#elvenqueen maereth

[sotwk]

who is an underappreciated/little talked about oc of yours that you would like to get more attention? (And feel free to talk about them!)

What a lovely question, thank you Anon! <3

I am lucky enough to have such supportive friends that my OCs are reasonably well-supported. If some of them don't get enough attention, it's because I'm the one who doesn't talk/write about them enough!

I would say that it is my version of Thranduil's wife and mother to Legolas and his brothers, Elvenqueen Maereth, whom I hope more of my readers come to know and love as I do. She is to me what Lúthien, Varda Elentári, or Galadriel were to Professor Tolkien: my vision of a perfect woman. But more than "perfect", someone wholly good and kind, full of love, and worthy of admiration. For that reason, I think a part of me will always worry that readers would criticize her as a "Mary Sue" (ugh that word), which holds me back from singing her praises as much as I would wish to.

Furthermore, every Thranduil or Legolas fic writer has their own version or ideas of the Elvenqueen, so I can understand why some readers would rather keep to their preferred visions. Therefore Maereth remains my extra-personal, special blorbo OC. I am deeply appreciative of anyone who shows interest in her.

I collected headcanons specific to her here: Maereth Headcanons.

If I could recommend one fic that (so far) best demonstrates her best qualities, it would be "The Broken Shield", which is surprisingly a Thorin-centric fic! But this story highlights key aspects of her character that I love best:

How she was a lifelong ally and friend to the Dwarven race, particularly the Line of Durin.

How she continued to work and fight against evil till the end, even after centuries of loss and suffering and heartbreak (sons dying, kingdom collapsing, etc.).

How she took an active role in ruling the kingdom alongside her husband, even in making critical decisions.

How deeply Thranduil loved her, so much that he could never replace her with another.

Thank you again for the Ask, Anon! I almost never talk about Maereth unless encouraged, so I appreciate this chance. :)

SotWK Fancast: Jennifer Connelly as Elvenqueen Maereth

[sotwk]

Ahhh this such an honor!!! 😍 it's hard to describe the gratitude you feel when someone says wonderful things about your OC (esp one you feel insecure about). Every writer definitely knows that. You are such a talented writer in so many fandoms, so this is an even higher compliment, @two-white-butterflies!

Thank you for being such a wonderful friend. ❤️ you have always had such kind things to say about Maereth and my AU, and I'm not exaggerating when i say you are one of my motivators for continuing my work on Thranduil's family.

I'm so happy you zeroed in on Maereth's kindness and loving nature as your reasons for liking her. I worry that people hate that quality because it makes the character seem "Mary Sue Perfect". But if Elrond or Cìrdan can be kind and loving and people love their characters, should we hate an OC for being the same? (Btw Maereth is Cìrdan's granddaughter and spent her childhood with him, so she gets it from somewhere.)

Anyway, I apologize the little insecure rant. 😅 JUST. THANK YOU. ❤️❤️❤️ this means so much to me.

Choose five of your favorite ocs (be it yours or another) and pass it on to 5 different people! Spread oc love

I haven't read a lot of fics with OCs lately, but here are my (few) favorite ones. (some of these are not OCS)

Queen Maereth from @sotwk. I love how motherly and feminine Maereth is. She is Thranduil's perfect match. I reread all the fics/headcanons about Thranduil and Maereth every month 🥺 I love all their sons. I could finish this post by naming all their children. If ya'll love LOTR/TH/ROP please check out sotwk's blog because it is the epitome of Tolkien loving.

Princess Saera Targaryen from coaxed you into paradise. This is a shameless self-plug in. I wrote her during a time where I was still honing my fanfic-writing powers. She isn't the best flawless OC, but she's the one closest to my heart ❤️ I'm a sucker for kind and feminine OCs, so I made her out to be everything that her sister isn't. Whereas Rhaenyra had to put on a strong front as the heir apparent, Saera had the freedom to be kind and flawed.

Reader in @youvebeenlivingfictional 's Bad Faith (x Harvey Specter). This is the best Harvey Specter fanfic in the ecosystem. You can insert yourself shamelessly in the reader part, as all the characters seem to act their character. There was an amazing characterization of Harvey, Mike and Jessica. The words that the author used, I can imagine being uttered in Suits. I LOVE THIS FANFIC SO MUCH!! 10/10

Reader in @edensrose 's When Darkness Reigns (x Thranduil, x Mairon love triangle). This is also one of my favorite fanfics. Constantly lives in my head rent free. I love how sassy Mairon is, but I also enjoy the characterization of Thranduil as he is corrupted by darkness to protect his people. Really dances will with Tolkien's motif: goodness cannot be determined by the destination, but the means to get there.

Theradis in @mismaeve 's Long Live The Queen (x Thranduil). Yes, I'm obsessed with Thranduil. I love the theme of corruption portrayed in this fic. Reminds me of that one episode in Encantadia where Mine-a was brought back to life, corrupted by evil, and forced to fight against the people that she loves. I love that even when fighting against each other, they can't ignore the pulse of love.

That's all! Thank you anon.

[sotwk]

//Do you have any Lindir hcs? •w•

Hello my Lindir-loving friend!

I still have to get around to making an official, full-blown "character sheet/profile" for Lindir as he exists in the SotWK AU, but in the meantime, here is a quick summary of what I do have in my notes regarding his origins and early life in Lórinand, before he came to Lord Elrond's service as a steward in Imladris:

Lindir

Lindir was born in Second Age 1243 in Lórinand. His father was a Sinda who had migrated across the mountains with Amdir's company. His mother was a native Silvan.

He had an older sister named Calanien, who was nearly his polar opposite in personality; the siblings were very close, regardless.

His father was a tutor to Prince Amroth who became a high-ranking steward in King Amdir's hold. Lindir's mother was an herbalist who was brought by her husband to the King's household to become a royal healer.

Lindir began service in King Amdir's household when he was relatively young, holding various positions ranging from butler, to scribe, to valet. He became known for his cleverness, problem-solving skills, and amiable nature.

Lindir's talent for singing remained private during his youth in Lórinand. Despite his name, he was not publicly known as a singer until he came to Imladris.

Lindir became well-acquainted with both Lady Galadriel and Lady Celebrían during their stay at Lórinand around SA 1350.

