, what a stupid question. Swiftly, I looked away and continued to nibble on the end of the bread and avoided further contact. Unconsciously I glanced up momentarily at Aragorn who was curious but never pried. Once the meal was finished, Arwen spoke up, "If you would excuse us, my lords. Lady Amelia and I are to visit the working garden."

"Of course." Erestor said, gently in his natural deep voice. Everyone rose and I was utterly grateful to be excused from the uncomfortable silence.

"Would you care to join?" Arwen inquired to Aragorn, who nodded.

It wasn't too far just on the other side, Arwen said. It was in fact far. I already forgotten how we made it here. I walked behind them as Arwen clasped her hand into Aragon's. It didn't bug me to be the third wheel, actually compared to what I remember from my home world, this was sweet. They didn't publicly lust after each other but rather offered gestures of their love. A smile grew on my lips as I watched them from behind. In time, it made me yearn for it. I've never been too interested in relationships but this kind of love grew on me. I caught myself daydreaming of a mysterious person beside me.

My daydreaming came to an abrupt halt when we arrived to the working garden. It was indeed different from all the other gardens I've been to. True to its name, elves worked with gentle hands, tending and trimming at the growing plants. A variety of plant were in a row, almost ready for harvesting. I briefly remembered several of the plants such as tomatoes and cucumber... but the others without vegetables or fruit were foreign to me. Elves sang songs while they took pride in their work. Not one rotten or premature plant. No doubt these elves had many centuries of experience.

I was most certainly in awe and fascinated. My eyes were torn away when I noticed a tall elf with long brown hair and blue eyes approached after he pulled out the weeds. A smile appeared on his lips and he spoke in elvish as he bowed deeply. Aragorn and Arwen returned the friendly gesture with kind words.

Uncertain, I followed Arwen's movements but Aragorn turned to me and cocked an eyebrow. It was in fact rude not to return friendly phase but I was left defenseless. That was when Arwen said in the common tongue, "Forgive me Linderiel, I have not introduce Lady Amelia. She is my father's guest."

His eyes came to me, sightly widened in awe and he nodded his head but never broke eye contact. I felt a slight blush on my cheeks from the gaze he gave me. Fidgeted with my fingers when I noticed a slight glint in Arwen's eyes. Linderiel spoke up with kindness, "Welcome to Rivendell, my lady Amelia. I am Linderiel and I am the oversee of the gardens."

No matter how nervous I suddenly became, I mustered a smile and replied, "Its nice to meet you, Linderiel." I was upmost confident that I butchered his name but he smiled, slightly amused.

"You have a lovely accent. Where do you hail from, my lady?" He inquired with genuine curiosity.

My throat tightened and my back stiffened. Why must he ask where I am from? I hesitated and glanced nervously to Arwen who nodded confidently. "I am from... over the mountains."

In the corner of my eyes, I saw Arwen's smile falter. Apparently that was not a good answer. Arwen took a step closer to Linderiel and said softly, "Lady Amelia is visiting us from the far reaches of Middle earth. I brought her here to observe our plants."

That instantly adverted the conversation. Linderiel eyes lit up with genuine love for plants and looked to me with a fond smile, "Of course, allow me to show you around."

Linderiel offered his arm and smiled encouragingly when I was hesitant. Shyly, I wrapped my hand under the crook of his elbow as he led me down the stone path that outlined the garden. As I listened to his soft voice explain the name and purpose for each plant, I noticed a tint of a strange accent in his voice. He rolled his 'r' with more emphasis that seemed to fall of his tongue with a melody sound.

"These here..." He pointed out a tall plant but I instantly cut him off.

"Where are you from?" I asked bluntly which made him staggered slightly.

"I am from Lothlorien." He said after he composed himself. I smiled for I remembered that location on the map that Arwen showed me earlier. "Have you seen Lothlorien?"

I glanced up, slightly guarded but it was a simply question. "No, but I would like too."

He smiled, pleased with my response and he nodded his head toward the plant that we stood in front of. "This plant is from Lothlorien. I travel there often, full of joy to be reunited with the trees. I often return with seeds to plant in Rivendell."

"They are lovely." I complimented at the tall plant with silver leaves that were now blossoming small white flowers.

