The title question probably seems obvious, and doubtlessly some of you answered it in your head with things like, "a Tolkien book published posthumously in 1977" or "the early history of Tolkien's legendarium." Because we are a "Silmarillion" archive (and yes, the use of quotes and not italics is intentional!1), this question also becomes a matter of policy for us. In the early years of our archive, we called it our MFAQ—most frequently asked question—because we were asked it more often than any other: "Is this story 'Silmarillion' enough for your site?" or "What counts as the 'Silmarillion' anyway?"

This has reduced somewhat as the fandom has come to better understand what The Silmarillion actually is (a compiled, edited, posthumous book) versus the decades of work (and reams of drafts and notes) Tolkien put into a text he never managed to see to fruition. Most fans are very comfortable letting all that fall under "Silmarillion" material. Tolkien fandom has become more comfortable with fuzziness, whether in defining what counts as "canon" or in the boundaries that exist between the texts in the legendarium.

Once upon a time, there was a common misconception that "Silmarillion" meant First Age and earlier. Our annual Akallabêth in August challenge and the 2009 Akallabêth in August compilation was intended to push back against this misunderstanding and spotlight the creators making incredible Second Age fanworks, who often felt marginalized in their own fandom. But of course the "Silmarillion" includes a substantial amount of the Third Age as well. Our MFAQ defines this as "any Third Age that is not covered in detail in The Hobbit or Lord of the Rings," which leaves a lot of ground to be covered. Furthermore, fanworks that include materials from The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings certainly aren't verboten—they just need "a significant basis in or connection to The Silmarillion."

Our MFAQ includes a checklist that helps you determine what that means. (Spoiler alert: It is not a hard bar to clear for us.) If you have Third Age or other "borderline" fanworks that you've thought about posting with us, check it out! Chances are that we'd welcome your work. You can read the full FAQ on how we define "Silmarillion fanworks" here.

As with just about everything we do, we aim to include rather than exclude, to expand rather than limit. While we are a "Silmarillion" site, our purpose has never been to draw hard lines between "Silmarillion" and "everything else," and for us, a "maybe" is almost guaranteed to be a "go for it." If you ever have questions about whether a work is appropriate for our site, start with our MFAQ and then reach out to the mods if you need further guidance.


  1. First newsletter with footnotes! In Tolkien scholarship, the convention has become to refer to the published text as The Silmarillion and the body of work comprising the early legendarium as the "Silmarillion." Since we aim for inclusivity and expansiveness whenever we can, we opt for the "Silmarillion," as that sweeps in a whole range of posthumous works, appendix materials, etc. (although usage across the site is likely inconsistent on this point. The inclusivity stands.)

SWG News

Cultus Dispatches: Revelations from Marquette's Fanzine Dataset
In September 2026, Marquette University released a dataset about their Tolkien fanzine collection. Analysis of the data reveals what these fanzines contained and show how pre-internet Tolkien fandom responded to the publication of "The Silmarillion."

New Challenge: Unquote
Choose a prompt from our selection of misheard, miswritten, and misrepresented unquotes that are in no way part of the actual "Silmarillon."

Character of the Month: Eönwë
This month's biography focuses on Eönwë, who started with a variety of identities but settled into the role of Manwë's herald, exemplifying the values of strong leadership and justice.

Instadrabbling Sessions for October, November, and December
Instadrabbling continues on the first Saturday of each month on our Discord server.

New Fanworks

A Language Deeper than Words by gaydhros [Writing]

Colour now has returned to him. His cheeks and nose are pink with the early morning chill, his grey eyes are bright, and he is well enough to manage daily walks along the lakeshore with Fingon, a few dawn-quiet moments stolen together before the rest of camp wakes.

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Monuments by Fuin [Multimedia]

After re-embodiment, Fingon visits the monuments of the High Kings in Tirion and muses about his relationship to them, to himself, and to whoever is missing. 

With an illustration of Fingolfin's monument.

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Fingolfin‘s Last Stand Monument by Fuin [Artwork]

Fingolfin‘s Last Stand Monument on the Square of the High Kings in Tirion, digital art.

