#this is a book
Chapter IV: Darkness and Light (Pt. I)
It was not long after that the world around us seemed to change. Though we remained under the protection of the Girdle of Melian, the sense of foreboding grew like thorns in our hearts and minds.
As I emerged from my chambers, I nearly ran into Êlengolas.
“Êlengolas,” I said. His face was stoic. “What brings you here?”
“You do not know,” he asked. “Surely you have some idea.”
“I am afraid I am quite unaware. Has battle come to us?”
Êlengolas smirked.
“You honestly have no idea,” he began. “Have you not noticed your son has started to come of age?”
“I have,” I answered, feeling at ease. “So has Eldôr as well as your daughters.”
Êlengolas smiled, then laughed.
“Yes, they have,” he said. “They are quite lovely. It would appear their loveliness has not gone unnoticed.”
“What are you saying,” I asked.
“I am saying that your son has taken a liking to my daughter, Nimeithel.”
I stared at him for a moment.
“I am afraid Oropher has not said a word to me or his mother.”
“And why would he,” Êlengolas said. “He has yet to make his intentions known. He is much like you, Orothôn. Thoughtful and profoundly naïve.”
“I beg your pardon,” I asked, growing angry.
“You, my friend, see only the flowers, never the thorns. Eternally optimistic.”
“You say that like it was a flaw.”
“It is, but one that is tolerable,” he answered smiling. “For now, I would have a word with Oropher. My Nimeithel speaks of nothing but him.”
Êlengolas began to walk away.
“Where are you off to,” I asked.
“Off to find Valdôr,” he answered. “The trouble with daughters is that others have sons.”
I smiled to myself. It was true—I had not spent as much time with my son as I should or would like. I walked to his door and knocked.
“Enter,” my son said.
I walked in—it was much like my chambers in detail. I saw Oropher swinging a sword.
“What is this,” I asked.
He stopped and looked at me. He was far more a man than the child I remembered. He was strong in stature—his golden hair falling over his shoulders like a waterfall.
“What are you doing,” I asked.
“I am practicing,” he said. “Nothing more.”
“You are not going to war,” I said angrily. “I will not allow it!”
“Ada,” he began.
“Your mother will not forgive me if I lost you.”
“Stop,” he said, his voice deeper than it once was. “There are not enough elves to defend this land.”
“How would you know,” I asked. “Who said this to you?”
“We are no longer children,” he said. “Hard as you try, you cannot keep us protected from what evil will come. We have been training for some time now.”
“Who is ‘we’,” I asked, my voice ringing in my own head as it echoed throughout the room.
“Me and Eldôr,” he said softly. “Some others as well. Upon my request.”
“I did not give you permission.”
“I know. You would never allow it. I asked grandfather to ask his brother, King Thingol, and he said yes.”
I stared at my son. He was unrecognizable.
“Please, do not be angry with me, Ada. I did it for you.”
“For me,” I asked—my eyes filling with tears.
“I want to be there to protect you,” he said. “I know Nana would die without you. I could not forgive myself if I did nothing to save you and her.”
I walked over to him and embraced him. I never loved Oropher more if that were possible.
“I love you,” I whispered.
“I know,” he answered. “I love you, too.”
When I let him go, I thought of Mîrwen.
“Do not tell your mother,” I said. “Now is not the time.”
“No,” he agreed. “Not now. She has her mind on other things.”
“What things?”
“She has her mind on Nimeithel. I am quite sure.”
My mind returned to my meeting with Êlengolas.
“I just met Nimeithel’s father in the hall. He says she speaks of nothing but you.”
Oropher smiled, his face flushed.
“She does,” he asked.
“How do you feel about her, Oropher?”
He sat down on his bed.
“I am quite fond of Nimeithel.”
“I have known that for some time,” I said sitting beside him. “Since you were very young.”
“What should I do,” he asked. He was my son again.
“What does your heart tell you?”
“My heart wants to marry her but I know I must wait. Eldôr is in love with her sister Valdúril. I cannot imagine what their father must think of this.”
I laughed.
“I do not think you have anything to worry about.”
“So you will give your blessing,” he asked eagerly.
“Are you asking for my blessing?”
