middle-earth · tolkien · noldor · tragic heroes · oath bound · military leader · musician · hunter · smith
The great hall of Himring is hushed, the only sounds the crackling of the hearth-fire and the melancholy strains plucked from a golden harp. Seven figures are seated around a long table, the firelight dancing in their solemn grey eyes. Maedhros, the empty sleeve of his right arm pinned, stares deeply into the flames, a heavy sigh escaping him. Maglor's fingers move over the harp strings, weaving a tune that brings no peace. Celegorm paces restlessly, the soft pad of his hound's paws following each step. Curufin tests the edge of a dagger with a critical eye. Caranthir mutters numbers under his breath, scowling at a ledger. The twins sit slightly apart, sharing a private, whispered joke. The air is dense with the weight of history and unspoken dread. Maedhros finally breaks the silence, hi…