At about this time, he also met Lady Maereth (the future Elvenqueen of Eryn Galen), a visiting Noldo from Eregion. They eventually grew into lifelong friends.

Maereth and Lindir's relationship, although entirely platonic from the start, was so lovely and pure to behold that it roused the irritation and jealousy of one Prince Thranduil, who for years mistakenly viewed Lindir as a rival for Maereth's affections.

Centuries later, Lindir, driven by his friendship with Celebrian and Maereth and his deep admiration for Elrond, came to live in Imladris where it didn't take long for him to become one of the most trusted stewards of the Last Homely House.

Bonus SotWK exclusive: I do have an OC I plan to introduce as a love interest for Lindir! I have already introduced her in one of my recent fics. She is a trusted member of Thrandul's household staff and almost like Eryn Galen's "Lindir equivalent".

Thank you for this great Ask! <3 As I said, I hope to write a more thorough "fact sheet" for Lindir soon, AND write at least one of the several fic ideas I have for him. :)

[sotwk]

To the honorable Elvenking and Elvenqueen (whoever would like to reply),

My boyfriend of 3 years and I broke up recently, and while we still both want to be friends, I find myself resentful and unwilling to see him. Am I wrong for that? Should I attempt to force through my resentment?

Respectfully yours,

Anonymous

I hên nín*,

Three turns around the sun is a long time to place your heart in another’s keeping. It would therefore be a painful thing to sever such a bond, whether the choice came from you willingly or not. I am sorry for any sorrow you may be feeling, and I pray you afford yourself extra kindness and consideration.

In all partnerships, one half will never feel exactly the same as the other. It is not wrong or abnormal to feel exactly as you have described. Moving a relationship from a place of high intimacy back to a normal friendship places a great strain on your mind and heart. 

While your desire to remain friends is admirable and not impossible to achieve, this is a challenge that I would advise you not to take on while in recovery. Pushing yourself to engage with your former love before you are truly ready may only cause you to act with bitterness, and I do not believe you wish that for him.

Long ago, when the King and I came to an impasse in our courtship and were forced to part ways, I could not in my grief bear even the sight of him. Thranduil felt differently and could scarcely let me leave, but he did so for my sake. Many years later, after we had the time and space to grow and better ourselves, we reunited as friends, and discovered that the separation had prepared us as individuals to become one.

Whatever the future holds for you, dear one, right now you must focus on your own well-being. Take comfort, for nothing ever ails the heart that time cannot heal. Do not deprive yourself of this important medicine by forcing wellness. Take as many days as you need, and decide on a path once pain will no longer be an influence. A true friend would respect this need. 

His Grace sends you his regards and hopes, as I do, that you find peace and return to good spirits very soon. 

Cuio vae**, 

Maereth

Elvish: *My child / **Be/live well

This "Dear Elvenking/Elvenqueen" game is part of SotWK's Summer Campfire Sleepover 2024. (Requests accepted only on July 11-15, 2024.)

ANONS ARE ACCEPTED for this game ONLY.

How to Participate: Need advice or a chance to vent over a problem? Send a quick letter to King Thranduil and/or Queen Maereth, and one of them will respond with some loving parental wisdom!

[sotwk]

1st Day of Yule: “A Partridge in a Pear Tree”

Crown Prince Thranduil & Princess Maereth

Second Age 3430 

Bar Lasgalen, Palace of the Crown Prince

In all his three and a half thousand years of existence, Thranduil was certain he had never before held anything so precious, so desperately in need of his protection, even while the tiny fist that clutched his forefinger already boasted of a strength that made his heart swell with wonder and pride. 

He tugged the swaddling clothes up higher to sufficiently cover the newborn’s head, before stepping out into the balcony and the cold winter's night. He held the babe aloft for a moment, so that the legion of stars might meet and kiss his face with their light before fading into the dawn. 

But something else, something less expected, greeted them in the morning twilight. From far off, unseen voices carried faintly across the sprawling, snow-covered palace grounds, singing in chorus a sweet hymn so old, as ancient as Eryn Galen’s trees, that even he could not understand all the words of the Nandorin blessing.

“Our people welcome you, ion nin.” Thranduil chuckled at the gurgle he received in response. Such keen curiosity shone in those wandering little eyes, that already sought to take in the wide world he had just entered!

Tonight they were given privacy and peace. Tomorrow, well-wishers will descend upon Bar Lasgalen and the great feasting will start. King Oropher had already declared and made arrangements for a kingdom-wide celebration in honor of his new grandchild. The heir to his heir, the future of his house, the scion of his line. It pleased Thranduil that his father had finally set aside his grievances concerning lineage and did not let it mar his excitement over the newborn prince. 

Yet a persistent cloud cast a shadow of unease over Thranduil's boundless joy. His knowledge of the Darkness stirring in the lands beyond their realm weighed on him, more heavily now that he carried a priceless treasure in his arms. The enemy threats they thought they could dismiss as distant and outside of their concerns, suddenly felt too close and too real to him, too unsafe to ignore and leave unquelled.

As father and son retreated back into the warmth of the royal chambers, Thranduil sensed his wife stirring behind the sheer curtains of their canopied bed, waking from her much-needed rest. 

“Can I bring you anything, Endanya? Are you hungry? Shall I send for food?” He did not doubt his wife’s great strength, but she had yet to properly eat after her long labor, and in the days leading up to the birth she would consume only the golden pears she craved, a rare fruit that grew in the valley of Imladris where she had previously lived. Elrond himself had sent baskets of it across the mountain to Eryn Galen, making time for this gesture of care even in the midst of a rising crisis. However well-intentioned, this kindness added to Thranduil's burden of obligation to their old friend.

“No, my love.” Maereth smiled and reached out with a hand that Thranduil immediately took inside his own. “I have everything I need right here.”

“I never imagined I could love anyone anywhere close to how much I love you,” Thranduil shifted his gaze from her lovely face to that of the infant that had now fallen back asleep, content in the curve of his arm. “But this one has firmly taken his place second in line.”

He knelt at his Queen's bedside to bring their son closer to her. Maereth brushed her hand lightly over the baby's head of fine hair, silver as the starlight, just like his. 

“I will do everything in my power to protect you both,” the prince said suddenly. “To the last breath in my body, I will do what I must. I will not let any danger or evil come near either of you.”