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Thangorodrim by Fuin [Artwork]

Night spreads from the peaks of Thangorodrim, digital art.

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Annatar by goldenatreides [Artwork]

Annatar looking down fondly at his ring.

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Light blots out the Sky by starshadeemily [Writing]

Eol witnesses the new lights

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soft mouth by duckwhatduck [Writing]

Fingon has a practiced method for breaking Maedhros out of a difficult mood.

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Leave a Light On (Talk Away the Dark) by AdmirableMonster [Writing]

At the Darkening, Sauron waits in Aulë's kitchens for his lover.

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A Blade of Wicked Sharpness by gaydhros [Writing]

The weapon was expertly wrought: perfectly balanced, wickedly sharp, glinting under the distant stars. Silvered light danced across the black galvorn like moonbeams upon the jewelled waters of Celon.

He turned and presented it to Aredhel with pride, setting it lightly in her waiting hand. “Is it to your tastes, my lady?”

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the unusual (but very well loved) teapot by bleucrow [Writing]

It certainly was a strange, but very well loved and often used, teapot.

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to have and to hold by laurefindele [Artwork]

In the aftermath of Eregion's fall, Sauron has some...interesting ways of coping with the death of Celebrimbor.

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All is Dark by gaydhros [Writing]

Arakáno went down, swarmed by a vicious throng of Orcs wielding crude, blood-hungry blades, and there was nothing Findekáno could do but watch.

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Come the Second Singing by StarSpray [Writing]

“Someday,” Elros said as they sat on a high promontory that overlooked the Sea to the west and the new-formed gulf to the south and east, “so far in the future that I suppose it might as well be forever away—”

“In which case it may as well be never,” Elrond said.

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here we go again by lonelyvisitor [Writing]

On the eve of his wedding, Gil-galad sends three last-minute invitations to his potential fathers.

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Last Scene of All, That Ends This Strange Eventful History by Nighthaunting [Writing]

In which one Fourth Age historian sets out to chart the complete history of the events and writing of the Lay of Leithian and ends up with an oral history of First Age politics, the Fall of Nargothrond, the Second Kinslaying, the Third Kinslaying, and one elf’s commentary on Second Age repertory theater.

OR “The Lay of Leithian: a Historiographical Approach” by Líwë Ríniel of the University of Tirion

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made for service and no more by hobbitwrangler [Writing]

As Tar-Atanamir grows old, he is plagued by constant cold, and his advisors recommend sharing a bed with a virgin to keep him warm. Her name is Orawen.

Written for Tolkien Horror Week: 'made and unmade' + Númenor.

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Come Dawn by gaydhros [Writing]

Silver lamps hang from the great towers. Twinkling lights adorn the trees. All has been made beautiful; so alike to Tirion of old, the beauty of the West remade in this haven he caused to be built. All is as it should be.

Then the light comes early.

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LTC Microfics by Eleniel [Series]

A collection of microfics that I’m writing for the LTC community server. The characters and pairings will not necessarily be the same across the board.

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Marry Me by Susana_R [Writing]

Fingon has avoided his best friend and lover ever since Maedhros was Reborn a decade ago. As Fingon can’t ever imagine forgiving Maedhros for the Kinslayings, avoiding him seems like the kindest course of action. 

Oddly enough, Earendil the Mariner and his wife Elwing have forgiven Maedhros. Earendil has even invited Maedhros to join his crew in advance of an expected Void monster incursion. Since Fingon refuses to miss out on the fun of monster fighting, he decides he'll just have to ignore Maedhros during the voyage.

Fingon did not expect for his heart to nearly stop when Maedhros recklessly volunteered himself as a monster distraction.  In the wake of this development, Fingon realizes that he has forgiven Maedhros enough to still be in love with him.

It follows logically that Fingon should ask Maedhros to marry him. As Fingon has never once in his life hesitated after he’s decided what ought to be done, he proposes immediately.  

Unfortunately for Fingon, Maedhros firmly believes that Fingon is better off without him. 

Fortunately for Fingon, he's always been able to out-stubborn Maedhros. 

