#100 Beyond the Circles of the World

Elrond sat in the chair holding the frail, cold hand of his dying brother. As he looked into his twin's eyes, he could see his reflection even if he was immortal. Elrond knew this day would come, but he had no idea it would be so soon. Long ago, the two were given a choice to choose which race they both wanted to belong too. Elrond chose immortality while his brother Elros chose to be counted among men.

Now, at five hundred years, Elros was ready to surrender his spirit and pass on beyond the circles of the world. Elrond fought back the tears. He wanted to be strong for his baby brother but found he was failing. "Elrond, do not be sad for me," Elros said weakly, his breaths becoming slower and shallower. "I have lived a long and happy life. We will be reunited once more when the end of the world has come, and we all join in the fourth song."

Elrond swallowed the lump in his throat. He wanted to be strong and happy, but he didn't know how to let go. Elros pointed to his brother's heart. "I will always be with you, my brother. Right here. And when you look up at the stars, I will be there watching you." With one last breath, Elros closed his eyes and let his spirit fly. As Elrond saw his brother give up his fëa, he collapsed on his twin's chest and sobbed bitterly.