#oc: anárion

[annabawritersdream]

TOLKIEN OC WEEK 2024-DAY 2

Prompt: Canon character & original character relationship

Title: A Father's Love

Synopsis: Eönwë and his stepson have a chat before bed (FLASHBACK/NIGHTMARE=> if Anárion lives)

!MAJOR SPOILERS FOR MY MAIN WIP THE LADY OF ITHILIEN !

(link in general masterlist)

Words: 6,841 (AO3 Word count)

(Also posted on AO3!)

GLOSSARY (VALARIN)

Söz mü?: promise?

Babacığım: my dear dad; daddy

Ne olur: please

Hayır: no

Oğlum...öldü: my son...is dead

The meaning of all the other "foreign" words is explained within the story.

A Father's Love

A chest cold.

The child had suffered a chest cold, but the healers had told him he was on the mend. Eönwë himself had felt it, he was recovering. The persistent cough that had plagued him for weeks had finally abated and he was no longer feverish. He had lamented a mild headache and Eönwë had tucked him into bed. Anárion had smiled at him, begging for a nighttime story.

No one tells them like you do.

Eönwë had pressed his lips against the boy’s forehead before recounting a story about the earliest days of Arda. Anárion had listened to him intently, interrupting him every once in a while, to ask questions. By the end of the tale, he had found it hard to keep his eyes open and had released a loud yawn which had made Eönwë jolt in surprise.

Sorry…

Eönwë had run a hand through the boy’s hair.

There is no need for you to apologize, he had said to him, cupping his face.

Did I scare you?

The Maia had giggled.

I am petrified.

Anárion had briefly lowered his gaze.

You’re not afraid. You’re never scared. I want to be like you.

You should be yourself and be proud of your own accomplishments. You should not compare yourself to others. It will only harm you.

The child had frowned. Eönwë had clasped his little hand.

You will understand when you are much, much older.

Will you still be here by then?

Eönwë’s heart had faltered. He had blinked.

Would you like me to leave?

NO! Sorry…

I am not going anywhere.

You and Silnur will always stay with me. And with mamma too.

Of course.

Söz mü?

Eönwë had jokingly pinched the child’s nose.

Who taught you that?

Anárion had quietened, his eyes darting around the room and his lips pursed.

My mamma did. I like your language and I wanted to learn. She taught me all the words she knows.

While I am amazed at your mother’s linguistic skills and I am beyond certain she would be a great tutor, I cannot help but wonder why you did not come to me first.

I was told not to bot..both..b...

Who said you would bother me?

Everyone…they said…I am not your son…I am not like you…

Who said it? Do you know who it was? Do you know their names?

No...but...they’re mean to my mamma…and they’re mean to me too…

Promise me that you will not worry about it. I will take care of it.

The child had glanced at Eönwë, sorrow etched on his face.

You’re married to my mamma, but you’re not my dad. My papa died. I miss him. Will I see him again?

Eönwë had nodded.

When will I see him?

That hopeful tone was one Eönwë had known full well. He had met so many orphaned children following the War, so many grieving children…though they came from different backgrounds and from different realms, they all had shared one thing. Hope. Their eyes and their voices oozed hope. Hope that they would see their family again and hug their fathers, their mothers, their siblings. Those faces, those wide eyes, those high-pitched voices…

You will meet him again someday, he had said.

Do you know where he is?

No, the Maia had gulped, I cannot say that I do.

We can look for him together! He must be somewhere!

Perhaps we could.

Can my mamma come with us?

Eönwë’s heart had shattered. Such sweet innocence….

Of course she can.

He had kissed the top of his head. Of course she can.

Anárion had stared at him.

I would not want to go without you. You’re not my papa, but…I love you very much. I am happy you married my mamma. She smiles a lot now.

Eönwë’s eyes had filled with tears and his jaw had clenched.

You are kind and you help people. My papa did that too. But you are not as sick as he was. That is why he is no longer here. He was sick. I think you would have liked him.

I did meet him. More than once. I promised him to look after you before he left.

Do you remember what he looked like?

I do, my sweet boy.

We will find him much more quickly then. We could ask some people for help.

It is time that you slept, my child. I will visit you tomorrow morning.

Anárion had clasped Eönwë’s hand.

Wait! Why are you crying?

I am not crying, little one.

Anárion had wiped a tear off his cheek.

What is this, then? You’re weeping. You once said no one should lie. No lies.

I am not lying, Anárion.

Yalan yok. It means no lies. Silnur told me. He’s been teaching me a few words too. I think I have learned quite a bit.

Have you? Very well, then. Let us see if you can understand me.

The Maia had hinted at a smile as he had sounded out the words.

Yemin ederim yalan söylemiyorum.

Anárion had frowned as he had focused.

Could you repeat it?

Yemin…ederim…yalan…söylemiyorum.

The child had squinted his eyes, a vein bulging on his forehead. He had stared at Eönwë pensively until he had released a deep breath and shaken his head.

It’s difficult and you spoke so quickly. I did not understand what you said. Only Yalan, but that is because I already knew what it meant. I am sorry. I will try to improve. Could you help me?

I very well could. I would love to help you if you let me.

What did you say? What is the meaning of that sentence?

It means, I swear I am not lying.

Thank you. I will remember it.

He had paused and had smiled.

I asked Olórin but I think I would want you to teach me.

Thank you, my child. It is nice to hear. I...

The Maia had been struggling to reign in his emotions.The boy had sensed something was amiss and had looked at him in anguish.

What’s wrong? Are you alright? You are allowed to cry. I’m not like that horrible lady who is friends with mamma. She’s old and ugly. She doesn’t like it when people cry. I once did because I was upset and she slapped me. Don’t worry though, I am not like her. I won’t hurt you. Now, just breathe. You’ll feel better. Ouch, that hurts!

The light in the former Herald’s eyes had dimmed as he had released the child at once. He had not realized he had been gripping the boy's arm.

Forgive me please. I can help you if you tell me where…

Anárion had giggled.

It doesn’t actually hurt! You fell for it. Yalan…

Eönwë had patted the youngling’s head while yet again running his fingers through his hair.

You do not have to speak Valarin if you find it hard. I can understand you perfectly in your language.

I think you speak the Common Tongue very well. I too can understand perfectly.

Why, thank you, my lord.

I like it when you call me my lord. You should do it more often.

Eönwë had released a thunderous laughter.

As my lord commands.

Anárion had stared at him.

You are laughing but your eyes are glazed. You are not truly happy. Is it because of something I did?

No, child, I…what could you have done?

I do not know. No one likes me. Except perhaps Silnur. He’s my only friend. No one else wants to play with me. Especially Mäirel. I hope other Maiarin children can come here. Mäirel can go away whenever she wishes though. She is a Maiarin child I certainly do not want to spend my time with. She is hideous.

Eönwë had giggled.

You certainly have strong opinions, my lord. You must remember to be kind to her though. Regardless of what she tells you, you must always be gentle with her. If she truly bothers you, then…maybe come to me.

The child had nodded.

Everybody listens to you. They respect you so much. All of them. The army, the people...

He had frowned, his pensive gray eyes resting on Eönwë’s hand.

Is it because of that ring? It is beautiful. Can I have it?

Eönwë had smiled patiently.

You cannot have this one, but I can have a ring made for you if you so desire.

Anárion’s eyes had lit up.

Thank you! I will be respected too if I wear a ring. All the important people at court have one. The King, Grandpa Faramir…

Respect must be earned, my child, Eönwë had chided him.

Is wearing a ring not enough?

I am afraid it is not.

How does one earn it then? I always try to be nice to others. That is what my mamma told me. She always mentions how I should treat people the way I would expect to be treated.

Your mother is right. Though in some cases it might not be as easy.

Is my case…one of those?

It might be.

Why?

I will tell you at a more suitable time.

I have heard that before. I hear it all the time. People around here have no imagination. They all act the same. They discuss the same boring things all the time and wear the same boring clothes. Even my mamma’s dresses…I can barely tell them apart.

I agree with you.

My mamma looks beautiful in them though. I know this is very ungentle…ungentlem…

He had taken a deep breath, his eyes alight with frustration much to the Maia’s amusement.

I know it is very UNGENTLEMANLY of me to say, but the other ladies are much uglier. Not as bad-looking as that old lady my mamma seems to like so much for no apparent reason, but I reckon they are not as pretty. My mamma is the most beautiful lady in ALL of Middle-earth. She is even prettier than the red roses that grow beneath her window.

Eönwë had concurred.

Your mother is the most beautiful woman in all of Ëa.

A bewildered Anárion had stared at him.

What’s Eä?

Eä refers to the Created World as a realization of the vision of the One at the beginning of Time. It is another word for Universe.

I thought Arda was the universe.

