#yes Elrond wouldn't think it's a good idea

[eri-pl]

Consider: an AU in which Numenor has a lot of technological progress and Isildur returns on a stream ship, not a galleon or whatever. The progress is still uneven, military-focused and haired by wars, but in late Third Age, at the council of Elrond "send the Ring into space" is a real option.

So they send the Ring into space.

In an unmanned probe, early KSP style.

Which totally wouldn't help Morgoth return, or possess Sauron, or anything.

(I know, it had to be destroyed because Sauron was winning anyway, even without it. He had armies and such. But now Aragorn has tanks and planes. )

[princessofgondor]

early hours // boromir x fem!reader 🔞

As the only woman in the Fellowship, you often struggled to find privacy, and had taken to bathing in a nearby stream during the early hours of the morning. One particular morning, however, it seemed that one of your comrades had a similar idea.

Smut (18+ ONLY), Fellowship!Reader, Comrades to Lovers, Fluff, Mutual Pining. 3037 Words. Author has only seen the movies, so please forgive any mistakes/inaccuracies! Also, it’s my first time writing for Boromir 🙈

***

You weren’t sure how long ago it had been since you and the other members of the Fellowship of the Ring had set off from Rivendell. When you were in constant danger from Orcs, Nazgûl, and the elements, it was not exactly a priority to keep track of the days. It was rare that you even got a moment to relax outside of rough camping in the woods - which wasn’t exactly relaxing in the first place.

And being the only woman in the Fellowship, it could be difficult to find privacy. Your comrades meant well, but sometimes they could be overbearing. You appreciated their concern, but you could take care of yourself - if you hadn't been able to handle yourself, Elrond wouldn't have allowed you to be part of the mission, would he?

So, to find your privacy, you had taken to rising earlier than everyone else and bathing in a nearby stream - if one was available. Those were your only moments of solace, and you had to admit, that it was nice to clean yourself of the grime and sweat from trekking through the woods. Mainly for reasons of comfort and ease of movement, of course, though there were other reasons that you liked to be clean - reasons that were really quite embarrassing. Reasons that pertained to not wanting to feel unattractive in front of a certain Gondorian captain.

Really, with the fate of all Middle Earth at stake, you were worried about not looking presentable enough for a man? Was that truly what was important right now? But the irrationality of your reasoning didn’t make it any less true, no matter how irritated it made you feel towards yourself.

If you were honest with yourself, you hadn’t been that impressed by Boromir when the two of you had first met in Rivendell. He was handsome, yes, but there was no shortage of good-looking men in the world. At first, he he seemed like nothing but another warrior concerned with nothing but honour and glory. It wasn’t until later that your feelings for him began to grow.

You soon found that Boromir - while indeed a brave and talented warrior - was also gentle and caring, and that was what had drawn you to him. He protected you and the other members of the Fellowship like he would lay down his life for you, and the way he laughed and played with the Hobbits was awfully sweet. You went from thinking nothing much of him to beginning to fall for him at a speed that was incredibly surprising to you, as it had never happened before.

You were thinking of Boromir as you stripped off your clothes and armour, leaving them in a pile on the bank of the stream close enough for you to reach when you needed them, but not so close that they would easily get wet. First, you dipped your toes into the cool water, then quickly submerged yourself. You sighed contentedly, moving deeper into the water and beginning to wash the dirt from your skin. It was a simple pleasure, but a pleasure nonetheless.

So relaxed were you - which was dangerous, as you were out in the wild and needed to be constantly vigilant - that you didn’t even notice that you were not alone in the stream, and remained completely ignorant until you heard a shocked voice uttering your name. Your eyes flew open to see Boromir standing before you in the water, completely bare like you.

"C-Captain Boromir!" you almost shrieked, your face flushing deeply and your arms raising to cover your chest. Your eyes wanted to trail downwards, to finally catch a glimpse of the muscular physique you knew was there - that which you had fantasised about as you watched him teaching Merry and Pippin how to defend themselves, or as he sparred with Aragorn - beneath the clear water. It took an intense amount of willpower, you successfully fought the urge.

Boromir was embarrassed too, though he wasn't being quite as obvious about it. "Apologies, my lady," he responded, his voice strained. "If I had known that you were bathing too, I would have kept my distance. I promise that it was not my intention to intrude on you." He looked at you as if he were begging you to accept his apology.

A few moments passed, and after the shock had worn off at least a little, you nodded empathetically. "I understand, Captain. You are not that kind of man. I was just shocked, that is all."

Boromir gave you a small smile, clearly relieved by your answer. "I am glad. I would not wish for you to think less of me."

There is no chance of that, you thought to yourself, settling down with your back against a large boulder near the bank of the stream. I think very highly of you indeed... more than you know. Luckily, you still had enough sense to not say such a thing out loud. Boromir’s proximity combined with your mutual nakedness was making you feel weak in the knees, and you didn’t wish to embarrass yourself in front of him anymore than you already had.

Boromir moved in the water, and once again your willpower was tested, finding yourself tempted to peek at his naked body. This time, you indulged yourself a little, looking at him out of the corner of your eye and hoping he wouldn’t notice. Even through your quick, embarrassed glances, you now knew that his physique was just as striking as you had imagined. Your mind began to wander, presenting some tantalising images of feeling his strong muscles beneath your palms, and then of brushing your lips against his chest, hearing his moans above you as you slowly moved lower—

You snapped back into reality rather unceremoniously when you heard Boromir say your name. That was when you realised that your attempts at subtly admiring him had quickly turned into staring, and you had been caught in the act. Your cheeks began to burn with embarrassment, and it took what felt like an eternity for you to be able to meet his gaze once more.

And to your surprise (and delight), when you looked up to Boromir’s face, he didn’t seem disturbed or uncomfortable. Rather he was… smiling? And even better, there was a pale flush on his cheeks that indicated perhaps your admiration was not entirely one-sided.

