Race: Half-Elf
Sex: Male
Faction: Rivendell
Rating: 8.1
Alignment: Lawful Good
Arena Status: Active (S1)
Middle-Earth is a realm brimming with heroes, villains, and those who walk the line in between. But when the winds of time gently rustle the leaves of the great trees, one character stands stalwart, a bastion of wisdom and leadership: Elrond, Lord of Rivendell.
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| Elrond, Lord of the Rings |
His legacy is woven deeply into the fabric of Tolkien’s universe, and his influence is felt, even if indirectly, in every whispered secret of the forest or sung verse by the fireside.
[Spoiler Alert]: This section will delve into key events and character insights from J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpieces.
Born at the end of the First Age, Elrond's lineage combines the bloodlines of Elves, Men, and even the divine Maiar, making him a singular figure in Middle-Earth's expansive history. Such a lineage grants him not only longevity but also a unique perspective on the intertwined fates of Elves and Men. "I have seen three ages in the West of the world, and many defeats, and many fruitless victories," he remarks in The Fellowship of the Ring, a testament to his enduring spirit and vast experience.
Elrond's introduction in The Hobbit portrays him as a wise and welcoming host to Bilbo Baggins and the band of Dwarves, assisting them on their quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain. But it's in The Lord of the Rings trilogy where Elrond's role deepens, offering profound counsel and sanctuary. Rivendell, the Last Homely House East of the Sea, becomes a haven for weary travelers and the backdrop for one of Middle-Earth's most significant gatherings: the Council of Elrond. Here, the fate of the One Ring is debated, and the formation of the Fellowship, a pivotal moment in the struggle against Sauron, takes place. "The Ring cannot be destroyed, Gimli, son of Glóin, by any craft that we here possess," he declares, emphasizing the weight of Frodo's impending journey to Mount Doom.
Beyond these direct interactions, Elrond's influence ripples throughout the narrative. He provided sanctuary to Aragorn, the heir of Isildur, guiding him towards his destiny as King of Gondor. Furthermore, his daughter, Arwen Undómiel, becomes a central figure in Aragorn's life, representing the enduring love between Elves and Men, reminiscent of Elrond's own parentage.
Still, Elrond's character embodies more than just wisdom and leadership. His existence is tinged with sorrow, emblematic of the Elves' melancholic perspective in Middle-Earth. As the Third Age draws to a close, so does the dominion of the Elves. Elrond faces the heart-wrenching choice of parting from his beloved daughter, who chooses a mortal life with Aragorn. In his words, "Do I not also have your love?" to Arwen, there lies the heavy heart of a father, showcasing that despite his vast wisdom, he is not immune to the emotional tribulations of love and loss.
Drawing upon direct quotes, as Tolkien writes in The Fellowship of the Ring, "The world is changed. I feel it in the water. I feel it in the earth. I smell it in the air." This change is something Elrond grapples with - the inevitable waning of the Elves and the ascendance of Men. As the bearers of Middle-Earth's rich history, the fading of the Elves and characters like Elrond signifies the end of an era.
Elrond is more than just an Elven lord; he's a tapestry of history, wisdom, love, and sorrow. Through the ages, he's been a guardian of knowledge, a beacon in dark times, and a bridge between the past and the present. As readers and admirers of Tolkien's world, Elrond's legacy prompts us to treasure the past, act wisely in the present, and foster hope for the future.
Elrond's Raw Power
Delving into the vast tapestry of Tolkien’s Middle-Earth, one encounters beings of immense strength, magical prowess, and innate power. Elrond, Lord of Rivendell, emerges as an exemplar of both the ancient world's wisdom and its inherent power. To properly grasp his magnitude, one must meander through the pages of time, extracting anecdotes and tales of his feats.
Diving straight into the essence of Elrond's raw power, one can't ignore his Elven lineage. Born of both Elf and Man lineage, Elrond chose the path of the Elves. His very genetics grant him enhanced physical capabilities, longevity, and an intrinsic bond with the magical essence of the world. In the words of Tolkien from The Fellowship of the Ring, Rivendell is a place "where Elves yet dwell in peace." Under Elrond's leadership, Rivendell becomes not just a refuge, but a beacon of Elvish magic and might in Middle-Earth.
Elrond’s raw power is not simply about brute force. His magic is subtler, more intertwined with the land, lore, and the elements. He possesses the innate Elven ability to heal, as seen when he tends to Frodo's Morgul-wound. Moreover, his possession and adept use of one of the three Elven rings, Vilya, the Ring of Air, further amplifies his magical capabilities. This ring, while its powers remain largely in the backdrop, plays a role in preserving Rivendell and aiding its inhabitants.