Arda refers to the world as you know it. As the Children of Ilúvatar know it. Arda is within Eä.

If Arda is our world and our world exists within Eä…does that mean that everything we see, all the things which are and ever were…are also within Eä?

That is indeed correct. Only the Timeless Halls and the Timeless Void are beyond it.

What are they?

The Timeless Halls are the dwelling of Eru Ilúvatar and the Timeless Void is a place darker than darkness.

How can you be so knowledgeable? It almost sounds as if…

As if?

The way you speak of these things…you speak of them as if you had lived them, as if you had been there.

Eönwë had smiled and had averted his eyes, Anárion’s attention once again focused on the Maia’s ring.

It is the most beautiful piece of jewelry I have ever looked upon. Are you certain I could have one? Were you jesting? I never seem to be able to tell whether I am being made fun of or lied to.

I would never deceive you. I would never play tricks on you or mock you. Yalan yok, remember?

Yalan yok.

He had sighed.

I would love to have my own ring. Will my brother have one too?

I have not really thought about it. He certainly could. Possibly.

Will you love my brother more than you love me? You do love me, do you not?

Eönwë’s chest had tightened.

Anárion, aslan parçam benim, of course I love you. Why would you doubt it?

I don't know. I think you WILL love my brother more though. Because he’s yours. You will be his actual father. I…I wish you were my dad too. I never told you, but…I always wanted to call you that. I already have one and I want to meet him again, but you…you were always so good to me. You didn’t have to be, yet you were. You will probably forget about me once my brother is here, but I will not. I will always love you. My mamma was right. She said people couldn’t help it. Everybody loves you and it is not hard to understand why. Oh no…you are crying again. Don’t cry, papa.

The Maia had burst into tears, tears which had soon turned into loud sobs.

Benim aslan oğlum, aslan parçası…thank you.

His voice had cracked. You made me so happy.

Will you take me to fly tomorrow?

I…I do not know if your mother…

Ne olur, babacığım, he had begged, mamma will not know. We shall not tell her anything.

I think it is high time you went to bed, my child.

It is too early for bed. I am six, I am an adult. Early bedtime is only for children. Even my mamma says I am a young man now. That is how she calls me. I may be younger than most but I am a man nonetheless.

It is a common feeling among young men such as yourself. One is often impatient to grow up.

Anárion had rolled his eyes.

I want to ride a horse and fight. I love reading and drawing too, but I am ready to start my military training. I have tried to tell my mamma but she will not listen to me. Can you train me? Could we start tomorrow? Mamma does not necessarily have to know. We could tell her of course, but we could also keep it a secret. Can you keep a secret babacığım?

Aslan parçam benim…

What does that mean? You have called me that before. I forgot to ask you about it.

It is a term of endearment fathers may use when talking to their children. Their male children.

Aslan is the word for lion.

It is.

Parçam benim…?

Parçam could be translated as…a part of me or a piece of me. Benim simply means my or mine depending on what you wish to say.

So I am your…own personal piece of lion? The mane or the tail of a lion? Did you know that the Haradrim once used to keep them locked up  in cages and fed them human flesh? My tutor had me read about it during my History lesson, but Uncle Selim said it’s all nonsense. My tutor was actually surprised when I told him I could read. Did you know that? He did not believe me, that is why he had me peruse that paragraph.

You are a very smart boy, aslan parçası.

Is it a synonym for aslan parçam?

It is indeed. Although they must not be translated literally.

So, what do they actually mean?

My brave boy. My brave son. Benim aslan oğlum.

Babacığım, he had squealed, can we fly and practice sword fighting tomorrow? Can you please teach me how to hold a dagger properly?

Anárion…

Please, babacığım. Please, please, please. Ne olur.

My brave young man, if you think a pair of expressive gray eyes and a squeaky voice can manipulate me into…

He had let out an exasperated sigh. He had relented eventually. Of course he had. He would have done anything for his wife’s son. For his son.

I suppose I…

Yes?

Five minutes of training. Five, no less.

Only five?

Indeed.

But…

No arguing and no talking back, aslanım. And, yes, before you ask, it is also another way of saying…my brave boy.

Anárion’s disappointment had been wiped off his face at once.

I really like your language. Though objectively difficult, it does not seem to be nearly as complicated as Quenya or Sindarin. I think I will very much enjoy learning it. Can we also do that tomorrow? I will write a few sentences in my notebook, and you will translate them for me. And I will repeat them.

As you wish.

How do you say that, for instance?

Emredesin. Emredersiniz is the formal way of address which is reserved for one’s lord or lady.

Are you my lord?

I should like to be your father if you will let me.

You are my lord as well though, are you not? My Lord Father. My other papa was my lord too. I always called him so. Must I also kneel and kiss your hand?

Perhaps you could do in public to avoid any raised eyebrows, especially when other Maiar can see you. That is, if you’re comfortable with it. I would never force you to do anything against your will, aslan parçam. Especially in a private setting. As a matter of fact, I would like to encourage you to forsake formalities when you are with me. The One knows all too well how uncomfortable I become on such occasions.

You squirm every single time someone takes your hand, kisses it and brings it to their forehead. Is it a common custom in Aman? I am aware that you hail from there and so do Silnur, Mäirel and Olórin. All the Maiar are originally from there.

That is indeed true.

Is it a beautiful kingdom? How does it compare to Gondor? I like Ithilien. Ithilien is a Gondorian…fief. I learned this word the other day during my lessons. Politics. I hate politics, it’s SO boring. Why do I need to study it? I would rather read poetry, which I also fail to understand. But it certainly is more to my taste.

The child’s dramatic eye rolls and overall theatrical mannerisms had had the Maia in stitches.

You will one day succeed your father as Lord of Lebennin. There are many things one must know in order to be a just ruler. Politics is one of them. Though I concur that it can be quite unpleasant.

I would like to visit Aman one day. Could you take me? It is beyond the Sea, is it not?

It is beyond the Sea.

He had not had the heart to tell him he would never be allowed in. Thankfully, Anárion had soon come up with other questions. Such an intelligent, insightful child. Perhaps a bit too much of a chatterbox—especially when compared to the restrained children of the Firstborn dwelling in Eldamar—but Eönwë had known another Child of Ilúvatar whose preferred pastime included asking questions at all times. The boy’s mother. His own beloved wife.

Have you been to Dol Amroth?

I have not. Prince Imrahil came to visit but I have yet to the return the favor.

I have not been either. We could go together!

He had yawned and Eönwë had kissed his forehead.

We could travel anywhere, you and I. Would you like to know where you are going now?

The child’s eyes had filled with curiosity and impatience.

Are we going somewhere?

I do not know about myself, but you certainly are, aslanım.

I do not want to go if you’re not with me. You promised.

I can come with you.

Where are we going?

To sleep.

Papa! It’s not fair!

It is late, aslan parçam. You have been yawning quite a lot. What do you think your mother would say if she saw us talking right now?

Mamma is not here. She’s probably sleeping in her room. My brother makes her so tired. I hope she’ll feel better once he’s here. I miss playing with her. Oh, I have a question.

I am not surprised. Go ahead.

How did he end up in her belly? Did you put him in there?

Eönwë had taken a sip of his athelas concoction—the wounds Gorthaur had inflicted him over a decade prior still pained him greatly—and had nearly choked on it. For the longest time, Silnur had believed the stories told to Elven children about babies being carried by special storks assigned to families by Eru himself. If only Anárion had been as naïve…

I…

Deeply embarrassed, the Maia had hastily brought the cup to his lips once more.

It is a really good tonic. Would you like some?

Anárion had eagerly nodded and had quickly emptied the cup.

It is indeed delicious, he had muttered.

He had not spoken for a while and Eönwë had never felt more relieved. Until…

How did you put him in there?

Eönwë had been torn between leaving or faking a coughing fit before deciding against both options. He had taken another sip of the concoction and had cleared his throat.

What makes you think it was I who put him there, aslan oğlum? How do you know it was me?

He had immediately regretted his word choice, but the child had not seemed to notice.

Oh, it’s called logic, babacığım. You went to her chambers and a few weeks later my brother was in her belly. No one else went to her chambers except for you, so it could not have been anybody else.

Eönwë had gulped.

How do you…

I do not know how you did it. I have been thinking about it though and I think I might have an idea.

Eönwë’s had unbuttoned his tabard slightly as he reminded himself to breathe, his hairline drenched in sweat.

Would you care to elaborate?

You started singing and he appeared out of nowhere.

The Maia had swiftly regained his composure.

I sang him into existence? Is that what you’re suggesting?

