#ARWEN GIVING UP HER IMMORTAL LIFE BECAUSE SHE LOVES ARAGORN SO MUCH IS LIKE A WHOLE THING

[coveredinsun]

IF I THINK ABOUT GIMLEAF ANY MORE I WILL GENUINELY GO INSANE. GET OUT OF MY HEAD

[torchwood-99]

There's something very grim about Aragorn and Arwen's love story. It adds to the poignancy, and makes it read very much as a tragic love story.

Yet the tragedy is entirely Arwen's.

Aragorn and Arwen meet, and Arwen is seen by Aragorn as a treasure belonging to her father.

And it is her father's terms Aragorn accepts in order to "win" her.

He succeeds, and he leads a very happy life with her, until he feels old age approach.

He then decides to end his life at will, sparing himself the onset of old age, allowing him to die while still a vision of masculinity.

Arwen clearly feels that they still have time left together, but Aragorn does not wish to go suffer infirmity and old age.

He does not want to fall from his "high seat", he does not want to see himself "unmanned". He wishes to evade old age are wrapped up in a desire to to die before he his kingliness and manliness is compromised.

Aragorn, being of the blood of Numenor, is able to make that choice.

He is able to go at his will, when he is ready.

And it does seem it was the right choice for him.

He dies a vision of a King among Men, his glory and grandeur never diminished.

However, in making this choice for himself, Aragorn also makes this choice for Arwen.

Arwen's wish for Aragorn to live a while longer is tied up in her own belief that her life is not yet ended. This had a double meaning. Arwen feels she still has life yet to live, so perhaps cannot reconcile that with Aragorn accepting his life is coming to an end.

However, elves can die, or fade, from sorrow, so in choosing death for himself, and therefore sorrow for Arwen, Aragorn, if not inflicting a death sentence onto Arwen, is putting her life in peril.

She has no choice, the choice she made, between mortality and immortality, was made long ago, and she does not speak of that choice without regret.

She must now accept the Gift of Man, regardless of whether or not she wills it. She does not choose to stay now, because she will, but because her choice was made long ago, and there is no way to unmake it.

And she made this choice before she truly understood what it meant.

It's a fascinating insight into Arwen's head. She speaks of scorn, of judgement, she comes across as someone proud now humbled, for she judged people before she knew what it was to fear and grieve death, and now she is facing the same fate, she has to admit to her pity for them.

She made a choice to accept the Gift of Man before she knew what accepting that gift entailed, and now she has made it and it cannot be undone, she accepts it because she must.

While Aragorn dies a triumphant vision of glory and greatness, Arwen fades.

The light within her dies. She becomes cold and grey. There is a harshness about this description, she sounds a little like Eowyn did, when she was in despair "cold and stern as steel".

She goes back to Lothlorien, where she lived happily with her kin, and dies there alone.

It is interesting that she isn't buried or interred with Aragorn, she isn't laid beside him as his queen, to join him in death as in life (although hopefully their souls will be reunited), but instead she is buried in the land that had once belonged to her elven kin.

Her longing to return to this place, to this time, when she still had her family about her, her wish to die not near Aragorn and by Aragorn's children, but alone in a land that holds only memories, is poignant, and rather suggestive, because this doesn't scream of a woman who is content with the choices she made. Clinging onto the past rather than embracing the present (she does have children, perhaps grandchildren, but that is not enough). And not just sorrowful, but cold and grey in that sorrow. Does that hint at a bit of anger there? Does that suggest more than a little regret?

Does she regret, ever so slightly, giving up her immortality, giving up ever being reunited with her father, her brothers, her mother and grandmother and all her kin and people, parted from them beyond death, for a man who chose to die and so chose for her to die, to spare himself old age and infirmity, to spare seeing himself grow unmanned and falling from his high seat.

[halfelven]

Arwen, Elladan & Elrohir for the character bingo? :D

Love the way you write the peredhel and your thoughts on them generally!!

- main of @olorinestel

💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

repeating i do not have a saviour complex i do not have a saviour complex i do not have a saviour complex (< lying)

okayyyyyyy sooooooo. let’s start with arwen. when i first heard the goes to lie down alone in an empty land to die story i didn’t speak for several hours and i was still feel the pain of it and can taste the scent of fallen pine needles and see the golden sun on the warm bark of the shaking trees. i’m screaming and crying and throwing up. she is not like me. i do not get the falling in love thing. i’m checking mommy and daddy issues bc of what happened to her mom and the whole separation thing with her dad. i do think they were great parents

also she is insane. and it’s so good. especially with piercing gazes striking little hobbits and all that. close connections to her insane grandparents. whatever the hell is going on with her and aragorn. obsessed.

look elladan and elrohir came out the same but i’ll go with elrohir first

here’s where i do NOT have a saviour complex comes in. i did not read about them at five years old and dream of knowing violence and loneliness and peril to save people.

anyways babe gets mommy reasons for obvious reasons. daddy issues bc of the immortality or not reasons. do i think he would actually punch me? doubtful. but he’d probably stop me if it were the wild and he didn’t know if he could trust me. i didn’t choose my name partially bc it’s similar to his btw. i didn’t pretend i was elrohir and my sister was elladan and still have our nicknames set from theirs in my phone btw.

i don’t give a fuck what tolkien says!!! his name is star-rider!!! and it’s a tribute to earendil. tolkien can fucking fight me!!!!

god riding through the wilderness to tell aragorn hey daddy says we should go through the paths of the dead. elvish wights. dark magic and a fucking ghost army. i’m sooooo normal about him. i can’t picture every detail of his clothes and i have never pretended hallucinations were him until i wasn’t scared of them anymore. never had dreams about him that don’t even feel like dreams either. i’m so sane and normal. i don’t hate him because the self imposed pain he takes to protect the world hits too close. don’t relate to saving my mother from torments but not being able to save her either.

on to elladan

same mommy and daddy issues. again he probably wouldn’t actually punch me but maybe he would under certain circumstances.

i included a lot of the insanity when talking about his brother because they go together in a lot of that. also never had super weird dreams about him that took too long and had too much reading in them. only normal dreams.

but seriously i think the immortal thing with half elves goes a bit to their head. like the being able to live for thousands of years but you could drop it? insane.

also gonna fight tolkien bc i swear all three of them were kids at the same time. like seriously fight me tolkien. (i think i could take him)

again i’m soooooo normal about him. nothing about throwing everything aside to make my life about a singular purpose (or maybe not singular. protection and revenge. also you have to look at orcs as metaphors for this to work*)

stopping now or this will be too long. have to put it under a cut as is

*i like my ideas of what orcs are better than tolkien’s. i actually much prefer a few of my systems in fantasy to his. and i prefer my own fantasy world to his over all

thank you for the ask and for liking how i write them!!! they are some of the characters that got me through a lot of things and i will always love them even if i also write them suffering

[uivellyn]

omg nina i was cleaning and had some thoughts... could you see arwen having a different fate than what tolkien had for her? if so what kind? although she chose a mortal life she lived well over 100 years so how long do you think she would have lived? + are there any characters you can see her interacting with, be prior to or following aragorn?

okay so jo you have just awoken a whole spiel within me, thank you for this I have many thoughts about Arwen!!!!! here we go, I'll try and organize them as best I can!!!!!!

a different fate . . . . being the granddaughter of Galadriel, great-granddaughter of tuor, a descendant of Turgon through idril and Tolkien has her die in the woods of heartbreak? GETS ME EVERY TIME. dying of heartbreak is a thing that can happen to elves they can fade but personally, i feel she carries on without aragorn for the sake of her children. her daughters??? unnamed? a crime. i honestly think she’d adore her children and even when they’re grown would see aragorn in their eyes and smiles and even actions as most parents tend to! i want to see her teaching her children swordplay and elvish tales and tales of men and insight to rituals and hobbies and lessons they both teach their children . . . i want her daughters named after her mother and perhaps grandmother! IDK I'm just very soft about Arwen maintaining roots in subtle ways as she gives up immortality but not the memories of those who love(d) her, as Aragorn comes to realize despite being raised by elves, he's MORTAL and comes to accept that I like to think they can't quite shed the ways in which they were raised ??? I'm just soft about her singly elvish lullabies to her children and then repeating them to her on her death bed. I want her to pass in a room full of love and support of family, children && grandchildren alike!! that's how I gaslight myself into thinking she died surrounded by children and mortal friends she'd made along the way. honestly, I have many thoughts about how long I think she COULD live but I like to think she grows old much slower than one would think as I personally just like the thought of Arwen seeing multiple generations of kings and queens past but that's just me. i get so sad thinking about how Elrond and celebrian will never meet their grandchildren SOB. thinking about her brothers who had to give her up as well. just sometimes i get so sad thinking about arwen sometimes man,,,,,,

on people I'd like to see her interact more with . . .i think about Arwen growing up with two twin brothers and the mischief they would get into and I also think about Arwen learning her sword skills from Glorfindel late lord of Gondolin and balrog slayer and I just EXHALE because whilst they live in a homely haven I feel Arwen's energy levels and need to move and learn,,,,, but you know. (i want someone to compare Arwen's eldritch Luthien beauty to that of Galadriel and I personally hc Arwen is an unsettling beauty as Luthien and elves of the first age were sometimes described if that makes sense, odd hair things, penetrating gazes, she got a heart of gold but damn is her presence not unsettling and thrumming with old power.) I think I’d love to have seen Arwen and Eowyn speak more, if Arwen had gone to helm's deep(ALSO WANNA TALK ABOUT HOW THE SCENE OF ARWEN SHOWING UP TO HELMS DEEP TO FIGHT WAS CUT FROM THE MOVIE ILL NEVER FORGIVE THEM FOR THAT) I ponder on the events that would have taken place. there are more ways than one to be fierce and hold hope and fight for your dream but damn would i have loved to see Arwen kick severe and major ass, i wonder what her cool sick armor would have looked like but you know! It is my bi brain thinking about Eowyn's deep admiration and love for Arwen's will and freedom, her drive to be with the man she loves and to fight for middle earth and tbh in my head, I can see her having feelings for arwen > aragorn but hey I mean she has two hands lol. and who could blame her. not me. plus they have much in common and I feel their convos would be full of questions and laughter and emotion. i would like to see the power of Arwen's song and sword in action though on the real. i’d also love to have seen an expansion on the friendship between Arwen and Legolas seeing as I’m sure they crossed paths and I think their friendship would be so amazing to flush out I have many thoughts about that as well.

[blazingstar24]

Been reading and watching a lot of LOTR lately and thinking about the parallels between Shadowgast and Luthien and Beren. (Of course there is also the more well known Arwen and Aragorn) But not in the sense of “They were elves and their lover was a mortal” although that definitely is a huge parallel between the two ships. It’s the line about Luthien and Beren’s relationship that strikes me so hard about Shadowgast.

“He was her love, but he was also her doom.”

This line is spoken about the story of Luthien and Beren. In short, Luthien is a elf woman(also half Maiar), daughter of a very powerful Elven king. She falls in love with Beren, who is a mortal man. After doing a lot of badass things to get her father to agree to let her marry this guy, she gives up her immortality, much like Arwen, to die alongside her love. It’s romantic, but it’s also seen as tragic in the eyes of the elves and some mortals like Aragorn. Because like the line says being with Beren means she can be with her love, but it also dooms her to die and never be reunited with her elven kin in the West. (I do recommend checking out the full story of Luthien and Beren because it is a wonderful story.)

