The cool, fragrant air of Rivendell filled the meeting room within Elrond's dwelling. Soft light streamed through large windows, reflecting colorful hues on the clean marble surfaces. In the center of the room, Elrond stood tall, his sharp eyes observing the figure who had just entered.
Thalion stepped in, wearing attire peculiar to the elves of Rivendell—a black kimono resembling samurai clothing with the emblem of a fiery red lion on his chest and back. A beautifully carved katana hung at his waist, its scabbard appearing sturdy and gleaming. Elrond furrowed his brow, regarding him with a mixture of curiosity and admiration.
Elrond began to speak in a thoughtful yet slightly surprised tone. "Your garments… I have never seen such anywhere, not even among the warriors of men or elves. Where do they originate? And that sword—a katana, is it not? Its form is very different from the ordinary swords I am accustomed to seeing."
Thalion nodded, a slight smile playing on his lips. "I come from Rohan, and these are clothes I made myself, inspired by old tales I heard from another world. This sword I have named Ryūjin Jakka. It has become my weapon in guarding Rohan."
Elrond nodded slowly, still gazing at the sword with wonder. "News of your father, Thengel, reaches us as being well. But how fares Rohan at present? I hear there is a growing threat from the creatures of darkness."
Thalion sighed, his eyes looking out the window that faced the green valley. "Rohan is fighting hard to defend its lands. We are building defensive fortresses, strengthening the people in every way. But the attacks by orcs and goblins are becoming more frequent, and I have come at Gandalf's command to meet with you and seek a way forward together."
Elrond regarded Thalion attentively, then stepped closer and clasped the crown prince of Rohan's hand. "You have come at the right time, Thalion. Let us discuss the next steps for a brighter future."
Thalion took out a bottle of wine from a small pouch—a deep red liquid that shimmered in the room's light. He knew the elves greatly appreciated beverages made from high-quality grapes.
"This, noble Elrond," Thalion said, handing over the bottle. "Wine from the vineyards of Rohan. I know elves have a fondness for such wine."
Elrond offered a subtle smile, accepting the bottle with his gentle hands. "You are correct, Thalion. This wine is exquisite, its aroma rich and fresh. Thank you."
They both sat at a finely carved wooden table. Thalion poured wine into small glasses, and they began to toast with respect.
"The situation in Rohan is growing more difficult," Thalion began. "During my journey here, I encountered several groups of orcs. They are not only damaging roads and small villages, but also growing bolder in their attacks, coming in larger numbers."
Elrond looked at Thalion seriously. "I have heard those tidings as well. These orcs seem to be rising again after a long period of hiding."
Thalion nodded, swirling the wine in his glass slightly. "Yes, I had to use abilities I have learned since childhood—combining the power of fire and sword—to protect myself. They are not easy opponents."
Elrond sighed deeply. "Rohan needs strong allies. We in Rivendell also feel the same pressures. You have already performed a noble service, Thalion."
Their conversation flowed, exchanging information and plans, accompanied by the fragrant aroma of the wine that slowly warmed the atmosphere of the meeting room.
Elrond gazed at Thalion with a meaningful look, as if tracing every layer of history hidden behind the young man's figure.
"I knew your father, Thengel," Elrond said softly. "A wise and valiant leader. And your mother, Morwen… the blood of Númenor flows within her, something rare and noble in this land."
Thalion was silent for a moment, feeling a strange tremor in his heart. Speaking with an elf like Elrond always made him feel small, like a young man just beginning his journey. Elves always knew, or could at least guess, the origins of the ancestors of those they encountered.
This is a strange feeling, Thalion thought silently. Like I am only standing at the foot of a high mountain, while Elrond is already at the summit. How much do I truly know about this world compared to him?
He bowed his head slightly, trying to control his awe. "Indeed, Lord Elrond. I feel honored to speak directly with you, and to hear tales of my family from the lips of an elf such as yourself."
