The Wrath of a Gremlin
The year 394 of the first age, Hrávo is 46, Maeglin 74, Erinion 14
Looking at his child Maedhros wish he could go to his mother and beg for forgiveness for everything he and his siblings ever put her through. He has been through war, and 30 years in captivity under the enemy, but none of it prepared him to the madness of parenting a genius magical elfling. Not even 6 younger siblings, and various cousins. Luckily, he at least has Eöl and Aredhel to write to, and sure Lómion is only a peramaia with a healthy childhood, but he was also a genius, so there was at least someone to commiserate with? (At Istyar’s 30th begetting day Eöl was a little unsettled when he asked who was his child Maiar parent, he was very discomforted when the only response was that some questions don’t need to be answered.) Curufin that arsehole keeps pointing out that at least Tyelpë is only metaphorically magical.
The reason he is currently sitting here wondering what he did to deserve such madness is that his little balrog learned about the oath of Fëanor. What and how to tell hinya about the oath was a source of great turbulence to him and his siblings. They were all under the agreement that despite his little one being so much more mature than elves his age ever should be, he is still an elfling, and deserved a burden free childhood. Unfortunately, due to past trauma any concealment of information regarding himself or his family would be regarded as a breach of trust.
They might not have realized it at the time they made the oath, but they have since felt just how compelling and all-encompassing it is. Curufin thanks the maker every day that Tyelpë is not under its influence. He and his siblings had many discussions over the matter, each had a strong opinion with valid arguments to support it. Curufin, and Celegorm were firm believers that he should wait for Istyar to be of age before he tells him of the oath and of the ramifications. Caranthir, and Fingon argued he should do so after his little one reached 60, saying it was still too early, but waiting any longer would not end well. Maglor and Ambarussar knew his little one enough to state that they should have told him as soon as he was settled, any more stalling would only backfire. Maedhros decided it was safest to explain to his child early on so he won’t learn it from a different source. Istyar’s trust is hard earned, the last thing he wants is for his hinya to think he is hiding things from him in a misguided attempt to protect him.
It was with great reluctance that Maedhros sat with his child and told him about the day the tainted one murdered his great grandfather Finwë, and his grandfather’s Fëanor reaction to it. As he was explaining the circumstances, and what the oath entailed he made sure to emphasize to his babe to never repeat it, nor voice it in any way shape or form. He forbade his little one to even look in to the phrasing of the oath so he wouldn’t fall under its influence. What he hadn’t realized as he was holding his little one was that the child was internally raging.
When he finally finished explaining it all to his babe, Istyar was glaring at him. He was so angry that he was chirping instead of talking, as he was making that animal sound, the elfling gradually turned to a stocky, short, elongated, creature with claws. Hinya was going around the room raging and chirping running around in circles on his strong leg, it was a very confusing sight, and Maedhros was not sure how to handle it. His little elfling turned to an overgrown ferret with terrifying claws and teeth and he has no idea how to have him turn back. He tried picking him up but he was too angry to settle, then his little one stopped, ran to him, and started to climb him. The overgrown ferret looked at him with his green eyes that were shinning eerily, and connected to him with ósanwë. He then proceeded to berate him about the stupidity of making a vow using words of power, especially in a time of anger and grief. His little one than called Hedwig and have her take the two of them to his siblings where he berated each of them.
It was quite the sight to see the sons of Fëanor each getting chased by an angry overgrown ferret with claws that was chirping nonstop. Maglor was so shocked he screamed until the window in his office shattered. Curufin nearly broke his hand because he was working at the time. Amrod and Amras were in the middle of a hunt, and having a vicious looking ferret chasing them whilst yelling at them through ósanwë made them leap so high that they ended up in a tree. Celegorm was so confused he ended up shooting an arrow, that somehow got stuck in Istyar’s fur, which led to his brother getting yelled at by himself and Hedwig, whilst the overgrown combative ferret was chasing Huan. And the less said about Caranthir’s reaction the better.
To outsiders it looked like the sons of Fëanor were chased by an angry looking ferret. In reality, they were being berated via ósanwë about the idiocy of making a magically binding oath that will compel them to achieve completion. It was very unsettling to have a 46-year-old elfling be so knowledgeable about binding oaths, and compulsion spells. Worse, he provided them with horrifying examples of how an oath can push and manipulate them. (Including a very detailed and gruesome history of the Peverell family and their oath to Death) Maedhros is fairly certain that were it not for her refusal his child would have found a way to Mandos’ halls and lectured his father with the same level of rage. Istyar then proceeded to kidnap Curufin and Maglor and instructed them to plan a heist. He, himself is not sure on the details, all he knows is that both of his siblings are trapped in his son’s library trunk until they can provide a feasible plan to get the Silmarils. When he tried to get yonya to release them Istyar told him not to worry they have enough supplies to last over 2 months. That wasn’t as reassuring as he thought it was.
The problem was that he was stuck with an enraged ferret looking creature for a child, and he was not sure how to get his elfling back to normal ish… thankfully Alges and Maethorion were used to his child’s antics and were able to calm him down. He didn’t know the details but this wasn’t the first time his child’s guards had to talk Istyar back from his animal form. According to them every time he was beyond angry, he turned in to a creature called a honey badger, when he asked why they didn’t tell him they looked at him confused and said they thought he knew.
Turns out that a couple of years back, as Maglor was singing Istyar to sleep, Amras and Amrod pranked them, and in the process accidentally ruined something Maglor gifted the elfling. Istyar was so angry he turned in to the creature, which ended up with a badger chasing after the twins, as Maglor and the two guards trying to stop the madness. It took a lot of work, but eventually they calmed him down enough to turn back in to his mad elfling. When he asked his little one why he didn’t tell him, Istyar looked at him with his angelic smile and said ‘I didn’t want to ruin your surprise…’ and of course his brothers had no problem assisting the little balrog with his mischief. Eru grant him strength.…
Disturbingly, after 3 weeks of being held hostage by his gremlin, Káno and Curufin were allowed out and had a plan to present. The two had a crazed look that promised madness, but considering who their father is, it wasn’t that surprising. The plan they presented was impressive, it required very little use of Istyar’ abilities, though they are utilizing something that is called portkey as an exit strategy, and expanding bags for supplies, they decided they might as well use the chance to get all the prisoners out.