However in the context of Shadowgast, this lines fits them so much as well. It’s in a different way as Essek cannot have the same lifespan as Caleb. Nor would Caleb choose to find a way to prolong his life. But the line about being someone’s love and their doom fits the two of them because in a way Caleb is Essek’s doom.

Not Essek himself. But the persona of the Shadowhand. The person Essek was before meeting the M9 is doomed to die because of his love for these people. Caleb Widogast. The man Essek loves has also played a hand in ruining him. For the better, of course. And that’s why this line strikes me so much as a Shadowgast vibes sort of line. It can be read backwards in this sense, I guess.

It sums up the strange beautifulness of their relationship. That day that Caleb whips out the Beacon in front of the Dynasty? Essek’s ruin is written out in clear letters right there. Caleb destroys, unknowingly, Essek’s whole espionage career right there. Thus, slowly but surely pushing Essek down the path of redemption. With every act of love and friendship that Caleb—and the M9—show and give to Essek, they are destroying the Shadowhand and pulling Essek out.

So Caleb is both Essek’s love and his doom. His love, to be there for him—for as long as he can give him—to learn and grow alongside him, to heal and find happiness again. But also his doom, destroying the cold unattached persona of the Shadowhand, confronting him with the gravity of his sins.

You would think Essek would hate the M9 for ruining him. They foiled his plans for knowledge and unmasked him like a Scooby Doo villain. But he loves them. If Essek was a truly evil person, more like Trent, he would have fought the M9 when they discovered his secret. Yet it is love, his love and friendship with the M9 that makes him not that person. It is that love that brings about his doom because holy fuck Essek could not lie and cover his ass when they talked to Dezrin Thane.

And in a way, it’s a happier sentiment than what the quote is originally describing. But that parallel in the force of love being such a strong and powerful thing is still there. Just in a different way. For Luthien, it meant loving someone so much, she was willing to die for them. For Essek, it means loving someone so much, he was willing to change for the better for them.

[elvish-sky]

We Will Live

A.N: Happy Valentine’s day, everyone! You can probably tell that some of the lines are modified lyrics from One Republic’s I Lived, so the credit for those goes to them. Also- I’m sorry it’s so short!! I didn’t want to add unnecessary stuff, and I also wanted to post it on Valentine’s day (because I have an angsty fic that I’ll be ripping your hearts out with soon) and I honestly kinda like it like this but I’m still sorry. I hope it’s ok!

Requested by Nonny: hey maia <3 i’ve got a request for you, but if you don’t wanna write it i totally get it bc you have a bunch of stuff to write. so, it’s kinda sad, but a Legolas fic inspired by the song “I lived” by OneRepublic? Like, the reader saying a sad farewell to Legolas because she’s mortal? like her wishes for her love when she’s gone? but, if you can, find a way to make it a somewhat fluffy ending. that’s a lot so don’t feel pressured to write it if you don’t wanna lol. much love. -Nonny💞

Pairings: Legolas x Reader, mentioned Aragorn x Arwen

Summary: You don’t want Legolas to tie himself to you, a mortal. Inspired by One Republic’s I Lived.

Warnings: Angst, Fluff

****

We Will Live

You leaned on Legolas’ shoulder, sitting on a bench at the top of the Guarded City in the moonlight. Aragorn had been crowned king that day, and while you had been happy for him, happy to see him finally recognized for who he was, and reunited with his love, you had also seen the pain on the elves' faces as Arwen kissed him. They knew that now she was lost to them, having given up her immortality, and you had been reflecting on this since. 

You didn’t want Legolas to give up his immortal life for you. 

“I hope that one day you can look back and truly say that you lived.” You brushed Legolas’ hair from his face, taking in the sight of him glowing in the moonlight for the last time.

“I wish that I could witness it all, all your joys and pains, but I will not let you shackle yourself to a mortal.”  You were trying not to cry, this was the hardest thing you’d ever had to do. He was starting to get what you meant and looked devastated. 

“It hurts to go, but I have to. I can’t do this to you. Goodbye, Legolas.” You rose, not wanting to draw this out any longer, but he stood too. He moved in front of you so that he was looking into your eyes.

“We fell in love, and it hurt because we gave it our all. And we’re gonna keep giving it our all. I’m not giving up on you, and you can’t give up on me.” 

You blinked at him. You hadn’t expected that. 

“But you cannot give up your whole life yet!”

“And I won’t. We’ll figure it out as we go.”

You nodded at him. “Alright.” 

He cupped your chin in his hand, bringing it up and kissing you. 

He pulled away and whispered, “we will live, Y/N. We will do it all together.”

And you did.

You had helped rebuild Minas Tirith together, laughing as Aragorn struggled to adjust to kingly life. You had left for Ithilien soon after, while he and Gimli had gone to fulfill their promises and see the Glittering Caves and Fangorn forest. You had restored the forests of Ithilien with the two of them, your love and your friend. You owned every second that the world had given you, and when it was time for Legolas to join his people in the Undying Lands he brought you and Gimli with him. 

You truly had lived. 

Everything tag: @entishramblings @itgetsatadhazy @boyruins @anjhope1

Legolas tag: @bitter-sweet-farmgirl @sheriffgerard

[luna-redamancy]

Thief - Elrond x Reader

Word count: 1852

Note: i am extremely tired, so forgive me for any spelling or grammar mistakes! This is a request for @moony-artnstuff​

Waking up, you were startled to say the least. The bandages around your waist, the brightness of the room, your things nowhere near you, it was definitely a startling moment. Sitting up, you grunted, clutching your abdomen before shaking your head. 

“Not going to anyone's dungeon today,” You held your breath as you stood up straight, knowing you needed to make your escape quickly. 

You see, you weren’t a favored person amongst certain groups, and by that you meant anyone who wasn’t of a commoner status. You were a thief but not exactly a thief. You stole what you needed to survive, and  gave the rest to those who needed it. You started slowly with pickpocketing rich noblemen at taverns, hating the way they would yell at barmaids and not leave a single tip for the trouble they would cause. Using your good looks, you found it easy to lower their guard and take whatever coin they had on them. 

Going from pickpocketing to robbing a bank after the rumor of the bank owner forcing their employees to scam the common folk out of more money for the owner’s greed, you had a high bounty on your head to be jailed. 

Hobbling down the hallway, you winced as you felt your stitches begin to open. Clutching your side, you hoped the pressure was enough to stop you from bleeding out until you reached safety. “How did this even happen?” You thought as you tried to recall the events before you were unconscious in a bed. 

Furrowing your brows, you remembered the previous night. You were traveling by the hidden pass to get to a village on the skirts of Rivendell, having goods to sell before you would try to rent a cottage to stay low during the winter months. 

“Orc blade,” You thought, noticing the deep purple lesions after taking a peek under your bandages to see how bad it was. You were ambushed by a raiding party of orc’s, and while you consider yourself a decent swordswoman, you were no match for eight orcs plus their wargs guarding their masters.

A shout of surprise broke you from your thoughts, the sounds of quick footsteps making you hurry down the hall, until you found stairs that lead to a lower level of the building. “I will not be put in prison for helping people,” You whispered as you hobbled down the stairs. 

“Please, Miss! Your stitches will come loose!” You paid no mind to the worry in the healer's voice as you broke into a sprint, now hearing more footsteps following the healer’s. “Must be guards” You thought as you ducked into a new hallway, watching as the healer and several guards go past. Nodding in satisfaction for outsmarting them, you took a look out the window, grinning when you saw stables. “A horse would be the easiest way out of here…” You mumbled, wincing when you heard a guard shout, “She’s here!” 

Elrond was trying to enjoy his morning. He had a wonderful cup of tea imported from the Shire with some berries coated in honey. But now, he was annoyed to say the least. When he found out the human they had found near the hidden pass was awake, he was overjoyed, happy to go speak to you and question you about the previous night’s events. However, he wasn’t overjoyed to hear that you were running away. From what? He didn’t know. 

Elrond sighed as he approached his head guard and healer. “My Lord,” they bowed, “We believe her stitches have come open,” They motioned towards the floor, where several blood spots were gathered on the floor. 

Sliding out the window, you looked down to the ground. It was a far jump for sure, however, you’d rather take a broken ankle over being imprisoned for the rest of your life until you were executed by whatever royal you managed to piss off. Taking a deep breath, you held in a scream as you fell to the gardens near the stables, the shock making your knees hurt for a moment before you grinned. “No broken ankles today!” You cheered as you ran toward the stable. Slipping into the first occupied one you could find, you loaded the horse with a saddle. “C’mon darling, let’s get me outta here,” You cooed, clicking your tongue to get her to start walking. 

Your blissful escape was then ruined, by a guards voice. “You! Stop!” They yelled out, causing your horse to turn around to face him. “No way,” You whined, tugging on the reins, “This way, escape time, not guard time!” You cried as the horse continued walking closer, your expression downcast as the healers, guards, and Lord Elrond watched you pout at them. 

“Traitor,” You hissed at the horse as the healers helped you off of him. 

“You seem to have broken horses.” You said blankly, crossing your arms over your chest, waiting for the guards to put chains around your wrists and ankles. 

“And you thankfully do not have any more injuries.” Elrond sighed, looking you over. 

“Why were you running?”

“Why wouldn’t I run?” You questioned back, cocking your hip to the side. 

“We aren’t trying to harm you, human, we found you on our borders and wanted to take care of your injuries.” The healer explained, wincing at the amount of blood surrounding your wound. How you managed to rip all of your stitches  in such a short amount of time, she didn’t want to know.

“You… weren’t trying to put me in prison?”

Elrond cocked a brow, “What would we imprison you for?”

“Oh, nothing at all.” You grinned, but it slowly fell from your face as you saw the guard you punched in your escape, a bruise freshly forming. 

“Ah… My apologies… For punching your guard, and for trying to escape with your horse…. And for ripping open all of my stitches,” You sheepishly rubbed the back of your neck as Elrond shook his head, the healers guiding you back to the healing chambers. 

-

“That’s how you first met my father?” Arwen wiped the tears from the side of her eyes from laughing so hard. 

“Indeed.” Elrond hummed from the entryway to the gardens you two were sitting in. 

After your initial big escape plan failed, you ended up remaining in Rivendell, being offered asylum from those who sought to persecute you for your actions. Along with your new home, you developed friendships with many along the way, Arwen, Lindir, Elladan, Elrohir, and even Elrond, just to name a few.

Elrond and you had become the closest, you’d have to say. For you two were the quickest to develop a rapport. You both had similar interest in books, and he often came to you for advice when dealing with human leaders of villages and towns, to help him determine the best ways to help the people and not the politicians. 

“Well, I think I am going to head off to check on Aragorn, I think he’s gone much too long without seeing my face.” Arwen laughed as she stood from the grass, giving her father a knowing look as it ended up just being the two of you in the gardens.  

“Don’t be a stranger,” You nearly laughed at his stiffness, not seeing him so wound up looking for a very long time. “Come on, sit down,” You patted the grass next to you as you laid down to look up at the moon. 

