#menegroth
Often Beleg Strongbow came to Menegroth to seek him, and led him far afield, teaching him woodcraft and archery and (which he liked more) the handling of swords; but in crafts of making he had less skill, for he was slow to learn his own strength, and often marred what he made with some sudden stroke. In other matters also it seemed that fortune was unfriendly to him, so that often what he designed went awry, and what he desired he did not gain; neither did he win friendship easily, for he was not merry, and laughed seldom, and a shadow lay on his youth. Nonetheless he was held in love and esteem by those who knew him well, and he had honour as the fosterling of the King.
–J.R.R. Tolkien, The Children of Húrin, “Túrin in Doriath”
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Chapter IX: The Reckoning (Pt. II)
As it was told to me sometime later: the whole of Doriath stood still that day. No wind blew through the trees and nary a forest creature could be seen. Time seemed to stop within our borders. Even within the halls of Menegroth there was an unsettled anticipation. Silence filled every chamber and the only sound heard was our footsteps—like heartbeats they filled our ears with anxious desire for a return to normalcy. This day would never be forgotten in the annals of time. Yet in the moment, one could forget there was ever a time such as this to remember.
It was the day Lady Lúthien and her Beren would return to Menegroth. Even as the day began as always, an uneasy excitement whispered through its hallowed halls.
I was called upon by Elmo and Orowen to receive the returning couple with the rest of the family. I had met the request with some doubt—for I feared it was all in vain. Nonetheless, I acquiesced for the sake of Mîrwen.
At sunrise on that day, I rose to find Mîrwen standing across our chamber draped in her robe and staring upward.
“Mîrwen,” I began. “Is something the matter?”
“Would you think ill of me if I were to say I wished this day had never come,” she asked softly.
“You know I could never think ill of you,” I said as I got up and walked over to her. “May I asked why you fell this way?”
She turned toward me; her eyes felt like daggers through my heart.
“I know of your visions, Orothôn,” she said. “I know you have seen was is to come and it will be this day that casts its long shadow upon this world.”
“What are you saying,” I asked.
“You know well what I am saying,” she snapped.
“If I did, my love, I would know how to answer.”
“Why did you say nothing to me of what you have seen,” she demanded.
“I did not wish to upset you,” I said. “It would appear I had just cause.”
“I am not amused, Orothôn,” she said.
“Nor am I, Mîrwen. What has brought you to this, dare I ask?”
“I know far more than you think,” she said.
“Well, that would not surprise me as you spend your days with the ladies of the court,” I answered. “I can only begin to imagine what you talk about when your husbands are not around.”
“We do not discuss Súlwë,” she said.
Words escaped me.
“Where did you hear that name,” I asked.
“It does not matter from where I heard it,” she answered as her voice seemed darker. “What matters is he knows the reason why this day has come. Your visions are what lies in the future this day foreshadows.”
“Mîrwen, please,” I said softly. “No more.”
“For now,” she whispered as we heard a knock at the door. “Enter.”
Servants entered the room to dress us for the day.
“I will tell you as much as I can,” I whispered.
“No, Orothôn. You will tell me all that you know.”
She smiled and motioned to her dressers and disappeared behind her screen.
I made my way to my attendants and we were dressed in silence. When we were ready, Mîrwen and I entered the hall where we met Oropher and Nimeithel.
“Ada,” he said. “You clean up nicely. How long has it been since we have had the occasion to be so formal?”
“It has been too long,” I answered.
We began making our way to the main vestibule. I put aside the events of the morning the closer to the throne we came. Not since we first entered into Menegroth had it looked so festive. I allowed myself a moment of much needed peace.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 09-22-2020
Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.
Where have I been? Getting ready for this. The return of Lúthien and Beren.
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Chapter IX: The Reckoning (Pt. I)
The court began buzzing with delight with news of Lúthien’s return. Iarûr was the only one among us whose demeanor remained solemn. When I had the opportunity later in the evening, I found him in his chambers alone at his writing table. I entered cautiously through is opened door.
“Pleas come in, Orothôn,” he said without looking up form his work.
“I am not interrupting your work,” I asked.
“No,” he said looking up. “There was no work to be done this hour. I was putting my thoughts down for my own remembrance of this day.”
“It is this day I wished to speak to you about,” I said.
“I know,” he sewered. “You are quite perceptive. If you thought the news of this day troubled me, then you were correct.”
“It is wonderful news,” I said. “The return of the king’s daughter will make this kingdom whole once more.”
“You are naive in your optimism,” Iarûr said sternly. “It will serve you well on the darkest night but in the light of day, you must acknowledge reality.”
“I do not understand.”
“N one returns from Angband as they entered,” he said softly. “I can only imagine the horrors of the Lady Lúthien must have seen. No one can witness such evil without losing part of themselves.”
“The king will be happy once more,” I said almost pleading with him.
“Yes, he will,” he agreed. “But it will be short-lived, Orothôn. I am afraid this world will never be the same again. It is changing, my friend. The elements of good and evil have intermingled creating seasons not so easily discernible.”
I could say nothing—I just stood there thinking about those words as they seared a hole in my heart. Now I feared what may come to us upon the return of Lúthien and Beren.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 07-06-2020
Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.
This is actually part one of three. In this scene, Orothôn speaks to Iarûr about the return of Lúthien and Beren.
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Chapter VIII: The Rise of the Fall (Pt. IV)
The rumblings from Angband began as the sound distant thunder—the infrequent beating of the soul-less heart. Though nothing came from its depths as before, we were nonetheless well-equipped for battle. As time wore on, we became accustomed to the rumble. Iarûr worried we had become lax in our preparation for an attack from Morgoth. It had been a long period of calm at the borders of Doriath. The Girdle of Melian still protected us from even the subtlest changes in the world around us.
There were Men now and they were building kingdoms of their own. The naugrim had more contact with their race it was said whenever they came past our borders. King Thingol remained distraught over the loss of his beloved daughter even as he tried to resume his royal duties. He seemed unaware of the comings and goings of the court—much less of life beyond the gates of Menegroth.
We went about our lives with little understanding that our isolation was about to come to an abrupt end.
The day began as always—I rose to find myself alone as Mîrwen had let to attend to her duties for the queen. I went about my day in the library with Súlimë. After we finished, we made our way toward the main vestibule where we would part ways until dinner.
Before the had our chance, I noticed Eldôr and Oropher standing inside the gates. Oropher said something to Beleg before he went on his way.
“Oropher,” I began. “Is everything alright?”
“Yes, of course,” he answered. “Nothing out of the ordinary.”
“Not this day,” Eldôr added. “I would not presume to know what goes on near the borders.”
“I beg your pardon,” Súlimë asked.
“He speaks of the wanderings of the naugrim,” Oropher said. “They seem rather busy these days.”
“With what,” I asked curiously.
“You can never be too sure with them,” he said. “I have never seen creatures so industrious.”
“I am sure it is nothing they cannot handle,” I said thinking of Ónarr.
“They have tildes they have seen Daeron wandering in the East,” Eldôr said.
“Daeron,” I asked. “Was he not with Thingol when receiving Celebrían?”
“Yes,” Oropher said. “But she is no longer an elfling, you realize.
“Has it truly been that long,” Súlimë asked.
“Time passes as silently as it does quickly,” he said.
It was then that I realized how wise my son had become. Just as we were to retire for the evening with the setting of the sun, two guards came running toward us.
“What news have you,” Eldôr asked.
“They have come into Doriath,” one of the said catching his breath.
“When,” Oropher asked.
“I do not know when but they have journeyed long,” the other answered.
“Go,” Eldôr commanded. “Send word to Mablung quickly.”
The two elves moved swiftly past us and out of sight.
“Of whom do they speak,” I asked.
“Lúthien and her Beren,” Oropher answered. “They have returned.”–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 07-06-2020
Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.
We’re back from hiatus and just in time–it seems that Lúthien and Beren are about to return from their perilous journey.
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Chapter VIII: The Rise of the Fall (Pt. III)
The discussion was long since forgotten as time became routine once more. Life took on a malignant monotony that was tenuous at best. I knew the world was changing beyond the borders of Menegroth—Oropher would speak of it whenever he had the mind to wander near them to see for himself. As duty remained my shadow while I worked in the library, curiosity became the obligation of the younger generations.
It seemed all but King Thingol feared the loss of Lúthien, though his grief in her absence was felt throughout Menegroth. Iarûr would tell us often how fragile his emotions had become even as he attempted to appear as the mighty king he was before. Mîrwen would tell me how stoic queen Melian remained—her thoughts as distant as the stars. Whatever ancient wisdom or prophecy she knew, she kept to herself.
One day, while the ladies of the court were called to attend to Galadriel, I decided to leave the library with Súlwë for a short stroll outside. It seemed ages since we had seen the sun. The dimly lit caverns had started to remind me of the time before the rising of the Daystar.
It was a clear day—neither warm nor cool. The air was crisp but the wind still as we crossed the bridge.
“How is Galadriel,” I asked.
“From what Celeborn has told me, she is quite well,” Súlwë answered. “But I doubt either of us truly know what it is like to be with child.”
“Mîrwen says she is due any day,” I added.
“I hope so for Celeborn’s sake. His expression has been one of panic as of late.”
“How can you tell,” I asked teasingly.
Súlwë laughed softly.
“Let us hope this elfling brings some joy to Menegroth,” he said. “It is much needed.”
“Yes, it is,” I answered. “It is far too dark for the First-Born these days.”
“Darkness is everywhere, Orothôn,” he began. “I came from light that was dimmed by the very heart of that darkness. It shall linger far longer than our time.”
“Then perhaps this elfling will be a respite from it,” I whispered.
We walked in silence for a time—listening to the sounds of nature. Upon our return, we were met on the bridge by Finëar and Saeros.
“Orothôn,” Finëar said, his voice winded from running. “I have been looking everywhere for you.”
“For me,” I asked.
“You are part of the royal family, are you not,” Saeros asked.
“What is it,” I asked, gruffly.
“The Lady Galadriel has given birth to a daughter,” Finëar said. “Go on, now. Oropher has your place.”
Súlwë nodded and I took my leave into Menegroth. Once inside, Êlengolas was waiting.
“You are late,” he said.
“How can one be late for something that has no timetable,” I asked as we began walking toward our destination.
“We are Eldar,” he said. “We know everything.”
“We are male,” I added. “You must have us confused with the elleth.”
“I do not know about you, Orothôn, but I am married to one that cannot help but speak and I am compelled to listen.”
It was not long before we stood before two doors that was opened for us. I entered to see Galadriel lying in bed surrounded by the ladies of the court beside Queen Melian. I bowed to the Queen as Celeborn approached holding a tiny bundle with soft golden hair upon the whitest of skin.
“Is she not beautiful, Orothôn,” he asked beaming.
“Yes,” I said. “What do you call her?”
“Celebrían,” he said as his new daughter cooed.
“A beautiful name for a beautiful elfling,” I started. “What has the king said of her?”
“He has not seen her,” he said.
“Not seen her,” I asked. “I was told I was late.”
“He did not come,” Celeborn whispered. “Perhaps the birth of a daughter is too painful for him.”
In that moment, the doors opened again. It was King Thingol with Cúthalion and Mablung beside with Daeron and Saeros close behind.
“Your Majesty,” Celeborn and I said together.
“Is this the elfling born to Galadriel,” Thingol asked.
“Yes, Your Majesty,” Celeborn answered.
The king looked upon the child as she opened her eyes. A slight smile came across his face.
“She is beautiful,” he said. “What is her name?”
“Celebrían, Your Majesty,” Celeborn answered again.