Oddly as they were presenting their plan to the rest of his siblings both Istyar and Caranthir were overwhelmed with visions. Caranthir kept seeing Morgoth standing with his crown complete, whereas Istyar was getting a message telling him to keep the crown intact. From what his child could interpret they needed to keep their theft unknown, meaning replace the silmarils with a duplicate without anyone being the wiser. (At least they hope) Tyelpë quickly suggested to make replica jewels and have Istyar add runes that have the ability to mimic the aura of the originals. (His nephew really went all in learning everything he could about runes and their application.) This solution was sound but they still needed the process of replacing it from Morgoth’s crown to go unnoticed. The original plan had Káno singing him to sleep, but that would leave him aware of what happened.
Disturbingly it was his Amar that had a solution. Apparently, there is a potion recipe that would knock out a herd of aggressive dragons, it just needed to brewed. The twins have been experimenting enough with potions that they have the skills to use, while Istyar can lend the power to the process so it would work on a corrupted Valar… Hopefully?
There were a few other contingencies in case that did not work, but the option of the knock out gas was the best way to not getting caught. It was unclear how it was all going to work, but either way it was a plan that allowed them to get all the prisoners out and provided an immediate exit strategy. So, either way it was a risk worth taking
There was a debate on whether the prisoners should or should not be taken to a different location, as a precaution. It was Curufin who finally pointed out that the reason Himring was the chosen destination for the prisoners is because of the wards and the portkeys. Portkeys are the means to get everyone out, and after he studied all the information they had, Istyar made a few so they could test how it works. It seems that just like every other magic from Istyar’s original world this too has a local twist to it. Unlike earth in Arda it is limited in distance before it gets unstable. Out of all the possibilities in range Himring is the safest and most controlled destination thanks to the wards. They are most powerful here, as such would be the best at recognizing if any of them are a concern. Considering the wards have singled out several spies as soon as they stepped foot in Himring over the years he can see their point.
With that in mind they decided that instead they will create a different area with in the wards for the prisoners to recover, and Istyar insisted he added a boost for the main ward stone. This compromise did not make him happy, but it did help. This way they will receive the healing they deserve, but not be immersed in the operations of Himring, let alone come in contact with Istyar. These elves deserved help, but he still needed to prioritize the safety of his people, and of his yonya in particular.
It ended up being Curufin and Amras that would be doing the actual stealing, and placing the decoy stones. Maglor, Amrod and four of Maglor’s soldiers were in charge of getting the prisoners out. Initially Maedhros, Caranthir, and Celegorm wanted to be part of this but a scathing rebuttal from hinya and they quickly shut their mouths. His child made it clear that there was no room for ego, too many participants can actually increase the options of things going wrong. He didn’t like it, but it was a justification he couldn’t argue against. Not to mention they can’t all go, they are still the lords of these lands, and their people depend on them.
As they were preparing for the mission they knew that they had to limit the information about it, as such the rest of his force continued the regular operations while they worked separately. His people knew better than to ask. Caranthir, Celebrimbor, and Istyar were working relentlessly to make sure the gear and enchantments intended for the mission were beyond perfect. Curufin, Amrod, Amras, and Maglor and the four guards, went over the intelligence they had gathered to make sure they missed nothing. (Initially they were going to have some of Nelyo’s scouts go, but Káno quickly said that if they won’t take these four they might mutiny. After seeing their reaction to what the mission is he agreed.)
Every day as they were preparing the eight elves preformed every drill in stealth Celegorm and he could come up with without complaint. When it was time to go, they all wished them luck knowing that even though they are each carrying a personal portkey, that was tested a dozen times, it offered no guarantee. (The four guards were very confused when they first experienced the ‘joy’ of portkeys, but loved the expanded packs Istyar had made for them with unadulterated delight. It was a nice confirmation that his reactions are normal.)
Nine weeks passed before anything happened, then the first wave of prisoners was transported to the healing halls. They had guards at all time in the designated arrival space in case those coming in are not friendly, he trusted the wards to react appropriately, but that did not mean he was going to be careless. To help speed along the process they had teams designated to move the prisoners from the arrival spot and to the healer’s care allowing the healers to focus on their job, while teams focused on keeping the landing spot clear. (His seconds were the only ones that were informed beforehand to enable them to make preparations.) Four days later the constant wave of prisoners finally stopped. It wasn’t until two more days had passed that Maglor and Amrod and , the rest of the team were sent back with eleven more prisoners, all that had clearly been under Morgoth’s ‘care’ for a long time. Five hours later Curufin and Amras made it back with the containment bag holding the silmarils. Amras yelling ‘it worked’ and collapsing on the floor was enough to understand that it went as well as it could have.
Everyone was recovering in the healing halls while Maedros, Celebrimbor and hinya took the Silmarils for cleansing as was initially planned. (Istyar repeatedly warned them that Morgoth’s corruption is not something to trifle with, and as such they have taken precautions not to touch them). When they entered Istyar’s’ magical tent, they went to a premade warded room so Celebrimbor and his son could run some diagnostics with his magic to see what they have to deal with. After four hours they came out of the room, Istyar cursing up a storm, while his cousin is carrying the bag and chasing after him with a pale face. He ran to the library trunk and looked for books in a section they were all warned never to go near. Once he found the book he wanted, Istyar compared what looked like a scroll full of the diagnostic results (he practiced it enough that they can all recognize it by now) to the information in the book only to curse even more vehemently.