However, when juxtaposed with entities spanning all fantasy universes - from dragons to demi-gods, wizards to warlocks - where does Elrond stand in raw power? He is not a frontline warrior like Aragorn, nor does he brandish overt sorcery like Gandalf. But his raw power is undeniable, steeped in the ancient magic of the Elves.
The initial rating of 8, while generous, is upheld. Given that a 10 might be reserved for omnipotent beings that can reshape realms or realities (think omnipotent beings like some interpretations of deities), Elrond's power, while vast in Middle-Earth's context, might pale in a broader fantasy spectrum. His strengths lie in subtler domains of magic, wisdom, and leadership, which, although immensely powerful in their own right, might not equate to the overwhelming might of some other fantasy giants.
In a world rife with enchantment and wonder, Elrond stands tall, not because of overwhelming force, but due to an intrinsic, ancient power that courses through his veins, echoing the mystique of a world long past.
Elrond's Tactical Ability
To dissect the tactical prowess of Elrond is akin to watching a master chess player, each move purposeful and profound. Drawing upon the annals of Tolkien's universe, we can embark on a fascinating journey through Elrond's strategic mind.
Elrond's realm, Rivendell, wasn't simply a sanctuary for weary souls. Underneath the glistening streams and poetic serenity, it was a vital fulcrum for many strategic decisions made in Middle-Earth. His leadership in the War of the Last Alliance against Sauron centuries ago demonstrates his strategic acumen. This alliance of Men and Elves was crucial in pushing back the tide of darkness, even if momentarily.
Moving towards more contemporary events, within the heartbeats of The Fellowship of the Ring, Elrond convenes the Council of Elrond. This crucial gathering showcases his innate ability to bring together disparate factions, inspiring and leading them to a unified goal. Tolkien writes, "The ring was made in the fires of Mount Doom; only there can it be unmade. It must be taken deep into Mordor and cast back into the fiery chasm from whence it came." Under Elrond's guidance, the formation of the Fellowship of the Ring became the linchpin in the tactical battle against Sauron.
Now, juxtaposing Elrond's tactical ability against the full scope of fantasy universes, one must weigh his strategies against grand military tacticians, master manipulators, and cunning strategists. While his decisions are deeply influential in the framework of Middle-Earth, in the grander scheme, he may be on par but not surpassing the greatest tacticians of all fantasy realms.
Reflecting upon the previously given rating of 8, it does seem accurate. Elrond's strategies have been vital in Middle-Earth's pivotal moments, but comparing him to a plethora of fantasy tacticians from diverse universes may not place him at the absolute pinnacle. Thus, the rating remains an 8, honoring Elrond's profound strategic insight in the world of Middle-Earth, while acknowledging the vast tactical geniuses that exist in the broader spectrum of fantasy.
Elrond's Influence
The very fabric of Elrond's existence is a tapestry woven with leadership and an intrinsic ability to inspire trust. He stands not only as the Lord of Rivendell, a haven in a tumultuous world, but also as a bridge between the races of Men, Elves, and even Dwarves. The Council of Elrond, where Tolkien pens, "Nine companions... You shall be the Fellowship of the Ring," is a testament to Elrond's unmatched convening power. It's a grand unifying gesture, bringing together representatives of Middle-Earth's races to unite against a common enemy.
Yet, the depths of Elrond's influence aren't confined to councils and strategic meetings. His lineage grants him a unique perspective, fostering trust across various races. This is a world where age-old grievances often impede unity, but Elrond, with his soothing wisdom and composed demeanor, transcends these barriers. His words in The Fellowship of the Ring - "This is the hour of the Shire-folk, when they arise from their quiet fields to shake the towers and counsels of the Great" - captures his ability to recognize and elevate the most unlikely of heroes.
However, when juxtaposed with fantasy magnates of influence from countless universes, does Elrond truly tower above them all? Perhaps he shares the pedestal with many. His influence is pervasive in Middle-Earth, but on a universal scale, it's befitting to rate him at an 8, in alignment with our prior assessment. Elrond's voice reverberates with authority in his world, but the cosmos of fantasy is vast, with myriad leaders whose words can reshape destinies.
Elrond's Timeline in Middle-Earth
Elrond's Resilience
In the sprawling, shifting sands of fantasy, few are like Elrond when it comes to resilience. His tale is a ballet of endurance and adaptability, choreographed amidst the vast epochs of Middle-Earth.
Elrond's life, as etched by Tolkien, is an odyssey of survival. Born during the War of the Elves and Sauron, he witnessed the ebbs and flows of power, the rise and fall of civilizations, and the relentless battle between light and shadow. At times, the universe seems to teeter on a blade's edge, pushing Elrond into the heart of tumult. Yet, his resilience is manifest not merely in his survival but in his ability to lead and inspire despite overwhelming despair.