Something along those lines. My tutor told me something. He said some people called Ainur dwell in Aman, the place where you come from. They are special people, I think. Well, they’re not really people. They have no form, and they sing things and make them real. They think of food, for instance, and food appears before them. They have powers. They don’t have a body like you and I and can travel across objects…I think. I am not sure about that. Anyway, they sing, and they are very good at it. And though you are not one of them—you look far too corporeal—I thought you may have learned from them. You talked to them and perhaps even studied with them. That’s how you know so much. You had way better tutors than most of us.

I did meet a few of them.

Can you actually see them?

Yes. You met some of them too.

Anárion’s eyes had widened in bewilderment.

They came here!? Are they here? I don’t want them to hurt me, I am scared.

They will do nothing to you. Most of them are nice and even those who may appear sterner would not dare touch you. Not while I am around.

How come? Do you have authority on them?

As a matter of fact, I do.

Anárion had slowly emerged from under his favorite blanket, wariness lingering on his features.

Is it because of your ring?

Eönwë had nodded silently.

Was it always yours?

No, my child.

Who gave it to you?

The High King of the Ainur did. His wife handed it to me the day I married your mother. You may call it a wedding gift. Your mamma wears a ring which used to belong to the High Queen.

Anárion had frowned.

Why would the High King give it to you? Who are you? Are you one of them?

I was the High King’s herald. For a long time, I wore the ring Olórin now bears.

So you’re an Ainur.

Ainur is plural. One Ainu, more Ainur. I am an Ainu.

Anárion had not replied and Eönwë had lowered his head.

I probably should have told you sooner. I understand if you are disappointed. I hope you can forgive me. I will see you tomorrow if you can find it in your heart to…

He had risen to his feet, his words trapped between his lips. He had already opened the door to leave the room when he had heard a tiny voice behind him.

Don’t go papa. Stay with me.

He had turned back at once, wiping away a lonely tear.

Oh papa, I am sorry. I never wanted to make you cry. I always make you cry and I feel so bad.

Can you forgive me?

Forgive what?

I lied to you. Yalan yok.

You did not lie, papa. I never asked you about it. Come back here please. Don’t leave me. I will go to sleep; I will do anything you say. I am so proud of you, and I hope that, one day, you can be proud of me, too.

Oh, aslan oğlum, he had whimpered, my brave boy…

I always knew you were special. My mamma would not have married you otherwise. I read about some bad Ainur, but you cannot be bad. You are so good. You are the best of them. And I love you very much. I always did even when I did not show it. I thought I wasn’t allowed to; both because I already had a dad and because I told not to bother you. But…now I understand that I can love you both. I am allowed to love you and I want to be with you and mamma. And then we can all go and find my papa, wherever he is. We could all play together. I miss my other papa, but I can endure everything as long as you’re with me. Because you too are my papa and I love you as much as I loved him. Maybe…maybe even a little more. I shouldn’t be saying this, but…that is what I feel. You took care of me when you did not have to. I could never repay you the way you deserve but I want to thank you. Thank you, papa.

So mature, so intelligent, so well-spoken. Eönwë seemed unable to stop the flow of his tears.

Destur, papa. Destur.

Eönwë had frowned.

What?

Destur. Olórin and aunt Ilmarë always yell it when people are being too noisy and either you and mamma are about to enter a room. I saw a girl cry once and Aunt Ilmarë talked her into…desturing…and she calmed down. I thought it would make you feel better.

A feeble laughter had escaped the Maia’s throat.

Destur is a word to convey attention and respect. An invite to composure. If one wishes to make way for someone of importance—a king or a lord—that is the term to be used in the Valarin language. It can also be used to scold someone for behaving disrespectfully before a Maia of higher status or a Vala. It carries various nuances of meaning.

You are a Maia and that I knew…but you are also an Ainu?

I am.

What are the Valar? Are they Ainur too?

We belong to the same order and share the same core, the very same essence. The Valar only have greater power, will and authority under the One, Eru Ilúvatar.

So…both Valar and Maiar are Ainur. Two different groups of the same sort of…thing?

You could say that.

You said the Valar have greater power than the Maiar. Since you’re a Maia you’re supposed to be weaker than the Valar.

That is correct.

I don’t believe it. Is there truly anyone more powerful than you?

Indeed, my child.

I am not convinced. Has anyone ever beaten you in a duel?

Power is a much broader concept than the mere strength of arm, aslan parçası.

Can we talk about it tomorrow? I am sleepy.

Oh, now you want to sleep?

Anárion had nodded, his eyelids droopy.

I am very sleepy at the moment. I wasn’t earlier but I definitely am now. I swear I didn’t lie. Yalan yok. Oh, I would like Eagle to sleep with me.

Eagle?

My stuffed toy. It’s an eagle so I called him Eagle. I could not think of another name. Perhaps tomorrow…

Perhaps tomorrow. Good night, aslanım.

Babacığım?

Yes?

You can have my pillow. Please don’t go.

You have never asked me to…

I would like you to stay, he had insisted, if it does not displease you.

I will stay for as long as you want me to.

Anárion had excitedly nodded in approval.

Where is Eagle? He must be feeling lonely.

He’s in the trunk where my mamma keeps my winter nightshirts. The one near the door.

Eönwë had opened it and had picked up the toy.

Would you like to change for the night?

The child had shaken his head.

Very well. Would you like me to tell you another bedtime story? It seems to me you rather enjoyed the other one. Perhaps you may prefer to hear an anecdote or…

I am tired, papa.

The Maia had dismissed the sudden feeling of alarm that had awakened within him.

Are you?

Y...yes.

That is certainly unexpected. I would suggest you get some rest then.

I sleep on the left side, you on the right and Eagle will be fine right in the middle of the bed.

He had laid down and the Maia had promptly imitated him.

You can tell me a story tomorrow morning before breakfast if you like. I love your stories. They are always so detailed. I should have known you were one of the Ainur. I genuinely thought you were very imaginative. Like me. Most elderly people cannot tell good stories, but you never were ordinary. As I said, I always knew you were special. But I can’t believe I did not guess it sooner.

It is alright. Though may I ask…did you call me an old man?

I think so.

Do I…look old perhaps?

You look older than me and I am a grown-up now. I am six years old. That makes you an elderly man. Logically, it is reasonable.

The Maia had smothered a wheeze.

Does that make your mamma…old as well?

Anárion had pondered the question.

No.

Oh. How is that? If all those who are older than…

My mamma is my mamma.

Eönwë had cast a tender glance at him.

Of course. So silly of me to even question it.

He had ruffled his dark hair.

Now, get some sleep.

Wait…papa?

Yes?

How do you know I will have a brother? I keep saying I will have a brother because that’s what my mamma says. She only likes boys, but I wouldn’t mind having a sister…as long as she’s nice to me. If she were to be like Mäirel…

Eönwë had chuckled.

She would be a handful.

Anárion had recoiled.

Were that to be the case, I would run away to Lebennin and pretend she never existed. On a more serious note…how do you know?

I really don’t, aslanım. It is only a vague feeling…I cannot really tell you. I’m sorry. I just…I feel it will be a boy.

Do you truly believe it?

I do.

The boy had sighed in relief.

I am beyond happy then. Boys have always been nicer to me than girls. I cannot wait to meet him.

Neither can I.

I am sure Eagle is happy too. He reminds me of you. That’s why I love him so much.

Aslanım…

I’m going to sleep now. I’ll sleep all night. How do you say good night?

İyi geceler.

İyi geceler, babacığım. Seni çok seviyorum.

Where did you learn that?

I don’t remember. Silnur must have taught me. Or maybe I have heard someone else saying it. I don’t know.

Eonwë kissed him on the cheek.

I love you too, my brave son.

Anárion had gripped the Maia’s hand.

Good night to you too, Eagle.

He had clutched his stuffed toy before he had fallen asleep. Eönwë had watched him for a while before he too had slipped into slumber, his arm wrapped around the child’s waist. He had been woken by the sun coming through the windows and had stirred. Anárion had not reacted, his hands clutching his stuffed animal.

Aslanım?

The child had been a light sleeper since birth. He had often been woken by people quietly entering his room or simply sitting next to him. Eönwë knew it. He had caressed his face and had immediately retracted his hand. His skin was cold. Cold and too pale even for a child of Númenórean descent. Eönwë had held him—Eagle falling to the side—and had whispered a lullaby into his ear while rocking him in a rhythmic motion.

Aslanım…

His own breathing had accelerated, his surroundings blurry. He could not breathe.

 Aslan oğlum…

He had coughed and gasped as he walls had closed in around him.

 Anárion wake up! WAKE UP! Hayır…Hayir…you are alright, you are fine…I promised I would take you to fly…get up…please get up…I promised you I would…

He had pressed a hand on his neck. Perhaps he had been mistaken. Perhaps he was fine. Perhaps he was simply exhausted and in need of more sleep. Perhaps all would be well. A six-year-old child was not supposed to…to…

Anárion’s lifeless body had slipped from his hands as his vision had blurred even further. The Maia had fallen forward and his eyes had darkened. Someone had rushed to his side but Eönwë had not seen them.