When he saw your shocked expression, Boromir laughed quietly. "I have been trying to stop myself from staring at you ever since we first met, but now that I know you wish to stare back… perhaps I was worrying over nothing."

"Pardon…?" you stammered out, not trusting your own mind to determine whether this was real or another one of the dreams you’d had about Boromir since meeting him. Though this did feel far more real than any dream or fantasy you’d ever experienced in your life… you could feel the water on your skin, the cool morning breeze, and the heat rushing through your body as Boromir looked at you with darkened eyes.

"I have been admiring you since Rivendell, my lady. I knew right away that you were the most beautiful woman I had ever laid eyes on, and when I got the chance to know you better… I found that you were not only beautiful, but a woman of both gentleness and strength." Boromir looked down, seeming almost bashful, something that you were not expecting of a strong warrior like himself. "You have stolen my heart, in a way no other woman ever has."

"Captain Boromir…" Your eyes were wide as you looked at him, still trying to discern whether this was real or not.

"Please, just call me 'Boromir'. There is no need for such formality between us, especially now." Boromir moved closer, his hand coming up to rest against your cheek. His skin felt warm, and you could feel the callouses on his palm, something you would expect from a lifelong warrior such as himself. But at the same time his touch was so gentle, like you were something precious to him.

Suddenly, you didn’t care whether or not this was a dream - if it was, there was no harm in indulging, and if it wasn’t… well, Boromir wanted you quite obviously. There was no downside to finally allowing yourself to be with this man that you had been pining over.

And so, you closed the gap between the two of you and crashed your lips against his, your fingers tangling in his damp hair. Boromir let out a quiet noise of surprise, but a few seconds later he was reciprocating enthusiastically, kissing you back with a fervour that more than matched your own. One of his strong arms wrapped around your waist to pull you closer, and you couldn’t help but moan softly as you felt your bare skin touch his for the very first time.

"I have been thinking about this since Rivendell," Boromir admitted huskily, pulling away from your lips to press fervent kisses to your jawline. Once he reached just below your ear, he took a moment to gently nip at your earlobe before his lips trailed down the side of your neck. His large hands were now eagerly grabbing at your backside, pulling you even closer to him.

"As have I," you whispered in response. It felt good to finally admit your desires out loud - though it certainly didn't feel better than giving in to them. You could feel Boromir's facial hair scratching against the sensitive skin of your neck as he sucked a mark into it. At this moment, you weren't even considering the idea that someone back at camp might notice it later. You were too focused on the present to even think about the future.

Boromir grinned against your neck, nipping gently as his hands moved - up from your backside to your mid back, before slipping around to the front of your body, and moving higher until he grasped your breasts. "These have been quite the distraction…" You felt his thumbs grazing over your nipples, making them harden beneath his touch, and you let out a gasp. "You’re even more beautiful than I imagined…"

One of his hands left your breast to slide down your stomach until he cupped your mound, brushing his fingers against your clit, while other hand continued to toy with your nipple. Your legs spread a little further on instinct, and you braced yourself against the smooth boulder you were leaning against.

"That’s it, my darling, don’t be shy. Open yourself up to me," Boromir whispered lowly in your ear, as he slipped one finger inside of you rather easily, the pad of his thumb beginning to slowly rub circles over your clit. You let out a quiet curse, which seemed to amuse him judging by his smile.

Boromir kept his eyes on you as he continued to touch you, wanting to see exactly how you reacted. You mesmerised him when you were fully clothed walking through the woods, so seeing you completely bare, writhing beneath his touch? You were a temptation that he could not ignore. Once he could tell you were beginning to teeter on the edge, he pulled his hand from you, and your eyes snapped open, disappointed by the lack of stimulation.

"I would like to taste you," Boromir told you, making your heart flutter even more. You had imagined more than once having his head buried between your legs as he lapped at you until you could hardly speak. "But as there is no way for me to do that right now without risking us being seen, I suppose it will have to wait for another time."

Another time, he said. He already wanted to do this again. That fact excited you beyond belief, that this could happen more than once. You hadn’t even finished doing it the first time, but you were already excited for the next.

Boromir could see the excitement behind your eyes, and he grinned at your enthusiasm. "For now…" He didn’t need to finish that thought for you to know what he meant. He kissed you again, more sweetly this time, and you felt his hands on your thighs, manoeuvring them so they were wrapped around his waist. You could feel his hardness against you, rubbing against your core, and you practically collapsed into his arms.

"Are you ready?" Boromir asked gently, looking into your eyes, his own gaze filled with both adoration and desire.

"Yes," you told him softly, sounding almost desperate. "Please."

That was all he needed to hear. Using his hold on your waist, Boromir pulled you down onto him, slowly burying himself inside of you. Both of you let out groans, and he pressed his forehead to yours as he stayed still, allowing both of you to adjust to the new sensation.

"You feel incredible," he murmured brokenly, his eyes squeezed shut. The tone in his voice made it sound as if he were struggling to keep himself together, like you felt so good that if he didn’t focus properly, he would fall apart in an instant. It made you feel strangely powerful that you were able to affect a man like him in such a way. "You’ll be the death of me…"

The two of you stayed frozen for a few more moments, until you started to become impatient and whispered "go on" against his lips. And as soon as you gave the signal, Boromir began to move, drawing out of you before pushing himself deep inside again, almost painfully slow.

He was big, certainly thicker than anything you’d experienced before, and there was a stretch that stung a little at the beginning. It faded quickly however, and it wasn’t long before you had your face buried in his neck as you panted and moaned. Boromir’s fingertips dug into your hips, definitely hard enough to leave bruises but not enough for you to care. How could you care right now, anyway? Your mind was so addled by the pleasure you were feeling that you barely even remembered where you were.