Elrond strode over to you, sitting beside you quietly. 

“What’s wrong?” You questioned after a moment of silence, easily being able to understand that something was upsetting him for him to not interact with you. 

“Are you happy here? With us.. With me?” Elrond asked, looking to the stars to ask Valar for guidance.

“Of course I am, why? Has something made you doubt that?” You questioned, propping your head up on your hand, your elbow digging into the cool dirt. 

“Not exactly, no.” Elrond was a very calm and collected man, he wasn’t outright with his emotions, knowing how they can easily influence decisions and how people would react to him. 

Frowning, you tried to decipher his body language but couldn’t figure out quite what was upsetting him. 

“You speak a lot of your friends, your human friends.” Elrond stated suddenly, looking to his lap instead of the stars. “I just wanted to ensure you were okay.”

It made sense now. He was worried how you were being affected, forced to see your own morality smack against their immortality. 

Grinning, you allowed yourself to relax back down into the grass blades. 

“I miss them, that’s for sure. I miss the events that created fond memories.” You spoke soft, noticing him tense slightly before continuing. “However, I am so happy to be able to create new meaningful memories with all of you.” 

Deciding to take a chance, you placed your hand over his, watching as his eyes widened as the softness of your skin enveloped his senses. 

“Especially with you, Elrond.” You waited until his eyes focused on your face before giving him a soft smile. 

Elrond felt his anxieties leave him as he drowned himself in your gentle expression, moving to lace his fingers with yours.

“I have a confession to make, (Y/n).” 

Tilting your head as a silent cue to continue, you refused to acknowledge the heat crawling up your neck from the feeling of his hand encasing yours. 

“I have developed feelings for you, for quite some time. I hadn’t wanted to approach you with them because I didn’t want to endanger our friendship.” 

“Elrond--”

“I’m in love with you, (Y/n), and it would be an honor to court you.” Elrond’s eyes focused on your face, analyzing your expression as you struggled to comprehend his words. 

Elrond slowly let go of your hand, taking your silence as a form of rejection. 

“I understand, I hope this does not affect our friendship-”

“No, no… I feel the same,” You found your words, reaching out to grasp his hand back in yours again. “I would love to be courted by you, Elrond.” You grinned, watching as a smile tugged at his lips. 

-

“That’s how you and Ada got together?” Your daughter, Aredhel questioned from her spot in bed, tucked in tight with her stuffed bear in her arm. 

“Indeed,” Elrond came in like how he had so many years ago, except instead of coming in here to confess his feelings for you, he came to give your daughter a goodnight kiss. 

“Mama was so amazing…” She sighed dreamily, snuggling into her blankets. 

Laughing you pecked her forehead, pulling back to allow Elrond to do the same before he tugged you off the end of her bed and into your bedding chambers. “You are amazing,” He cooed to you before pressing his lips against yours. 

“Why thank you my Lord,” You teased, returning his kiss. 

You started out as a thief for the people, and now you were a thief to a Lord, your bounty growing ever higher for stealing his heart. 

Tags-

 @lady-of-lies @all-things-fandomstuck  @fizzyxcustard @izzydaelleth @aquaangel18@raindancer2004 @love-colorfulglittercollection @underthemoon-n​​ @ladylouoflothlorien​ @unlikelysamwinchesteronahunt ​​ @legolaslovely​ @bthtallmadge2​ @abesottedlass @wilhelmyna @tigereyesf​ @aspookybunny​

Elrond Tag-

@moony-artnstuff​

[the-imagination-archive]

𝕽𝖊𝖙𝖚𝖗𝖓 𝕺𝖋 𝕿𝖍𝖊 𝕼𝖚𝖊𝖊𝖓

Pairing: Aragorn x Elf!Reader + Brother!Legolas

Warnings: Mentions of Blood, war, angst

Disclaimer: Characters and setting belong to J.R.R Tolkien and the elvish may be incorrect. Translations will be at the end. 

Description: The reader and Aragorn had been friends since before the fellow ship had formed, Months prior Arwen had decided to leave him for the undying lands without a second thought. Aragorn was heart broken but when you both had reunited after many years something sparked. You had become his and carried on your quest with the fellowship. During the last fight at Mordor you had fallen, and beneath the rubble and bodies you laid. Still alive but couldn't be found. Everyone returned to Minas Tirith but you. Finally after the long journey from Mordor to Minas Tirith on foot and wounded you long to be healed and to see the face of your beloved after finally attaining victory. But when your eyes fall upon him, the fair she-elf in his arms eyes fall upon you. 

You stood among your comrades with bated breath, the doors of Mordor looming ahead. Closing your eyes you let out a breath in hopes of soothing your fear riddled heart. You left a familiar calloused hand gently cup your cheek and turn your face, eyes still lidded. You felt a forehead press to yours and you stayed still and quiet in that moment.  "Aragorn, please don't die" you breathed out, your breath gently caressing his lips. 

Many days you spent trying to convince him to stay in Minas Tirith, to stay away from Sauron and the Orcs of Mordor. The people would need their king with them, to soothe their fears and give them guidance. How was he to do that from the very gates of Mordor? He would simply shake his head and smile his beautiful heartache of a smile and murmur "Meleth, I shall not lose you in that battle. I shall not sit here in discomfort while you are away fighting for a kingdom that isn't yours." No matter your persistence here he was in front of you. 

Aragorn hushed you, "Battle is never a sure thing meleth. Gi melin, let us enjoy this moment together as it may be our last. Let us not spend what could be our last moment in fear and worry...but in happiness. As there is no more honorable way to die than for the one you love." your lip quiver and pools filled your (E/C) orbs but you held it back because he was right. If you shall die this day you would gladly throw down your immortality for him. "Gi melin" you murmured before meeting his lips, his hand moved from your cheek to your neck as he returned the kiss. 

You both reluctantly pulled away as the gates of Mordor loudly creaked open, scraping the earth, the echo itself instilled fear into the men around you. "Stand your ground men! Sons of Gondor! Of Rohan! My brothers, i see in you I see in your eyes the same fear that would take the heart of me. The day may come when  the courage of Men fails; when we forsake our friends and break all bonds of fellowship; but it is not this day - an hour of wolves and shattered shields, when the Age of Man comes crashing down - but it is not this day!!! This day we fight by all that you hold dear on this good earth I bid you stand!" 

Aragorn raised his sword to the heavens and out erupted howls of determination from the soldiers, they were ready to plunge themselves into the next life if it meant to protect the ones they love. 

Within mere moments of the gates becoming agape hordes or mangled, bloodthirsty orcs flooded out and had surrounded everyone. You sent one last look to Aragorn, your eyes meeting for what felt like a millennia, you could see all your memories flashing through his grey pools. A single tear streaked your cheek as he turned his back and charged into battle roaring out a battle cry that soon all including yourself joined in with. The battle started so quickly, blood of man and orc painting the soil. 

You fought with a clear view of Aragorn, willing and ready to run to his aid if need be. You gripped your elvish blades and slashed all orcs who neared you. Head were sent rolling past your feet while you fought with the passion of a thousand men. Aragorn’s face continued to flash through your mind, the day you met many decades ago, the day he had told you of his feeling for your best friend Arwen, The look he had when she left without so much as a goodbye. You had been so distracted by your thoughts that you failed to notice the filth of a creature coming up behind you. 

"Y/N!!!" Your brother Legolas cried out, twisting around a moment too late as orcish steel pierced through your middle. Aragorn turned hearing the mention of your name and watched in horror as the blade was roughly torn from you. He felt the world pause as your form limply hit the ground. His chest tightened as he saw your eyes slowly flutter shut. 

Rage filled his chest and Hate clouded his eyes as he began fighting with more ferocity than all of the beasts in middle earth. His blade tore through orc after orc feeling nothing but burning pain and the need for revenge coursing through him. Corpses began to pile and  surround the saviors of the world. Frodo had gotten the ring into the pits of mount doom and Sauron was defeated. The survivors cheered for their victory while Legolas and Aragorn searched through as many piles of bodies as they could, searching for their precious Y/n. 

They both stood facing the sunset with heavy hearts. They couldn't find you and they simply hated the though of leaving you to rot among the filth but the return to Minas Tirith was imminent. So with much reluctance and the heaviest burdens they began their journey back. 

It had now been five days since the victory against Sauron. Aragorn had been crowned king and all those who had been part of the fellowship had still hung around to recover as much as possible from their journey before the return home. You had awoken to a mass of orcs above you, motionless and cold. Although orc's weren't ever really warm. You began pushing their massive forms off of your self when you felt white hot pain surge through your abdomen. You held your hand to the throbbing wound and moved the last creature from your body and sat up to see no one. 

It all replayed in your head, you had been foolish and unfocused, your brother cried for you and you had been only a fragment of a moment to late to save yourself. Crimson regret poured from your body as you saw your beloved staring your way before it all went black. now here you stood in the resting ground of the battle with not even a stead to help you get home. 

But nothing was going to stop you from returning to Minas Tirith to make sure your king was alive. 

-three suns pass-

Legolas stood at the railing of the largest balcony of the palace, looking down at the people. Due to his excellent hearing he heard Aragorn’s near silent steps approach. "What am I to tell my father? My sweet gwathel..." Aragorn swallowed thickly and looked out to the people and sighed as he leaned against the railing with Legolas. They both sighed deeply and sat in a silent understanding. Legolas felt a bit of resentment towards Aragorn as it was he who had driven you to going to war in the first place because you loved him. Not only that but Aragorn seemed to welcome Arwen back with no hesitation, as if you hadn't existed and been there for all that time.

Legolas turned and grasped Aragorns shoulder with a grip that was nearly too tight before nodding his head and stalking off. After a few moments Aragorn returned inside and went about his day. 

---

You had stumbled into the kingdom and many eyes were upon you. Whispers of the elvish princess were hear all around you. You had been stopped by a guard and the had called for help, thus another guard on a white stallion arrived and took you to the palace. After a short period you had arrived, still battered and bloody but with an iron clad purpose. You trudged your tired body into the palace and inquired the kings whereabouts tot he very cautious maids. They pointed you to the outer garden that branches off from the throne room. Although the maids tried to stop you in hopes of healing you you kept on and made it to the garden. You heard muffled speaking, his familiar voice reaching your ears like music. It felt as though it was the first ray of sun after an unforgiving winter. 

You rounded the vine wrapped archway and saw him you were both relieved and in pain at the sight before you. His arms were wrapped securely around Arwen’s waist and shoulders, his nose buried in her hair and her hands clinging to his shoulders. You felt flames of betrayal fill your heart and bile creeping up your throat. You had fallen back onto the archway and they both jumped and looked to the source. They both had shock filled gazes and Aragorn saw the pain that swarmed your glossy eyes. He stood and began approaching, but your exhaustion and pain finally caught up to you and your body gave out and you began falling but just in the nick of time your brother had caught you as you fell unconscious. 

"Legolas- H-how? Is she? how did she?" Legolas picked you up and shook his head "I don't know, all i heard was the maids speaking about a wounded elf nearly crawling through the castle...i just knew it was her..." before Aragorn could speak Legolas had carried you off to get you healed up. Arwen stood and walked to stand beside Aragorn who turned to meet her gaze, both feeling the guilt mirror off one another.