“Fitting name,” Thingol began. “You and your wife have my warmest congratulations on the birth of your daughter. Melian, a word if I may.”
We bowed as the Queen walked across the room and left with her husband and his guard. Celebrían began to cry as Celeborn returned her to Galadriel. The room itself seemed to sigh in relief after King Thingol left. Oropher come to me from is place beside the other princes.
“We did not think he would come,” he whispered to me.
“Is that what the Queen said,” I asked.
“No, Iarûr.”
“He spoke with him prior?”
“Not that I am aware,” Oropher began. “But Angband has awakened once more.”
“Angband?”
“Something has brought it to life,” he said. “What is the question.”
I was afraid to know and knew better not to speculate. The day was good and I wanted it to remain as such.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 02-23-2020
Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.
In the absence of Lúthien, a new elfling is born–even as Angband begins to rumble.
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An excerpt from the upcoming excerpt that premieres at midnight . @tkwrtrilogy3
Chapter IX: The Reckoning (Pt. IV)
I was not in my chambers long before Mîrwen entered. She had a look of dread upon her face. I knew better than to inquire. She had spent much of her time with the Queen this day. With the departure of Thingol, I knew too well the fear in Melian’s heart. What she said to the court with her eyes, she spoke to her most trusted ladies.
“What is on your mind, Orothôn,” she asked as she walked by without a glance. “I could hear your thoughts in the hall.”
“I have nothing on my mind other than my concern for you.”
“As you well should,” she said. “But I would worry more for the fate of the Eldalië.”
“Why is that,” I began. “Do not speak to me in riddles, Mîrwen. Between you and Galadriel, on can hardly dismiss the look of puzzlement upon my face.”
“There is talk of war,” she said angrily. “Or do menfolk not speak of it anymore?”
“We speak of it,” I answered. “But why would ladies concern themselves with war?”
“We are far from immune by the affects of war,” she said. “We are wives and mothers of warriors.”
“Yes, you are,” I said. “And as such, it would be helpful if you would tell your warrior husband what you are trying to say.”
“Mother wishes to sail west.”
I looked at Mîrwen. From her expression, I could tell she knew I was stunned.
“What are you saying, Mîrwen?”
“Dark times are coming to us,” she began. “There will be death among us. Mother wishes for us to go where we should have gone a long time ago.”
I did not know what to say. Before I could think of something, there came a knock at the door.
“Enter,” I said without a backwards glance.
“Ada,” I heard Oropher say. I turned to see my son standing beside Amdir.
“Yes, Oropher,” I asked.
“You are wanted,” he said. “By Elmo.”
I nodded.
“See to your mother,” I whispered.
“Yes, Ada,” he answered.
“Elmo is with Iarûr in the library,” Amdir added.
I nodded, and made my way down the hall. As I turned down the corridor leading to the library, I met Êlengolas and Finëar.
“Have you two been summoned,” I asked.
“If by summoned you mean intentionally eavesdropping, then yes,” Êlengolas said with a smile. Finëar sighed in annoyance.
“Yes, he was called upon,” he said. “Êlengolas is one of our best warriors, if not our most trying. Angband rumbles again for that creature brought with it more than eyes.”
As we entered the library, several elves busied themselves with putting scrolls into trunks. Iarûr and Elmo stood in the farthest corner speaking quietly as Súlwë sat nearby. When they saw us approaching, we were greeted warmly.
“Orothôn,” Iarûr said. “Good of you to come.”
“I was told Elmo wished to see me,” I answered.
“Yes,” Elmo said. “Have you spoken to Mîrwen?”
“I have only briefly.”
“So, she has told you of Orowen’s desire to sail west.”
“Yes,” I answered. “I am afraid I do not understand.”
“I believe you do, Orothôn,” Elmo said. “It was you, after all, that heard my promise to my wife many years ago on our way to Doriath.”
Everything became clear to me in that moment. My mind returned to the forest beneath the stars.
“You have called me here to tell me we are to leave Doriath?”
“No,” he said softly. “Not just yet, but it is on the minds of many.”
“I find it difficult to fathom King Thingol leaving this world,” I said. “And if my memory serves, you said you would leave if you failed to convince your brother.”
“You memory serves you well,” he answered.
“The King will not leave Doriath,” Êlengolas said. “So long as his daughter remains, he is tethered forever to this land.”
“His daughter has given her love to a mortal,” Finëar added. “Now Elven blood will one day flow together with Atani for many generations.”
“Yes,” Elmo said softly. “I made a promise to my beloved, but I owe my allegiance to my brother.”
“So you wish to stay,” I asked.
“No,” Elmo answered. “I want to leave with my family before more Elven blood is shed.”
“Well, do it quickly,” Iarûr said. “That time will be upon us soon. More than elven blood will flow through this land.”
“Are you planning to leave as well,” I asked Iarûr.
“No,” he said. “I must stay. My fate is tied to another. But I will make my way home when it is is my time to do so.”
“When are you leaving, Elmo,” I asked.
“As soon as my brother returns, I shall tell him my plans so that I may prepare for our journey. You will be coming with us, yes?”
I did not answer. I had not given it much thought. Even after facing the evil of Morgoth, I had come to call Doriath my home.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 12-11-2021
Yep, we’re back. In this episode, there is talk of elves sailing West as their world grows darker. While Thingol and Beren go after the wolf Carcharoth, there is chatter of what may be coming.
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The Silmarillion aesthetic | The Hidden Kingdom | The Dreams of Doriath
..and this inner land, which was long named Eglador, was after called Doriath, the guarded kingdom, Land of the Girdle.
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Chapter IV: Darkness and Light (Pt. II)
Later, while I was alone in my chambers working on my heirloom, Mîrwen entered with a smile on her face.
“You spoke to Oropher,” she said as she threw her arms around my shoulders.
“Yes,” I said. “This pleases you?”
“I think Nimeithel is a wonderful match for him. So does Valdúmîr.”
“I do not think it is up to us,” I said. “The heart does what it will.”
“True,” she answered releasing me. “But it can use a little help now and then.”
“Whatever it is,” I began. “Do not tell me. I would rather leave some things to my imagination.”
“Very well,” Mîrwen answered. “But I had nothing to do with it.”
“I find that hard to believe, Mîrwen. The ladies of the court live for such intrigue.”
“We do not.”
I looked up from my work at my beloved. She had longed for this moment since Oropher could speak.
“He has yet to ask us for our blessing,” I added. “Try to contain your joy, if you will.”
“Do you know something,” she asked.
“No more than you.”
“You do know something,” she said sitting beside me. “What do you know, Orothôn?”
“I know he is waiting for the right moment. Let him come when it is time. He will do what is honorable.”
Mîrwen nodded.
“If I must,” she said softly. “He is a good son.”
“That he is,” I agreed. “I could not be more proud.”
“Shall we go to dinner,” she asked. “It is time.”
I put my work down and rose with her. We left our chambers and made our way to the great hall. When we arrived, we noticed more elves than usual. Across the room, I noticed Denethor with Arethuil. Beside them was a handsome young elf with a maiden of enchanting beauty. Denethor saw me and led the two elves toward me.
“Orothôn, these are my children. Gildúr and Annariel.”
They bowed to me.
“It is an honor to meet you,” I said.
“The honor is ours,” Gildúr said. “To meet the father of such a great warrior as Oropher is humbling.”
“I beg your pardon,” Mîrwen said.
“I have seen him myself,” Annariel whispered. “When I can, Your Highness. You must be proud.”
“I am,” Mîrwen said. I could hear the anger growing beneath royal protocol. “Quite proud.”
Before she could say another word, the call to dinner came. We all took our places—including Oropher beside his mother. We waited in uncomfortable silence until King Thingol and Queen Melian entered with their daughter Lúthien.
Once they were seated, everyone took their seats. I hoped for Mîrwen’s silence to continue through the end of our evening. Sitting across from us was Galathil and Celeborn—nearly himself unrecognizable as he was growing into manhood. Beside them sat their parents Galadhon and Celebriel. I could tell Galadhon has his eye on his sister.
“Mîrwen,” he whispered. “What bothers you?”
“Not a thing,” she whispered. “I am the proud mother of a great warrior.”
Oropher lowered his head. He looked at me and I shook my head. The silence between us continued until the end. When we rose, the silence was broken.
“If I may,” Oropher began. “I would like to call upon Nimeithel.”
As I nodded, Mîrwen spoke.
“You may not,” she answered.
“Mîrwen, let him go,” I said quietly. “You can speak with him upon his return.”
“I will speak with him now,” she said loudly.
The entire room fell silent. Elmo and Orowen looked toward us concerned.
“Mîrwen,” Galadhon whispered. “Not now I beg you.”
“If not now, when,” she asked. “When my son is a lifeless corpse on the field of battle?”
I wanted to hide. I could see Oropher was thinking the same.
“Mother,” he began. He was begging—something he had never done before.
“Please do not do this.”
“Daughter,” Elmo began. “Is there something you wish to say?”
I could see his son Galathil take a deep breath as his son Amdir looked on.
“My son is a great warrior,” Mîrwen started. “So I have heard. Why have I learned of this now, Father?”
“Do not be angry with anyone but me, Mother,” Oropher said. “It was at my request.”
“You are a child,” Mîrwen said. “You have no power to request anything.”
“I am no longer a child,” he said sternly. “If I can love, then I can fight. It is my duty to defend this land as my father and grandfather. I do not need your blessing for that nor do I expect it. But
I heard the sound of sobbing—several maidens had begun to cry. I looked at Mîrwen; somehow my son had made quite the impression. I could feel the room return to a sense of calm.
“Your son has a way with words,” Galadhon said.
“Yes,” I answered. “I am grateful for it.”
“May I call upon Nimeithel,” Oropher asked once more.
Mîrwen and I nodded together. He kissed his mother’s cheek and left us quickly.
“He is a good son,” I said to her. “You have raised him well.”
“We have raised him well,” she said taking my hand.
I kissed her. I knew she had accepted things to come. We returned to our chambers with some peace of mind.
**** **** **** ****
It began with the Marchwardens—King Thingol had ordered more to cover the borders of Doriath. Though things remained quiet, there was little doubt we were preparing for war.
In the days before the first battle, the naugrim were seen more often traveling the road between Nogrod and Doriath as well as within Menegroth. The cache of weapons seemed to swell over time.
There was never a time I was not on guard—every noise would turn my head as my heart would beat a little harder. Mîrwen tried her best to calm me but she was just as frightened.
Once I had finished my heirloom, I marveled at the thought of it being passed on generation to generation. I went to find Oropher. He was inside a keep looking over the land.
“I knew I would find you here,” I said to him as I approached.
“I was thinking to myself,” he said. “How beautiful Doriath is. I wonder what will become of it?”
“It will stand for as long as it should,” I answered.
He looked at me and smiled.
“I suppose,” he said. “Why were you looking for me?”
“I wished to give you something,” I began. “Perhaps make up for lost time with my only child.”
He gave me a curious look.
“I have spent my entire life with you, Ada. Whatever time was lost in your absence was sacrosanct to the service of the King.”
“I wish it had never been,” I said. “You should have been raised in Eldamar—far from this land we live in.”
“I know no other place
“It does exist,” I said, even though I doubted it myself now. “One day we will see it.”
Oropher nodded. I knew he was doing it for me to change the course of conversation.
“I wanted to give you this,” I said, showing him the medallion I had made. “I have been working on it since the very moment I learned of your conception.”
He took it from me and marveled at it for awhile.
“Thank you, Ada,” he finally said. “I will cherish it always.”
He embraced me tightly. When he let go, I could see tears in his eyes.
