Homecomings

Many sons of Isildur have passed through my house, but you were the first I considered my own. I remember that evening when you arrived, wet from the rain, crying and confused.

I can hardly reconcile that memory with the man standing before me. The years were not over-kind, yet you have persevered -- and conquered.

I grasp your hand and you pull me into an embrace. It is good to feel your warmth, to know you are well. Glad of face, kingly and, in your eyes, I see it: you are ready to assume your heritage. Estel has become Elessar.

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Note: In the last paragraph Elrond shares what Sam thought when first seeing Aragorn at Cormallen. See "The Field of the Cormallen", The Return of the King