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Many Waters Cannot Quench Love by Zdenka [Writing]

In the breaking of Beleriand, the love between Elf and mortal does not fade.

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yet if you should forget me for a while by Zdenka [Writing]

Nellas finds Nienor at last, but Nienor doesn't remember her.

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Working Conditions by Moringottocake [Writing]

Maeglin has just been captured and Melkor is close to capturing Gondolin. But things are not all going well for the Dark Lord. His throne is uncomfortable, sitting around plotting everone's demise has proven to be deeply unfulfilling, and something has to be done about it. Melkor decides to talk to the manager.  

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Our Four Shadows, When They Mingle by AdmirableMonster [Writing]

Maedhros goes to a party with Fingon.  Fingon tries to get him to loosen up, but it takes until they accidentally walk in on Finrod and Maglor for things to start happening...

Still, Maedhros ends up having a lovely time. (PWP)

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So, they began to sing by Novenoe [Writing]

What happened at the end of the world as we know 

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Non-con November Fics by Elios [Writing]

A collection of fics for some of the Non-con November prompts:

Day 1 - Groping (Celegorm going around being a horny ass)

Day 3 - "Call me Master" (Eönwë gets captured by Melkor and the Vala wants to make him his servant. By force, if necessary)

Day 6 - Chains (Tulkas has some leftover adrenaline to take care of after chaining up Melkor)

(More days to follow - will update every weekend)

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Lullaby for the Dead by Ravien_Filque [Writing]

A mortal traveller begs his strange companion to hide from the storm. He won’t. The Wild Hunt is riding.

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Recovery Cake by Himring [Writing]

During the time of the Darkening of Valinor, Aule and Mahtan do a bit of baking.

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Ghost Story by StarSpray [Writing]

If he stopped moving for too long, the ghosts caught up.

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Queen of Spring by Deborah Judge [Writing]

Galadriel wanted to be a queen because queens bake Lembas, like her aunt Queen Fingolfin and her grandmother Queen Finwë.

 

Genderswap with f!Finwë and f!Fingolfin and Finarfin.

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The Day Has Come At Last by StarSpray [Writing]

Thangorodrim is broken

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invisible line by annarobots [Writing]

They do not speak, but when Anairë catches sight of Eärwen by the water, feels her blue eyes upon her, she tugs on the invisible line that pulls taut between them. 

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Messenger by Miega [Writing]

A messenger from a small village stumbles across a group of orcs.

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Utumno House Band at the Cave, Almaren by elennalore [Writing]

An archived review on the first concert of the Utumno House Band in Almaren. A part of music history now revealed!

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Rest at last by Flora-lass [Writing]

Firiel and Aranarth lay Arvedui's ghost to rest.

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Stuck! by annarobots [Writing]

Indis tries to make peace and finds herself in a compromising position. Fëanáro gets ideas.

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Our Bodies Are Our Gardens by annarobots [Writing]

The princes of the Noldor learn about an important loophole, and swear a foolish Oath. Parties, after-parties, improbable help from parents, many first times, and declarations of love. Also, mouth stuff.

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The Mole and the Serpent by elennalore [Writing]

Lady Nienna asks Maeglin to show places to a new arrival – or Maeglin and Sauron meet again in very different circumstances.

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Updated Fanworks

Auld Acquaintance - Platonic Best Friends Version by Susana_R [Writing]

Fingon clapped the stranger on the shoulder as he cheerfully informed Maedhros, "Fealasso here is the captain of your bodyguards. They will keep you safe during the community service you’ve volunteered to do in Alqualonde and Tol Eressea.” 

Maedhros closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose as he struggled for patience. 

Or, Fingon outmaneuvers Maedhros. It’s for his own good, of course. 

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Auld Acquaintance - Romantic Partners Version by Susana_R [Writing]

Fingon clapped the stranger on the shoulder as he cheerfully informed Maedhros, "Fealasso here is the captain of your bodyguards. They will keep you safe during the community service you’ve volunteered to do in Alqualonde and Tol Eressea.” 

Maedhros closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose as he struggled for patience. 