“Why are you sad, Oropher,” I asked.
“Will I return from battle,” he asked.
“I have little doubt that you will return.”
“I have asked Nimeithel for her hand,” he said softly. “I do not want her to become a widow before she becomes a bride.”
I was as happy as I was breathless.
“Are you asking for my blessing?”
“I am,” he answered.
“You do realize your mother will be absolutely delighted.”
“I know,” he said, laughing. “Grandmother said as much. It would seem Mother has been planning for this day since I was born.”
“You are too generous,” I said. “She has been planning this much longer than that.”
We laughed together. I realized how long I had lived. My son had come of age and was about to start a household of his own.
“I suppose it will be up to me to speak with Êlengolas,” I began. “That is far easier than asking the King.”
Oropher nodded. We stood looking out at Doriath. It was a beautiful land. Its future perils were yet unknown to us as we enjoyed the moment together.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 2-23-2019
Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved
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Chapter III: Doriath (Pt. V)
Long after the audience, I sat beneath a tree underneath the stars. It had been far too long since I had spent time outside that did not require preparing for a war against unknown forces. I thought about the naug—he was friendly enough though others found him beneath their stature in height and in existence. I thought more about his words. What did his people know about what lingered in the North?
As I thought to myself, I was making an heirloom to pass on to Oropher one day.
“I thought I would find you here,” I heard Mîrwen said.
“You spoke to Êlengolas, have you,” I said without looking away from my task.
“Of course,” she said sitting beside me. “Tell me, what is a naug?”
“A naug is rather small,” I answered.
“Is that all,” she giggled. “Oropher is rather small as well but I would hardly call him a naug.”
“Oropher is taller,” I answered putting my work away. “They are small fully grown. They come from the mountains East of Beleriand where they reside.”
“What do you think of these creatures,” she asked me.
“Our time was short and I only met one of them,” I said. “He seemed wise and was pleasant enough.”
“Nana says their kind helped to build Menegroth but said little else on the matter.”
“Has she seen them?”
“No,” Mîrwen answered. “Is it true they had a hand it its foundation?”
“Iarûr said as much,” I began. “He knows many things. I take him at his word.”
“If these creatures created such things of beauty, then they must be good at heart.”
“Perhaps,” I said. “Enough about the naugrim.”
I kissed her. She smiled at me.
“What do you wish to talk about, Orothôn,” she whispered.
“Why must we talk about anything,” I asked as I kissed her again.
“Because,” she whispered. “Talking would have a far smaller audience.”
Mîrwen motioned for me to look away. I saw a few curious elven boys watching us. I recognized the smallest as Celeborn, the youngest son of Galadhon among them—a look of perplexity across his face.
“Oropher,” he began. “Those are your parents.”
“Yes,” my son said with a smirk across his face. “So they are.”
“Why are they out here,” another chimed in.
“Because, Amdir,” I started as I rose, offering Mîrwen my hand. “We thought we were alone.”
“You should go to one of the keeps,” Eldôr said. “That is where my parents go.”
All heads turned to Eldôr.
“To do what,” Celeborn asked innocently. “What could you do up there?”
“I shall explain when you are older,” Galathil said.
“Why are you boys out here,” Mîrwen asked.
“We were sent to find the girls,” Galathil answered. “On the orders of King Thingol.”
“The girls,” I asked.
“Yes,” Eldôr said. “The Lady Lúthien is quite lively. She takes to wandering frequently. Nimeithel and Valdúril are no help at all. They give in to her every whim.”
“She takes after her mother,” Mîrwen said under her breath.
“Then we saw you,” Celeborn added with a smile.
“So you did,” Mîrwen said, leaning down to his height. “Would you care to escort a maiden into the palace?”
“Yes,” he said eagerly.
“I shall see you inside,” she said to me.
As they left, I turned to Galathil and the others.
“I know the king would not send ones so young to find his daughter unless there was discord sown between them.”
They stood in silence before me—their expressions attempting to hide their thoughts.
“No more than one would expect between a parent and a child,” Galathil answered. “But in times such as these, there is much to worry about.”
“What have you heard,” I asked. I was in awe at Galathil’s demeanor—he had grown wise beyond his years.
“Father those me the reasons why the Eldalië prepare for war. An ancient evil resides in this world.”
“What is this evil,” I asked. I was hoping he would say what others would not.
“He would not say for the time of revelation has not come.”
“Does Galadhon know when that time comes,” I asked.
Before he could answer, we heard the sound of young maidens laughing. Four beautiful elven girls spoke among themselves as they approached. They stopped abruptly.
“Galathil,” the fairest of them began. “Where you looking for me?”
“Yes, Lúthien,” he said. “You know well I was.”
I recognized all but one—a quiet elf whose eyes had fallen on Amdir as his eyes were upon her.
“I know of the dangers of this world,” Lúthien continued. “I would never wander too far from the gates. My father has little to worry about. I would never put my ladies in harm’s way.”
Lúthien’s eyes fell upon me—her wonder as disarming as her beauty.
“You are Orothôn,” she asked. “Father of Oropher?”
“Yes, Your Highness, I said softly.
She smiled at me and nodded as she motioned to Nimeithel, Valdúril, and the other as they continued on their way into the palace.
“You do not recognize her,” Oropher whispered to me. “The other elleth. She is Anadriel, sister of Eäros.”
I looked at her once more.
“So it is,” I whispered. “Time has been good to her.”
“Lúthien goes her own way,” Galathil grumbled. “For all her beauty, it will be hard to find a suitor for her.”
“She will find one on her own,” Eldôr said. “I can only imagine who he will be.”
“Come,” I began. “We need to make our way inside.”
At that moment, there came a low rumble and a shaking from beneath. It reminded me of a time before we left Lake Cuiviénen. This was something beyond this world. We looked at one another. We knew things were about to change our lives forever.
**** **** **** ****
I entered my chambers to find them empty. Mîrwen must be with her mother, I thought to myself. I took from my pocket the heirloom I was creating. I managed to shape the wood I took from our first sanctuary long ago. Fashioned within pieces of nature along our journey. I placed it inside a small wooden box.
I looked around—the silence was unnerving. I went into Oropher’s chambers. He was not there. Though I felt my fear misplaced, that did not keep my mind from chaos. I decided that everyone was on their way to supper. I was not hungry. I lay down on the bed and closed my eyes.
There was destruction and flames everywhere. The clashing of swords and shields rang throughout the land. Tears fell from the eyes of mothers and their children. Amidst the battle cries, I heard a voice calling my name.
“Orothôn,” the voice called to me.
I look around but could not find the source. I realized I was standing in a sea of the fallen. The voice continued to call my name.
“Where are you,” I yelled over the sounds of war. “Where are you?”
I looked in all directions but could not find the voice.
“I am here,” I heard the voice in my ear. I turned to see an elf with golden hair and soft grey eyes.
“Who are you,” I asked him. He said nothing. He looked toward the battles. I asked him again.
“Who are you?”
He looked at me. There was a familiarity I saw in him.
“I am Orothôn,” he said. “But known by another name to last forever.”
“By what name,” I asked. “Tell me.”
As he was about to speak, all things fell into darkness. I was alone in nothingness.
“Who are you,” I yelled. “Where are you?”
“I am here,” a voice said. “Look at me.”
I opened my eyes to see Mîrwen looking down at me.
“Were you having a vision, Orothôn,” she asked.
“No,” I lied sitting up. “I am not as you.”
“I am not alone in that gift,” she said smiling. “Some choose to use it while others choose to ignore it. Then there are those that do not have the choice. They will see what the Heavens wish them to see.”
She slipped behind her dressing courier and emerged ready for the evening.
“What did you see,” she asked sitting beside me.
“It was not pleasant,” I answered. “Nothing I would dare tell another.“
“There is nothing pleasant about war, Orothôn.”
“How would you know,” I asked.
She looked at me—her eyes filling with tears.
“I have seen what you have seen,” she whispered. “I know the horrors that will come to pass.”
“Then I will spare you the details,” I said embracing her. “We will keep them to ourselves.”–TKWR Trilogy Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller 01-25-2019.
Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter III: Doriath (Pt. II)
As we walked toward the distant tree line, I noticed the world around us. It seemed to change before my eyes. The colors were more vivid than ever before as the starlight burned brighter. Shapes became shadows as we passed by figures of nature. I felt things unknown lingering in the darkness. I felt a tug on my robe.
“Ada,” Oropher chimed as he struggled to keep up. “I am afraid.”
I picked him up and he put his arms around and buried his face into chest. Mîrwen looked at me—her eyes filled with fear. She took hold of my other hand tightly as the low hum of voices began their familiar tune. The closer to our destination we came, the louder the voices.
We walked together slowly—every step anticipating a remarkable moment that would reveal paradise or send our souls into darkness. I could feel my heart rising into my throat and my thoughts failed me when our march ended abruptly at the edge of the forest.
“Aúrion,” Eäros called as he came forward with another of his kin. They stood quietly before us looking or listening for someone. Suddenly several elves came out of the trees armed with strange accoutrements I would come to learn were weapons of war.
They whispered among themselves briefly before one elf emerged. He was nearly ethereal—his long golden hair framed a shocking face as strong as it was delicate. He bowed to Elmo and Orowen.
“We have been expecting you,” the elf began. “Your brother the king awaits you. I am Daeron. If you will, follow me.”
Elmo nodded and we followed him into the forest. In an instant of crossing the threshold, there was an overwhelming feeling of calm. There was an enchanting beauty far different from when we came. I wondered if we had finally come into Eldamar. There were creatures I had never seen wandering beneath a canopy of mystical treetops. Higher still, the Heavens seem to shine brighter for the light of the stars were as countless lanterns of endless light.
Beneath our feet the ground was soft; we walked on air. Our journey seemed worth the years of unknowing. Before long, I noticed a familiar face.
“Greetings, my friend,” he said joining me. “It has been quite some time.”
“Denethor,” I said. “You are here?”
“I am,” he answered. “I wished to see you to King Thingol.”
I was happy to see him again but I felt there was something he was hiding. I said nothing—I did not want to alarm my family.
“How is Arethuil,” I asked.
“She is well,” he began. “We have little ones of our own. Who do you call your son, if I may inquire?”
“He is Oropher,” I said proudly.
Oropher looked at Denethor—inspecting him carefully. When he approved, he nodded.
“Oropher. What a noble name,” Denethor said. “Fit for a king.”
I smiled as we continued on our way. Mîrwen said nothing—her mind elsewhere. When we came upon a long stone bridge over a powerful raging river, two guards stood ready to lead us across to the magnificent gates that secured all that lived within.
Slowly we mad our way across—a band of wanderers hardly prepared to meet anyone, much less a mighty king. As we moved closer to the gates they were opened to us. The halls were dim—lit by lanterns throughout save the Great Hall of Thingol. It bore the light of lanterns with the natural light of the stars high above. The breath-taking elegance was made greater by the appearance of Elwë known as King Thingol.
He wore a robe of sliver and white. It was in this light I could see the beauty of my kin around me. He came to us joyously.
“Elmo,” he said embracing him. “How I have missed you. Orowen.”
She smiled and paid obeisance as the rest of us did obediently.
“It is good to you again,” Elmo said. “If not in Eldamar where our brother resides. I must ask what reason have you found to stay?”
Thingol motioned to Daeron. He left us as Thingol’s smile grew wider. He turned a glance to his left as Daeron returned escorting the most beautiful creature anyone had ever seen.
“This is my wife and queen, Melian,” Thingol said taking her hand and kissing it.
“Welcome to Menegroth,” she said. Her voice had a sound from eternity that rang from a knowledge of time. She had long dark hair and eyes of a color that could not be described as they defied all things earthbound.
