{Video/After the Feast: Open to Seelie & Unseelie}

[rangerandking]

There is a magic here that I have never encountered in all of my journeys across Middle Earth. I do not know what to call it or even where it originates. {His anger over having been taken from the final battle at the Black Gate has diminished. In its place, Aragorn looks solemn and paler than usual.} I can only ask that it returns me from whence I came. It is of the utmost importance that I do not -

{For the first time, his voice cracks and he falls silent.}

There is a battle. It will decide the fate of my world. If I do not fight within it; if I do not lend my strength to my men, more of them will perish. {Perhaps they will lose heart. Perhaps all of them will die in the face of their greatest fear. All of the possibilities are incredibly grim.} I must return.

My name is Aragorn, son of Arathorn and I am the rightful heir to the throne of Gondor. My place is with my people and my friends.

{No feast can distract him; food is naught but a texture against his tongue. Now isn't the time for joy and festivities. Rather, his entire attention is fixed upon that which he can't see anymore.

The Black Gate.

How far has he been transported? And by what sorcery? He holds onto his sword - the reforged Narsil - tightly, ready and waiting to draw it free from its sheathe.}

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[firith]

He would. [ The Nine Walkers share a bond that nothing can dissolve. With any luck, it will only be strengthened here, where danger comes in constant battering force and subtle cruelty.

Touching the bridge of his nose, it is not often that a shadow of Thranduil's age passes over his face yet it does so now, the sheer relief wearying his brow. ]

It is a gratitude I cannot express, to have peace of mind knowing you have kept your wits about you in this land. Forgive me, Aragorn; I should have expected no less of you. [ But he is not too proud to admit that. ] Call on me when you have need of aid, I will do what I can even should I needs must ride out to your side myself. I will not hold you here any longer, there is much I am sure you would wish to do this day.

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[rangerandking]

{The fatigue on Thranduil's features causes Aragorn's expression to soften. He knows the Elf is proud - like father like son in that respect - yet carrying a burden alone is tiresome for anyone.}

I take no offense at being asked, Your Majesty. It isn't wise to make any assumptions.

{Those words coming from Thranduil mean a great deal to him and he smiles faintly.}

I offer you the same aid - should you find yourself in need of it. We will be helpless indeed if we do not keep one another abreast of what has passed.

{His wishes have changed drastically and he finds himself without a compass. Even so, he realizes he needs to familiarize himself with the castle at the very least.}

I thank you for contacting me.

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[firith]

[ Inclining his head in grateful acknowledgment, he looks thoughtful one last time. ]

Do you have need of a fierce and tireless steed? If so, I have a horned mount called a unicorn, Gelefn, who is the father of a herd within the forest. They use their horns to skewer their meals, oftentimes, but I have found Gelefn particularly useful against orcs.

[ Who doesn't want a steed that stabs monsters all on its own, really? No one. ]

If you wish it, I shall send him to Caer Glaem with one of his kin. They will serve you better than a horse as they are cleverer beasts and cannot be ridden by any who is not of royal blood, near-impossible to scare and steal.

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[rangerandking]

There is always a use for such a steed. {His eyes widen and he tilts his head, clearly awed.} I can see why he would be a fit companion to have in the wilds.

{A small smile follows that. He will never tire of seeing Orcs skewered.}

I will care for them to the best of my ability. {Which shouldn't be hard since he can communicate with most animals.} You are far too generous, though I am not complaining.

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[firith]

Expect your new steed in three days or so, they are keen racers and will not dally. [ His smile chuckles. ] If I were truly generous, I could say less and offer more. It is enough that you are well provided for.

We shall talk again, my friend. I will leave you to your immediate business.