Through Bitter Chains by Rhysenn

Story notes: This is a semi-AU slave-fic.

The One Ring remains lost, perhaps, even forever; Sauron lies dormant, unable to return whilst his Ring of Power is hidden from him, although the whisper of his formless malice creeps across Middle-earth like an insidious shadow. There is discord and suspicion among the different folk of the land, and they have grown apart instead of being united. The races of Elves and Men have long been sundered, and have had no dealings with each other for many years.

Minas Tirith is the capital of the lands of Anórien, of the former realm of Gondor; it is a flourishing city, wealthy and of much profitable yield; but the people have fallen into greed and selfishness, forsaking the nobler ways in which their forefathers once lived. Men are much more like the ancient Romans that we now know of: sexuality is about rough passions and obsessive power plays. But yet, amidst corrupting desire there still lives in some the rare spirit of the nobility and love of the elder days.

Central Characters: - Boromir has claimed the title of King of Anórien, since the kingdom of Gondor had disintegrated into several smaller states due to internal strife and civil conflict; Faramir is the prince of the city. - Aragorn, who is born of true yet forsakenn royalty, has returned to Minas Tirith after his wanderings in the wild, and now serves as chief steward of Boromir's household. - Gandalf is his trusted friend and counselllor; he is the only other who knows that Aragorn is the true royal heir, biding his time to reclaim his birthright and reunite the scattered peoples of Gondor to their former glory. - Legolas is an Elf who had been captured bby hunters; a prize of great value, as this story shall tell.

And due to popular demand, the hobbits will make a cameo appearance in a later chapter.


Many thanks to Megan and Tyellas, my beta readers.

Archivists' Note: Nanjo Koji made fanart for this story: Through Bitter Chains.

1. Chapter 1 by Rhysenn [Reviews - 0] (3102 words)

2. Chapter 2 by Rhysenn [Reviews - 0] (3271 words)
The elf learns about his place in this strange city of Men; and we meet Aragorn, the steward of the house.
3. Chapter 3 by Rhysenn [Reviews - 0] (3182 words)
The grand dinner feast takes place, and Legolas is brought before King Boromir -- will pride beget a fall?
4. Chapter 4 by Rhysenn [Reviews - 0] (3479 words)
Boromir asserts his authority, and Aragorn struggles with feelings that he cannot ignore.
5. Chapter 5 by Rhysenn [Reviews - 3] (3887 words)
Aragorn confides in Gandalf; and Boromir has something else to bestow upon his elf-slave.