“You must be tired and hungry,” Thingol continued. Daeron, show my brother and his court to their living quarters. Once you all have rested, we shall feast.”
Daeron once again led us away. The few of the court—made up of Iarûr, Êlengolas, Valdôr and their households—came with us. In that, I felt better about making this my new home. After traversing through endless stone paths, we were shown our quarters. Guarded by two elves, they opened the doors and we entered. The ceilings were vaulted—carve with such detail I wondered how the artisans found the time. There was a very large hearth and fireplace beside a wardrobe. To our delight, a door beside our bed let to another room for Oropher.
“Shall I take Oropher to bed,” I heard Amareth say.
I looked to see that Oropher had fallen asleep. In all the enchantments I hardly felt him in my arms.
“Thank you, Amareth,” I said handing him to her. When they were gone, I turned to Mîrwen. She was sitting at the end of the bed looking into the hollow fireplace.
“Talk to me, Mîrwen,” I said joining her.
“She is quite beautiful,” she began softly.
“Queen Melian,” I said. “She is.”
“She is not one of us,” she said.
I did not say a word to her. I touched her face gently. She looked at me. I could see she wanted to speak but I shook my head. I kissed her lips.
“We will speak after dinner,” I whispered. She nodded and put her head on my shoulder. Before long, servants arrived and dressed us for dinner. When we were ready, we left our room and made our way through the winding paths to the banquet hall that was even more magnificent than the throne room.
The table was the length of the room and elegantly dressed with plates and utensils of the finest craftsmanship. Everyone was present—including Denethor and Arethuil. We sat near them as well as Galadhon and Celebriel who was visibly with child.
“When are you due,” Arethuil asked her.
“Quite possibly after dinner,” Galadhon teased.
“That would be far too much to wish for,” Celebriel said as she sat down. “But I know he will come into this work inside the safety of this palace and for this I am grateful.”
Before another word could be said, Thingol and Melian entered the hall with Elmo and Orowen. We stood for them. Once they were seated we sat down to be served. Galathil and Nárwen found themselves near us.
“Where is Níndi,” Mîrwen asked Galadhon. “I have not see her since we came into Doriath.”
“I suspect she is with Eäros,” Galadhon answered. “She thinks her father is unaware of her love for him.”
“So you approve of him,” I asked as Êlengolas, Valdôr, Finëar and their wives joined us.
“Do I have a choice,” Galadhon asked. “I have little control over the heart. I think her too young to marry but her mother thinks otherwise. I am not fool enough to disagree with my wife. I must live with her for eternity.”
“You are wise,” Celebriel said smiling.
“Tell me, Denethor,” I began. “You have children, you say?”
“Yes,” he said. “A boy and a girl. They are young; not quite old enough to be betrothed.”
“Be thankful,” Êlengolas said. “I have girls and I wish nothing more than for them to stay as they—repelled by boys. Though I believe my Nimeithel has found a friend in Orothôn’s son Oropher.”
Mîrwen laughed for the first time in a long while. That made me smile.
“I am curious as to why you are so far from where we last saw you,” Galathil asked Denethor. “What brings you into Beleriand?”
“Something lingers in darkness,” he said softly. “I cannot say what it is but for the safety of my people I asked for refuge and King Thingol gave it willingly. For that, I am indebted to him.”
“What darkness,” Valdôr asked curiously. “What else is out there but elves?”
“Not just elves,” Thingol said from end of the table. I wonder how he heard us. “There are many things out there beyond these caverns. Some are harmless and some wish to do harm. The world is changing and it grows darker. But for better or for worse I remain here for there are some things in this world greater than fear.”
He took his wife’s hand and kissed it. I turned to Mîrwen—she was no longer smiling. Everyone at in silence.–TKWR Trilogy Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller 10-27-2018.
Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter IX: The Reckoning (Pt. IV)
I was not in my chambers long before Mîrwen entered. She had a look of dread upon her face. I knew better than to inquire. She had spent much of her time with the Queen this day. With the departure of Thingol, I knew too well the fear in Melian’s heart. What she said to the court with her eyes, she spoke to her most trusted ladies.
“What is on your mind, Orothôn,” she asked as she walked by without a glance. “I could hear your thoughts in the hall.”
“I have nothing on my mind other than my concern for you.”
“As you well should,” she said. “But I would worry more for the fate of the Eldalië.”
“Why is that,” I began. “Do not speak to me in riddles, Mîrwen. Between you and Galadriel, on can hardly dismiss the look of puzzlement upon my face.”
“There is talk of war,” she said angrily. “Or do menfolk not speak of it anymore?”
“We speak of it,” I answered. “But why would ladies concern themselves with war?”
“We are far from immune by the affects of war,” she said. “We are wives and mothers of warriors.”
“Yes, you are,” I said. “And as such, it would be helpful if you would tell your warrior husband what you are trying to say.”
“Mother wishes to sail west.”
I looked at Mîrwen. From her expression, I could tell she knew I was stunned.
“What are you saying, Mîrwen?”
“Dark times are coming to us,” she began. “There will be death among us. Mother wishes for us to go where we should have gone a long time ago.”
I did not know what to say. Before I could think of something, there came a knock at the door.
“Enter,” I said without a backwards glance.
“Ada,” I heard Oropher say. I turned to see my son standing beside Amdir.
“Yes, Oropher,” I asked.
“You are wanted,” he said. “By Elmo.”
I nodded.
“See to your mother,” I whispered.
“Yes, Ada,” he answered.
“Elmo is with Iarûr in the library,” Amdir added.
I nodded, and made my way down the hall. As I turned down the corridor leading to the library, I met Êlengolas and Finëar.
“Have you two been summoned,” I asked.
“If by summoned you mean intentionally eavesdropping, then yes,” Êlengolas said with a smile. Finëar sighed in annoyance.
“Yes, he was called upon,” he said. “Êlengolas is one of our best warriors, if not our most trying. Angband rumbles again for that creature brought with it more than eyes.”
As we entered the library, several elves busied themselves with putting scrolls into trunks. Iarûr and Elmo stood in the farthest corner speaking quietly as Súlwë sat nearby. When they saw us approaching, we were greeted warmly.
“Orothôn,” Iarûr said. “Good of you to come.”
“I was told Elmo wished to see me,” I answered.
“Yes,” Elmo said. “Have you spoken to Mîrwen?”
“I have only briefly.”
“So, she has told you of Orowen’s desire to sail west.”
“Yes,” I answered. “I am afraid I do not understand.”
“I believe you do, Orothôn,” Elmo said. “It was you, after all, that heard my promise to my wife many years ago on our way to Doriath.”
Everything became clear to me in that moment. My mind returned to the forest beneath the stars.
“You have called me here to tell me we are to leave Doriath?”
“No,” he said softly. “Not just yet, but it is on the minds of many.”
“I find it difficult to fathom King Thingol leaving this world,” I said. “And if my memory serves, you said you would leave if you failed to convince your brother.”
“You memory serves you well,” he answered.
“The King will not leave Doriath,” Êlengolas said. “So long as his daughter remains, he is tethered forever to this land.”
“His daughter has given her love to a mortal,” Finëar added. “Now Elven blood will one day flow together with Atani for many generations.”
“Yes,” Elmo said softly. “I made a promise to my beloved, but I owe my allegiance to my brother.”
“So you wish to stay,” I asked.
“No,” Elmo answered. “I want to leave with my family before more Elven blood is shed.”
“Well, do it quickly,” Iarûr said. “That time will be upon us soon. More than elven blood will flow through this land.”
“Are you planning to leave as well,” I asked Iarûr.
“No,” he said. “I must stay. My fate is tied to another. But I will make my way home when it is is my time to do so.”
“When are you leaving, Elmo,” I asked.
“As soon as my brother returns, I shall tell him my plans so that I may prepare for our journey. You will be coming with us, yes?”
I did not answer. I had not given it much thought. Even after facing the evil of Morgoth, I had come to call Doriath my home.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 12-11-2021
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Chapter IX: The Reckoning (Pt. II)
As it was told to me sometime later: the whole of Doriath stood still that day. No wind blew through the trees and nary a forest creature could be seen. Time seemed to stop within our borders. Even within the halls of Menegroth there was an unsettled anticipation. Silence filled every chamber and the only sound heard was our footsteps—like heartbeats they filled our ears with anxious desire for a return to normalcy. This day would never be forgotten in the annals of time. Yet in the moment, one could forget there was ever a time such as this to remember.
It was the day Lady Lúthien and her Beren would return to Menegroth. Even as the day began as always, an uneasy excitement whispered through its hallowed halls.
I was called upon by Elmo and Orowen to receive the returning couple with the rest of the family. I had met the request with some doubt—for I feared it was all in vain. Nonetheless, I acquiesced for the sake of Mîrwen.
At sunrise on that day, I rose to find Mîrwen standing across our chamber draped in her robe and staring upward.
“Mîrwen,” I began. “Is something the matter?”
“Would you think ill of me if I were to say I wished this day had never come,” she asked softly.
“You know I could never think ill of you,” I said as I got up and walked over to her. “May I asked why you fell this way?”
She turned toward me; her eyes felt like daggers through my heart.
“I know of your visions, Orothôn,” she said. “I know you have seen was is to come and it will be this day that casts its long shadow upon this world.”
“What are you saying,” I asked.
“You know well what I am saying,” she snapped.
“If I did, my love, I would know how to answer.”
“Why did you say nothing to me of what you have seen,” she demanded.
“I did not wish to upset you,” I said. “It would appear I had just cause.”
“I am not amused, Orothôn,” she said.
“Nor am I, Mîrwen. What has brought you to this, dare I ask?”
“I know far more than you think,” she said.
“Well, that would not surprise me as you spend your days with the ladies of the court,” I answered. “I can only begin to imagine what you talk about when your husbands are not around.”
“We do not discuss Súlwë,” she said.
Words escaped me.
“Where did you hear that name,” I asked.
“It does not matter from where I heard it,” she answered as her voice seemed darker. “What matters is he knows the reason why this day has come. Your visions are what lies in the future this day foreshadows.”
“Mîrwen, please,” I said softly. “No more.”
“For now,” she whispered as we heard a knock at the door. “Enter.”
Servants entered the room to dress us for the day.
“I will tell you as much as I can,” I whispered.
“No, Orothôn. You will tell me all that you know.”
She smiled and motioned to her dressers and disappeared behind her screen.
I made my way to my attendants and we were dressed in silence. When we were ready, Mîrwen and I entered the hall where we met Oropher and Nimeithel.
“Ada,” he said. “You clean up nicely. How long has it been since we have had the occasion to be so formal?”
“It has been too long,” I answered.
We began making our way to the main vestibule. I put aside the events of the morning the closer to the throne we came. Not since we first entered into Menegroth had it looked so festive. I allowed myself a moment of much needed peace.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 09-22-2020
Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter IX: The Reckoning (Pt. I)
The court began buzzing with delight with news of Lúthien’s return. Iarûr was the only one among us whose demeanor remained solemn. When I had the opportunity later in the evening, I found him in his chambers alone at his writing table. I entered cautiously through is opened door.
“Pleas come in, Orothôn,” he said without looking up form his work.
“I am not interrupting your work,” I asked.
“No,” he said looking up. “There was no work to be done this hour. I was putting my thoughts down for my own remembrance of this day.”
“It is this day I wished to speak to you about,” I said.
“I know,” he sewered. “You are quite perceptive. If you thought the news of this day troubled me, then you were correct.”
“It is wonderful news,” I said. “The return of the king’s daughter will make this kingdom whole once more.”
