southern Rhudaur..close to The Angle

It had been a few days since Dwalin saved Amari and Kita from the orcs and they were finally making it out of the forest that laid on the southern edge of The Great East Road, heading for the nearest village in the region of The Angle. These few villages located here were inhabited by Dunedains and rangers of the north..humans..but they at least had healers that could help Amari's leg. Dwalin wasnt sure what he was going to do when they reached this village..he should leave them there so they could rebuild thier life over, but the thought left a very bad taste in his mouth and a heaviness in his stomach. For some reason he wanted them to continue on with him to his home and possibly stay...forever ...a small voice whispered in his mind making him shake his head. After all she had been through how could he ask that of her.. how could she trust another man again...especially a stranger... but thats what he wished for. As it became close to evening, when they had to stop for one last time before reaching the village, Dwalin looked around for a good spot to camp..finding only a clearing ..and he started to get a fire going and setting up the camp.

Amari and Kita were just spooning out the stew into bowls when they heard a sound ..rustling of bushes..and her heart began to pound in fear. Dwalin stood up with his axe and sword at the ready to battle whatever was there and Amari quickly grabbed her dagger while Kita readied her bow.

"Show yurself now or face me wrath!" Dwalins growl was feirce and chilling...but not to the women who knew they were safe. "Come on step out unless yur a coward." a voice that calmly spoke to them.

" Be not afraid..i mean you no harm." A man stepped out from the bushes..human..holding his hands up in a gesture of meaning no harm . He had dark hair that reached his shoulders..his clothes were grey in color with a green long coat over it and a darker green cloak that was held by a six pointed cloak clasp together over that. "Im just a traveler ..like yourself wishing to warm myself by your fire. " he stepped far enough into the light for them to see but not close enough to alarm and waited to see what would happen. It was Dwalin who first recognized the man..or at least what he was.. and he lowered his weapons while signaling for Amari and Kita to do the same.

"Yur a ranger from these parts i guess." The man nodded as he lowered his hands to his side.

"Im called Thorn... master dwarf." he bowed a little at the waist with his hand over his heart in respect to them."May i please warm myself by your fire..if only for a bit." Dwalin looked over to Amari and seeing her acceptance he motioned with his head to Thorn ..as he went to her side sitting closer , not sheathing his weapons but keeping them close at hand.

"Im Dwalin...this is Amari and Kita" Thorn inclined his head towards each.Amari spoke to him while glancing at Dwalin .. " would you like to join us in our meal Mr. Thorn?" She saw Dwalins approval out of the corner of her eye and felt warmed by it.

"Thank you lady.. i am truly hungery and the food smells wonderful." she spooned everyone a bowl and they all ate the meal .During the meal she noticed hte rangers eyes would glance her way briefly then back down to his food...until finally he spoke. "I cant help noticing that you are injured..might i be of assitance in payment of your hospitality?" Amari looked to Dwalin to see what he thought as he turned to her.

"You wont find better help out here in the wilds ..rangers are well known for thier abilities in these matters..but its up to you." seeing her give the go ahead Thorn went over to her side as she delicately moved her skirt up enough so he could see her leg better. Knowing he could see the scars ..but ignoring them he lightly examined her calf..then reaching into his pouch at his side he pulled out some herbs. Seeing the curious look on her face he kindly smiled at her...Athelas , kingsfoil.. then placed the herbs onto her leg and rewrapping it back up. He moved back to his spot across the way as she felt a slight tingle in her leg. He asked how it happened and she gave him the edited version of the fight with the orcs.

"So whats dwarves doing in these parts of Rhudour?" his eyes settled on Dwalin knowing he would be the one to answer.

"Im traveling back home from the Iron Hills after visiting some kin and im escorting these two lasses to the next village to see the healer. You?"

"Ive been tracking some orcs that are roaming in these parts when i saw your fire." Dwalin knew this to be truth for these parts and he nodded in consent over this.

"Aye..so ive been told." He sat for a moment in contemplation then looking back at the man he stated what was on all thier minds. "Your welcome to stay here for the night..there is safety in numbers." seeing the surprise on the Thorns face made him chuckle for moment.