As his hips moved against yours, Boromir’s hands were everywhere, almost like he was trying to memorise every inch of your body using only his sense of touch. Your own hands grasped onto his shoulders, occasionally moving downwards so you could run your hands over his toned torso, and making him gasp softly against your skin. He began to move faster, and as a result your moans grew louder and more frequent.

Boromir knew that it wasn’t safe for you to be so loud - though your pretty moans were driving him crazy - as anyone could hear and come to investigate, whether that was one of their comrades or someone more unsavoury. Rather than tell you to quiet down, however, he kissed you again, swallowing each and every noise that wanted to escape you. This also had the added benefit of keeping him quiet as well, because he could feel his own willpower slipping.

Again, his pace increased, and you were barely even able to think anymore. Boromir could tell that you were close, and oh, how he wanted to see you fall over the edge. Wanting to make sure he saw it before meeting his own end, his hand slipped between your bodies to rub at your clit again, while the other toyed with your nipple. You tightened around him and he doubled his efforts, bringing his lips close to your ear. "I can feel that you’re close, my darling… let go, I want to feel you come undone for me…"

Almost as if you were waiting for his permission, you immediately fell apart once he said the word, trembling violently in his embrace as you called out his name. By some miracle, Boromir was quick enough to crash his lips against yours once more to muffle the sound, as he continued to fuck you through your climax.

Boromir tried to hold out as long as he could, but soon enough he faltered. With a groan against your lips he let go too, spilling himself inside of you before pressing his forehead against yours once more. Both of you were panting, your bodies shaking slightly as you recovered from your shared experience, holding onto each other for dear life.

"You know…" you began breathlessly, once you had recovered enough to be able to speak again. "I think that was the best bath I’ve ever had…"

Boromir grinned widely, peppering kisses on your cheek before planting one on the tip of your nose. "Glad to be of service, my lady," he said in a teasing tone, but you could tell that he was being genuine. You placed your hand on his cheek, brushing your nose against his and then gently kissing his lips, much more chastely than the previous kisses you had shared.

The two of you stayed like that for a few more minutes, revelling in being so close to each other now that you knew that you were not alone in your feelings. After a while you pulled away from each other, making sure to wash the sweat that had formed on your bodies from your earlier activities.

"We should return to camp soon. The others might wake and notice that we’re missing," Boromir said solemnly, knowing that duty called for you both, even if he would love to stay here with you forever. You nodded, and the two of you waded out of the water, drying yourselves and getting dressed.

Once the two of you were looking presentable again, Boromir took your hand in his, looking into your eyes with a rather vulnerable expression. "I hope… this will not be our last encounter?" he asked, a subtly pleading tone to his voice, which made your heart melt. This was real, he truly did care for you.

"It will not be," you replied, a small smile playing on your lips, and the two of you returned to camp - having to invent a story to tell the other members of the Fellowship when they asked what you and Boromir were doing alone together so early in the morning.

[rivendell-poet]

Aww thank you, but the idea mostly stemmed from your lovely writing :) it has also been living rent-free in my mind for quite a while and I just simply had to share it with my favourite LOTR writer <3

Speaking of which, another idea was that Aragorn definitely would want reader to get along well with Arwen, because he wouldn't want anything more than for his two favourite people in Middle Earth to be friends. Reader at first is a bit nervous at meeting such a famous and well reputed half-elf, especially because she's the lover of their older brother figure (I wouldn't be surprised if they consulted Legolas on how to make a good first impression with elves ahaha)

But I can imagine reader being really eager to impress Arwen with their creativity and incredible wealth of knowledge, while also internally panicking if they were a bit too suave and exuberant for a first meeting/hangout. While Arwen merely smiles at their charm and instantly sees why Aragorn would view them as a younger sibling. She probably also thinks that reader is somewhat similar to Elrohir, which further strengthens the sibling-like bond the pair is yet to share. Bonus points is that Elrond likes reader (platonically ofc) for being rather mature and intelligent at such a young age.

Though if reader meets the twins, Elrond might just get a migraine because Elrohir's cunning + reader's mischievous creativity = unpredictable chaos /hj

-💍 anon

I'm so sorry for not responding - but thank you so much!! A favourite?? That seriously means so much to me, and I really can't thank you enough <3

Aragorn and you both arrange to meet with your separate bodies at the same time, just walk into each other like '0.0' and are so confused. But oh well, what were you supposed to do? He's open about it and so happy that you care - finds it very sweet but wouldn't tease.

Arwen & Elrond certainly like you - they're very lovely about it. Arwen somehow has a stash of small sweets which she will offer, no I do not take feedback (but I do take suggestions as to what they are). She has accidentally called you by one of the twin's names, even if they're not remotely similar. Elrond didn't even register it as odd for a solid six seconds.

And yes!! Twins as brothers/chaotic cousins are the best versions of the twins.

Thanks so much for the ask again anon, it's always such a pleasure to talk to you/whenever you appear in the inbox. ❤️❤️❤️ - Poet

[runawaymun]

this ask game is so cool! if this isn't too much, 1, 4, 20, and 23? and maybe 9 if you'd like? :>

1. Is there a favorite character or title you enjoy writing for the most?

Easily Elrond. He just comes so naturally to me and I find him so comforting to write. Nothing puts me in a better mood than writing some Elrond fanfic! I've also started poking at some Baizhu stuff when all my other projects are done for the day. He's from Genshin Impact and of course I imprinted on him because he's a very similar character to Elrond. Self-sacrificing healer who cares about literally everyone around him and spends his whole life trying to heal and protect others. Good dad Baizhu. <3 He's a bit more morally complicated and definitely has something sinister about him (unlike Elrond), but...mostly he's good. He can just go from pharmacist to harmacist in about 2 seconds flat, but honestly that's part of the appeal. Plus he's chronically ill, so...haha yeah. He comes very easily to me on the page and feels super natural.