Elrond smiled warmly, signaling that the conversation was not just about the past, but also about hope for the future.
Elrond gazed intently at the sword hanging at Thalion's waist. Its shape was very different from the ordinary swords he knew in Rivendell. It was slender, with a subtle curve, and from its hilt to its blade, it seemed to emit a faint but palpable vibration of energy.
"This sword… what is its name?" Elrond asked with a curious tone, his eyes fixed on the blade that gleamed in the soft light of the meeting room.
"My katana, Ryūjin Jakka," Thalion replied in a calm yet confident voice. "I made it myself, with a little… assistance. You could say I imbued my soul into it. Channeling the element of fire into its blade so it can burn my enemies."
Elrond furrowed his brow, his eyes widening with curiosity.
"Fascinating," he said. "I have never seen a sword that is so 'alive.' And you claim to have made it with your own blood? There is something very rare and powerful in that."
Thalion nodded slowly, aware that he had to guard his secrets.
"Yes… I will not explain everything," he said softly. "Suffice it to say, this sword is not just metal and fire, but also a part of me. It will be my trusted weapon in facing the encroaching darkness."
Elrond smiled faintly, as if admiring the courage and mystery that clung to the young man.
"Very well, Thalion. I can sense extraordinary strength and determination within you. You are the son of Thengel who not only carries the blood of Númenor within you, but also a burning fire of spirit."
Thalion bowed respectfully. In his heart, he knew this journey had just begun, and the power he carried had to be continuously honed to protect the land of Rohan and beyond.
Elrond looked again at Thalion's attire, so different from the elven robes or the knights' armor he usually saw in Rivendell. The dominant black color, with white details on the obi and the large lion emblem towering on his chest and back, gave an impression that was both fierce and mysterious.
"I must ask about those garments of yours," Elrond began, his eyes narrowing with interest. "Their color and form are very foreign here. Like the robes of a sorcerer, yet also like the attire of a brave knight. What is their meaning?"
Thalion smiled faintly. "Yes, I know. Sometimes people mistake me for a sorcerer like Gandalf because of my clothes. But in truth, I wear them as a symbol. These are clothes I made myself, inspired by a distant land, by ancient and powerful samurai. I wish to be a knight of that land, a fearless protector."
Elrond nodded slowly, understanding and impressed by the meaning behind the attire.
"A brave knight with the spirit of fire," Elrond said, gazing at the lion emblem on Thalion's chest. "The lion, a symbol of courage and power. These are garments that reflect your soul, not merely cloth and thread."
Thalion nodded, feeling relieved that Elrond understood more than just the outward appearance.
Thalion looked at Elrond with hopeful eyes. "Lord Elrond, I have come not only to await Gandalf. I also wish to take this opportunity to deepen my knowledge of Middle-earth. If you would permit, I would like to access the library and study the books on history, herbology, and all the knowledge contained within Rivendell."
Elrond regarded Thalion for a moment, then smiled warmly. "You are an honored guest, son of Thengel of Rohan. The library of Rivendell is open to you. Knowledge is a priceless treasure in such dark times."
"Thank you, Lord Elrond. I wish to understand this world more deeply so that I may better protect my homeland."
Elrond nodded in agreement. "Study diligently, Thalion. Many secrets and wisdom are stored within the scrolls and ancient texts here. May that knowledge strengthen your resolve."
With that permission, Thalion felt a fiery spirit ignite within his chest. Amidst the beauty and tranquility of Rivendell, he knew his journey to become a true protector had begun.
Elrond raised his hand slowly and called out in a soft yet authoritative voice, "Eve, come here."
From behind the shadows of tall trees, a female elf with shimmering silver hair gracefully approached. Her sharp yet gentle eyes immediately focused on Thalion.
"This is Thalion, son of Thengel of Rohan, who comes at Gandalf's bidding," Elrond said, gesturing towards Thalion. "Eve, I entrust him to you to escort and guide him to the library of Rivendell. He wishes to draw knowledge and delve into the lore here."