“You are naive in your optimism,” Iarûr said sternly. “It will serve you well on the darkest night but in the light of day, you must acknowledge reality.”
“I do not understand.”
“N one returns from Angband as they entered,” he said softly. “I can only imagine the horrors of the Lady Lúthien must have seen. No one can witness such evil without losing part of themselves.”
“The king will be happy once more,” I said almost pleading with him.
“Yes, he will,” he agreed. “But it will be short-lived, Orothôn. I am afraid this world will never be the same again. It is changing, my friend. The elements of good and evil have intermingled creating seasons not so easily discernible.”
I could say nothing—I just stood there thinking about those words as they seared a hole in my heart. Now I feared what may come to us upon the return of Lúthien and Beren.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 07-06-2020
Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter VIII: The Rise of the Fall (Pt. IV)
The rumblings from Angband began as the sound distant thunder—the infrequent beating of the soul-less heart. Though nothing came from its depths as before, we were nonetheless well-equipped for battle. As time wore on, we became accustomed to the rumble. Iarûr worried we had become lax in our preparation for an attack from Morgoth. It had been a long period of calm at the borders of Doriath. The Girdle of Melian still protected us from even the subtlest changes in the world around us.
There were Men now and they were building kingdoms of their own. The naugrim had more contact with their race it was said whenever they came past our borders. King Thingol remained distraught over the loss of his beloved daughter even as he tried to resume his royal duties. He seemed unaware of the comings and goings of the court—much less of life beyond the gates of Menegroth.
We went about our lives with little understanding that our isolation was about to come to an abrupt end.
The day began as always—I rose to find myself alone as Mîrwen had let to attend to her duties for the queen. I went about my day in the library with Súlimë. After we finished, we made our way toward the main vestibule where we would part ways until dinner.
Before the had our chance, I noticed Eldôr and Oropher standing inside the gates. Oropher said something to Beleg before he went on his way.
“Oropher,” I began. “Is everything alright?”
“Yes, of course,” he answered. “Nothing out of the ordinary.”
“Not this day,” Eldôr added. “I would not presume to know what goes on near the borders.”
“I beg your pardon,” Súlimë asked.
“He speaks of the wanderings of the naugrim,” Oropher said. “They seem rather busy these days.”
“With what,” I asked curiously.
“You can never be too sure with them,” he said. “I have never seen creatures so industrious.”
“I am sure it is nothing they cannot handle,” I said thinking of Ónarr.
“They have tildes they have seen Daeron wandering in the East,” Eldôr said.
“Daeron,” I asked. “Was he not with Thingol when receiving Celebrían?”
“Yes,” Oropher said. “But she is no longer an elfling, you realize.
“Has it truly been that long,” Súlimë asked.
“Time passes as silently as it does quickly,” he said.
It was then that I realized how wise my son had become. Just as we were to retire for the evening with the setting of the sun, two guards came running toward us.
“What news have you,” Eldôr asked.
“They have come into Doriath,” one of the said catching his breath.
“When,” Oropher asked.
“I do not know when but they have journeyed long,” the other answered.
“Go,” Eldôr commanded. “Send word to Mablung quickly.”
The two elves moved swiftly past us and out of sight.
“Of whom do they speak,” I asked.
“Lúthien and her Beren,” Oropher answered. “They have returned.”–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 07-06-2020
Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter VIII: The Rise of the Fall (Pt. III)
The discussion was long since forgotten as time became routine once more. Life took on a malignant monotony that was tenuous at best. I knew the world was changing beyond the borders of Menegroth—Oropher would speak of it whenever he had the mind to wander near them to see for himself. As duty remained my shadow while I worked in the library, curiosity became the obligation of the younger generations.
It seemed all but King Thingol feared the loss of Lúthien, though his grief in her absence was felt throughout Menegroth. Iarûr would tell us often how fragile his emotions had become even as he attempted to appear as the mighty king he was before. Mîrwen would tell me how stoic queen Melian remained—her thoughts as distant as the stars. Whatever ancient wisdom or prophecy she knew, she kept to herself.
One day, while the ladies of the court were called to attend to Galadriel, I decided to leave the library with Súlwë for a short stroll outside. It seemed ages since we had seen the sun. The dimly lit caverns had started to remind me of the time before the rising of the Daystar.
It was a clear day—neither warm nor cool. The air was crisp but the wind still as we crossed the bridge.
“How is Galadriel,” I asked.
“From what Celeborn has told me, she is quite well,” Súlwë answered. “But I doubt either of us truly know what it is like to be with child.”
“Mîrwen says she is due any day,” I added.
“I hope so for Celeborn’s sake. His expression has been one of panic as of late.”
“How can you tell,” I asked teasingly.
Súlwë laughed softly.
“Let us hope this elfling brings some joy to Menegroth,” he said. “It is much needed.”
“Yes, it is,” I answered. “It is far too dark for the First-Born these days.”
“Darkness is everywhere, Orothôn,” he began. “I came from light that was dimmed by the very heart of that darkness. It shall linger far longer than our time.”
“Then perhaps this elfling will be a respite from it,” I whispered.
We walked in silence for a time—listening to the sounds of nature. Upon our return, we were met on the bridge by Finëar and Saeros.
“Orothôn,” Finëar said, his voice winded from running. “I have been looking everywhere for you.”
“For me,” I asked.
“You are part of the royal family, are you not,” Saeros asked.
“What is it,” I asked, gruffly.
“The Lady Galadriel has given birth to a daughter,” Finëar said. “Go on, now. Oropher has your place.”
Súlwë nodded and I took my leave into Menegroth. Once inside, Êlengolas was waiting.
“You are late,” he said.
“How can one be late for something that has no timetable,” I asked as we began walking toward our destination.
“We are Eldar,” he said. “We know everything.”
“We are male,” I added. “You must have us confused with the elleth.”
“I do not know about you, Orothôn, but I am married to one that cannot help but speak and I am compelled to listen.”
It was not long before we stood before two doors that was opened for us. I entered to see Galadriel lying in bed surrounded by the ladies of the court beside Queen Melian. I bowed to the Queen as Celeborn approached holding a tiny bundle with soft golden hair upon the whitest of skin.
“Is she not beautiful, Orothôn,” he asked beaming.
“Yes,” I said. “What do you call her?”
“Celebrían,” he said as his new daughter cooed.
“A beautiful name for a beautiful elfling,” I started. “What has the king said of her?”
“He has not seen her,” he said.
“Not seen her,” I asked. “I was told I was late.”
“He did not come,” Celeborn whispered. “Perhaps the birth of a daughter is too painful for him.”
In that moment, the doors opened again. It was King Thingol with Cúthalion and Mablung beside with Daeron and Saeros close behind.
“Your Majesty,” Celeborn and I said together.
“Is this the elfling born to Galadriel,” Thingol asked.
“Yes, Your Majesty,” Celeborn answered.
The king looked upon the child as she opened her eyes. A slight smile came across his face.
“She is beautiful,” he said. “What is her name?”
“Celebrían, Your Majesty,” Celeborn answered again.
“Fitting name,” Thingol began. “You and your wife have my warmest congratulations on the birth of your daughter. Melian, a word if I may.”
We bowed as the Queen walked across the room and left with her husband and his guard. Celebrían began to cry as Celeborn returned her to Galadriel. The room itself seemed to sigh in relief after King Thingol left. Oropher come to me from is place beside the other princes.
“We did not think he would come,” he whispered to me.
“Is that what the Queen said,” I asked.
“No, Iarûr.”
“He spoke with him prior?”
“Not that I am aware,” Oropher began. “But Angband has awakened once more.”
“Angband?”
“Something has brought it to life,” he said. “What is the question.”
I was afraid to know and knew better not to speculate. The day was good and I wanted it to remain as such.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 02-23-2020
Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter VIII: The Rise of the Fall (Pt. II)
It was much later after Eöl had left that I learned why he ventured into Doriath. He was repaying a debt known only to him and King Things. Only a few days later would I learn more.
Iarûr had sent me on an errand to the armory to give a scroll to Finëar. Once I had arrived, I saw a familiar face.
“Ónarr,” I said, surprised. “I have not seen you since the dreaded war of the Dark Year.”
“Good to see you again, Orothôn,” he said as he took my hand. “Even one life spared among many lost is a blessing.”
“Finëar,” I said, handing him the scroll. “From Iarûr.”
“Thank you,” he said taking it and began reading.
“How have you been,” Ónarr continued. “My condolences to Eldôr on the loss of his father.”
“I will send word to him,” I answered. “It will lighten his heart to know.”
“I have not seen many of your kind for some time,” he said. “Not since the arrival of those new creatures.”
“You refer to the Atani,” I asked.
“If that is what you call them,” he laughed. “They are a cunning lot. They are quick-witted if I may add.”
“I am afraid my time with their kind is limited at best. I have not seen one in quite awhile.”
Finëar cleared his throat—I could tell he was bothered by our conversation.
“It says that the king wishes to place that gift for safe keeping in the armory,” Finëar said. “Has he gone mad?”
“I beg your pardon,” I asked.
“That sword Eöl gave to the king,” he answered. “Did he not tell you why you were sent?”
“I am afraid not, Finëar,” I said.
“You speak of Gurthang,” Ónarr asked.
“Come again,” Finëar asked him.
“The sword,” Ónarr answered. “The Elf-Smith Eöl forged it himself. I saw him do it with my own two eyes.”
“I am to assume you helped to create it,” Finëar asked glaring at the dwarf in disdain.
“My duties lie elsewhere,” Ónarr said. “Though I know my way around the fires, I am a master of stone. Mîm might have a notion.”
“There is a name I have not heard in a time,” Finëar said, calming down. “Was its creation ordered by Azaghâl?”
“If His Majesty requested such a thing be made, I have not heard of it.”
“I suppose you would not, Ónarr,” Finëar said. “I know much your time is sacrosanct these days. How is Finrod, if I may inquire?”
“Quite well,” Ónarr said. “He sends his greetings to you.
I sensed something unusual in his voice as it grew softer. I felt he knew something but wished to keep it from us.
“Orothôn,” Finëar said to me. “Tell Iarûr I shall harbor this sword for now. When I find a place for it, let he be the only one to bring it to me. I have little doubt that such a weapon in the wrong hands could be catastrophic. Especially one so forged by Eöl. Who knows what machinations go through his mind.”
I nodded. I looked again at Ónarr.
“It was a pleasure to see you again,” I said.
“For me as well,” he answered.
I turned and left. In the hall, I nearly ran into Saeros.
“Many pardons,” he said. “Has Ónarr left?”
“No,” I answered curiously. “He is with Finëar now.”
“Thank you,” he said hurriedly as he went into the armory. Something piqued my curiosity. I leaned against the wall in the darkness to listen.
“What word have you from Telchar,” Saeros asked. “Has he not forged many weapons of late?”
“Aye, he has,” Ónarr said. “Most of which I am not privy to though one such weapon is in the hands of one they call Beren.”
“Have you seen this Beren,” Finëar asked. “Where is he?”
“I would not know that,” Ónarr answered. “It has been a long time since I laid eyes on him. Where he was going he will not return.”
“I suppose not,” Saeros said.
“You wish to know about the King’s daughter,” Ónarr asked.
“You know where she is,” Finëar asked excitedly.
“I saw her once, but no more,” he answered. “She took to the wind you might well say.”
“Even the wind has direction,” Saeros snapped.
“So it does,” Ónarr quipped. “And neither she nor the wind were going in mine.”
“What are you doing,” a voice said. I turned to see Êlengolas. I put my finger to my mouth.
