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Chapter 21

Year 455 of the First Age

Parenting, Struggles, and Self Admission Part 1

Maglor Fëanorian has been called many things in his lifetime. He was not foolish enough to think that coming to Beleriand and leaving behind the once peaceful lands of Valinor would be a path met with grace or ease. He'd seen the horrors of war, and been on the other end of people endlessly looking to him for guidance and wisdom. Many said he was the wisest and gentlest of Fëanor's sons. In truth he probably was if one didn't include his older brother Maedhros. 

Said older brother who was probably having it a lot easier than he was at the moment. 

However, given all that's happened in recent years that statement was debatable at best.

Though for all his eldest brothers gifts there was one flaw the Sons of Fëanor all shared. 

Well except Curufin, but that was more than questionable given recent years.

That's right. 

For all their majestic appearances, gifts, authority, position, and grace. The majority of Fëanor's sons were still unwed or couldn't hold up a relationship to save their lives. 

Celegorm was especially the worst. 

For all the ethereal beauty his handsome face held it in turn came with a blunt, graceless, and almost nasty personality. 

Well...nasty by the standards of Valinorian elleths anyway. 

If getting slapped across the face by the last elleth he tried to court was any indication of his tasteless manners. 

Then again....maybe it wasn't the best idea to try and match a wild hunter with a Vanyaran noble's daughter...(You think🤦).

Sigh...I almost pitied Indis.

Of course no one had loathed the continuous dilemma worse than his parents. 

Their mother and father nearly weeped at the prospective horror of never becoming grandparents, given their sons lack of tact (Dramatic🙄?). For the longest time everyone thought it would be either Maitimo or the twins that would wed first. But by Eru's grace it was Curvo that would be first to wed and bless Fëanor with his first grandchild and them their first nephew. From the moment Tyelpe was born, everyone spoiled and adored him. 

The eldar were a race that infrequently had children and protected them like 20 dragons guarding the horde. 

Well....supposed to. 

Until that utter disgrace of a brainless pigeon wearing a gaudy crown shamed their whole race.

Especially with each new revelation that keeps coming to light. 

Eru when I get my hands on him! 

....

Breathe..

In...

Out....

Peace Makalaurë..

No need to waste a good harp on his obviously empty skull (Right?🤣).

I'm certain Erestor won't mind me borrowing -destroying- one of his forge hammers. 

In any event, after Tyelpe was born he knew he wanted children. He wanted a child to nurture and love. He wanted someone to care for and praise for even the smallest things. While Fëanor's second son may have been no exception from what most elves wanted; he was in the sense that he didn't care for getting married. 

True, at one point he almost did wed a Telerin elleth by the name of Asiel. She was certainly a beauty and a kind soul. Her hair was a misty silver and she bore eyes of the deepest blue. A blue that matched the waters of which she loved to sail. Her craft may have laid in pottery rather than boatmaking, but she was still a Teler at heart. They had been courting for over a year and had almost decided to finalize their courtship. 

Well almost. 

Until the topic of children and future plans came up. 

It was honestly on this front that Maglor could truly empathize with Maeglin's desire for obscurity. 

...To an extent. 

For all that Maglor wanted to have children and all he loved Asiel; they could not in fact come to terms when it came to settling down. Asiel didn't want to be involved in the tumultuous chaos that was beginning to stir in Maglor's house. At the time Morgoth had just been released and the traitorous whispers about his father's claim to the throne were already spreading like a spiders web. Not even counting his father's growing paranoia after crafting the Silmarills. 

Sigh another problem Maeglin has undeniably solved. 

My goodness that boy. 

Now I just know that child has some kind of complex when it comes to solving other people's problems🤦 (Very accurate!😌).

But long story short, Asiel decided to end things because she didn't want to get involved with the drama. She didn't want to be a princess, be held to unreasonable standards, and especially didn't care for the idea that Maglor favored the prospect of adopting children that weren't his own.

A fair argument given how well the last "fostering" of someone else's child worked out...(Thanks Finwë 🤦).

Mistake not the final claim, for when Asiel said she didn't want to adopt. It was not for the reason of not caring for children that weren't her own. Nay, it was more she didn't see a reason for it and feared Maglor was inviting strife by being open to such a thing. 

How ironic🙄, given all the chaos that erupted after Morgoth's release.

Though to be fair it's best we didn't end up marrying, for she no doubt wants to choke me about a 100 times over right about now. 

Tis no question I deserve it!

Many claimed the line of Finwë was not gifted in foresight. 

However, given recent events; that presumption might as well be thrown into the flaming pits of a fire mountain.  

Lómion would give Artanis a run for her money in more ways than could be conceived (You sure?🤭).

Tis almost quite humorous how in massive contrast to their golden haired cousin, Lómion wouldn't sit around and do nothing. EVEN IF YOU BEGGED HIM! (Nope😓).

If it's not one thing it's another (Poor McGonagall😅).

Just when you think he can't get any crazier he goes and does something else. 

Why is it always him?! (Sound familiar?🤣).

His foresight is so detailed it's almost like he read the events straight out of a book (Hmmm👀?)

Eru save Aredhel's sanity for when she sees all this from Mandos (Sanity gone😅). 

The moment I see my father again, after I punch him, I'm going to apologize for every naughty thing I ever did as a child.

Well, at least I only ever told Asiel and Nelyo about wanting to adopt.

I seriously doubt anyone else would have been open to the idea in the deluded self perceived paradise of Valinor. 

Deluded indeed; for it was because Maglor had come to Beleriand that he was able to meet and care for the boy he now considered his son in all but blood. A child that had been harmed by his own eggheaded excuse of an uncle and spoiled brat of a cousin. An elfling that was so desperate and fearful of being loved he almost irreversibly hurt himself. A powerful and kind soul that didn't seem to know when to stop being kind! If the last few decades were anything to go by, this child just seemed LITERALLY incapable of being cruel unless it was for the sake of someone he loved. The very idea of such a child being the subject of ludicrous scorn made his blood boil!

To the Void with whatever anyone says!

I'll love Lómion like my own blood until the end of Eä and beyond. 

Okay, yes his methods of helping people could sometimes be a bit questionable at times (A bit?? Really?🤨).

But by Eru Ilúvatar what was I thinking letting that child anywhere near a battlefield!

I don't care how powerful he is! 

You don't let children anywhere near this (If only🤦). 

If there was one thing Maglor Fëanorian learned in the last 30 years. It was that being a parent was both rewarding and a never ending battle for your sanity. While his love for the boy was unquestionable and he would very well beat anyone that dared to question it. He just couldn't help but think how this child was probably the greatest oddity in the history of parenting. The moment he thinks he understands one thing, a dozen more questions take its place. Lómion's powers just didn't seem to have an end and his innovative thinking was beyond anything he had ever seen. Both his brothers, cousin, and uncle had never seen or heard of anything like this. At one point Curufin even questioned if this boy wasn't directly related to them because their father was no doubt going to claim the boy as his own the moment he was out of Mandos (No s***😅). 

Of course Uncle Fingolfin did NOT appreciate that comment...

Though he didn't outright disagree all things considering. 

None in his house are smiths so what could he say. 

For all the mercy in the world....when we finally told him that Lómion had been seen ploughing a field. 

....Well....I'll certainly never forget that day. 

Of course Findekáno just keeps finding the whole thing funny, but only by so much. 

Even the kind and open-minded Fingon the Valiant had a limit when it came to his family. By no means was anyone in the house of Fëanor or Fingolfin alright with Lómion even remotely participating in the battle; airgo massacre, that had just passed nearly two months ago. ESPECIALLY with all that happened after he'd finally been found. Forget gag orders, NOTHING is going to shut people up from all the insanity that occured that day. What happened that night was probably going down in history books till the end of Arda. No loremaster would ever miss the chance to tell this ridiculous story, not for all the gold or mythril in Arda. If there was ever a time Maglor Fëanorian feared himself getting gray hair or dying of grief it was those few days following the battle. Then as if that wasn't enough his heart son brings back a tag along that sent all his wits shooting into the void! The only comfort being that his uncle and brother looked ready to have a heart attack as well.

But could you blame them??!

How could anyone be expected to handle such a ridiculous situation!!

Never mind after a battle!

Oh and the perpetrator behind such madness just happens to forgo interrogation because he's been in and out of sleep! 

Eru save me from what I am looking at right now. 

This is beyond ridiculous. 

How did he even get in here?!

I threw him out not even an hour ago!

Now what was Maglor Fëanorian looking at you ask? 

The answer was simple.

....

Well....somewhat...

To most it would almost be considered cute.

If not for what an absurd sight it made.  

For in the tower of Barad Eithel, in the High King's personal chamber.

Maglor Fëanorian, his younger brother Celegorm, the High King Fingolfin, and the Crown Prince Fingon were gazing at what lay in the High King's bed. 

For there curled up in the blankets was the King's grandson in his rabbit form......

......and a child sized red wolf. 

Said wolf that was curled up with the rabbit as though it were his pup. 

Both figures sound asleep and blissfully ignorant to the oncoming seizure their audience was about to have. 

But to explain how this came to be, we're gonna have to step back a bit. 

Back to the few days following Maeglin Lómion finally meeting his uncle and grandfather. 

Whatever Maglor expected to happen after Fingolfin was told of his grandson's existence. It certainly wasn't this. 

Oh he most certainly expected the rage sessions. 

The seething anger. 

The destruction of private property.

The disappointment and confessions of the shame wrought by an unfiliel son who'd lost all sense of rational thinking. 

By Eru's light even the heart to heart discussions that seemed to shatter the ice wall that had sundered their houses for the last several certuries. 

...But not this. 

Oh no what Maglor, his brothers, cousin, and Uncle just heard sent all their heads spinning. 

So much so that he could feel it through their familial bonds. 

I knew Lómion had his reservations but.....

This is just...

The room was deathly quiet. 

A stillness that would have sent most reeling on account of how such silence usually correlated with a report of someone's ill met demise. 

A report that had become all too frequent since the seige of Angband. 

And ironically one that had become a rare occurrence since Lómion's unsought interventions. 

Of course the reason for their silence stemmed not from such tragedy but rather...

"Lómion...." said Fingon with naught but tenderness as he looked at his newly found nephew with something words just couldn't describe. 

This can't be happening right now. 

He can't truly mean that....

Not even Atar...

They were all still in the healing halls. It'd been a week since Fingolfin and Fingon's arrival. Following the High King and Crown Prince's...episode....the last week had been spent in mundane peace. Their Uncle and cousin had wasted no time in getting to know their latest addition. Lómion spent everyday in the healing halls just chatting and cuddling with his haru. At first he seemed hesitant to go near Fingon on account of...previous experiences.

Mark me Turukáno I will GUT you when I find you!

Of course such reservations were soon  squashed when Fingon had taken to actually pouting when Lómion seemed to pull away from him. 

Whatever Lómion thought when he saw the supposed "valiant" crown prince of the Noldor conduct himself in such a manner, he would never tell. 

Of course I didn't miss that adorable snort through our bond.

At first Maglor had resolved himself to staying away during their familial bonding. He'd had two years with Lómion while his uncle and cousin were just getting to know him. His brothers had resolved to do the same. In part for respect but also for a nagging sense of guilt. Their houses may have a steady peace but there was still tension. The last thing any of them wanted to do was add more strain to a situation Lómion didn't need to deal with. 

Of course the little gwining had other plans. 

Following the first chaotic days of Fingolfin's arrival. Lómion had resolved himself to dragging them all out of bed and having breakfast, lunch, and practically all their meals together in the healing halls. 

When Tyelko and Curvo tried to talk their way out of it the little terror had -subtly- hinted that he might forget to eat if they weren't there. 

Shameless little minx. 

It didn't take a genius to figure out the two most dangerously renown Fëanorian's had just been emotionally blackmailed by Aredhel's spawn (She's so proud 👏). 

Long story short they all ended up eating together. What initially started as awkward silences soon evolved into conversations remembering times long past. There were even talks about future visits and current matters. The tension from centuries of infighting seemed to have eased with just a flick of a wrist. Maglor couldn't believe it and neither could Maedhros. 

They both knew Lómion did this on purpose but they couldn't find it in them to refute him. Not when he looked more happy then they'd ever seen him.

Plus if he was being honest Maglor found himself relieved to be spending more time with the boy he now loved as a son. 

He would not deny himself the truth. 

He loved Lómion. 

For all the chaos, mischief, and heart attacks this child could bring he still loved him. This boy had the biggest heart and the sharpest wit(sometimes😅) he had ever seen. This little one deserved all the love in the world. To this day he just couldn't fathom all the horror this child had endured from those that were supposed to care for him. 

I'll never understand it. 

Even when Haru lost Míriel he did not forsake his son. 

Not once. So how did this happen. 

Of course while Lómion's reveal to his direct family was a relief it was also a burden. A double edged knife that had begun digging a wound into his heart. Makalaurë would be lying if he said he didn't fear never seeing Lómion again. Deep down he feared that his uncle and cousin would take this little bundle and never bring him back. 

He knew it was selfish. 

He knew it was a horrible thing to think given Lómion was theirs. 

He was even more aware that to have such thoughts was to admit he wasn't concerned about the boy being anywhere near the frontlines. 

Which couldn't be any further from the truth! 

Maglor did not want Lómion anywhere near danger! 

He didn't want a child or the boy he cared about it within even remotely proximity of a thorny rose bush. 

Magic and maia heritage be damned. 

That's no excuse to expect things from him that otherwise would place him in harms way (Tell that to someone we know!🤦)

So for the longest time he didn't say anything. He didn't voice these turbulent thoughts because he had no right to weigh them on the boy who seemed to have enough on his metaphorical plate. He had steeled himself for the inevitable discussion that would eventually be brought up. 

A discussion that had begun not but a few minutes ago. It had started off well enough. They exchanged pleasantries and were well into their lunches. Lómion was huddled on the bed right next to his grandfather; Nelyo seated on the lounge chair on their right with Fingon right at his side. The others scattered about the healing halls well into their plates.

About halfway through the meal was when their Uncle finally found it prudent to bring up the next steps in Lómion's future. Their Uncle sounded so excited about the announcement of Lómion's heritage. Even his brothers were nodding with approval. 

But Maglor wasn't...

And the reason he wasn't was because...

Why does Lómion look upset?

Okay upset may not have been accurate.

He supposes it would've been more prudent to say that the gwining curled up in Fingolfin's side looked more tired than angry. His face had gone totally blank again and once more bore the visage of someone who seemed older than he looked. Like he'd heard such things before and was downright sick of it (Astute observation😅). 

This again...

I have a bad feeling about this. 

And of course his instincts would be proven true when Lómion interrupted his grandfather, and spoke words that had brought about their current predicament.

"No"

Fingolfin paused. 

Fingon stared. 

Maglor shuddered.

Maeglin just sighed. 

"I don't want to be known as a prince. I'm fine if people don't even know I exist"

Shatter!

Clink!

The dishes Celegorm, Curufin, and Carinthir were holding broke and clatered to the ground in almost perfect synchrony. Their grip completely gone after what they just heard. 

I see not even the cutlery shall be spared (Why did you think it would?🤷)

Out of everyone Maedhros and Fingon seemed to be the most struck by what Maeglin just said. Now while Maglor had not physically reacted to this utter absurdity; in truth his fëa was screaming so loud in aghast horror he did not doubt his brother's could hear it. 

Maedhros stammered before finding his voice. 

"Lómion, why...why would you say that? You are our family" said Maedhros in clear struggle to find the right words to say. That was until Maeglin cut him off. The child's face still looking blank. But Maglor could feel through their bond, even though Maeglin probably didn't intend it to leak out, that there was a strong sense of acquainted resolution coursing through him.

...Wait...

Why is he also frustrated?

"Yes, you are my family and that's all I need" said his heart son in resolute confidence. The child crossing his arms in front of his chest as though to solidfy his position on the matter. 

"Hína; nephew please. Please nephew what do you fear? Why do you say this?" said his cousin with a pleading desperation. For all the courage that Maglor's cousin held he knew first hand that the eldest son of Fingolfin loved his family with a passion. The idea of Maeglin being in pain clearly killing him. 

I think I know and by Eru's light please give me strength. 

For a moment the blank look in Lómion's eyes seemed to recede and in its place there was a sadness Maglor failed to understand. Lómion looked at his uncle who had come kneeling by the bedside with what looked like a mix of forlorn regret and yearning. Maglor could tell that many of his brothers saw it and were officially concerned at why their nephew looked so...old. 

Now as for Fingolfin, he wasn't fairing any better. 

If anything the High King's body had gone completely stiff. His palor pale as a freshly sewn canvas with his gaze now utterly fixed on the child at his side. 

The bond with his uncle may not have been strong enough for ósanwë but Maglor could tell that Fingolfin was coming to conclusions that were speedily foretelling of another violent episode on the horizon. 

Funny enough it was Curufin that broke the silence. 

"Lómion you are our kin. You are of royal blood. This is your birthright! Why would you deny this?" said Curufin with determination to speak sense into the nephew of his heart. 

Sadly it would not yield the results he intended when a painful and bitter grimace graced the elfling's features. 

"My birthright? Last I checked that didn't really mean anything to people who don't care" 

If there was one word that could describe what those words made everyone feel. It would probably be pure unadulterated fury. 

Not one word but you get the picture. 

Maglor hid it as best he could but he knew it didn't escape everyone's notice that his fist was currently clenched so tight he had no doubt his knuckles were white. 

As for Curufin....

He didn't like that answer and looked like he was legitimately about to kill someone. The only thing stopping him being his violent internal debate on whether to yell or hug the child in front of him. 

Celegorm finally felt the need to jump in. 

"Maeglin, it's not as though I don't understand the tediousness that comes from being a prince.." said Celegorm in an attempt to show empathy for Aredhel's son. The renown hunter of Oromë actually speaking from personal experience given his inclination towards the wild rather than politics. Sadly, the attempt would not work as the child cut him off. Maeglin's face still blank as he spoke in a tone so clear-cut it was almost concerning. 

"The last person who called me 'prince' said it like it was the most vile word they'd ever spoken" 

Celegorm froze and clenched his jaw so hard you could hear his teeth grinding.

Great, I can already hear him growling through the bond.

Fingolfin just violently twitched and Fingon looked....oh dear. He didn't look well at all. It was quite a sight to see their closest cousin dangle on the precipice of either crying or destroying all in his path. Taking his nephews hands and gently holding them seemed to be his settled attempt to keep his feet planted.

Their reactions were honestly no surprise given they'd seen Maeglin's memories and knew who he was talking about. 

Of course what the child didn't know was that the House of Finwë was about to give that accursed kitchen hand a reason to fear for their life. 

When I get my hands on that thrice cursed arrogant wretch! 

I will cleave his wagging tongue from his venomous mouth with a rusted kitchen knife!

Maglor decided to finally chime in before he screamed and unintentionally destroyed another section of his fortress. An incident that would most certainly get him speared by Máriel.

So he took a deep calming breathe and spoke with gentleness as he looked his heart son right in the eye. 

"Pitya, pitya look at me" he said and was heartened to see some life return to the child's eyes. Black met blue-grey as Lómion sheepishly looked at Maglor like a scolded child.

"Lómion first of all know that we are not angry with you"

Never you but most certainly some gaudy prudes that will be meeting the other end of my fist!

A harp won't be enough!

"We say these things because we want you to have the best. This is not said in attempt to govern your life"

Throw me in the sea before I ever think myself any right to tell people how to live their lives (Umm ill advised🫣).

"Regardless of.....certain individuals. We want you to have what is yours. Didn't you say you wanted to know your grandfather and uncle? Are you not thinking of settling with them?" he said with such softness one would have thought he were speaking to a scared squirrel. 

Maeglin momentarily shifted his gaze to his haru and uncle. The two elves now looking at him as though he were the most precious thing in the world (He is🙂‍↕️). 

"....I...I do"

Maglor was going to try and use this chance to speak reason to the elfling, but before he could Maeglin just raised a hand and sighed. 

"However I can't...not right now" said Maeglin as though he were just done with this whole conversation. A feeling Maglor could personally attest to given he could feel the child's impatience through their bond. 

"Why? Why Lómion" said Caranthir whose face started turning red from the apparent frustration of even having this conversation. For while he knew why; it did nothing to ease his anger at the seemingly obvious perpetrators. 

Though they'd all soon hear of a very different reason. 

One that would truly test their composure. Them and their uncle's.

"I already told you. Glaurung and the Balrogs are coming. I have to finish the barrier and all my other work. I can't do that from Barad Eithel or from people gossiping their heads off! The less people know I exist the faster I can get this done!"

At the cost of what?! 

You've collapsed once already!

"I don't need a title making things difficult"

That..

"I don't need people looking at me like I'm some exotic animal"

I would eviscerate anyone who dared!

"I don't want eyes on me or any expectations that I'm simply done with! I've had enough bloody drama to last several lifetimes"

You..

You are far too young to be saying such things...(Is he though?😓)

"I don't need the burden of being a 'prince' when I'm still learning Noldoran culture. I'm not daft enough to think people would 'respect' someone like that"

That propagated a sharp gasp from their Uncle and a painful wince from Fingon. The momentary scathing glare their uncle shot at Maglor and his brothers said one thing "You will explain this later."

