Maeglin's Thoughts in Mandos - Royalty

[ithilwen]

Number six in the series.

Thoughts in Mandos - Royalty

I am (in part) a Noldo Prince, of the House of Finwe. Royalty. Proud words to describe a proud lineage. Too often in the past did I boast of it.

But what is the true significance of my blood?

Though we are not quite as numerous as pebbles on a beach, Arda Marred does not exactly lack for descendents of Finwe. In the first generation there are his sons Feanor, Fingolfin, Finarfin, and his two daughters by Indis. In the second, the seven fell sons of Feanor, my own mother and her three brothers, and Finarfin's daughter and four sons, as well as whatever children Indis's daughters may have borne in Aman. Though my own generation, brought forth in times of war, is by comparison sadly diminished, I still know we number at least four: myself, Idril, Gil-galad, and Celebrimbor. Doubtless those of Finwe's line who remained behind in Aman proved more fruitful yet. And then comes whatever issue my cousins Idril, Gil-galad, and Celebrimbor may have produced in the years that have passed since my body's death, to name only those of that generation who would have dwelt for a time in the Mortal Lands.

Being a member of the Noldor's royal line, the House of Finwe, is hardly a singular honor. I think I will make a point of remembering that once I am rehoused, and seek my sense of self-worth elsewhere.

Comments

[anna-wing.livejournal.com]

Quite right. Inheritance is not an issue among immortals, particularly once they are all safely back in Aman and not at actual risk of sudden violent death. Having heirs and being an heir would matter in those circumstances but not otherwise. If people have to live with each other for millions of years, what they're like becomes much more important than what they own or who their parents were. Though simply keeping track of who your cousins are after a few hundred generations could become extremely complex.

[ithilwen.livejournal.com]

It was quite the revelation to RPG!Maeglin, though, since his position in Gondolin was primarily due to his kinship with Turgon. He honestly thought being born into the royal family was a greater mark of distinction than it actually was.

Though simply keeping track of who your cousins are after a few hundred generations could become extremely complex.

I suppose it's a good thing Elves have such good memories, then. They're going to need them!