Eve smiled warmly and bowed slightly. "Of course, Lord Elrond. Thalion, I will take you. The library of Rivendell is a place full of wisdom and wonder. I am certain you will find what you seek."
Thalion returned the bow politely, "Thank you, Eve. I am ready to follow and learn from this place."
With the graceful movements characteristic of elves, Eve led the way, guiding Thalion through beautiful corridors filled with soft light and the scent of flowers. Their journey to the library felt like entering another world, full of silence and wisdom.
Eve's light steps led Thalion into the grand library of Rivendell, filled with tall wooden shelves laden with ancient tomes and dusty yet invaluable parchment scrolls. Soft light streamed through stained-glass windows, casting a magical ambiance that made the air feel heavy with silence and wisdom.
"You will find much here," Eve said, gesturing towards several shelves filled with books on history, herbology, and other ancient sciences. "Knowledge of the lands of Middle-earth is hidden within these pages, waiting to be discovered."
Thalion looked around in awe, then opened a book titled Flora and Fauna of Middle-earth, tracing the pages that depicted rare plants and their properties.
After a while, Thalion took out the bottle of deep red wine from his bag and raised a small glass, offering it to Eve.
"This is for you. I know elves appreciate wine made from grapes. May it be a pleasant companion for your studies," Thalion said with a friendly smile.
Eve accepted the glass with a nod of thanks, took a small sip, then said, "You know many things, Thalion. I have never tasted wine like this before. It is very smooth and captivating."
They sat opposite each other, reading and occasionally discussing the contents of the books they held. Their conversation flowed naturally, touching on the history of battles in Middle-earth, the wonders of hidden nature, and the medicinal concoctions from ancient forests.
"Rohan is indeed facing difficult times," Eve said at one point, looking at Thalion with empathy. "You have fought with extraordinary courage."
Thalion nodded. "I must learn more so that I can better protect my homeland. The knowledge here is key."
The atmosphere in the library felt peaceful and full of scholarly spirit, as two souls from different worlds exchanged insights, hoping that one day they could bring great change to Middle-earth.
Days passed peacefully in Rivendell. Thalion and Eve often spent time in the magnificent library, surrounded by thousands of books and parchment scrolls that whispered tales and secrets of the world.
With the aid of his golden finger ability—a gift to perfectly absorb and recall information—Thalion read through almost the entire collection of books there. It was as if every word and image was firmly imprinted in his memory.
Eve occasionally observed from a distance, a smile of admiration on her face.
"You are truly different from us, Thalion," she said one afternoon as they sat in a corner of the library, amidst stacks of books on the history of Middle-earth. "I have never seen someone read with such speed and thoroughness."
Thalion offered a small smile. "I must make the most of this time. The knowledge I gain here will be invaluable in protecting Rohan."
Several times Eve brought wine and light snacks, while they had light discussions about the contents of the books they read.
"What do you think of this concoction?" Eve asked, handing over a manuscript on herbology.
Thalion studied the page carefully, "This could be very useful, especially for strengthening stamina and healing. I will try to develop some ideas from here."
The week passed in tranquility and hard work. In his heart, Thalion felt his knowledge expanding far more rapidly than he had ever imagined.
And in every quiet night, as Rivendell slept, he continued to review what he had learned, preparing himself for the challenges to come.
Thalion sat on a wooden bench near a window of the Rivendell library, looking out at the green valley and the sparkling waterfalls in the distance. After spending some time reading books on the history and nature of Middle-earth, his curiosity overcame his desire to continue studying.
In a soft voice, he asked Eve, who was sitting not far away, reading an ancient manuscript.
"I have heard many tales about Lady Galadriel. From the many praises and legends, it is said she is so captivating and graceful—as if the light of the world were gathered within her. But I am curious, is her beauty and grace truly as it is told?" he asked with an inquisitive tone.