Aye Eru, save me from this madness 😣

Ugh! By all that is good he just spoke badly of himself again didn't he! (Sadly😓).

"I don't need titles, honors, or whatever making my life difficult. I don't need tongues wagging or people gawking at me. And I especially don't need Artanis, Melian, or Doriath making things worse. I've got enough on my plate as is"

Who said you should be taking anything on at all?! (Agreed🤦)

You are a practical infant! 🤯

You should be enjoying your life not taking on responsibilities that were never meant to be thrust upon you!

What in the world has Artanis done to instigate this much weariness?? (Mind eavesdropper😑)

And what in the void is this nonsense about respect?! 

There is a horde of former thralls ready to tear your enemies to pieces! (They really would😬).

Everyone was beyond pale at this point. Fingon really looked like he was about to cry while the High King remained still as a tree. But one didn't need a deep bond with him to tell he was silently seething with pure rage. A rage that was no doubt about to be unleashed on the surrounding wildlife and any unfortunate orcs in the vicinity (Sorry Yavanna🫣).

But what Maeglin said next truly put the final nail in the coffin. 

".....So please....I don't want it. I am so tired of it. I'm fine with things as they are. I do want to know all of you better but...."

They all held their breath.

"Don't try to take my freedom"

"Just let me protect you"

Silence. 

Silence so palpable you could hear a pin drop. 

The temperature dropped several degrees. 

The shock from those words stole the breathe from every piece of their bodies. 

Nobody even hoped to formulate a response to that because how did one even begin to counter such a thing. 

A child protecting the adults?

A child begging to not have his freedom taken?

A little one that should have been loved and given honors for even a fraction of their efforts now views such things as the vilest poison. 

Twas official; this world was marred beyond reason.

There really weren't any words to even begin to describe the absurdity of all this. For the first time since his death, Maglor truly wished his father were here. His father, Fëanor, who had been an unending source of love and affection since the day he were begotten. His parent who had been there for him when he cried and showed naught but respect for his craft of music. The ellon and ner that gave him advice and comfort when times were tough or when he felt himself lesser than his peers. Let none ever say Fëanor did not love his children. Because before anything else, even when he'd gone mad, Fëanor always sought to try and protect his family to the best of his ability. 

He may have made horrible decisions but Maglor knew that the ner could at least empathize with Lómion to some degree. Fëanor had been subjected to cruel whispers in his youth, not to the degree Maeglin had, but enough to perhaps have some semblance of how to deal with this. 

Or maybe not. 

Who knows (We do😉).

Because rather than scorn, Fëanor had held onto his rights and titles so tight he nigh nearly seared them into his very being. 

For in his mind what choice did the great smith have?

His right as Finwë's firstborn was his armor and shield.

His title as crown prince and the greatest smith of the Ñoldor were ones that were his by birth and hard work. None could dare argue this claim regardless of all the wrongs done since the darkening. Their father, his brothers, and himself had committed unspeakable sins. But at the end of the day Fëanor was still their father and right now Maglor wanted nothing more then to beg his parent for wisdom on how to even remotely deal with this. 

There were just so many things wrong with what Lómion just said that it took immense effort not to scream or wail in frustration. His brothers were utterly perplexed at this, and Maglor could clearly feel through their bond that they were almost on the verge of hysteria. They were truly at a loss. 

This is wrong. 

This is so wrong. 

This is wrong in every sense. 

I don't know how to fix this. 

How do I tell him this is wrong in a way he'll actually believe me?

In the end no words were spoken. By the time the sun had set everyone was forced to silently acquiesce to Maeglin's request. Eru knows they'd never force Maeglin to do anything he didn't want to do. But like the void were they going to sit here and let a child "protect" them! The mere sentence was ludicrous and preposterous in every sense (See😑). The day he found who brainwashed this child's mind like this was the day he'd discover how to torture via song. 

A viable threat to be certain given he'd been granted the new episse of Effírië Linde (Death Singer) following his venting session on that orc pack (Oh snap🤣). 

Death Singer indeed because I'll make those rats ears bleed when I find them! (Rock n' Roll! 🎸 )

It was late into the eve now, and Lómion had already retired for the night after Erestor came to pick him up for his lessons. 

I despise that he gets to teach him but I must endure because Lómion adores him. 

That sneaky ner actually followed me to Himring!

"A child of his intellect shouldn't get used to missing lessons when it's clear he enjoys them. I'm sure you understand my Lord"

That silver tongued snake!

Ugh my blood boils whenever I see that smirk on Erestor's face (He's a troll😅).

Everyone was still in the healing halls with their Uncle. Caranthir didn't seem too eager to be near their Uncle given what happened last time, but there really was no other choice. They had a lot to discuss and at least he was still wearing the armor Curufin forged. 

I still don't think he should have been wearing that in front of Lómion.

Just what kind of message does that send. (Meh he just thinks he's weird😅).

Since that world shattering discussion the High King had gone silent as the grave. His eyes were completely unseeing and honestly would have looked dead if not for the raging inferno they could feel through the familial bond. Everyone always thought their father was the one with the temper but in truth the majority of Finwë's children had a temper so fierce it would send even the bravest warriors quivering for their mothers. Honestly, the only difference between Finwë's five children was how they showed that temper.

Findis was subtle but lethal.

Fëanor was explosive.

Írimë was contemptuous but cheery (Could never tell with her😬).

Fingolfin was quiet unless deeply provoked (The Grizzly has been poked....with a 10ft pole)

Finarfin was tranquil but knew how to hold a grudge. 

Out of the whole lot, it was the youngest son that took after Finwë the least. 

Given their youngest uncle was usually amicable towards Celegorm's tantrums. 

Good thing too because I'd most certainly rather ask for pardon from him than Aunt Findis (Chills 🧊).

Now as for the crown prince, he'd been reluctant to let Lómion even leave for his lessons. He just endlessly hugged the boy and told him to come if he needed anything. At one point Milya even asked if the little rabbit "broke" the High king with his mischief.

Maedhros just gave her a look. 

A look that Milya scoffed at and quietly ignored as she looked over Fingolfin's arm. 

That elleth is dangerous, brave, and crazy all at the same time.

The fact Lómion managed to miff her, and evade vengeance is an achievement worthy of history books. 

Then again she's still determined to learn his healing techniques.

Sigh...one mess at a time Makalaurë.

Milya had just finished replacing the bandages on Fingolfin's arm and had departed for the night when Maedhros finally decided to break the suffocating silence that threatened to swallow them whole. 

"Uncle?" 

Fingolfin didn't respond. His vacant eyes were still fixed on the wall. But the fire was still burning. A rage that was getting hotter by the minute. 

Next was Curufin.

"Uncle, we know you can hear us" 

Fingolfin still didn't respond but his brow did twitch. 

Oh dear....please just not the wall. 

Not the wall please.

Finally Fingon tried. 

"Atar? Atar please, please say something" 

That seemed to do it. For all his equal treatment of his children, Nolofinwë's firstborn would always hold that special place in his heart. A good thing too since the High King's eyes seemed to focus again as his gaze shifted to his firstborn. His face relaxing by the slightest margin before those silver blue eyes shifted to the seven brothers with a gaze so sharp it'd have frozen water. 

For what felt like an eternity Fingolfin just stared at all of them before turning his focus directly to him. 

Maglor would never admit he felt the slightest urge to look away from such an intense gaze. Being the subject of such heavy scrutiny was never his preference. In all honesty, Makalaurë and his brothers had never seen Fingolfin like this. Twas a side to their uncle they didn't think they'd really see. A conundrum to be certain given they could still feel the fire. However, it seemed to be under control. 

For the moment at least. 

A quiet torch ready to burst at the slightest provocation. 

"Nephew" said Fingolfin with a steady tone but a fixed look. 

Maglor internally gulped. 

"....Yes uncle?" he said with bated breath. 

"Am I so weak?" said the High King with a tone Maglor really couldn't place. 

Everyone was left speechless. 

Even Fingon looked surprised. 

Maglor didn't know how to respond to that. Though he tired. 

"Pardon? Uncle, I don't-" he said as he struggled to form a proper response.

"Am I so weak that my grandchild need fear the idiotic hearsay of those that I could squash beneath my foot" said the High King with a frightening steadiness in his voice. A silent fury so lethal, twas akin to a serpent ready to jab the most potent venom into its enemies.

Maglor wisely chose to keep his mouth shut.

For just a moment he could hear Maedhros sending a message through their sibling bond via ósanwë.

'I don't think I've ever seen him like this. Not even after Atar pulled the sword on him'

'Me neither, I can't say I don't share his rage though' (We all do👹)

They didn't dare continue the conversation as Fingolfin continued his interrogation slash venting.

"Have I not guarded our people enough that they would show the barest respect and decency for my blood" 

Now Maglor heard Celegorm and Curufin chime in through the bond. Their trepidation rising with every scathing word Fingolfin spoke. 

'You know I never thought he could get this angry at anyone besides us'

'Turukáno's dead meat' (He is😇)

"I care not what a pack of ungrateful inept peons have to say about me. But to anyone that dare insult that child, may they feel my wrath a thousand fold! I have not walked the coldest ice and bled through these dark lands to see those I took up the fight to defend be stepped on by cowards and deserters" 

...Oh my... 

"As if it is not enough I have been slighted and robbed by my own people. Never mind my own SON! Nay, I learn my only grandson has been made to bear this nightmare and still thinks he need protect me. Protect me? Protect me?! A child! An elfling! I don't care what abilities he has! I will never let my daughter's son throw himself into harms way! I will not have my grandchild live in squalor while I live and breathe!"

Does he think I'd allow it?🤨

"Question me not Makalaurë, for when I find my wayward son. I will make sure I discipline that boy for this affront. Him and all his defectors that dare call themselves lords and scorn a child that pleaded our case to one whose name I dare not speak!" 

Maedhros, Caranthir, and Celegorm took the chance to speak through ósanwë again.

'He pled our case to the One and ended our Doom. This is the height of absurdity. If anyone even thinks of insulting that child our uncle need not step in. For I'll ruin them with every tool at my disposal.'

'Indeed, misunderstand me not for while I still don't appreciate being tossed out a self-made window I do share in or uncle's anger'

'Kinslaying may no longer be an option, but I'm almost excited to see what he does to those knaves. A sentiment I feel you can share Kano'

I most certainly can, but I'm not about to show it given uncle is glaring death at me. 

At this point though, Maglor had a feeling Fingolfin wasn't so much speaking to him but of a long pent up frustration. 

"From now until this world shatters to pieces will I mourn the time I lost with him. But do not think I will dare something happen to Lómion without my knowing. So answer me nephew. Tell me what I am supposed to do and who you think would have the guts to disrespect that child in your home" said the High King with a fire none had ever seen before. 

In my home?!

None! 

He hasn't been subtle with his magic in the least! (He really hasn't...)

Everyone in Himring and the Gap knows it's been him doing all this, and making that death barrier.

By Eru's mercy, they'd all turn on me if I dared mistreat him in ANY way.

I have no doubt Erestor would be the first to assault me with his forge hammer!

But the one who answered the High King would not be Maglor. 

No it would be someone that none would have expected. 

"Contrary to what you might think uncle, Lómion's aversion to the title isn't as odd as you think"

"True words indeed, for we can certainly attest to it"

Maglor, Fingolfin, Fingon, and all his brothers turned to look towards the back corner of the healing halls. Said corner that housed the Ambarussa. Amrod sat in an armchair while Amras sat on the neighboring bed. Both their identical faces graced with what looked like a knowing wisdom to their current plight. 

"What do you mean?" said Fingon with clear question as to what they were implying.

The twins just sighed as Amrod took to answering first.

"Is it really that surprising cousin? Then let me ask it like this. When people speak of the Sons of Fëanor or of your house; who is it they recall first?"

"Do they speak of Fingon the Valiant or Maedhros the Tall? Do they sing and weave tales of Celegorm the Fair or Curufin the greatest smith second to Fëanor himself. Oh maybe they hold councils over whether Lord Maglor holds a greater voice than Daeron the Minstrel of Doriath" 

Everyone took a moment to think as an uncomfortable wrenching worked its way into their guts. 

Maglor moved to speak but was stilled by Amrod when he raised his arm. 

"Aredhel and Turgon haven't been spoken of since their disappearance. The only reason we know anything about Turukáno is because of Finrod, whom Lord Ulmo also gave council. Carnistir has only ever been known for his gift in business management, and only that has recently come to turn" said Amrod with clarity in his voice. 

"However, people still call him 'Caranthir the Dark' on account of his appearance. Not very endearing if you ask me" said Amras with evident distaste at the mention of how their elder brother was portrayed. 

Why am I only hearing all this now?..

"Pityo, Telvo....what are you boys trying to say?" said Maedhros as he tightened his fist on the arm of his chair. A clear grimace appearing on his now clear face. 

"What we are trying to say toron is that while we may be 'princes' we are also hardly noticed or regarded as such by those outside our realm" said Amrod as though he stated the most obvious thing in the world.

They all blinked. 

You've got to be joking..

"People don't recall us because we aren't noteworthy in their eyes. We don't have episses and most certainly aren't counted as great warriors like the rest of you" said Amras as he held his twins hand in a sign of comfort. 

Celegorm nigh lost it. 

"Why are you two only mentioning this now?! If you'd told us-" said the silver hunter with a seething fury before he was interrupted.

"Tyelko, even if we did what difference would it have made?" said Amrod as he quirked a brow at his older brother.

"He's right, don't misunderstand though. We haven't been outright belittled. We're just not well noticed or highly renowned. At first it bothered us a bit but we've grown content with managing Estolad" said Amras as he started fiddling with his red hair. 

This is so ridiculous I almost want to scream. (Please don't, we like hearing😓)

The room was uncharacteristically silent.

The only one not looking disturbed by this whole thing was Caranthir. 

A clear sign that he silently agreed with his baby brothers.

Carnistir truly is the genius of our house. 

"So what is it you're trying to tell me nephews" said Fingolfin with controlled gentleness even though his teeth were clenched tighter than a taut bowstring. 

Both the twins looked at their Uncle for a moment. Their eyes wide for just the briefest second when they heard Fingolfin call them "nephews."

"We're trying to say uncle that we understand where Lómion is coming from. Certainly not for all the same reasons but we can see where his aversion stems" said Amras before he paused for moment. His gaze momentarily flickering to his twin before continuing. 

"For once you bare the title of 'prince' your life no longer solely belongs to you" 

Now I really miss Atar and Amme....

Is this what I've been so blind to...

Since when...(Out of sight out of mind😮‍💨)

Amrod took that as his cue to continue in his brothers place. 

"None here can disagree that Lómion has sadly not been given the respect he deserves"

Those wretches 🔥

"But aside from that look at his father's example. Eöl was the first prince of Doriath and left because the courts practically drove him out. It was only then that eyes stopped looking his way. Renowned, hailed, or held in contempt; once Maeglin's existence becomes known people will talk. They won't keep quiet and it's been made clear he wants no part of that. Let's also attest to the fact he wants naught to do with Doriath. I severely doubt they'll stay quiet, acknowledged or not, if they find out a supposed parmaia is living among the Ñoldor" 

Everyone winced, particularly Maedhros who muttered a silent curse. 

This is why I never got into politics. 

Just the idea of dealing with the mess that idiot peacock has unwittingly caused makes me want to keel over. 

But for all the headaches Maglor was imagining, it would be Caranthir that would shed more light on that particular problem. 

"He's right uncle, and I'm afraid...there's more to the situation that's just come to light" said Caranthir as he stealthily looked away from the uncle that had nigh assaulted him in a mad rage. 

Fingolfin had the decency to look sheepish as he softened his tone when his eyes met those of Fëanor's fourth son. 

"What is it nephew? What have you learned? I'm guessing your spies have been busy" said Fingolfin as his eyes narrowed at the most witty of his brother's sons.

"Indeed they have. Not just mine but Curvo's informants in Nogrod and Belegost as well" said Caranthir as a small grimace graced his face.

Great, I already know I'm not gonna like this (Why ask when you know...pfft).

It just doesn't end does it (Sorry but nope...🤭)

Fingon just reached for his head and let out a tired groan. 

"Aye Valar, what else is there?" (Shouldn't have said that 👀)

Caranthir just winced. His gaze momentarily shifting to the raging elf that nigh made him officially scared of heights (That's why he doesn't fly brooms🤣). Fingolfin noticed and just rubbed his forehead. 

"Carnistir I promise I'm not going to lose my composure or throw anyone through a wall. So can you please just tell me" 

(... hahahaha 😂)

Maglor and his brothers could not help but snort. 

Caranthir went totally red and glared death at his brothers. Particularly Celegorm who was barely holding back his laughter. 

I can't believe he just said that....haha.

The red faced elf just scoffed before coughing and then answering. 

"Well from what I've gathered it would seem that about seven years ago, envoys had been sent to the dwarven realms neighboring Doriath" said Caranthir with a blank expression. 

Fingon looked quite perplexed at that. 

"Thingol sent envoys to the dwarves? For what? I thought he only traded with them through mutual check points or within his own lands" said the crown prince as he quirked a brow at his cousin. 

"Usually yes, but one of the dwarves of Belegost that Eöl was friend to is the niece of King Azaghal. She was my point of contact for identifying Maeglin's father" said Curufin who chimed in with a stern look on his face. 

Fingon and Fingolfin looked surprised. They're eyes widened and quite frankly Maglor couldn't blame them for the hostility between dwarves and elves was renown through every corner of Arda. A conflict that had been instigated by the elves of Doriath when they started shooting and killing the petty dwarves without restraint. Though to be fair, they were a criminal group that brought naught but dishonor to their kin. They were also the vile bunch that tried to double cross Finrod when Nargathrond was first built. Now whether any innocent dwarves had been killed in the altercation, none could verify. But the simple idea that such indiscriminate killings occured was enough to cause lasting political strife between the two groups. So the fact that one of their own was able to form a kinship with one of their royals would have been considered nothing less than a monumental achievement. 

Well usually, if Thingol hadn't been completely ignorant of what such a friendship meant. 

"What was the purpose of their visit? I doubt it was for simple trade" said Fingolfin after he composed himself from the initial shock. 

Caranthir blinked for a moment before his brows furrowed with an annoyed grimace. 

"No, it most certainly was not..."

"Sigh..."

"Uncle, it would seem Thingol was looking for the 'missing' Prince Eöl" 

Maglor threw his grace to the wind. 

His face went pale as a sheet and couldn't control the whimper that left his lips. 

HUH?!

Maedhros' plate clattered and shattered to pieces on the ground at his feet (There goes the last one🫣). The eldest Fëanorian looked like his brain just broke. All the while everyone else looked like they just heard the most ridiculous thing they'd ever heard. Even the twins were left gaping as their jaws dropped and one of their brows was left twitching. It was even more odd that said twitch happened at the same time!

The only one spared from the lunacy was Curufin who just groaned. Apparently the Fëanor lookalike had been made privy to this information ahead of time.

"What?! How?!" screeched Maglor with a pitch so high it nigh nearly cracked the windows. 

"Carnistir you can't be serious?! He's an elf! How could he not know??? Has he finally gone mad!" boomed Fingon as his fist banged against the wall in affronted rage.

Maglor's parental instincts took over. 

"SHHHHH! Watch what you say! Do you want Lómion hearing you say that?! The child's opinion of Thingol is low enough as it is! I don't want him coming to a poor conclusion before he's even met him. Regardless of our own opinion!" hissed Maglor as he chided his cousin like a parent would a child. 

It seemed to work too as the older elf quickly covered his mouth and scanned the room in an instinctual search for his little nephew. 

All the while Fingolfin gave Maglor a look before proceeding to slap his forehead with his good arm. His whole body language clearly screaming how at this point he just wanted to sleep for a week. 

"How??"

"Believe me uncle, I didn't believe it at first until I confirmed the story with Princess Darti. But it is indeed true for about seven years ago Thingol sent his advisor Lord Oropher to inquire into his sons whereabouts. According to Darti, the incident was certainly memorable given he'd practically barged in without much prior notice" said Curufin with anger in his tone. An anger clearly stemming from the utter lack of tact this advisor seemed to carry with the dwarves (He's Thranduil's dad, go figure🙄🤦).

"That's not what we're asking Curvo and you know it. Thingol is an elf! How is an elf not able to sense their child's demise!" seethed Maedhros as his patience was wearing thin. 

"Russo is right. How is that possible? Is he in denial or something?" said Fingon as he looked to Curufin for answers. 

"I don't know Findekáno. I truly don't know. If I did I would tell you. The only theory I have is that Thingol is either indeed in denial or he truly isn't aware. And if that truly is the case, then the same can be said for Queen Melian" said Curufin as he rubbed his head in frustration. 

"But that doesn't make sense! Even if their relationship deteriorated he still should've sensed something?!" reasoned Fingon in clear desperation. 

Funny enough the answer came from the one person who's worked personally with a Vala. 

"It actually might not be...." said none other then Celegorm who bore a pensive look on his face. 

All turned to look at him as his fists clenched in his lap. 

"How so nephew?" 

Celegorm looked almost -content? pleased?flustered?- to be called such a thing by his uncle before schooling his expression again. 

"I've been on hunts with Lord Oromë and spent time among his maiar"

...He hasn't talked about that since we were banished. 

I can't believe he's mentioning this now. 