Legolas rushed to his room and laid you gently upon the silken sheets while the maids began tending to your wounds. His heart stung, he felt as though he had failed you are a brother. He moved to sit by the window and watched over you as the maids had left you to rest, finally agony slipped from your brows and you slept with comfort. He knew you saw your beloved with another and just as you were, he was unsure of their relation. That was no longer his concern, all he wanted was for you to wake up and be well. --- You slowly began to stir and awoke from your dreamless slumber, you were no longer in your tunic and leggings but in an emerald gown. You stood with slight soreness and looked around, your gaze stopping at the window where the moon caught the sleeping form of your brother. You smiled with fondness at him, the smile soon left your lips as a recollection of the events you had endured. You escaped your chambers soundlessly and walked down the pristine corridors enjoying the silence and the moons rays and they bleed in through the gaps in the velvet curtains. 

You made your way out of the palace and into the courtyard with the white tree stood in the center. You wandered over to the tree letting your eyes capture the beauty of its blossoms before walking over to the stone railing. The moon was waning, you must have slept for at least four days you thought to yourself. Your hands gripped onto the cool stone as your eyes raked through his kingdom. You wanted to be angry with him, you wanted this betrayal to make you furious but you loved him. You wanted to hate him but you simply couldn't, it hurt more to hate him.

 A deep sigh passed through your lips as you closed your eyes letting the breeze dance through your (h/c) locks. "A'Melamin, how i longed for you. To see your face..." you spoke out, letting the moon hear your pain. "I want only for your happiness...Melamin amin panya lle leitha" you looked up to the moon, her light reflecting off of your tears like starlight. 

Unbeknownst to you the king stood only a few steps behind you. You looked like a goddess, the emerald gown blowing slightly in the wind whilst your hair danced in the breeze. You were the princess of Mirkwood after all beauty was something none could deny you. His chest squeezed in pain at the weakness in your voice and that you felt this way. He needed to fix this, he needed to take away the hurt in your voice and clear up the thoughts in your head. 

He took a step forward making sure you could hear him this time and your body snapped to face him "Y/n don't speak like that." Shock was etched into your features as you saw the familiar grayish orbs. You quickly settled your self and bowed slightly "Amin heru..." he shook his head "Do not bow to me Y/n, please." He stepped closer, longing to hold you. 

His face turned to one of surprise to see you take a step back as he neared you. "Y/n, what you saw in the garden-" "I understand M'lord. I apologize for interrupting such an intimate moment" you voice was lightly laced with venom. "I shall be gone by dawn, my brother and I shall return to Mirkwood." you murmured with a bow and excused yourself. 

As you brushed past him his hand came to grip your wrist turning you to face him, your chest nearly pressed to his. "ie' least let amin explain n'ala lle karna such y' decree.  Iluve lle elee nae y' misunderstandien" you looked to your feet and sighed "sut ume amin il- rangwa mani amin elee? amin went oht- ten' lle ar' i' moment lle nowe amin nae ba lle rime right n'alaquel e'a he` ranqui's " you said in a quiet voice and you finally looked up to meet his gaze. "'Tis alright Aragorn, I forgive you. I understand you took comfort in me being around because you missed her. And i was the only she-elf around." he nearly growled at your words.  

"Meleth, Arwen and the other elves returned from the undying lands once the word of our victory got to them. All of the elves came for the coronation, Arwen had been comforting me and I her. We both grieved for you Y/n...We thought you had left this world. We had no intention of becoming lovers again, simply comrades in grief." he finished speaking and your gaze never left his. Your eyes searched his for any inkling of dishonestly but to no avail. Tears began to trail down your cheeks, reflecting the moonlight once again. Aragorn gently cupped your cheek and wiped away the falling stars. "Gi Melin...I could never love again had i lost you." He smiled softly and leaned down slightly to meet your lips in a sweet kiss. Through his kiss he made you feel how much he loved and missed you, he had pulled you completely against his chest needing you as close as possible. 

You both embraced unaware of the elves that stood not to far off with grins on their faces, both relieved to have you back and for your reunion with the king. Once his lips left your he placed his forehead to yours just like how he had during the battle of Mordor. "You have been with me through all hardships Y/n...Please rule beside me, i have no reason to have come this far and be a king if i don't have you beside me." your face became sore with a smile. "Nothing would make me happier than to stand beside you forever, Aragorn." within a moment he had lifted you by your waist and spun you around you both had glee painted onto your faces. 

You both sat beneath the white tree and watch the sun rise on the new day, the day when the queen returned.

------

Translations:

Gi Melin- I love you

Gwathel- sister

A'maelamin - My beloved

Meleth - Love

Melamin. Amin panya lle leitha - My love i set you free

ie' least let amin explain n'ala lle karna such y' decree.  Iluve lle elee nae y' misunderstandien - At least let me explain before you make such a decree. Everything you saw was a misunderstanding 

sut ume amin il- rangwa mani amin elee? amin went oht- ten' lle ar' i' moment lle nowe amin nae ba lle rime right n'alaquel e'a he` ranqui's - How did i not understand what i saw? I went to war for you and the moment you thought i was dead you ran right back into her arm's.  

Hope you guys enjoy! I really wanted to write for LOTR and i plan on doing some more! <3 

-jewel

[lesbiansforboromir]

Messaging you bc u seem like a well of tolkien knowledge. Is sex really considered elf marriage? Does that mean aragorn is an 87 year old virgin, or do you think he had the odd affair here and there (denethor)? I mean, it would be kind of a dick move to cheat on arwen, since she gave up her immortality and everything, but 87 years is a long ass time. this is totally not a move to get aragorn/denethor headconons, btw

I’d act more modest if this wasn’t all I was qualified to do now but it’s still very sweet of you to say. ANYWAY. Ooo lets get into this one.

So, for a start, this concept comes from a section of HoME called LaCE (Laws and customs of the Eldar). Which means, right off the bat, we have to make it clear that this is not true blue tolkien approved canon. Then again, you could make that argument for most of the lore we have and LaCE is the first and only time Tolkien properly discussed sexuality and sexual customs within elves. Hence it wins a place in the overall fandom canon.

So yes in essence Tolkien says that, to elves, sex is marriage. He also says that they do it like rabbits for the first few years to get the babies out of the way but once that’s over with they lose interest, so that sex is just for babies. (He also, interestingly, says that no elves are ‘born in the wrong bodies’ or something to that effect, which means that Jrrt had some concept of ‘trans-ness’, enough that he needed to specify this, which I always find interesting but thats off topic!!) 

With all that being said, people do tend to just ignore it and have whatever fun they like, which is very valid. I am unfortunately cursed with a brain that demands I make sOMething of the canon it’s given or I just can’t get dopamine. So I do apply to it. BUT, as with everything Tolkien writes, you have to look at it not as a word of god, but as an in-universe historical text written by an in-universe author and then translated/copied/edited by in-universe historians with in-universe biases! And specifically, LaCE is written by a mortal human man and probably at least partly by a man named Aelfwine, who is from our world and literally just got lost in a storm and fell into Middle Earth and found Tol Eressea one day and decided to write a book about it. 

How well do you think a human man from the irl earth who had to be taught elvish and arrived millenia after the war of the ring could accurately understand and describe Quendi laws and customs from that time? I’ll give you a hint, not that well!

And even then, lets look at the title, it’s not ‘Biologically determined behaviour of the eldar’ it’s ‘laws and customs’ so... the general cultural attitudes, not the absolute unflinching facts of elven life. We also know canonically it’s bullshit since... Finwe literally married again after his first wife died... like he literally went to Manwe and was like pwease mistew manwe siw can I have some mowe coochie? and they just said hmmmm yes you may and I DO need to make a bigger post about how fucking wild it is that Finwe actually needed that permission and how that essentially proves my theory that a lot of these customs are Valar enforced and holdovers from Valinor so the Silvan and Avari elves wouldn’t even apply to this- ANYWAY!

That’s a longwinded way of saying I think it’s likely that Aragorn was an 87 year old virgin but it’s not a for definite thing. And, of course, I do just really love the idea of him and Denethor having this wild and angry yet passionate love affair for a hot second but that just breaks down because of all the pressures on them from Denethor’s father ect ect and they both just rebound heavily onto much stabler and more sensible women whom they can fall in love with and adore without all the damn stress. Certainly I think Denethor would be Aragorn’s only exception, he just hasn’t met someone so starkly his equal in all fields before, neither has Denethor, and that’s very potent to the both of them.

ALSO at this point this wouldn’t be cheating. Aragorn just got a crush on Arwen and decided that was that before launching himself into the wild before she’d even MET him. She had no idea who he was until he returned from Gondor and came to Lothlorien, where they officially fell in love and got engaged. After that point I think, yes, that was that for Aragorn’s sex life until he’s married to Arwen. He’s stubborn and an elf fetishist and he’s not gonna give Elrond an inch more reasoning to deny him his daughter’s hand. 

Although the like... weird tension in an AU where Denethor lives... Denethor looks older, more bent, he’s shorter than Aragorn where they used to be of a height... You can really see the struggle of the last 40 years written into his skin whilst Aragorn’s only gotten more regal, age has only made him more venerable and he still doesn’t look that old. But that potent and indomitable spark in Denethor that first drew Aragorn to him is still right there, impossible to ignore... It makes him want to slip right back into their combative and competative banter, he feels oddly young again.... Perhaps a “You shrunk, Lord Steward,” slips out without him meaning too, and Denethor just levels him with this gaze that seems to cut him in two, that strikes to the heart of him, as he answers, “You left, your majesty.” Like bOOM fucking MURDERED in your own hall, how does it fEEL to be boneless Aragorn???

... I hope some of that was what you were looking for :)

[wargwhatisitgoodfor]

GRRM’S Much Ado About Mirrors - The Evenstar Necklace of Game of Thrones

NOTE: This is entirely speculation and doesn’t include any spoilers from any episodes. Also when I reference “missing scenes” in the tv series, I’m not implying that the cast and crew filmed them but instead that the show runners informed the actors that those scenes exist in the narrative and then discussed the impact that those scenes would have on the characters moving forward in the story. Since I am running short on time, I may write a second part to this meta after episode two airs.

I am a book reader who acknowledges that Jon Snow may be in love with Sansa Stark at the start of the story (I don’t want to write about that at this point, so please message me if anyone has written/knows of a meta that explains how that’s possible… I’ll reblog with that addition).  Even at this point in the tv series, his love for her from the beginning could be a part the plot, and, if so, then Jaime Lannister or Bronn (the latter may be more likely at this point) may unknowingly expose it when he meets with Sansa and returns the dragonfly necklace (i.e. the “Evenstar Necklace” of Game of Thrones) that Jon originally gave to her between episodes one and two of season one.

Background Information - Sansa’s Dragonfly Necklace is the Inverse of Arwen’s Evenstar Necklace from The Lord of the Rings:  

In writing the film adaptation of The Lord of the Rings, Peter Jackson took the minor plot point of Arwen giving a necklace to Frodo and turned it into a narrative device regarding Arwen and Aragorn’s love for one another that accomplished several items:

The necklace is a talisman as it provides both protection and comfort to Aragorn just as it originally does for Frodo.