4.  Where did you get your inspiration from?

I really don't know. Scenes and characters come full-formed in my head and won't leave me alone until I start chasing them around with a pen and paper just so I can feel some semblance of peace and sanity again. I often also get inspiration just by talking to my friends and going "wouldn't it be absolutely fucked up if...?" or, "wouldn't it be really cute if...?" or, "wouldn't it be so cool if...?" etc etc.

20. What’s one thing you want your readers to know about you?

Answered very longwindedly here :) thank you for asking!

23.   Most memorable review/comment on a fic?

Answered here, thank you!!

9.    Care to share a sneak peek of a WIP?

From And we are, an atom and a star:

“What does it feel like?” Elrond asks softly at last. At some point he had tucked his knees up to his chest in the chair, and now he cradles his coffee cup in his hands: a warm, grounding comfort.  There is curiosity swimming beneath the surface, Celebrimbor is happy to see. Elrond has not rejected the idea.  “It feels like…the first few glasses of a good wine,” he decides to say. “I feel happy, and relaxed, and very safe. You know how fast and loud my mind is,” this is said with a smile. Elrond has heard it firsthand many times. Celebrimbor goes on: “It’s like stepping into a quiet room to get away from a too-stimulating party. It’s a sense of focus. None of my cares and worries matter. I am at peace. There is a sense of…security, especially with you, for I can be entirely myself with no fear of what anyone else may think. Does that make sense?”  “I— I made you feel safe?”  “Yes, Elrond.” Celebrimbor reaches for his free hand again. “You did. You do. I felt very well taken care of during the game, and after it.”   A smile finally ghosts across Elrond’s mouth. It’s a relief to see it.

writing ask game

[greypetrel]

Iron Bull and I’m pretty sure you said Tolkien too?? If so, Elrond and Tommy Bombadilly —Koko

Hi Koko!

Somehow I knew you would have been asking Bull xP Just a sixth sense! And yes I said Tolkien to! :3

The Iron Bull:

First impression: I remember I was caught for the character design, the visible imperfections and how he's not canonically handsom... And yet he counts as he is. After the design, I was... A little taken aback by him admitting that oh yes he's a spy and he will spy on you. Like... What? Are you sure you want to tell me, man? xD Instant interest.

Impression now: I know he has flaws and that by all means he's the one person you shouldn't be trusting in all the games. But, he's the huge mom friend, which is also why he's so good at what he does if you ask me. I think he's the better liar because he will admit he's lying... And still will make you forget he is. But yeah, I haven't yet played with a character who wouldn't save the Chargers, and so he could go and live his best life free of being the biggest mother hen ever.

Favorite moment: He brought Dorian's handkerchief for him because he knows he would have forgotten. Big mother hen. No, also the way he just looks at Krem after his personal mission and just... "Never mind, you're doing fine". Basically, whenever he lets himself show he's a big big softie. Also him carrying Sera on his shoulders in battle, yelling "Mayhem!".

Idea for a story: As for Dorian, I'd love love love to write, sooner or later, some expansion of this ficlet and expand that dynamic. I'd also seriously love to read something about him and Krem learning to work together. Some Chargers origin story.

Unpopular opinion: Again, he's another character who doesn't betray you, in my opinion. Even if you sacrifice the Chargers, in Trespasser... He told you from the start he was a spy working for the Qun, right? He was always very open about him being Ben Hassrath, Gatt told you he was called "Liar". You know he lies. As much as you know that Varric lies. Bull's just better at making you forget but... Is it really a betrayal if you were told whose side he was really on from the start? If you were really told he never liked the Tal Vashoth as a concept, if you ask him about Seheron? Not a betrayal, you just forget he was never on your side, if you cut away the one reason he had to change his loyalties (yes I'm including if he's in a romance with either the Inquisitor or Dorian. I like his character so much because a romance is not enough to make him change his mind and become something he clearly say he hates. His men, the life he build for himself, relationships he grew in years are, and if you take that away... He may call you Kadan, you're still just one person and love is not enough on its own.)

Favorite relationship: Him and the Chargers, hands down. They were collectively his way to express himself and find himself and heal after the Horrors, and he's just... I don't know you can see he struggles to give back what he got and it's just so precious.

Favorite headcanon: Plus size, soft bellied Bull still lives rent free in my head. As above, Bull the mama hen taking care of the inner circle. I also still remember Bull the HR manager in Skyhold that @shivunin devised and I had to draw and... Yes.

Elrond:

First impression: I remember I was suspicious of him at first because I already saw the Matrix, and he was the villain, so at 9 I thought that he must have been evil there too. xD

Impression now: I have distinct opinions on book and movie Elrond. I love the first trilogy dearly, but amongst the choices they did I like less and less, the "Let's make Elrond a helicopter dad" is the one that leaves me MEH. But that's on me, the "star-crossed lovers" is a trope that I have extremely little patience for. Still the way he just looks at Aragorn in Minas Tirith, moved and in happy tears... Aaaaaw. I love him I LOVE HIM. and I love how he was written in Rings of Power, give me more Elrond content please, he has so much to give as a character, think of what he has seen!

Favorite moment: The patience and restraint he showed in not kicking Isildur in the volcano with a vengeance. Respect, bro, I would have tossed the jock right into cursing his name and calling him for the asshole that he is. And in Rings of Power, the heart-to-heart talks he has with Durin.

Idea for a story: More Elrond being the weird uncle for Durin and Disa's children. More Elrond dealin with three children on his own. More Elrond and Elros dealing with what the fuck happened to his parents Oh ok now mom is a seagull that's... fine.

Unpopular opinion: I like a lot how he was portrayed in Rings of Power. Yes included his haircut, let him have his Patrick Schwayze phase.

