Chapter 17
When the minstrel had finished his song, Aragorn led Frodo and Sam to a set of tents prepared for the celebratory feast. Once again he sat them on either side of him and, after the Standing Silence, they began.
The soon-to-be king smiled as Frodo and Sam noticed Merry and Pippin approaching, but did not recognize them. When they did, however, they got very excited and asked for an exchange of stories after the feast had ended.
Aragorn leaned toward Gandalf. "I am glad to see Frodo and Sam well again."
"As am I," Gandalf said. A frown creased his face. "But if Frodo will fully recover I do not know. He has seen and endured many hardships."
"That is true," Aragorn sighed, "but only time will tell."
~o~o~
Having excused himself from the feast, Aragorn now stood on one of the docks of Cair Andros making arrangements for ships to carry them to Osgiliath.
"We have some ships, my lord, but many were burned when the island was attacked." The dockmaster told him. "Nevertheless, we will do what we can with our remaining vessels."
"Thank you, Dockmaster, for doing what you can." Aragorn bowed politely, a hand over his heart. "The efforts of you and your crew will be well appreciated."
With his business complete, Aragorn recrossed the river and entered the camp. Several companies of soldiers had stayed behind to completely rout all that remained in Mordor, so they would be at Cormallen for some time.
01-05-2023
A/N: The next chapter will be something a little new. Keep reading to find out, and maybe leave a review if you like this story. (I accept anonymous reviews!)