HEKİM ÇAĞRİN, ÇABUK!!!

Olórin. He could not see his face but he had instantly recognized his voice. That warm, low tone which had always brought him comfort. This time though, nothing would ease his pain. Such pain—having to live with it—was worse than death.

Olórin had yelled—presumably at the guards stationed by the door—to send for a physician. Had he not realized? Had he not yet understood?

Oğlum…öldü.

Eönwë had attempted to grip what he believed to be his herald’s arm but it had all been in vain. He had let out a labored sigh, darkness taking him at last.

-

He had no memory of the days and weeks immediately following Anárion’s death. All that had been able to recall was his wife’s pain. Her screams, her cries, the intense hatred in her eyes.

Elphirion had entrusted his son to you. On his deathbed, he begged you to protect him. Is this how you took care of him? Is this how you honored my late husband’s will? You murdered my son. He was my pride, my light in this dark, horrid world. My heart and my hope. My only hope. And you took him away from me. You betrayed me.

She had attacked him at the risk of endangering their unborn child, the baby brother Anárion had been so eager to meet. The baby brother who would be born only three weeks later and whose funeral they would attend before the end of his first week within Eä. Still nameless, he had been buried in the Halls of Kings. Far too soon had he come and had left just as quickly. His spirit had abandoned his fána and his father had suffered through it, nearly succumbing to grief. The golden-haired Maia had indeed nearly departed the world, for the sudden pain had been too great for him to bear, another loss too grievous to face. His wife had let her rage consume her, yet she had cried and screamed in agony when told of her husband’s impeding doom. She had loved him deeply and, though the ravaging pain in her soul had caused her to lash out at him, she still loved him fiercely. She had been by his side and had slowly nursed him back to health, reigniting the faith he seemed to have lost. She had held his hand and they had healed one another. They both knew the pain would never abandon them, but their love had proved to be stronger than the forces which had kept them apart, their bond stronger than hopelessness. Together, they had bid their last farewell to Anárion, his body to be entombed in Pelargir next to that of his father. Elenna had wept as her son’s body had been transferred from the temporary casket in which he had been resting to a more embellished one which was to be his home until the Breaking of the World. He had been buried with his father’s heraldry, a few books and Eagle, the faithful friend he had clung to in his last moments. Eönwë had quietly approached the casket as his wife and the rest of her party—her ladies-in-waiting, the Steward of Gondor and her siblings—had stepped away. The Maia had slowly removed the shroud covering his body and had beheld him one last time. He was unchanged. His dark hair, his lips, his nose…he truly was his mother’s spitting image. He had been her pride and joy. His death had shattered her. It had broken them both.

Hello, my brave boy, he had whispered, aslan parçam benim. Aslan oğlum…

He had sighed.

You would probably hug me if you saw me right now. You never liked it when I cried. You always went out of your way to try and cheer me up. Especially that one night. Do you remember it? Little did I know it would be your last.

He had smothered a sob.

Words have often failed me. I only wish we could have had more time. We needed more time. You were so eager to learn, to explore, to grow up. Aslanım…I wish I could tell you how you’re missed. I wish you were here to see it for yourself. Perhaps I am wrong. Perhaps you do know, after all. I ignore what lies beyond the Circles of the World, but I hope you are allowed to fly. Maybe you have already met some of my old friends. Thorondor, for instance. His brother Landroval too. They will probably answer some of your many questions. I miss them so much. Your constant, curious, intelligent questions.

He had smiled, his eyes filling with tears again.

You were so smart. You ARE so smart, my child. You shall live on in the memory of those who were lucky enough to get to meet you, to spend some time with you. You have not died, my sweet boy. And neither has your brother. It was, in fact, a boy. A beautiful boy. A sweet boy, just much smaller than you ever were. You would have loved him, I’m certain of it. He…he did not make it. He did not survive. He was so tiny, but he was a fighter. He was brave too. We were so concerned about his health that we did not even think of a name. If he is with you…I would like you to know that you have my permission to do what we could not manage. Just don’t name him ‘Baby’ or ‘Child’. You may call him ‘Brother’, but that is supposed to be a form of endearment, not a given name. I trust you will be logical and reasonable. You LOVED those words. They made you sound so grown and that is what you liked the most, I reckon. You were an adult already. So sensible and caring. We shall meet again but until then…I am going to miss you terribly.

He had hurriedly brushed a hand over his face.

You had asked me for a ring. I had one made for you. It is like mine but smaller in size. I think you’ll like it. I hope so, at least. I am holding it tightly in my right hand. I kept in my pocket for a long while. I would like to give it to you. I think you would accept it right away.

He had slipped it on his left index finger and had shivered as he had pressed his lips and his forehead on his little hand. Death had left him untouched, his body intact.

The Maiarin salute you were so curious about.

He had enveloped him in the shroud before signaling for the casket to be closed. He had bowed his head.

Farewell, my lord. Aslan oğlum. My dearest. Eagle will always be with you. You did not manage to come up with a name for him either, but you needn’t worry. You will have time now. You will never be alone. And when the time comes and Arda is again made whole, we shall reunite. I promise.

He had turned and had glanced at Elenna. They had stared at one another for a moment before falling into each other’s arms.

 He loved you. Oh, how he loved you. It was you whom he had chosen. You were his father.

I know. And he was my son. My dear son. My brave son.

Thank you for reading! I hope you liked it!

Additional tags:

@tolkienocweek

@lucifers-legions

@emmanuellececchi

@saurongorthaur9

@evenstaredits

@a-world-of-whimsy-5

@cilil

Please tell me if I've missed someone. Sorry for the delay. New house (still a lot of things to unpack and my internet situation is not the best. Also, my mental health has been giving me trouble these past few days so I'm sorry if I disappeared)

I'll try to catch up and read everything shortly. I'll try to contribute to the OC week as much as I can, but let's just say that perfectionism, writing in a second language, being extra slow at writing and a new house is not the best combo. Still, I'll try polishing and posting more of my writings throughout the remaining days of the week and maybe even later if I can.

Thank you & I hope you enjoyed.

[eilinelsghost]

10 First Lines

Thanks to @sallysavestheday for the tag to share the first lines of my last 10 fics and consider whether there are any patterns in the way I start things off:

It unnerved him each morning to be greeted by the same quick smile across the breakfasting table, to find that table laid with those same berries he knew from Nargothrond, the same fresh loaf and pitcher of spiced cream.  Seedlings 1 G: Bëor, Finarfin, & many others Technically this is the second line, but since it was part of the "give me a line and I'll write the rest" prompts, this is the first I wrote.

“There is a line of smoke to the north-east.” Darkly the Sundering Flood T: Finrod, Beren, Edrahil, OC

He is nearly weightless. An Anchor Incarnate G: Gelmir & Gwindor

Arafinwë knew the path without thought.  In Memory Beside You G: Finarfin & Bëor

The laugh rumbled through Finarfin’s bones.  Fight With Thine Own Hand T: Finarfin, Orodreth, Morgoth

Finrod’s dive cut through the surface, hardly leaving a splash as he slipped beneath Ivrin’s mere.  In These Holy Waters T: FInrod/Bëor

Once again, Finrod caught sight of him through the trees. And Still the Light Returns T: Finrod/Bëor, Belen, Gildor, others

I rise. Alone upon the crested brine A Bitter Wine G: Eärendil/Elwing A sonnet, so I wasn't quite sure whether the first line should be the first line or the first sentence, so I did the former and you all can choose for yourselves.

Anárion grew tired of pacing. Atanatárissë G: Anárion, Silmariën, Hiril, Andreth, Adanel, Belen, Bëor, Finrod

He looked a small, frail figure outlined beside the white crags of the shoreline. Little Lords of the Brine G: Finrod & Orodreth

So apparently I really like to start with short lines. Much like @sallysavestheday noted in hers, these are usually followed by and inseparable from a longer sentence that does much of the work.

Tagging @that-angry-noldo, @searchingforserendipity25, @outofangband, @swanmaids, and anyone else who thinks this sounds fun!

[sotwk]

Whag do you think about Lord of The Rings: The rings of power?

Did you watched it? If not, why? If yes, why?

Oooh! A bit of a controversial question, but one that I am happy to finally be asked, so I can give my thoughts and opinions about it. Thank you for the Ask, @estethell!!

My Thoughts on "The Rings of Power"

When I heard a new Tolkien/Middle-earth series was coming out, I was super excited about it. I watched the first two episodes the very evening it came out on Amazon. My excitement was so contagious, I even got my husband (who wouldn't know an elf from a dwarf) to sit down and watch it with me for like 5 whole minutes.