“We need to go to the place you found me, and we need to go now. It is important the escort coming with me will be a total of either three, or seven, any other number will cause issue.” and then he went to another room, presumably to pack. He, himself went to make sure his people were aware of his absence, and had Celegorm, Huan and four of hinya’s personal guard come with him to escort his son. It was rather amusing to have Istyar inform them that with Huan they have a count of 8, the elfling didn’t even dignify a response to Celegorms jokes. Once all were settled, they started the confusing mad dash to the hill leaving Caranthir and Tyelpë to monitor their family’s condition.
When they arrived to where Hrávo was found, his child started removing his clothes remaining with nothing but his leggings and a simple tunic. As he was drawing something in the center of the top of the hill he started talking; “Whatever happens, do not intervene. By the end of it I will likely be unconscious and sleep off the magical exhaustion.” None of them were pleased with this, but they recognized that look of determination and anger. This was not something that was open for negotiations, if they don’t cooperate Hrávo might take drastic measures. In times like these Maedhros really want to have a ‘conversation’ with the adults in yonya’s life before he came to them. There is no one else he could even consider is at fault for his little one’s inability to stand down when he believes it’s important, no matter what it means to himself. He learned to come to them for help, and finally started to pace himself, but when he gets this look in his eyes it’s better to go along and mitigate the consequences.
Hrávo took out the three stones using the smiths’ tongue, being constantly careful not to touch them, he placed the jewels in a circle inside a triangle he had drawn. All of them noticed the sick aura coming from his Atars’ creations. What’s more it wasn’t the vibrant fiery red, but a dark almost blood like color that just seemed wrong. They watched quietly as Hrávo then proceeded to sit in the center of the markings and started to sing in Quenderin. When his child learnt the language, he wasn’t sure, but at this point he was not surprised. It wasn’t until Ravnirn stiffen beside him that he realized what is going on. His hinya was calling for help from the Creator, his mad 46-year-old elfling is beseeching Eru Ilúvatar directly for help!!!
Hrávo still doesn’t understand how he found himself dealing with this shit again. First, he discovered his idiotic Atar and just as ridiculous uncles took a magically binding oath in a time of grief and anger, an oath that would compel and eventually drive them mad in order for it to be achieved. He was grateful that, at least, unlike the Peverell this oath was on an individual base and was not beholden to the entire line.
Then his uncles come through with the theft, along with maintaining a certain level of secrecy that was required only to now realize they have a far greater problem. His supposedly smart nóatar trapped parts of his fëa in the damn stones. So now not only does he need to cleanse the stones themselves, but also the pieces of his nóatar Fëanor’ fëa and have them reach him in Mando’s’ halls. His family, for a supposed line of millennia old geniuses, are just a collection of dumb arses!
He started singing, hoping against hope that he was right and the force guiding him was actually the all father. Over the years there was someone whispering to him when not to do something, and suggesting certain things he should look in to. One of the reasons he chose to pay attention was because never once had the whispers suggested a line of action to take, and when it pointed out on things to investigate it never pushed him to act, this allowed him the flexibility of choice. The other thing that kept him respectfully following the warnings was because this felt similar to his time when he transitioned to an elf; there was a certain warmth, and comfort that was familiar in his soul and magic.
As he was singing his plea, he found himself surrounded by song and light, the warmth he always associated with the whispers was all around him. It was waiting to see what he shall do next.
“Thank you for granting me this audience great one” he said uncertainly…
There was a chuckle, “now, now little one, since when are you so formal?…”
‘Since communicating with an all-powerful deity…’ he thought sarcastically, only to realize he was very clearly heard if the laughter was any indication.
“Worry not child, do not be shy, you called me for a reason… “welp, at least the all father was amused, it’s a better reaction to his insolence he then he had heard in a while.
“Thank you all-father… I would please beseech your assistance in the cleansing and restoration of the Silmarillion’s, and my nóatar Fëanor’s fëa. I recognize that Fëanor has caused this harm to himself, but with how the pieces of his being are connected to the jewels it is clear it was not done intentionally. Please all father, help my nóatar.” He knew he was begging, but he didn’t know who else can help him. This was too big of a problem, and he was still a child that didn’t really know what he was doing. Just because he can recognize the issue does not mean that he has any idea on how to even begin to fix it. The elfling did not realize he is spiraling from how worried he is.
“Calm child, I shall help. You did well coming to me.” He was so relieved. “If I’m not wrong there is something else you have been wanting to ask, yet suddenly you are keeping quiet… hmmm… what was it you called it? The latest proof they are idiots with too much power…” now he was embarrassed, he had many rants about the idiocy of the Valar, of Mandos and Manwe in particular. And if the teasing coming from the All-Father is any indication, he was very aware. Well in for a penny in for a pound…
“Frankly my lord, I do not understand the idiocy behind the doom of the Noldor. It is one thing to punish those that directly caused harm, but to place a curse over an entire group of people indiscriminately simply because they wanted to move away shows a disturbing lack of wisdom. Not to mention that there were two parties in the conflict and yet the Noldor are the only ones carrying the shame from that horrific day, so clearly the problem is not the kin slaying, but leaving Valinor.
What’s more is that the reason these individuals left Valinor was because the Valar showed a consistent lack of forethought in their actions that directly endangered us all. The worst example was releasing Morgoth without anything in place to keep him in check. After everything it took to capture him in the first place, they let that psych out expecting all to be well. Everything he did and all it took was some nice words to show he was reformed, and worse, they had no precautions put in place for his inevitable actions. Not only did they fail in their responsibility in containing a known threat, they then had the audacity to come to my nóatar with demands knowing full well that something was amiss.
