Chosen

Aragorn stared at the ground, so certain he wouldn't be chosen that he failed to hear his name called. Mallor had to repeat it twice, his voice rising each time. "Pay attention, clothhead -- do you want to join the next company to the Lonely Mountain or not?"

"Aye, sir!"

"Don't let it go to your head," Mallor warned. "You're not the Chieftain yet. Keep your mouth shut and ears open; you're only there to learn."

Halbarad saw the young Ranger's jaw clench and flicked him a sympathetic smile. "You'll enjoy the journey, lad; 'tis long, but not too toilsome."

[Ainu Laire wanted "Aragorn drabbles" for birthday presents]