"The Valar aren't like us.."

As if that hasn't been made obvious 🙄

"Don't patronize me Kano! I see that look. What I mean is that I don't think bonds mean the same to them as they do for us" said Celegorm as he glared at Maglor before spitting out the rest of said facts everyone else hadn't realized. 

Brows went up. 

"How so?" said Maedhros as he quirked a red brow at his younger brother. 

"Isn't it obvious? The Valar don't have children Nelyo and neither do maiar. Don't ask me how Eöl and Luthien are supposedly the exceptions because I really don't know. Nor am I in the mood to start discussing body mechanics. However, what I do know is that if kids aren't natural to them then how would the bonds be as well? The most likely answer is that Melian probably doesn't know what to look for. Yes, she married an elf but many tales spoke of how the bonding changed Thingol. The most pronounced change being his physical stature. So, if wedding her changed him physically then would it not change him spiritually?" said Celegorm as he leaned back in his chair. His audience now left gaping from such logical reasoning coming from the wild card of the family. 

"That's....actually not too farfetched. But still-" said Curufin as doubt still lingered in his mind. As a father himself he found it odd that a parent wouldn't feel a bond with his own child. 

"Oh for goodness sake! Uncle, are you still capable of connecting with Turukáno? Or has the bond weakened after not coming in contact for so long" said Celegorm as he bluntly stated a harsh fact to their otherwise upset uncle. 

Fingolfin looked like he'd been struck before answering.

"...Yes...it has" 

"Atar.."

"Then there you have it. Eöl didn't get along with his parents and clearly didn't have a strong bond with Thingol to begin with. Maybe maiar have to work on their bonds more then normal in order to keep them going. Marriage bonds are natural to them but children aren't. If Thingol's changed to something closer to a maiar then it's not strange to think he can't sense his son if the bond was weak from the beginning" said Celegorm with a huff as he coldly threw evidence in their face. 

Fingolfin once again looked like he'd been slapped. 

"Huh....I don't know what to think of that honestly" 

Maglor finally decided to speak his piece. 

"Uncle, I really care not for being the one to tell you this. However, it seems the rules that usually apply to the eldar don't seem to work the same with Thingol's line. Especially in Lómion's case; I don't believe it need be said that you've sensed what's in his fëa" said Maglor as he gently reminded everyone of the massive energy coursing through the elfling they'd all come to care for. An energy that he seemed to be using for outrageous activities (yeah no kidding🫣)

Half the rooms occupants groaned while the other half winced. 

Fingolfin just looked like a mix of both. 

"Yes nephew, I indeed noticed that. I saw it as my grandson was cuddling my fëa like a kitten. I'm personally surprised I didn't faint from the shock. Speak plainly and just make your point known" said the High King with a VERY tired look on his face. 

Yes, he was doing that because a certain fool left his fëa nearly starved! Then his spawn had to go and make it worse!

Eru save me, when uncle finds out he was doing that in his sleep. 

...Though to be fair...you did faint when you thought Irissë birthed an actual rabbit. 

"Then you already saw one of his bonds is broken" he said as gently as he could but failed as Fingolfin and Fingon sharply hissed at the reminder. 

"We once thought such a thing impossible, even if one of our loved ones perished. However, it seems Lómion's maiaran heritage leaves such standard conceptions in question. We just don't know what rules that would regularly apply to the eldar would pertain to him. He's already spent over 20 years unfed in Gondolin and another 17 months on his own" said Maglor before he was interrupted.

"Oh yes 17 months of him traversing Beleriand, spiking Nelyo's wine, attacking a deranged Vala, breaking dooms, driving us mad with worry, and then planning Aikanáro's wedding to one of the edain. All done while relaxing in his magic tent! Do you know how mad this all sounds?!" spat Celegorm with his usual lack of tact. 

It wouldn't have sounded mad at all if you'd kept your mouth shut!

I still cannot understand why Lómion did that. 

One of the eldar wed to the edain??? I can't imagine Artanis will handle this well if she ever finds out (Well who cares 🙄)

Angrod may not care much for us but even we heard about the manhunt for his lost brother. 

I can't believe that crazy elfling planned somebody's wedding and it involved magic hummingbirds, glowing deers, and dancing swans?! (Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo 🪄)

The rumors were all over the place 🤯

Oh don't even get me started on the tent!

Atar would've spend months trying to dissect that thing!

"Thank you Tyelko for telling everyone what we already know. Is there anything else you'd like to add or are you done" said Maedhros as he glared at Celegorm with a very unimpressed look. 

Celegorm just gave a petulant huff before Maglor took that as his chance to continue. 

"Anyway. The point I'm trying to make is that we just don't know enough about Maeglin's constitution to risk anything. Everyone in the Gap knows of his heritage, and are well aware it's been him enchanting everything he can get his hands on. The elves here respect him and are constantly worried for him" said Maglor but momentarily froze when he saw a cold look grace his uncle's features. 

"..Are you saying my court would scorn him?" said Fingolfin as his steely gaze dug into the grey-blue eyes of his nephew. It almost looked like a lion sizing up its competition for a brawl. 

Why me...😣

"That's not it! But the fact remains that Maeglin seems more comfortable here. People know him and I can attest without question that my people would thrash anyone who DARED to try and hurt him" he said and didn't miss the angry twitch of his uncle's brow. All the while the crown prince wasn't looking any happier than his father. 

"So what are you trying to say cousin? That we should leave Lómion here? On the FRONTLINES!" said Fingon through grit teeth. 

Ever the protective guardian. 

Why couldn't Maeglin have met him first. 

Or Eru, if only Argon had survived that first battle. 

He'd have been a far better uncle (We know😮‍💨)

Why, just why did Maeglin have to first meet that emotionally constipated fool.

I may have seen the memories but it's still so shocking to recall just what that obtuse turkey said to him. 

That heartbreak was just too reeling for any child to bear.

"Cousin, do you think I'd honestly let Maeglin out on a battlefield? Or even remotely near danger if it be within mine power to keep him away from it" he said with solid resolve and was comforted when Fingon's gaze cooled to an annoyed frown. 

If there was one thing Fingolfin's house knew about Fëanor's secondborn. It was that he had Nerdanel's kind heart to a fault. Fingon and Fingolfin knew that when Maglor loved; he loved fiercely. He would never let something happen to those he cared for if he could help it. 

"Uncle, cousin; I'm sorry to tell you this but as you've probably seen. Our dear little elfling has some very serious trust issues" he said and wished he didn't as a near growl came from the throat of Finwë's second son. A growl that almost made Caranthir recoil. Said sibling that took the chance to now mentally scold his elder brother. 

'Kano are you trying to make him mad?!"

"The only reason Maeglin showed up at the Gap was because he thought I wouldn't recognize his appearance. He was never told how similar he looked to Aredhel or you" he said and seriously regretted having to be blunt when he saw his uncle's jaw lock and Fingon's fist tightly clench in his lap. The eldest brother now taking his turn to speak his piece. 

'Toron, you're actually starting to anger Finno. Please be careful because I don't think I'll want to be the one to separate you two'

"I'm not trying to hurt you uncle, but the fact remains. Lómion is slow to trust and is driven beyond reason when he sets his mind to something. You don't know how many times I've had to drag that elfling out of the forge just to eat" he said with the tone of a worried adult. 

Fingolfin stared long and hard at Maglor before something seemed to cool. Whatever that something was, Maglor dared not ask. 

"Ah yes, this extremely detailed foresight. Just how powerful is it? I couldn't glean anything on it when our fëa's made contact" said his uncle with an annoyed tone. The idea that his grandson was still hiding things clearly vexed the older elf to no end. 

Maglor just let out a tired sigh. 

"I don't know much myself. He's been very secretive about that. This revelation about the Balrogs and dragon is the most we've heard him speak of it. At times I question if it even is foresight, it's far too detailed for my liking" (Good intuition🤭)

Fingolfin grumbled. 

"Yes, I've never heard of it being this forthcoming. Not even Artanis ever spoke of attaining such clarity" said the High King with a distant look. 

Celegorm just snorted. 

"Artanis has never been forthcoming on anything. She cared not for our family aside from you Kano. She only ever spent time with you, Nelyo, and Irissë. However, now it would seem she's chosen to prioritize her soon to be husband!" seethed Celegorm as his fingers locked together in a vice grip. His silver eyes clearly promising a screaming match when next he saw her. 

Maedhros just rubbed his head in frustration. 

She chooses to wed during a time of war.

From what Maeglin told us, Aegnor would have never had the chance to wed his love had he not done something because Finrod used such reasoning against him. 

A great slap to the face if there ever was one.

Forget her partner is Thingol's nephew??

Does Finrod even know about this?! (He does not😓)

Wherever Aegnor is, I doubt he'll be happy either.

I can't believe she did such a thing and didn't bother to tell anyone. 

"Yes and how enlightening it was to hear Maeglin be the one to tell us that it was her that told Thingol about Alqualonde" said Maedhros with clear agitation. 

"Quite, I haven't forgotten how fun it was to receive a scathing declaration from Thingol. What a kind letter indeed. Given he'd gone into detail about how he banned quenya and cursed my name with every fiber of his being. I was honestly shocked he threw out even his own brother's grandchildren" said Fingolfin with a very unimpressed look. 

Oh the irony, considering Thingol now shares blood with the very elf he cursed (Karma 😈)

Perhaps Eöl truly was wise in not telling his father of Aredhel. 

I don't imagine it would have gone well. 

That fool of a king is far too impulsive (..You have no idea😓).

"Speaking of that. What is this about fake Silmarills? Why is that so relevant?" said Fingon as he eyed the brother of his heart. 

Maedhros looked pensive to say the least. 

"...I don't know....but I have an idea" said Maedhros as he looked away from his heart brother in shame. 

"Russo...what do you mean?" said Fingon as his expression started paling. A creeping unease now making its way into his bones. He was only saved when Caranthir jumped in. 

"It has to do with Lómion's foresight" said the dark haired elf as his gaze steeled to one of a strategist. Fingolfin looked at his armored nephew in barely concealed trepidation. 

"Before Lómion brought us the Silmarills. Don't glare at me uncle! I'm not happy he did this anymore than you are!" seethed the fourth son as he locked his gaze with the fiery uncle. Fingolfin had the decency to look cowed before Caranthir continued. 

"Hmph, before they were recovered I was having visions. Granted my foresight is paultry when compared to other elves, but I was seeing things that were most unsettling" said Caranthir as his hands tightened together.

There's only one thing that could have driven that boy to do something so mad. 

But please....don't let it be what I think it is (Sorry Maglor..😬)

"What is it?" said Fingon as his hands started trembling. A clear indication that the crown prince was coming to a very unappealing conclusion. All the while the High King's hands were viciously gripping the blankets. 

Caranthir took a deep breathe before steeling himself. 

"I saw conflict-" said Caranthir before swiftly pausing as he seemed to recall something. Said elf's gaze now quickly shifting to himself. 

"Kano, is Maeglin asleep?" said Caranthir with deliberate seriousness. 

For a moment Maglor looked surprised by the question, but quickly understood why he was being asked such a thing. 

Oh...

He doesn't want to risk Lómion hearing this..

Fingolfin and Fingon looked confused. But they soon came to a quick realization as they felt Maglor reach for the bond with their kin. A bond that was strong enough to inform Fëanor's secondborn that Maeglin was indeed asleep in his guest room. A room designated just for him and had since been refurbished with the best furniture money could buy. Maglor almost cooed when he felt the little one fast asleep on the other end of their bond. A bond that Maeglin seemed to unconsciously sense as his fëa momentarily sought his for comfort. Twas almost like a sleepy toddler looking for a hug before being tucked back in. 

Aye Eru, he's so sweet. 

Even now he still seeks affection. 

Maglor regretfully pulled back on the bond so as not to disturb the child's rest. A warm smile evident on his face as he now looked back at his younger brother. All the while Fingolfin and Fingon looked at each other with an unreadable expression. 

"Yes Moryo, he is" said Maglor as the smile quickly vanished when he saw his brother glare at him with childish envy. 

'Tch, show off'

Don't hate me for having spent more time with him 😏

"Eh hem, as I was saying. I saw conflict but...." said Carinthir but he hesitated as though trying to contemplate on how to explain. 

Celegorm was not impressed. 

"Well brother? Don't leave us in suspense now" said Celegorm with a sarcastic quirk of his brow. Caranthir just grumbled at him.

"Sigh, as you all know Lómion clearly does not like Thingol"

He doesn't like "leaders" in general. 

He's more then vented about it to me and Erestor. 

Ugh, mostly Erestor.

Granted he hasn't had the best examples in both respects, but still....

It shouldn't be this bad. 

"He doesn't like Artanis either. It doesn't take much to realize it's his foresight that's making him dislike them. However, he seems to hold apprehension for Thingol aside from the obvious reasons we know. I think he saw Thingol do something that he deemed very foolish, and quite frankly stupid" 

It's more than just apprehension.

Maeglin doesn't respect Thingol at all. 

Not as a king and barely as a grandparent.

I really don't know what do about that. 

I don't want him hating Thingol when he's never met him.

I still don't even know what he thinks of Melian (He's not sure himself🤷)

"I was suspicious before but he verified my concerns after I mentioned Doriath" 

Everyone in the room held their breathe. 

"Doriath?" said Fingolfin with a trepid beat.

"My visions....showed that we would have eventually had conflict with Doriath" said Caranthir as he steadied his resolve for what was to come. 

And there would be fury indeed for Fingolfin now bore a look so fierce none dared to look straight at him. Their Uncle was beyond furious. So much so, that the veins in his neck were now visible for all to see. None of them had ever seen their uncle so angry and frankly questioned how he was ever known as the calm one.  

"What conflict?" seethed the High King as he glared at them with naught but anger at what he suspected was an answer he never wanted to hear again.

For a moment Caranthir internally debated on whether to continue, but it seemed he deemed the matter pertinent enought to risk the consequences. 

"For what it's worth the visions have completely disappeared since the oath being fulfilled" 

Whatever salvation Caranthir hoped to garner from that statement would prove for naught as their uncle didn't look any less angry. All the while Fingon was getting paler by the minute. 

"Sigh. I don't know how, why, or when. But I think, at some point, had Lómion not intervened....."

The tension in the room grew more pronounced with every word uttered. So much so that Maglor struggled not to fidget where he sat.Even Fingon started breathing faster than a horse in full canter.

Until finally the silence was broken when his brother said what they'd all feared. 

"I think Thingol would have somehow gotten his hands on a Silmaril and refuse to return it" said Caranthir as he braced himself. 

Fingon whimpered and fainted.

Fingolfin blew. 

"WHAT!" 

ﾍ( ﾟ益ﾟ)ﾉ

EEEEK! 

Maglor and his brothers were very well about to flee out the room had it not been for a very unexpected savior. A savior that apparently felt the anger radiating off his grandfather. Now while Maglor could not dive into the connection, on account of it still being a bit weak, he could still hear it. Till the world was torn apart would Maglor never let Lómion know he may have very well saved them from severe property damage a second time (hehe🤣).

'Haru?'

As though a volcano had been doused with a glacier. The High King's rage instantly cooled and the fire raging in his soul settled to mere embers. 

'Yes, my little one?'

'Are you alright? I felt you were upset. Are you fighting with uncle?' 

Maglor's heart bled at the shame of being even the remote cause of his heart son waking up from his much needed rest. He felt even more embarrassed that said elfling was the reason they weren't facing possible maiming at the moment. Fingolfin clearly flinched from how observant his grandchild was, and even turned a bit red at being the cause for him waking up. Not very endearing, given he was supposed to be the adult (Like you're any better, scream queen😑). 

Maglor watched Fingolfin heave a tired sigh and rub his head in a vain attempt to soothe an oncoming headache. Though the tone he heard the older elf take with his grandson was no less gentle as he spoke again through ósanwë. A conversation Maglor could only hear; for now.

'I'm not fighting with your Uncle Lómion. Though I'm ashamed to admit I did get a little upset. I'm sorry I woke you. Please hína go back to sleep'

'.....'

'Sigh'

'Haru, please don't fight anymore. I know there's a lot to be angry about, but please can you just try to let go. At least for the sake of your own peace of mind' 

Maglor had a hard time composing himself and quite frankly was annoyed beyond words. He wished to the heavens above that he could chime in and reassure the boy, but that would have been lying. Yes, their families had their differences and indeed it had been centuries since they were remotely in the same place for an extended period. Maglor did not hate his uncle and neither did his brothers. However, when the hostility between Fingolfin and Fëanor grew to unreasonable proportions, they felt it their filial duty to side with their father. However, once their father died, it felt like things could just never be as they were again. Or so he thought until all this happened. Maglor understood Lómion had little care for familial strife. Eru knows one relative by blood may be permanently sundered from him already, but somehow this felt different. Deep in Lómion's fëa Maglor could feel a quiet pain coming from the boy he'd come to care for the past two years. It felt odd and Maglor could tell this wasn't because of Turgon or Idril. 

No it was something else. 

Something, something......old.

It was quiet, and very subtle. If Maeglin weren't actively thinking about it he probably wouldn't have been sensed it at all.  However, Maglor couldn't narrow it down because it was buried too deep for him to pinpoint its origin. Twas so deep, that it was as though the memory were a pebble actively sinking into the depths of a bottomless lake. A lake whose waters were inaccessible to any but its owner. But despite the haze he could certainly sense this pain was related to...

Regret

Bitterness

Jealousy 

Hatred

Loss

Closure

...huh?

What in the world is making him feel this?

He's thinking of someone but who? (Groan, Petunia🤦).

And why does it seem like he dislikes and pities them?

This is too complicated to have just been a passerby (If only..)

Of course he wouldn't get a chance to ponder any further for what Maglor heard the child tell Fingolfin next really left him confused. Though, if he were being honest, it also broke his heart. 

Because it sounded like he had far too much experience on the matter for anyone's liking. 

'Haru, please don't let hate and anger fester. Because once it does, you can't recall anything good. And by the end all your regrets threathen to swallow you whole. Until all your left to think about is what could have been'

Fingolfin looked stunned beyond words. While their bond may still be weak Maglor could feel a very sharp pain making itself known within his uncle's heart. A pain so vivid it would have made him keel over had Maglor not known its cause. For he was feeling it too. 

They both felt immeasurable regret and sorrow from the knowledge that Lómion knew of such things. The boy sounded wiser beyond his years, but at the same time it shouldn't have been him to fill the chasm. Maglor almost wanted to cry or attempt some foolish endeavor to make their whole tumultuous history disappear. Twas a naive thought, but what wouldn't he try for someone who'd go so far for others. For this child's heart seemed to be as big as the Sundering Seas. 

Maglor heard no verbal reply from Fingolfin, but he did feel a wave of warmth sent toward Lómion's bonds. 

Then he heard it.

He heard something he hadn't thought he'd ever hear again. 

Through the bond he shared with Lómion, Maglor heard Fingolfin hum a quiet lullaby. A song that Maglor heard sung to him as a small elfling by not just his father but also his grandfather. Finwë was a loving grandparent and first sung to him that lullaby when he was only 12 years old. It was that very song that hearkened his love of music. Twas a melody that never failed to send him into a peaceful rest. A blissful sleep while ensconed in the warm arms of his mother, father, and haru. 

He had not heard it since he left Valinor. 

To hear it sung again after all this time. 

It sent such warmth coursing through his very being. Lost feelings reigniting and even the dampest hopes seemed tangible once more. 

This was a memory. 

A memory of better times. 

When war, death, and endless sadness was naught but a distant fantasy. 

So that was how it went for a few more minutes as Maglor's uncle finished the song, and could clearly feel Maeglin had fallen asleep again. 

Maglor almost felt guilty when he overheard his uncle say. 

'Good night my little twilight rabbit'

Of course all good things must come to an end as Maglor returned to the chaotic reality he had conveniently exited. The scene before the whole curfuffle had not changed. Well, if anything it did change a bit considering Curufin and Caranthir were now crouched down behind some chairs as though expecting something to be thrown at them. 

Oh how the mighty have fallen. 

But then again the rage of Finwë's sons is nothing to scoff at.

I have no doubt, if given the chance, our Uncle might very well be capable of dealing Morgoth some damage (Ankle stabber😬).

Maglor did feel bad for Fingon though, considering the crown prince was still passed out. Luckily he only fainted on the bed his father lay in, and not face planted right into the floor. 

Milya is by no means going to appreciate such a ridiculous self inflicted injury. 

For a few minutes, though it felt like forever, everyone just stayed still as a statue and said nothing. All the while Maglor watched as Fingolfin repositioned his passed out son to instead rest his head on his father's lap. Only Maedhros seemed to be visibly debating between checking on his heart brother or staying where he was lest he anger the volatile elf any further. 

Of course Maglor's brothers seemed to take that as an invitation to try and interrogate him. 

'Let me guess, Lómion calmed him down?'

'Does no one else find it embarrassing we've been rescued by Irissë's elfling again?'

'Can't be any less embarrassing then the time she pulled you out of a mudpit Curvo. You were crying to Amme for days'

'I was 35 Tyelko! That doesn't count and you know it'

'Looks like Findekáno has officially joined the fainting club'

'Well Nelyo did start it'

'I started nothing Tyelko!'