It enabled them to reference their personal history without having to do a flashback.

It conveyed their love for one another as well as Arwen’s sacrifice to forgo an immortal life in order to be with Aragorn.

When the audience views Aragorn touching it/in silent contemplation with the necklace in plain view, the audience can imagine that he is thinking of Arwen without having to verbally express it.

The dragonfly necklace would be the “bastard/poor man’s” version of the Evenstar as Jon would have had to commission and pay for it with limited means unlike Arwen who would have received it as a princess from her family. Although it is the man giving it to the woman in Game of Thrones, it would still convey Jon’s love for Sansa as well as the sacrifice/vow that he made to her as his future queen.

If Jaime/Bronn DOES return this dragonfly necklace to Sansa, the audience should be able to view the tv show from the beginning and understand the impact this necklace has on Sansa:

It is a constant part of her wardrobe as Sansa journeys south and settles in King’s Landing even as she changes her clothing and hairstyles to reflect people who influence her and to assimilate more into the Southern culture. Thus, one can infer all of the positive emotions surrounding this piece of jewelry (e.g. she is proud of the necklace, it brings her joy, makes her feel mature, etc.)

The show runners may have intended it to be a talisman for Sansa/an extension of the vow of protection Jon may have made to her when he presented it to her because whenever she removes it from her wardrobe  her experiences are extremely negative: 

Sansa starts wearing the Lannister necklace that Joffrey gives her, which is shortly before Ned’s capture and execution.

Sansa does not have it on during the King’s Landing riot.

When Sansa is courted by Loras Tyrell/his family, she starts wearing another necklace to model herself after their family. This ends when she finds out that she will be marrying Tyrion and staying in King’s Landing instead of marrying into House Tyrell and leaving for Highgarden.  

For the purple wedding, the show creators have Dontos giving her a poisonous necklace instead of a hair net because a.) the necklace is more visible to the audience than a hair piece, and b.) to give her a reason for not wearing the dragonfly necklace to the wedding when Petyr Baelish kidnaps her.

How could the show pull off a “Jon x Sansa” plot twist without the general audience feeling cheated?

The show’s writers CREATED TWO NARRATIVE DEVICES THAT DO NOT EXIST IN THE BOOKS TO TELL THIS STORY DURING SEASON ONE:

PHYSICAL EVIDENCE is provided to indicate that Jon felt this way towards Sansa from the start (Jon gave Sansa the dragonfly necklace around the same time as he gives Arya her present).

THEON/ROS/TYRION SERVE AS A DOUBLE FOR THE DYNAMIC/FEELINGS AMONGST JON/SANSA/JOFFREY.

Part One: Physical Evidence - The Dragonfly Necklace

Just as Jorah presents Tyrion to Dany in season five and Euron brings Ellaria and Tyene to Cersei in season seven, Jaime will be finishing the “rule-of-three” by giving gifts to the last queen/Lady Sansa as a testament of good faith (if it’s Bronn it’ll be part of his ruse to be accepted and ingratiate himself while in Winterfell). Either man should at least give two specific gifts to Sansa:

NED’S DOLL

JON’S DRAGONFLY NECKLACE

Why these Two Gifts?

The doll should be fairly recognizable for the general audience, and they’ll understand the emotional impact that this has on Sansa. The GA may not remember the necklace, but the doll provides a reference point: a.) these are important to Sansa and are from her past. b.) Jaime/Bronn made an effort to bring them to her, and she will be grateful for their return.

This also provides a juxtaposition between how the original gift-givers viewed her at the time: Ned saw Sansa as a little girl, whereas Jon harbored romantic feelings towards her.

What Happens if Jaime or Bronn Does Return these Items?

It’s highly likely that Jon may place the necklace back on Sansa in a gathering of people. This provides an opportunity for the following:

It would be the POSITIVE MIRROR to the season one scene in which Joffrey manipulates Sansa into trusting him when he apologizes for his past actions, gives her the necklace, vows to never hurt her, and then kisses her.

Depending on how this is shot, it could parallel the impact that Ned’s death has on both the GA and on the other characters in the story in that they both realize that they were mistaken in their assumptions/expectations. The entire plot will be affected along with every single character if this scene takes place.  

Jon and Sansa may be able to acknowledge their feelings for each other at present and what happened between them before they left Winterfell (e.g. one that was fairly innocent on a physical level but that .

It provides a parallel between Jon and Sansa and his parents at the Tournament of Harrenhal, specifically the moment when Rhaegar placed the crown of thrones on Lyanna’s head and “all the smiles died”. To make this clear to the GA, we may be getting another flashback/weirwood tree vision of his parents.

Jon making a similarly inappropriate public display of affection as his father did and recognizing that he did so would enable Jon to accept his family’s past.

Part Two: JON/SANSA/JOFFREY in season one have THEON/ROS/TYRION as their DOUBLE

Growing up as outsiders in Winterfell, Jon and Theon are foils to one another just as Joffrey and Tyrion serve the same role within the Lannister family.  THE RESPECTIVE LOVE INTERESTS FOR JON AND THEON ARE SANSA AND ROS (THE PROSISTUTE FROM WINTERTOWN) WHO ALSO HAVE RELATIONSHIPS WITH MEMBERS OF THE LANNISTER FAMILY THAT ARE DICTATED BY THEIR CULTURAL STATIONS IN LIFE (e.g. Sansa is betrothed to Joffrey, and Ros services Tyrion at a brothel). Both Jon and Theon don’t have the social standing and resources to compete with their respective rivals; however as foils, Jon and Theon would differ in how they would treat their romantic interests and in what they communicate to them about their personal feelings.  

Sansa and Ros not only share similar physical features (tall, beautiful redheads) but are strikingly observant, intelligent, and adaptable despite horrible experiences. Their respective stations in life not only dictate their parallel experiences with House Lannister but with other players in King’s Landing until Ros’s death in season three when Petyr sells her to Joffrey (i.e. Yes, Petyr sells both woman to psychopathic noble bastards who enjoy torturing and killing women her with crossbows).

(NOTE: In making these comparisons between the two Northern women, I am not condoning Sansa’s season five storyline in the slightest.)

What are the Missing Scenes between Sansa and Jon?

BASED ON THE SCENES BETWEEN THEON AND ROS, WE CAN DEDUCE THAT THERE WERE AT LEAST TWO PLANNED “MISSING SCENES” THAT WERE TO HAVE TAKEN PLACE BETWEEN JON AND SANSA:

FIRST SCENE - “PRACTICING KISSING”: AS THE POSITIVE MIRROR TO THEON AND ROS, WE CAN DEDUCE THAT SANSA AND JON’S FIRST SCENE DURING THE COURSE OF THE TV SERIES WOULD BE INITIATED BY SANSA AND WOULD INVOLVE AN INNOCENT ALBEIT PHYSICAL ENCOUNTER, MOST LIKELY TO ‘PRACTICE’ KISSING TO PREPARE HER FOR KISSING JOFFREY. THIS CORRELATES TO BOOK!CATELYN’S MEMORIES OF HER AND HER SISTER PRACTICING KISSING PETYR IN ORDER TO PREPARE THEMSELVES FOR THEIR FUTURE HUSBANDS. DURING THE COURSE OF THIS ENCOUNTER, SANSA WOULD LIKELY REALIZE JON’S JEALOUSY TOWARDS JOFFREY JUST AS ROS COMES TO A REALIZATION ABOUT THEON’S FEELINGS TOWARDS HER. 

SECOND SCENE - GOODBYE AND A GIFT: JUST AS JON GIVES ARYA A GIFT THAT SHE IS THRILLED TO RECEIVE, JON SAYS GOODBYE TO SANSA AND GIVES HER A THOUGHTFUL, GENEROUS GIFT (again the positive mirror to Theon being unprepared to say goodbye to Ros, insulting her at first, but finally admitting his feelings towards her). IN ANOTHER REFERENCE TO THE BOOKS, JON MADE A VOW TO PROTECT THE REALM FOR SANSA, HIS FUTURE QUEEN, AS NED DENIED HIS REQUEST TO ACCOMPANY THEM TO KING’S LANDING AS SANSA’S SWORN SWORD.  AFTER ROBERT’S PROPOSAL OF A BETROTHAL BETWEEN SANSA AND JOFFREY, BECOMING A MEMBER OF THE KNIGHT’S WATCH WAS JON’S SECOND CHOICE.  THAT EXPLAINS JON’S FOCUS ON PROTECTING BOTH SANSA AND THE NORTH; IT WAS HIS FIRST AND LAST VOW, AND HE IS STILL DEVOTED TO IT. 

What is the show conveying about Sansa and Jon with the Dragonfly Necklace?

Again, it symbolizes their initial, budding romantic relationship before they both left their home.

As a ‘bastard’ of House Stark, he wasn’t able to give her a necklace with their house’s sigil on it; however JON INADVERTENTLY GIVES SANSA A DERIVATIVE OF HIS FATHER’S SIGIL.

While in captivity in King’s Landing, it provides proof that Sansa was subverting her captors as she silently but physically conveyed her steadfast loyalty to her family.  Just like Jon couldn’t give her a gift with the sigil of House Stark on it, Sansa wasn’t able to wear anything that could have been mistaken as disrespectul to those who were holding her hostage.

It provided a comfort to Sansa while she was a political prisoner and totally isolated from her family. If Jon indeed swore a vow of protection to her/the realm she would rule as queen, then Sansa was seemingly ‘protected’ whenever she wore it and will once again when it is returned to her.

More than likely, it will continue to be a plot device for both Sansa and Jon just as the Lannister necklace Tyrion gave to Ros influenced both of their narratives.

(I’ll hopefully publish part two later this week.)  

[themerrymutants]

Long ass “what if Aragorn and crew were hipsters” modern au headcanons

@loyalservants​ - since you’d asked to see :)

Under a cut because there’s.. a lot. Also there’s a bit of canon breaking here but what’s a good au without a bit of canon breaking?

Elrond works as head doctor at the local trauma clinic. Having been alive as long as he has he's amassed quite a fortune which he uses to cover the cost of medical care for those who can't afford it himself.

He returned to Middle Earth when word reached him that Aragorn had passed on but his daughter hadn’t. It killed him to leave his wife a second time but, not knowing the fate of his sons, he couldn’t bear the thought of leaving her alone so he pleaded to be allowed to go back and join her and was eventually granted permission on the condition that if he or any others who inevitably follow suit do they will never be able to return. 

Celebrían eventually rejoins her husband and children on December 24th 2008 (modern calendar). In March of 2009 she contacted her parents, with a bit of help from her children, via text pretending to be Arwen. She wasn’t even able to get a simple “hello” out before she was pulled into a tear filled bear hug

Galadriel is a self defense course instructor at the Y and a very active environmental activist and human rights activist because for the love of Eru she’s way too old for your shenanigans humanity and someone has to fix it. humans are cute but by the valar are they dumb. Galadriel is still very much someone nobody wants to f*ck with and those stupid enough to still try anyway end up regretting it dearly. Rule #1 of telepaths: don’t piss off a telepath.

Her husband is a historian and has long since worked with his colleagues to help preserve Elven heritage sites.

