[Elora]

OK, I had this idea which will horrify most purists and probably even a good number of reasonable revisionists, still I think it has some merit.

As it is the basis of my post for Ruiel's morning, I thought I should explain it and see what the general consensus is.

Rumour is taking root that Finduilas is not whom she says she is, all well and good. Ruiel though, is interested in toppling the rulers of Gondor and replacing them with Umbar's rule (with pretensions to the throne for herself in typical power grandeur delusions). It fits with her as she considers herself quite superior to most others.

Therefore, I got to wondering about the next natural progression of the rumours: Finduilas' "real" identity. I figured the most damage would be done if she came from a despised Numenorian family, and none could be more so for the Faithful that settled in Middle-Earth than the descendants of Ar-Pharazon the ruler that caused the sinking of Numenor.

Now, there is no mention of any survivor of his family, and so I am making a large revision to suggest that one did survive, flee with the refugees to Middle-earth. There, he was reviled by his fellow refugees, the shame of his family so intense given the circumstances of Numenor's last King. Therefore, Finduilas would be eager to conceal her identity now.

This has potential, in my opinion, for a number of reasons. Firstly, the stigma of that false "real identity" would be hard for Finduilas to escape from. Secondly, for the Umbarian contingent it would be simple to spread incriminating details on the Ar-Pharazon connections to Finduilas. Umbar is orientated towards Ar-Pharazon, and would be familiar with the descendants of his line in Middle-earth. Thirdly, there is a certain irony that would truly amuse and appeal to Ruiel. Fourthly, the shame would rock the people's trust in the Stewards.

Having said all that, it is a big limb to crawl out on as far as a alteration of the history of Numenor. So, I ask that you think about it and let me know if you believe it could work or is simply too much or a revision.

I'll be happy to edit Ruiel's morning account if it proves too risky a revision of established history.

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