"Indeed." He agreed. We moved along down the path and passed by elves who offered their greetings. After the short tour came to an end, Linderiel brought me back to Arwen and Aragorn who waited patiently by the entrance. Linderiel stopped our walk and turned to me. Gently he pulled my hand to his lips and murmured, "I hope to the Valor that we will meet again soon, my lady."

I slightly blush and muttered, "Thank you."

After I was released, I hustled to Arwen slightly dazed by Linderiel's sweet behavior. He was certainly the first to kiss my hand and speak with reassuring speech. Certainly unlike anyone I've ever met. None of the less, I loved the working garden and was fascinated by the beauty and healing properties of each plant. Arwen torn her loving gaze From Aragorn to me and smiled gently, "I think that concludes our tour for today."

"ok, see you tomorrow then?" I inquired, uncertain but Arwen simply smiled and nodded her head. "I'll find my way back. Until tomorrow."

I moved away as Arwen and Aragorn strolled slowly down another path. Determinedly I stared down the hall that was vaguely familiar, one way or another I will eventually find my way back to my room... Hopefully.

Late in the evening after supper was served, I went to an open balcony and observed the view. The sun was setting over the mountaintop. The sky was a bright orange that slowly pushed back by the darken sky. Birds sang as they found their resting place. The sun set over the mountains and radiated peace and warmth. There was nothing pale in comparison to these sunsets here. It was not harsh or overly blinding but just right to set that calm mood. I leaned on the rail with my forearms as I hummed silently to myself.

After I departed from the working garden earlier, I went to the library. There were a few things I wished to have here that were from my home world. I wasn't one from television or computers but I did wish for some classic books or at least english literature but there was no such things. After I left the library, I resided in my room until supper and then came here to find peace and quiet.

Broken out of the silence, I heard soft footsteps from behind. It was still strange to detect the most sensitive noise waves or see fine details. However these footsteps were light but heavier than an elf's swift moments. Instantly, I suspected it was Aragorn. When I looked over my shoulder, Aragorn rounded up from a spiral staircase and was surprised to see me at the balcony.

He abruptly halted at the last step and said apologetically, "Forgive me, my Lady, I did not know this balcony was taken. I'll take my leave."

He bowed his head respectfully and started to turn down the stairs when I immediately spoke up, "No, its alright. I don't mind the company."

He stopped mid-step and looked over his shoulder, still surprised. Aragorn smiled in appreciation but there was a questioning look in his eyes as he tried to figure me out. It was no secret that I was the strangest elven company he'd ever came across. Maybe it was my distance or strange behavior. It was no secret that I didn't speak like a delicate flower with years of diplomatic experience. It was odd territory for me. Slowly he came to stand next to me and he pulled for his pipe that hung on his belt.

He puffed his pipe weed in silence, I suppose it calmed his nerves or something. It was a strange habit he did alone or with a company of close friends. The smoke escaped his mouth and fluttered into the wind, far from my face. I heard him sigh against the soft wind. Something laid heavy on his mind, I wagered.

I stared at him from the corner of my eye, took in his rugged features. Underneath all his sturdy looks, there was a calm man. He was unlike any man I've ever meant. He spoke fluent elvish and even moved like an elf. Everything about him screamed elvish, except the fact he did not have pointed ears. There were a few resemblances to the men in my home world that suggested that he could have lineage from there. Not sure how, just theories. I wondered how old he was? He carried himself with honor and a certain calmness that attracted others to him like a beacon. As I analysis him, I could see what Arwen saw in him. He was handsome and taller than me by a full head. As he smoked, his face and sharp eyes stared off, deep in thought. It was not his looks that kept me staring nor the comparison between humans and elves, it was because there was sadness in his eyes.

"Is there something on your mind?" He asked suddenly without even so much a glance. My throat tightened as my cheek grew red. It was embarrassing to be caught staring at him. But he wasn't angry, thankfully but his voice was a bit dried.

Curiosity got the best of me. "Why do you act like an elf? You speak and walk like an elf but you're not an elf."

It was a bit blunt but I didn't think Aragorn would get offended so swiftly. He turned his head to me, surprised at my question. At first he was quiet as I pursed my lips, maybe I did step over the line. Then finally he answered, "I was raised here for a time."