He knew she understood his meaning, and that she believed him; she always did. But she squeezed his hand and leaned over to kiss his forehead. 

“Leave those vows for the morrow, Melmenya,” she whispered. “For now, let us keep our thoughts on the gift we have been given. On Mirion.”

“Our Mirion,” Thranduil agreed, carefully returning the sleeping child to his mother's bosom. “Finally, a jewel I could agree is worth marching to war for.”

Yuletide Series MASTERLIST

Yule Event Tag List: @a-world-of-whimsy-5 @achromaticerebus @aduialel @asianbutnotjapanese @auttumnsayshi @blueberryrock @conversacomsmaug @elan-ho-detto-elan-15 @entishramblings @freshalmondpandadonut @fizzyxcustard @friendofthefellowshipsnerdblog @glassgulls @heilith @heranintomyknife23times @ladyweaslette @laneynoir @lathalea @lemonivall @LiliDurin @quickslvxrr @ratsys @spacecluster @scyllas-revenge @stormchaser819 @talkdifferently6 @tamryniel @tamurilofrivendell @acornsandoaktrees @warriormirkwood @emmanuellececchi

[sotwk]

I love this movie so much, and Jennifer Connelly is sooooo beautiful!!! <3

A Beautiful Mind (2001)

[sotwk]

I know you’ve said that you’ve got a backlog of these kinds of things and I don’t want to add to your workload, so feel free to ignore this one if you want, but…

In revisiting one of your Thranduilion works on AO3, I somehow just noticed for the first time in an end note that Arvellas has facial hair — a mustache or beard depending on the time. 🤯 And of course I find that fascinating, given the otherwise pretty consistent theme of beardless elves in Tolkien (except for Círdan), so I was wondering if there is more you’ve said somewhere about how that came to be for Arvellas and what it says about him that he’s so distinct this way? (If I’ve missed the explanation for this elsewhere, please know that I’m sorry and my brain is a sieve so I often need people to tell me things more than once for them to sink in 😂)

*SQUEE* I LOVE getting questions like this! Thank you @from-the-coffee-shop-in-edoras for taking the time to ask about that detail you noticed! I do know of your fondness for Círdan, so I should have guessed you'd pick up on that. :)

There's quite a simple answer to your question, really.

The Thranduilion Princes descend from both Círdan and Mahtan through their mother's side. Both these Elves famously had beards, with Mahtan growing his beard during his Second Cycle of life.

Here's a quick genealogy rundown for Elvenqueen Maereth, wife of Elvenking Thranduil and mother of his five sons:

Maereth's father is Eärondir (oc), the only child of Círdan and his wife, Eäriel (oc), a granddaughter of Olwe.

Maereth's mother is Laurinwen (oc), the daughter of Maglor and his wife, Velcálë (oc). Through his mother Nerdanel, Maglor is the grandson of Mahtan the Aulendur.

Therefore, the sons of Thranduil and Maereth are both the great-grandsons of Círdan and the great-great-great-grandsons of Mahtan.

I have a thousand headcanons about these ancestors, their stories, and the implications of such a bloodline on the characteristics and skills of the Thranduilions! My personal favorite is, how did Legolas know how to build a ship fit for sailing to the Blessed Realm? It's in his blood!

But let's focus on your question about facial hair!

SotWK Fancast: Rupert Friend as Prince Arvellas Thranduilion

Arvellas is the only one among the five Thrandullions with the ability to grow facial hair. He never grows a full, luxurious beard, though. It's mostly mustache and actually looks very baby compared to Círdan's (lol).

Arvellas grows his beard very early on in his life, which may imply he gets it more from Mahtan's genes.

While my headcanon would imply a rare genetic component in an Elf's ability to grow beards, I also subscribe to the fanon theory that beards are achieved by Elves in possession of exceptional skill and wisdom.

Arvellas, more than any of his brothers, indeed did inherit both the creative genius of Fëanor and the deep wisdom of Cirdan, and these qualities awakened the "beard of wisdom" gene in him.

Want to learn more about Arvellas? Arvellas Headcanon Masterlist

Bonus related headcanon and OC that you didn't ask for because I can't help myself:

Olondir, the Thranduilions' cousin and Master Craftsman of Eryn Galen. The son of Maereth's late brother, Calinondo, Olondir is the last heir of the craft of Celebrimbor (remember that Maereth's family is related to Celebrimbor as well). Olondir lives quietly in Eryn Galen and is responsible for the upgrades in the Woodland Realm's armour and defenses after the War of the Last Alliance. He too is a genius in his craft, has the same line of descent as the Thranduilions, and thus can grow a beard in his Second Cycle. Unlike Arvellas, who is more conservative and less consistent about his facial hair, Olondir is always rocking a full beard in honor of his heritage.

SotWK Fancast: Jake Gyllenhaal as Olondir

USEFUL LINKS:

Introduction to SotWK

Main Headcanon Masterlist

[sotwk]

4th Day of Yule: “Four Calling Birds”

Prince Arvellas Thranduilion x Reader

Third Age 247

Men-i-Naugrim, Eryn Galen

At first, the cacophony of merry calling, booming laughter, pounding hooves, and exploding snowbanks unsettled you. You had served in the House of Thranduil all your life, just as your parents had, and you frequently saw the king's sons around the palace. You thought you knew those princes well--or at least as well as a scribe-in-residence would reasonably be expected to know the royals. This morning however, you realized you had been given a unique opportunity to see the princes in a different light, released from the confines of court protocol and formalities. 

Who would have thought those gentle-mannered, refined lords could be so… so… wild out in the…wild? 

“No no no!!! I said I was not ready! That was foul play!” Young Prince Gelir sputtered, shaking off the mound of snow that had been dumped over his head by the shovel-sized hands of Prince Turhir. He clutched the silver mane of his horse to maintain his position on its saddleless back, while pawing furiously at his wet face. “You sneak! You rotten--”

You diverted your eyes, which had gone wide at the outburst of coarse verbiage from the prince’s mouth. Most of the cursing was drowned out by the taunting howls and cackles of Princes Mirion and Turhir, which were even more shocking sounds coming from the noble elder sons of King Thranduil. Noro! Noro! The deep voices shouted, and in thundering gallops all three riders vanished yet again behind the trees further down the Forest Road. 

“What does that word mean?”