"Thank you again master dwarf..i do appreciate that and i agree with your assessment." they watched Thorn getting himself settled down in a good spot for the evening. He layied his bow down within easy reach and noticed Kitas eyes looking at it . "I see you have a bow... any good with it?" Seeing her shy assent made him smile. "I didnt think dwarves used bows? " seeing her lower her head he was about to apologie when her voice cut him off.

"I taught meself..so i could hunt if needed for food and.." Dwalin reached over and ruffled her hair cutting off the rest of her words.

"Aye and a good little hunter you are lass." she smiled hearing the hint of pride in his voice for her abilities and no dissapproval was evident in his tone. Amari saw how Kita smiled and looked up to Dwalin and she felt her heart grow...knowing her was a man she could depend on, look up to herself...maybe..possibly... love..whispered in her mind. It shocked her for a moment but she hid it so as not to show to any of them.

Everyone began to lay down for the night but unlike anyone else Amari found she couldnt get comfortable this eve..she kept figgiting and shifting trying to find a comfortable position..not finding a one. Suddenly a hand gently rested on her shoulder as Dwalins gruff voice got her attention." Here lass..lay yur head on my shoulder. It would be more comfortable for yeh and i dont mind."looking at him and seeing him hold out his arms..she carefully eased up into his arms as he enfolded her in thier warmth. She fit perfectly there like it was where she always belonged and he gave a satified sigh as he felt her fall into peaceful sleep finally.

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Dawn painted the sky with its soft pinks and purples as night faded before it..life came awake as the suns warm light flowed over the land chasing the shadows away. Amari slowly eased into wakefulness from the most wonderful dream. She dreamt that she was in Dwalins arms being held as if he loved her safe,warm, and protected from all harm by him...sighing she laid there on the ground...that was moving..and warm...and......her eyes flew open when she realized that she wasn't on the ground but actually in Dwalins arms snuggling into his chest. A gasp snuck out of her before she stopped it..but it was too late..he was awake already. She could tell by the rumbling of his chest as he chuckeled in her ear and his arms tenderly wrapped around her tightly holding her pressed into his chest. She felt a blush stealing across her cheeks but she didn't move from where she laid..for the first time in her life she truely felt safe and she didn't want it to end. They stayed that way for short bit enjoying each others warmth and comfort. Amari's heart kept pounding fast as she lyed there in his arms and her breath was hard to catch..being there was both pure bliss and pure torture for her.

The moment was broken by a giggle and a soft laugh from the opposite side of the fire. Amari hid her face into Dwalins shirt blushing furiously while he raised his eyebrow at the offenders with a slight smile. Clearing his throat Thorn stood up tapping Kita on the shoulder to get her attention for a moment.

"Do you want a small lesson on using a bow properly little Kita? If its alright with you of course lady? " Dwalin gave him permission as the dwarfling got excited looking over at her momma. "Then come over this way miss and ill give you a few pointers." Thorn walked away with the girl following happily behind..giving Amari and Dwalin some small privacy. As soon as they were out of sight but not earshot Dwalin reached up his hand trailing a finger lightly on Amaris blushing cheek as he smiled down at her.

"Morning..." his heart sped up as he peered into her lovely golden brown eyes and when she smiled back he felt it speed up even faster . "By Mahal..your beautiful" the words slipped out before he could stop them. He waited for her to push away or give a sign that he offended her, but she didnt do either. He saw her lips part in a soft gasp and her breathing became ragged as she gazed back at him. He slowly lowered his head towards her..moving slowly so she could move away if she choose..and brushed his lips against hers briefly. He heard and felt her soft intake of breath as he gently placed a kiss on her lips...feeling her hands grip his shirt tightly , pulling him closer to her. He didnt hesitate in giving her what she was asking for with her body and seized her mouth hungerily ..his tongue slipping into her mouth when it parted in invitation as he drove his tongue deeply into hers. He could feel her body quivering in his arms and her whimpers of pleasure was driving him insane. She tasted like the soft morning rain as her tongue caressed his back...and he knew this woman was his one love as she dragged out a deep moan from him. He pulled away from her lips smiling as he heard her whimper of denial from the loss. He peered into her eyes once more seeing how they were full of desire for him and he couldnt help himself in tasting her once again. They were broken apart when the sound of Kitas squeal of joy penetrated their awareness from over where she was getting some lessons from the ranger. He looked back down at Amari seeing her blushing again. "Guess its time we left huh?" he sighed and got up from where he was at...immediately kneeling down to scoop her up into his arms and placing her into the saddle.