Now, the truth: my initial excitement about the series quickly dropped about four episodes in. The storyline and characterizations just weren't really what I expected (actually, I'm not even sure what my expectations were, except that they were high), and so my interest dwindled in my disappointment.

However, a few weeks later, after all the episodes had been released, I sat back down to finish the series, and my impressions of it improved overall.

I wouldn't say I love Rings of Power, but there are enough things about it that I liked and enjoyed to be able to engage with others who do love it. It's kind of like the folks who didn't like The Hobbit movies, but are able to gush over Lee Pace's Thranduil anyway.

Stuff in Rings of Power that I liked:

Liked BEST: Young Elrond, and the way he was portrayed as such a wise and kind lord by Robert Aramayo (so handsomely elf-y!).

A Close Second: Durin IV and Disa. What a wonderful couple that brought just the right amount of comic relief.

The chance to see Khazad-dum in its glory.

Poppy Proudfellow. We all need a friend like her.

The music/soundtrack, ESPECIALLY the song "This Wandering Day" Poppy sang--I literally cried when she sang it.

Arondir. He was a such sweetheart and I hope he comes back next season.

Adar. The take on orcs being corrupted elves is one I embrace.

Elendil and Isildur. Excellent acting on Lloyd Owen's part, and I liked Maxim Baldry's earnestness.

Halbrand. I'll admit, I wasn't too impressed or happy with the revelation of him as Sauron, but the character alone as it stands was actually very good, and very well portrayed by Charlie Vickers.

Stuff I didn't like so much (so probably don't ask me about them 'cause I prefer not to dwell on critiques):

Short-haired elves. Just not a fan, purely a preference thing.

Galadriel being short. This is petty and minor, but for some reason, even though Morfydd Clark did a fine job, it bugged me to see Galadriel looking UP at mortal men.

Celebrimbor cast as an older man. So sorry, Charles Edwards is a lovely actor, but this was far from what I had in mind for the character.

Eärien. Normally I will give OCs a chance, but I did not like this one. Felt really unnecessary, and the screen time should have been given to Anárion, wherever he might be.

The poor armor design and nerfing of the Numenorean army.

Portrayal of the Gwaith-i-Mírdain. Again, I expected much more.

The origin story of mithril. Such a strange choice.

WAY, WAAAAAAY too much CGI. Why is everything so shiny??

Overall low/poor production value. But honestly, there is never gonna be another production like Peter Jackson's trilogy. It's sad, but filmmakers just don't do that anymore. I hope someone proves me wrong.

I remain conflicted about the following:

The Haladriel ship. I'm a Celeborn fan (I have some lovely HCs about him and his ties to Thranduil), and I ship Galadriel with him. However, the way Halbrand looks at Galadriel just does something to me, so even though I'm not sold, my mind is open to it as an AU. I blame Charlie Vickers being such a charming rogue.

The Elf-Human love story. Arondir and Bronwynn were sweet and convincing, and I did swoon for them, but... this is just so overdone already. Couldn't we have just featured other kinds of relationships?

The revised origin of Gandalf. I kind of get it, and I appreciate the relationship between him and the Hobbit progenitors... but it's kind of also weird.

Halbrand as Sauron. I plan on withholding judgement until I see where they are going with this in Season 2.

Overall Rating and Conclusion:

62% fresh SotWK Tomato Rating

I choose to just be HAPPY and GRATEFUL that we have another cinematic adaptation to the Tolkien fandom, however flawed it might be.

Definitely looking forward to Season 2 and I will definitely watch it.

Positive vibes ONLY, please! I am happy to publicly post and gush with others about the good points of RoP. But I will not have public bashing of things other fans might love and enjoy. I am very against crapping on the things others love, even if I might hate them myself.

If anyone wants to discuss the things I dislike about RoP, we can do it via DM or private Asks.

Everyone has a right to enjoy whatever they want in this show; let's just all respect each others' differences in tastes and opinions! <3

[wordspin-shares]

Ten Lines Game

Thank you so much for the tag, @starryeyes2000!

Rules: Pick any ten of your fics, scroll to the midpoint, pick a line (or three or more) then share it. Tag others if you want.

You know, I have exactly ten fics, though eight are one-shots. 😂

From The Wings of Blue Butterflies (Tolkien-verse book-verse, multiple Ages):

Even more years came and went before Tom chanced upon the nightingale-singer once more. She sat with her maidens by the bend of the River-under-Shade flowing through the ancient forest, within mighty gates that led to cavernous halls of stone, weaving a great tapestry wherein were threaded deeds and many things past. She was clad in rich garments, with a circlet of gold upon her dark head and a delicate brooch of many-hued blue gems on her shoulder.

From Of Glass and Stars (LotR book-verse gapfiller):

The lake's surface was smooth as polish and dark, unbelievably dark. Hard as he had squinted, he could see no bottom, only a vastness of midnight-blue plunging down, down, forever. It was like trying to make out nonexistent shapes in the pitch-black of night. No ray of sunlight from above shimmered on the surface, but the mountains and a bit of bright sky cast their reflections on the blue water. And instead of his own likeness staring back at him, there were stars: pinpricks of pure white brilliance shining up from an unfathomable depth.

From The Sails are Set (LotR book-verse gapfiller):

Years and circumstances had matured him, and he had settled down to a respectable life in his parental home. And then a wizard and thirteen Dwarves had whisked him off to his first real adventure, kindling a fire within him that would not abate. And afterwards, even though he had resumed his old life in the Shire, the want to travel and know more of the wide world stayed with him, and he was changed.

From The Fifth Day (LotR book-verse gapfiller):

At last she saw him emerge and, as his eyes found hers, a touch of joy lifted her spirit. Too long she had lived with no close friends about her – her acquaintances, her own brother even, understood little of her soul, were blind to the invisible shackles binding her. This man, the late Steward Denethor's secondborn, had within moments perceived what others could not: that her maid's body was a prison, condemning her to mean tasks, robbing her of true freedom.

From Bedtime Stories (LotR Fourth Age book-verse gapfiller):

Fidgeting in bed, little Caradoc turned to his mother. "I have found the most pretty presents for you and Papa," he said excitedly, curly locks bouncing on his shoulders.

"And your Mama and I are looking forward to discovering what they are."

The young hobbit beamed as his father entered the room and came to sit by him on the bed. Then he frowned, gaze fixed on his parent's forehead. "Papa, how did you get that mark? It looks bad."

From Hallowed Waters (The Silmarillion book-verse gapfiller):

She halted and gazed at it long, a smile softening her face. After a while she drew nearer and looked up at the alder-trees by the water, feeling a gentle breeze upon her skin. She began to sing, a song of peace and growth, but when her eyes turned to the lake, she saw its surface was stained red.

From Beyond The North Stair (LotR book-verse gapfiller):

He had been young, a Lord of the Dúnedain journeying to the land of his forefathers, and eagerly ascended the many steps to the stone chair. When he had settled into its cold embrace, he had looked about him, west and south and east, seeing the wide plains of Rohan, and the High City where Anárion had been King, and the black mountains of Mordor.

From A Bit of History (LotR Fourth Age book-verse gapfiller):

The girl went with him and gazed at the clutter on the desk curiously. "What are you writing?" She looked up at the fair-haired elderly hobbit.

From my current version of Edged in Silver (LotR canon-compliant OC story):

As the young woman reached her destination, a hum went up from afar. It rose steadily to a clamour and cheering. She looked over the shrubbery that was the border of the Houses. Two horsemen appeared through the gate to the sixth level, followed by a press of people.

From From the Sidelines (TVD, canon-divergent-after-season-6 OC story):

Claire kept thinking about those words after they had hung up. She recalled what Sheila had told her about her Occult studies class. Most picked it because it seemed cool. Bonnie might have thought the same, but deep down she had begun to believe. After the initial shock wore off, she would take action.

Tagging: @thecharmedburrowspn-files @darknightfrombeyond @bi-ologistofthehills @sunlitscribe @waterloou @asirensrage @stachedocs @bobfloydsbabe @joaquinwhorres @illegalcerebral @bluejay-in-flight @bluebell-winter @darthnell @nejires-hado @carmens-garden @juliaswickcrs, and anyone else who wants to join in the fun! @ me!

[ao3feed-tolkien]

In Theory and Practice Part 2

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/YAaHrup

by ElrondsScribe

Just copy and paste the blurb from Part 1, honestly. These aren’t separate fics, they’re ridiculously large installments of one fic. Sophomore year!

Rating will increase as needed, of course.