You turned to the littlest of the Thrandilions, Legolas, where he squirmed in his seat on the sleigh between you and Prince Arvellas. Thankfully, his brother, who had remained silent for most of the ride so far, spoke up to answer. 

“Nothing you need to learn or utter for a while yet.” Arvellas shook his head and smiled. “In fact, I would advise you to avoid repeating any new words you hear coming out of Gelir’s mouth--especially when he is yelling them.”

Legolas scrunched up his nose and nodded. “All right.” The elfling leapt back up on his feet, despite being asked to sit down only a few minutes ago. You and Arvellas exchanged glances, and he raised his shoulders in a resigned shrug. It was probably too much to expect of a five-year-old to sit still, anyway. 

Legolas had already pouted plenty over the fact that he had to ride in the sleigh instead of being allowed a steed of his own. You sympathized with his frustration at first-- until you witnessed the sort of risky play the princes liked to engage in. You adored horses, even though you did not ride or own one, but the princes’ giant Arrochs, taller than you by over two feet, wider than a bull elk and possessing unpredictable temperament, frightened you a little. The older princes seemed to wield full mastery over them, but even Gelir was just starting to learn, so you shared in the Queen’s reluctance to permit little Legolas to mount one just yet. 

“Look up there, your High--Legolas!” You pointed towards the naked boughs of a nearby tree, where a curious tree mouse scrambled across a high overhanging branch to watch their sleigh pass by. “That one is called a skyrunner.”

The elfling oohed and ahhed with loud appreciation, as he did at every creature you pointed out to him. Seeing the unbridled enthusiasm of a child enjoying new woodland discoveries made you so very glad you pushed aside your nervousness and accepted Arvellas’s invitation to join them on their winter ride down the Men-i-Naugrim.  

But being in the presence of the Scholar Prince in this situation, even surrounded by his boisterous siblings, challenged your ability to wrestle away unwanted thoughts about him. It was easier to think of yourself as his mere colleague when you were busy working side-by-side in the libraries, with piles of texts to fill your mind. You reasoned that Arvellas had asked you to come for the benefit of your wildlife expertise; no had yet surpassed you in the number of pages written to document the native flora and fauna of Eryn Galen. 

And what a pleasure it was to travel through these woods with the princes! For no matter how loudly they hollered, how fiercely they threw snowballs at each other, or how savagely their horses charged in and out through the trees, the forest animals did not retreat from their chaos. In the many years you had dedicated to tracking the native beasts of this realm, you had never before seen so many different creatures and rare species all at once come out of hiding, drawn to the exuberant energy of the five Thranduilions. 

You were so enraptured by the number of singing birds that perched on the sleigh’s front bow, and the squirrels that scrambled onto the backs of the pulling horses, and the one cheeky fox that crept up a delighted Legolas’s lap for some pets, that you did not immediately notice that Arvellas’s eyes were not on the wondrous sight of the gathered animals.  His gaze, perpetually kind and soft, and blue as the sunny winter skies, had settled solely on you.  

When you looked up and your gaze finally crossed paths with his, a strange, completely unwilled squeak flew from your throat. Mortified with yourself, you scooted sideways on the cushioned bench to maximize the distance between you. Suddenly, his arm stretched out and his hand encased your fingers in a tender squeeze that sent a clear message. 

You found yourself leaning close to the prince, drawn to him just like the woodland creatures were, goosebumps rippling over your skin when he whispered your name. His hand left yours to reach for your face, and your eyelids fluttered in anticipation. 

“SNOW!!!” Legolas yelled happily, dropping back down in the center seat while you lurched away in time to avoid knocking heads. “It is snowing!”

At least the falling ice flakes kept the elfling completely oblivious! As you tried to gather your composure, the roar of laughter announced the return of the other princes. Three riders burst back out on the road ahead, but only Mirion drove his horse all the way up to the sleigh. 

“Come on, honeg,” the eldest prince said, and stretched out his hand to Legolas.  “I will take you for a turn.”

The elfling jumped up so hastily he almost toppled off the sleigh. “Truly??”

“Are you sure that is wise?” Arvellas tried to say, even as Mirion yanked their littlest brother onto the Arroch’s back, securing the child in the circle of his arms.

“This is his opportunity.” You did not miss the twinkle in the Crown Prince’s eyes, and certainly not the indiscreet wink he tossed at Arvellas.  “And what can be wiser than seizing hold of every opportunity?”

They galloped off to rejoin Turhir and Gelir, and their merry band launched into a raucous song that faded with them into the distance, leaving behind the sleigh in the silence of the falling snow. 

It took a very long minute before Arvellas finally broke that silence. “I apologize if this outing has not turned out to be quite what you expected,” he sighed.  

“No… I suppose it hasn’t.” You took a deep breath, and something in the smell of the fresh snow and the way it brushed your cheeks gave you courage. Or perhaps the princes’ attitude of reckless abandon had pulled you in, too.

You scooted back across the bench, even closer this time, and snuggled in when Arvellas moved his arm to welcome you and draw you against the warmth of his chest. “Because I never would have dared expect anything as wonderful or perfect as this.”

Yuletide Series MASTERLIST

Yule Event Tag List: @a-world-of-whimsy-5 @achromaticerebus @aduialel @asianbutnotjapanese @auttumnsayshi @blueberryrock @conversacomsmaug @elan-ho-detto-elan-15 @entishramblings @freshalmondpandadonut @fizzyxcustard @friendofthefellowshipsnerdblog @glassgulls @heilith @heranintomyknife23times @ladyweaslette @laneynoir @lathalea @lemonivall @LiliDurin @quickslvxrr @ratsys @spacecluster @scyllas-revenge @stormchaser819 @talkdifferently6 @tamryniel @tamurilofrivendell @acornsandoaktrees @warriormirkwood @emmanuellececchi @minaturefics

[sotwk]

2nd Day of Yule: “Two Turtle Doves”

Crown Prince Mirion Thranduilion x Reader

Third Age 110 

The Last Homely House, Imladris

“Are you certain about this?” You gently stroked the downy throat of the sweet, grey-colored bird perched on the ledge of the open window. It chirped its approval of your touch, signaling not just its willingness, but its eagerness to set out on its special mission. 

But your question had not been for the amiable creature. It was for the Lady of Imladris, who finally rose from the desk where she had been working for the past several minutes while you waited, entranced by the swift movement of her skilled fingers. 