Or, Fingon outmaneuvers Maedhros. It’s for his own good, of course. 

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Elmo's World by annarobots [Writing]

New to the high court at Menegroth, Artanis is keen to build alliances.  She came to Middle-earth in search of virgin lands in which she could rule a realm at her own will, after all.  She soon discovers that the Sindar practice an entirely different form of court politics than that to which she was accustomed back home.  Her father would never approve!  But—well—he’s not here to tell her what to do, now, is he? 

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Nothing Here Has Been Allowed To Fall by Ravien_Filque [Writing]

There is someone watching Maglor wandering the shore.

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Recipes from Middle-earth by Harp_of_Gold [Writing]

A collection of recipes that might be found in Middle-earth, from many places, times, and peoples.

Originally posted for Tolkien Food Week.

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The Final Kinslaying by Niphredinell [Writing]

On the slopes of Orodruin, Elrond Peredhel Dooms himself.


 

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Hot Babysitter by annarobots [Writing]

When new parents Elenwë and Turukáno get overwhelmed and ask for help, Irissë is sent to stay with them for a while.  Turukáno soon realizes that his sister needs more minding than the baby.  

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Convergent Evolution by Kingsdaughter613 [Writing]

Convergent evolution: in which two creatures, completely independently, evolve the same characteristics.

Otherwise known as the time Celegorm got ahold of some kola nuts, and decided to try brewing a stimulant tea for their soldiers by combining it with the leaves of the coca tree they’d conveniently brought from Valinor, and accidentally invented one of the most famous drinks in the world several Ages early.

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Eisenknall, or Iron Bang by Moringottocake [Writing]

Germany, in our times. We are in Silmaringen, a typical medium-sized town in south-western Germany. There are some last remnants of tobacco farming in the nearby Rhine valley, and when you take the country roads into the foothills of the Black Forest, you can find several decent wineries every few kilometers on the wayside. The lives of the village folk and townspeople alike mostly revolves around who knows whom, and what’s for dinner tonight. 

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Silmarillion Non-Con November 2026 by AngbandThrallNo.1035 [Writing]

This is my collection of ficlets for the various prompts of Non-Con November 2026, I'll update the tags as I upload my fics, each prompt will be a new chapter. This writing event specifically focuses on the absence of consent, so keep that in mind!

Day 1: Groping (Maeglin/Dark!Glorfindel)

Day 2: Marital Rape (Aredhel/Eol)

Day 3: "Call Me Master" (Morgoth/Sauron)

Day 4: Roofies (Sauron/Celebrimbor)

Day 5: Ignored Safeword (Maedhros/Fingon)

Day 6: Chains (Melkor/Mandos)

Day 7: Protective (Sauron/Ar-Pharazon)

Day 8: Knifeplay (Sauron/Thrall)

Day 9: Bottom Aggressor/Top Victim (Sauron/Maedhros)

Day 10: "Be Honest" (Celegorm/Finrod)

Day 11: Targeted (Maeglin/Dark!Ecthelion)

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The Fall of Arnor; Book One "Out of the Bree-land" by Diane Finnis-Robb [Writing]

The first of six books covering the fall of the kingdom of Arnor

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With These Rings by annarobots [Writing]

A Lady of the Noldor and a Dark Elf join in body on the forest floor.  When he fails to satisfy her bottomless need, she makes use of his fine, strong hands, and their many pretty rings.

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Needst Thou a Hand with That? by annarobots [Writing]

Findekáno survives a terrible fall with grievous injuries. Confined for his recovery, plaster casts on both arms, he’s making everyone in the palace miserable. Fearful for the health of his fëa (and sick of his attitude), Anairë conceives a plan to ease his suffering. 

She does not expect to be overcome by her own desires.

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Disco Demolition by kimikocha [Writing]

“We’ve worked together,” says the stranger with fire in his hair. “We’re investigators.”

Everything he says is technically true. 

Inspired by Disco Elysium and written in the game's style, but not a crossover. Familiarity with the game isn't necessary for this fic.

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In Those Days by Dagstjarna [Writing]

Young Nerdanel and Fëanor’s friendship blossoms. 