“I do not know,” he said.
When you know, then your mother and I will give you our blessing.”
“Thank you, father,” he said.
He lept from the bed and ran out of the room. I looked around. My world was changing—for the better and the worst.–TKWRT
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
Note to
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. II)
As we entered the gates, the court ceased its duties as they looked upon us—especially the elegant beauty of Galadriel. Amdir had gone ahead to send word to King Thingol of their guests. We approached the throne just as Amdir returned with the king with Daeron at his side.
“Finrod, son of Finarfin,” King Thingol said. “Welcome to Doriath.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty,” Finrod answered. “Your generosity has preceded you.”
King Thingol smiled. He motioned to Finrod and his family to follow him away. When they had left, Mîrwen and Nimeithel approached us.
“Who were they,” Mîrwen asked.
“They come to us from Mithrim,” I said.
“They are the siblings of Angrod,” Oropher added. “I trust they all remain with us for a time.”
“The lady is quite lovely,” Nimeithel said.
“Quite,” I answered. “Lovely but peculiar.”
“Let us be on our way, Nimeithel,” Mîrwen said. “We must help prepare the Queen for tonight.”
Mîrwen kissed me and they were on their way. Súlwë looked on—his face tense.
“I need to find Êlengolas,” I said. “I shall leave you to your duties.”
Oropher, Súlwë, Eldôr, and Amdir nodded. I left them knowing where I would find Êlengolas. He was with Mablung and Beleg learning about Legolas.
“You are from Valinor,” I heard Êlengolas ask as I entered the hall outside the throne room.
“I am,” Legolas answered. His confidence was as crisp as his striking gray eyes and long golden hair.
“Are there others as you,” Êlengolas queried again.
“There is,” Legolas said. “He is called Glorfindel. From the House of the Golden Flower.”
I could see by Êlengolas’ expression I needed to interrupt.
“I am Orothôn,” I said quickly, greeting our new guest. “We met earlier.”
“It is a pleasure,” Legolas answered.
“How long will you be with us,” I asked.
“For as long as we are welcomed,” he said. “No longer.”
I thought his answer sounded unusual but I said nothing.
“Êlengolas, may I have a word?”
He followed me around a corner.
“The House of the Golden Flower,” he finally said laughing.
“You know our visitors are kin to the King,” I asked.
“Are they from the House of the Golden Flower?”
I hit his arm hard.
“What?”
“The ones he guards are kin to the King. They come from Mithrim.”
“They came from Valinor,” he said. “Why are these elves leaving the home we should be living in?”
“It is a long story,” I began. “I will speak of it later. Meanwhile, I expect you to mind your manners.”
Êlengolas glared at me.
“Orothôn, please,” he started. “I am not a child. Your royal duties do not require that you play nursemaid to me.”
“Only when Iarûr is absent,” I said, smiling.
“You know something,” he said.
“I do, but as I said before, I will speak of it later.”
“After dinner,” he said. He took his leave. I stood there thinking to myself as an uneasy feeling came over me. I went to my chambers to prepare for the evening.
**** **** **** ****
When we were in the Great Hall awaiting the entrance of the King and Queen, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Everyone was in their place—some were quietly chatting amongst themselves. Soon, the sound of music filled the hall and King Thingol, Queen Melian, their daughter Lúthien entered with Finrod, Orodreth, Aegnor, and Galadriel. It was then that Celeborn became enamored. It was hard not to notice as his face was glowing brighter than the lanterns in the room.
When everyone was seated, dinner was served. On this night, there were more delights than usual and everyone took advantage. Things were going well and my mind was put at ease. The celebration went on late into the night.
As promised, after dinner, I found Êlengolas and under the light of the moon. I told him all that I knew—from Nimernil to the coming of Finrod.
“Well,” he said when I finished. “That is quite a tale. Why did you not tell me this before?”
“I was sworn to secrecy.”
“Orothôn.“
“I did not know where to begin,” I said. “It was not until Finrod came that everything Súlwë said made sense.”
“When King Thingol learns of this, it will not go well.”
“You will say nothing,” I said.
“I do not have to say anything,” Êlengolas said. “I trust someone will say it to him.”