Legolas looks wise looks like what would happen if you shoved him and Skrillex in a blender and put it on “puree” and already has a degree as a veterinarian (specializing in exotics) and is a biology and environmental studies dual major.

 Aragorn is a history major and is starting to get the memories of his past life back though he keeps this quiet because he rather enjoys his classes.

Gimli is dual majoring engineering and economics, Pippin and Merry are general studies majors and honestly have no idea what they’re doing half the time but hey at least they’re having fun doing it!

Arwyn, as she spells it in modern day to try and stay lower key, works at a tattoo parlor and has a total Kat Von D look going on which drives her dad up the wall.

Sam and Frodo are ex marines that were on the same squad (only survivors after an IED went off) they are roomies they were honorably discharged and earned a purple heart. Sam is blind in his left eye and Frodo was paralyzed from the waist down both suffer from PTSD. They've got two labs named Samson and Delilah who think they are lap dogs. Samson is a service dog washout (he was supposed to be Sam's dog but he just didn't have the right drive for it) and Delilah is Frodo's service dog. Currently Sam is looking for new candidates. In this AU Frodo died at mount doom so I can have him reincarnate with Sam since there was no way in hell Frodo would come back to middle earth after the sh*t he went through.

Legolas has a blind albino reticulated python named Lucy who was a rescue from a mass breeder. She's a bit off in more ways than one but is as sweet a noodle as possible Legolas often takes in special needs herps that his rescue can't home for various reasons 

Gandalf is the history professor and has become resigned to the fact that humans are dumb af and kind of need perpetual babysitting (races and magic and shit have remained unchanged just because it's more fun that way)

Thranduil is tough as nails and gives 0 fucks. if something needs done to keep those in his territory safe he will do it regardless of legality Cops don't bother coming because it's a cesspool and they've got less taxing things to do He's kind of a mob boss archetype but good and does good well except when he kicks some faces in but they always deserve it. He’s kind of the head of his own lil section of an as of yet unnamed city. He's not like crime or mob boss so much as "police don't do sh*t so we keep the peace instead". Police are happy to do so because the area is basically Gotham crime wise and nobody wants to touch it with a 40 ft pole I love the idea that Thranduil ended up blinded after his run in with Smaug he ended up staying in middle earth the entire time god bless his poor soul. In modern era he ran into a gangster with a fondness for flame throwers and got toasty again. Received extensive burns but survived because 1 Thranduil, and 2 like hell he was gonna die now when sh!t still needs to be kept in order.

Elves did sail to the west but it was less going back home and more "FUCK THIS SHIT I'M OUT" Eventually they come back and first land in ireland becoming the basis of the Tuatha Dé Danann Because I will die on the hill that elves are somehow involved with celtic mythology in the universe of LOTR and yes I know it's not earth but come on The geography actually kind of matches ...no I did not have an embarassing phase where I was way too obsessed with LOTR and calculated this stuff for funsies

I'm also super fond for immortals watching throughout history and just going "why did I do this again?" Also Elrond getting even more done with humanity gives me life

Merry is addicted to idle games and half the storage space on his phone is filled with them. 

Pippin has won a few Pokemon tournaments and even got a scholarship from one of them. He enjoys building teams from "useless" Pokemon and wiping the floor with them. His favorite pokemon to use is Pachirisu because no one expects to have their ass handed to them by a pika clone.

In this AU Aragorn is reincarnated over and over and over again and Arwen somehow manages to find him each time. Sometimes they’re lovers other times they’re just friends and every once in a while she’ll only manage to briefly brush past him before he’s gone again. Her father tried to convince her to go be with her mother but she found that even the short amount of time she got to spend with her love each time was worth the sorrow of losing him again, and again, and again.

Elrond and Celebrían renewed their vows in 2015 after learning of the practice and finding it fitting. Their first dance was to Like I’m Gonna Lose You

[rosstmcd]

There's a moment, in Peter Jackson's LOTR -- I think it might only be in the extended editions -- where Eowyn is leading the evacuation to Helm's Deep and Gimli is with her, and he's randomly BSing to her about female dwarves, and she giggles.

And I've always thought that just that one moment really highlighted, in the movie, the difference between Eowyn and Arwen in a way that the book doesn't. Eowyn is of course courageous and strong and high-hearted, but she's also human. She can laugh and be silly and have fun. Arwen is like two thousand years old, and noble, and tragic because she's chosen to give up immortality for love, and you cannot imagine her ever giggling.

Aragorn's whole life has been aimed toward winning Arwen. He's choosing nobility and tragedy and, when you get right down to it, a certain lack of humanity. Strider can make jokes; Aragorn King of Gondor not so much.

Imagine that. You're Aragorn. You're Isildur's heir. You inspire loyalty wherever you go. All who know you love you. Your people will follow you into the gates of hell. You're a deadly and valiant soldier, yet your hands also have magical healing powers. You save Middle Earth and become a great and beloved king.

You're own creator still says you're not good enough for Eowyn

[aprettyaveragestudent]

#2-What is Love? Baby don't hurt me

I'll be using this post to talk about love in two distinct forms; first, the love between the ring and its bearer, and second, the love that seems to mortalize creatures in The Lord of the Rings.

The love between the ring and bearer isn’t so much love as a perversion of the form. In the book, love is regarded and described as a pure and uplifting emotion. By this logic, the relationship between the ring and bearer is decidedly unlovely. Yet it still has elements of love, perhaps all the negative elements of love within it. The ring has an almost magnetic pull on the bearer or the one who wears it. I’ve hypothesized that this relationship between the ring and bearer also impacts the environment around the two, making it seem more hostile than it would have been otherwise. Of course, I will need more data to conclusively prove this, hopefully, a more careful reading of the books will provide more quotes or instances of the environment itself going out of its way to make Frodo unhappy or uncomfortable. Not only did it bend the environment it also affected Frodo’s mental and physical health. While these are not necessarily the primary elements of love, there are some elements of love which affect the relationship between the ring and the bearer. Namely, the overdependence, the toxicity of the affection, and an inability to look outside the relationship for happiness or comfort. While this love doesn't really manifest itself too much in Frodo (perhaps because he does not form a physical dependence on the ring), it does show up very clearly in Smeagol. Calling the ring "my precious" and clutching it close to his heart are clear indicators of the unhealthy emotions he harbours for the seemingly inanimate object.

The second form of love I am speaking about is the opposition to the first, it is the more classic "pure" and "uplifting" part of love. I will be speaking about different species relationships to the emotion, and how that affects their worldviews and perhaps even life spans.

Whenever speaking about fantastical lands and creatures love has always been viewed as a defining trait of human beings. While there's no specific reason for this trope to have existed I suspect it is because writers fear that any people reading fantasies will not be interested in reading stories about cool magical creatures that are much much better than human beings. While people enjoy that, they also need to feel special and included, hence humans too are given some special traits that are unique just to themselves. The ability to love perhaps becomes the easiest trait to give without lessening the fantasy creatures powers. Even in Lord Of The Rings, love is a defining trait of the human race. While other creatures such as dwarves and hobbits too possess the ability to love it manifests itself most clearly in humans. Interestingly, elves are the creatures who are the least likely to love(in our humanistic definition of it), they are also the ones with the longest life spans. Conversely, human beings have the shortest life spans and the largest ability to love.

It's not hard to see the relationship between life spans and love then, the one who loves lives the least and vice versa. This hypothesis is tested and proven true by Arwen, the elf. She falls in love with Aragorn, a human, and consequently loses her immortality and must live out her life as a human. Tolkien appears to be almost punishing the non human characters for loving, but is he? He seems to be speaking about the cost of immortality, and the consequences of not actually feeling, or loving. The elves are lofty, high and airy but their perfectness is what makes them unaspirational as characters. Once they display humanistic flaws such as hubris and love they become immediately more relatable.

Love in essence is what complicates and muddies a lot of stories and characters loves within the tale. Perhaps it is these complications that make the story so lovable in the first place?

[prettylittlecostumers]

Tolkien Week day 01: My Top Five Wishlist for Amazon’s LOTR Series.

I have written about it back in June, but it’s Tolkien Week so I just HAD to go back to it. There are no news yet. Amazon seems to be planning to film in NZ to keep a visual link with PJ’s oeuvre, and that’s all we know for now. But here’s what I would like to see, just in case they really go with the Young Aragorn idea. And just in case Amazon’s listening to my pining and sighing... After all, it is my favorite fandom, and I still wanna keep my hopes up that after all the talking is done we’ll have a good (and long) series to watch. Just in case you’re wondering, I’ve arranged my wishes chronologically and not according to what I want the most. But I’m a Faramir fan, so I guess you’ll get what I want the most. Here we go:

1 - Aragorn and Arwen fall in love.

Wouldn’t it be nice to follow all the comings and goings on that one? I’d love to see how Arwen telling Aragorn to grow up shaped him into the travel-hardened ranger that eventually became king. And into a man she could actually love, and leave her family and immortality behind for.

2 - Aragorn in Rohan:

Théoden remembered Aragorn even though he was a child at the time. Wouldn’t it be lovely to see that? They could give us some Rohan politics background with the evil times of Fengel King, Morwen and Thengel’s wedding in Gondor and her reception in court in Edoras. Their children. And they could easily develop into the near future with Théoden as an adult before he fell into Gríma’s spell, the doomed love of Éomund of Eastfold and Théodwyn of Rohan, their own children as young children and Théodred as a young man, and maybe, maybe... The Fords of the Isen?

3 - Aragorn as Thorongil:

This is a direct consequence of the one above. In his travels, Aragorn goes to Gondor, which is hinted in the Movie Trilogy.

I’d love to see that, and all that comes from that: a young and not mad yet Denethor, who like his son Faramir strives for his father’s favor. Ecthelion’s stewardship. Finduilas of Dol Amroth, who, in the appendices, seems to have been the one light in Denethor’s life. Her brother Imrahil of Dol Amroth as a young pirate on the Umbarian Campaign. Imrahil’s family. Boromir as a small child. Faramir as a baby in the end. I get all the feels just to imagine all this!

2 - Aragorn in Harad and Khand:

It would take us into unexplored territory, show the growth of Sauron and the circumstances in which it happened in these places, and it’s also a very good chance to show that not everyone in these places was evil or ill-intended or misguided. It adds variety and depth to Middle-Earth as a whole. There’s also the potential danger of a quasi-fascist major screw up in which everybody hates Gondor, so I don’t know if this is a dream or a proto-nightmare. It has potential to be both.

1 - The Hunt for Gollum and the Attack on Osgiliath on T.A. 3018:

These two events lie at the end of the line for a Young Aragorn timeline, as they both border the WOTR. Aragorn pursues across all of Middle-Earth - which is a good chance for all of us to catch a glimpse of “what’s changed” since he was a young man and passed through the first time around. Also, when Aragorn chases Gollum into Ithilien, Faramir would already be there, serving as a Ranger, or - most likely IMO - already as the captain whom his men would follow “under the wings of Shadow”. I wonder at the effects of an anonymous chance meeting in the wild, and their possible relation with “You called, I come, What does the king command?” in the Houses of Healing. It is said Faramir could read into hearts and minds just like his old man. So he would surely grasp much more than anything Aragorn would tell him.