Favorite relationship: Him and Arwen and him and Durin.

Favorite headcanon: We all know he's a big softie when it comes to his children, right? And to children in general. I picture Elladan, Elrohir and Arwen doing shenanigans when they were little, and him... Just sighing and telling them to go to their room, totally unable to even go as far as grounding them. Arwen looked at him with those big blue eyes and he just... Couldn't do anything else.

Tom Bombadil:

First impression: Hey dol, Merry dol! / Ring a dong dillo 🎶 I think I wasn't really understanding what was going on, but I was 9 and I enjoyed the little shenanigan with this weird person who had a wife he loved and sung a catchy song. I didn't question him that much.

Impression now: Still as above, I like him being there, just to show the Hobbits that the world isn't all dark and evil, there is something good to fight for. LOTR is about hope and finding hope when everything around you is dark, and he just does that. If you just go with the flow and don't question him much, take him as just "a quirk", there are some lovely descriptions to be found and a lovely, lovely way to see nature. (which again, is such an important theme in Tolkien's work!)

Favorite moment: That fucking catchy song stays in my head for LONG. Right now I'm humming it. Tom Bom, jolly Tom, Tom Bombadillo! 🎶

Idea for a story: A meeting between him and the Ents. Which will be... 1000 pages of nothing at all. But come on. It'll be fun.

Unpopular opinion: As above, he's not evil incarnate and pointless in the story. He's a moment of breath with the purpose to remember that the world isn't all scary and that there is some mystery to behold, that doesn't require an explanation, that would make everything worse if he was explained.. There's good and there's light... And there's always something to look at in wonder in the world.

Favorite relationship: He and Goldberry are the ultimate couple.

Favorite headcanon: I think I read somewhere a theory according to whom he's really a Valar? I think he was Aule and Goldberry Yavanna in disguise? Well, Tom Bombadil a Valar is an headcanon I stan. I don't remember where I read it or if my brain made it up right now, but still. (... I could keep the idea for my fic tho. MMMMMH.)

[mossy-thing]

Here since I'm very excited that you're excited about it, have what I have for one section sketched-out so far as a...treat? Does it count as a treat if it's awful? XD

CHAPTER #?: GONDOR

The moaning is the worst part. It ought to be the stink of death; the stink of rot, rising outside the city (and, though no one wants to admit it, steadily growing within its white walls as well). But it is not: stink is just stink, and rot is just rot. One can become used to the stink.

Faramir does not think that he will ever get used to the moans.

Bit of scene-setting in Minas Tirith, with Faramir thinking of his brother off on a mission to Rivendell. He wonders if they should have sent someone sooner, wonders if he'd argued with his father a little less if that would have helped (or if he should have argued more).

He wonders if it's already too late, with the moans inside the city now. He wonders if he should try the p-network again, see if that new moonstone amplifier will boost the signal enough for him to get a text through to his brother. Wonders if he ought to try and call Boromir back to Minas Tirith while there is still something left to save.

He wonders if Boromir might be safer outside of Gondor, far away from the charnel house of the White City.

The moaning is getting louder.

Faramir puts his phone down. He picks up his sword.

(end chapter)

No. You. Did. Not.

I'll have you know that this was the best thing I could have woken up to today, and the noise I made upon seeing it sounded similar to the one of a dying rat.

Absolutely yes this is a treat what are you talking about!! And I have questions!

First off, is this loosely based on the events of the Fellowship? Because Boromir, Gimli and Gloin are all on the road, on their way to Rivendell (at least I think that Gimli and Gloin are going there??), so they're gonna have the zombie apocalypse equivalent of the Council of Elrond there, right?

Is Gollum patient zero who escaped quarantine in Mirkwood? Is Frodo the immune one like Ellie in the last of us and they have to bring him someplace to get a cure?

Also, when will Gloin go full zombie mode? Because it would be really funny if they were talking about how they're gonna stop this from spreading further and suddenly a rabid dwarf tries to chew an old mans arm off.

(Not funny, but you know what i mean)

And now the most important question.

Who is the one Faramir is attempting to kill? Is it Denethor? It would be so fucking awesome and traumatizing if he had to kill his own dad, even if he wasn't the best parent out there. And if Boromir survives, how would he react to his little brother having killed their father?

Because I guess that, rationally, he would understand that Faramir had to. But would he still sort of resent him for it?

He probably won't live though, so on that note: How would he die? If Frodo was the sort of infected but also immune one, would Boromir be uncomfortable with the fact that he's running around with a sort of zombie? I know I would be! What if he attacked him and Frodo found out that even though he is still himself, he is very much able to spread the virus further? That would be a good way to make him leave the fellowship, because he wouldn't want to hurt anyone, right? And that would make the whole "I'm coming with you" scene even more heartbreaking. Would Sam come with Frodo regardless or would Frodo not tell him and then tear himself apart with guilt? I'm guessing the former, but the two could probably be combined, right?

Okay, this started out as a little theory thing to your ask, but with this ammount of ideas, I could probably start my own fic (I won't though). I'm guessing I'm pretty far off with most of it, but man this was fun.

Obviously you don't have to answer any of this.

Can't wait to read more!

Thank you so much! :D

[abominableastronaut]

Aragorn and/or Arwen 👉👈

why not both!