Through the lyrical prose of The Lord of the Rings, Tolkien shares, "The world is changed, and some things that should not have been forgotten were lost." Elrond embodies this sentiment. From the Last Alliance of Elves and Men against Sauron to the War of the Ring, he remains a pillar of strength, even when faced with the potential departure from Middle-Earth of his kin and himself. The agony of choice—between immortal Elven shores and the love for his child, Arwen—further testifies to his inner mettle.
Comparing Elrond's resilience with pantheons of fantasy giants, it's a dance amidst titans. He demonstrates profound endurance, both mentally and physically. However, given the sheer scale of multifaceted characters across universes, each grappling with their unique trials, an 8.5 remains a fitting tribute to Elrond's resilience. His fortitude, when gauged against cosmic scales, stands tall but is matched by the titanic resilience of other characters from distant realms.
The tapestry of Elrond's life is intricate, but one thread remains constant—his unyielding spirit, shimmering, always, amidst the twilight of challenges.
Elrond's Versatility
Elrond stands as one of Middle-Earth's most versatile figures. His lineage alone, encompassing both the majesty of the elves and the drive of men, grants him a unique duality of perspectives. As the world around him shifted, he transformed—warrior, healer, leader, counselor, and loremaster. He is Middle-Earth's renaissance figure.
Tolkien's tales overflow with Elrond's versatility. His military prowess was evident in the Last Alliance, standing alongside Isildur and Gil-galad. Yet, when the Council of Elrond is called in "The Fellowship of the Ring", we witness a diplomat, a facilitator who brings together a myriad of races and minds, ensuring voices are heard. "The ring cannot remain here," Elrond proclaims, setting in motion events that would require more than strength: wisdom, strategy, and guidance.
Outside the battlefield and council chambers, Elrond's expertise as a healer emerges. He tends to Frodo's Morgul-blade wound and, as Aragorn reflects in "The Two Towers", Elrond's healing knowledge is unmatched, encapsulated in the phrase, "The hands of the king are the hands of a healer, and so shall the rightful king be known."
This vast range of abilities presents a conundrum. Across the tapestry of fantasy, characters brandish dazzling arrays of skills. However, Elrond's versatility isn't just a litany of skills but a profound adaptability to Middle-Earth's needs. It’s a fluid dance between roles as the ages wax and wane.
Yet, while his versatility is remarkable in Middle-Earth, fantasy universes are teeming with characters of staggering range. Considering this vast cosmos, maintaining Elrond's rating at 8 seems just. His adaptability is noteworthy, but the infinite realms of fantasy provide characters with versatility that can match, if not surpass, his own. Elrond is a multifaceted gem in the Tolkien tapestry, shining brightly but accompanied by other stars in the boundless skies of fantasy.
Elrond's Alignment
From the earliest days, as recorded in Tolkien’s works, Elrond’s story is enmeshed in duty, heritage, and a deep sense of responsibility. He is a custodian of Middle-Earth's history and wisdom. Rivendell, or Imladris, becomes a sanctuary for all seeking refuge, counsel, or knowledge—a bastion of order amidst the chaos brewing in Middle-Earth. Elrond's role in preserving traditions, histories, and lore exhibits his inherent alignment towards the lawful spectrum. This is further cemented during the Council of Elrond, where he gathers representatives across Middle-Earth, facilitating a structured discourse and laying out a strategic path to confront Sauron. The fact that he doesn't impose his will but facilitates discussion shows a respect for law, order, and collective decision-making.
On the moral axis, Elrond's actions radiate benevolence. From fostering the orphaned Estel (who would later be known as Aragorn) to healing Frodo after a near-fatal wound, his compassion and commitment to the greater good are evident. His opposition to Sauron and the forces of darkness, along with his sustained efforts in aiding and mentoring key figures in the fight against evil, place him firmly in the good category.
Thus, across the alignment chart of fantasy lore, Elrond of Rivendell is best described as Lawful Good. He stands as a beacon of hope, order, and righteousness, guiding Middle-Earth through its darkest hours with wisdom and compassion. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated character alignment matrix across all planes of existence.
Elrond Arena Art
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| Elrond visits Anomander Rake in Moon's Spawn |
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| Elrond faces Nefarian in Blackwing Lair |
Elrond's Trophy Case
PPET Rankings
| Season | Rank |
|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | #35 (of 107) |
Titles & Postseason Results
| Season | Result | All Time Occurence |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship Bid (#9 Seed) | 1st |
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship 2nd Round Appearance (#9 Seed) | 1st |