“Who would dare tell the King of such slaughter upon his brother’s house?”
“My guess would be someone from his brother’s house.”
“I do not think Súlwë will be the one to tell him,” I said. “He does not want to risk his identity to be revealed.”
“I do not believe he will be the one,” Êlengolas said pensively. “Love will make anyone tell secrets and truths.”
“Love,” I asked. “What has love to do with this?”
“I know you saw Celeborn as he looked upon the Lady Galadriel,” he began. “Did you notice how she looked upon him?”
“No,” I answered.
“It is for no one to say but her,” he said. “She will speak when her heart is ready. I do worry, though.”
“Worry?”
“What a burden to bear for ambition. Olwë is her mother’s father. What could be worth more than the life of your own kin?”
I said nothing. When he was wise, Êlengolas could make me think deeper on things. I could not imagine the guilt these elves would carry for eternity. On our way back to the palace, we happened upon Celeborn with Galadriel. They were very much in love. I knew Êlengolas was right—it would not be long before all would be revealed.–TKWRT Book I: The Epic of Eryn Galen by Jaynaé Marie Miller. 6-24-2019
Note to @staff: This is a book. The photo–from a movie: See copyright information. Galadriel and Celeborn are fully-clothed.
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. 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
Note to
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 V: The Coming of Time (Pt. III)
I do not know how long we stood watching this new light that outshined the stars rise higher and higher. It was hard to step away but I longed to tell Mîrwen our son had returned. I turned around and nearly knocked her over.
“Mîrwen,” I said, startled. She kissed me tenderly then smiled.
“Our son is home,” she began.
“I was on my way to tell you,” I said as I looked around. Oropher was nowhere to be seen.
“He has gone in search of Nimeithel,” Mîrwen said. “She will be most pleased.”
“Of course. As will Valdúril. Have you come to see what has risen?”
“I have come for you, Orothôn,” she began. “Though this new marvel beckons to us all. It is comforting.”
“It is,” I said, taking her hand. “But you are more so to me.”
I kissed her like the first time. Everything seemed as it was before we had come into Doriath. We made our way into Menegroth toward our chambers for what would be known as the first night
As we lay together not long thereafter, our moment was interrupted by a knock on the door.
“Shall we let them enter,” I asked Mîrwen.
“What would you say,” she asked. “Would you send them away? It could be a matter of grave importance.”
“It also could be nothing at all,” I answered.
The knocking continued. Mîrwen rose quickly and put on her robe. She looked at me. I sighed and got up and did the same.
“Enter,” I said.
When the doors opened, Iarûr entered with Finëar.
“You must come to the court quickly,” Finëar said. “It is a matter of grave importance.”
Mîrwen laughed at me as two ladies entered and took her behind our dressing screen.
“How grave,” I asked.
“It is nothing,” Iarûr began.
“Then why are you here,” I asked, glaring at Finëar.
“Why are you not dressed for court,” Finëar asked.
“Because it is most inconvenient to go to bed fully clothed.”
Two elven courtiers entered and began to dress me.
“Has King Things called an audience,” I asked.
“He is with Queen Melian,” Iarûr began as Mîrwen emerged impeccably dressed.
“Is Mother and Father with them,” she asked.
“Yes, Your Highness,” Finëar said, bowing. “Your brothers as well.”
“They are in the Great Hall,” she asked.
“No,” Iarûr answered. “They are outside. Your son Oropher and his wife are already there.”
The sound of my son’s name piqued my curiosity.
“Oropher,” I asked as my dressers finished and left with the ladies.
“Shall we,” Iarûr said as he motioned to the door. Mîrwen took my hand and we followed Finëar and Iarûr out of our room and toward the front gates. I noticed how silent things were, save for the echo of our footsteps. I started to fear something was amiss.
“Something must be wrong,” I whispered to Mîrwen. She said nothing as we continued on our way. Once we reached the gates, the guards opened them. A flood of bright light rolled into the hall. I was afraid to go further.
“It is alright,” Finëar said. “It is only the light of the Daystar.”
