This is called a stylistic experiment. If it bugs you, don't worry, chapters 6-9 will be normal.


First Argument

"You cannot be serious, Elrond!"

"We were sent to protect and reinforce Eregion. I will not return to my King to tell him we failed!"

"We have already failed! Eregion has fallen, Celebrimbor taken along with what remains of his craft. He may stay silent as to where he delivered the Three, but it will be at the cost of his life!"

"All the more reason to attack."

"All the more reason to save what we can!"

"I would hate to accuse you of cowardice, but that seems to be what I'm hearing from you, Glorfindel."

"Is it cowardice, Elrond, to wish to see those you care about safe? To wish you could reverse time and rescind the foolish acts of bravery that cost so many lives? I remember both the Nirnaeth Arnodiad and the fall of Gondolin. Maybe if pride had been put aside, vengeance forsworn, more would have lived."

"My Lords! My Lords, the enemy advances."

"Is there something else, young one?"

"My Lords…They come with Celebrimbor's body as a banner."

"I see. Go rouse the troops. We must be prepared to meet them."

"You still intend to attack."

"I do thank you for not arguing in front of the rather young, and already scared, messenger, but yes. I will not simply flee!"

"There is no shame if fleeing if you save lives in doing so Elrond! You would not be here if that were the case!"

"I am well aware of my heritage Glorfindel. You are free to flee if you wish, but I am not leaving without one last attempt!"

"Walk away from me if you wish, Peredhel. Curse the stubbornness of the House of Finwë! Will they never learn that all it does is lead to their deaths!"


"My Lord, the Lord Glorfindel approaches."

"Thank you. You may return to your post."

"Yes, My Lord."

"So you're not running."

"I swore an oath to both your father and Lord Manwë to protect you, Eärendilion. I don't break my oaths."

There was really nothing to say to that.


I know. I know. It's short. My apologies. However, the next one and the one after that are all right next to each other chronologically, so I don't feel too bad. You'll find out what happens next. As soon as I get around to writing it...