I 583

To the High King, Ereinion Gil-Galad
From his brother, Elenluin of Hithlum

Ereinion,

At the eve of battle, I write you this letter. I write it in the little book you gave me when I left for my first patrol. I never understood the meaning of your gift until now, now when I see all around write in similar books to their beloved ones. I am glad that I have someone to write to, to give me this book, unlike many others who have no one left in this world and whom I can see from where I’m sitting, staring in the distance, telling the stars what I’m telling you.

If you read this, I have fallen. Know that I went into this battle willingly and persuaded my commander to give me a chance, against your will. Do not punish him for the stubbornness of your little brother. I might be young, but I will take my responsibility and have part in this great battle. I’d rather die here and join my father than be considered a coward or a spoiled child that had to be kept from the real danger at all times.

As I look up to the stars, my thoughts dwell on what the morning shall bring. If we succeeded, a great evil will be gone from Arda, but I foresee that the world as we know it will be no more.
If we do not succeed… I will not let my thoughts dwell on that path, but I look up to the new star that appeared and pray that the Valar will send their help, that it is indeed Eärendil’s silmaril that shines in the sky and that he succeeded in his quest.

I thank you my friend, for the years that you took care of me and became the older brother I never had. Take care of yourself and of Eärendil’s young sons, they need your help, as I did once.

Do not mourn overly for me, for I wish you well my brother,

Elenluin