Slowly we walked into the world that once existed under the light of many stars. It was now a world filled with vivid color. Above us, the sky was a light blue as the light of the Daystar blinded anyone that tried to look upon it. I looked around—I should see other elves anew—their features distinct and even more beautiful. There were elflings playing in the crisp green grass beneath the canopy of tall trees; their branches covered in all forms of leaves of many colors.
“Nana,” I heard Oropher say as he embraced Mîrwen. Beside him was Nimeithel—breathtaking as ever in her new role.
“How is my son,” Mîrwen asked.
“I could not be happier,” he said.
“What about you, Nimeithel,” I asked.
“I feel the same as my husband,” she answered.
“How is Eldôr,” I inquired. In the joy of the moment, I found myself thinking of Valdôr.
“As to be expected,” Oropher said solemnly. “He learned of his father’s passing before the rising of the Daystar. I cannot imagine what he or Lothluin must be feeling.”
We fell quiet for a time—our own vigil to our beloved friend. He died beneath starlight—his life given so others could see this day.
It was the first day and it was received with a bittersweet reflection of our existence in a world we were never meant to live. I thought of the stories of Eldamar. I wondered if it existed—did this light steal from it eternal life? Every one of us remained in the light of day until it made its descent beneath the horizon. It was then the familiarity of our first life returned as the stars began to peek out of the coming of night. The moon began another journey across the sky as we made our way into the palace.
A grand banquet was held in celebration of the coming of time. Now we would know the journey of our lives by the passing of day into night.
It was not long before we became accustomed to the day. The warmth of the Daystar we now called ’the Sun’ was a welcoming comfort from the coolness of the night. We learned to tell time with the passing of days. With the Sun and the Moon came seasons and weather.
One day, I was outside walking with Oropher—speaking of things in the early afternoon.
“Have you given any thought to starting a family,” I asked.
“I have,” he said smiling. “But I am hesitant of it.”
“May I ask why?”
“If you admit that Nana put you up to asking such a question.”
I laughed.
“Do you think I would have acted on my own volition?”
“No,” he answered.
“Then tell me, what keeps you from starting a family?”
Oropher sighed. I could see something weighed heavily on his mind.
“I had a vision,” he began. “I saw many things I do not comprehend.”
“What things,” I asked. I wondered if he had inherited his mother’s gift of foresight.
“I saw war,” he began. “Far worse than we have ever seen. There was death everywhere with the coming of another creature.”
“Creature,” I asked. I thought of the Orcs that I fought Ossiriand. “Such as the evil horde that came out of the North?”
“They looked like us but they did not live as long. Then I saw a wood far from here in the East. It was cursed.”
“A cursed wood,” I asked perplexed. “These visions are frightening but why would that keep you from starting a family?”
“That is what Nimeithel asked,” Oropher said.
“And what was your answer?”
Oropher looked at me—his face stoic.
“I told her I was told to wait.”
“Told by whom,” I asked.
“That is what I do not know,” he started. “All I know is they were adamant about and unwavering in their request.”
“It was just a vision, Oropher,” I said. “Do not let it determine how you will live your life.”
“Who is Taurëa,” he asked.
I stopped abruptly as a child rant through me. I had not heard her name for so long.
“Where did you hear her name,” I asked.
“In my visions,” he said. “Who was she? Did you not know of her?”
“I knew here,” I said. “She was the mother of Denethor.”
Oropher’s face lit up with curiosity.
“She was close to Grandmother, was she not?”
“Yes, she was,” I said. “What did she say to you?”
“She said only that great things will come of me. Then she walked into the wood.”
“The cursed wood,” I asked.
“Yes,” he said. “You know of what I speak?”
I nodded. I did not wish to tell him no more. I could see he wanted to know more but my rescue came in the form of Amdir and Eldôr.
“We were looking everywhere for you,” Amdir said as they approached.
“Yes,” I asked, relieved. “What is it?”
“We have guests in the court,” Eldôr said. “They have come a great distance.”
“From where have they come,” Oropher asked.
“From Eldamar,” Amdir said.
We stood there in shock for a time. We followed them back to Menegroth to greet the Eldar that had seen the home we never knew.
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 V: The Coming of Time (Pt. II)
The walk to Menegroth was one of mourning—our heads bowed in silent procession. My thoughts were many; blurred by tears and heartache. How could I face Lothluin? What would I say to Valdôr’s son?