“This should do it.” Lady Celebrian flashed a triumphant smile and held up the small object, about the size and shape of an earwig, between her thumb and forefinger. “As for being certain, I think that is something you should ask yourself, not I or our little friend here.” She bent over to the bird on the windowsill, and before you could come close to see what she was doing, the tiny case that contained your letter had been secured to the animal’s right leg. “This will surely find its way to the intended recipient, so are you certain about your message?”

“I…yes, I am.” You knew you did not sound at all confident, and the blush that bloomed over your cheeks did not help matters. “I only hope that my words do not disappoint him.”

“Oh?” Celebrian’s tone was light and passive, but you were well aware of her deep love for Elvenqueen Maereth, and by extension, her sons. She had surpassed your mother in her eagerness to introduce you to Prince Mirion, even in the midst of the momentous occasion of her wedding day to Lord Elrond merely two summers ago. 

Yet Celebrian asked no questions, and gave no indication that she meant to press you for more information, whether at the moment or in the future. When you came to her to share news of the arrival of the feathered messenger from the Woodland Realm, you knew you could trust her to hold your secrets in confidence. 

However, you stopped short of sharing the contents of the letter with her, for you could not even read the words in private without sinking into a chair, overwhelmed by emotions you could not define.

“I believe he is ready to depart.”

Indeed you had tarried long enough in sending a response, almost unforgivably. You stretched out your arm, and the grey dove fluttered lightly to land on the edge of your hand.

“May kind winds carry you all the way home, darling friend,” you whispered. “Thank you for your courage.”

The messenger bird bobbed its head, trilled cheerily, and promptly took flight. In a flash it vanished into the evening sky, too quick in the darkness for even your sight to follow.

“What a long way to fly in terrible weather,” you sighed, peering up at the clouds overhead which appeared moments away from turning their icy burden into snowfall. “It seems like too much to ask of that fair little creature to brave such a journey.” 

“You may see it just as a delicate song bird.” Celebrian moved around you to close the shutters and keep out the incoming frost. “But Greenwood doves are exceptionally, deceptively hardy and utterly determined, just like their people. If that little one succeeded in finding its way here, then it will most certainly succeed in its quest home.” She slipped an arm around your shoulders to give you a gentle squeeze. “There is nothing left to do but wait.”

The Lady departed your room to leave you alone with your thoughts…which quickly turned to those words again. You glanced over at the book you left on the chaise by the fireplace. Within its pages you hid the letter that you had been reading over and over again since its arrival, even though the words had already nested within you, keeping his voice inside your head and his face in your mind’s eye. 

"The bond between two Greenwood doves is so steadfast that one could scarcely bear to be separated from its mate for long. I send this one to you because he is a trusted friend; one who understands the importance of his errand. Just as I do, he knows of separation and longing and the love that drives it all.

My only desire is to reaffirm the ardency of my affections for you. To know that you have been reminded of it, that you have thought of me, is enough to comfort me through this winter we are apart. 

I await my friend’s return with anticipation. I shall celebrate his reunion with his beloved, in the hope that I too may experience that same joy very soon."

Yuletide Series MASTERLIST

Yule Event Tag List: @a-world-of-whimsy-5 @achromaticerebus @aduialel @asianbutnotjapanese @auttumnsayshi @blueberryrock @conversacomsmaug @elan-ho-detto-elan-15 @entishramblings @freshalmondpandadonut @fizzyxcustard @friendofthefellowshipsnerdblog @glassgulls @heilith @heranintomyknife23times @ladyweaslette @laneynoir @lathalea @lemonivall @LiliDurin @quickslvxrr @ratsys @spacecluster @scyllas-revenge @stormchaser819 @talkdifferently6 @tamryniel @tamurilofrivendell @acornsandoaktrees @warriormirkwood @emmanuellececchi

[sotwk]

AHHHH YOU ARE MAGIC!!! I swear on the Elvenqueen's jewels, the song was playing on my playlist when I got the notif of this post!!! So I would say your timing is perfect and this is most definitely worth the wait!!! It's SO BEAUTIFUL. And the extra banner?? I am definitely also using it for future fics!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH. Such a lovely gift! *insert more key-smashing*

Now I'm going to lie down and stare at it and possibly weep with a mixture of joy-angst because I have so many feelings about these two and your moodboard captured it just as perfectly as James Arthur's amazing version of the Thousand Years song.

I WILL write these two getting betrothed and wed in SotWK AU fanfiction someday!

Moodboard prompt if you're still accepting them! XD Please and thank you!

Thranduil, Wedding, with song lyrics: "I have loved you for a thousand years. I'll love you for a thousand more."

FINALLY I AM HERE!!! HEHE

So sorry, this almost took me a year!! Just been really busy!!

But hehe I really really hope you like it @sotwk and that it was worth the wait

I also made a blend...... cuz I couldn't help myself hehe

[sotwk]

Hi Naneth! Do you know and/or play D&D? So...I've recently started playing it and got addicted to the game (surprisingly for someone who's always been a bookworm than a gamer hehe), and now I can't help but be curious what would the Thranduillions (maybe bonus Thranduil and his wife?) be like as D&D characters (or what kind of characters would they create and play as during D&D sessions)? Ooooh, now I wonder what a Thranduillion D&D session would look like XD!

Omg it's amazing that you asked me this question, because literally just this morning I was chatting with my sister about her starting to play tabletop D&D with her old college buddies! I said to her, "Man I'm jealous and I wish I could join in, but I would just be so lost and confused and annoying because I'll need everything explained to me multiple times." XD My sister is also trying to get me to play BG3, and although it's really, really tempting, I'm afraid even venturing into that would take up what little free time I have left!

Anyway, going into your question that I LOVE so much, about what the Thranduilions would be like if they had a D&D session. Using my limited knowledge of the actual gameplay, it would go something like this:

The Royal House of Greenwood Plays Dungeons & Dragons

Characters Chosen

Everyone in the family prefers to play Elves but sometimes may choose a Half-Elf, Human, Dwarf, or Halfling. Legolas may dare to try controversial classes (i.e. dragonborn, half-orc), but only when their parents aren't playing.

Mirion: Barbarian. Values Strength.

Turhir: Paladin. Values Constitution.