His answer was short and simple. I did hope for more but now it did make sense why he seemed so elvish. He even took the heart of an elvish woman. I imagined that must have been difficult. That sadness in his eyes... I wanted to remove it. Aragorn appeared to be a kind man and did not deserve whatever plagued his mind. Gently, I inquired further, "Something disturbs you?"

He looked away, back at the mountains before us but he glanced from the corner of his eye. He was hesitant and unsure of my motives. When he puffed out some smoke, he was cautious not to allow it into my face. He replied gently, barely moved his lips, "You need not to worry."

Slightly wounded by that answer, I quickly turned away and downcast my eyes. Surprise, he returned the question, "What of you? Something is heavy on your mind."

I glance back but swiftly looked away again. Sighed inwardly as I said, "I am troubled but I wish not to speak of it."

He nodded his head, understood immediately. I stared at him again from the corner of my eye but only for a moment. However I was curious about one thing, "Why do you call me Lady Amelia?"

Strange question, I know. But where I'm from that term has never been used since the medieval times. It did seem like medieval here but I never understood that term. Aragorn turned toward me with a bewildered expression. It was as if he questioned why I did not know that already. However, he immediately waved it from his eyes and answered, "It because your elf maiden. It respectful to call all women My Lady despite heritage."

That made sense but now that I've successful embarrassed myself with strange questions, I looked away. I mustered whatever courage I had and inquired again, "I don't mean to pry but… how old are you?"

When I looked up at him, he seemed slightly amused but then became melancholy. I knew he was older but how much older can he be? Perhaps fifteen or twenty years, or was that too much of a stretch. Aragorn grew silent and I immediately cursed myself for my curiosity, I did not meant to give him the blues, "I'm sorry, that was rude of me"

I said quick with a desperate tone but Aragorn answered, "I'm forty eight years."

I blinked and wondered if he was jesting or trying to make a fool out of me? Aragorn barely had wrinkles embedded into his skin. If anything, I would have guessed maybe about mid-thirties or less but not forty-eight. That's impossible! My mouth dropped and I wanted to say something but no words came out. Aragorn noticed my confusion and said, "My lineage was blessed with long life."

Thanks, that really didn't help much. He was blessed with long life. I knew there was more to it but Aragorn was quiet about it. So I bit my tongue, maybe one day he'll open up. I laughed to myself, I was getting irritated with him for being secretive and here I was being reserved myself. What a hypocrite. Instead of getting frustrated, I let go of it. Suddenly Aragorn asked, "How are old you?"

That took me by surprise. I didn't expect him to ask any questions. It was only fair to answer but do I be truthful? I bit my lip and then finally answered, "I'm sixteen."

Aragorn snapped his gaze to me, shocked. His eyebrows furrow in bewildered before he said, "You don't look sixteen."

I pursed my lips and nodded in agreement. A ruefully smile grazed my lips as I muttered, "I know, I look older."

Aragorn puffed out some smoke before he turned away to look at this night sky, "Its not your looks I was referring to. Its your maturity."

I nodded my head in agreement. At a young age, I was forced to grow up fast. I sighed inwardly, but this body was not young. It was older, it felt older despite my young looks. There were scars that told a different story that did not align with mine. I looked over at Aragorn, he confessed to being forty-eight and Arwen was much older. Aragorn was human and Arwen was elven-kind. How would their relationship work? Eventually, when the time has come, Aragorn will inevitably die and Arwen would be heart broken. I did not want to think of Arwen in pain... The very thought caused my heart to ache.

"You don't look like a forty-eight year old man." I countered with a slight smile on my lips.

Aragorn turned to me and nodded in agreement. After he finished his weed, he put away his pipe and gave me his full attention, "Neither of us are what we seem."

It was true. Behind closed walls, we were never what we seemed. For that, I couldn't help but smile a little more and to my surprise, Aragorn return the smile. It was as if we have came to a new understanding of each other. Appearances were deceiving. I felt a little bit of our walls had come down. Even with few words, Aragorn was easier to converse with. He didn't speak anciently or like a fortune cookie. He was human like I once was and still mentally am.

"Be well tonight." Aragorn whispered as he placed a gentle hand on my shoulder. The corners of his lips lifted as he bided me a good night. Quietly he began to turn away and walk toward the spiral stairs. I watched him as he disappeared out of my view. I smiled to myself as I turned back to the night sky. Perhaps there was more to this Aragorn than I gave credit for.

To be continued