Chapter 1: Love Somewhat Eternal



In the house of Elrond Half-Elven, young Aragorn came upon Arwen Undomiel and fell deeply in love at first sight even though he had no idea what her personality was like and she might be a real shrew. But he likened her loveliness and sweetness to that of Luthien of old, and like Beren he cried out:

"Tinuviel! Tinuviel!"

The vision of beauty turned to him, her luscious lips parting to convey such words as he longed to hear.

"Oh please. Do you know how many times I have heard that line?"

Aragorn was taken aback. "Er…um…"

"Six hundred and fifty-two times."

There really wasn't much he could say to that, so he fell down upon his knees, clasped his hands to his breast, and went with his original plan.

"Milady, your beauty has enthralled me-"

"Yes, I know you are now completely in love with me, you wish to worship my star-kissed face, and on and on. I have that effect on people."

Aragorn felt his young, gentle heart breaking.

"So then…you love me not?"

"Of course not, silly mortal."

Oh, how could a voice so lovely be so cruel?

"I shall…take my leave, then."

"You do that."

And he did.



* * * * *


"You again! Will you please desist from your ceaseless pursuit of me?"

"Milady, it has been nine and twenty years since I last saw you!"

"Exactly."

"…Anyway, I came upon you by chance today. I had no idea you were here."

"I am visiting my mother's parents, the Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn."

"I see. So, do you love me now?"

"Not really. Go away."

"Have you noticed that I have aged but little since we last parted?"

"Not really. I pay little heed to humans."

"Have you noticed that I am Isildur's heir, and have rightful claim to the throne of Gondor?"

"Not rea--what did you say?"

And thus, on a midsummer's day under the golden eaves of Lothlorien, Aragorn son of Arathorn won the love of Arwen Undomiel forever more.