“How did he fall,” I whispered to Êlengolas. “How did Valdôr fall?”
“Bravely,” he whispered back. “That is all anyone needs to know.”
“What do I say to Lothluin,” I asked.
“Why is it your burden to bear, Orothôn,” he asked. “Let those that witnessed his death tell his wife and son.”
“You,” I asked. “Were you there?”
Êlengolas sighed deeply.
“I was,” he started. “It is my burden to bear. My daughter wed his son. Even now, I do not know if this ware will make either of my daughters widows but I have seen it make many—not the least of those, Lothluin. But I will do what I must. Valdôr was one of my dearest friends.”
I could hear him trying to hold back tears as spoke. I could not imagine what he had seen and I dared not ask him. We walked the rest of the way to Menegroth in silence. As we made our way toward the bridge, the distant sounds of howls and screams seemed to further destroy any hope we had left.
Galathil started to lead the few survivors of Ossiriand found alive—a small mingling of a few strong men, maidens and several elflings—toward the gates. We prepared to cross behind when a light illuminated the darkness from out of the West. King Thingol and Elmo ran through the soldiers to see. It was a flickering light with plumes as dark as a starless night rising into the Heavens.
“What is this,” Elmos asked his brother.
“It is the end of all of us,” King Things said. “Into Menegroth!”
We made our way across the bridge and through the gates as quickly as we could. Once inside, the ladies came to us frantically. In the confusion, Mîrwen found and embraced me.
“You returned,” she said.
“Yes, I said, dropping my sword. “I am one of the few.”
She looked at me—her eyes filling with tears as she followed my gaze to Êlengolas speaking with Lothluin. She fell into the arms of Valdúmîr. Mîrwen turned away.
“Is there
“None,” she said. “I cannot bear the silence.”
I said nothing as my concern turned to Oropher. I knew we would both die of despair at the loss of our son.
“Go to Lothluin,” I said. “I will see you in our chambers after a while.”
Mîrwen nodded. I kissed her forehead and made my way down to the armory with the others. As I took off my armor, I somehow began to want to return to it. I sat down beside it on the wooden bench the length of the room. I felt a sensation foreign to me—a weakness ran through me and I desired to sleep as a newborn elfling. Êlengolas sat beside me looking as weary as I felt.
“How is Lothluin,” I asked. Even my voice felt tired.
“I know not her thoughts but her heart is broken,” he answered. “She waits for word of Eldôr with Valdúril. His return will give her hope.”
“It will give me some hope as well,” I said. “I know where he is, Oropher is not far. They are closer than brothers.”
“I believe they will return,” Êlengolas said. “They are too headstrong to die. Especially Oropher.”
I laughed—it seemed a lifetime since I had.
“True,” I said. “Oropher can be stubborn.”
“That is why I allowed him to marry Nimeithel. I knew with him she would always be safe.”
I smiled at Êlengolas. I put my hand on his shoulder.
“They will return.”
**** **** **** ****
Once I was bathed and dressed properly for court, I made my way towards my chambers. I thought of all the things I had seen in battle and wondered if there would come a time when such things would become only memory. When I reached the main hall, things were much quieter—only a few elves lingered near the gates. I turned to go to my chambers when I saw Iarûr and his wife Nimríel outside Finëar’s chambers.
“Is something the matter,” I asked. It had been some time since I heard from Finëar or his wife Nenduriel.
“You have nothing to fear, Orothôn,” Iarûr said. “Finëar is fine if but a bit rattled.”
“He was appointed to assist Iarûr in chronicling the war,” Nimríel said. “He has just returned from the western borders of Doriath.”
“Is that not where Oropher was sent,” I asked.
“I do not know,” Iarûr answered. “But I have not heard from my other chroniclers of yet. I suspect they will return soon.”
“We can only hope,” I said quietly. I continued on my way.
When I came to my chambers, I entered to find Mîrwen with Nimeithel.
“How are you, Nimeithel,” I asked her. She looked frightened though I knew the reason why.
“I was with Lothluin and my sister,” she began. “I cannot imagine how it must be to lose a husband.”