"Kita! Time to be off."He bellowed to get her attention and saw her running towards him giggling as she came with Thorn right behind her. Soon as she got close he swooped her up placing her right behind her mother..then turning to the man he held ou this hand to bid farewell."Thank you.I believe this is where we must part ways..if yur ever in Ered Luin..dont forget Dwalins the name."They shook hands and as he turned Thorns voice paused his steps.

"Mind if i travel with you...these parts are not safe and im also heading back to the village you going to." He inclined his head in the direction they were heading. Dwalin realized this was a good idea and grunted in approval as they began to journey that way together.

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As they approached the small village a group of men came out riding large horses towards them and Dwalin warily watched them getting closer readying himself for defending the two women if need be..but the words of the man in the lead stopped him in his tracks.

"My King Arathorn..welcome back sire. " The leader said as he dismounted and walked over to Thorn..King Arathorn. He glanced over at the dwarf who was accompaning his leige as he grasped the kings hand in welcome. He saw Arathorn look over to the dwarves ..turning to them with an abashed look on his face ..meeting the male dwarfs eyes who raised his eyebrow at him.

"I do apologize master Dwalin...I was not tryin to mislead you...I am a ranger but im also the king of these lands. " he bowed low with his hand on his chest with an apologetic look on his face. "Please accept my humble apologies sir and allow me to welcome you into my home for the evening. Ill even have my personal healer take a look at the lady ." he stood waiting for a reply from him..but it was Amari who answered him as she placed her hand on Dwalins shoulder.

"Please Dwalin? My leg is hurting horribly..i think i do need more help.. please lets accept his hospitality for tonight?" her eyes pleaded with his and sighing he accepted ..for her. ..he still didnt like the feeling he was tricked by this man..but for her sake he took him up on his offer. Arathorn smiled kindly and gestured for his man to lead the way to his home. When they got closer , Amari saw a large stone keep before them with a elegantly beautiful young woman in a soft blue dress walking down the stairs holding a small baby in her arms to greet them. Her blond braided hair trailed down her left shoulder and her eyes were a stunning blue that sparkeled in joy upon seeing her husband back.

"My love. Welcome back home." she glided over to Arathorn kissing him on the cheek and handing over the baby who had the sweetest dark curls framing his chubby little face. He cooed and gurgled in joy as Arathorn held him close and wrapping the other arm around the womans waist. "Did your hunt go well?"

"it did." he then turned to the dwarves with a smile on his face as he introduced them all."This is master Dwalin, lady Amari and her daughter Kita...This my friends is my most lovely wife Gilraen and my son Aragorn II..future king of these lands. "They each bowed to her in respect." Please love can you get a room ready for them. They will be staying the night and lady Amari here needs the services of the healer. "

"Of course." kissing him and going back into the keep to prepare for their visitors.

Dwalin carefully helped Amari down off the horse and held her in his arms close to him as two young boys came over to them..one taking the horse and leading him away to the stables and the other gestering for them to follow.

"Ill leave you too get settled and cleaned up for dinner tonight and here is where i shall take my leave until then."With that he turned and went into the keep also leaving them to make thier way to thier room being guided by the young boy.

Dwalin had just gotten Amari settled on the bed when a elderly man knocked on the door and let himself in to the room followed by Queen Gilraen. "Pardon master Dwalin..this here is the healer that you requested for the lady." the healer inclined his head at them as he approached the bed that held a pregnant dwarrowdam on .He took a look at the leg ..administering the same herbs that Arathorn had done last night then rebound it again.

"it looks good..been taken good care of ..not much i can do other than whats already done..except give you medicine for the pain..but.." he paused as he looked at Amaris swollen stomach." With you being with child lady..i do not feel they would be safe for the child and possibly hurt the baby." A shadow of fear entered into Amaris eyes at the possibility of any harm befalling her child and her hands went to her unborn babe which didnt go unnoticed by the healer." My lady do not fear..no harm shall befall any of you while here."he gave her an kindly smile easing the fear." May I examine you and check on the child also?" Amari gave him the go ahead and he shooed everyone out to give her privacy. Dwalin wasn't happy leaving her but he knew he couldn't stay..it wouldn't be proper..so when the healer came out he found the dwarf pacing the floor agitated and the healer couldn't help smiling at him. Upon seeing the healer Dwalin rushed over to him "well? They all right or what?" Growling at the man who smiled while raising his hands up.

