A/N: An alternative view of why Elwing cast herself from the tower with the Silmaril.  For those who found yesterday's offering "too uncanonical".

Trapped

(exactly 100 words)

Her pursuers at her heels, Elwing tripped on the top step, sprawling on the stone floor of the uppermost chamber.  She scrambled to her feet and flung herself towards the broad window that overlooked the sea far below.  Trapped.  They had her children.  Maybe they'd preserve them if they knew the jewel was out of their reach for good.

My father died to keep it from them.  I'm supposed to protect it.  But how?  The sound of the waves below sent inspiration and, her eyes on Maedhros' face, she reached for the clasp of the Nauglamir.

It would not open.