N-39 - Erulisse - On Slavery

[engarian.livejournal.com]

Almost done now, one more story to go after this to wrap up the month.


B2MeM Challenge: N-39 – Maglor in History 1 – The Fall of Rome
Format: Ficlet
Genre: Drama
Rating: G
Warnings: None
Characters: Maglor
Pairings: None
Word Count: 129

Summary: Surviving the sack of Rome in 410 AD by the Visigoths may not be easy for Maglor, but he’s still alive.





On Slavery



In my long life, I have often been a warrior, as frequently wielding a sword or bow as my harp or flute. Today, as I glance back over my shoulder towards the fabled seven hills and see the tell-tale bright colors of flame and the roiling darkness of smoke, I experience a sudden desire to live, not to haunt Mandos' Halls.

Rome has fallen, and I, just one more body in a long line of shackled prisoners, am once again a slave. Slavery can offer life and uncertain protection. It also carries the elusive possibility of advancement in ideal circumstances. I turn my head away from my previous life and set my jaw firmly, determined. I will prosper in the court of King Alaric. I will continue to live.

Comments

[silver-trails.livejournal.com]

So he has been a slave more than once.

[engarian.livejournal.com]

I'm sure that in such a long life in such a world as ours that he has indeed been a slave more than once.

- Erulisse (one L)

[just-jenni.livejournal.com]

I love Maglor's attitude - positive despite his situation. That is an intriguing take on slavery offering life and protection. :)

[engarian.livejournal.com]

I'm NOT a proponent of slavery in any aspect, but the right owner with the right attitude could be a saving grace in a poor situation. Thanks for reviewing.

- Erulisse (one L)

[mikononyte.livejournal.com]

Two thoughts struck me while thinking about this. The first one I totally ignored as it really was my own take on slavery and it just makes me angry. But the second one:

Alaric (king of all) really pushed civilisation toward the Medieval period, or so it is said. One thing for sure, if that is true, one could speculate that that push might have been accomplished by a certain very well educated Eldar in his service.

Yeah, I like that 2nd thought much better. LOL

[blslarner.livejournal.com]

Yes, down today, up again tomorrow! Excellent!

[engarian.livejournal.com]

I like that second thought myself. In any case, the key is survival. One cannot escape or change things if one is dead. Therefore Maglor will tolerate whatever he has to in order to survive another day. Not the best of situations for him, true.

- Erulisse (one L)

[engarian.livejournal.com]

Thanks, Larner. As I told Mikononyte, survival is the key. Maglor is a survivor.

- Erulisse (one L)