You cannot tell me none of them recognized something was off with Fëanor, I am an inexperienced elfling and even I know that there were outside factors influencing him. There is no way Mandos, Irmo, or Estë did not recognized how damaged his fëa was, nor the corruption and manipulation inflicted on his mind by Morgoth. My cousin Tyelpë even observed it and he’s a bloody smith with no real social skills! They didn’t even apologize for the damage they allowed, only came forth with demands?!” The all father didn’t react but encouragement was sent through the link.
“Then the people they were charged with protection want to leave, witnessing the Valar’s lack of care one too many times. They have the audacity to ‘permit’ it but block any aid to allow for matters to go peacefully, then when things go predictably wrong, they have the further audacity to look surprised, again! Anyone with half a brain knows that what happened in Alqualondë was a tragedy that happened due to heated minds not thinking straight. What do the Valar do, punish all the Noldor for ‘rebelling’ and killing of ‘innocent’. Never mind those ‘innocent’ were also part of the escalation of the violence and also killed, nor that their curse harmed more innocents than us fëanorians would ever be able to even with their damn curse tarring our minds forcing us in that direction. Their ‘Doom’ cursed elflings for crying out loud!!! They choose to cause so much pain because the people they failed repeatedly wanted to immigrate away from them.”
Hrávo knew he needed to calm himself, Eru Ilúvatar is not the one who caused this, or so he hoped. He doesn’t know if he would be able to handle it if the All-Father himself is ok with this madness. He understands that Eru and the Valar are primordial beings, their perceptions and morals are inherently different than those of the elves, not to mention the rest of the species of Arda. He can’t expect them to comprehend social behaviors acceptable to them rest of them, but Morgoth is their responsibility, they didn’t even do anything to try and recapture him. And not only did they let their monster go, they were shocked by the elves’ lack of trust as a result. What did they expect was going to happen?
And the audacity to place the Doom on all of those that left, indiscriminately cursing even innocents’ souls that merely wanted to immigrate, along with their descendants. How does this make any sort of sense? Not only did the punishment not fit the crime, it was placed on individuals who committed none of it. Hrávo realized he was spiraling, but the Valar reminded him too much of the wixen back on earth. No logic in the decisions they make, complete lack of care on who gets harmed in the process as long as they achieved what they needed. He might as well change Manwe’s name to Dumbledore with his machinations and his inability to take responsibility for his actions. He needs to stop; he is getting off track.
Unbeknown to the elfling his thoughts might as well be voiced out loud, he is in communication with a primordial force as he puts it, the rules are different. Though the All-Father can recognize that he is conversing with a babe, one who is speaking sense. When Death approached him about bringing the child to Ea, he saw no harm in allowing the babe a real chance in life, initially he was going to place him with Mandos, allow him time to recover from his first life. Then he considered Death’s warning, and why the child had to be removed from his original realm. Leaving him with the Ainur was a recipe for disaster, this is a being of change, a child that cannot sit back and watch as the world burns. He loves completely, and goes to great length to help those he claims as his. That was when Eru observed that there was a perfect candidate to provide him the care that he needed. Since the little one is all but guaranteed to shift the music, he might as well be placed where his voice can harmonize the best, if the timing happened to start a chain of events to prevent and undo some long-term damage that was just a lovely side effect. He must admit, he is liking the results.
“All-Father forgive my impertinences, but I must ask are you actually in support of the doom?” He knew he was being horrifically out of line, and he would be lucky to come out of this intact, but he just could not comprehend how Eru Ilúvatar of all beings would support something so cruel.
The constant amusement he was getting from the All-Father was a little disconcerting. “You know little one, when Death placed you in my realm I was warned not to get attached to any plans or solutions I might have allowed to take place. I am now beginning to understand just how much I underestimated the warning. Though I cannot say that I am dissatisfied.” That’s comforting? “Your insolence should not be encouraged, though I can’t help but agree with your reasoning. Do not misunderstand little one, just because the curse is lifted does not mean it would not be activated again to any that slay their kin. Nor any that assist. They will be required to go to Mandos to face both judgment and healing.” He was so relieved to not be smote on the spot, but then again Eru Ilúvatar was never known for being petty, he’s not the Valar. He was also in complete agreement with the stipulation; do the crime, do the time. What’s more, just because you didn’t actually do the killing, doesn’t mean you didn’t facilitate.
“I must warn you little one, your actions are starting to get noticed. Take care with how you move forward from now on. The Ainur have already been warned not to approach you without your leave, though they are aware of you being kin. That does not prevent those in Arda from taking action that does not agree with you.” With that disturbing note Hrávo felt the warmth around him intensify and a song that was quietly in the background increased until suddenly there was no more, and then there was darkness.
Maedhros wasn’t sure what to do, his hinya was sitting in the center of a pillar of light, and music. Celegorm and the guards were spread around the ritual circle just as frozen in shock. It has been hours since he started singing, apparently, he has been conversing with the All-Father because that’s an option? For the love of all that is good in the world he really hopes the little gremlin is not berating Eru Ilúvatar about whatever it is that’s on his mind. He knows his hinya enough to be aware that is a valid concern.
Suddenly the light intensified until it was so blinding they couldn’t even look in the direction, then without warning it all just stopped. When everything was back to normal Maedhros noticed his little one laying in the middle of it all with the silmarils holding the same shine they did when they were still in Valinor. When he approached to get Istyar, Celegorm stopped him, his angry look must have been severe enough hint to his brother to get his point across.
“Can’t you sense it? Stop for a moment and allow your fëa the freedom to feel what’s around you.” Celegorm and himself both stopped and centered themselves, he reached with his fëa to his environment only to realize there was a lightness that wasn’t there in centuries, it took him a little time to understand but when he finally did it was undeniable. The Doom was gone… the curse placed by Mandos was over, and if the sequence of events was any indication it was done by the Creator personally.