“Well,” Finëar continued. “Should either one find their way anywhere near you, I suggest you send word to King Thingol as quickly as possible.”
“I will gladly do as you command,” Ónarr said.
I quickly led Êlengolas down the hall into darkness as I heard footsteps heading toward the door. The three left the armory together without suspicion.
“You realize it is unseemly to listen to the private business of others,” Êlengolas said.
“When you stop doing it, then tell me again how unseemly it is,” I answered.
“Was that Ónarr of Nogrod,” he asked.
“Yes,” I said. “He has seen Lúthien.”
“When?”
“He did not say.”
“Orothôn, the whole point of secretly overhearing private business is to actually glean some useful information.”
“I believe she has followed Beren on his quest.”
Êlengolas looked at me, his brow raised.
“Could you be more specific,” he asked.
“Êlengolas.”
“Where else would she have gone,” he asked. “If such an event had happened, then she will return upon the news of his death.”
“You think a messenger from Angband is going to send her word to Menegroth saying, ‘We regret to inform you we have killed the beloved of the King’s daughter.’”
“It is Angband,” Êlengolas began. “They would not be so inclined to be courteous.”
“It is also a place no one returns from,” I said. “All I am saying is that she is still with us.”
“Not if she followed Beren on his quest,” Êlengolas said. “Do not tell anyone—especially your wife. She will tell half the ladies in the court and create a false sense of hope.”
“False sense of hope,” I asked.
“Yes,” he began. “If she indeed has followed him anywhere, there is little hope she will return. Not without him. Come, it is almost time for dinner.”
I sighed and reluctantly followed him toward the Great Hall. I could not help wondering what Ónarr did not say and how much he knew.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 11-28-2019
Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter VIII: The Rise of the Fall (Pt. I)
The day began as usual—the court of Menegroth went about its routine catering to the whims of King Thingol and Queen Melian. On this day, in spite of the endless blue skies and nature rendered to the height of its beauty, the loss of Lúthien weighed heavy on our hearts. Then, he came—an elf of unknown origins approached the gates of Menegroth.
I was standing inside the vestibule the the gates were opened as he approached.
“What business have you in Doriath,” one of the guards asked the elf with hair as dark as night.
“I have come to see Her Majesty, Queen Melian,” the elf said softly—his crystal grey eyes startling the guard as he glanced at him. “I am Eöl of Nan Elmoth.”
Iarûr appeared from the Throne Room in that moment.
“What business do you have with Queen Melian,” the guard demanded.
“Eöl,” Iarûr said to the elf. “I did not expect you to come into Doriath. The glory of Menegroth offends you as much as the Girdle of Melian repels you from seeking the company of your kin.”
“Yet, I stand before you, do I not,” Eöl answered smiling. Even in darkness, his elven beauty was undeniable.
“Let him pass,” Iarûr commanded. “Their Majesties are expecting him.”
Reluctantly, the guards stood down and Eöl entered and followed Iarûr was as Finëar approached.
“Eöl has come into Menegroth,” he asked me, surprised.
“I do not know of him,” I answered.
“He is kin to the King,” he began. “He was lost to us for some time; since long before the rising of the Daystar.”
“He requested to see the Queen,” I said.
“Yes, of course he would,” he answered. “She has known where he resides since the creation of Menegroth. He may live beyond these borders but he owns his life to her protection whether he admits to it or not. His time spent in the company of the naugrim has made him a master smith—if not a bit reclusive.”
He went on his way and I too my leave to find Êlengolas. I found him in the armory with Súlwë. They were overseeing the inventory of its contents at the request of Elmo.
“What brings you to the pits of darkness, Orothôn,” Êlengolas asked as he wrote on a scroll held by two young elven boys as Súlwë counted swords.
“What is there to do,” I asked sitting on a bench. “Iarûr is attending to the King just now.”
“So, you have met Eöl,” he answered.
“You know of him,” I asked.
“Of course,” he answered. “He likes the short ones.”
“The naugrim,” one of the young boys quipped.
“Yes,” Êlengolas said sweetly. “What have I said about speaking while I am working?”
“You said not to do so,” the other elf piped up.
“Êlengolas,” I said.
“What,” he asked. “My duties require complete concentration.”
“Three hundred and thirty-three swords,” Súlwë said.
“Thank you,” Êlengolas answered, writing.
“What do you know of this Eöl,” I asked.
“What I know I learned from Eäros,” he answered. “Before we came into Doriath.”
“Before,” I nearly yelled. They all stopped working and looked at me.
“Súlwë,” would you be so kind to take the boys to have a bite to eat?”
“It is about time,” one of the boys said helping the other roll the scroll.
“Come,” Súlwë said to them. “I will tell you more about Valinor.”
The boys cheered as they ran out fo the room ahead of Súlwë.
“You certainly know how to clear a room, Orothôn,” Êlengolas said.
“You know how long it has been,” I asked. “Oropher was a child then.”
“Yes,” he started. “And now he is not.”
“What did Eäros say of Eöl?”
“Nothing of great importance,” Êlengolas began. “He was with them then he was no more. Poor thing wandered off from their group before they came upon us.”
“He looks feral,” I said.
“I suppose you would as well if you only had naugrim to keep you company.”
“They are not feral, Êlengolas,” I said.
“They are wild,” he answered.
“They are stone masters and smiths.”
“So, they have a pastime,” he answered.
“You should have said something,” I said.
“What should I have said that the Queen did not already know,” he asked. “Obviously, he did not wish to be found.”
“How would anyone know what is in someone’s heart?
“I do not know what is in his heart but from what I have been told, the awakening of Angband he blames on the King.”
“N one but Morgoth woke up Angband,” I answered.
“Do not be so quick to think so,” he said. “What would have been had he remained on the path? Would we be here? Would not Valdôr still be with us?”
“No one knows the answer to that,” I said. “It is not ours to question.”
“I forgot how obedient you are to the plight of destiny,” Êlengolas said angrily. “You question nothing. You think all things happen for a reason.”
“Do they not,” I growled.
“Why do they,” he asked. “Why do they happen if we do not let them happen? Are we slaves to time and circumstance or do we not have the ability to think for ourselves?”
“We are here because we chose to be here,” I said. “We chose to remain with our kin.”
“Then, allow that same courtesy to Eöl,” Êlengolas said, calming down. “Time and circumstance gave to him the choice to become the elf he is. Nothing I could have said then would have changed what is now.”
Êlengolas was right. In his way, he had become wiser in his fear and doubt.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 11-9-2019
Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter VII: Darkness Falls (Pt. III)
I said nothing to Oropher about my vision. If he suspected anything, he said nothing. I put it out of my mind and life became routine once more. We heard little of the world beyond Doriath for a time that seemed longer than it was—when we returned to the realities of the world.
I was in the throne room with Orowen and Mîrwen early one morning before I was to meet Iarûr in the library.
“This younger generation of elves are so ambitious,” Orowen said to Mîrwen.
“Why do they wish to wait to start a family? Amdir wishes to follow Oropher’s example.”
“I do not know, Nana,” Mîrwen answered. “But I know Nimeithel agrees with her husband.”
“I have heard nothing from Anadriel,” Orowen said. “She keeps busy with Nimloth and Ëarmîr.”
“From what I understand, Nimeithel has her own hands full keeping up with Lúthien,” I added. “I do not know when she would find the time to start a family.”
“Have you not heard,” Orowen began. “Lúthien will have new accommodations soon.”
“New accommodations,” I asked curiously.
“On uncle’s orders,” Mîrwen said. “For her safety.”
“What could be safer than Menegroth,” I asked. “Are you sure you heard correctly?”
They nodded as Oropher approached with Celeborn.
“Good morning, Ada,” he said cheerfully.
“Have you heard of new accommodations for the Princess Lúthien,” I asked.
Celeborn looked down as Oropher sighed.
“I think you should come with us,” Oropher said.
I left with them for a short journey to a place where builders were constructing something around a tree. Overseeing the workers were Thingol, Elmo and both Galathils.
“This should keep my daughter secured and well-placed to have her ladies attend to her every whim,” I heard Thingol say.
As he turned to leave, we bowed to him.
“This should make things easier for Nimeithel,” he said to Oropher.
With that, he left with Elmo and his son.
“Galathil,” Celeborn said to his brother. “How are things?”
“Father was instructed to have me ensure things are done quickly and to the liking of the king.”
“May I ask what endangers the king’s daughter for him to go to such measures,” I asked.
“Love, I am afraid,” Galathil said. “What else is there?”
Oropher rolled his eyes.
“What is on your mind, son?”
“Nothing, Ada,” he said.
“Amdir and I overheard Saeros speaking to Iarûr,” Celeborn began. “Before you say it, Brother, I know it was bad form but they were in the hall in which we were walking.”
“You grow more like your wife every day,” Galathil said.
“As I was saying,” Celeborn continued. “Daeron informed the king of his daughter’s plans. I know not what they were, but I am quite sure it was her desire to follow the mortal on his quest.”
“Beren,” I asked. “How would anyone know where he is or if he lives?”
“There is no better way to know than to search,” Galathil said.
“So Thingol wishes Hírilorn turned into her gilded cage for her safety,” Celeborn added.
“That is rather extreme,” I whispered.
“These are dangerous times,” Galathil said.
“Made all the more dangerous by such a monstrosity,” Oropher added. “If she can get out of Menegroth, she will get out of this.”
“It is my duty to make sure that does not happen,” Galathil said sternly. “Our dear cousin is a bit unruly, as you well know.”
Oropher left abruptly and I went after him.
“Oropher,” I said as I caught up to him. “What is bothering you?”
“I can assure you, Father,” he began as he stopped walking. “Lúthien will not remain in that place for long.”
“How are you so sure,” I asked.
“There is nothing in this world that can keep the heart from what it will do for love, no matter how foolish.”
“It can be said to apply to a father for his daughter,” I answered. “We will do many foolish things for love.”
“Perhaps,” Oropher said more calmly. “But of two loves, only one will break its chains and change this world forever.”
He left me alone in shock at his words. Who was this man I called son and where were these profound revelations coming from?–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 9-22-2019
Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter VII: Darkness Falls (Pt. II)
“Two faces at one time intimately attached to the folds of eternity forever linger in uncertainty.”
Iarûr closed his book and put his quill aside. He looked at me—his gaze seemingly searching my soul for the answers to everything.
“I will not ask you what you are thinking, Iarûr,” I began, turning to my work. “It is always something that brings with it self-reflection.”
“For that, you should be grateful,” he said. “But today, my mind lingers on something less affirmative.”
“You worry about the mortal,” I asked.
“No more than I worry about us all,” he said. “Save what Queen Melian has seen and how best to put it down for future generations, I worry no more than usual.”
“I am afraid to ask so I will refrain,” I said, smiling to myself.
“Your curiosity is showing, Orothôn,” he said. “You do not hide it well.”
“I cannot hide anything from you, Iarûr,” I said, looking at him. “I would do well if my thoughts could whisper.”
“The world is changing, my friend,” he began. “Not for the better.”
“Êlengolas said peace is a time for scheming,” I said.
“He is right. No one schemes during a time of war. They are immersed in killing each other.”
“Hence, the scheming,” I added.
“Hence the wars that will come again to us.”
I sighed—it was the only emotion I had left anymore. The thought of battle brought uncharted memories of death and destruction. They were things I did not wish to become commonplace.
**** **** **** ****
I left the repository to find my family. My desire to be near them was overwhelming. A feeling of dread ran through me like rolling fire—I knew this war would be unlike any other. Iarûr did not have to say a word—his eyes told me more than he could express otherwise. As I walked through the halls leading toward the throne room, they seemed darker than usual—the candlelight appeared to grow darker and the halls longer. The echo of my footsteps faded behind me as an eerie silence surrounded me.
