Title: The Stuff of Nightmares
Author: Linda Hoyland
Characters/Pairing: Eldarion, Aragorn, Arwen
Rating: PG
Warnings: gore
Word count: 100
Book/Source: LOTR book-verse
Disclaimer - These characters all belong to the estate of J.R.R. Tolkien. This story was written for pleasure and not for financial gain.

MEFA Nominee 2011

Eldarion watched intently while his father polished Andúril. He reached a tentative finger towards the bright steel.

"Be careful," Aragorn cautioned. "The blade is very sharp. It could hurt you."

"Have you cut enemies heads off with it?" Eldarion asked eagerly.

"I have indeed," Aragorn replied."This blade has been stained scarlet with their blood! Andúril has triumphed in many a battle."

"Estel!" Arwen chided. "You will frighten the child with such gory tales. He will have nightmares."

"I want to hear more," begged Eldarion. "I won't have bad dreams."

"But I will, ion nîn" Aragorn said gravely, sheathing the blade.