(Open)

[castintoflames]

Who: Maedhros & Open
Broadcast: Marsiva
Action: On the Marsiva.
When: Evening

(A voice, beginning softly and then rising in volume, can be heard aboard the Marsiva this eve. Technology brings it to others - the ship is large - not that the singer entirely notices. A bright tumble of fiery hair obscures the picture momentarily before a certain tall Elf steps back. Yet the singing continues and Maedhros's eyes are distant, lost in memory.

The notes reach pitches that are almost keening, but the melody always softens, always returns to a pleasant level. Until the end, that is. The keening returns, then, and the Elf shows his prowess with song - something he will deny until death and beyond - by singing notes that are quick and passionate like flames. His eyes reflect despair and grief before assuming a look of grim determination.

But every song must end and his cannot carry on. He absently brushes back his hair - which is loose from all braids - and finishes securing his prosthetic arm in place.)

Comments

[bythewaves]

We are brothers. Thank you for coming back to me.

[castintoflames]

I would choose to return to you. You believe that, don't you?

[bythewaves]

I... am learning how to, Nelyo. It is ... not easy.

[castintoflames]

(He frowns and rests their heads together.)

I'm tired, Kano.

[bythewaves]

[ He reaches up to hold him ]

I'm sorry Nelyo. I'm asking too much of you again.

[castintoflames]

It's not you. (He settles, voice low.) I feel like my fëa is fighting always.

[bythewaves]

Shall I sing for you again, Nelyo? Will it help you sleep?

[castintoflames]

You give and give... (He pulls back to touch his cheek.) What can I do for you?

[bythewaves]

I give as I was taught how to do, as you gave to me.

[ He reaches up to hold that hand there ]

Be here. That's all I need. Be happy.

[castintoflames]

What I gave has been returned and then some. (His thumb caresses Maglor's cheek.) If you are happy, I am too.

[bythewaves]

Then we will both be content, for we have all we need.

[castintoflames]

(He blinks and softens.) Am I enough?

[bythewaves]

Always, Nelyo. Always.

[castintoflames]

Thank you. (He is undeserving of this kindness, yet he needs it.)

[bythewaves]

You are my brother. [ Maglor tells him, wills him to believe it ]

For me, there is no greater happiness.

[castintoflames]

Then know that this is where I wish to be; you are not burdening me to live.

[bythewaves]

Thank you, Nelyo

[castintoflames]

Will you sing with me?

[bythewaves]

Of course! What do you want to sing, Nelyo?

[castintoflames]

Teach me a new song. I know you have composed many.

[bythewaves]

Mm, one of my own, or something I have learnt?

[castintoflames]

One of your own always!

[bythewaves]

Mm, let's see...

At the edge of darkness
Hope is whispering still,
Tender, unerring,
Gently stirring.

Memories unfurling in the mind.
Warm wind from a far, forgotten country,
Long left behind.
Wandering the empty road,
In twilight's silver shade,
Following the hidden paths
Lonely and afraid.

[castintoflames]

(Those lyrics earn a worried nuzzle.)

You?

[bythewaves]

Mmm. [ he nods ]

Most of my new ones are sad, Nelyo. I didn't...really write many happy ones. I didn't have the heart for it.