“Orothôn,” a voice said from a distance. I looked behind me and saw only darkness—an abysmal void of despair. The voice came from everywhere and nowhere. I said nothing as I continued on my way.
“Orothôn,” the voice said again. When I looked before me, I saw Valdôr standing before me. I screamed and fell to the floor.
“Valdôr,” I whispered.
“Orothôn,” he said, smiling. “It is good to see you, my friend.”
“You died in Ossiriand,” I stammered.
“I did,” he answered. “You did not.”
I knew then it was Valdôr. He reached down to help me up. He was as real as any other elf. When I was standing, I noticed the halls had returned to their regular appearance. Valdôr was still standing before me.
“Are you a vision,” I asked.
“I know you have them,” he started. “Though you keep them from Mîrwen.”
“I do not wish her to know.”
Valdôr gave me a smirk.
“This is Mîrwen, Orothôn,” he said. “Do you think she does not know?”
“I hope she does not know. Why are you here?”
“You know well why I am here,” he answered. “The world is changing and not for the better.”
“Iarûr said as much,” I said. “You heard him?”
“Where I am, I see what the living cannot,” he said. “I know what Queen Melian has known from the beginning of time. Darkness will fall again upon this world and last many seasons.”
“Then all is lost,” I said.
“With darkness always comes light, Orothôn, Valdôr said calming. “There is hope.”
“I am afraid waiting for hope is something for which I have little patience,” I said, frustrated.
“Hope comes when it is ready,” Valdôr said. “It is not for you or anyone to command.”
“Then why have any at all,” I asked.
“Because it is the only thing you have more of than time.”
I stared at Valdôr. His words were far more than I wanted to hear but I knew he was right.
“My hope will lie in Oropher,” I whispered.
“And his will lie in his son,” he said. “And mine shall be there by their side when hope again rises in this world, Orôthon.”
Before I could say another word, my name was spoken by another voice.
“Orothôn,” it said. I looked to see Eldôr standing before me in his father’s place with Amdir. “Are you feeling well?”
I looked around and realized I was standing in the vestibule by the main gates.
“I am quite well, Eldôr,” I answered.
“Oropher was looking for you,” Amdir said. “He is in his chambers.”
“Thank you, Amdir,” I answered. “I will be on my way.”
Hoping they did not see me speaking with myself, I quickly left them and made my way to Oropher’s room.––TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 9-13-2019
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Images: ©2012, 2013, 2014. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter VII: Darkness Falls (Pt. I)
One afternoon not long after my son and I wondered about Lúthien’s comings and goings, I was with Mîrwen taking a walk through the forest. The day was cool; the only warmth came sparsely from sunbeams finding their way to us between the infinite branches. It was a rare occasion for us—a moment away from the duties of the court—but it was Orowen that gave us a not toward a pleasant distraction.
“It is a beautiful day,” Mîrwen said. “How long it has been since I have been outside Menegroth.”
“Remind me to thank your mother for allowing such an excursion,” I said. “I know how engaged Queen Melian keeps her ladies.”
“Her mind lies elsewhere this day,” she answered. “She is concerned about her daughter.”
“The Queen has learned of her wanderings,” I asked smiling to myself. “It was only a matter of time, I suppose. Nimeithel could not keep up with her.”
“As it has always been,” she said. “I have it on good authority that the princess cast a spell over someone.”
“You know of Daeron,” I asked, surprised.
“Daeron?”
“He is smitten with her.”
“Perhaps,” Mîrwen began. “But Lúthien’s heart belongs to another.”
“Do you know the name of this elf,” I asked.
Mîrwen stopped abruptly, her face drained of its color.
“What is the matter?”
“Her love is not of the Edalië,” she murmured. “He is a mortal man. One of the Atani as Iarûr calls them.”
It was one of the lore come to life. The rumors from the East proven true. I became both frightened and fascinated.
“I know King Things will not be pleased.”
“He is furious,” Mîrwen said. “His anger will not be abated. That is why Mother dismissed us from our duties.”
“Why?”
“This man has been sent for.”
We looked at each other—one searching for the soul of the other.
“Whom di they send,” I asked.
“No one,” she whispered. “Lúthien went after him on her own.”
I looked toward Menegroth. The fortress loomed over Doriath with a watchful eye. I knew those eyes would turn inward; its gaze harsh in judgment.
“We need to return to court,” I said. “Now.”
Mîrwen nodded as I took her hand and walked home as quickly as we could. I nearly stumbled at the bridge but managed to maintain some composure. As the gates opened, the vestibule leading to the throne room was replete with Elves trying to catch a glimpse of the Atan. They stood silent as the voice of Thingol filled every hall. It was thine I heard another voice. Holding Mîrwen’s hand tighter, we slowly made our way through the crowd. Once within the doorway we stopped at the moment the Atan held aloft a ring that shimmered green. The court whispered among themselves.
“He is Beren, son of Barahir,” Êlengolas whispered to me. “He has the heart of the fair Lúthien but has yet to win the confidence of the king.”
“When did he arrive,” I asked him quietly as King Thingol and Beren continued to speak. I could see Queen Melian and Lúthien were troubled.
“Not long after you and Mîrwen left,” he said. “I can say this meeting has not left Daeron unamused.”
“I would think not.”
As Thingol handed down his command to the brave but disheveled young man, I glanced around at the faces of the elves. I tried to read their expressions but many remained stoic as Beren accepted his challenge for the hand of his beloved. Even I knew this was a futile bargain for Thingol would never allow anyone to take his daughter to
At that moment, the elves parted to allow Beren to take his leave. The young Atan came into view. There was nothing remarkable about him—he looked like one of us, save for his ears. A determined look he had on his face as he made his way through a sea of curious elven onlookers. His countenance was noble; his gentle eyes glancing in our direction. He nodded toward us as he left the throne room and departed Menegroth.
“Should he live to see us again,” Êlengolas began. “I pray I am alive to see that day.”
“How do you mean,” I asked, perplexed.
“He seeks to claim from Angband that came from Valinor by way of Morgoth. The victor of the Noldo at Dagor Aglareb has done nothing to keep evil at bay.”
“We are at peace,” I said.
“Peace is a time for scheming in Angband,” he continued. “I am afraid this will bring about the wars of the ages.”
We said nothing more. Mîrwen looked on in despair as she embraced me. I had lived to fight again.––TKWRT
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Chapter VI: The Second Awakening (Pt. V)
I took my place beside Mîrwen—I marveled at how she radiated when she smiled at me. We stood with Elmo and Orowen, Galadhon and Celebriel, Galathil and Nárwen on either side of King Thingol and Queen Melian. Oropher, Amdir, Galathil, and Eäros stood with their wives beside Celeborn and Galadriel as they stood before the court to take their vows.
“Celeborn, son of Galadhon,” Daeron began. “You have chosen Galadriel?”
“I have,” Celeborn said proudly.
“And you, Galadriel, daughter of Finarfin,” another elf said to her. “You have chosen Celeborn?”
“I have,” Galadriel said gazing into Celeborn’s eyes.
Daeron and the elf bowed to Things as he stood to address the couple.
“I say to you both, you have my blessing.”
They shared a kiss and the Great Hall erupted with cheers. Servants cleared the hall to prepare for evening celebrations as we left with the family into an adjacent room beyond the thrones. Once there, I noticed King Thingol speaking to his queen quietly across from us. The door opened.
“Saeros,” Thingol said to the elf that entered. “Come.”
I recognized him as the other officiant. Unlike most elves in the service of the king, he was a Nandor. Today was his first official duty as a member of the council. Graceful and fair, his demeanor reminded me of Denethor.
“That was a beautiful ceremony,” Orowen began. “It was indeed the respite from the goings-on beyond these walls we needed.”
“If you are referring to the sundering of the lands around Beleriand by the sons of Fëanor, Fingolfin, and Finarfin, then yes, it was,” Galadhon said quietly.
“It is your son’s wedding day,” Elmo began sternly. “There will be none of that.”
“Where has Celeborn gone to,” Mîrwen asked, looking around.
“He is probably with his brother and his cousins,” I said. “His bride was last seen with Lúthien and her ladies.”
“I am rather looking forward to this evening,” Galathil said. “How long has it been since we have found cause to celebrate?”
“Too long,” I said.
Shortly, we found ourselves summoned to the Great Hall again for feast and merriment into the night. When I was not dancing with Mîrwen, I spent my time observing my kin enjoying themselves. Even Súlwë found a measure of happiness as he danced with Galadriel. For a moment, it seemed the past was forgiven.
**** **** **** ****
One morning not long after, I lay in bed—my eyes shut with my mind drifting peacefully in tranquil darkness. I felt Mîrwen move closer to me, her lips touching mine. I opened my eyes to find her looking at me. We kissed again and soon we were lost in each other’s arms.
“How is my wife this morning,” I asked.
“She is very happy,” she said.
She kissed me again, but I did not respond.
“What is the matter?”
“It is too quiet,” I answered. “Something is about to happen.”
“Do not be silly,” Mîrwen said, kissing me again.
There was a knock at the door. Mîrwen frowned at me as I smiled at her.
“I told you so,” I whispered. “One moment, if you will,” I said to the door.
Mîrwen rose from our bed and covered herself with her robe.
“Enter,” she said.
When the door opened, several ladies entered. I recognized two of them.
“Good morning, Nimeithel; Valdúril.”
“Orothôn,” Nimeithel said as she turned to Mîrwen. “Wonderful news! Níndi is with child and Galathil has asked Meriel for her hand.”
“That is wonderful news,” Mîrwen cried gleefully.
“Yes,” I began. “Wonderful.”
They all turned and looked at me for what seemed a lifetime.
“Apologies, my love,” Mîrwen finally said.
She motioned for the ladies to follow her to her dressing corner so I could properly cover myself in my robe. It was then another knock came. I sighed deeply.
“Enter,” I said as I sat down on the bed. It was Êlengolas and Finëar.
“You are not in bed,” Finëar said.
I pointed behind me.
“Oh,” he said again.
More dressers entered as Mîrwen emerged dressed for the day. She came to me and whispered into my ear.
“Until later,” she said as she kissed my cheek.
I nodded and she disappeared into the hall with the ladies.
“I do not wish to know,” Êlengolas began. “Please keep that to yourself.”
I let out a weak laugh as the dressers got to work.
“Any word from court other than Galathil’s engagement?”
“Lady Galadriel has left Beleriand,” Finëar said.
“Why,” I asked.
“It is nothing,” Êlengolas added. “She went to see her brother.”
“The king allowed this,” I asked.
“He cannot deny her such a request even as he and his brothers are exiled.”
“Did Celeborn leave with her?”
“No, he remains,” Finëar answered. “He has duties to attend to here.”
“He is the grandson of the king’s brother. Let no grudge go unheld,” Êlengolas said as the dressers finished and left.
The three of us made our way toward the Great Hall.
“Where does Finrod make his home,” I asked.
“Not far from our southwest borders,” Finëar said. “The sons of Fëanor are our north and east.”
“Do not forget Fingolfin and his sons,” Êlengolas said. “They occupy territory in the Northwest regions. All is right with the world.”
“For now,” I said to myself as we continued on our way.
**** **** **** ****
As the years went on, our world began to grow. There were noticeably more elves and naugrim walking the hills and valleys of Arda. After the birth of Eäros and Níndi’s son Ëarmîr, Galathil wed Meriel. Not long thereafter, their daughter Nimloth was born.