Aragorn: First impression "He's alright, I guess". I was seven and very hard to impress, what can I say

Impression now Aragorn my good friend Aragorn… I love book Aragorn and film Aragorn in different ways but they're both great. He's got leader of the friend group energy and I would trust him to be the designated driver Favorite moment Dramatic door opening his quiet moments in the films are some of my favourites, but I also really like his moment with Frodo before the final confrontation in Fellowship As for the books, I like him coming to Minas Tirith, directly after Pelennor, and his greatest actions in the aftermath are healing. Ioreth had a good point actually Idea for a story Tolkien gives us a decent understanding of what people are doing in the appendices but… I wouldn't say no to seeing more moments that see him developing into the man he is when we meet him Unpopular opinion What even would be an unpopular opinion for book Aragorn… I assume there's different takes but I interact with fandom stuff in such a chill way I have no idea For film, yes the beacons are lit is such a cool scene but I spend so much of that run anxiously thinking he's going to trip, slow down buddy Favorite relationship It feels like such a copout to say the Fellowship but name a more iconic group tbh Favorite headcanon This man is great at just going with the flow when he's actually confused as hell, and he absolutely has put it to use when the hobbits say something that makes no sense

Arwen: First impression It was the 2001 film so I thought she was cool, then was immediately confused when she didn't get any further moments like that in the other films. Still liked her a lot, though Impression now She's fascinating to me, and I can respect that it must have been difficult to change her life and future so drastically Favorite moment Of the number there are in canon, there's something very somber and touching about the moments in the appendices where she gives up immortality, and then later when she reaffirms her decision. Some of that wording gets used in the films, though in a different set of situations Also I think the little moment where she gifts Frodo something for his pain is very sweet Idea for a story I think we deserve Arwen in Lothlórien actually, I'd love to see more of her life before Fellowship, she's lived over 2000 very interesting years during the decline of the elves in Middle Earth. I'd love to see more of that time for her. More family content too Unpopular opinion Are there unpopular opinions about Arwen these days? I don't even know Favorite relationship I have a soft spot for the father-daughter dynamic with Elrond, parents who want the best for their kids and postive parent-child dynamics just get me Favorite headcanon I have some nebulous, positive thoughts regarding her relationship with her grandmother (clearly good enough that she spends a decent chunk of her time with her grandparents). Not much, though, but I do love to hear everyone's opinions send me a character!

[eunoiaastralwings]

requesting once again bc i love ur writing :) “I always address you by your title or surname but you’re in peril so I lose my cool and call you by your first name” with erestor x elronds daughter!reader pls 🥺

Erestor watched you, the daughter of his lord and his apprentice join your twin brothers in combat training.

He wasn’t too pleased in hearing how you wanted to skip today’s work within his study and go off gallivanting, that’s at least how the ever grumpy elf put it.

You called it something else:

“Master Erestor, I would like to spend the afternoon with my brothers.”

“Is that really necessary, m’lady?”

“My brothers will leave on patrol soon, I think they will be out hunting too. I would really like to spend time with them before they leave, please, Master Erestor.”

Erestor was forced to let you go for the afternoon, especially after your father suggested it was good idea too.

The ellon glared as you laughed in your attempt to try and swing the sword.

You seemed to be having a whole lot more fun than the afternoons in the library alongside himself. 

When he made you his apprentice, he had hoped to spend more time with you.

The lingering gazes and soft small smiles was starting to give away what he felt for you.

So in making you his apprentice, no one could suspect how the ellon had fallen for his lord’s daughter.

“M’lady, if you may accept, I would like to make you my apprentice in seeing how much you love learning and gaining as much as myself.”

“I would be honored, kind councilor.”

Some days he was beating himself up for it, for falling for a young elleth; you.

Other days, he was too entranced by your kindness and beauty to even let anything ruin his time with you.

Yes, you may have only spoken about the work related topics and history. 

But the ellon enjoyed hearing your opinions on anything and every thing. 

Hearing you speak and voicing your ideas so passionately, he had grown very fond of it.

He longed to hear what you had to say every day and fill his hears with a melody like no other in this world.

But today he was forced not to and it left the ellon more grumpy and snappy than usual. 

So much that someone left his study in tears only moments before, so he found himself here.

Where he could watch you and calm the fire burning inside him.

Why couldn’t combat training with your brothers be in the morning, rather than leave him alone to make this evening miserable; he was forced to yearn for you. 

Erestor scowled looking out into the fields. 

Maybe he should suggest combat training with you as well?

He was a warrior once, he still knew how to wield a sword.

He sighed and ran his hand over his face, then turned away.

But the sharp cry of pain made him freeze.

The ellon whipped himself around and ran to your aid.

“Y/N!”

He kneed to the ground and gathered your body into his arms.

“You fools!”

He shouted at your brothers.

“It’s not our fault, she fell backwards” Elladan said.

Elrohir quickly tried to examine your ankle, but Erestor pushed him away and carefully touched your skin.

He let out a string of curses as you whimpered in pain.

“I knew this was a bad idea.”

He picked you gently, careful not to move your ankle too much.

“I will heal, master Erestor” you whimpered.

“You are still young, you need proper care” he stated.

It was only once you were carefully bandaged up did Erestor’s anger subside.

You swore, he would have almost killed the healer because of every sign or sound of pain you made.

Erestor placed himself on the chair beside your bed the entire time you spoke with your father and brothers. 

Telling them you’re okay.

He almost scoffed at your brothers’ apology, still too annoyed, at himself rather than them.

Erestor should have kept watch, then he could probably have stopped this from happening and you wouldn't be in pain.

“Master Erestor, may I ask you something?”

You turned to immediately him when they left.

Receiving a nod of approval, you then continued.

“You always called me, m'lady or use my title” you said.

You had frown your face and it confused him.

“Of course, m'lady.”

“Until earlier today, you said my name. You called me by my name.”

Erestor blinked, shocked as he slowly started to remember.

“Forgive me, m'lady.”

There was a reason why Erestor never said or called you by your name— even though being your father's closest and mosr trusted friend and advisor he was allowed to—he still didn't.

“No, it was nice. I was only hoping you would call me by my name again. It's always m'lady, lady of imladris, my lord's child! Is it so much to ask for you to simply call me by my name?”

When you suddenly started crying, the ellon panicked.

He didn't know what to do.

“My l-”

He stopped himself from calling you by your title.