Eve closed her book slowly, then looked at Thalion with eyes that gleamed meaningfully. She seemed to smile slightly, as if recalling something very memorable.
"The beauty of Lady Galadriel, Thalion, is not merely a matter of facial features or physical grace," Eve replied in a soft yet confident voice. "She is a fusion of inner and outer beauty, radiating from the depths of her soul. When you meet her, you will feel as if enveloped by a warmth and serenity that is almost indescribable."
Thalion furrowed his brow, trying to imagine it. "So, it is more than just appearance? More about an aura and a soul that shines forth?"
"Yes, precisely," Eve replied. "You may encounter many beautiful beings in this world, but few are able to emanate such great inner power, making anyone near them feel both peaceful and in awe. Lady Galadriel possesses such charisma, which makes her more than just beautiful."
Thalion bowed his head for a moment, then raised his face and said, "Then I must see her myself to truly understand. Your words make me curious and eager to experience that wonder firsthand."
Eve smiled even more warmly and nodded. "That is what I always tell anyone who asks about her. No words are sufficient to paint her charm. You must stand before her, feel her energy and wisdom directly, to truly comprehend."
Thalion looked into the distance, imagining the majestic and mysterious figure of Lady Galadriel. "I hope that time comes soon," he said softly.
Eve raised the small glass of wine that Thalion had given her, then smiled.
"Believe me, Thalion, that meeting will change your view of beauty, strength, and also the true meaning of leadership and wisdom."
Behind the mesmerizing tranquility of Rivendell, Thalion sat alone on a wooden terrace overlooking the peaceful green valley. The afternoon sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting gentle dancing shadows on his face.
In his heart, he smiled faintly, imagining the figures of the great women he had heard about in the tales and songs of the elves. Lady Galadriel, the Elf of Light, said to be of unparalleled beauty and wiser than the ages of the world. And also Arwen, Elrond's beautiful and enchanting daughter.
"Ah, I hope I can meet them," Thalion thought silently.
Then his thoughts drifted to the image of Arwen on the screen of his modern world—the actress Liv Tyler who portrayed her gracefully and captivatingly in the tales of the Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings. But Thalion knew, the beauty he saw in the films was only a faint shadow of Arwen's true loveliness.
"The real Arwen must be far more enchanting, more graceful, and full of an aura that is difficult to express in words. Liv Tyler was extraordinary, but of course Arwen—as a true elven being—possesses a light that no human can imitate," he murmured with deep admiration.
Thalion took a deep breath, feeling a tremor of hope and spirit in his chest.
"May that day arrive quickly. I want to learn from them, not only about beauty, but also about the wisdom and strength that flows in their blood."
After weeks of immersing himself in the ocean of books in the Rivendell library, Thalion began to apply the herbology knowledge he had newly acquired. He felt compelled to create a more potent healing elixir, something that could save lives and accelerate the healing of wounds and injuries—a skill that was invaluable in this dangerous world.
In a small room filled with medicinal plants and vials containing colorful concoctions, Thalion was busy carefully mixing ingredients. The fragrant aroma of fresh leaves mingled with the steam of simmering potions filled the room.
Suddenly, the door opened slowly, and a female elf entered with graceful steps. Her jet-black hair shimmered like a starless night, and her eyes shone with curiosity.
Thalion turned, slightly surprised but immediately replying warmly, "I am Thalion. I am experimenting with a new healing elixir, based on the herbology knowledge from the library."
The elf approached and observed the potions on the table, "Fascinating. I have heard of healing potions in Rivendell, but not many dare to alter them."
Thalion nodded, "Yes, I want to increase its effectiveness, make it work faster without side effects. This world is too dangerous to leave the injured without hope of a swift recovery."
The elf smiled with admiration, "Your spirit reminds me of the sorcerers and alchemists of old. But are you certain the ingredients you use are not dangerous?"
Thalion replied confidently, "I am being careful, and I am testing each mixture gradually. I believe the combination of herbal knowledge and a little alchemy can create wonders."