'If they think this is bad, imagine when they see what Maeglin's theft protections do'

'I actually do kind of want to see that'

'Ambarussa, don't you start. Wait, was it you two that took one of the bottles?!' 

'.....'

This is the fearsome Sons of Fëanor🤦

Thank goodness we're in our own territories because I don't think our reputations would have remained intact otherwise (Will they though? ..hehehe)

Aye poor Fingon, I should have some tea made for him later.

Physically none of his brothers still said anything until finally Fingolfin turned his gaze to them. 

Honestly, their uncle looked downright exhausted. The only comfort being patting his eldest son's head as he lay in his lap. It would have been adorable. Were it not for the fact said son was passed out from the realization of a most wretched truth. Said fact that Maglor was terrified to even entertain. 

If it's truly the case. Then everything makes sense. 

Especially the conditions for the Doom staying broken. 

By all that is good, Maeglin what exactly did you see???

Just what did that fool of an elf Thingol do??! (Dude, you really don't wanna know👀)

"It seems my dignity is all but nonexistent when it comes to you boys" said Fingolfin as he finally schooled his expression into the uncle they usually knew. 

If nothing ends up broken by the time the sun rises I'll consider it a miracle (👀).

"For what it's worth, it's not like we've been acting very princely lately either. Roitaro can certainly attest to that" said Maedhros with a sheepish look on his face. Fingolfin just stared at him with a look that screamed "Oh, so you broke a lot of stuff too😏"

"Hmm, Lómion's doing I presume. You know I don't think I've fully come to terms with the fact my grandson has been traveling via a cleaning tool otherwise used for housekeeping" said Fingolfin with an absolutely blank look on his face. The very idea of saying it out loud clearly making him feel like he was crazy. 

Do you think I've processed it? 😑

A broom...A broom?????

He flies on a broom?? 

Who in Arda came up with that?! (Cleansweep Broom Company, classic wizards🤭)

"I'm going to make it known now that I'm not alright with any of this. Especially considering my grandson seems to have done all this for the sake of stopping another kinslaying" said Fingolfin with casual steeliness. His face may have been blank but his eyes screamed at the absurdity of it all. 

Everyone painfully hissed. 

Maglor looked away, for now his worst realization had been laid at his feet. 

Another kinslaying....

Lómion took the Silmarils to no doubt stop another kinslaying or something else. 

And one instigated in part by his own grandfather. 

I don't know think I want to know how Thingol does it (No. You. Do. Not 😣).

"Uncle.." said Maedhros but he was swiftly cut off. 

"That accursed oath" hissed Fingolfin with a steadiness so frightening Maglor feared the initial calming was about to be in vain. 

"You know I detest that you all swore that thing. I was furious with Fëanaro for swearing such an absurd oath" 

"Now wait just a moment-"

"Do not interrupted me Kanafinwë! I'm not done" 

Maglor gulped and steadied himself to listen. 

"I was furious with Fëanaro for making you all swear it because I knew it would all be in vain. It was an oath driven by anger and loss! Why does everyone seem to forget that Finwë was my father too! I grieved as well and was angry for all the atrocities wrought upon our house. He may have been your grandfather's favored son, and while I cared for your father dearly; it was never right to put you all in that position. Swear the oath or be proven disloyal. That is not a position you ever put your children in; for any reason!"

..Uncle..

"Now my grandson, a literal elfling of a 105, did the unthinkable. He did that to free you all from something my brother cast upon you. It infuriates me even more to hear that he did it to prevent an irrevocable tragedy that may have been instigated by his other grandfather. Are all the royal houses just cursed to forever make irreparable mistakes?? Mistakes that a child has to subsequently 'clean up.' The words my own son spoke to his sister son and the coldness in my granddaughter's eyes will forever haunt me. This boy has been hurt time and time again. I feel like I've failed him before I've even tried to do right by him. Now he's hell bent on protecting us from a foreseeable battle that would otherwise result in unbelievable loss?! What kind of nonsense is this! Why is this child putting himself in this position!? We...I have failed him without even trying. As if it's not enough I know he still hides things!" said Fingolfin with a vulnerability Maglor had never seen before. 

If you have failed, than we have failed thrice over. 

A child should never be left to deal with the mistakes of their predecessors.

Aye he hides things; so many things. 

But what's hidden has finally started to come into the light. 

"There is not a day that goes by where I wish I had tried harder to stop you all from swearing that accursed oath! There is not a moment that passes where I wish none of this had ever happened, but now I can't wish that for if I do I wish my grandchild nonexistent. I am tired of all this misery. Just when I finally have something to shine a light in me; I am told I cannot reach out to it because it fears being with me. I don't care for the crown! I never have, and now it is becoming the cause of my own grandchild pulling away from me?!" said Fingolfin with true grief as a single tear fell down his face. His hands reaching to hold his son closer to him. An anchor for the rampant storm brewing in their uncle's heart. 

I...I never knew he felt like that. 

...If only we had spoken sooner (You are now😌)

Maglor waited to speak no longer, and for once spoke to his uncle with an clarity he had not done for centuries. 

"If you are a failure than I am a joke. He has been here for two years, and yet I could not stop him from using his magic lest he flee. Never have I felt more helpless than when he first sought my fëa in a desperate plea for help. If you regret not stopping us from swearing the oath than I regret stepping up onto that podium. I regret not trying to stop Atar from making my brothers swear it. I was young and I was foolish"

"Kano that.." 

"No Curvo. Do not even try to deny it. I know there was not a day gone by where you feared what the oath could have meant for you and Tyelpe. You are a father and no child should fear their parent being sundered from them to the darkness" said Maglor as he stared right at his younger brother with the authority and wisdom he held as his older brother. All the while Curufin looked like he'd been slapped and dipped his head in shame. 

You know I am right. 

Even if you were the most loyal to Atar, you knew your son should have always come first. 

"This whole thing is so ridiculous. The worst part about all of this is that even if we tried to stop him, he'd just disappear to do who knows what" said Celegorm with sheer frustration. The fact the greatest hunter among elves was admitting such a thing was beyond surprising. 

Celegorm had never looked more defeated than he did right now. 

Tyelko already feels horrible that he was not there to protect Irissë. 

Now her son is throwing himself into danger, and he feels helpless to stop him. 

What a world..

Aye Eru, that accursed cloak really did cause endless headaches. 

What a sneaky mouse.

Where did he even learn all this? (Fred & George 🤭)

"Did he even explain where he got that cloak? A broom that flies and a cloak that makes one hidden. I shudder to think there's more" said Fingolfin as he was on the verge of wanting to just sleep and wish all this away. 

Though there would a profound pause when a certain idea came to mind. 

One that sent all shiver down all their spines. 

...There... there can't be more...

Right? Oh goodness please don't tell me there's more..(There is🫣)

"He didn't but that's beside the point uncle" said Maedhros with sheer exhaustion. The eldest Fëanorian truly just looked about done with this whole conversation. 

Fingolfin just quirked a brow at him. 

"Oh?" 

I suppose I should be the one to finish this given it's my hope to house him here. 

"Uncle, given all that's happened. Our options are realistically let Lómion stay or risk him running off to do Eru knows what. This sneaky pigeon seems to be quite capable on his own and I honestly fear what he might do next. He's a Finwion without question, that child is beyond stubborn. Let's not forget he casually threatened to kidnap Angrod and Orodreth. I don't know about you, but I really don't want to humor him truly doing it" said Maglor with a tone that screamed "Do you really think that crazy boy won't do it? He's done crazier" 

(Sorry to tell you, but he still does it🤣)

Fingolfin and Maedhros simultaneously winced. 

"He...he wouldn't really?-" said Curufin but promptly shut up when he saw the incredulous look on Maedhros' face. 

"He drugged my wine and turned you blue!" screeched the eldest with incredulity at even being asked this. 

Curufin turned redder than his brother's hair. 

"DO NOT SPEAK OF THAT!" seethed Curufin as he clutched his chair in a vice grip and glared death at his brother.

Oh I'll never forget that. 

The beard was a nice touch too. 

Hahahaha. 

That was genius. 

The great smith of the Ñoldor was outwitted by an elfling. 

Hahahahaha

Fingolfin looked amused and really curious about what they were talking about. But decided to forgo asking, lest he risk Curufin storming out to throw a tantrum.

"So essentially if we let him stay here then we can take care for him without risking a literal flight" 

Yes quite literal, considering he can change into TWO birds. 

Then there's the rabbit, which are known to be fast. 

It's like he was destined to cause mischief while able to make a speedy exit (👀).

"Yes uncle" 

"Nephew, even if I were to humor this. This can't go on indefinitely. Someone from my group will eventually see him, and if he wants to visit me then that'll require him coming to Barad Eithel. Plus, he supposedly wants to strengthen the defense around my domain as well. Reports are already coming in about him casting those strange lights, and something about floating boulders?"

Yes, lights that are no doubt creating a barrier stronger than Melian's Girdle. 

If anyone finds out that he can do that...

Aye the boulders! Lómion just what are you planning to do with those?! (You sure you wanna know?👀)

"What am I supposed to do if someone sees him? Say I don't know what they're talking about??"

Well that wouldn't really work given his face is the biggest give away.

He said he could hide it with an enchantment, but an unknown elf walking about in the High King's chambers will garner even more suspicion.

That was when an idea popped into Maglor's head. 

"Wait, didn't he say we'd have to withdraw our forces from Ard-Galen?" he said with wide eyes and a near smile on his face. 

Maedhros' brows rising as he was beginning to understand where this was going. All the while Fingolfin looked a bit perplexed. 

"Yes, he did. But why do you ask?"

Maglor grinned. 

A mischievous cat like grin that probably shouldn't have been on that face. 

"Well we could use that! He'll have to come to your domain routinely to get the barrier up, and if he's going to do something about the forces being withdrawn then he'll have to stay with you for an extended period"

Now it's time to outwit you my dear boy. 

Never underestimate a Fëanorian.

"So?" said Fingolfin as a wicked smile started gracing his uncle's face. 

"So, we let him think he's won, but in truth we can slowly integrate him into all our domains without his notice. We'll tell only our closest seconds the truth so they can moderate should someone see him. If anyone asks or figures out who he is, we tell them to stay quiet and not mention his title till he's ready" he said while being the picture of calm. Though on the inside he knew this whole arrangement was going to be quite the headache. A headache he would gladly take on if it meant Lómion felt comfortable. 

"And how exactly do you plan to get him to agree to come to all our realms. Even if it's for the sake of building the defense, which I'm still not alright with, what's to stop him from just outright leaving while myself or you all are occupied with court" said Fingolfin with reluctant agreement to this ludicrous plan. 

It was then Maedhros Fëanorian showed the brightest grin ever to grace an elf's face. A grin Maglor had seen when his wonderful brother took delight in screwing over certain members of the court that got a little to big for their position. 

Oh this will be fun.

"He can turn into animals can't he? How about we put them to good use" said Maedhros with a pleased smile. 

A smile that made Maglor more giddy then he'd been in years. 

Let it never be said Maedhros Fëanorian never got what he wanted when it came to politics. 

For by the time the sun rose on the next day, a certain elfling had been unwittingly duped into playing house pet for the very elves he'd pranked. 

Though what Maglor Fëanorian could have never guessed was that the madness he'd seen thus far....

Was only the beginning. 

If there were an award for parent of the millennium Maglor probably would have won it over three times by now. Not just for his handling of the elfling he'd taken as his heart son but also for the sake of outright pity. For Maglor seriously doubted anyone else would have handled Maeglin's mischief with about as much grace as he had. It'd been over 12 years since that discussion slash brawl with his uncle and cousin. It'd only taken seven for Maeglin's magic to start becoming the nonstop talk of the Gap and very well the whole of the Fëanorian territories. 

At this point it almost became a game. 

A source of excitement for the resident elves that were otherwise used to constantly fighting for their lives. 

Whenever Lómion wasn't around or was otherwise visiting another member of the family the whispers were unending. 

"What do you think Prince Lómion will do next?"

"This armor is amazing I wish I could learn the technique!"

"Armor? What in Arda did he do the castle??? It's so entertaining to see orcs explode!"

"Have the Golodh defectors still not been found?" 

"I detest our prince hasn't been announced yet"

"Blame the prissy peacocks. I can't wait to see them squirm"

"Those wretches broke the law of the forge!"

"The moment they're found, they'll kiss my forge hammer!"

"They call themselves 'lords', hah! Beep beep $%&@ would be more accurate! Cowards the whole pack of them!" 

"Do you think the prince will show us some of his techniques when he's announced?"

"Our prince is so humble honestly. I hardly see him wear jewelry"

"Still, let's just hope he doesn't faint again. Once was enough" 

"Don't worry I've made sure to serve more food on his plate"

And on and on it went. 

It didn't stop there either for after Lómion activated the enchantment on Fingolfin's castle. 

When he wasn't there! 

There had been rampant panic all across the majority of the city. The only thing staving off utter hysteria was the assurance of the Crown Prince. By the time Fingon had managed to even remotely quell the panic, and fish out Elvion, the King's head advisor, from that haystack. The whole of the territory was ceaselessly talking about what sorcery "The Patron of Finwë" was going to pull next. All the while rumors were spreading from the edain of Dor-lómin that the Ñoldor seemed to have lost their minds (Cuckoo cuckoo 🐦 😅).

Ironically, that may work in our favor. I doubt that insipid silver fly will want to risk "catching" our madness by sending messengers (Perfect repellant 🐛)

How did that boy even get into the castle without anyone noticing?! Both his brooms were here, and no one saw a bird! Elvion said he just appeared in the office as though out of thin air! 

Now Uncle's chief advisor is on the precipice of needing a dire vacation! 

I've known Elvion since Valinor, and not once did I think it possible to see that stern elf give in to the throws of utter panic. 

He actually jumped out a window when he felt that murderous aura (Geronimo!🤣).

And of course Fingon didn't have the heart to scold his nephew for that stunt given he was fast asleep by the time he found him in Uncle's chambers. 

Just how many times must we tell him that YES elves can sense his magic! 

How convenient that edain are utterly unable to sense Maeglin's magic! (I mean they're muggles, kinda not supposed to😏).

By Eru Irissë, why didn't you teach him any prudence! (She would have😅).

Eöl is supposed to be the half maiar so what in Arda is this?! Did that fool think it appropriate his son start making things explode! 🤯 

It didn't get any better from there of course. The armor already created a commotion, but with each castle that became enchanted so to did the gates of said castles have to be locked to outsiders. Not even the twins fortress in Estolad was spared!

Of course they didn't complain, given "orc popping" is officially their new hobby🤦. 

Just what would Atar say about all this?! (He's entertained😅)

By the light of Eä, thank goodness we stopped that boy from spreading the barrier there. It'd have been a disaster if the Doriathrim noticed!

At this point Maglor and his brothers knew Maeglin's magic seemed to go unnoticed by edain. Said fact confirmed mostly on account of Caranthir's limited business dealings or any small groups that were caught trailing through Thargelion once they passed the Ered Luin. Fingolfin's affiliation with the edain of Dor-lómin was especially helpful in making that final deduction. Now while it was comforting to know edain remained ignorant, they were still clueless as to whether dwarves would notice. 

Curufin was friend to the dwarves and while he did not question the honor of the one's he knew. The other wandering groups or nobles from more aggressive factions were too unpredictable. If any of them found out about Lómion's armor, it would start a trade war so fierce people might actually go poor within a day (Auction war😓). Maglor, Curufin, and Caranthir were especially weary of what would happen should the armor become known to the petty dwarves. They were a very dangerous bunch and had nearly killed Finrod in his sleep. 

They were also the only dwarven group that disgusted Curufin to no end. 

Regardless dwarves were not known for their tact. They may be good at keeping their craft secret, but the same could not be said for when it really counted. Dwarves could have a mouth at times and too many of their territories were already neighbor to Doriath for comfort. All it would take is one slip for the Doriathrim to grow suspicious. Eöl was a renowned smith and none would think it odd to think said prince had been the one responsible for the creation of this new commodity. 

Armor that protects against dragon flame and can take you to the nearest healing halls upon serious injury. 

It's beyond genius and Atar would have relentlessly tried to learn the craft. 

So with that the doors of the Fëanorian castles were shut and would remain so for the foreseeable future. Twas honestly a relief Maglor's uncle was now in on this fiasco because his elves were probably about the only ones that came by. Any missives or requests for meetings from Nargathrond had to be denied. Maeglin had made it very clear that neither Finrod nor his house could find out about the Silmarills, and having them sense this oppressive aura would have left the curious fool with nothing but questions. 

I personally have nothing against Findarato, but he is a ceaseless tweeting bird when it comes to learning new things (Gossip girl😏)

Show him something new and he'll hound you for years to come. 

One of the worst parts of this whole mess was that Maeglin truly did seem to be the only one among their ranks that could probably work the runes on the armor. Curufin had relentlessly tried to learn the technique, but it eventually became clear that he simply lacked the energy required to power the runes. He could craft them, but they were otherwise decorative without an energy source. The most the great smith ever managed was an "unbreakable" rune. Lómion said that was the most basic rune in his repertoire and could otherwise be very useful in a tight spot. 

That did nothing for Curvo's pride though. 

Especially after he passed out from finally empowering just that one rune. 

It infuriates him to no end that yet another deficit between the eldar and maiar has been made apparent.

I may have never been to Aulë's forges, but Curvo was not lenient in detailing the arrogance of some of those maiar. 

Apparently there was one particular incident where a former chief maia? Whatever🙄. Seemingly angered him beyond recourse (Saruman😑). 

Maglor wouldn't have put it passed his father to become fed up with such an environment.

Honestly, just what was going on in those halls (A lot..)

I'm no smith but I wasn't deaf to Atar's endless complaints to Amme. 

Long story short, the majority of the Fëanorian territories were on lock down. It was with great reluctance that Curufin had to stop inviting dwarves to Aglon lest they sniff out the happenings of their nephews magic. Curufin and Celegorm nigh had a panic attack when they saw what Lómion could really do. It was so bad the whole family had been summoned for an emergency gathering. This was beyond serious and Maglor shuddered what would happen if anyone, especially dwarves, found out about it. 

Turning a quill into an arrow. 

Being able to change one thing into another with just a thought.

That's....

He could literally make weapons from just touching something. 

Oh my word.

Thank goodness Curufin had that long talk with him because I don't think I'd have handled that very well. 

That's a trait of Aulë's maiar if there ever was one (They actually can't do that😏). 

At this point he was legitimately terrified another Vala was about to show up and try to kidnap this child. Honestly, many of them silently wondered how they hadn't heard anything from the Valar by now. Maeglin broke the Doom of the Ñoldor by leave of the One. There's no question the Doomsman is either extremely angry or very perplexed right now (The latter😉). It was only the confirmation that this had been done with the authority of the world's creator that Maglor even found it safe to sleep at night. Many a time he was terrified the strange Valar of Dreams, Lord Irmo, would steal his soul in his sleep and cast it into the void in retribution for this affront (He's very offended by that). Maybe he was overreacting (yes you are😑), but you could never be too sure. 

Though it would be when Lómion turned a 112 that things really started getting interesting. 

Maglor Fëanorian would never admit to anyone but his older brother that he was maybe not thinking straight when his heart son had inquired to him about the oldest elf in middle earth. 

Granted he was touched that Lómion had sought his council. He absolutely adored that Maeglin listened to him, and was being more honest with his needs. 

Though I still have to make sure he doesn't risk his health by overdoing it again 😓.

Left alone, he'd pull another all night escapade. 

Sigh...

Well at least he's more conscious about how we worry for his health. 

He's not shy about seeking out my fëa now either. 

Call me a fool but I'd gladly duel Eöl for that boy. 

He's so sweet.

Well...when he isn't doing something crazy..

I'm honestly surprised he was so forthcoming about his plans for the old shipwright.

He may have stayed calm when Maeglin asked, but after he left was a different story. As soon as Lómion left to visit his grandfather, Maglor immediately saddled a horse and made for Himring. To say his eldest brother agreed with his concerns would be an understatement. 

Though-

Maybe I shouldn't have broken down his office door....again (No door is safe with you😑).

"Kanafinwë Makalaurë! For the love of Eru, STOP BREAKING DOWN MY DOOR!!" 

Not my proudest moment.

He let his brother rant a bit before he got to the heart of the matter. 

"Lómion wants to talk to Cirdan? Why? I mean, tis true he asked me about what he was like. But.." 

"He said he wanted to try and see if he'd take in the edain and stray elves once Dorthonion fell" he said with an almost proud tune. 

"Really? Why would he-" said Maedhros with a hint of surprise before he was cut off. 

"Nelyo in case you haven't noticed Maeglin is extremely kind. He said he didn't want to dump such a situation on Cirdan with no warning to speak of" he said as he took a seat across from his brother's desk. 

"But? What is it Kano? I know you wouldn't destroy my door, again, without there being a reason" said Maedhros as he rested his hand on his right hand. 

"Alright fine! I admit I am worried for Cirdan's safety" he said with a petulant huff. 

Maedhros looked quite surprised. 

"You're concerned for Cirdan's safety. Cirdan the oldest and most seasoned warrior in all of Beleriand. The same elf that is favored by Lord Ulmo himself. The renown eldar that seems to be the only wise one among all the fool elves seemingly running amock" said Maedhros with sheer sarcasm. 