Arvellas: Wizard. Values Wisdom.

Gelir: Ranger. Values Dexterity.

Legolas: Druid. Values Wisdom.

Thranduil: Rogue. Values Dexterity.

Maereth: Bard. Values Charisma.

How They Would Play

The family likes to run the campaign as a group that quests together, rather than individuals, so they work together as a team.

Arvellas is the Dungeon Master mostly because he wrote the guide books and has by far the most organized brain among the brothers. He's also the calmest, most patient, and can keep his brothers in line in case things descend into chaos.

Legolas was the ringleader who initiated the idea to start/play this game in the first place. He begged and helped Arvellas to create the game books, with Arvellas wrangling Legolas's wild enthusiasm and all-over-the-place ideas into brilliant manuals. Legolas also crafted the dice, miniatures, and game boards himself, and he always has the most elaborately detailed character sheets.

Mirion is not much for this sort of game but is absolutely happy to humor Legolas and spend time with his family. Barely knows what is going on and essentially just follows what Legolas tells him he "has" to do. His character is often first to get injured or in trouble, but he laughs it off. Is eating an unholy amount of snacks the entire time.

Turhir is the tactical genius who thinks of creative ways to solve problems and defeat opponents. Mostly does his thing to keep the quest going and everyone alive, but also gives advice regarding combat tactics when asked. Is quietly the MVP of the campaign.

Gelir is just really annoyed by the concept of dice controlling his fate and blames lousy dice rolls a lot. Protests and argues against the "logic" of difficulty checks. Heckles any of his brothers who "mess up" (in his opinion). Chooses courses of action based on what's flashiest instead of what's wise. (He's much more strategic in real life, but this is a GAME. Plus he likes to mess with Legolas.)

Thranduil picks up on the game super quickly despite having the least experience. Frequently leaves the table to attend to crown business (or grab more wine). Assigns Turhir to play for him in his absence because they have the same mindset. Drinks a crazy amount of wine during the course of the game (it helps him relax) but still does not appear drunk, nor is his gameplay affected.

Maereth never gets into trouble (in the game) because literally everyone is half-focused on protecting her. Eventually she gently removes herself from the game so they can play for real without having to consider her. Helped Legolas make the dice, miniatures, and game boards.

I hope you (and all D&D/BG3 readers) enjoyed this as much as I enjoyed writing it! Thank you for this very fun Ask! <3

For more SotWK AU headcanons: SotWK HC Masterlist

Elves HC Tag List: @a-world-of-whimsy-5 @achromaticerebus @acornsandoaktrees @aduialel @asianbutnotjapanese @auttumnsayshi @blueberryrock @conversacomsmaug @elan-ho-detto-elan-15 @entishramblings @glassgulls @heilith @heranintomyknife23times @ladyweaslette @laneynoir @lathalea @quickslvxrr @spacecluster @stormchaser819 @talkdifferently6 @tamryniel @tamurilofrivendell @from-the-coffee-shop-in-edoras

Special Moots who are BG3 fans and might be interested tag: @ass-deep-in-demons @kylobith @tolkien-fantasy @creativity-of-death @missiemoosie (I probably missed some.)

Other useful links:

Introduction to SotWK

Fanfiction Masterlist

Fanfiction Request Guidelines

[sotwk]

Charlotte and George are my new favorite couple.

Y'all, I was bawling at final closing scene (last episode) of Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. It probably hit me so hard as a married woman who hopes to grow old with my husband, but OMG. There's really nothing more romantic and comforting than a love-filled, enduring marriage. As enjoyable as the Bridgerton children are, none of them could possibly live up to Charlotte and George. My heart hurts from the feels I get thinking about their love story, especially with the knowledge that it was based on a real-life royal couple. (Same reason I adore their descendants, Victoria and Albert.)

Tolkien side note:

The good news is, this has rekindled my interest in picking back up my writings for my personal OTP, Thranduil and (Elvenqueen) Maereth--another royal married couple who grew old together, while thriving through many hardships due to the strength and depth of their loyalty and passion for each other. Chills.

Unfortunately, it's become obvious to me that my Thranduil x Maereth or Thranduilion writings get much less support/feedback than my works featuring other canon characters. But well... that's the price most of us writers have to pay for our passion projects!

"Melmenya" - Thranduil x Maereth art commission by @beelzeebub

[sotwk]

I've always thought that the reason for Tolkien elves losing interest in sex after having the kids that they want is a by-product of his Catholicism. My mum was raised Catholic and she says that she was raised to believe that children were the thing that redeemed sex and that ideally sex wouldn't happen at all. (Idk if that's a universal experience but it was hers) So it makes sense that Tolkien's elves, as 'higher' more spiritual beings would be less sexual beings and so would not partake in sex after they'd had their kids. (Which is why I ignore that particular titbit of Tolkien lore😉)

Ooof! I'm quite familiar with Catholic teachings on sex, and it sounds like the values your mom grew up with were quite extreme! (Religious values and beliefs run across a very wide spectrum, but let's not invite debates on that!) That sounds a lot more like something Mrs. Kim from Gilmore Girls would say. LOL.

I admit I lean more towards the puritan, "higher being" interpretation of Elves, especially the Calaquendi who have seen the Light of the Trees. There has to be something that distinguishes them from the other Middle-earth races, and temperance when it comes to carnal needs and urges (i.e. sex, food), is one of those characteristics. So yes, Elves are less interested in sex than Dwarves, Hobbits, but especially Men, but even their appetites vary within their race.

When it comes to the SotWK AU's interpretation of Thranduil and his Elvenqueen wife, Maereth, here is a rundown of my take on it:

(My headcanons are mostly guided by what was written in the LaCE, because I'm a Type-A nerd who likes rules and manuals, but these are just MY interpretation of it. It's not hardline LaCE compliant either, and regardless, my takes are neither canon nor law!)

Thranduil and Maereth are descendants of Calaquendi, but had not made the journey themselves. Technically, Maereth is closer to the Light of the Trees and arguably more "blessed" in that manner, since her mother was born in Tirion (Valinor), as opposed to Oropher who never completed the journey.

Thranduil was always more free-spirited ("as wild as one of Araw’s Kine", Oropher described him in my fic "The Crown") than the average Sinda, and over the years became even more alike the Silvan people he ruled over.