“And you will not know,” I said. “Nor will Valdúril. I know they will return.”
“Why are you so sure,” Mîrwen asked. “Is there
“I know Oropher,” I said attempting to sound hopeful. “He is a strong and formidable warrior.”
“What evil did you see,” Nimeithel asked. “What evil will Oropher face?”
I did not want to tell her in fear of frightening both of them.
“They are strong, but he is stronger,” I said.
They stared at me—their eyes cutting through me like a sword through an
“Orothôn, tell us what you have seen,” Mîrwen demanded sternly.
“What I saw I cannot describe in words you would understand,” I answered. “These creatures are beyond explanation.”
Nimeithel began to cry as Mîrwen comforted her. I felt guilty for saying anything at all. I sat down on the bed and watched them from across the room. The true horrors of Ossiriand were still fresh in my mind. I began to doubt my son would return. A knock came to our door.
“Enter,” I said, still deep in thought. It was Galathil.
“Orothôn, come,” he said.
I rose from the bed, looked at my wife and Nimeithel and feared the worst. We left quickly without a word. Once in the hall, we began walking swiftly toward the Great Hall.
“My son,” I began. “Is he dead?”
“I do not know,” Galathil began. “No one knows where he is.”
I stopped abruptly. Galathil motioned to me.
“What do you mean no one knows where he is?”
“He left his post,” he said. “Or that is what I was told.”
“What you were told,” I said angrily. “Who told you this?”
Galathil came to me.
“Amdir was with him and Eldôr at the start. Come with me, Orothôn. You may ask him yourself.”
I nodded and we continued on. Once we reached the hall, I realized a few elves had started to return from the borders. We found Amdir among them with his wife Anadriel.
“Go to my mother,” Amdir whispered to her. “I must speak with Father.”
She nodded and left us.
“What do you know of Oropher,” I asked.
“He left us not long after we were attacked,” he began. “He and Eldôr followed Aúrion to the southern borders.”
“Aúrion,” Galathil asked puzzled. “Was he not with Círdan in Eglarest?”
“No,” Amdir answered. “He came with Eäros. He collapsed by the gates.”
“What was he doing in battle then,” I asked.
“It was not fighting,” he said. “He was looking for anyone to go with him back to Eglarest.”
“With the blessing of Thingol,” Galathil asked.
“I do not know,” Amdir answered. “I only saw Oropher and Eldôr leave with him. Whether they were able to pass beyond the border I cannot say.”
I felt fear and anger—fear for Oropher’s well-being and angry at his actions.
“I need to find my son,” I said to myself.
“Where would you begin to look,” Galathil asked. “You have barely ventured anywhere save Ossiriand as it is. The Queen will not allow you to pass for such a journey. Not while those creatures remain anywhere near.”
“Then how would Aúrion get into Doriath or lead anyone out,” I asked, my voice growing louder. Before I could say another word, Celeborn entered excitedly.
“Ada,” he yelled, looking for Galadhon. He saw us and ran over. “Uncle, where is Father?”
“I have not seen him for some time,” Galathil told him. “Perhaps he is with your mother. What is wrong?”
“You must come outside,” he said. “There is something in the sky.”
“In the sky,” Amdir asked. “Are you mad, cousin?”
“Galathil saw it, too,” he answered.
“What is going on,” Elmo asked coming to us. “Celeborn, what are you going on about?”
“It is in the sky,” a familiar voice said. We looked to see Oropher standing with Eldôr.
“Oropher,” Amdir said smiling as he went to him. “Where have you been?”
I just stood there in disbelief.
“I told you they would return,” Êlengolas said as he passed on his way outside.
Oropher walked over to me and embraced me.
“You came home,” he whispered. “I knew you would. Come, see.”
I was too relieved to scold my only child. Out of curiosity, I made my way into the darkness. The world had changed. A faint light illuminated the earth with an ethereal glow. Without a thought, we walked beyond the gates and westwardly until we could see the light from what we would call the moon—rising slowly at the farthest point beyond where we had awakened. The faint sound of horns was heard and the rumblings that once shook us in tear seemed nothing compared to what would come to us not long after.
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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