Words: 1030, Chapters: 1/?, Language: English

Series: Part 5 of Music School AU

Fandoms: The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (TV 2022)

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Categories: F/F, F/M, M/M, Multi

Characters: Valandil (The Rings of Power), Isildur (Tolkien), Elendil the Tall, Tar-Míriel, Elendil the Tall's Wife, Anárion (Tolkien), Eärien (The Rings of Power), amd many OCs

Relationships: Isildur (Tolkien)/Valandil (The Rings of Power), Elendil the Tall/Elendil the Tall’s Wife/Tar-Míriel

Additional Tags: Background Poly, Alternate Universe - College/University, Alternate Universe - Reincarnation

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/YAaHrup

[incarnation-of-rasputin]

1, 2, 7, 30 for the oc ask thing cuz I’m curious lol

Ooooh thanks! I’ll answer these for Uilos and Anárion :)

1. Do they sleep with a stuffed animal? If they have multiple, who’s the favorite?

Uilos: No, but he does sleep hugging a pillow.

Anárion: He doesn’t sleep with a stuffed animal because he doesn’t have one but he absolutely would if he had one!!!

2. Can they take care of a plant? What about a pet? What about a child?

Uilos: Absolutely not, he grew up as a noble he doesn’t know how to take care of anything himself. He’d be able to learn if he had to, but that would be a rough time.

Anárion: He can take care of plants and pets for sure! Children probably but it hasn’t been tested...

7. Describe them in three words. Now let them describe themself in three words. (Oof this question is hard!!!)

Uilos: Not-at-all-self-reflective, deceptive, sweet; he describes himself as charming, intelligent, flamboyant

Anárion: Stubborn, kind-hearted, naive; he describes himself as kind, supportive, devout

30. What would they do if they knew it would be forgiven?

Uilos: Time to go home!!! (at least, that’s what he would have said 1 day ago in game. A lot has gone wild)

Anárion: He wouldn’t understand what was forgiven. He doesn’t think he’s done anything wrong at this point.

[everythingquenya]

Hiya, I'm a classical / film score / OC score composer and I'm writing an SATB choral piece for the Ainulindale and I'm having trouble understanding the stressed syllables on the words. I know in general the rule is if there's 3 or more syllables you accent the third to last syllable, unless there's an acute accent (which I think doesn't include the fun dots). But I'm not 100% sure and I don't want to write a whole piece with the wrong emphasis on the wrong syllable. Lmk if you have a recording of you reading the Quenya version of the Ainulindale or how to do that! I'm using the one written on https://www.elvish.org/gwaith/ainulindale.htm by Ryszard Derdzinski. Lmk if this is the wrong one XD

Yoooo wow tumblr thank you for never showing me this ask! I hate this hellsite sometimes.

Sorry it took me so long to respond! 🥲

So, according to my books when you have a word with two syllables, then the focus is on the first syllable. E.g. Anor ['a.nor], parma ['par.ma]

With three syllable words there are two options.

A. The second to last syllable is long

In this case the second to last syllable is the main focus. A long syllable contains either a long vowel (á, é, í, o´, ú), a diphtong (ai, oi, ui, au, eu, iu) or multiple consonants after a vowel.

Examples:

Olórin (long vowel: ó)

Úlairi (Diphtong: ai)

Isildur (two consonants after the vowel: ld)

Menelya (the y counts as a consonant: ly)

B. The second to last syllable is short

If the second to last syllable is short, the third to last syllable is emphasized. A short syllable contains a short vowel or one or no consonants.

Examples:

Orome (second to last syllable is -ro: short vowel followed by a consonant)

Anárion (second to last syllable is -ri: short vowel, not followed by a consonant)

By adding endings such as -ndil, -rdur, -rdil, ldur the emphasis can be shifted. Such as the word "isil" (moon, a noun) and "Isildur" (servant of the moon, a name). In "isil" the emphasis is on the first vowel. In "Isildur" the emphasis is on "sil".

Concerning the fun dots, in tengwar the dots and dashes indicate vowels. It's very similar to Arabic in that regard. The larger letters are generally consonants while the dots and dashes are vowels.

I don't have a recording of myself reading the Ainulindale, but I've been speaking it from what I've heard from the movies and listened from songs. There's a German singer/songwriter called Oonagh and a lot of her songs have Quenya in them! Since German pronunciation is very similar to Quenya, that helps quite a bit with pronunciation. Here are three songs of hers that feature quite a bit of Quenya. Song 1. Song 2. Song 3. (You’ll usually have to wait for the chorus, sorry. 😅)

Another thing I would point out is that the elves are very lyrical. They will forgive emphasis if it works better for the song. (At least that's what I remember reading somewhere) I don't think you need to worry to much about emphasis. My personal pet peeve would be pronunciation more than emphasis of the correct syllable.

I really hope this helps and good luck with your project! I'd love to hear it when it's finished! 🥰

[ibrithir-was-here]

Couple of random Second Age Lesbian OCs for you, on the left we have

Vanwatárimë:

Eldest daughter of Tar-Anárion, elder sister of Vanwaheriel and Tar-Súrion. She or her sister should have been the second Ruling Queen of Numenor, but their fear of their Grandmother Tar-Ancalime kept both of them from taking the throne or marrying. Vanwatarime eventually found love with a visiting nisse named Paliscénë

 (Vanwaheriel traveled the North Cape and actually ended up in the household of Soronto, the very man her grandmother got married and bore a child only in order to spite him the crown )

Paliscénë:

An elf maiden of the Second Age, she lived in Lindon, and travelled to Numenor as part of a delegation for High King Gil-Galad, and there met Vanwatárimë. Eventually the two fell in love, and managed to escape from Numenor together back to Lindon.

[arofili]

Line of Elros Edit Series: Appendix E

Continued from Appendix D. This section will contain information on the the Stewards of Gondor.

~~~

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Appendix A: Royalty of Númenor Appendix B: House of Andúnië, Royalty of Arnor Appendix C: Royalty of Gondor Appendix D: Princes of Dol Amroth, Chieftains of the Dúnedain Appendix E: Stewards of Gondor (you are here!)

~~~

STEWARDS OF GONDOR

Are you ready for a bajillion names reused from the First Age?! The Stewards loooved to name their kids after First Age heroes - and I decided that the ladies shouldn’t get left out of that tradition either, so I scoured the family trees of the Three Houses of the Edain for some names to give their wives and daughters :)

Astorion ft. Astorion (OC), Húrin of Emyn Arnen, Idril of Emyn Arnen (OC) Though Astorion himself is an OC, everything about the appointment of the first Steward is canon or strongly implied by canon. The rules surrounding who could be Steward are also canon, though the exact circumstances of how they came about are my headcanon. Húrin of Emyn Arnen was indeed Minardil’s steward, and the stewards were chosen from his House after this, but the details about his role in these two succession crises are all headcanon. The House of Húrin was related to Anárion, though this relation being through one of his daughters is speculation on my part. See the linked Kings for details about the canonicity of their stories.

Pelendur ft. Pelendur, Meleth of Gondor (OC), Vorondil, Anwariel (OC), Mardil Voronwë The details of Pelendur’s friendship with Eärnil, and Eärnil’s ambitions toward royalty, are my headcanon; check out Eärnil’s edit for more on that. The conflict between Eärnil and Arvedui is canon, as is Pelendur’s influence in choosing which would become King. Vorondil’s hunting of the Kine of Araw and making of the Horn of Gondor is canon, though I made up the bit about it being part of a matched pair.

Mardil Voronwë ft. Mardil Voronwë, Anoriel (OC), Eradan, Gilwen of Gondor (OC), Herion, Cadwareth (OC), Belegorn, Lossendil (OC) Mardil’s ascension to power is canon, but the details of Eärnur’s demise, while canon, have been embellished (see his edit for more info on that). Mardil’s work on the calendar is canon, but his wife’s influence on its creation is headcanon. Everything about Eradan, Herion, and Belegorn is headcanon.

Húrin I ft. Húrin I, Beril of Gondor (OC), Niënor of Gondor (OC), Urwen of Gondor (OC), Túrin I All of this is headcanon; we have practically no information about Húrin I save that he had two daughters before Túrin I.

Túrin I ft. Túrin I, Andreth of Gondor (OC), Lalaith of Gondor (OC), Nellas of Gondor (OC), Níniel of Gondor (OC), Meldis of Gondor (OC), Hador of Gondor All we know about Túrin I is that he had “several daughters” with his first wife, and was the first (and only) leader of Gondor to take a second wife, with whom he had a son. Since Hador was born a year after Túrin became Steward, I think it’s reasonable to assume he had to wait ’til he was in charge to change the law to allow him to remarry, but that’s not canon. All other details are headcanon. Sorry for making him a massive dick. Túrin Turambar deserves better than being remembered like this; I’ll try to make up for it when I get to Túrin II.