"Don't patronize me Nelyo! This is Lómion we're talking about! He got the jump on you with no issue and makes any security we attempt look like child's play. Don't even pretent to deny he's still hiding tricks! I do not fear him injuring Cirdan, but I do worry that elfling will 'accidentally' do something that may otherwise damage poor Cirdan's pride! We have enough people hating us and I don't want him getting added to the list because our dear nephew decided to 'heal' him with no forewarning" he screeched as he slammed his hands on his brother's desk. An embarrassed wince now making itself known on the eldest brother's face. 

"Fine you have a point. Shouldn't you at least be happy Maeglin actually talked to you about this. He seemed to be getting closer with everyone too. I certainly can't say I dislike using his tent on our hunting trips" said Maedhros as a pleased smile graced his figure. 

That tent is luxurious and downright insane. 

Traveling while comfortable? And sleeping in a bed while on the road?! Who'd have ever imagined. And a strange cold box that can preserve food for long periods?! Unbelievable. 

Forget that his bathing chambers can actually produce hot water! With scented baths??

"Of course I'm elated with his honesty, but that does not alleviate my concerns. How many times have we told him to tone down his magic or at the very least not enchant something while thinking it won't be noticed. Let's also not forget that incident where he passed out from overdoing it" he said with a tired voice as he rubbed his forehead. 

Uncle and Fingon were not happy about that at all. 

At least uncle actually lectured Maeglin for that stunt. 

Plus there's also the other theory that makes me worried.

Maedhros looked pensive to say the least. Several memories clearly playing in his head as he recalled all the incidents their nephew had instigated. All with an innocent, well somewhat, look on his face. 

For whatever reason he seems convinced his spells are meant to stay veiled. 

Almost like he's done this several times before...

Maedhros just sighed as his head still rested on his hand. 

"Alright fine, I can't say I don't disagree with you. I'll write a letter to Cirdan, but before I do; did Maeglin tell you how he planned to approach Cirdan?" said Maedhros with a tired look on his face. 

"He said he'd do it as the falcon, and present him with a letter" he said and almost looked miffed as he did. But he wouldn't be the only one as Maedhros' brow visibly twitched at the mention of letters. 

That sneaky little Balrog played us like the strings of a harp. 

Here we were plotting to catch him, and he was there in the room!

That little mole was probably cackling his head off the whole time! (He was🤣)

Irissë's spawn indeed.

I hope your proud Aredhel because he takes after you alright 🤦.

"I hope you realize he probably won't be happy. But then again I can't feel that upset about spoiling his favorite trick" said Maedhros as a sadistic grin made its way onto his now clear face. 

"Indeed, but he'll probably be rather miffed" he said and couldn't help the snort he let out. 

Sorry pitya, but all bets are off when magic is involved. 

"...Wait, Kano-" said Maedhros as his eyes momentarily widened when he recalled something. 

"Yes? What's wrong brother?" 

".....Did Maeglin say he was bringing Cirdan gifts?" said Maedhros as his face started going pale. 

Maglor felt his heart stutter. 

...oh no...

In a hairsbreath Maglor recalled what Maeglin defined as "gifts." The thoughts racing so fast he could have sworn he was breaking into a nervous sweat.

Carnivorous bottles

Exploding hands

Murderous enchantments that make a siege impossible

Indestructible armor

Supposed glowing deers

Dancing swans

Flying broomsticks

Light boxes

Medicines that restore severed limbs at the cost of your sense of taste being destroyed.

(Skele-grow tastes horrendous 🤢)

Quivers with endless arrows

Bottomless pouches 

Arm bands that amplify your voice.....

....to the point it creates craters...

(He tested that gift😬)

Oh Eru Ilúvatar save me. 

Actually scratch that.

Save Cirdan!

Maglor needed no sibling bond to see his brother was thinking the same thing. 

He'd be a fool to even ask!

For as soon as his gaze landed on his red haired brother. Maglor felt a wave of pity wash over him. For Maedhros Fëanorian had the blankest and most counterfeit smile to probably ever be seen on an elf's features. 

〒▽〒

A few tears even escaped his poor brother's eyes as he was no doubt recalling the foul brew that almost destroyed his taste buds. Never mind made him feel like all his bones were going to pop out! If not for the need for liquid relief these past few months, he probably would have never touched a drop of wine again!

Oh Nelyo... 

Maeglin you are most certainly not to be taken lightly...

"Nelyo....perhaps that letter should include an apology"

".....just in case"

Maedhros just turned to look at his brother. 

"Ah yes, perhaps it should" said Maedhros with vacant eyes and a pale palor. 

He's really never getting over this, and I can't blame him. 

Aye Amme, your eldest could really use some comfort right about now. 

By the time the day was up, Maglor had spent the remainder of the morning silently comforting his overwhelmed brother. Though in truth one could say he was also seeking to comfort himself as well. It was only when Maedhros finished writing the letter, that detailed numerous apologies and warnings, that Maglor was able to breathe a sigh of relief. It was a few days later that they decided to ask their uncle to send a letter as well. Twas one thing to have an apology from the eldest Fëanorian, but twas another to have one written by the High King. 

This should at least mitigate any damage. 

Please, please don't let something happen. 

For all Maglor's concerns nothing indeed would occur. 

Well to the elf he was worried for that is. 

For by the time Maeglin departed for the coast, and had made his way back from visiting the oldest elf in Beleriand. 

A dire foreboding announced its presence within Maglor's fëa. 

A sense of dread so profound, that there was little question it came from a certain elfling, that most assuredly, was very upset. 

Maglor was having tea with Maedhros in Himring when it happened. 

The promise of doom was so intense they both spluttered and dropped their cups. 

Their expressions were pale as the white sands of Sirion. 

Oh no.

"Nelyo.." 😰

But he'd get no further

For now any hope of flight, had most assuredly vanished. 

Tap

Oh dear...

Tap Tap

Don't tell me...

Tap! Tap! Tap!

Maeglin you wouldn't..

Tap! Bang!!! Rattle! 

"Kano the window!!!" 

"What?!!? Ahh!" 

When Maglor Fëanorian turned to look at the window. Where the seeming noise was coming from. He was left in aghast fright. For staring at him and his brother with a withering gaze...

Was a very upset falcon. 

A falcon that clearly was about to throw a tantrum. 

Given he was jabbing the window like a freshly caught catch. 

The look in its eyes said one thing.

(⓿_⓿)

"You ratted me out!(╬▔皿▔)╯"

I didn't even think a bird could look like that.

Maedhros was clearly a bit put off. The puffed up feathers and angry squawks certainly not helping their growing unease. 

I knew he'd be upset but my word. 

If there was anything to be grateful for right now; it was most certainly the glass keeping their feathered nephew out. At least for the moment. 

Maeglin may not be able to get in (He can😅), but the duo certainly didn't want to see him try (No you don't😏).

A feather explosion was not what anyone needed!

All the while the squawks were getting louder and the incessant tapping more fervent. 

"Kak, kak, kak!"

"Kano do something!"

"Me?! You're the one who wrote the letter!"

"At your suggestion!"

"Well what do you want me to do?!"

"Anything! Hurry up before he breaks my window or someone hears this!"

Aren't you supposed to be the eldest?! 

Grahhh! Come on think! Think! 

What always seemed to work with upset elflings??😣

Oh!

"Nelyo, sweets! He likes tarts!"

"Really??"

"Just try!"

Bang!! Rattle!

"kee-eeeee-arr!"

With resolve that stemmed from centuries of battle experience Maedhros approached the window that looked like it was about to give at any minute. The falcon only seemed to stop when he came right up to him. Of course that didn't seem to quell the puffed up feathers, spread wings, and petulant glare it seemed to be giving them with its black beady eyes. 

And people wonder why I like his rabbit form better. 

"Nephew" said his brother as one would when approaching a startled animal. Though in this case it was very peeved one.

The falcon only let out a shrill cry. 

"Alright Lómion, alright. I know you're upset" said Maedhros as he put his hands up in a placating gesture. 

A scathing "chirp" that really sounded more like a "hmph" was all he got. 

As odd as it is that he's doing this as a bird. I must say it's rare to see him actually angry about something. He's usually very calm or just doesn't care to dwell on things. 

It's a fresh change to see him being more honest with his feelings. 

I wonder if maiar take on the tendencies of the forms they change into (More so for an animagus🤭)

"Nephew, come now. Are you really angry with me?" said Maedhros with a faux glumness ment to garner sympathy. 

The falcon at the window just gave another high-pitched cry. A clear "yes" if there ever was one. 

It's times like this I wish I could use ósanwë with him (Soon😏).

Maedhros momentarily shared a knowing look with Maglor before making his move.

"Then I must apologize for hurting your feelings" 

The falcon went still and sharply looked at his brother. The puffed feathers now seemingly starting to settle. 

'Keep going Nelyo'

"It was not my intent to make you think I didn't trust you. Nevertheless I owe you an apology and perhaps some compensation" said his brother with an honest and sly look on his face. 

Their feathered nephew now looked like a regular falcon again. His feathers were finally down and one claw came up to paw at the window. An evident request to be let in. 

Maedhros only hummed as he slowly opened the window and held out his arm for Maeglin to perch. 

An accepted invitation, as their nephew readily made to rest on it. Though as soon as he did a tilt of his feathered head and a questioning "chirp" subsequently left his beak. 

Translation: What are you gonna give me for tattling? 

'Well look at this child'

'He's his mother's son alright'

"Hmmm now what should it be? Oh yes, perhaps tarts? Kano told me you seem fond of them" offered his brother with a charming smile. 

As soon as Maedhros mentioned tarts the bird on his arm actually started tapping his feet and bobbing his head in excitement. All signs of a tantrum now gone. 

Maedhros and Maglor almost felt victorious until Maeglin suddenly put a claw up. He held it up for a just a minute before he put it down and put the other leg up. The two were momentarily confused until they put the meaning together. Maedhros just snorted as he found the behavior quite endearing. 

"I suppose that means you want quite a few tarts?" said Maedhros as he quirked an indulgent brow at the falcon that replied with a bob of his head. 

'Well well, what a greedy chick we have here Kano'

'Naughty and clever too. Whatever shall we tell our brothers about this child's greed for sugar'

'I imagine whatever we tell them; they'd just indulge it'

Indulge and probably make worse.

"Alright Maeglin, how about a full plate of tarts. That sound satisfactory to you?" said his brother with a smile on his face. 

Maeglin just replied with a jubilant squawk before climbing up his brother's arm and nestling himself on his shoulder. Maedhros couldn't see it, but from behind his brother Maglor got a front row seat to his nephews tail feathers shaking in sheer delight. 

Okay, that's cute.

Maedhros and Maglor just chuckled as Maedhros took to petting Maeglin's feathered head for the rest of the day.

Maglor and his nephew rode back by the time the sun started to set. 

Now, as for what occured after the incident. 

Well..

That certainly would be quite a tale, for not even a few months after Lómion's trip to the coast. Another revelation was about to come Maglor's way. One that he would have been hard pressed not to address. 

Considering a forge hammer just made a near collision with his head. 

Said hammer that belonged to his personal forgemaster and chief counselor.

His closest friend.

Who right now looked about ready to tear someone's limbs off while swearing up a storm. 

"Hû ú-gaun!" (Cowardly dog!)

 "Le fuion!"  (You digust me)

Mítho orch!!!!  (Go kiss an orc!!!!)

I see his Sindarin vocabulary has become more extensive. 

Well at least Lómion's already in bed...(He kinda heard😅).

Maglor just sighed and blankly watched as Erestor continued to rage for a few more minutes. Of course his best friend just had to come and pitch a fit when he was in the middle of having a rare respite from his duties. He had been relaxing in his study not ten minutes ago, while enjoying a glass of Dorwinion. The special wine that his brother had been kind enough to donate, given he was now in charge of damage control. 

Of course given we know a battle is coming; Nelyo didn't hesitate to order a cart's worth of the stuff.

Might as well procure while we still can. 

Given the last few years, I suspect we're going to need it (You will👀)

As Maglor thought to himself he could not help but momentarily think back to all the times he'd shared with this elf. Erestor had been his friend and close confidant since Valinor. Erestor had been born the son of one of Finwë's close advisors. However, Erestor was an odd duck among the flock given he never settled for just one craft. Lómion once called such a person a "jack of all trades." Maglor didn't know who "jack" was, but Lómion had described the term as being a reference to someone who was multi-talented. Certainly an accurate description; given Erestor was not just a talented smith but also a genius counselor, scholar, and political strategist. They'd both been born around the same time and not once did Fëanor ever have anything bad to say about the boy who frostily scowled at Maglor whenever he whined about his "royal" lessons. They'd grown close in later years when tensions between the family began to rise. By the time they'd been exiled and landed on the shores of Beleriand, Erestor's father had been killed during the Dagor-nuin-Giliath. The ner was one of the guards protecting Fëanor when the Balrogs came. That day the Fëanorian's lost their king, but Erestor lost his father. Two sons who'd lost their fathers to a violent war that was theirs by choice. While neither of them regretted that choice, a bitterness and glumness had seeped its way into the heart of his friend. Not once in all the years following his father's death did Erestor truly smile or feel energetic about anything. Only a dark gleam ever made itself known whenever Erestor slayed Morgoth's foul ilk. It'd only gotten worse by the time he'd been captured. He'd been taken captive after a routine scouting party was attacked by a hidden ambush. By the time any reinforcements came, the survivors could only reveal that the remaining elves had already been taken to Angband. 

Maglor's heart shattered a thousand fold when he heard that report. 

He'd already lost so much and now he had lost his best friend to guaranteed pain and torment. A horrid fate he'd seen his eldest brother subjected to for nearly a decade before his rescue.

A rescue propagated by Thorondor at that.

I still couldn't believe it when Fingon said that eagle just randomly showed up offering to help save Maedhros (👀).

Then he just conveniently vanished in the commotion (😏).

So given what it'd taken to free his brother; who'd already been outside the fortress. His reaction to the horrid news made nothing but sense. 

He was so angry, especially when he knew he could not hope to mount a rescue. Fingon was one thing, but he was no fool to believe any of Manwë's eagles or maiar -period- would think of helping a Fëanorian. None had ever breached the walls of Angband and survived. None had ever come out of that living nightmare unscathed. 

None had ever brought any hope that destroying that place was even possible without the power of the Ainur. 

Well-

Until now that is. 

When a certain magical part maia elfling decided to go nuts, and crumble that solid belief like a child's stacked blocks. 

The day Maglor heard a large group of healed thralls had arrived at his fortress was the day he shed so many tears he nearly passed out. Because the one leading those thralls to his gate was his best friend. His heart brother that been healed in both mind and body. That day was the first time in countless centuries that Erestor smiled again. Maglor practically tackled him to the ground in a crushing embrace. He may have been gone for only a week, but to him it felt like centuries. A relief words couldn't even begin to describe. However the sentiment could most certainly be shared, given many families and spouses had finally been reunited with their loved ones. 

And it was all because of Maeglin. None would have believed it had they not seen it. For all the injuries and pain the former thralls endured; it all literally just vanished in one night! Injuries and scars thought to be so severe that only the Valie Estë would be able to heal. Even then the scars of their minds would have lingered. 

But they were gone. 

All of them!

Reduced to nothing but a hushed echo of a nightmare now ended. 

Because of their saviors miracle medicine, and apparent willingness to storm Angband alone!

I'm still not okay with that!

Nor ever will be!

Who does that?! (👀...oh dear)

Twas even more shocking for everyone to learn that not just some but all the thralls had been rescued. Various groups sent to different parts of the Fëanorian territories. The rescued victims weren't stupid. They knew this was done on purpose. A kindness given by the one that had saved them. For all that'd been rescued knew that once captured, few of the remaining elven territories would have looked to their coming with any pity. A blight and stain cast upon them by those that didn't know or refused to acknowledge their suffering. 

All because many believed the thralls were forever puppets of the enemy's will. 

The majority of such horrid whispers originating from the Sindar that had spent all their lives in the Girdle (Melian didn't know that🤦).

So the gratitude of Erestor and all that'd been saved was simply immeasurable. 

This was a debt that could never be repaid. Not even with all the time granted to them. So imagine everyone's frustration at not being able to remember their saviors face. Out of all the thralls Erestor seemed to be the only one who'd fought the enchantment hard enough to vividly recall Lómion's voice (Dude's stubborn😅). When first asked following their arrival, a good number of the refugees recalled his voice. But with each day that passed it was like the memory was becoming hazed. Like a fog that'd come to veil the details of an intricate stone carving. 

Erestor, being the stubborn mule that he is, held out the longest. He clung to the memory of his saviors voice like a wolf scrambling for survival. A thin string of memory that still existed because he refused to let up his grip; no matter how strong a wind tried to take it. 

Erestor wanted to thank them.

He wanted to remember them.

And in whatever way possible; he wanted to be of some help to the one who'd shown such selfless kindness. 

However, what the educated, gifted, and stern ner didn't count on; was how young his savior actually was. 

Never was there a day Maglor saw his chief advisor more stunned than the day he met his savior and learned the boy's actual age. 

By the time Maglor returned from his screaming session in the forest. Erestor was still in his office staring off into the void with a vacant look on his face. The dropped documents still scattered around his feet. For a minute Maglor thought the shock had actually killed him. 

Twas even more embarrassing what it took to snap Erestor out of his stupor. 

....Oh yes...

I actually had to slap him (Gently😓).

.....

It need not be said they never spoke of that incident again. Because should he ever mention it to another being, living or dead, Erestor would be the one that killed him. 

If the opportunity ever presents itself. I have no doubt he'd torch the tapestry depicting that memory with a smile on his face. I doubt Lady Vairë would be able to stop him (Chills 😰)

But returning to the scene before him. 

Maglor knew his friend well enough to realize that there were only three things that could make the usually composed ner this angry. 

1. Lómion did something to compromise his health again.

2. Erestor heard the Sindar pulled another outlandish stunt that would make everyone hate them even more. 

3. Another deficit in Lómion's education has just come to light (Ding Ding 🔔, we have a winner 🏆).

Ah yes, what a fun time it was to learn Lómion had gaps in his education because a certain overbaked turkey didn't think to give him lessons. 

I won't even get started on that presumptuous brat that thought she was receiving a wedding proposal 😑.

Idiocy to reach the skies. Just thinking about it makes me feel like my mind's going to rot. 

Was it really so difficult to, oh may chance....ACTUALLY ASK HIM!

I've never seen Erestor so furious. 

He detests fools who don't practice any form of common sense!

The fact those idiots didn't think to teach him Ñoldoran culture was downright sickening. 

Then they use said ignorance to belittle him. 

.....

@$%*!

"They assumed I knew everything about the Ñoldor" or "They never asked" were the endless excuses his poor nephew gave him. 

Were he not trying to maintain his composure and set a good example (🤨). Maglor and his advisor would have immediately stormed the nearest eerie and threathened one of those prideful eagles to take them to Gondolin at once!

With an army of course, and their uncle!

Let's see that arrogant pig stand against his father. 

I'm living for that day! (So am I😇)

Just imagining those witless knaves squirm makes me giddy (Don't tell your kid that😅)

As if threatening an elfling wasn't enough; now those wretches thought it prudent to deprive him of a proper education because their empty heads are stuck in a prettied flower field! 

Have those delusional fools taken to smoking a weed that addle's their wits?? (No shire yet, sorry)

Have they finally gone mad?!

It's like they're asking to be mauled?!

If so, I'll happily oblige 👹

Contrary to the edain and dwarves that provided education based on one's station (Middle ages based🤔). The elves were a people that provided equal education to all members of their society. In Valinor elves were free to pursue their craft and attain an education without fear of being short on coin. For all the lessons were provided for free by one who'd been granted the title of scholar. Erestor, being a renowned scholar in fact, prided himself on giving such lessons to the handful of elflings that'd been born in the Gap and the rest of his brothers territories. Before his rescue, it was one of the very few things that kept the ner from succumbing to the Doom of fading. Erestor valued the education of children more than he valued his own life. He didn't give one damn about Thingol's stupid decree that banned the use of quenya. If someone wanted to learn then Erestor would teach them. If anything the gifted scholar thought this "great king" to be nothing but an idiot for doing such a thing. Thingol may have been right to his anger, non would dispute it, but to ban a whole language was both rash and stupid. The reasoning being that quenya was spoken by not just the Ñoldor, but all the elves of Valinor. It's even funnier when one stops to realize that Queen Melian is actually fluent in quenya. A fact confirmed by Finrod during his stay in Doriath. 

That fool banned a language his own wife speaks 🙄.

He's really not helping his case with Maeglin (Nope).

So imagine how fun it is to hear your savior, an elfling, and prince had been deprived of such basic education because a certain deserter "assumed" the child just knew everything. 

Well....

Given the perpetrators were still absent.

Someone had to suffer. 

So in short; it was a bloodbath. 

A vicious slaughter of two orc packs was what it took to somewhat calm the elf that had his pride and craft shamelessly spat on. 

"Testing the effectiveness of the Prince's armor" he said. 

Does he think me an idiot?

And every orc captains hand just "happened" to be smashed beyond recognition (Payback?😬)

Of course he had help, given the formal thralls went on an utter rampage when they found out. 

First the forge law then the education. 

Well, someone's in for broken bones. 