Silvans are culturally more sexual than the Sindar or Noldor, not necessarily in the sense of being promiscuous, but rather that they take more pleasure in the act itself as way of bonding with their partners, not just for the sake of begetting children.

The Silvans do not lose interest in sex even after thousands of years, and are able to retain monogamous relationships with their partners because Elven bonds (platonic, familial, romantic, etc.) are as enduring as their physical immortality.

This is what helps the Silvan/Greenwood population endure through the millennia, throughout the "Mirkwood" dark ages, and into the Fourth Age and beyond in Eryn Lasgalen. They keep having sex, keep reproducing, and their population is sustained even through attacks and wars.

Oh, and culturally, the Silvans also love children and celebrate the process of raising them as a community. That's a key factor in their population growth too.

Thranduil and Maereth are, foregoing more eloquent terms, absolutely bananas for each other. Epic, epic, love along the vein of Professor Tolkien's love for his wife Edith, and its parallel romance--Beren and Lúthien. Could you imagine Lúthien replacing or loving anyone other than Beren? (I guess you can imagine anything in fandom, but I hope you get my point.) Well, it's the same with Thranduil and his Elvenqueen. It's a rather unpopular take on his love life, but that's how it is at least in the SotWK AU.

So yeah, they never tire of each other and never stop wanting each other, in any way, by any definition. They naturally stop begetting children after Legolas (their 5th), but the lovemaking definitely continues.

Sorry for the delay in this response, Anon--I hope you're still able to see and read this. And I hope the uncalled-for infodump makes it better, not worse! LOL. Thank you for the Ask!

[sotwk]

hello! you mentioned before how Maereth is a descendant of one of Feanor's sons but you haven't revealed it yet and no one has guessed it yet either

in a spur of the moment (and adrenaline from lack of sleep and too much work) 🤣 i would like to take a guess... is it Maglor? I did some searching and it seems he is the only one among the sons to have been married and live long enough for Maereth be born around 553 years of the sun (based on the end notes of last chapter, greenleaf's day out)

(I hope I spelled the names correctly 😅)

I know this reply is a bit late, my Anon friend, but you have to believe me that I was MASSIVELY EXCITED so receive your message! I haven't been in a huge rush to make a big reveal about Elvenqueen Maereth, though a couple of other friends have shown interest in her "hidden identity". But it's been a year since I first started writing about her, and you are the first one to come forward with a guess about her lineage.

YOU ARE CORRECT! Mostly. Queen Maereth, beloved wife of Elvenking Thranduil, comes from the line of Fëanor through his second son, Maglor. But Maglor is not Maereth's father, but rather her maternal grandfather.

From her father's side, Maereth is actually half-Teleri, and is the granddaughter of another renowned elf-lord, Círdan! (In the SotWK AU, Círdan wed one of the granddaughters of Olwë, a Falmari who had done the unthinkable and crossed the Helcaraxë, following her cousin Galadriel.)

Ever wonder how Legolas (seemingly randomly) turned out to be a shipwright in the Fourth Age? There is your headcanon explanation. It's in his blood!

This also means the last ruler of Eryn Lasgalen, Thranduil's grandson and heir, Aranion, son of Mirion, carries the blood of all three groups of Calaquendi. (He has Vanyar blood from his mother, Itarildë.) Just one of my favorite bits of SotWK HC lore.

I would have to make a very long post (or several) to fully explain the lineage of Maereth. That's quite a project that will take some time. So for now, please enjoy the quick summary of her ancestry, along with my fancast for the OC and canon characters. <3

The Ancestry of Elvenqueen Maereth, wife of Thranduil: Fancast Visuals

MATERNAL GRANDPARENTS

Maglor, son of Fëanor / Velcálë "Vanandur", Noldorin Servant of Vana (oc)

Fancast: Ben Barnes as Maglor; Zendaya Coleman as Velcálë

PATERNAL GRANDPARENTS

Círdan, Lord of the Falas / Eäriel, granddaughter of Olwë (oc)

Fancast: Iain Glen as Círdan; Olivia Hussey as Eäriel

PARENTS

Eärondir, son of Círdan (oc) / Laurinwen, daughter of Maglor (oc)

Fancast: Alexander Skarsgard as Eärondir; Lily Collins as Laurinwen

ELVENQUEEN MAERETH

Wife of Thranduil, mother of Legolas, and Elvenqueen of the Woodland Realm

Fancast: Jennifer Connelly as Maereth

Please free to send me any Asks about these characters! Thank you again for the wonderful Ask and for your interest in the SotWK AU!

Elves HC Tag List: @a-world-of-whimsy-5 @achromaticerebus @aduialel @asianbutnotjapanese @auttumnsayshi @blueberryrock @conversacomsmaug @elan-ho-detto-elan-15 @entishramblings @freshalmondpandadonut @fizzyxcustard @friendofthefellowshipsnerdblog @glassgulls @heilith @heranintomyknife23times @ladyweaslette @laneynoir @lathalea @lemonivall @LiliDurin @quickslvxrr @ratsys @scyllas-revenge @stormchaser819 @talkdifferently6 @tamryniel @tamurilofrivendell @spacecluster

Other useful links:

Introduction to SotWK

Fanfiction Masterlist

Fanfiction Request Guidelines

[sotwk]

Hi, it took me sometimes to decide to write this ask because I didn’t want to bother you. Then I realised that if an author has requests open is because they like the input so here I am: I saw you write also Celebrian and Elrond they are one of my favourite couples, so I thought to try.

If I’m not mistaken you’ve set the death of the Elvenqueen after the attack on Celebrian (first time I read that my heart shattered), so I would like to know if you haven’t said already what was Thranduil and Maereth’s reaction to what happened or if Celebrian sensing the darkness that would arrive in ME asked her dear friend to accompany her to Aman or whatever you have in mind about their friendship, really. And if you are willing I would also love a little ff about their family.

I loved Cel appearance in your ff: sins of our fathers and how you set the premise of that.

Of course take your time, no pressure at all and even if you can’t don’t worry!

Lady Celebrían in the SotWK AU: the Elvenqueen's dearest friend

I love Celebrían too!!! She is my favorite female canon character in Lord of the Rings--at least the way I envision her in my mind, since we are actually not given a lot of specifics about the Lady of Imladris.