Hador ft. Hador of Gondor, Maerion (OC), Barahir of Gondor, Taweneth (OC), Dior of Gondor, Rían of Gondor, Bellmund (OC), Denethor I Hador did canonically add a leap day to the calendar, and he was also the last Steward to have the “lifespan of a full Dúnadan.” Dior canonically had no children and was succeeded by his nephew. I made up literally everything else here. I’m baffled by the decision of Rían to name her son after an Avarin king when all the other names in her family that were taken from the First Age are from the Edain and the occasional Noldor or Sindar royal; there’s no reason why she would have picked that name, so I tried to give her one here.

Denethor I ft. Denethor I, Felucaliel (OC), Lalwen of Gondor (OC), Emeldir of Gondor (OC), Steward Boromir Denethor canonically had two daughters before Boromir; I changed one to be nonbinary. It was also during his rule that the Watchful Peace ended. Everything else is headcanon.

Steward Boromir ft. Steward Boromir, Amathael (OC), Círion, Hirwen of Gondor (OC), Hallas, Thalieth (OC), Húrin II, Beldis of Gondor (OC) Boromir did canonically do all that fighting, though we know nothing about his wife and sibling fighting with him; his decline after receiving a Morgul wound is also canon. Almost all of Círion’s story is canon. Hallas did indeed come up with the names “Rohan” and “Rohirrim.” Everything else is headcanon.

Belecthor I ft. Belecthor I, Glóredhel of Gondor (OC), Orodreth of Gondor, Morwen of Gondor It’s canon that the Corsairs reared their heads again in this time, but we don’t know of any major battles so I decided a stalemate made sense here. Everything else is headcanon.

Orodreth ft. Orodreth of Gondor, Beleth of Gondor (OC), Ecthelion I The only canon thing here is that Ecthelion did rebuild the White Tower. Also, you know I’m gonna make all the childless Stewards gay and/or aspec :p

Morwen ft. Morwen of Gondor, Dammoron (OC), Adanel of Gondor (OC), Faeleth (OC), Egalmoth of Gondor All of this is headcanon, except that Morwen was canonically the grandmother of Egalmoth.

Egalmoth ft. Eglamoth of Gondor, Hareth of Gondor (OC), Beren of Gondor, Gildis of Gondor (OC), Steward Beregond, Bregil of Gondor (OC), Belecthor II, Thúliel (OC), Thorondir, Helheth (OC), Túrin II, Eregil (OC), Turgon of Gondor, Mírdholen (OC) As usual, everything with the women in this edit is headcanon. The wars with the Dunlendings, Corsairs, orcs, etc. are all canon, as is Saruman’s appearance in the narrative. The recovery period after the war has been greatly embellished; everything about Belecthor II and Thorondir is headcanon except for their lifespans and the death of the White Tree (and Belecthor being an only child, weirdly enough that’s specifically noted in canon lol), though I made up the reasoning behind Thorondir’s declaration. Túrin I’s deeds are all canon, though with the exception of the Rohirrim the supporting cast’s involvement is mostly my headcanon. Nothing significant happened during Turgon’s rule except for Sauron’s declaration; his reaction to that event is headcanon.

Ecthelion II ft. Ecthelion II, Narwiel (OC), Denethor II, Taeneth (OC), Beniloth (OC) Everything about Ecthelion and Thorongil/Aragorn is canon (and leaves me wondering if they fucked...) Ecthelion canonically had two unnamed daughters. Taeneth and Beniloth are Sindarin names I adapted from the Quenya “Terenis” and “Vanyalos” given to them in LOTRO; I also poached their backstories from LOTRO. (Disclaimer that I haven’t played the game, I’m getting this all from Tolkien Gateway.)

Denethor II ft. Denethor II, Finduilas of Dol Amroth, Boromir, Faramir This is pretty much all canon, though details have been embellished here and there.