Kinslaying may be off the table, but maiming isn't. 

Many orcs died that day and Maglor didn't lose a wink of sleep over it. 

He did however have to hand it to Erestor. He could be quite the mothering hen where Lómion's health was concerned. For all Erestor's "charm," he was someone that could care for others with the ferocity of a hurricane. 

Funny thing, given the subject of his mental ponderings had finally calmed down enough to settle himself on the couch across from his own. He didn't even ask before swiping the wine bottle and pouring himself a drink. 

Maglor just quirked a brow at him. 

A look Erestor didn't care to even acknowledge. 

"Not even going to ask?" 

Erestor just huffed. 

"Do I need to?" said the stern counselor as he chugged the wine in one gulp before pouring himself another glass. 

Well I suppose I must withdraw the question given you already had some. 

My word I'm glad he doesn't act like this in front of the children. 

Maglor just let him sip a bit more of the calming Dorwinion before he decided to inquire into the elf's reasoning for putting a dent in his wall. 

"Dare I ask what's gotten you upset this time?...Is Lómion alright?" he said with a hint of knowing sarcasm before turning serious at the mention of his heart son.

Erestor gave him a tired look before breathing a sigh. His features now somewhat softening. 

"Peace, my lord. The young prince is well. I just saw him off to his chambers before he retired for the night" said Erestor as a gentle look could be seen on his countenance. 

Maglor let out a small sigh of relief. 

"How is he?" he said as he hovered the glass before leaning back into the couch. 

"He is the same as the last dozens of times you've asked me my lord" said Erestor with a small smirk. 

Hmph.

"Can you blame me for routinely inquiring into his well-being?" he said with an unimpressed look on his face. Said look that didn't really reach his eyes. 

Erestor just gave him a small smile as he too relaxed a bit from the recent tension.

"Of course not. I worry for him as well. I know you care for him as a son my lord, but had you not claimed him I would have taken that child to ward. How he was ever left alone for even a week is just beyond me. Do you think it eases my concern to know he has fainted twice within not even the first two years he made himself known to us" said Erestor with a displeased purse of his lips.

Maeglin's pale face came to mind as Maglor recalled the first time he met the boy. The day he fell off his horse was forever seered into his skull. 

I thought my heart was going to stop. 

He was so still...

Thank the Allfather for Tarion's quick reflexes.

Just recalling the day he fainted into his plate makes me want to cry. 

It took every once of restraint I had not to take him to the healing halls the second I laid eyes on how exhausted he looked. 

Then it turned out he had fëa sickness to boot. 

Ugh..🤦

"I know I've said this before my lord"

You've said it so many times I've started to hear it in my sleep.

Then again that could be Lord Irmo trying to mock me (Not him😅).

"But I still do not favor the prince not being announced or granting him his proper titles. Think me not a fool. I understand why and reluctantly must capitulate lest we risk hurting him. However, I was raised to call even your father "sire"  when I was apprenticed to him in the forge. Prince Lómion is of the noblest descent I have heard of, yet here I am made to call him by his name with no title to speak of. That is an honor I have not earned my lord; especially given all he's done. I know it is by his leave, but I cannot help this nauseating feeling that I am spitting on the hand that saved me and our whole people. I am not the only one who shares these thoughts" said Erestor with a hint of emotion he rarely ever showed. The wine glass now left to sit in the advisors lap as though it were a sign of defeat. 

Do you think I'm pleased with any of this?

But the sad reality is that Lómion would not take well to you calling him "prince" at all.

He'd probably be uncomfortable that you call him that even in front of me (He would😓).

"What would you have me do my friend? You know the reason as you heard the confession from his very mouth" he said with such sadness it almost tore his heart. 

That day. 

That horrid day when Maeglin let all the giref and loneliness he endured be known; was the day Erestor promised vengeance against those that had wronged him. 

Twas a day the foregmaster before him would never forget, and almost wished he could given the tightness he could see on the ner's face. Erestor was barely holding it together as is; if the white knuckled grip on the wine glass were any indication. 

Were it not for the wine, Maglor had no doubt Erestor would have been physically trembling from rage right about now -or again- given he'd already done so not an hour prior. 

"I will make them pay for their crimes my lord. All of them! I am not satisfied just knowing that airheaded thief has been disinherited from the throne. I'd sooner fling myself from the nearest cliffside and answer to the Doomsman before I hear that dullard be named High King of a people he abandoned. Tis the height of dishonor!" hissed the advisor with a dangerous gleam in his eyes. 

Disappearing into isolation was one thing, but taking those supplies without leave from his own father was just unbelievable.

Many elves went hungry and nearly starved because of that stunt. 

Uncle was barely able to quell the call for blood. 

Even Finrod was shocked. 

Our poor pacifist of a cousin was subjected to a thorough supply check because of that madness. 

...

I have a feeling the Doomsman would rather press you for answers than anything else...(He's so confused🤣)

"You know I never liked him; not really. He's more than once proven himself unreliable and easily swayed by his own hubris." 

Well that makes me curious.

"How so?" 

Erestor looked at him as though he'd grown a second head. 

"Really my lord? You ask after what he's done to his own sister-son. Never mind what that fool's daughter dared to call him! Hah! That little one pleads to the One for mercy on our behalf when his own cousin by blood spoke such vile blasphemous words! Would that I could strike them down with lightening!" seethed the dark haired elf before him through grit teeth. 

Should such an ability ever be given to one such as thee; I think we should all fear for our lives (pfft🤭).

I don't need to be reminded of that, thank you.

Uncle is downright disgusted and heartbroken his own granddaughter spoke such words.

Especially given Glorfindel did nothing to stop her. 

Aunt Findis will have his toes for that. 

Aye Lómion did and till now it's just unfathomable. 

Were there not reports of that pillar of light appearing; I'd have been hard pressed to actually believe him.

The implications are beyond staggering...

"Not that! I am well aware of his crimes Erestor; I need not be reminded. What I meant is when you said he's been proven unrealible before. Has he done something I don't know about?" he said with clear frustration as he chugged another glass before rubbing his forehead. 

Erestor blinked and looked like he was contemplating something before speaking again. 

"Nothing as pronounced, but there were signs. One particular incident comes to mind" said the dark haired ner as he heaved a tired sigh. 

Maglor looked intrigued. 

"Oh?"

"Hmm yes. Twas back when we still resided in Valinor and Morgoth had not been released. You recall I was tasked with being the Princess's tutor for a time?"

"Yes, but wasn't that only for a short while? Atar said you reseigned due to the growing tensions between our houses" he said and was surprised when Erestor released an humorless snort. 

"Oh would that were the truth my lord. Nay, that was what your father told everyone to save my reputation. At the time people believed his word more than Turukáno's so as a result my honor was spared. However, what really happened was that the dear prince of the time relieved me of the position not three months after I was assigned" said Erestor with a fake smile on his face. A clear faux paus to the internal anger of being dismissed from a position he had well proven his skill. 

Maglor's eyes were huge. 

"He what?! What?? Why?!" he said and felt a chill when he saw the fake smile widen to a dangerous toothy grin.

It always unnerves me when he does that. 

He'd make a good politician.

Erestor took a slow sip of his wine before answering. His eyes almost seemed to be lost in a vivid memory. 

"He didn't want me teaching Princess Itarillë Tengwar" said Erestor as though he were talking about the weather. A fake smile still on his face. One that said one thing "You heard me."

Maglor blinked. 

Then he blinked again.

His jaw was getting wider with every second that passed. 

Were it modern times, one could have compared the reaction to a spring popping out of place from a mattress. 

He was so stunned the only thing he could do to formulate a response was an awkward sounding. 

".....Excuse me?"

Erestor chucked. A fake chuckle. A sound one would make when laughing about something so stupid you couldn't even believe it happened. 

"Yes my lord. Our dear former prince Turgon dismissed me because he learned I was teaching the Princess Tengwar as part of my curriculum. A skill I might add was taught to the majority of elves once your father perfected the scripture" said the advisor as he grabbed the wine bottle and slowly poured himself another glass. The fake smile now not even remotely reaching his dark eyes as he watched Maglor try to process the nonsense he just revealed. 

If this is a joke it's not a funny one. 

Did that #$%! truly! 

Wait.

Wait. 

Let's calm down. 

He's an idiot, but perhaps there's a reasonable explanation (You poor man🫣).

Maglor cleared his throat a bit and schooled his expression before calmly, more like attempting, asking. 

"Did he give a reason as to why he didn't want you teaching Idril Tengwar? Did he somehow fear political repercussions?" he said and felt his right eye twitch when he heard Erestor give him a small "hmmm." 

Now I know this snake is enjoying this. 

"Well I don't know about political strife, for he certainly never gave such reasoning. No, he said he didn't want his daughter learning a craft created by one who the valar deemed marred" said Erestor as he made his displeasure known. 

Maglor's eyes narrowed to a dangerous degree. 

All hope of reasonable explanations now gone. 

Oh no, now he was pissed.

"Excuse me" 

"Tis true my lord. He didn't see the need for her to learn the skill"

That stupid knave!

Tengwar is the foundation for both Quenya and Sindarin! 

Learning either language without knowing Tengwar is like trying to hatch eggs without building the nest!

"Did you tell Elenwë about this? Surely she couldn't have been alright with such a decision!" screeched Maglor as he recalled the elleth that had been the only reasonable voice within Turgon's empty head.

"I informed your Uncle and Princess Elenwë of his actions. Both were not pleased; the princess tried to reason with him, but he still refused. Eventually I was dismissed, but your uncle said he would enlist my services once the princess was older and Turukáno had less sway over her decisions. However, that hour never came because by the time the princess was into her third century. She wanted nothing to do with anything your father made because she believed the false rumors. Your uncle, aunt, and even her mother tried to make her see reason. But no matter what they said, she still would not yield" said Erestor as a pitiless gaze was now fixed on the wine glass in his hand. 

It's one thing when she's a child but to do so when she's older. 

Such a thing is...

Turgon you idiot!

What kind of precedent did you set!

Now it's starting to make sense why she's so ignorant. 

"Do you think she ever learned it?" he said as though he were grasping for straws in a burned haystack.

"Probably not, given what Prince Lómion has told us of how Turgon designed Gondolin. It seems the defector has chosen to create a near copy of Tirion. Both in the physical and cultural respect" said Erestor with a knowing looking in his eye. One that clearly said "Why ask when you probably know."

Meaning no. 

This is...

And creating a Tirion lookalike in Beleriand? A continent at all out war???

This isn't Valinor you fool! 

"If what you say is true then how in the world would she have learned Sindarin? Or even the common tongue?! She can speak quenya, and I know she spoke some Sindarin before they all disappeared" he said as though he were trying to piece together a broken puzzle. 

Erestor gave a contemplative hum as he swirled his glass.

"Tis not impossible to learn the other languages without Tengwar. However, it would prove very difficult. Especially considering the majority of the common tongue is based on Tengwar. King Finrod saw to that when he first met the edain. Should she ever encounter any of the other races; she'll have a very hard time learning to communicate with them. Tis also important to know that even if she learns to fluently speak Sindarin or practise the common tongue; she won't be able to write it" said Erestor as he paused to give Maglor a moment to process the seriousness of what his friend just said. 

....

Oh s***

She can write quenya, but because Thingol banned it. She won't be able to write Sindarin or the common tongue.

She wouldn't be able to read most correspondences depending on what language is used. 

Turgon what have you done.

The next few minutes passed in silence as Maglor tried to steady his tumultuous breathing. Twas like he was having an internal battle on whether to rage or scream. He was honestly trying to decide how much of Idril's behavior was and wasn't her own fault because her father partially damned her with his incessant ignorance. Maglor couldn't even understand how Turgon could be such a vast contrast from all his siblings. With this new revelation; Turgon had just proven himself an ill caretaker, king, and even uncle in every sense. 

What else is this fool going to do that'll infuriate me even further?

(....)

(You shouldn't have said that👀)

"You know those two truly have nothing in common" said the advisor that instigated all this. 

However, what he said was enough to snap Maglor out of his mental wandering.

"Care to Elaborate?"

"Gladly. To put it simply the young prince is a very inquisitive child. He absorbs information like a sponge, and he's very open-minded. Now while I'm not fond in any sense of how he depreciates himself at times" (Harry🤦)

A sentiment we can all agree on. 

"Nor how he needlessly overworks himself into a daze should someone not be there to stop him" (Classic Harry🙄)

I second that as well. 

"He uses his talents to help those for the simple sake of helping. It's clear as day he's not looking to feed his pride, attain honors, or even boost his own power. He simply wants to protect others; even if he doesn't know them. Sorry to say my Lord, but while Princess Idril could be wise or otherwise kind at times; it was conditional at best" 

Maglor quirked a brow. 

"Conditional?"

"If she found a flaw, she'd lock onto it like a raven does a jewel"

And isn't that concerning. 

He's right. 

Those two had nothing in common, but whatever her circumstances she should have never treated him like that. 

He's her blood; she should have known better. 

"Now my lord, as much as I'd love to continue this conversation"

Pfft, sure. 

"I'm afraid I must give you an important report. Let's not forget you also inquired as to why I was rather perturbed earlier" said Erestor with a pristine smile on his face. 

"Rather perturbed" he says. 

Had anyone else thrown a hammer at me; I'd have thrown them in the dungeon. 

The things I put up with for you.

"Well then let's hear it" he said as moved to sit with the bearing of an elf of his rank. 

Erestor gave him an approving smirk. 

"Yes, my lord. As per your orders I've managed to narrow down the general location of Gondolin and where Prince Eöl's people may have gone after their lords death" said Erestor with all the seriousness of a seasoned soldier.

"And what have you found? Do you know the location of either?" he said and braced himself for the upcoming answer. 

"Sadly for the defectors all I could find is that the city is located along the southern edges of Dorthonion. Specifically they are hidden somewhere along the Western edges of the Ered Gorgoroth"

That's quite accurate actually.

"How came you by this information?"

"I commissioned Prince Celegorm's hunters to secretly follow the Eagles of Manwë. It took several years, given their sharp sight, but they were able to see some of them frequently flying in those general directions. Tis my belief that the former prince uses them as a means of gathering information on the outside world"

So that wretch did have a means of contacting us. 

That insepid...

"However, they could not follow any further lest they risk getting caught. Given how they treated his sister-son, I could not risk their safety"

Abide in this city, or die in this city. 

Disgusting words. 

I have sinned, but to do such a thing yet claim himself not a kinslayer. 

What a hypocrite (He is😑).

"There's more my lord. I believe that Lord Ulmo is also protecting their location with some kind of enchantment" 

That got Maglor's attention. 

"Truly?" he said as though he couldn't believe it given the Valar's usually indifferent behavior. 

"Yes, my lord. I know you may not agree, but I must confess that Lord Ulmo seems the kinder of the other Valar" (He really is😉)

That's true....I suppose. 

"He could have killed us all when we crossed the sea, especially after the kinslaying; but he didn't. I also know from my discussions among the maiar back in Valinor that Lord Ulmo in fact did not consent to Morgoth's release" 

Hmmm I did hear that not all the Valar agreed to release that monstrosity. 

However, before Maglor could ponder any further on the matter. He suddenly became nervous when Erestor looked pensive about something. 

"My lord in regards to this matter, there is something" 

Maglor steeled himself. 

"What is it?"

"As you know, the prince did recently approach Lord Cirdan"

Tell me Lómion didn't do something to Cirdan.

Please tell me he didn't 😱

"Calm down my lord. Lord Cirdan is fine" said Erestor as he rolled his eyes at the theatrics. 

"Sigh. While the hunters were returning from the latest scouting mission, one of them was approached by one of Cirdan's associates. Apparently, he wished to send us a correspondence"

Why do I have a bad feeling about this?

"What did it say?"

"Well....it would seem Lord Cirdan wished to let us know that Lord Ulmo is in fact aware of Prince Lómion" said Erestor as he carefully eyed his lord. 

A precaution done with good judgment. 

Given Maglor went pale as a ghost. The wine glass now shattering to pieces on the floor as the poor elf started seeing stars. 

He practically screamed.

"WHAT!?"

No no no no no

Please no, stay away from that boy!

"Peace my lord! Peace! The prince is safe"

"Safe?! Safe! One of them knows of him and you call that safe! I will burn this world to the ground if any of them dare touch him!!" 

Like the void I'll let them near him!

He doesn't deserve wrong done upon him by those ignorant-

"If you calmed down long enough to let me finish then I can explain why you don't have to worry!" near shouted the elf that was patting his back in an attempt to calm him down. 

Maglor felt like a scolded child. 

"As I was saying. Yes, Lord Cirdan notified me that Lord Ulmo is aware of the young prince. However, it would seem he cannot approach the Prince unless he does first" 

....

What??

He apparently spoke his thoughts aloud as Erestor sighed. 

"Yes, my lord. It would seem the Lord of Waters is actually barred from approaching the young prince. I assume the same applies for the other Valar" said Erestor as he returned to his seat once he confirmed his lord wasn't going to faint-again-before he finished his report. 

"How?!" 

"Well considering who prince Lómion beseeched on our behalf. I imagine that may chance has something to do with it" said Erestor with a casual calm before his form stilled from realizing the magnitude of what he just said. 

They both suddenly looked like they'd swallowed several sour plums. 

No.

No.

Nope, no, and absolutely not. 

Hahahaha ⊙_◎

I'm not dealing with this. 

I refuse to even entertain this right now!

"How about you give me the rest of your report" he said in a desperate attempt to change the subject. 

"..Agreed" 

Maglor grabbed another wine glass considering his first was now broken. 

I fear this becoming a habit.

"As you commanded my lord, it so happens I was recently able to find a former servant of Eöl's house. Funny enough, he was actually one of the thralls the prince rescued from Angbad" 

Maglor's eyes went up.

"Truly? Wait, did he recognize Maeglin?" he said with uncertainty at what this could imply.

"Not at first, twas only after he heard the prince's voice again that whatever enchantment he used started to weaken. Bôr is his name, and he was among the thralls sent to Estolad. It took a bit of time to find him. Honestly, twas a coincidence that he happened to hear Prince Maeglin's voice while delivering a message for the twins" said Erestor as he took a sip of his fifth glass. 

That sounds like an Avari name. 

Though the fact his name means "faithful" speaks volumes to his character. 

"So what's his story?"

"Bôr seems to be an honorable ner my lord. He used to be the stable hand in Nan-Elmoth before Prince Eöl dismissed all the staff when Prince Maeglin turned 60" 

Wait what?

"He dismissed them?"

"Yes, twas quite odd. Bôr said his lord was never one to do things with no explanation.  However, before leaving they were all given provisions and a good severance pay. From what Bôr told me, Maeglin's father only had about 10 servants working in his house before they all left" 

10?? That's it?! 

"Yes, my lord tis very surprising. Even when your father was banished to Formenos did we still have hundreds of elves serving the grounds. The reasoning behind this seems to be that Bôr's group were the only one's among all the Doriathrim that truly respected their prince, and chose to stay with him. Though to be fair, only three of them were born Sindar while the other seven were Avari that happened to reside in Doriath before the Girdle went up" said Erestor with the bearing of an information master. The distaste at how Eöl was treated made clear through each word he spoke. 

Thingol how could you let such disrespect run rampant in your halls (He didn't know😮‍💨).

"So how did Bôr end up captured?" 

Erestor had a strange look on his face. Twas a look mixed with both deep respect and surprise. 

"He sacrificed himself"

....

"Pardon?" 

"He sacrificed himself my lord. His group was making their way to the northern edges of Taur-im-Duinath when they were suddenly ambushed by orcs. He told the others to run while he held them off. His sacrifice allowed the others to escape while he wasn't so lucky" said Erestor with naught but respect for the elf that'd committed such selfless bravery.

Would that such selflessness existed more among our kin.

"Is he well?"

Erestor gave a true smile. 

"Yes my lord, he is well. Though he was quite shocked to learn his savior was in fact the tiny elfling he once saw running after his mother's skirts"

A small elfling, what would I have given to see him so small (🤭)

He was probably the cutest little thing in the world. 

Oh Aredhel...I'm so sorry. 

I'm so sorry we didn't protect you. 

"So what happened after he found out? Lómion never said anything to me about seeing him"

"Well I'd imagine not considering Bôr chose not to approach the Prince" said Erestor and he almost looked sad when he said it. 

"Why did he refuse?" he said with true confusion. 

"He said he didn't want to hurt the prince by bringing up the past. Bôr isn't aware of how Eöl died but he does know his lord is gone as is the prince's mother. By the time the day was up, he accepted my offer to have an armored escort to Taur-im-Duinath. I just got word that he arrived with no issues, and was able to reunite with all his friends. Twas quite the teary reunion given they all believed he was lost forever" said Erestor as a wave of warmth filled the room.

Maeglin you've made another miracle happen without even knowing you did it (That's our Harry😊).

Maglor truly felt guilty for what he had to ask next. 

"So what of Doriath? Will he keep his silence about seeing Maeglin here?" he said and realized he shouldn't have bothered asking when he heard Erestor let out an arrogant sounding snort. 