"She and the child are both fine ..and they seem in great health for all the damage thats been done to her. I know not how she came by them but she's a tough one to endure whats happened to her causing those wounds." He looked pointedly at Dwalin..hoping he wasn't the source..but that thought was dispelled immediately when he saw the shock and anger enter his eyes.

"How bad are the wounds?" He growled low trying to control his rage of a dead man and the atrocities he committed to his one love. The healer bowed his head knowing what he was about to say could push this man over the edge but knowing he needed to know.

"Well master dwarf..there are many slashes across her abdomen some small..some deep..but looks like all made by a knife. How she survived and able to carry this child is a miracle." He shook his head and continued." She also has some old burn marks..looks like made by fire iron being dragged across her skin. As I said its a miracle. Well good day master dwarf. Take care of her..she's been through more than is right for a woman." He turned away and left Dwalin to deal with the knowledge.

Dwalin stood there in the hallway breathing hard trying to bring his outrage under control before he went in..she didn't need to see that..she saw enough of that to last a lifetime. After few moments he finally got the rage quelled and he went in to see her lying on the bed smiling at him as he entered..which he quickly returned easily. He went over to her other side, opposite from Kita who sat next to her, sitting down next to her as he took her small hand into his large one..noticing for the first time how delicate she was compared to him.

"The healer told me you both are fine and healthy." He said while turning her hand over in his bringing it up to place a soft kiss on the inside of her wrist leaving a warm tingle behind..causing a blush to flow across her cheeks, leaving her almost breathless. He stared into her eyes quietly laughing , knowing what his touch was doing to her. She on the other hand had never felt this before..at least not before he came along. Never did her husband cause her to feel such an intoxication of feelings that washed over her at his very touch. Each time Skotik touched her he left her feeling sick to her stomach and feeling filthy all over..his hands that roughly pawed at her then hit her when she didnt perform exactly the way he wanted her to. Dwalin was his opposite in every way...his touch warmed her through making her want more..each kiss made her wish for another then another again...everything about him made her wish he was hers for all time. She knew that wasn't possible...how could any man want her..she was to damaged...especially for someone as honorable and good like him.

She realized he had asked her something while she was off daydreaming and she didn't hear what he said.

"Hmmm. I'm sorry ..I must of been gathering wool or something. What did you say?" He just snorted and smiled as he repeated himself.

"I asked what else did he say..like how long you needed to rest or anything else?" He reached over and moved a strand of hair behind her ear as he spoke..seeing her blush intensify further..he smiled tenderly at the sight.

"Uhh..I..I think he said I just needed to rest for a few days before I could travel again and keep putting kingsfoil on it twice a day for bit." Her eyes lowered as she was about to speak,but Dwalin at that moment leaned down brushing his lips across hers in a whisper of a kiss..breaking her train of thought. She tried to speak again but he leaned down and kissed her once more but with more pressure this time and a soft groan emerged from his throat before he sat up looking down at her.

"Rest for awhile..dinner will come soon enough lass and it has been a long trek for us. I'm in need of a bath before then." He waited for her to nod before he got up going to get cleaned up..hearing her sigh as he was shutting the door he laughed quietly so she wouldn't hear.

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Dinner that night was full of laughter and quit a ruckus..men roared in laughter as they gestured with forks ..ale poured in vast amounts..and everyone was just being merry. Even little Aragorn was squealing in delight as he bounced in Amari's arms. She couldn't believe that Gilraen had asked if she wanted to hold the princeling and of course she said yes..he was such a sweet and beautiful baby..she couldn't help smiling as he gurgled and cooed up at her waving his chubby fingers trying to grasp her hair which after awhile Gilraen took the baby away putting him to bed..taking her leave also.

The evening progressed well into the night..Dwalin looked over seeing Amari's eyes drooping in exhaustion in her seat next to him. He looked over to Arathorn catching his eye and motioned they were retiring for the night. He stood up reaching over and carefully picked up Amari from her seat,gently nudging Kita who had fallen asleep in her chair, awake as the three of them quietly left the dining hall for their room. Kita opened the door for Dwalin who carried a sleeping Amari to the bed where he eased her down , covering her with the thick blanket after taking her shoes off. As Kita climbed into the oversized bed with her momma Dwalin made up his sleeping blankets on the floor in between them and the door..always on guard...axe and sword in reach he fell asleep.