“Y/N...”

Gently he leaned forward and wiped away your tears.

He sighed, angry at himself for making you cry.

“See? It's ok. I like it when you call me by my name. Why haven't you done that before, mas- Erestor...”

It was hard for him to keep it hidden for longer and he hated lying to you.

His hands came to cup your face.

He couldn't stop himself.

“The reason why I couldn't say your name was because I was afraid that's what— it would take for for you to realize that—I'm in love with you” he gulped.

He sighed and looked down.

“Didn't you teach me not to keep things hidden, it will only hurt...”

“Yes” he whispered.

Erestor was shamed he betrayed his own teachings.

“Forgive me.”

“Then, Erestor, will you forgive me too?”

“For what, Y/N?”

You smiled when he said your name.

“For hiding it from you too– of how my hearts is yearning for your love.”

The ellon blinked he couldn't believe his own ears.

“Yes, I'm now love with you, Master Erestor... or just Erestor.”

You giggled awkwardly.

“Are you sure?”

You leaned in and kissed his lips.

“Yes.”

Erestor happily returned it.

“Why did you say my name?”

You asked after pulling away.

“You were in danger and I— I'm guessing my worry and love came out all at once and I couldn't help myself.”

You smiled and nodded.

He pulled you into another chaste.

“But now, I'm no longer feel troubled I did.”

“I love you, Erestor.”

“As I love you, Y/N, meleth nin.”

Tara's taglist: @middleearthsweetheart

[jaimebluesq]

"Nie are the Tolkien Dwarves of the Jianghu" 👀 may i ask you to expand on that? it seems really right emotionally but idek why haha

I think it started with a feeling but the more I think on it, the more it makes sense. Perhaps a good comparison is looking at the other sects too.

The Lan are definitely Rivendell elves (Lan Qiren = Elrond with the Twin Jades being Elladan and Elrohir), and the Jin I'd say could compare to Lothlorien elves (give more of a 'high and mighty' feel - am now imagining Haldir as Jin Zixun and vice versa), and the Jiang are most definitely Mirkwood elves (a little freer than other elves but considered hicks/rednecks in comparison - sorry Jiang Cheng aka Legolas! Instead of spiders they have alligators!).

And we won't touch the Wen (can go evil and compare them to Sauron and the orcs, or more appropriately go further back to the Silmarillion and compare Wen Ruohan to Feanor which would make the rest of the Wen Noldor).

So by that logic the Nie would be elves too, wouldn't it? Nope! In the Jianghu, the Nie are unique in their style of cultivation because of their origins - the sect was started by a butcher. It's a very working-class feel to it - butchers & miners have that similarity class-wise, which give the Nie & Tolkien dwarves (associated with mining) that similar working-class feel. Then you look at their choice of weapon - even though not all sabers look like Baxia (NHS' is rather slim, and in CQL some Wen were seen with his style of saber), many/most we see (again, CQL) carried by Nie are of similar styles to Baxia - so stylistically, that sort of saber and the dwarven axes & hammers match very well.

And then we get to the braids, where all this began (at least the post where I made the original statement). Yes, dwarves aren't the only ones who wear braids, nor are the Nie. However, in both cases, they're more *prominent* and seem to have more significance (whether aesthetically or otherwise). Just look at NMJ and NHS (CQL), both have sets of braids that are very elaborate and well-identifiable (I dare you to NOT recognize NHS from behind in a group shot!), so while other disciples in other sects may have the occasional little braid, none compare to the Nie in that regard. Similarly, yes Legolas and Elrond wear their own kinds of braids, but when you look at a dwarf, the braid isn't just a little accessory - it's one of the first things you really notice. Part of it's because they just have SO MUCH HAIR, not just on their head but on their faces as well (ah the glory of a fine dwarven beard). And then lore-wise, I think the fact that Gimli asked Galadriel for strands of her hair as a gift add to the idea that hair (and the braiding thereof) have more significance in dwarven culture.

Finally, I think NMJ and NHS respectively give appearances that are (when put together) often associated with dwarves. NMJ is thick and buff and muscular (and in CQL has facial hair), while NHS is shorter than everyone except JGY. If you combine them, you get a stereotypical dwarf :D

So even though a lot of this is CQL based, there's enough little things from all canons that kind of give the stylistic link between the Nie and Tolkien dwarves.

At least that's my story and I'm sticking to it!

*** (Sincerely, a former Tolkien fangirl who hasn't read the source materials in years but who once was an avid Legolas/Gimli & Glorfindel/Erestor shipper - in fact I have a L/G fic somewhere on my computer that never saw the light of day, and another incomplete one that dealt SPECIFICALLY with the whole dwarves and braids thing, so yeah)

[nancywheelxr]

can u do something where thandruil is rlly busy and kind of ignoring legolas and they go to visit elrond and elrond finds out that legolas thinks that thanduril is purposfully not paying attention to him (maybe he thinks it’s his fault his mom died)

Legolas thinks he shouldn't like these visits quite so much.

But he can't help it– Imladris lives up to its name with a fierce friendliness. The trees are green and the grass is lush, flowers seem to grow year-round, and the sun is bright, dispersing any passing shadow.

And here, there are the twins, always one word away from finding some grand adventure, there are Erestor and Glorfindel, patiently telling stories of the First Age for their eager ears, and there are food and music and, and–

And it's so different from home.

Greenwood is not so great anymore, he doesn't think. Everyday the night seems to grow longer and the days to grow duller. Even the people– everyone is always looking so tense and frightened, Legolas can't bear watching their worried eyes.

He heard his father talking with a councilman, the Necromancer is getting stronger.

So yes, sometimes Legolas looks around the balcony of the guest room and thinks he likes it here better than home. He feels terribly guilty, but it’s terribly hard to feel bad in Imladris, especially in the spring.