In the days following, my visions became more frequent and vivid. I told no one of the darkness and the despair I saw but Oropher seemed to understand whenever I became distant from friends and family.
There were rumors out of Ossiriand from the remnants of the Laiquendi still residing there. A new creature had appeared. Unlike the naugrim, it was said to be far more pleasant to look upon, yet their presence was unwelcome. Saeros would scoff at the stories of his lost people as fantasy as their plight of living under the eyes of two sons of Fëanor was less than ideal.
Queen Melian, however, took these rumors to heart. She said very little on the matter except to tell us not to dismiss these tales out of hand for creation continues under the Heavens. After a while, the rumors would be put aside and we went on with our lives—until the night when the rumors came within the borders of Doriath.
For elves, the night brought us comfort. We awoke beneath the stars so it was not uncommon for any of us to find ourselves outside on cloudless nights lost in thought. On nights such as this, Lúthien would wander out of the palace. It was unclear why—for it had started to become routine. Upon her return each time, her behavior seemed changed. Her cousin Galathil fell suspicious first—telling Oropher she was almost tolerable. Still, no one said a word. It was in her nature, we told ourselves.
One moonlit night, I went to find my son. He was on watch in the keep. When I arrived, he was lost in thought, gazing into the sky.
“What is on your mind, son,” I asked.
“Not a thing,” he said, turning his gaze toward me. “I was enjoying the view.”
I went to join him at the window. It was one of the most beautiful nights I had seen.
“What a view it is,” I said. “It is breathtaking.”
“Perhaps if we were outside,” he began. “I would love to take Nimeithel for a walk.”
“There will be other nights,” I said. “How is Nimeithel?”
“She has been tasked to look after Lúthien,” he answered. “To see where she wanders on the orders of grandmother. She thinks Lúthien has found a new place to wander but she wants to make sure it is not too far from Menegroth.”
“Has she returned,” I asked.
“She never left,” Oropher laughed. “Lúthien escaped before she could follow.”
We look out the window and saw Daeron leaving—crossing the bridge swiftly.
“Where is Daeron going,” I asked.
Oropher looked for himself.
“I do not know, but he has been often wandering out of Menegroth as of late searching for Lúthien.”
“Perhaps he goes for the king,” I said.
“The king does not know,” he answered.
“How is that possible?”
“I cannot say,” Oropher began. “But he does not know Daeron is in love with his daughter.”
“I beg your pardon,” I cried.
“It is true, Ada,” he said. “I do not know how no one has noticed how he looks upon her.”
“Everyone looks upon Lúthien with high regard,” I said.
Oropher laughed.
“He looks upon her as I look upon Nimeithel or Eldôr looks upon Valdúril. He is in love but it is unrequited.”
I looked out again to see Daeron returning from his outing. Even at a distance, I could see he was infuriated.
“He is not happy,” I said.
“How can you tell,” Oropher asked. “He always looks that way.”
“Something has him overwrought,” I said. “Perhaps I should go after him.”
“There is no need to,” Oropher said pointing into the night.
I saw Lúthien coming across the bridge and into the gates. We looked at each other perplexed. I would not be long before the answer to our questions would come walking into the court of King Thingol.––TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 8-03-2019
Note to @staff : This is Liv Tyler as Arwen. Duh.
Images: ©2001, 2002, 2003. Warner Brothers Pictures. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. All Rights Reserved.
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Chapter VI: The Second Awakening (Pt. IV)
Little else was said thereafter as the court was preparing for the wedding of Celeborn and Galadriel. The proposal did not come as a surprise to anyone—they made little attempt to hide their affection for one another. The ladies thought it would be a wonderful respite from thoughts of things that still weighed heavily on King Thingol.
We had seasons now that showed the passage of time in Doriath. Leaves began to change colors and fall from tree branches to blanket the forest floor beneath as nature’s quilt. There came autumn rains and winter snow with the cooling air that chilled our breath when we spoke. The elflings enjoyed the seasons; finding new things to do outside to entertain themselves. I would catch Oropher and Eldôr building elves of snow when they caught a chance from their duties.
When all was green once more, the Great Hall was filled with flowers and adorned with drapes of matching colors in preparation for the matrimonial celebration. Celeborn spent most of his time with his brother, Galathil, Oropher, and Amdir when he was not with his father.
The day began calmly enough—I was lying in bed alone as Mîrwen had left at daybreak to attend to Galadriel. I knew the day would not be interrupted by war. We were living in a time of great peace. Even Círdan had returned to Doriath for the occasion from Eglarest. As I lay looking up at the elaborately carved stone ceiling, I found my mind drift into thoughts unknown. The room seemed to change as it morphed into the forest of my past.
There were vines twisted around the trunks of trees and creatures with several legs sprouting of their smaller bodies. They spewed a silken cord that ensnarled the treetops. Even as the sun seemed to shine, there was a darkness that fought against its light. I suddenly realized I was walking through this world—searching for someone.
Soon I found her; a maiden in a green cloak standing in a clearing where the only ray of sun beamed down. Her back to me, she remains motionless as I moved toward her slowly. When I was upon her, I spoke.
“Do I know you, my lady,” I asked.
She turned toward me. Her face was beautiful save for her eyes—only large black holes looked back at me.
“Taur-e-Ndaedelos,” she said in a raspy voice that echoed through the forest. “Taur-e-Ndaedelos.”
I screamed. I looked around and realized I was in my chambers and sitting upward on my bed. A knock came to the door.
“Enter,” I said. I was still shocked at what I had seen. Oropher entered.
“Ada,” he began. “Are you well? You look shaken.”
“I am fine, son,” I answered. “Am I late for the ceremony?”
“No,” he said sitting at the end of the bed. “It does not begin for some time. I came to see after you.”
“Did your mother send you,” I asked.
“No,” he answered. “I heard you speaking to someone. Who were you speaking to?”
“You heard me speaking to no one,” I said. “I am the only one here as you can see. Perhaps you heard someone in the hall.”
“I heard you ask someone if you knew them.”
My blood ran cold. How could he hear my thoughts?
“It was not me,” I lied. I wanted to know if he believed me.
“You said, ‘do I know you, my lady’.”
“It was nothing,” I answered.
“You were having a vision,” Oropher said. “I know because I have had the same one many times. The lady with death in her eyes.”
I nodded. I wanted to know more yet feared anything else my son would reveal. Instead, he nodded in agreement.
“We will keep such things to ourselves,” he finally said. “For now, today is for Celeborn.”
I sighed deeply. I was relieved he decided to speak of something new.
“How is he,” I asked.
“Terrified,” he answered with a laugh. “Though much of his fear comes from what Eldôr has said to him.”
“Like father, like son,” I said to myself thinking about Valdôr. “Be grateful it was not Êlengolas that spoke with him.”
“It is not too late,” he said rising. “The day has only begun. Do you wish me to stay with you while you prepare?”
“That is not necessary, Oropher,” I answered. “I thank you for your concern. I will be fine.”
Oropher smiled as he headed for the door. He paused then turned around.
“I have great hope for the future,” he said. “Even if It is filled with darkness. For every night, there is a day.”
I knew what he meant—our vision was a foretelling. I smiled at him and the was gone. I decided it was time to rise. I did not wish to have any more visions. I rang for the servants and waited impatiently for their arrival. When they arrived, I was never happier for their annoyance. When I was dressed, I left quickly for the Grand Hall.––TKWRT
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Chapter VI: The Second Awakening (Pt. I)
It did not take long for Súlwë to become accustomed to life in Menegroth. He was introduced at court under Nimernil though whenever he was with Oropher, he was called Súlwë.
The peace of the next few years gave way to the creation of the Elven Realms from the West to the Havens of Círdan to the East where Ossiriand for the fruit of life again. The darkness in the North seemed to have been silenced; as was told to us by Angrod. In the time of peace, I wondered if Oropher would start a family, but he remained more determined to wait. He knew better than I that this peace would not last.
When the sons of Fënor, Fingolfin, and Finarfin invited King Thingol to join them in the Feast of Reuniting, he decided against it even as the remaining elves of Ossiriand quickly accepted. He sent Daeron with Mablung in his stead. Iarûr told Êlengolas that it was to without complaint. Daeron did not wish to go but he was bound by duty to the king.
When they returned, Daeron spoke to no one but Thingol and the Queen. The court did not think on it long and the routine of daily life went on. On one occasion, I was with Oropher, Eldôr, Amdir, and Súlwë outside the palace. It was a crisp day—with endless blue skies; the sun beamed upon us with a subtle warmth over a gentle breeze. The waters fo the Esgalduin sparkled as the aquatic creatures created ripples made golden by the sun.
“What was it like in Alqualondë,” Amdir asked Súlwë.
“Before the battle, it was unlike anything you have ever seen,” Súlwë said. “It seems a lifetime since then. I wonder about my family. They must think I perished.”
“Did you know well the sons of Finarfin?”
“Yes, of course,” he smiled. “Their father married my sister Eärwen. There is a maiden among them. Her name is Altáriel. She was most beloved by my sister. Like her, she is the only girl of brothers.”
“She was left behind, then,” Oropher asked.
“Not her,” he answered. “She is quite headstrong. She is here with her brothers.”
“I wonder if we will ever see them,” Eldôr wondered aloud.
“Perhaps,” Súlwë said. “If only to visit their kin. Olwë, Elwë, and Elmo remain very close if only in spirit. I heard many tales of the journey even though like my sister I was born in Eldamar.”
“You did not miss much,” I said as I remembered Cuiviénen.
“I would like to see our home across the sea one day,” Eldôr said. “Father spoke of nothing of it all my life as if he had been there. I want to know if it is real.”
Amdir hit him in the arm.
“How can it not be real,” he asked. “Súlwë just came from there.”
“Is there more than Alqualondë,” Eldôr asked Súlwë.
“Yes, of course,” he said.
“Then I wish to see if the rest of it is real.”
We continued along the way when Súlwë suddenly stopped—his face frozen in a cold stare. We looked to see a group of elves walking toward us. As they came closer, I realized I had never seen them before. Most of them were fair-haired. Among them was the most lovely of elven maidens.
“Who are you,” Eldôr asked, taking a defensive stand with Amdir. “You are in the kingdom of King Thingol.”
One of the elves came forward to protect the most regal of them.
“It is alright, Legolas,” he said to his guard, motioning him to stand down.
“Many apologies for my companion. My cousin thought it best to send us with protection. I am Finrod, son of Finarfin. These are my brothers Orodreth, Aegnor, and our sister.”
“I am Altáriel,” she said. “You may call me Galadriel.”
They bowed to us.
“You are the one that sent Angrod,” I said.
“I did,” Finrod said. “He told us great things about His Majesty’s generosity.”
“How is Angrod,” I asked.
“He is well,” he answered. “He is attending to his uncle Fingolfin just now.”
“Come,” Oropher said. “I am sure His Majesty King Thingol will welcome you at Menegroth.”
Finrod smiled at us. We turned back toward Menegroth.
“It is good to see you again, Nimernil,” Galadriel whispered to Súlwë. “So far from home. My mother must miss her favorite brother.”
Súlwë said nothing. As we approached the bridge, we were met by Mablung and Beleg. Mablung greeted us.
“Finrod,” he said. “Good to see you again.”
“You as well,” Finrod answered.
“Legolas Greenleaf,” Mablung began. “What brings you so far away from your lord?”
“Turgon wished his cousins to have safe passage into Doriath,” Legolas answered.
There seemed an uneasy tension between them. Nonetheless, the remained cordial.
“You have done well,” Beleg said. “Shall we?”
We followed them across the bridge and into the gates of Menegroth.–TKWRT
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