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The sounds of the village woke Dwalin from his slumber on the floor...sitting up he saw Kita come bouncing out of the bathing room all bright eyed and energetic. Looking over he saw Amari still asleep so he held up a finger to his lips to keep her quiet which she sighed but did as he asked.

"Dwalin..."she whispered and he gave her a look" I wanna play..canna I go play please..other children are? Please please?"she begged while giving him puppy dog eyes and somehow managed to make her lip quiver pathetically at him...he couldn't resist the look and let her.

"So long as yur not gone long...your momma will worry..and don't get inta trouble lassie." She jumped up in excitement and ran off down the halls. Dwalin shook his head realizing he was soft on the child and was in big trouble in refusing her when she gave him those eyes. Hearing a sound from the bed he looked over and saw Amari whimpering in her sleep..having a nightmare.

{Skotik was standing over her again..holding a fire iron in his hand that glowed red from the heat of the fireplace where he had removed it from. He was cackeling as he looked down on her cowering form that was trying to inch away from what he was about to do to her...again.

"Ahh...little poppett..trying to get away and go back to him? "He sneered at her." He don't want you. He's disgusted by you...look at you..scarred up like a monster...what man wants anothers discardes...that's all you are..my discard..now its time to clean up and take out the trash you * rukhs shirumundu caragu*( beardless orc dung)." He laughed chillingly as he began to advance on her.}

Dwalin went over to her as she tossed her head back and forth from the horrid dream. Sitting on the bed he placed his hand on her shoulder gently shaking it..trying to wake her up." Amari....wake up lass...come on..its just a nightmare." Her whimpers were turning into tortured cries, tears were falling down her face. He quickly gathered her into his arms "Amari..you gotta wake up love..its not real..it can't harm you...Amari" he said her name more forcefully finally jarring her out of the nightmare. Upon seeing his face filled with concern she collapsed against him crying hard..clutching him tightly...needing his comfort desperately. Dwalin enveloped her shaking body in his arms as she sobbed into his chest.

"Shhh..its alright...its over ...yur safe now" he kissed her temples and held her tighter to him, eventually her crying eased off and only the occasional hiccup could be heard from her." Want to tell me lass?" She shook her head." Come on...maybe if yah talk about it ,it will go away. I wanna take your pain away ..please."he about let it go when he heard her voice softly speak.

"It was Skotik...he was hurting me and saying I'm.....worthless." her voice choked out the last word on a sob that tore his heart up. She kept thinking maybe he was right..maybe she was not worth love...she could feel Dwalin stiffen by her side...see even he realizes it now. She tried to push herself away from him but his arms held tighter and his gruff voice was laced with his pain seeing her so tortured and knowing he could destroy that demon Skotik for her again.

"Don't ever say your worthless again. You have more worth in your finger than that vile beast has all over or can dream of...especially to me" he tilted her face up from where she was crying in his chest and swiftly placed a kiss on her tear stained face that was replaced with a look of shock." Especially to me..my love" he leaned his head back down again this time claiming her lips for his own. Feeling her gasp of surprise his tongue darted in between her lips , savoring the taste of her mouth...a taste that belong only to her designed to drive him over the edge if he wasnt careful.

As his tongue rolled across hers , her mind shut down being overwhelmed by his taste , by the feel of his tongue gliding along hers, his hands that held her close to his chest where she could feel his heart pounding out the same tempo as hers was. Her arms slide up his chest and around his neck with her hands tangeling into his hair..feeling him groan into her mouth that vibrated down into his chest . She felt a heaviness pooling low in her body and a shiver run through her as she arched into his arms demanding more of his touch.They had to pull away for they both needed air and he knew if he kept this up he would have her on her back claiming her fully as his own..he didnt want to move to fast with her, scaring her away. He tenderly placed his head against hers breathing hard when he felt her shoulders shaking ... peering down to her face he saw tears falling from her eyes. Worried that he did something so wrong he pulled away even more to look at her.

