#tag.au

The Men talk about the Elves as time goes on, keeping history records from fading into obscurity and keeping personal gifts from an elf to their long-departed ancestor in good condition. Men remember the Elves.

And one day, it’s after The End, after Morgoth has broken through the gate of night and gotten shoved back in still bleeding ooze from Turambar’s sword, and the second singing starts.

The Men are returned to Middle-Earth, the Elves reawaken in Valinor.

Only, this time, there is no ban from the Valor against going across the sea.

The elves return to middle-earth, expecting to need an entire argument about why they should be allowed to settle into a few random forests, but instead the Kingdoms of Men are like “welcome back, friends.”

The scenes that can come from this range from funny to angsty like-

Elrond, about to ask for an inn to stay in while meeting all his daughter’s (and adoptive son’s) descendants: I can stay anywhere really

The Kings and Queens of Men, who grew up with stories about Elrond Peredhel: Don’t worry about that we kept your Valley clean while you were away.

Elrond: o.O

Also

Finrod, tearfully: i’m sorry I couldn’t keep your people safe.

The Beorians, who know Exactly how Nóm died: shut up and get hugged.

And

Caranthir: i don’t expect you to love me anymore-

Haleth: [immediately slaps him] dumbass [kisses him]

And of course-

Elrond, just talking to someone: oh yeah the trees do feel kinda different-