Aragorn II Elessar: The King Returned

Aragorn II (born Third Age 2931) was the 16th Chieftain of the Dúnedain of the North and the rightful heir to the thrones of both Arnor and Gondor. For much of his life, he lived in exile as a Ranger of the North, known by the alias Strider. Under the guidance of Gandalf, he undertook a decades-long journey of preparation, eventually leading the Free Peoples to victory against Sauron.

The Hidden Heir

After his father Arathorn II was slain by Orcs, a two-year-old Aragorn was taken to Rivendell. To protect him from the agents of the Enemy, his true lineage was kept secret even from him; he was named Estel ("Hope") and raised as a son by Elrond. It was not until he reached adulthood that Elrond revealed his heritage and presented him with the Scepter of Annúminas and the shards of Narsil.

The Long Vigil

Aragorn spent many years as a traveler and soldier under various names. As Thorongil, he served in the armies of King Senghel of Rohan and Steward Ecthelion II of Gondor, performing great deeds but always vanishing before he could be recognized. This period of "The Long Vigil" allowed him to master the lore of all peoples and the geography of Middle-earth, preparing him for the ultimate leadership.

The War of the Ring

Aragorn's destiny converged with the One Ring at Bree, where he met Frodo Baggins. As a member of the Fellowship of the Ring, he was the group's primary guide and protector. Following the fall of Gandalf in Moria, leadership of the company fell to him.

His path to the throne was forged in fire:

• The Reforging: Before departing for the south, the shards of Narsil were reforged into Andúril, the Flame of the West.
• The Paths of the Dead: To save Minas Tirith, Aragorn summoned the Dead Men of Dunharrow, fulfilling an ancient prophecy and proving his status as the heir of Isildur.
• The Battle of the Pelennor Fields: He arrived via the Anduin at the height of the battle, unfurling the standard of the White Tree.
• The Black Gate: He led the Host of the West to the gates of Mordor, offering himself as a final distraction so the Ring-bearer could succeed.

The Reunited Kingdom

Following the destruction of the Ring, Aragorn was crowned King Elessar ("Elfstone"). He founded the House of Telcontar and married Arwen Undómiel, reuniting the long-severed branches of the Half-elven. His reign lasted 122 years, a golden age of peace and reconstruction known as the Reunited Kingdom. He died in the year 120 Fourth Age, choosing to surrender his life before his strength failed, in the manner of the ancient Kings of old.