Faramir ft. Faramir, Éowyn, Elboron, Rohiril (OC), Silevegil (OC), Barahir of Ithlien All of this is canon, though it’s been slightly condensed, up until the details about Faramir and Éowyn’s descendants. It is canon that Barahir wrote the Tale of Aragorn and Arwen, but we don’t know if he was the son of Elboron or of some unknown sibling of Elboron. I ship Elboron and Eldarion, so I chose to go with the latter possibility :)

~~~

My Peoples of Arda Edit Series continues with the Three Houses of the Edain Edit Series!

[anarinya]

Hello there! This is an independent, selective RP blog for ANÁRION SON OF ELENDIL from Tolkien’s Legendarium. I am book-based with capricious influence from Rings of Power and I will default to roleplaying within book timelines, characters and events unless otherwise discussed. I will also not be doing crossovers or modern AU’s.

I go by ERRAN and they/them pronouns. I am 27 and I live in the UK so GMT time. Feel free to IM me, send me asks and whatever else if we’re mutuals! Plotting always welcome. Other blogs are my main  BOROMIR II (that I follow back from), THEODRED SON OF THEODEN and my CUIVIENEN ELF OC.

Mana tárë antuva nin Ilúvatar, Ilúvatar, enyárë i metta pella, írë Anarinya queluva?

What will the Father, O Father, give me in that day beyond the end when my Sun faileth?

[celebrimbooooor]

OH and there was some stuff you told me via text about what the OCs do after Númenor/into their old age (and actually how they die) that would be cool to share if you're up for it

Y E A H my KIDS

First of all, not to spoil anything but they're getting off the island. I couldn't bear to kill any of them (yet). Unfortunately as the years go on they do not remain close friends, as they do not all live in the same place.

1) Rûkh travels. He journeys first to Harad and finds that he hardly remembers it--his memory must have faded substantially, or the place itself must have changed substantially. The people there have not met Sauron as he has, and they fear Sauron in a different way. Rûkh leaves soon after discovering that sections of the population worship Sauron, and their numbers seem to be growing. He is tired of fear, yet it surrounds him. Where he ends up is uncertain, as he travels south, beyond the borders of what the Elves and Men of the West consider their world--much farther than the southern borders of Harad itself.

2) Gimil finds herself in Minas Anor, and serves on Anárion's council for many years. She remains in contact with Algar, who lives in Minas Ithil and serves a similar political role. From their correspondence she acquires volumes to create a library: at first exclusively political and economic in nature, and eventually expanding to include more literary texts. Many of these do not survive the siege. She almost does.

3) Khibil and Azrîya (forever a unit) are married in Minas Anor shortly after its founding. Azrîya misses the ocean, and immerses herself in the study of it, even from far away. She enjoys sailing on the river, for it is the closest she can get to that feeling. Khibil studies theology, tired of being afraid of what she might find beyond the world. When the city is attacked later that Age, she is a widow. She regrets not fighting in Númenor when she could have (so she thinks)--so instead of shutting down, she fights.

4) Algar serves on Isildur's council in Minas Anor, compiling records of political debate and recording a history of the Age as he experienced it. This calms him, though the creeping dread he has felt for much of his life does not disappear, and the shadow growing close to them only worsens it. He serves in the Last Alliance, as most did. From where he stands on the battlefield, he sees the former high priest--now covered head to toe in armor--brought to his knees, his body turning to dust. This is the last sight Algar sees, and he smiles.

[annabawritersdream]

TOLKIEN OC WEEK 2024-Day 7

Prompt: Freeform

Title: Güzel Kardeşim (My beautiful sister)

Synopsis: Anárion Lives! AU

Anárion visits his family in Ithilien and spends some time with his little sister Éowyn.

Words: (to be updated once I post it on AO3)

GLOSSARY (VALARIN):

Anárion Abim geldi: my brother Anárion has arrived/is here.

Abi (short form of ağabey): older brother

Abicim: my beloved brother.

Annem yok: no mamma

Neden annemi görmek istemiyorsun?: why don't you want to see mom?

Annem beni sevmiyor: my mom doesn't like me.

Söz mü?: promise?

Söz: promise.

ÉOWYN'S BABY TALK=> She cannot pronunce her R's well (she's not even four, she'll learn)

Güzel Kardeşim

Year 31 of the Fourth Age of the Sun, Ithilien.

"Please, my lady, come back here!"

Esme, the children's governess, ran after the child as the lady Éowyn jumped into her brother's arms.

"Anárion Abim geldi!"

She squealed as he kissed the top of her head and held her tightly. "My angel, look at you. You're so beautiful." He smiled politely. "Good morning, Esme."

The governess bowed. "My lord."

"Would you mind if I stole her?"

"Oh no, not at all. She's been asking about you ever since we received word that you were coming. We were not expecting you."

"My grandfather has been tutoring me in politics and law for the past six months," he explained. "While I am so grateful for the help with which he kindly provides me and for all the wisdom he constantly feels compelled to share, I simply could not endure yet another month of endless lessons pertaining matters in which I have no particular interest. Therefore I...notified him I would spend some time with my mother and my siblings here in Emyn Arnen. He did not seem pleased, but he did not object either."

"Oh, my lord, if your mother heard about it..."

"I am sure she would understand. I have not visited her yet. Is she in good health?"

"Given her condition, I would say she is faring better than expected."

"Her condition?"

Esme frowned. "Have you not been told? Lord Eönwë had a letter sent to you several weeks ago."

"I received no letter."

"Oh...that is strange." She smiled. "Though it certainly explains why we did not hear from you. Your mother was so distressed she wept for a week. We feared she might lose the child."

"Esme?"

"Yes, my lord?"

"How many children do you think..."

The governess lowered her head. "It is not my place to speak of these things, my lord. It is a private matter and..."

"I am scared, Esme. What if...?"

"Oh, my lord, such things should not even be on your mind. Your mother is a strong woman. You have no reason to be anxious. Lord Eönwë will protect her. Do you doubt him?"

"Of course not. How could I? He raised me. He's my father. I trust him and, most importantly,I love him. He is the only father I remember, the only father I have ever had. But..."

"Do you like my hair, Abi?"

Éowyn had been tugging at Anárion's arm and was now pulling his hand. "Play, Abi."

"We'll play, my angel. And your hair is indeed beautiful."

She pulled his hand. "I run, you catch me."

Anárion sighed and caressed her cheek. "We will play later, is that alright? I would like to see mamma first. I say hi to her and then I come back here and we play. What do you say?"

"Awaight."

"Alright?"

Éowyn nodded. "I want to see mamma too!"

"Come with me then."

Éowyn raised her arms. "Up."

Anárion picked her up at once. "As my lady commands."

She giggled and nestled against him. "Abicim."

Esme glanced at the siblings and turned away. "Oh dear, I am going to cry." She took a deep breath. "May I talk to you privately, my lord?"

"What is it that you need to tell me? I should not like to leave my sister alone."

"What I am about to tell you concerns your sister and it is not for so young a child to hear."

"Very well. Who will attend on her whilst we speak? You are her only governess I know of."

"Many ladies happen to be fond of your sister. With your permission, I shall ask one of them to..."

"You shall not. I will not leave her in the hands of people I do not know. Must we really have this conversation? Please turn around and look at me. I care not whether your eyes are teary or puffy. Eru knows Gondor is in dire need of people capable of showing emotion."

Éowyn wrapped her tiny arms around her brother's neck. "I am bored, can we play? I changed my mind, no mamma."

Anárion briefly stared at Esme before he focused on his sister. "Do you no longer want to see mamma?"

"Annem yok."

Anárion frowned as he kissed her cheek. "What's wrong, angel?"

He ran his fingers through her hair. "Neden annemi görmek istemiyorsun?"

"Annem beni sevmiyor."

"Why would you say that? It is not true."

"It is. She never plays with me. She only yells at me. She never wants me around."

She clutched to him and her blue eyes—her father's eyes—filled with tears. "Mamma is mean."

"Would you like me to talk to her?"

Éowyn shook her head. "I want papa. And I want you to play with me. Papa had a big crown made for me. Want to see?"

"Do show me."

"YES!"

He put her down and watched her run to her bedroom. He turned to Esme. "Do speak. What is it that you wished to tell me? It has to do with my mother, does it not? Please send someone to keep my sister company. She needs to be watched. She's very young and..."

He was interrupted by a sharp cry. Both Esme and Anárion rushed into Éowyn's bedroom. The child was sitting on the floor, a split headpiece in her hands.

"It bwoke!!! Papa will be mad at me! I am sowwy!"

Anárion hugged her. "It is alright, my angel. It is alright."

"Papa gave it to me."

"I know." He played with her hair. "I know. It is alright."

"Papa gave me a necklace for my birthday, but I loved my big crown."

"It was a pretty tiara, my angel. Do not worry though. I am sure papa will have another one made. He will have countless bracelets, necklaces and rings made for his little princess."

"No, not a pwincess!" she retorted with a frown, "his sunshine. He always calls me güneşim, which means my sunshine."

"You are his sunshine. You are the sunshine of us all."

"But you said I am your angel."

"Yes," he smiled, "you are also my angel. Would you like to give me the tiara so that we can put it away?"

Éowyn hesitantly handed it to him and, in turn, he gave it to Esme. "Take care of it, will you?"

Esme bowed her head and curtsied before she left. Éowyn's glazed eyes widened.

"Where is she going? That's my crown! Is she thwowing it away? Papa gave it to me!"

"You cannot wear it, my angel. It is a beautiful tiara but..."

"I want it back, Abi. Can I have it back?"

"Wyn..."

"Ne olur..."

He helped her up. "I'll see what I can do."

"Would you like to see my necklace?"

"Of course. I would love to."

She let go of his hand and rushed to open a wooden trunk. She pulled out a jewelry box and gave it to her brother. Anárion carefully lifted the top and peeked inside.

"A golden necklace?"

Éowyn nodded. "Can you help me wear it?"

"As my lady commands."

He did as he was asked and the little girl hinted at a meek smile.

"Are you sad because of the tiara?"

Éowyn nodded. "Mamma also makes me sad."

Anárion hugged her. "I will talk to her."

"Söz mü?"

"Söz, güzel kardeşim. Söz."

He caressed her cheek and kissed her forehead. The first time he had beheld her face, he had sworn he would protect her. He would keep her safe. He would protect her from everyone. If necessary, he would protect her even from her own family. From her mother. From their mother.

Enjoy this cute little edit I made, starring Archie Barnes as Anárion and Ayda Acar as Éowyn "Wyn".

Isn't she just adorable?

Additional tags:

@tolkienocweek

@lucifers-legions

@emmanuellececchi

@evenstaredits

@saurongorthaur9

@a-world-of-whimsy-5

@cilil

[irisseireth]

Elendur is an adult by the time they leave Númenor lol, that's another reason I don't think it's gonna work on the show. And Anárion's son Meneldil should be a baby but he was also born in Númenor, and that seems even more unlikely, given we haven't seen Anárion yet. I wonder if they'll do a timeskip anyway.

I have my own headcanons about their wives and sons, I even had an OC daughter of Elendil that is quite different from Eärien, and I'm kinda worried Eärien won't make it to Middle Earth. But yes I'm looking forward to seeing what they do with them!

x

@irisseireth FINALLY 😭😭😭 twenty years later, justice for our boy.

i do wonder if we will get anything of gladden fields, i think it's possible for the tolkien estate to grant use of certain things outside of the hobbit/lotr/the appendices. imo it's totally reasonable the estate would allow them to use that part of unfinished tales, but idk if the writers are interested in carrying isildur's story that far or closing it out in that way, we're too far out from the end for me to really speculate how they're interested in handling the specifics. i would imagine they'd like to use it if they can (what a tragic fucking end to a tragic fucking story), but who knows, it could go any number of ways.

the way i see it: watching gladden fields go down would completely ruin me as a person, but also, watching gladden fields go down would be the most cathartic experience of my life, so...it's a win-lose/win-lose situation lol.

[sheisthesxnlight-archived]

vaOKAY HERE IS A POLL FOR YOU ALL !!!

WHAT SIDEBLOGS SHOULD BE MOVED OVER TO AURERIEL’S NEW BLOG?

@freyapriestess - Gyda, Priestess of Freya ( Vikings OC )

@jugheadiisms - Jughead from Riverdale

@vitvarg - Jon Snow

@lcrdofdexth - Mandos

@thandcr - Anárion  Tolkien OC

@maidencfice - Gilraen Tolkien OC

@ongurth - Gwathadon Tolkien OC

[annabawritersdream]

They're basically twins. They could totally be father and son.

Anárion lives!? Possibly...maybe...somehow...

[annabawritersdream]

Currently writing a snippet about these two because I really need to start developing characters that are not Elenwë and/or their family. My second favorite Maiarin/Human couple. Ëonwë's youngest general and Enna's bestie.

Starring William Moseley as Erionwë & Pelin Karahan as Elarien. I still haven't thought about a ship name for these two lovely babies, but I think Elarië would be a decent one? Erionwen?

I also changed things up and decided Giluen will be their daughter. She was originally supposed to Enna's daughter from her marriage to Elphirion (and Anárion's twin sister), but I think she works much better as Erionwë's only daughter (I don't think he and Elarien will have more).

That's my faceclaim for baby/young Giluen and I think she's perfect. She looks like Elarien (I think it kind of helps that the actress plays a young version of Pelin's character in her show). She obviously gets her hair color from her dad. Though she's half-Maia and half-Human, she is included in my Gondorian ocs profiles.

That's it for today's PSA!