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The Day Transcending Night by StarSpray [Writing]

The Rings have been forged. The armies of Mordor are marching into Eriador. Eregion burns. 

Far away from it all, by the shores of the Sea, Celegorm remembers his name.

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A blood red dawn above the city of white by Eleniel [Writing]

Idril wakes from a nightmare, but is it just a dream? Or a premonition of things to come?

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restraint by sariane [Writing]

“I would rather die than bind my soul,” Celebrimbor had said. Annatar sees, and he wants, and he tells himself: this is for Celebrimbor’s sake. And so, he endures.

After saving Celebrimbor from a deadly aphrodisiac, Annatar finds desire can be both a blessing and a curse.

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Instadrabbling, 2026-Present by SWG Moderators [Series]

We get together from time to time on the SWG Discord and produce spontaneous fanworks based on randomly chosen prompts. This collection includes drabbles, ficlets, and other flash fanworks produced as part of our instadrabbling sessions beginning in 2026.

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The Court of Ardor by AliceNWonder000137 [Writing]

After his release from the Halls of Mandos, Melkor seduces many of the Noldor with honeyed words and accusations against the Valar.  The Two Trees are ruined and the Sun and Moon arise.  One of these elves, Ardana the Astrologer, leads her people to return the skies to their original form, nothing but stars.  But she must destroy the Sun and Moon to accomplish that from her holds in the south of Middle Earth.

This is a non-canon story that is inspired by an MERP RPG series that was a gift from my aunt.  Most of the characters and settings were from the series and some quotes and songs are taken from Tolkien's writing.  It also ties in with the Wars in Beleriand and two my other two stories, The Dark Mage of Rhudaur and The Thieves of Tharbad.  The story is designed to span three ages.

Ardana

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Eä's Redemption by AaronAzrael [Writing]

This is my new poetical attempt to add my own interpretation to Tolkien's Cosmology as to Eru's Creation and the Valar's minds and behind-the-scene providence reasons and mechanisms.. I often review Eä as part of our own world, just in another dimension, this is why I have always seriously thought on the matter who the Ainur are, who Eru is, how he matches our own religious pantheon, and this has been conducted after serious research of many esoteric teachings of our own planet's heritage.

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Atandil by Eilinel's Ghost [Writing]

If you ever wanted a longer than necessary slow burn of Finrod and Bëor trailblazing the elf-mortal love tragedy, I've got you covered.

(Originally posted as a series, but combined now into a chaptered fic here.)

 

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Drabbles: The Silmarillion, part 2 by Zdenka [Writing]

Tolkien drabbles set in the First and Second Ages of Middle-earth. (Exactly 100 words as counted by MS Word.) Please see table of contents for individual summaries and warnings.

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Beyond the Silmarillion Fanworks

The High Pass to Gondor by octopus_fool [Writing]

Eorl heard it before he saw it: the sliding of stones as they crossed the high pass into Gondor. 

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Aftermath of a Riot by Susana_R [Writing]

It's never fun to wake up with a concussion. Fortunately for Faramir, he has Elrond, Aragorn, and the rest of Aragorn's family to help him make the best of a difficult day. 

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Faint Now and Far by Arveldis [Writing]

Frodo dreams, but it brings no peace.

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For a Better World by Ellynn [Writing]

Thirteen years before the War of the Ring, an orcling — more intelligent and more curious than most — is born in Mordor. His curiosity will lead him to both incredible discoveries and perilous situations, all of which will shape him into a leader unlike any Mordor has ever known. But to become that leader, he must defeat all his rivals, especially the most abhorrent of them all — his enemy since earliest childhood.

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Around the World and Web

Ainur Week 2026
A Tolkien fandom week dedicated to the Ainur!

Nolofinwëan Week 2026
Nolofinwëan Week is Tumblr fandom event celebrating the House of Fingolfin, running from November 9th - 16th

Tolkien Siblings Week 2026
A fandom event focused on sibling relationships in the Tolkien legendarium, running November 23rd to 29th, 2026!

Glorthelion Week 2026
A week dedicated to Glorfindel x Ecthelion relationship