Also, the attack on Osgiliath is related to Aragorn’s chase because after he loses Gollum to the orcs, Sauron gets all the info he needs out of Gollum and sends the Nine to the Shire. And they are only able to pass North after the attack, right after it if memory serves me, while the four survivors of the bridge were swimming for their lives in chainmail. And both happenings would give us all something I terribly wish to see: Faramir as he was in the books. A smart man of swift judgement, as good a captain as his brother, and most of all, fair and not in such need of fatherly approval to the point of throwing his convictions out the window for a pat in the head. The man who would stand up to his liege lord - and father - later on because he did the right thing, and was condemned to a suicide mission for it. The man who’s worthy of Éowyn’s affection, and Aragorn’s trust.

[justanothercinemaniac]

Epic Movie (Re)Watch #200 - The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Spoilers Below

Have I seen it before: Yes

Did I like it then: Yes.

Do I remember it: Yes.

Did I see it in theaters: No.

Format: Blu-ray

1) The prologue.

This first scene of the last film does a number of things well. For one, Sméagol suddenly becomes a much more sympathetic and tragic character. We see how happy this creature was before being corrupted by the evil of the ring; before becoming Gollum. And that’s the other thing this scene does well: we understand better than ever how evil the ring is. How quickly it can turn good people bad. This sets the stakes high for the final chapter of the trilogy. Originally meant for The Two Towers, its inclusion in this film works so much better I think. Also it’s worth noting that the transformation from practical Gollum makeup to CG is seamless and visceral.

2) I love how freaking angry Gimli gets upon running into Merry & Pippin alive (after searching so desperately for them in Two Towers) before being tempted by what they’re smoking.

3) It’s worth noting that I HAVE watched the extended editions of all three films and while I usually forget about the scenes added in those versions, Saruman’s death scene (which is cut in this film) is always one I miss. It is a nice note of finality for such a major character in the trilogy.

4) Much as this film really covers Frodo’s eventual corruption by the ring, Aragorn’s journey is also complete. Over the course of the trilogy we see him go from a loner who wants nothing to do with leadership into the king of men. This film is very much about Aragorn accepting that part of himself, becoming the leader he was always meant to be, and we see it in many little ways. He takes a moment for himself to respect those fallen before celebrating a victory, he imparts wisdom onto Gandalf, he earns the trust of Théoden, later honors his promise to the ghost soldiers even though he could’ve used them as a weapon, and leads his army into battle in an effort to give Frodo the time he needs. By the time the credits role Aragorn fully embraces his duty as king and that’s a wonderful transformation to watch.

5) Have I mentioned I low-key ship Sam and Frodo?

Frodo: “I need you on my side.”

Sam: “I’m always on your side, Mr. Frodo.”

6) The last film very much covered Merry’s maturity, becoming invested in the war (which guides his actions in this film as well). In Return of the King we get to see Pippin grow more as a person. We see him go from a someone who doesn’t think before he acts (like when he looks into the orb and risks alerting Sauron about Frodo) to someone with deep sorrow who takes responsibility for his actions (such as when he pledges his allegiance to the Stewart of Gondor because he feels responsible for Boromir’s death). It’s a nice subplot for the film.

7) Can I just say: Théoden can be a real idiot.

Théoden [about Gondor]: “Tell me: why should we ride to the aid of those who did not come to ours?”

Dude, you made SUCH a big deal about not asking for Gondor’s aid in the last movie when you were heavily advised to do just that. And now you’re getting pissy because they didn’t give you something you said you didn’t want?

8) While Sam and Frodo’s kinship is wicked strong, that’s not to undersell how deeply connected Merry and Pippin are. They’re great friends and the sadness of their goodbye as Gandalf takes Pippin to Gondor speaks to that.

9) Okay, can I just say something? There are only three named female characters in these films I can think of who have lines: Arwen, Galadriel, and Éowyn. They’re all awesome, they’re all great. They never EVER interact with each other and while we understand both Arwen and Galadriel are dangerous women it’s only Éowyn who gets to fight in the war. And I get the books were published in the 50s and everything but come on. Some changes to improve on female presence wouldn’t kill the movie.

10)

Arwen [about Aragorn]: “If I leave him now, I will regret it forever.”

And that’s literal, because elves are immortal. I just wanted to point that out.

11) John Noble as Denethor.

While there is initially a bit of sympathy for the stewart of Gondor because he’s mourning his son Boromir, wow is that lost quickly. I am rooting for this guy to die harder than I am any other character in this series because he is such a raging asshole. I think he’s supposed to be and John Noble plays him in a very interesting way. Much like Imelda Staunton was great at making us hate Doloris Umbridge in Harry Potter, John Noble is great at making Denethor a selfish, arrogant, cruel bastard who I just want to punch in his fucking permanent scowl of a face. HE FUCKING ADMITS THAT HE WISHES FARAMIR WERE DEAD INSTEAD OF BOROMIR! I just…yeah, I’m glad when this jackass dies.

12) The Dead City always reminded me a little of the Emerald City from The Wizard of Oz. Or is that just me?

13) I apologize for this in advance.

Frodo [when he feels the Witch King near, who stabbed him in Fellowship]: “I can feel his blade.”

(GIF source unknown [if this is your GIF please let me know].)

14) At first I questioned the need to include Faramir’s skirmish with the orcs, but for one thing it shows the continued darkness which spreads across Middle Earth as well as the scale of this war. Not to mention it feeds directly into a conflict between Faramir and his jackass dad.

15) I love Éowyn, which I said as much in the last recap. But in this film she is just so freaking ready to fight for those she loves, to stand up against evil even though the sexism of Middle Earth tries to keep her off the battlefield. But she doesn’t and we get the best moment in the whole trilogy. More on that later.

16) When I was younger I never really understood why Frodo believes Sam actually stole the bread, why he sends Sam away. But now I get just how great a manipulator Gollum is and how dark the ring can be on Frodo’s soul. Gollum knows EXACTLY what the ring is doing to him, the little things it whispers to him, the greed and mistrust which is taking him. He knows because he spent (I think) five hundred years under that very same influence. He knows what Frodo is going through better than anyone which he manipulates to his advantage.

17) Sean Astin just freaking shines with his breakdown after Frodo sends him away breaks up with him (you know, after refusing to give Sam a ring). He’s come so far, sacrificing his very life, to make sure Mr. Frodo stays safe and trying to make sure the ring doesn’t take him. And he’s ALWAYS on Frodo’s side, he always trusts Frodo. But Frodo can’t do the same thing for Sam. In fact, he does the complete opposite and distrusts him so deeply he tries to get rid of him. And it’s based on NOTHING, just the manipulations of a fiend and the darkness of the ring. Astin i just so great and conveying how heavy this is on Sam, I love it.

18) Ah, the song.

First of all, Billy Boyd’s vocals are just absolutely amazing here. They infuse the song with such grand heartache which helps it set the tone for Faramir’s attack on the orc troops. This isn’t a grand action scene, this isn’t a heroic triumph, this is a heartbreaking suicide mission made because of a son wanting to earn the love of his soulless father. And that’s why the song works as well as it does. It sets a beautiful tone.

19) Honestly, a few of these notes are just going to be me acknowledging awesome Éowyn is.

Éowyn [after some troops laugh at Merry for wanting to fight]: “Why can he not fight for those he loves?”

20) The scene where Aragorn takes the sword from Elrond is a great moment. The music, Aragorn’s demeanor, the subtleties of the cinematography, the visual of Aragorn taking the sword, it all just makes it feel like a real hero’s moment.

21) While the extended edition of this film may have some more Legolas & Gimli moments (there’s this wonderful drinking competition they get into), the bromance of the entire trio is still something I love.

Gimli [after Aragorn tries going into the dead mountain alone]: “You might as well accept it: we’re going with you, laddie.”

22) Merry is told he can’t go into battle by Théoden, that no one will carry him on their horse. Meanwhile Éowyn - who was basically told to stay at home and look after things while the men fight - says, “Screw that,” and takes Merry into battle herself. I LOVE ÉOWYN!

23) The scene with the ghosts and the dead mountain is truly eerie. Peter Jackson’s roots as a horror director really shine through in this wonderfully creepy scene and place. It’s just chilling.

24) In the long running list of why Denethor is a piece of shit: he is so freaking eager for Faramir to be dead and to have some man pain he doesn’t even check his pulse! Then he bitches about not getting help from Rohan which HE DIDN’T EVEN WANT and then gives up. Thank god for Gandalf.

25) The initial battle of Gondor has a nice sense of scale and stakes to it, especially when we see it through the eyes of Pippin. There’s this constant sense of dread and hardship which builds tension nicely.

26) I’m not talking about the spider scene because I always hide behind my hands when that scene is going on. I fucking hate spiders, guys. I hate them. It’s a miracle I didn’t just straight up fast forward past all the spider stuff. AND IT JUST KEEPS COMING BACK! You think the spider is gone but then no, it comes back for one last attack! ENOUGH WITH THE SPIDER ALREADY!

27) Gollum is totally done with the manipulation, the tricks, all of it. As soon as Frodo reveals his intention is to destroy the ring, he loses it and just is going to solve his problem with brute force. This doesn’t really work for him though.

28) Awww, Sam comes back to rescue his boyfriend only to think he’s dead.

Sam: “Don’t leave me here alone. Don’t go where I can’t follow.”

29) A coincidence to get the character in trouble helps move the plot along. Such as when the orcs show up RIGHT AFTER Frodo gets paralyzed so they can easily capture him.

30) Through a strong sense of visuals there is a nice feeling of hope when Rohan shows up to participate in the battle of Gondor. The build up to that and the fact we see it via Merry and Éowyn works REALLY well because they - like the audience - are both new to this.

31) I always liked that Gandalf is willing to leave the main battle to save Faramir, because isn’t that what this is all about? Saving as much life as we can.

32) There are few film deaths which are quite as satisfying to me as Denethor’s death. I won’t include it hear but those who have seen the movie know exactly what happens. Know if you seek it out it does involve fire (so if that triggers you maybe best to stay away).

33) Once the freaking elephants show up to battle you KNOW this shit is epic. One thing this film does best out of all three is its battle sequences are amazing. They may be long, but they are choreographed interestingly and use a strong sense of action = reaction to them. They’re epic and totally amazing.

34) I do have a bit of a fear of death, so Gandalf’s words to Merry always bring me calm.

Gandalf [after Merry says he can’t believe it’s going to end like this]: “End? No, the journey doesn’t end here. Death is just another path we must all take.”

35) THE BEST FREAKING MOMENT IN THE ENTIRE FREAKING TRILOGY! If you only watch one moment from The Lord of the Rings, make sure you watch this one. This is all you need to see. This is beautiful and I love it and it’s awesome. Watch it! Watch it now!

FUCKING ÉOWYN VERSUS THE FUCKING WITCH KING! YES! You can see she’s TOTALLY scared but that doesn’t matter at all. She works through the fear, she fights this mythical creature who is supposedly un-killable AND SHE FUCKING KILLS HIM! It’s either him or her uncle and damn it’s sure as hell not going to be her uncle! It is glorious. I cheer every time. I love it. Best moment in the trilogy. No contest. Done.

36) There is this tone shift in the battle of Gondor once Legolas and Gimli start their contest.