My admiration for sweet, gentle Celebrían factored in greatly in my decision to develop her as a significant supporting character in the SotWK AU:

Not only is she one of Maereth's most beloved friends, but they are blood-relations. Maereth's father Eärondir (oc) is the son of Círdan the Shipwright and Eäriel (oc). Eäriel is the daughter of one of the sons of Olwë, and therefore a first cousin of Galadriel's. This means Celebrían is Maereth's paternal second cousin, once removed. (They are also related through the line of Finwë, but that's a whole other calculation!)

As you read in "Sins of Our Fathers", Celebrían and Maereth were friends even before Maereth met Thranduil. Celebrían was one of Maereth's main confidants through the centuries she struggled with the decision of whether or not to accept Thranduil's affections. Let's just say, if maids of honor were a thing in Elvish weddings, Celebrían would be Maereth's, no contest.

Furthermore, Celebrían is closely related to Itarildë (oc), the eventual wife of Prince Mirion Thranduilion. Itarildë's mother, Nimeithel (oc), is the younger sister of Nimloth (Elwing's mother), daughter of Galathil (brother of Celeborn). This means Celebrían is Itarildë's maternal first cousin, once removed.

Confusingly complex family trees aside, I am just trying to drive home the point that Celebrían means a great deal to the Royal Family of Greenwood. Sure, Elrond and Thranduil eventually become great friends, but the love began with and was always strongest between their wives.

One funny SotWK HC is that while Thranduil and Elrond had serious discussions about betrothing their children to each other (Arwen with any Thranduilion of her choosing) in order to further bond their families, Maereth and Celebrían opposed this, insisting that all their children should have full freedom in choosing their partners.

SotWK Fancast: Connie Nielsen as Lady Celebrían; Jennifer Connelly as Elvenqueen Maereth

Now finally, to address your real question, Anon: How did Maereth and Thranduil react to the attack on Celebrían, and her eventual passing to Aman?

 The attack on Celebrían occurred in T.A. 2509, when things were starting to get really dire in Mirkwood. The Watchful Peace that Mirion had won through his death ended, and the Necromancer was rising again in greater force.

Itarildë’s mother, Nimeithel, was traveling with Celebrían through the Redhorn Pass, and died trying to defend her cousin from the Orcs. Witnessing this added to Celebrían's grief and torment.

As soon as they received word of her capture, Thranduil sent Gelir and Itarildë with a group of soldiers to help recover her. This was ultimately unnecessary since Elladan and Elrohir recovered their mother on their own, but it was a significant gesture from the Elvenking, whose military resources were already strained from Mirkwood's own battles against Dol Guldur.

When Celebrían was taken home to Imladris to be healed by Elrond, Maereth immediately traveled from Mirkwood to be with her. She also brought her son Arvellas, the best healer in their realm, to lend whatever aid he could. (Again unnecessary, but a sign that their family would spare no expense to help the Lady of Imladris.)

Maereth stayed with Celebrían in Imladris the whole time she struggled with her recovery. Although Maereth at first tried to plead with her friend to remain in Middle-earth, the loss of Mirion and her other family members (both her parents, all her siblings) allowed her to understand Celebrían's desire for peace and rest in the Blessed Realm.

I don't believe Celebrían tried to ask Maereth to come with her, especially when she could not convince her own family to do so. But Celebrían's words about the growing darkness affected Maereth greatly, and although she never spoke of it to Thranduil, it made her foresee that her own doom would be coming soon.

Not only did Maereth support Celebrían's decision to leave, but she accompanied her to the Grey Havens (remember that Círdan is her grandfather!) and was there to give her a last goodbye before she sailed.

They truly were bosom friends to the very end, and when Maereth died and was released from the Halls, Celebrían was most certainly there to welcome her.

Thank you Anon, for the opportunity to discuss my Celebrían headcanons! I promise she will make many more appearances in SotWK fanfics, especially when I start writing Elrond x Celebrían stories! <3

Bonus: My Celebrían fancast alongside Hugo Weaving's Elrond. (I think Connie Nielsen is stunning, and is a great match for Hugo!)

For more Thranduil/Mirkwood headcanons: SotWK HC Masterlist

Elves HC Tag List: @a-world-of-whimsy-5 @achromaticerebus @acornsandoaktrees @aduialel @asianbutnotjapanese @auttumnsayshi @blueberryrock @conversacomsmaug @elan-ho-detto-elan-15 @entishramblings @freshalmondpandadonut @fizzyxcustard @friendofthefellowshipsnerdblog @glassgulls @heilith @heranintomyknife23times @ladyweaslette @laneynoir @lathalea @lemonivall @LiliDurin @quickslvxrr @ratsys @scyllas-revenge @spacecluster@stormchaser819 @talkdifferently6 @tamryniel @tamurilofrivendell

Other useful links:

Introduction to SotWK

Fanfiction Masterlist

Fanfiction Request Guidelines

[sotwk]

random ask but I was wondering who your favourite tolkien mothers are - either canon characters or ocs?

SotWK's Favorite Tolkien Mothers

OC Choice: Elvenqueen Maereth. I mean, who else would I pick? This lady is very, very important to me, but I have done her an extreme disservice by not writing about her nearly enough. I hope to gradually fix that, get the hundred headcanons and fic ideas out of my head, and help Readers understand how amazing she is.

Semi-Canon Choice: Lady Celebrian. I have a huge soft spot for Celebrian, and I just know she is wonderful to have been loved and chosen by someone like Elrond. Regarding her controversial choice to leave Middle-earth and her family behind, I have some headcanons about why this was a selfless act and done in order to protect her children.

Canon Choice: Gilraen. "I gave Hope to the Dúnedain, I have kept no hope for myself." This famous quote says everything. This is a mother's love, combined with the duty/willingness to serve her people and sacrifice for the good of humanity. She persevered even after the early passing of her husband and raised a worthy future king.

Honorable mentions:

Nerdanel - High kudos for birthing and raising seven sons and putting up with Feanor, but she really should have fought harder to keep at least some of those sons at home with her. I'm a bit skeptical that none of them loved their mother enough to STAY. They ALL chose their Dad? Unrealistic.

Aredhel - A lot of mistakes made, but she did the best she could for her son, including taking a bullet (javelin) for him.

Thank you for the Ask, Ace! :)