Chapter Text
The halls of Mirkwood ever vast, flowing, a rhyme and reason for each structure, each carefully sculpted twist in the trees, the glint along the walkways. This kingdom was truly breathtaking.
A Ranger feeling so small in a kingdom so big, he could not imagine what the creature at the end of the rope felt. The wailing thing had gone quiet under the presence of the king. Good, Aragorn could suffer his screams no longer and was glad for the chance to actually hear his mind when faced down by bright blue eyes before him.
Silver robes adorned on a slender body poised in jewels with a crown of leaves complimenting long golden hair. Aragorn was inadequate here and he knew it.
“Your majesty. I present to you, at the end of this rope, the creature, Gollum. I captured him in the dead marshes. I then dragged him overland for nine hundred miles to deliver him. Thus fulfilling our agreement to bring him here. To your kingdom.” The Ranger dropped to one knee. Head low in respect. The creature whimpered and scampered at the floor.
Thranduil eyed the sorrowful creature, it’s body decorated in scars beyond what any natural element can do. Torture devices only found deep within the dark tower. Then, his gaze went to the ranger, dark rims hollowed his eyes, sides heaving with the exertion of his journey here.
“You have done well, Elessar. Our bargain is completed. Rest here for a while, my guards will take this creature into our cells. I will have my servants prepare the guest chamber for you.”
Two elven guards flanked Aragorn, holding shackles fit for the tiny wrists of the creature. Aragorn raised his head. “Hannon le.”
Movement beside the king caught Strider’s eye. Someone stood beside the throne now. Sharp, blue eyes met weary grey ones. Draped in silver and gold, a delicate crown upon a soft frame. Skin as smooth as silk and a smile that melted the dark. Tall, slender, long legs and reformed arms from use of a bow. Long golden hair pulled back in intricate braids. A picture of loveliness and beauty. Poised and deadly, a weapon, a wanderer, the prince…Aragorn’s breath was stolen from him.