"Worry not my lord for I have no doubt he will not breathe a word. Not only did he swear his silence but upon arrival to the Avari village, my messengers were privy to the story of what occured after Bôr had been captured. It would seem the survivors chose to try and seek aid from Doriath, but were coldly turned away. The survivors furiously screamed of how the Girdle would not let them pass despite pleading before the borders for days on end. They finally had to give up when a group of marchwardens led by Saeros threathened to shoot them if they didn't leave" said Erestor in the tone of someone who was disgusted with what he was saying. 

Maglor felt his blood freeze. 

......

......

Huh?

How could...

How could they...

They aimed arrows at their own kin....

They willingly aimed arrows at their own kin when I regret it with every fiber of my being. 

Do they even realize what I could give to turn back time and stop all that from ever happening. 

Did that fool who spoke such foolish words understand the weight of them??

They accused us of being murderers when they seem so willing to kill their own. 

What....what am I supposed to tell Lómion should he ever ask me of that place? 

How can I be unbiased with him when I keep hearing these things....

"My lord..." said Erestor with true concern in his voice when a single tear fall from Maglor's eyes. 

"Why? Just why? Why would they do that?" he said with a desperation he'd have only showed his best friend. 

Erestor looked at him with genuine sympathy.

"The survivors said it was because they were no longer considered citizens of Doriath. Their law is clear. If not a marchwarden or an ambassador given the kings explicit permission to leave then all who come near the Girdle are considered a threat. For if you leave, you can never come back. Though if I'm being honest my lord I think the issue more so lay in the fact they were not of Sindarin descent" said Erestor with a finality that truly near frightened Maglor at the implications. 

That's...that is wrong. 

They call us kinslayers when they threathen elves over something so petty.

The Valar supposedly cursed the spilling of innocent blood yet Melian seems to be letting it happen???

"Do you believe Queen Melian knows about this?" he said as though trying to grab onto a string of hope. 

"Somehow I doubt it my lord. I have sent ambassadors to the Laiquendi of Ossiriand and it would seem Queen Melian does not truly know all the happenings of her realm. Before Denethor perished and the groups became estranged; it was quite clear to the wood elves that Queen Melian did not know much of the intricacies of the eldar. I believe this deficit is what's beginning to sow dissent within the realm. It would behoove you to also take note that Saeros is one of the leading nobles that holds great distaste for the other races (The pig tormented poor Turin😡). I don't know if they actually planned to make good on that threat, but this is not something to be taken lightly"

That's it! 

I'm not letting Maeglin anywhere near that place if I can help it. 

If he truly wants to go; I won't stop him but I will make sure he is well informed! (Good man🙂‍↕️)

"How funny they speak of distaste when the Laiquendi were in fact smart enough to not shoot at the edain that crossed the Ered-Luin just because they didn't know what they were. Are the Doriathrim somehow determined to make an enemy of all those outside their accursed borders? Does life mean nothing to them anymore??" he said and came to a frightening realization. One that well and truly broke his heart. 

Thingol is acting like Turgon. 

But just in reverse; rather than keep them from leaving he's threatening them from attempting to return.

If Lómion finds out, he may well and truly hate that elf for millennia to come (Harry doesn't hate..per say🤔)

Him and Thingol couldn't be more different.

Lómion would do everything to protect anyone who needed it. 

He would never slap away a hand reaching out for help. 

Even if it's to his own detriment. 

He's kind to an absolute fault. 

Oh Eru. 

Maglor felt like a war was happening in his head. He just didn't know what to do, but one thing was for sure. 

"I know I may be asking a foolish question, but I'll still ask it. Did you tell Maeglin about any of this?" 

Erestor gave him an unimpressed look. 

"I am not that petty my lord. My opinions are my own and tis not my place to impose them on that kind boy. When he asks me a question I answer it as one of my position would; with fairness and neutrality. Need I remind you I spoke not a word of complaint when the young twins put spicy herbs into my tea when I was tutor to them back in Valinor" said Erestor with a smug tune in his voice. A look that clearly said "Maeglin isn't the only mischief maker in this house."

Maglor let out a chortle. If that were an attempt by Erestor to try and lighten the mood it certainly worked. 

Ever the fastidious scholar. 

Well seeing as I'm in a better mood, let's hear what miffed him and be done for the night. 

If I can handle everything else; I'm sure I can handle whatever else may come. 

(......⊙_☉)

(Dadlor, you really shouldn't have said that ⚆ _ ⚆)

"Alright Erestor, I believe that's enough for tonight. Let's hear what got you so ruffled so I can retire. I've had enough excitement for one day" he said and didn't miss when his friend suddenly went gravely quiet.

...

?

Erestor?

A few ticks passed and still the elf said nothing. Maglor was starting to feel unsettled given the elf suddenly grabbed the wine bottle and held it to his person. And as he did he was giving Maglor one of his assessing gazes. A gaze the stern elf usually used when quickly plotting an escape route. 

"Erestor?" 

Still nothing. 

If he didn't know better he'd think Erestor was sizing him up for a fight (Not exactly...👀).

The final hammer came down when the elf suddenly stood and took a few steps back; the expensive wine bottle still held tightly in his arms. 

What the void?

Has the wine finally gotten to him? (Oh you wish..😬).

"Erestor I am losing my patience; what is the meaning of this?" he said with an impatient tone as the elf suddenly shifted his gaze away from him. 

Erestor looked pensive; his body suddenly went tense before he braced himself. If Maglor didn't know any better he'd think Erestor were preparing himself for a life threatening battle (...Something like that (¬‿¬))

"Very well my lord. During our regular lessons today Prince Lómion inquired as to when young elves were expected to start taking on responsibilities, such as those granted to them by their respective houses" 

?

Alright, I don't see what's odd about that (😬).

I didn't start taking on a few small tasks until well after 300. 

Even then Atar wanted us to enjoy our youth. 

"At first I thought it an innocent question, but when I told him such things weren't to be expected till well past their third century. The prince felt fit to tell me that the former Prince Turgon seemed to be planning to bequeath an entire house to him before he was 110. " said Erestor as he took a few more steps back. His tone carrying nothing but sheer disgust for the words he just spoke. If anything that tone heavily implied a beating in the pretender king's future. 

As for Maglor.....

His brain broke....

(´･ω･`)?

Then as though to further corrode the already damaged cogs.

Erestor deigned to spill more acid.

"Also my lord, it would seem the prince doesn't have a circlet"

........

..............

(⊙_⊙)？

.............

...............

Pardon?

................

Bequeathing him a whole house........

No training.....

No circlet......

◉_◉

.......

＼（〇_ｏ）／

😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱

Before anyone even realized what happened the "gentle bard" of the Ñoldor transformed into a true son of the spirit of fire. 

Sadly, the table was the first victim. 

As Maglor's fist came down like a comet.

KABOOM!!!

Another piece of furniture now destroyed beyond repair (Told you not to ask🤦‍♀️)

With the vitriol of a madman Maglor immediately combed through all the memories Maeglin had shared during his time in that s*** pit.

With the desperation of a drowning man Maglor searched and searched for any evidence that could have hinted to the nightmare Erestor just told him. 

Luckily elven memory did not fail him, but as he meticulously analyzed the memories; he saw things that were about to make him lose all he ate for the next several months. 

HOW IN THE VOID DID I MISS THIS?! 🌋

Implied -forced- attendance at council meetings.

....

That fatuous turkey made him a member of the council at 90!(╬▔皿▔)╯

AND THEY DISCUSSED STUPID THINGS LIKE BUILDING A CONCERT HALL?!

OH YES LET'S THROW AN ORCHESTRA AT THE DARK LORD I'M SURE THAT'LL ANNIHILATE HIS ARMIES!

NIENNA'S MERCY HE TRULY WORE THOSE GAUDY GETUPS EVERY DAY?!

........

Horrid Begetting day feasts.

.......

(•_•)

What in the name of all that's good is that thing on Maeglin's head?!!

Maeglin wore that?!

Not even a raven would horde something that hideous!!

My eyes!

My eyes!!!

Now when faced with a situation like this, what's the best course of action?

Simple

Tell your brothers ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

So he did.

With his sibling bond, Maglor slammed the recent revelation into all his brother's heads. 

Only a few ticks passed before their reactions were made clear as day.

And oh they were not happy😬. 

'It's official the peacock's gone mad! No circlet?! Is our house meant to look like destitutes?? ATAR WILL COME BACK FROM THE GRAVE FOR THIS! A member of the council at 90?! I was 350!'

'Aredhel's gonna kill him, I'm gonna skin him, and Huan can have what's left! WAS THAT IDIOT TRYING TO SLOWLY KILL THE BOY?? Why did Glorfindel just watch this mess?! To Utumno with waiting! Someone find those damn eagles!'

'Concert halls, tea parties, and....procession formations? During war! I think my mind just got infected. Maeglin was exposed to this idiocy??'

'This is ridiculous, just when you think it can't get any worse-'

'He goes and does something else. We had circlets by the time we were 50'

Though out of all the brothers.

Curufin, a renowned smith, took it the worst. 

Especially given the mockery he just saw on Maeglin's head. 

'That $#@* BEEP BEEP BEEP &%^()*&* BEEP !!!!!!!!...WHAT IN TULKAS' B**** BEEEEEEEEEPPPPPP....WERE THEY #$&*#### ORC!!!!! BEEEEEEEEEEEEPPPPPPP!.............

(We're sorry the following content cannot be censored enough so the author shall leave it at this for now. Trust me folks you don't wanna hear the rest (。﹏。)).

It didn't stop and probably wasn't going to any time soon. 

But he was fine with that.

I can already tell Nelyo is informing Fingon about this. 

Good!

The more hands to track those idiots down the better. 

Run Run little Gondolindrum because Effírië Linde is coming to play you a tune🎵🎶 

Come my sweet wayward cousin.

Let me sing you a song of nightmares (⓿_⓿) 

(In the hidden valley of Tumladen, within the Tower of the King, Turgon the King of Gondolin felt an unearthly chill consume his very being. One so profound he near screamed and fell out of his bed)

As the chaos within the House of Finwë ensued Maglor turned to his advisor with a grin so sinister it'd have frightened the Cheshire cat. 

"My dear Erestor" 

The advisor looked more then a bit unsettled. 

"I care not what you have to do or who you have to threaten. As long as nobody dies, do whatever it takes to find one of those arrogant feather dusters!"

"Yes my lord"

But before Erestor could turn to leave-

"Oh and Erestor, I don't suppose you'd care to partake in another round of 'testing' my sweet son's armor would you?" 

Whatever Erestor was expecting to hear; it certainly wasn't that. 

For when the words left Maglor's lips, the stern elf's lips twitched in almost sadistic delight. 

"If my lord bids it of me, then how can I refuse" 

This is why you truly get me my friend. 

Ah yes, what fun I shall have this night. 

Hmm?

Oh

A brief tug on one of Maglor's bonds just told him that his elder brother was on the other end of a very interesting conversation right now. 

A conversation that entailed the provocation of a usually calm beast that was about to go on another rampage. 

(Hello everyone. Yup, it's me😁. Now, before we continue with our story. Let's backtrack for a moment and just take a sec to recall just how vicious our Dear High King's temper can get😇)

(Now, that we're done with that........yeah)

(Somebody's aaaaaaangryyyy 🤭)

💣💣💣💣💣💣💣💣💣💣💣💣

🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋!

I see uncle just found out.

Well, he's certainly mad now.

(As the Bard of the Ñoldor made ready to vent his rage again, he could not have foreseen that the subject of his tantrum was in fact privy to the noise he had caused)

(Of course said topic couldn't really be bothered to care or let it hinder his rest. Given he'd once had far worse noises to deal with)

(Though what Harry/Lómion couldn't have predicted; was that his memory wards ended up being the pinnacle factor in keeping his armor secret 😅)

When someone lives a certain lifestyle it is expected that one would procure a degree of expectation. 

If you've spent your life as a soldier or on the battlefield; would it not make sense to predict your demise may be met somewhere within that general field?

Is it so farfetched to think that when you lead a territory that relies on cavalry. The possibility of a riding accident is within reason?

Of course life is ever full of surprises. Expectations are one thing but none can question the danger that lies in the lands of Endor.

However, what Maglor Fëanorian could have never predicted. Nor quite frankly ever hoped to remotely entertain; was that his heart son and nephew would be the ones to cause the greatest damage his fortress ever received! 

Why he ever thought introducing Lómion to Tyelpe would somehow calm him down was a mystery. 

Why he thought for even one miniscule beat of a bee's wing that Maeglin would cause less heart attacks was beyond him. 

Tyelpe was indeed a mischievous elf.

He had his father's inquisitive nature mixed in with his mother's kindness. 

However, Celebrimbor only ever listened to his father -mostly- and ever sought to make him proud. Curufin's son had been relentless in wanting to meet his newest cousin following the quiver incident. Tyelpe was ever curious as to how Maeglin was able to pull off even half his crazy stunts. 

Then as if it wasn't bad enough Curufin combusted -literally- following the revelation of the flying lessons. 

Oh and how fun it is to just tell people "Oh yes my nephew got in trouble because his cousin was teaching him how to fly on a magic broomstick." 

I'm not even surprised Tyelkormo was in on it!

Then again he's the only one of us that cares for using that flying death trap!

My feet shall remain on the ground thank you!

No! His son just had to go and do something more crazy. And of course, why not drag Celebrimbor along for the ride. In the middle of the night no less!

I knew those two miscreants were up to no good when I heard their little feet skittering about, but Eru what were you thinking giving this boy the ability to do this?! 

Death by fireplace!??? Fireplace?!?!? TT

What kind of ridiculous type of demise is that?! 

Of all the eccentric ways to die, that is not what I even remotely pictured.

This is not how I foresaw meeting the Doomsman!! (Boy, he don't wanna see you either🤨)

It was madness; sheer unadulterated chaos. 

Maglor's whole office was not damaged but obliterated! Gone! Blown to the heavens in a blaze of green flames. 

By the time he'd been sent flying into his eldest brother's shocked arms. Maglor's office had been totally and unequivocally destroyed. The damage was so pronounced that there was nothing but a gaping hole where once his office lay. Not a wall missing but the whole structure. It looked like that accursed dragon took a bite out of the fortress and spit it back out. The whole Gap was in an utter panic. After Maglor fainted following his unsought transport; Maedhros raced to the Gap with an entire platoon. It took that plus a few soldiers sent from Thargelion to stop the entire Gap from arming their cavalry for a needless counterattack. 

The look Tarion gave me when he saw the state I was in will forever haunt me. 

Never mind he thought I was dead! 

No, I am not in need of a funeral!

Everyone was so convinced that explosion was a surprise attack from the enemy. 

Then imagine everyone's surprise when they found out that colossal explosion was a result of Lómion's 'experiment' gone awry.

An experiment that was originally supposed to be used to send instant messages to allies within our circle. Lómion also said it could transport people should an emergency evacuation ever be needed.

A genius idea but good luck getting anyone to step into a fireplace following that disaster. 

Oh and what a disaster it was considering it was now the official talk of both Hithlum and the Fëanorian territories. 

What fun it is to hear Uncle's tower had been blown to near kingdom come because two unsought guests decided to crash right in. 

However, I can't help but find the slightest sliver of satisfaction in knowing I'm not the only one dealing with all this!

It took over a week to figure out where everyone had been "sent" following the explosion. Maeglin and Erestor's location taking the longest given they'd been blown to Hithlum! 

Erestor with no eyebrows......hahahahahaha.

Welcome to the madness my friend.....(￣y▽,￣)╭ 

Hahahahahaha

Though I care not for how that shameless heathen "threatened" to shave me bald should I ever speak of his lack of facial hair to anyone.

"Have you heard of hair eating insects my lord? I hear they're quite vicious in the winter time and especially favor striking at night when you least expect it" he said.

A retainer just casually saying he'll shave his lord bald. 

What a world 🙄

Although-

......I do pity Curvo. 

My word he hasn't been quite right since. 

Then again I don't think most parents would handle their children abruptly announcing their presence through a torrent of green flames very well (Uh not really😅).

To sum it all up, the fireplace incident had caused an absolute plethora of chaos. Everyone, including himself, were stuck in the healing halls for over a week. Maglor had been forced to chug down one of the burn potions on account of Milya's incessant nagging. 

While I'm grateful for the sleeping draughts; I could have lived without her endless sassy comments "The prince has outdone himself this time," "Can't he teach us some healing techniques if he has time to destroy fortresses," or my favorite was "Your fortitude is to be admired my lord for I doubt anyone could have handled this as well as you."

Hmph, handled it well she says🙄.

Oh yes, crying in my brother's arms and twitching certainly added to my grace didn't it. 

It's been over a month since that madness and now I am doomed to forever be on stomach medicine. Not even my harp has managed to remotely quell my nerves! 

To think I'd become Máriel's most frequent visitor!

Is being a parent supposed to be this dangerous to your health? Am I doing something wrong? Am I bad father? (No, you're not😅). 

"You know one must admit my nephew is a genius" 

Maglor's inner turmoil was put on pause when he opened his eyes to gaze at the ever optimistic countenance of his cousin. Said cousin that was now relaxing in Lómion's tent following the latest incident. Said that tent that was pitched inside his office. 

The same office that had been obliterated and then magically repaired in minutes! It didn't take a lot of wisdom to realize he fainted from that sight. Again!

Ever the optimist. 

He's about the only one that laughed about the whole thing. 

Especially when he saw Erestor dragging my unconscious self back to the healing halls. 

Ah yes, his cousin Fingon. Said cousin that tagged along with his Uncle following the recent adventure instigated by the mischievous bird and his partner in crime. Said troublemakers that were both grounded until the new age following their return. 

Tyelpe will be stuck in Aglon for awhile. 

Curvo is still out of it. 

I shudder just recalling those hysterial laughs I could hear through ósanwë. 

My poor baby brother nearly lost his mind. 

He never had much patience before, but now it's nigh nonexistent. 

Huan won't even go near fireplaces now.

So much for the great hunter's fearsome hound. 

Tyelko never ceases to find the whole thing hilarious.

Now why was Maglor in his heart son's tent along with his cousin? 

The answer was simple. 

Twas Maeglin's "apology" gift following the latest stunt. All his brothers, aside from the twins and Curufin, were all lounging in Lómion's living room following a nice soak in his luxurious bath. Even their Uncle had just finished a soak, with Fingon now resting his head on his father's shoulder. Maedhros, of course, was seated at the right of his heart brother. 

Nelyo picked pine. 

I chose rose.

While everyone else, including uncle, chose mint bath salts. 

What a boon after to have such a luxury in wartime. 

"I don't deny my grandson's intelligence, but I must say I could do without him risking his safety. Despite the gag orders my people are still talking about this latest escapade. The 'Patron of Finwë' is becoming more known by the day. Even Lord Hador has begun inquiring about the whispers running about my lands" said Fingolfin with a tired sigh as he combed a hand through his wet hair. 

I have no doubt.

At least you scolded him for this, but then how could I have the heart to be angry after even more outrageous information has come to light. 

Refusing riding lessons! Of all the ignorant short-sighted nonsense. 

Now there's another lesson that slippery eel gets to teach him. 

Then again Erestor wasn't happy to hear Lómion learned quenya from scratch. 

Nienna's mercy 🤦

At this point nothing surprises me anymore, even the fact that he can supposedly make beds appear from nothing?! (Sigh...Dadlor).

"Well I could have lived without bruised ribs, yet here we all are" said none other then Celegorm with a tone that really said "We should all be used to this by now, so deal with it."

"I have to wonder where he learned all this. Did Eöl teach him or is he somehow getting this inventive streak from the paternal side of the family?" said Caranthir as he made himself comfortable on the arm chair by the fireplace. 

If that fool was responsible for this child's combustive inclinations then there will be words indeed (He's innocent😅).

"Eöl had about as much creativity as a slug. I've only seen him a handful of times and even less so spoken to him. Curvo had more experience with him, but Maeglin definitely takes after Aredhel as far as personality goes" said Celegorm as he eyed his cousin from where he lay sprawled on the couch by Caranthir. His hair still partially wet from the soothing bath. 

Thank goodness I can tell Maeglin is already asleep because I doubt he'd appreciate us having this conversation. 

Well, at least Tyelko had the mental fortitude to have Huan watch him. 

Lómion seems to like using him as a source of comfort. 

Most animals really, given he actually still spends time with those vicious crossbreeds in the stable.

Aside from his sword Anguirel, he hasn't spoken much about his father to me.  

.....

In a way I wish he would though.

It's not good to keep it all locked up (Harry does that..🤦‍♀️)

It's not like I don't have my fair share of familial strife (You're telling us? (¬_¬ ))

"So do you think he takes more after his father or mother?" said Fingon as he crossed his legs and bore a tone of true curiosity. 

Celegorm looked contemplative for a moment. 

"I'd say he's quite the mix. He has the same eyes as Eöl, but Aredhel's heart. Again I don't know enough about his father, but I will certainly say he's nothing like Thingol or the maiar I've encountered on Lord Oromë's hunt. Not even remotely" said Celegorm with a tone of finality.

He's nothing like his imbecile of an uncle that's playing "fake" king either.

The maiar? Lómion has his emotions all over his face half the time. 

Most didn't speak to the maiar on account of how blank faced they were.  

True, the same can be said of elves but they could be quite disconcerting at times; especially Lord Eönwë. 

Well....all except that one maia I met during a concert. 

What was his name again? 

Ah yes! Olórin (Gandalf😊!)