Nelyo felt like he was in a haze, but he still rushed to get to Hrávo, Celegorm took the Silmarils still careful not to touch them until his nephew tells him that it is safe. They rode back to Himring as swiftly as they could. Four hours later they were in hinya’s rooms in Himring having Hrávo looked over by Ceutare to make sure it really is just exhaustion. When she was finally done, he was informed the little one would sleep for several days but other than that it was nothing to worry about. Him reaching magical exhaustion was not a first, but the few times he did was accidental since he was still adjusting to being an elf, so healer Ceutare knew how to recognize the signs. Now just to make sure the little gremlin rest, and stays away from the former thralls until the situation with them is resolved.
When he finally received the report about the liberated prisoners, he was grateful they sent for more healers from his brothers’ territories in preparation, though they did need to expand the designated area for them. 37 prisoners had to be contained due to the wards viewing them as a threat, hopefully a cleansing from the corruption will help with that. Medically there were 94 prisoners that are in long term recovery and it will require a lot of effort to help them, not to mention that 23 of the elves had such damage done to their fëa, their hroa started reflecting the corruption. Thankfully the majority of the prisoners bodies are not in debilitating condition though that does not mean that they’re fine, they would need to mellow those in the short-term recovery.
According to Ceutare that had they not had the potions that they were introduced to over the past two decades the former thralls would not have had such a relatively positive path to recovery. (In the past two decades Istyar has shared 67 more potion recipes, along with several plants from his old realm. Some were helpful to the hroa, others were focused more with the healing of the fëa. Though potions assisting in pregnancy and child care were revolutionary.) On that note he went back to his little ones’ room so he could monitor his menace, and allow the healers to work without interference. His people knew what they were doing, they had several weeks to prepare for the influx of thralls, they didn’t need him to tell them how to do their job.
It took over a week before things settled down enough for them to properly sit down and review everything that happened. Maglor, Curufin, Amrod, and Amras made a full recovery, but Hrávo was still exhausted. Though he did inform them that the jewels were now safe to touch, encouraging Maedhros to hold the Silmarils thus releasing them all from that damn oath. Each of his brothers gave a separate accounting of the mission they went on, but sitting down with everyone was still needed, especially since his Hrávo was keeping quiet saying he will only talk about it all once. The little balrog insisted that Uncle Fingolfin has to be part of the conversation. Apparently, there was something specific for him to know.
After some coordination Hedwig was able to transport both Uncle Fingolfin, and Fingon to them for an overnight stay. It took a lot of bribing to get them to come considering Erinion just turned 14, though letting them know they will be staying in the comfort of a heavily warded, luxurious magical tent probably did not hurt. He just hoped the elfling wouldn’t leave too much of a mess, Istyar would never say a thing but he really doesn’t like an unkempt living environment. When they first arrived, he and Káno took them to a different room; showed them the Silmarils, and explained the heist and the secrecy around the entire situation. (If the little one was being spoiled rotten by Caranthir as he was looking smugly at the rest of his siblings it was no one else’s concern.) Letting them know that they are using the extraction of the prisoners as the reason to them being there. This was a conversation he preferred to have away from little ears considering how gruesome it is. (Yes Tyelpë, yourself included.)
When they explained that both Caranthir, and Istyar had aggressive visions pushing them to keep the affair secret neither argued. Both were fairly shocked when Nelyo explained about the Silmarils only to further state that there was far more to tell them. They knew the Doom was removed, they could sense it, but the way Hrávo was behaving there was more going on. When they were finally all available, they gathered in Istyar’s magical tent to have the conversation. According to his hinya this discussion is too important to take chances on anything being overheard, and the magical tent is so thoroughly warded he would be surprised the Valar themselves would be able to listen. Though Tyelpë agreed to spend time with little Erinion in the play room they arranged for the munchkin and be told what was needed later.
Hrávo was looking around hoping that what he is about to tell his family won’t send them to their normal theatrics, he asked Hedwig to be around and sing calming tunes when needed, because knowing them it will be needed. Damn it all, it has been two weeks and he is still exhausted, he’s not old enough to deal with this shit.
“Let’s start with what you all are already partly aware off, I have beseeched Eru Ilúvatar for help and they agreed. The Silmarils are cleansed and the doom is lifted.” He looked around to face the incredulous yet unimpressed faces of everyone.
Celgerom snorted an Caranthir just took a deep breath, it didn’t help that Fingon, Amrod, and Amras were snickering. It was Atar that broke, “yes hinya, we figured that much out, care to elaborate why it was necessary for you to involve the All-Father? You were originally meant to use a cleansing ritual. And not that I am complaining but why you thought bringing up the doom of all things with everything else going on?” He sounded so tired. Uncles Fingolfin and Maglor just looked at him incredulous.
He took a deep breath before starting with the explanation, “I’ll start with the simple part, I didn’t bring up the doom, it seems that when I connected to communicate with the creator there were no mental barriers so he was very much aware on my thoughts on the matter. He had me voice my case mostly because he found my insolence amusing. I’m fairly certain he was looking for an excuse to lift it since it took hardly any convincing.” Uncles Curufin and Maglor simply put their heads in their hands. Uncle Fingon actually poured Atar a drink, whilst Uncle Fingolfin gave him a commiserating look. Rude!
“Anyway, the stipulation for the removal of the doom is that anyone who commits and/or facilitates another kin slaying would have the curse be specifically placed on them. They would have to personally go to Mandos to face judgment and receive proper healing for their fëa. It seemed that Eru Ilúvatar himself found that none of you deserve to be currently cursed, no matter how often you claim to be tainted.” He made sure to look each of them in the eye as he said that. Everyone was sitting around him taking it all in. Uncles Maglor and Curufin just held the arms of their seats frozen like statues, they both had tears in their eyes. Ambarussar were sitting there looking at him mumbling incoherently. Celegorm just kept opening and closing his mouth not making any sound. Uncles Fingolfin and Fingon had a side hug as they were quietly giggling, it was somewhat disconcerting. As for Atar, he just hugged him whilst asking the All-Father for strength.
