Manadhlaer

Chronicle Summary

Some would call it an impossible romance: a maiden of the Teleri, and a mighty warrior of the Noldor. Yet it began with an exchange of glances in the Hall of Fire. Now Manadhlaer and Themodir are betrothed, and she waits for the day his sword-oaths are fulfilled and the two can marry in peace.

Chronicle Content

At first I thought his compliments were empty, yet as he danced - clearly hoping to impress - and as we began to talk, I saw something else within him, something that also knew the gentle arts of sailing and music - and yearned for a kindred soul.

I had thought that the tender feelings of an Elf-maid for an Elf-lord were not for me. I wandered like an eternally sorrowing ghost for many yéni, from Mithlond to Doriath and back, and finally many miles across Eriador to reach the refuge of Imladris, where all the kindreds of the Eldar - even Avari! - might meet in peace and speak of common goals. Yet something about the bravery and sorrow mingled in Themodir's soul tugged at my heart. And when he allows himself a moment of joy, when he smiles, I tell you now that he is fairer, taller, mightier than a mallorn in its fullest blossom.

I understand now the might of the oaths he has sworn to protect Imladris, and all of Aman, from the encroaching Shadow. And the risk of loving a soldier is terrible - I would feel it if an enemy's blow sent his spirit to the halls of Mandos, and that grief I do not think I could overcome. Yet I will wait as long as it takes for his oaths to be fulfilled. And perhaps one day, with peace made between our kindreds, I will sail with my meleth through the rebuilt arch of the restored Alqualondë.

But I will not sail West without Themodir at my side. Our fates are entwined, as if we were two blossoms of uilos on the same stem.