He actually knew how to produce a real smile, and was quite pleasant with the children. 

"Well I find it concerning that he keeps doing such dangerous activities for the sake of helping others. Even this latest stunt was for the sake of creating an emergency evacuation measure. I couldn't come up with an excuse for my chancellors and simply issued gag orders on the whole affair. Now, as to how well that actually worked. Well, I'm sure you all can imagine; given Finno was seen carrying a child to the healing halls" said Fingolfin as he eyed his silver haired nephew with a soft look and a hint of sarcasm in his tone.  

Practically everything he does is to help others, even at the cost of his own well-being. 

There has got to be a limit to this (Not with a Gryffindor😏).

It's like he's trying to prevent the world from imploding. 

And what is this about him nearly getting smashed by a tree???

Trees don't attack elves, that is just not done (Pfft, he wasn't an elf(¬‿¬))

Everyone here almost had an ulcer when they thought myself or Maeglin might have been injured in that explosion. 

Nobody lets him out of their sight now. 

"How many from your side actually saw him Uncle?" said his red haired brother with a tone of political inquisitiveness. His body language clearly telling of the need to develop counter measures should this blow up. 

"Not many. Only Húriel, Elvion, and Estelon have actually spoken to him. Húriel knows not his parentage, but I assume she suspects. Bear in mind she has lived in Doriath, and still maintains some measure of correspondence with her cousin" said Fingolfin with a measured tone that gave a hint of foreshadowing.

"Oh? Dare I ask what her dear marchwarden of a cousin had to say" said Maedhros as he eyed his uncle with caution. 

"Not much given their messages are kept to a minimum lest they be compromised. However, it would seem Tyelkormo's idea indeed bears truth. They are still searching for Eöl and do not even know he had a child. I find this whole affair to be quite concerning, especially given the realm seems to be becoming more divided by the day. Many have seemingly voiced inquiries on the growing turbulence of the war, and are questioning the treatment of outsiders" said Fingolfin as he gave Celegorm a look of soft approval and bore a posture of concern for his grandson's safety. 

There's so much that could go wrong should Maeglin ever approach Doriath, especially now that we've confirmed something is indeed wrong with their king's innate bonds.

The child looks so much like Uncle that should Thingol ever look at him; he may dismiss his legitimacy altogether. 

Of course if Lómion changes into one of his animal skins that'll promptly shut the fool up. 

But it should not ever have to come to that. 

Lómion should not have to need his power to prove anything. 

No child should ever endure his own existence being rejected like that (Sigh...😮‍💨).

I know that boy well enough to know that should such a scenario ever take place; he'd just silently endure the emotional pain such an altercation caused him (Harry😓).

It's bad enough we know without a doubt that excessive use of his power causes him to fall asleep for extended periods.

"Can we also bear in mind that our little elfling seems to have asked all of us for something quite interesting" said Celegorm as he rose from the couch with an unreadable expression. Well unreadable to most, but Maglor knew his little brother. In that hour Maglor knew, that Celegorm was more than a bit shaken. 

Shaken from a mentioned request that had caused all of his company to go silent.

Letters.

Lómion asked for letters....for Amme.

He'd been in Beleriand for over four centuries of the sun.

He'd been exiled from Valinor.

He'd committed a kinslaying.

He'd taken on the role of war general when he never truly wanted it. 

In all these years he'd resigned himself to the bleak truth that he'd never see his mother again. 

Unless it be from the tapestries in Mandos, or in self made illusions his mind would conjure after his soul was cast into the void (Was never gonna happen😡).

Of course the latter was no longer possible given Lómion's interventions. 

So why....

Why did that child ask for something....something that should be well and truly impossible?

Why did I say yes?

Why did I give him one?

It won't ever make it to Amme, so why? (It will🙂‍↕️).

Why, for just one moment, why do I feel a sudden hope? 

Maglor would never admit the profound shock he felt when Lómion asked for that letter. He would never tell the child of the countless nights he spent shedding tears onto the parchment that carried words meant only for his mother's eyes. Maglor would never admit that as the ink touched the parchment, he felt his heart aching in ways it had not since before the sun first rose. Maglor was not fool enough to think his mother still loved him. He was not naïve enough to believe that his mother would still look at him as the little bard she carried to bed. But if there was even a small sliver of a chance. If there was to be another miracle, let his mother at least know how sorry he was for everything.

If there is one truth in this world. 

It's that I am truly sorry.

I'm sorry for everything. 

I'm sorry to all those I hurt. 

I would take it back. 

If I could I would. 

What Maglor Fëanorion didn't know nor could have perceived was what his regrets had begun.

Deep in the depths of Maglor's fëa, a crack in his being had finally begun to heal. 

For Harry/Lómion's future words now held true. 

Evil cannot regret but one who knows love can; and in turn heal the soul that has been hurt. 

"I didn't give him an answer" said Caranthir as he tiredly slouched from where he sat. Though his younger brother bore a look that screamed his turmoil from the request.

Carnistir feels no less regretful than the rest of us. 

Even if he's not good with showing his emotions at times.

"I told him I'd think about it" said Maedhros with a sad look as he eyed his heart brother who now looked at him in shock.

"Russo, you truly said that?"

"Yes, Finno I did. Don't ask me what possessed me to acquiesce for even I know not the answer" said Maedhros with a tone of mixed hopelessness and emotional vulnerability. 

Fingon actually pursed his lips in what looked like shame. 

"He...he asked me for one. To...to send to Amme, but I refused. Eru, why did I do that?! I should have just done it. He even said he was making her a present!" said Fingon with true sadness as Fingolfin pulled his son to him. No doubt in an attempt to try and sooth his child's longing for his mother. 

A present. 

A gift for Aunt Anairë. 

So that's why I heard music coming from his room. 

Oh Lómion...

"He asked me for one too yonya, and yet I had not the heart to even answer. Never doubt my love for your mother, but I find myself a coward at the idea of facing the angry words I have no doubt she holds for me" said Fingolfin with a level of sadness Maglor had rarely ever seen. 

Fingon didn't seem inclined to agree with his father. 

"Amme would never hate you Atar! Never! If anything I'm the one that's failed her. I couldn't keep Turko from deserting, I couldn't protect my sister, I couldn't....I couldn't protect Arakáno. I couldn't save anyone. Even now I'm failing to protect my nephew!" wailed Fingon as angry tears started falling down his face. His father only held him tighter. 

What happened to Argon was our fault, not yours.

Had we not burned the ships, you'd have never crossed that accursed ice. 

Maglor finally had enough.

"I'm sorry cousin" 

Fingon looked taken aback. 

"Makalaurë? what?" 

"I'm sorry you were forced to cross that ice. I'm sorry I didn't have the same strength as Nelyo and refused to burn the boats. I should have taken one; I should have fought with Atar. I should have done something! I'm sorry for everything" said Maglor as his hands shook from a level of emotion words couldn't even describe. 

"Cousin.." whatever Fingon was going to say got caught in his throat as Maglor did something he didn't think he'd ever do again. 

He hugged his cousin. 

With bated breadth Maglor swiftly hugged his elder cousin. 

Then as swiftly as he'd done it, he immediately let the older elf go. 

Said elf that now looked utterly stunned. 

Him and all of Maglor's brothers. 

Except Maedhros; for the eldest of Fëanor's sons was now looking at Maglor with so much warmth the Bard didn't dare bask in it. 

Though it would last as quickly as it came, because Fingon now looked at Maglor as though he'd become a star. 

"I know this may be late, but if we're all going to move forward then I think it's time to clear the air" said Maglor with a tone that wished to grab on to a frail hope. 

Though not as frail as he'd think, for by the time the eve was up and all had retired for the night. 

The majority of Fëanor's sons finally shared ósanwë with Fingolfin and his son. 

A long standing wall, finally knocked down. 

Aside from the otherwise better relations between Maglor's house and his uncle's. Another pressing issue soon made itself known. 

One that left Maglor in dire straits over what the implications could mean for the child he'd come to love as his own. 

Something is wrong with Lómion.

Something indeed.

Maglor knew the boy had a plethora of secrets, but he'd never dare probe the child for answers unless it be absolutely necessary. He was standing outside his keep watching the magic lights rise into the sky. He'd done this every time Maeglin would leave to strengthen the barrier. Many of the residents watching from the balconies or chancing glances at the power their youngest prince was using to ensure their safety. 

Though in truth, many wished he didn't because they were now painfully aware of what it may be costing him. 

It started when Maglor was first asked for the letter. He knew something was going to happen, but he couldn't conceive what. However, after the latest meeting with the family something had begun to go wrong. 

The boy had grown solemn, quiet, desperate, and near frantic in trying to get as many of the requested letters as he could. Maedhros and Tyelpe had capitulated along with the twins, but the others had carefully refused.

Twas even more concerning that Lómion admitted to writing a letter for Aunt Eärwen.

He said he wanted to try and cheer her up. 

Though how he'll do that I don't know (We do🤭).

I imagine he said something about Aegnor. 

Finrod is still looking for him. 

Would that were the only thing worry him, but it was more then that. Maglor could feel in the bond with his heart son that Lómion was growing more restless by the day. There was something eating at the child. Twas like the drums of war were beginning to sound with an ever slow cadence. The beating only getting louder with each season that passed.

It was getting worse, and Maeglin was beginning to show signs of the disturbance that was no doubt plaguing him. 

It's like Maeglin had sensed a profound change in the air.

That something had gone horribly wrong. 

Maglor knew Maeglin had maia blood running through his veins and could perhaps sense the world's song. The few snippets Maglor could pick up were already telling of something that could cause profound pain. 

He was worried. 

The boy had become so quiet many grew concerned. 

Even Erestor became anxious when he saw the boy beginning to neglect his forge work. 

His brothers, peers, Erestor, Uncle, and cousin had all seen the change. 

"Seems he has finished for the night my lord" said none other than one of Maglor's trusted seconds, Tarion. 

Maglor had known this elf since Valinor. A proud hunter that had chosen to follow him after the siege of Angband began. He wore his hair up tonight, and while not tied with a jewel there was an intricate ribbon carefully laced through his black hair. The same colored eyes as his own stared back at him in silent knowing.

"Indeed, he said it should be done soon. May chance your hunters will have less arduous tasks to attend to before the battle is upon us" said Maglor with a steady tone befitting his position as a lord. 

Tarion said nothing as a heavy silence rang through the entranceway of the fortress. 

"My lord..." 

"Speak without restraint my friend"

Tarion sighed. 

"I worry my lord. We all are concerned. I know you are aware of what I speak" said Tarion with a heavy tone one would take when delivering dire news. 

"What would you have me do? You know I cannot stop him" 

"Still, he is so young and deserves-"

"I know, I know my friend. Just believe I will do all I can as I'm sure you will as well" said Maglor as a sad knowing smile made it self known. Tarion looked at his lord as though he were asked an obvious question before giving a reluctant sigh, and proceeding to head back inside. 

Good timing too, because the subject of their discussion had just made himself known. As silent steps aimlessly made their way back to the entrance of the Gap. 

But with one subtle difference. 

Maeglin looked tired.

Maglor felt his heart ache. 

"Pitya?" 

The boy only responded with a tired "yes uncle?"

Maglor sighed as he took the child's hand and walked with him to his room. Maeglin just let him and Maglor could feel the child reaching for his fëa. Maglor happily let him. 

They reached Maeglin's room in no time at all, and as they seated themselves on the bed Maglor felt the need to say his piece.

"Pitya, I want you to listen to me very carefully-"

Maglor was stunned when he felt the child's fëa abruptly stir. 

Maeglin's head instantly turned to look at Maglor with a look he really couldn't place, but he didn't let that stop him. 

"You are a very good person Maeglin. You have a kinder heart than any I've met, but you are not alone. I'm here, and so is your family so please don't think you need harbor the weight of the world on your shoulders. I don't want you to miss the chance to see the good in life" he said and almost clamped his mouth shut when he saw the boy start to tear up. Maglor could feel the child was recalling something, but what he didn't know. Though he'd felt something like this before. 

"There's a war going on uncle. If I don't try-" said his heart son in a tone that spoke volumes for what he was trying to protect. 

Maglor gently took the child's face and looked right into his dark eyes. 

"You are not a bad person-"

Another pronounced stirring hit his fëa like a tidal wave. 

"For not being able to save every life that chooses to acknowledge the danger that this war brings. You said it yourself once, that evil may find us when we do not seek it. If any died-" he paused with hitched breath. 

"It is because it was something worth dying for"

Lómion's fëa nigh nearly blew as the final wall between them crumbled.

The door to ósanwë had finally opened. 

Maglor spoke no more words as the child finally wept and broke down in his arms. 

The boy was on an endless loop as the thoughts echoed inside Maglor's head. 

He was almost sure Maeglin didn't even know what he was really saying. 

'It's my fault'

'I'm sorry'

'I'm so sorry'

'It's my fault'

'I shouldn't have been so stupid'

'I shouldn't have fallen for it'

'I shouldn't have gone'

'I'm sorry'

It didn't stop, it just kept going until the boy finally let exhaustion take him. 

Maglor was covering the boy with the blankets when he heard it.

He heard the child whisper a name from the depths of his fëa.

A name Maglor once heard, and one that was hidden within the depths of the lake inside Lómion's mind. 

He heard it, and Maglor knew now that Lómion loved him as much as he did this person he knew not of. 

Sirius...

But with the name came echoing screams of anguish. 

He saw darkness. 

He felt loss. 

He felt rage.

Whoever this person was to his son.

Maglor was now painfully aware. 

That their end had not come from the sands of time.

A year passed before it finally happened. 

His only relief stemming from the fact that others had sensed the change that was about to occur. 

Celegorm

Fingon

Celebrimbor

All had sensed the unease, and came to aid weather the storm that was about to strike.

Maeglin hadn't gotten much better following their talk. If anything Maglor had become even more aware of the degree of chaos running rampant within the child's very being. 

Both of their rests had become restless as Maglor begun to see snippets and blurred images of events hidden within the lake. 

Nothing graphic or remotely telling, but there were voices. 

Sounds of screaming, crying, and yelling. 

Then at times there'd be laughter, giggles, and smiles. 

Amidst the chaos he could hear the broken gargles of names he'd never heard of. 

Maeglin was clearly hiding something, and Maglor was beginning to garner a guess as to what it was. 

Twas late in the night when the dam finally broke, and he could only thank Eru for it because he was in the middle of a horrid nightmare. 

One that chilled his very bones.

He was surrounded by nothing. 

There was no light.

He could hear nothing.

Not even his own heart. 

For a moment he thought he was in the void.

But maybe that would have been better. 

Because within the abyss he had been cast he saw a creature that could in no form......

.......been part of the living.

It's eyes were lidless. 

Empty pits emitting a chilling glow. 

It had dark wings akin to the malicious crebain that parroted Morgoth's foul tongue. 

It couldn't have been alive, for it bore a blade. 

A blade of black. 

One meant to reap the soul. 

But the strangest thing was that before the amalgamation stood a man. 

A man that wore a cloak. 

It looked like he was keeping the creature back. 

By what means he could not guess for in the darkness now he could hear screaming.

A woman screaming. 

Ha.....

Maglor knew that cloak. 

HArrrrrr

The man was holding a stone. 

HARRRR-__!

The man was holding some kind of stick.

HARRRRRRRRR----

The creature kept trying to come, but the man pushed it back.

Maglor couldn't see his face.

Even as the man turned, but from the darkness Maglor could make out. 

A scar.

One in the shape of a lightening bolt.  

HARRY!

He woke with a start. 

He woke to Huan's barking, and his brother Celegorm's fervent shouts. 

"KANO!! Kano come on!!"

He wasn't very lucid when Tyelpe grabbed his arm and pulled him out of the fortress. 

He'd only become aware of Celegorm trying to catch up to Lómion after they'd left the fortress. 

Everyone was frantic because they didn't know why the boy had run off like that. 

However, he wouldn't get a chance because one moment they were in the Gap and the next they were shooting into the air. 

He'd grabbed the mirror he'd seen the boy enchant, and in the blink of an eye they were all in a forest as dark as a starless night.

Maglor knew where they were. 

He didn't even need to be told. 

This was Lómion's old home. 

This was Nan-Elmoth. 

The place where Aredhel lived with her son. 

The "Valley of star-dusk."

But for all this place was meant to be a place of solace and nostalgia; it was in turn filled with a darkness. 

Within the hallows of the trees Maglor sensed a creaking and eerie maliciousness that had tainted the original majesty of the place his son had once called home. 

Morgoth's evil has already been here.

Wait, where's Lómion?!

Maglor's question would be answered, but not in a manner he would have ever conceived. 

For ahead of his eyes lay his son.....

His heart son.......

......who wailed a scream so gut-wrenching it would plague his nightmares for ages to come. 

Maglor's heart shattered to pieces. 

"Lómion!!!"

He didn't think about it.

He tried to run to him.

They all did. 

They had to do something. 

But they couldn't.

Something pushed them back. 

And they would seen see what. 

For Maeglin's body exploded and where once was darkness......

......Was now light

In a flash of blue and silver light it came.

The stag that they'd all only heard rumors off, but nothing could have done justice to this. 

He felt warmth.

He saw light. 

The once dark forest had become lit with a warmth that had not touched it since the world's awakening. 

But the true magic had only just begun. 

For before Maglor and his kin knew what happened they heard the most beautiful and harrowing sound to ever fall upon their beings. 

They heard Lómion sing. 

And as he did Maglor could hear the world sang with him. 

For now in the dark he was the beacon. 

As the world came to life around them so to did Maglor hear the words that echoed across the forest. 

Through their bond Maglor could hear that his son was calling out to someone. 

Those that had been spread across the world. 

'Come back'

'Come back'

'Come home'

'Follow my voice'

'Come back'

'It's safe now'

'I'm here'

'It's time to go home'

'It will be okay now'

'I'm sorry I didn't come sooner'

He's calling to someone. 

The canopy spread and Maglor saw a miracle. 

In the vast ever reaching skies came fragments of light. 

Specks of light that had come to answer the call. 

"Elbereth, nephew"

But that wasn't the end.

With every note.

With every verse.

With every word Lómion sang with all his being, more came. 

And soon the sky above their heads was filled with dozens of lights coming to rest upon the stag. 

It was like the stars had come to life. 

It was then Maglor understood. 

Oh Eru, he's trying to save someone. 

But his time to ponder would be short for as soon as he'd come to the realization another sight would soon bless his eyes. 

For a hairs breadth he saw it. 

A strange stone. 

A stone of obsidian that had appeared from nowhere, and in his son's hand was some strange stick. 

Alone they looked like trinkets, but from within Maglor's being he felt an anguished stirring within his son. 

No, Lómion please.

Whatever you're going to do please stop.

Don't do it if it will only cause you pain.

But his pleas would go unheard as he felt the child set his resolve. 

For now the stag and his master were no longer the only beings of light before him. 

No, now there were others.

And with each that came, his son spoke a name. 

He spoke their names with such longing Maglor felt his heart was going to burst. 

Oh....

" ...I missed you...

I missed you so much....

...Sirius"

That's the person he loves. 

The one he lost. 

It didn't stop.

For every being of light he summoned came more of the small lights seeking to converge upon them. 

The final straw came when Lómion finally turned to look at them, and what Maglor saw shocked him to his core. 

For before him was not the Maeglin Lómion he had come to know. 

Before him was a being as bright as the two trees, if not more.

His hair was the brightest silver to ever grace a living being. 

His eyes were a glowing green more beautiful than the rarest emeralds. 

In Valinor their power was veiled, but Maglor held no doubt that Lómion now shone with a light as bright as the Valar themselves. 

Tyelpe looked like he'd been thrown into a living dream. 

Maglor could only watch as his nephew rushed to hand his cousin the bag and from it he pulled one of the Lily flowers from the blessed field. 

Then from the Lily, he summoned her....

....a doe more beautiful than all others and one that emitted a love so strong Maglor fell to his knees. 

Amme?

She...She feels like Amme..

How?

He's hugging her.

He's hugging her like she's something precious. 

The lights had been collected. 

They stood at the ready, and in a flash they all took off. 

And as they did, they lit the sky in a cacophony of radiant hues.  

They were going somewhere, but where?

Lómion?

The moment the beings took off the child turned to them, and in his glowing eyes were tears. 

Lómion, no. 

Please don't.

No more, you've done enough please.

"Use the mirror, say the spell 'portus' and it'll get you back to the gap. Go quickly before anyone from Doriath comes. I'll meet you home later"

Then he saw it. 

Maeglin became light. 

In a flurry of white light the boy shot up into the sky, and soared on the tail of the beings he'd called with such longing.

He's saying goodbye. 

Maglor stood there as they all soared above the trees. 

His brother, cousin, and nephew all gazed in wonder at the sight before them. 

For rising into the heavens. 

As twilight began to break. 

Was their nephew and with him a miracle. 

A miracle that would change everything. 

For they all knew nothing would ever be the same again. 

Not for them or all of Eä.

Because now a great wrong had finally been made right. 

As Maglor stood in the forest now purged of all the darkness that had once defiled it. 

Maglor could not help but reach for the sky and ask to himself. 

"Lómion, who were you?"

On the farthest side of the world; where light, earth, and shadow had forgotten. 

A pair of blue eyes finally opened.