‘You are aptly named nephew…’ Uncle Caranthir said quietly, receiving plenty of incredulous agreeing nod.
Thanks to Hedwig beautiful singing everyone finally calmed enough, he was able to continue. “The reason I was so angry when I did an in-depth diagnostic on the Silmarils and ran in panic to beg the All-Father for help was because as much as Nóatar was praised to be a genius I now have irrefutable proof to him being a dumb arse.” The unimpressed looks he received from everyone did not deter him. Though he did notice some of them suppressing amusement.
“Uncle Fingolfin, after Nóatar made the silmarils something changed about him right… he was more erratic right, emotional but in an aggressive way.” he looked at his great-Uncle knowing what to expect.
“Yes… he was always prone to anger but it seemed more extreme…” he looked at Istyar with some confusion. How did the child know?
It was Curufin that added “He was also obsessive about the jewels, like he couldn’t get them out of his sight.” Istyar looked around knowingly. Káno, Atar, and Tyelko looked at him with concern, the others were still very confused.
It was Amrod that voiced it, “Atar did say that if he lost the silmarils he would lose himself.” He said while looking at the wall deep in memory.
Istyar wasn’t surprised, “I’m not sure if he was actually aware, but it was being quite literal.” Everyone now looked at him closely trying to understand what he is saying. “It wasn’t just the light of the two trees he trapped in the stones, but also part of his fëa… his obsession over his creations were his fëa instinctively wanting to be whole again.” His family looking back at him in horror trying to process what it was he was saying. “From the way it was placed in the silmarils made it clear that it was not intentional, the pieces of his fëa that were trapped there had a certain level of incompletion in the connection.” He stopped talking for a while letting his family time to absorb what he was telling them. Uncle Maglor actually threw up from how horrified he was. Celegorm was walking around like a caged animal, Fingon and Fingolfin were holding to one another trying to find solid ground. The Ambarussar looked on the verge of banging their head against the nearest surface. Uncle Curufin was mumbling to himself as if trying to solve an unsolvable puzzle, while Uncle Caranthir was cursing up a storm… Atar didn’t even bother to reprimand them as he was holding him for dear life, trying to make sense of this madness.
When they were a little less emotional Istyar continued. “I had to get Eru Ilúvatar’s help because it was not a simple matter of cleansing magical artifacts of corruption. The pieces of the fëa were also influenced by the proximity to Morgoth. I knew I lack both the knowledge and experience to cleanse, heal, and restore Nóatars’ fëa. Frankly with the exception of Mandos I don’t know of anyone else that has the skill needed.” Everyone just let that sink in.
It was Uncle Caranithir that suddenly asked, “do you think the Valar knew? About’Atars’ fëa being trapped I mean…” everyone around him seemed just as perplexed.
“About it being in the Silmarils I have no idea, about it being broken it is impossible for Mandos, Estë and Irmo to see him and not recognize the damage.”
As everyone were processing this his Uncle Káno was side eyeing him, he knew it was either him Amras to figure it out. “Nephew, I know there is something else you are not telling us. Something we would not be pleased about.” He looked at him with a raised brow. His father stiffened beside him.
“Well… according to the All-Father I am starting to get noticed…” he braced himself
“What?!?! By whom, hinya how worried should I be!” His Atars booming voice was overwhelming him, but he could see the fear in his eyes so he tried to calm himself. As everyone were shouting in panic Hedwig started to sing her most soothing melody, it worked, to an extent…
“Look I’m not sure what the creator meant, but he wanted me to be aware. He also informed me that the Ainur were instructed not to approach me unless I give them leave. So at least there’s that…” he tried to spin this to something positive, but he knew that it was pointless. Talking his Atar and Uncles out of panic and paranoia was impossible when their fears were confirmed by the All-Father himself.
“I can’t believe this madness, my 46-year-old great-nephew has orchestrated; the return of the silmarils, restoration of my idiotic brother’s fëa, and release of the Doom of the Noldor. All while having a chat with the Eru Ilúvatar, as one does off course. And to top it all off, that imposable madness in not the reason Istyar is in danger.” Uncle Fingolfin looked exhausted. “I think we need a break, and I need to go play with my grandson so I can get my bearings.” They all strongly agreed or as Uncle Maglor said ‘a break and playing with elflings is the best way to survive this madness.’
On a random note, spending time with Erinion made it clear to Istyar why his family was often confused by himself and Maeglin’s maturity and skills. It seemed peramaia really do mature differently from elves, his cousin was the equivalent of a two year old human, which according to his Atar was normal for an elfling his age. When he first arrived around the same age he was already talking and writing fluently in multiple languages, then he realized that he retained his original mind from his old world, it was only physical body that changed. It also clarified to him why he was behaving far less mature and less contained than he used to be. His body was pretty much de-aged, the brain chemistry alone would influence his behavior. Istyar was not sure how to feel about the epiphany.
By the time Erinion was exhausted and napping on his nóatar everyone calmed and were able to discuss matters with a somewhat sound mind, including Tyelpë that was taken aside by his Atar to be shocked in to silence by everything he learned. So now he was pretty much instructed to not leave the fort without an army around him until at least his 3rd century. Which hopefully once they would calm down that particular precaution would be eased up a little, hopefully….
Another precaution to be implemented is that from now on he will have a designated room connected to his and ’Atars’ set of rooms that will be thoroughly warded and locked. From now on he would use his trunks and tents only in this room for his special projects, studies, and training his wixen magic. They all recognized that he needed to train and study in order to have better control, but it didn’t mean they wanted him exposed even to those with in the castle that they trust. Especially now that they have all the thralls that are recovering and were unclear in what state they were in.