Gimli: “There’s plenty [of the enemy] for the both of us, may the best dwarf win.”

They bring out an intense amount of fun to the battle which just has you cheering them on. Cheering on the victory! I mean, LEGOLAS TAKES DOWN A FREAKING ELEPHANT!

Gimli: “THAT STILL COUNTS AS ONE!”

I love it.

37) Again, I apologize for this in advance.

Orc [about to kill Frodo]: “I’m going to stick you like a stuffed pig.”

Sam [killing the orc]: “Not if I stick you first.”

(GIF source unknown [if this is your GIF please let me know].)

38) It is always important that characters not be passive. Them making a choice is interesting. So even when Frodo is at a point where he can easily STOP carrying the ring and let Sam carry it, but he CHOSES not to, that’s interesting. It speaks to his character.

Frodo: “You must understand: the ring is my burden.”

39) This is one of my favorite things to hit the internet in 2012. It’s so random and weird I love it.

40) The moment when Aragorn really becomes the king of men is when he rallies his troops to fight against Sauron. He takes his role as leader seriously and he’s damn good at it.

Aragorn: “I see in your eyes the same fear which would take the heart in me!”

He relates to them, he lets them know he’s afraid, but his bravery inspires bravery in others. That’s what a good leader does. They speak of hope and unity against hatred, they don’t encourage it. They don’t divide people, they bring them together.

41) Have I mentioned I love Legolas and Gimli’s bromance?

Gimli: “Who thought I’d die fighting side by side with an elf?”

Legolas: “How about side by side with a friend?”

Gimli: “Aye. I can do that.”

42) Frodo is literally pushed past his physical limits, unable to climb any further up Mount Doom to destroy the ring. But he HAS to. That’s high stakes. Forgoing physical needs for the goal is the highest stakes imaginable. And also: HELL YEAH, SAMWISE GAMGEE!

Sam: “I can’t carry it for you, but I can carry you!”

43) Can I just say: I will never truly wrap my mind around the super convenient giant eagles which show up at the last minute. Like, maybe there’s an explanation for this in the books, but wouldn’t the eagles have helped out A LOT MORE before this final battle? I mean really. What’s with this Deus Ex Machina stuff?

44) The scene where Frodo decides to keep the ring visually matches the one where Isildur did the same thing in Fellowship, meaning the seeds for this were planted in the trilogy from film one. It’s smart planning and helps make the choice all the stronger. We’ve seen the consequences of this action once, but again? Oh man, that could be disastrous.

45) You can really see the influence the ring had on Frodo when this is the first thing he says after it’s destroyed.

Frodo: “I can see the shire.”

Frodo talked about how he couldn’t remember it before, while he was carrying the ring. But now it’s gone and he can. I love that.

46) One of my favorite moments in the series is when Frodo wakes up in Rivendale with Gandalf standing at his bead. Remember, Frodo thinks Gandalf is DEAD from the first film. So not only is there the joy at his own survival but that of his friend too. And you can see it on Elijah Wood’s face.

47) This film has A LOT of endings. Like, it takes 20 minutes to end. But I like each and every one. Firstly, this massive respect the hobbits are paid.

Aragorn [king of men, to the hobbits]: “My friends. You bow to no one.”

[Aragorn bows, then so does literally EVERYONE else]

48) The Shire still brings about the same sense of peace it did in Fellowship. You know you’re really out of danger when you are in that place. The tension defuses and it feels like…home. It’s worth noting that the hobbits at first have nothing to talk about while at the bar. They just sit there in silence because…what is there to say?

49) The final goodbye.

I may not be the best to pick up on subtext, but even I get that this boat into the West is meant to represent the afterlife. That Bilbo, Gandalf, and Frodo are all going into the afterlife (even though I always forget that Gandalf leaves). This is honestly not only the most fitting ending to the story, but for Frodo’s character as a whole. There’s no way Frodo could’ve just gone home after all that evil. He couldn’t have just returned to normalcy. He’s changed too much, so he has to move on. But just because Frodo’s gone, doesn’t mean life moves on. And I think that’s one of the greatest messages this film has: even in the face of great loss, life moves on. And there is always ALWAYS hope.

50) And I think instead of analyzing the song “Into the West” I’ll just leave you all with a link to listen to it because it’s a wonderful piece.

The Return of the King is everything fans loved about the first two Lord of the Rings films dialed up all the way. The stakes are at their highest, the battles are at their most epic, the performances are incredible, and the characters finally reach the end of the journey they started at the beginning of this film. Winning Best Picture at the Oscars the year it was nominated, this film definitely deserves it and is worth the watch (even if it is a long watch).

[sophispunk]

Destiel and Aragorn x Arwen

So I was watching Lord of the Rings lately and I couldn’t help but think about how much the relationship between Aragorn x Arwen and between Dean x Castiel is alike.   I mean, let me start with the similarities between Arwen and Cas first. Hell just look at their eye color.

Anyways, that’s not the point, let’s get started: Both, Cas and Arwen, are immortal. Castiel is an angel of the Lord, his father high above, almost like a king for some people. Then there is Arwen. An Elf, an actual princess, the daughter of the Lord of Rivendell, eminent just like Cas. Both have been quite alone in their long past and both never happen to experience love until they met their ones. (Unecsessarly to say that I am talking about Aragorn and Dean here.) However, then there is the fact that both happen to be human at some point. Arwen decided to choose humanity to be together with Aragorn. Arwen: “I would rather share one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone.” It was a hard desicion for her to make, but she chose Aragorn over a fulfilled and immortal life, even if that would mean her death. Arwen: “This was my choice, Ada, whether by your will or not, there is no ship now that can bear me hence.” So you see, to her it’s more important to be with Argorn than anything else. Of course at the beginning she was quite unsure about what to do. She didn’t know rather Aragorn is going to live and going to become the king of Gondor or not. But important is that she never lost hope. Elrond: “He [Aragorn] is not coming back. Why do you linger here when there is no hope? Arwen: “There is still hope.”

Until she saw her future, their future. Together.

Now you would argue with the fact that Castiel didn’t choose to be human and a mortal life and that is true, BUT remember why he became human! Why the angels were falling! I mean of course it was Metatrons work but think further back. Also don’t forget that Cas would choose Dean over and over again. “You have to choose, Castiel. Us. Or them.”  And he chose Dean. “You gave us order, Castiel, and we gave you our trust. Don’t lose it over one man.” and Cas’ answer was: “No. I can’t.”

Who knows what would have happend if he didn’t choose Dean. Maybe everything would have been better for him, we don’t know, but he didn’t care about that at all, because all he cares about is Dean and that’s the same with Arwen and Aragorn. Just think about it! If Castiel would have to choose between an immortal life and being together with Dean for the rest of his life, wouldn’t he choose Dean and with that mortality as well? Yes! I mean, come on, it’s quite obvious. So infact both Arwen and Castiel would sacrifice everything, just to be with the ones they love and care about the most. Both of them would do everything to make sure they will be fine. Like for example with appearing in their dreams. Aragorn: “I am asleep. This is a dream.”  Arwen: “Then it is a good dream.”

Dean: “I’m dreaming, aren’t I?”

or just by their presence and comforting words.

Now to my last point. Lets be honest both are hella sassy. Castiel:“You should show me some respect. I dragged you out of hell, I can throw you back in.”

Arwen:“What’s that? A Ranger caught off his guard?”

Like I said: Think about it, it’s quite obvious.

So now let me start with the similarities between Dean and Aragorn.

First of all is to say that both of their parents died “quite early”. Of course Dean was around 27, when his father died to safe him, but he was only four years old when he saw his mother burning on the ceiling. After that Dean started following his fathers orders, continued the family business, took and still takes care of his little brother.

“’Cause you’re following Dad’s orders like a good little solider? Because you always do what he says without question? Are you that desperate for his approval?!”

He grew up very fast, too fast actually.

We don’t know much about Aragorns parents, just that his father served as Chieftain of the Dúnedain and that Aragorn was two years old, when his father got shot between his eyes, while he was hunting orcs and that his mother died when he was 74 years old. However Aragorn didn’t see his mother often, after he left Imladris with the age of twenty, to fulfill his mothers wishes to become a Ranger and to wander in the wild. So we can see both did what their mother (in Aragorns case) or father (in Deans case) wanted them to do. Following their orders and wishes. But still we know that Aragorn had a better relationship to his mother than Dean had to his father, though. Also Aragorn kind of grew up very fast and learned how to survive alone in the wild. Next point is their past. Both Dean and Aragorn are quite afraid of their past or rather are having a kind of dark past. Well, for Dean at least it is hard enough remembering what happened to his mother and thinking back to all these years of hunting with his father and brother to find the thing which killed Mary and which also destroyed his childhood. Also looking at new seasons of Supernatural he is afraid of what he became. I mean like he was in hell, got the Mark of Cain then the Demon accident. Of course it’s not his fault but still all these things are hunting him.

He is ashamed of what he became and about letting that happen and as we know Dean he gives himself the fault for everything bad that happened.

Aragorn, in that case, is more ashamed about his relatives/ancestors, because they were seeking for power over whole middle earth and all that just beacuse of  this one ring. “The Ring passed to Isildur, who had this one chance to destroy evil forever. But the hearts of Men are easily corrupted. And the Ring of Power has a will of its own. It betrayed Isildur to his death.” He is afraid of becoming just like them. Arwen: “Why do you fear the past? You are Isildur’s heir, not Isildur himself. You are not bound to his fate. Aragorn: “The same blood flows in my veins. The same weakness.

Aslo Dean is kind of scared about becoming something he don’t want to be. Both are trying to hide the pain inside of them. Both are kind of broken, but still want to seem strong from outside. They love and care about everyone around them more than they love and care about themselves. Aragorn:"I give hope to men and keep non for myself.”

and

Dean:“ I know how you look into the mirrow and hate what you see!”

But despite that fact they keep on fighting for what’s right, because that’s what they are good at. “I can see inside you, Dean! I can see how broken you are, how defeated; you can’t win and you know it, but you just keep fighting, just keep going through the motions. (…)”

If not saving themselves from their past or from their future, then at least saving as many people as they possibly can and that for the greater good. But for exactly that, Dean as well as Aragorn, have got the ones they love the most by their sides. Cas loves Dean with all his flaws, no matter how broken Dean is inside, no matter what happend to him, even when he turned dark, Cas was there, always came when he called, always did everything Dean asked for. He is showing Dean how wonderful he is, that he is loved and that he is a beautiful person inside and out and Dean appreciates that more than even Castiel can imagine.

That’s the same with Aragorn and Arwen. Arwen stands by his side, always, she is showing him how important he is to her and knowing that he will not make the same mistake his ancestors did years ago, that he can be what he was meant to be and not be afraid of it. She gives him hope and strength. Arwen: “Your time will come. You will face the same evil, and you will defeat it.”

And not to forget both are hella badass.

Castiel and Arwen are the best that could ever happen to Dean and Aragorn and they both are showing them that there is nothing to be afraid of as long as they have someone by their side, who loves them for exactly what they are and that is important. That is what they need in life. No matter how dark eveything can get, together they can defeat it.

A tragic love story between an immortal and a mortal. That’s what I signed up for!