A knock on his door startles him out of his thoughts. “Lord Elrond,” he blinks, belated remembering his manners, “erm, is there anything I can help you with?”

“Perhaps,” Lord Elrond smiles politely, declining the invitation to come in, “while I do hope you’re settling in alright, I was actually looking for your father. I don't suppose you’ve seen him?”

Legolas pauses, stopping himself from shrugging just in time. “Not since we’ve arrived yesterday evening, no,” he glances down at the floor, unable to hold that kind gaze much longer, “besides I’m not sure I’m the right person to ask, I really wouldn't know.”

That seems to upset him in some manner, Elrond frowns. “Why is that?”

If he hadn't known Elrond since he was an elfling, maybe Legolas would feel more ashamed about the way his face sort of crumbles a little. “Well, I haven't– I don't see much of my father these days,” he sighs, shuffling in the doorway, the ache in his chest grown beyond familiar at this point. “I think I’ve done something to upset him, but I haven't figured out what exactly yet.”

Which was not something Elrond needed to know, right. Legolas curses himself; Imladris always does make him softer.

“I see,” Elrond says, looking thoughtful and before Legolas could say anything or apologize for his words, he’s taking his leave with an understanding yet forced smile.

“Well, that could’ve gone better,” he tells the empty room. Outside, birds chirp near his window.

*

It’s later in the evening, enough that the twins have already retreated for their chambers, scolded by a resigned Erestor over the small mess they made out of the kitchens, and Legolas scurried to his room, fleeing the imminent lecture.

They all miss Arwen fiercely in times like this, she's always been good at looking innocent and talking her way out of trouble.

Anyway, it's late when another knock comes to his door.

This time, his visitor catches him a lot more off guard– his father stands stiffly in the doorway. 

“Ada?” He asks, taken aback, and immediately worries, “is everything alright?”

His father looks suddenly pained, expression going pinched, and not for the first time, Legolas notices how tired his father seems. “Yes, yes,” he waves a hand in dismissal, “may I come in? I believe we need to talk.”

Well, those words have never led to anything good.

But at least, maybe his father is finally going to tell him what he did wrong and Legolas can apologize and make amends and this whole avoidance can stop.

“I talked with Elrond today,” he starts mildly, looking around the room with a neutral expression, and Legolas can't help wondering who’s actually here– his father or the King. “He seemed to be under the impression I’m actively avoiding my own son.”

Oh. This is not good. 

“I can explain–”

But when his father turns to look back at him, he doesn't look angry, just upset. And tired, he looks very tired. “Ion nin,” he draws his eyebrows together, stepping closer to rest a hand on Legolas’ shoulders, “I am truly sorry if I ever gave you the impression this is in any way your fault.”

Speechless, Legolas can only gape, trying to process what he had clearly not been expecting.

“And while I know I cannot right the time wasted,” his father continues, “you must know I was only ever trying to protect you.”

“So this isn’t about nana?” He blurted out, hands itching to fly out to cover his mouth in mortification immediately after. They don't talk about this, don't talk about Legolas’ mother, everyone knows that, what was he thinking– “I’m sorry, I–”

“No, it’s– it’s quite alright,” his father clears his throat, visibly struggling to stay composed, “why did you think this was about your mother?”

“Oh, because,” Legolas looks away, down at the stain on the hardwood floor, trying very hard not to think about those awful days, “you know. I– I should've done more, should've fought harder– if I had found her sooner, if I had been strong enough in the first place, then. Then she wouldn't– she would still be here.”

His father takes a seat at the desk, motioning for him to do the same, and for a second he looks so wrecked with grief, Legolas wonders how he’s still standing. “What happened,” he says evenly, “could never be your fault. You’re so young, I only meant to protect you and yet, it seems I managed to only make it worse.”

Legolas frowns, fingers curling around the mug he left early. “I don't understand, Ada. Protect me?”

A sigh. “The orcs who attacked that day,” he explains, voice wavering in disgust, “are not the first and will not be the last to venture so deep into the forest.”

That can’t be– he knows things are tense, tales of spiders slithering in the shadows have begun cropping up everywhere, but– orcs?

“You did more than I could've asked, I should never have let you chase them,” his father continues, “and I thank Eru every night you were returned safely to me. The Shadow grows ever closer and every day we are pushed further north. Orcs are claiming the woods while spiders infest the trees. No, nothing could have been done that day. I have not been avoiding you, ion nin, but I’m afraid my time is being consumed entirely over these matters.”

It’s the distraught note in his father's voice that he so rarely hears, the effort he’s making at talking about the attack, that leads Legolas to believe him, to forgive.

There's a relief, of course. This is not, after all, a deliberate act on his father's part, but it's concerning how dire the situation is. It makes him wonder why are they really here.

“There is much to do and the people need to know their King is intent on fixing this. Elves go missing, villages are attacked– I hope you understand, I didn't mean to avoid you, I could not find the time to do anything more than keeping the situation from escalating out of control.”

“I understand,” he says, because he honestly does. Legolas knows the Council must be putting a lot of pressure on his father to find a solution to something that can hardly be solved. He had meant to keep Legolas from finding the true horror of the situation and managed to alienate him in the process. 

Typical.

But Legolas finds this sits uneasier for him as a Prince, than anything else. Why should he be hidden away to be protected when their people are suffering? Should he not be out there helping?

What good is the Royal Family if they’re safely tucked behind the castle walls?

An idea begins growing on his mind– if the rumors are to be believed, patrols are being sorted to start soon. If his father is this busy, Legolas doubts he’d notice his absence until it’s too late to stop him from joining the guards.

“Thank you,” his father nods, climbing to his feet, “I can't promise things will be any easier when we return home, but for now, you should get some rest.”

Legolas smiles as innocently as he can even as he wonders if he could convince Glorfindel to train him during the visit.