"Amralime ( my love) whats wrong. Ah lass..Gajut men (forgive me) please..i went to fast...please dont cry...Men lananubukhs menu ( i love you). I wouldnt hurt you for anything in this world." he brought her agiainst his chest praying she wouldnt hate him for pushing so hard when he knew she was so deeply wounded already.

"Its not you...its me" she sobbed into his chest. "Im not good enough for you. Your sweet, so good, and just so wonderful...How can you want me ever. Im too damaged " her head fell to her chest as she cried harder in despair that she was about to lose him forever. She felt him pull away from her..thinking this was it, he was leaving her now...but was surprised as she felt his hands on both side of her face raising it up to look into his eyes. His eyes peering deeply into hers , his thumbs caressing her cheeks, she heard a sigh torn from him that seemed pained as he spoke.

"No love..it is I who isnt good enough for you. Yur the most perfect woman I have ever met. Yur beyond anything I could ever dream of. Yur my heart... my angel...my one true love. The one Mahal has created for me and I for you. I do want you now and forever...I..I..I." he stuttered for a moment before he stood up off the bed then kneeling by her side and taking her small hand into his , he looked into her eyes as he spoke the very words that she longed to hear from him and yet never dared to hope for." Will you..Amari..allow me to court you and prove how much i wish for you to become my wife ? "kneeling there before her watching and waiting for the shock to leave her face. His patience was rewarded as her face lit with pleasure and she threw herself into his embrace crying tears of joy, kissing his face, "Yes! Oh Yes..I will... Men lananubukhs menu Dwalin. " hearing her return his feeling overwhelmed him and picking her up he twirled her around before they fell onto the bed with him cradeling her tenderly in his arms as he kissed her lovingly.

The door flew open while they were kissing to let in a red faced dwarfling who came to a halt seeing her mother kissing Dwalin...she was about to back out when she heard Dwalins sigh.Afraid of being in trouble for barging in her feet started to back up slowly as he turned to face her. She paused seeing a look of not irration or anger there but a look of amusement and ..was he blushing??.

" Hello Kita. I see your back .Did you have fun with the other children?"He asked her as he adjusted Amari better in his lap, not wanting to let her go or reveal what her kisses had done to him. Kita nodded her head and just stood there in confusion..not knowing what to do next. Seeing the childs fear and uncertainty , he smiled as he held out his hand towards her, inviting her to come to him."Its alright Kita..you can come here. Theres room for you in these arms too. " she heasitantly came closer after she saw her mommas smile and nod of head. Still a little afraid she came closer and Dwalin slowly pulled her into his arms..not wanting to scare her. "Kita..i have a very serious and important question for ya." she leaned away to look up at him nervously as she gave him her full attention. " I wish to court yur momma and marry her soon. I love her very much and want to have you both as a part of my family. I promise i will always watch over and protect you both from harm with my very life. I promise i will love her forever and love you as my daughter forever. I promise to provide you both with a home that you will always feel safe in for all time. I ask you ..Kita ..for yur blessing?" her stunned expression was quickly replaced by a joyous one as she squealed in happiness throwing her arms around his neck.

Amari felt such happiness seeing her daughters joy at Dwalin that tears formed in her eyes again..she tried to hide them but they saw anyways. "Momma? Why you crying? You okay momma?" Amari reached out touching her face while smiling at her.

"Im perfect miz berch ( my daughter) . Your momma is just too happy right now that i cant contain it." she laughed lightly. Kita looked over to Dwalin suddenly with a serious look.

"Am I going to be Leibz berch ( your daughter) too?" He smiled and nodded.. if you want.. " what about the baby in momma...will they become yours also?" He placed his hands onto Amaris swollen stomach looking into her eyes as he answered ... Yes..i wish that very much. Kita stood taller as she mimiced Dwalins serious tone and expression that they both had seen on him as she spoke. "Then ..Yes sir.. I give my blessing to you... kahgam." she couldnt contain herself as she practically sang out that last word in joy.Dwalin pulled her back into his and Amaris arms as he vowed in her ear. "Im going to love you both with all my heart as you both deserve to be..cherished and loved for always ." his voice left no doubt that he would do otherwise.

A/N: yes the baby is Aragorn[strider] future king of gondor as a baby..before his father died when he was 2 and his mother took him to Rivendell to be raised.