An important change that will happen in the fortress was that they are going to arrange, and ward an area restricted to family, and trusted personal like Fingon has for Erinion in Himlad. They are going to add the secrecy wards used in Erinion’ space to prevent anything further about Istyar from spreading. According to Curufin and Celebrimbor expanding the spaces so Istyar wouldn’t be as restricted in movement wouldn’t be difficult at all, especially with Istyar himself charging the rune arrays allowing for more complex options. Fingolfin asked if it was possible to do the same for Erinion down the line, which again was a non-issue since Istyar visits them once a year to charge the wards, staying another day to charge the rune arrays wouldn’t really be a hardship. (Even that is more of a precaution so he wouldn’t overextend himself)
Fingon raised the concern of suddenly restricting Istyar from Maedhros’ people might be perceived as lack of trust and that he needs to be careful with how he goes about it. His Atar laughed it off; “if anything they would be relieved, had the little menace not made his opinion on staying here with me painfully clear at the mere mention of even a relocation, my people would have revolted. When I say painfully, I mean it in the literal sense, some even got a concussion from the things he threw at them. The only thing keeping them somewhat calm is the combination of the wards we raised and the concessions we got the gremlin to agree to. I am still restricted by my own people about going in the field until further notice, even though I am technically the one in charge.” Well, that is oddly comforting.
As to the thralls it was decided that as soon as they were stable enough, they would have them moved to either Thargelion under Caranthir’s rule where they would have a better chance to try and re-build a life. Or if they wanted to be more active in the conflict either the Gap of Maglor, or Eldamar under the Ambarussar. The twins could use the reinforcement and were secluded enough that the thralls would have time to recover with less pressure. Whereas the gap would be a valid option to those that really want to fight back as Celegorm pointed out. Fingolfin initially suggested that they could come to Hithlum but was soon reminded that the general public was fairly suspicious of former prisoners of Morgoth… though all three territories are going to need more healers sent their way, but that was a concern for another time once they have better understanding of the numbers.
It was decided that since Healer Ceutare is the one who worked with Istyar on the potions, and some of the rituals they appropriated for elves, she will continue working with him furthering his studies; however, they will have to wait a few decades before they release anything more considering what Istyar has already shared have drawn a lot of attention. According to Fingon and Caranthir quite a few of the other territories, not just elven have started looking more closely at Himring, and at their healing practices in particular. There were quite a few speculations that the “obscure healer” is Istyar’s mother and she is not in fact dead, but in hiding. Though according to Caranthir whenever that particular rumor came about it was mostly in a hopeful tone, or phrasing.
There is a cleansing ritual that raised even more attention than the protections everyone believe were developed by Curufin and Celebrimbor. The ritual is particularly life altering to those influenced by the corruption of Morgoth. Maedhros can personally attest to this, he hadn’t even realized how muddled his mind has been until the ritual was over and he could actually think without sinking in to despair. Ceutare made it a protocol that everyone in the fort required to have it once a year, the affect it had on all the residence was astounding, it was like a cloud was lifted from Himring. The rest of the healers in his brothers’ territories followed her lead, showing consistent results. It is safe to assume that between ritual, and the potions they appropriated, there are many eyes on them.
As for the activation for other ward systems with the exception of Nan-Elmoth where Eöl was very much aware of Istyar’s otherness, though he thought he was part Maiar, they would no longer allow the option to remain available. The rest of their family had over 20 years to think about it, and see it in action, from now on it is on them. At first Istyar was uncomfortable with that but he understood why they had to draw the line somewhere. Besides, they still had the option of the small warding stones. As for Nan-Elmoth Eöl already stated that he could explain his forest’s added protections as part of his enchantments to Doriath. Moreover, due to them being peramia both he and Maeglin can activate and strengthen the ward stones. The real problem is with the already existing ward systems is that Istyar made sure to visit each of the strongholds for a day or two once a year in order to strengthen the already powerful protections.
His hinya explained that it is better he does that in small increments and let the shields and protections build over years rather than do it all at once, overextending himself. When Eöl visited Himring in the past several years in order to study how effective the warding system is, he was fairly impressed with not just how thorough they are, but the fact that he could easily tell how powerful they had gotten. According to him in the past 16 years since he first studied the protections the ward system, they created can and will hold of a direct attack by a balrog. He observed that at the levels they currently are they could hold against constant pressure for days before breaking. When Curufin and Maedhros heard that they tried to get Hrávo to stop charging the wards, claiming it was enough, allowing the natural magics of the region to continue the process should suffice. Unfortunately, something was bothering Hrávo warning him against stopping. Considering his hinyas’ connection to the world song they knew better than to argue. This means that between Himring, The Gap, Thargelion, Eldamar, Nargothrond, Himring, Amon Ereb, and Dorthonion Istyar already had eight ward stones he insisted on strengthening once a year. The last thing any of them wanted was to add to that.
They added a few more stipulations to Istyar, including increasing his combat, song, and tracking training. He was too young for such an intense routine but a personal warning from the creator is not something to be taken lightly. They spoke well in to the night, and none were surprised by Istyar not even bothering to keep up and simply going to sleep on Nelyo. He was still exhausted from everything, not to mention it was way past his bed time, and he didn’t need them to voice that none of them were comfortable letting him out of their sight.
It was Tyelpë that looked at both Fingolfin and Fingon pointing out that they should probably warn Aredhel, and Eöl to increase Lómions’ training as well. Being peramaia was bound to get him similarly unwanted attention, and the last thing they wanted was for the little one to be harmed. It was decided that it would be best for the warning to come from Nelyo considering he was a parent in a similar situation, thus it would be better received. (They were all very much aware of how Thingol’s controlling behavior was having an adverse effect on Eöl. After having to deal with that moth headed twat Fingolfin couldn’t really blame his son in law for his unease.)
Once everyone felt less panicked thanks to having a working plan most of them headed back to their strongholds, (Fingolfin and Fingon were extremely appreciative of Hedwig for shortening months of travel, though Erinion was charmed by the pretty bird.) Celegorm and Celebrimbor stayed in order to be Istyar’s tutors. (The fight over that privilege was long and vicious, how Celegorm and Celebrimbor managed to get the upper hand no one really knew.) Thankfully once a routine was established things managed to settle down, though that did not stop the little gremlin from getting in to mischief. The poor thralls were not prepared for the prank wars between Celegorm, Mylia, and Istyar no matter how much the three toned it down, though they were at least kept entertained so that was something?
It took over two years, but the changes to his fort were done efficiently, as predicted the people following him were relieved by the added security to the elfling, and in fact complained about it only happening now. It is not that there weren’t restricted areas designated to the gremlin, it’s just that it wasn’t to this extent. When Maedhros explained that he only now managed to get Istyar to cooperate because he was able to present him with proof of the danger he was in, none were pleased. Though it helped that Istyar’s personal guards experienced the gremlins antics enough to back him up on just how helpless the lord of Himring truly is in the face of the menace. His people appreciated that the main issue is that the gremlin couldn’t grasp how he is in danger around any of them, he refused to be restricted in his own home/fortress, not understanding that they are not the source of the concern.
Another pleasant development is that the 37 former thralls that had to be contained recovered quite well thanks to the cleansing ritual, and were able to relocate rather smoothly. The entire group as a whole agreed, and even preferred to move to Eldamar, reinforcing Ambarussar’ forces and staying as far as possible from any option to cause issues to the greater forces against the enemy.
Many of the former thralls moved to Thargelion under Caranthir’s lordship, they were very much aware of how they would be treated elsewhere, and didn’t really want to deal with it. Having an area that allowed them to live without the constant fighting was probably best for their recovery. Surprisingly quite a few joined Maglor in the Gap, needing to be at the front lines proving they still had fight in them, Maedhros couldn’t say he didn’t understand. What did surprise them all is that a group of 17 Avari elves moved to Eldamar, they honestly expected them to go to an Avari or Sindar settlements the first chance they had, but other than send word to their families that they are alive and recovering they preferred to follow the twins.
According to Ceutare none of them really felt comfortable leaving their rescuers, it didn’t hurt that the wards they have on their territories were encouraging and strengthening the fëa. She then added that all of those that were rescued were well aware that the treatments they were getting along with the yearly spiritual cleansing were not available elsewhere and they did not want to risk the fragile stability they managed to achieve. It saddened him, but it was predictable. He can barely remember the time after his captivity, Fingon was by his side for years because whenever he was too far Maedhros would panic. As a prince of the Noldor he had access to the best treatment for his recovery and he is well aware that it does not hold a candle to the level of treatments they currently have. If he were in their place, he would not have risked it either.
What flabbergasted him was that nine of those they rescued asked to stay and serve under him. From what he knew they were the prisoners that were held in captivity the longest, some even longer than his 30 years. They still had a long road to recovery, and each of them was very vocal that they are not interested in fighting. The answer came from his little elfling, apparently his little project worked a little too well and now they had more permanent tenants that were going nowhere.
A little after Tyelko started training Istyar they ran in to a problem, how do you teach his elfling tracking, and camouflage if you can’t take him outside of the castle. His munchkin quickly came up with a solution that frankly turned out to be very welcomed by everyone in his fort. Maedhros still doesn’t care to admit how easy it was for his gremlin to talk him in to building a huge greenhouse, the damn thing is 7 meters tall, and took a 130 square meters of the castle grounds. They needed to completely re-design the training yard because of that, don’t even get him started about the re-planning of the Istyar designated areas. If it weren’t for the special process Curufin appropriated for the glass manufacturing, from his hinya’s library the project would have cost a fortune!
Istyar then proceeded to work with Tyelpë on expanding it from the inside so it would be even more impressive. (He is too afraid to ask what are the dimensions from the inside) They had planted many trees and flowers with healing properties, placing along with various fruits trees and bushes that are problematic to this region. Gazebos were placed in various spots along paths with light fixtures, he figured since they already nurturing a forest he might as well be able to enjoy it. Thanks to his hinya’s gift with the earth the various plants were growing beautifully. Several of the former thralls they rescued were experienced with songs of power that helped nurture the growth, so they volunteered to come and help. (Which according to Ceutare probably helped the most for the mental aspect of their recovery.) It was amazing how in less than four months since they had started the planting they had the beginning of a forest. It seemed those nine elves were the ones most active in his child’s latest project and wanted to nurture it for as long as they could. When he asked Handion the head of his household for his opinion he was actually relieved, apparently, he now doesn’t have to look for someone to take their place in the project.
Nelyo was worried they might pose a security risk for his hinya, after all this was a designated safe space. But according to Tyelko, Inglor, and Faclon they mostly viewed his child as a wonder but otherwise kept their distance. They saw him a few times as they came to the baby forest, Tyelko seemed to think they didn’t want to risk upsetting anyone by going near him. Faclon, and Inglor were unsure if that was all but didn’t disagree, either way they were both in agreement that none of them showed any signs of questionable behavior/intent. Inglor also reminded him that the wards would alert him if someone had ill-intent to anyone in the castle, and to Hrávo in particular. Which has happened four times in the past year, when outsiders came to their territory to confront them about the former thralls. Apparently, some thought it suspicious that none of the former prisoners wanted to leave the fëanorians territories and thought they could go and confront the ‘war mongers’ in to letting their kin go. All four incidents ended with the assailants frozen by the wards, and later escorted away.
With the reassurance from the three, he had no issues with the former thralls working on the fledgling forest. It didn’t hurt that Celebrimbor raised the secrecy wards first chance he had when they had started to create safe areas for Istyar, so the gossip about his menace decreased significantly. Though he could have done without Tyelko bringing woodland creatures to the fledgling forest. Or worse, the little balrog turning in to the honey badger and following them around.