`
The unlikely union of a wraith and a ranger forms the core of the Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor storyline. But the question lingers: Why Did Celebrimbor Choose Talion? Their bond wasn’t mere coincidence; it was a calculated decision driven by necessity, opportunity, and the unique qualities each possessed. Understanding the motives behind this fateful merging is key to grasping the events that unfold in Mordor.
A Desperate Pact Born of Opportunity
Celebrimbor, stripped of his physical form and seeking vengeance against Sauron, found himself tethered to the mortal realm. His power was immense, but he lacked the means to enact his plans independently. He needed a physical vessel, a host, and Talion, a Gondorian ranger stationed at the Black Gate, presented the perfect opportunity. Talion was, unfortunately, at the wrong place and time when Sauron’s forces attacked, resulting in his death.
Talion’s proximity to Celebrimbor during his execution ritual allowed the wraith to bind himself to the ranger’s soul, effectively preventing Talion from passing on to the afterlife. This wasn’t a choice made lightly, but rather a pragmatic decision born of desperation. Consider the other options Celebrimbor may have had:
- Seeking out another human, risking capture or manipulation by Sauron’s forces.
- Attempting to manifest fully in the physical realm without a host, a feat likely beyond his weakened abilities.
- Remaining a powerless wraith, unable to pursue his goal of vengeance.
Moreover, Talion’s skills as a ranger were a significant asset. He was a skilled warrior, familiar with the terrain of Mordor, and possessed the knowledge necessary to navigate the dangers of the region. Celebrimbor’s power combined with Talion’s earthly skills created a formidable force, greater than either could have achieved alone.
Talion’s Unwavering Resolve
Beyond mere convenience, Talion possessed qualities that resonated with Celebrimbor’s own unwavering dedication. Talion’s commitment to his duty as a ranger, his loyalty to his family, and his inherent sense of justice mirrored Celebrimbor’s own values. While Celebrimbor was driven by vengeance, Talion provided a moral compass, grounding the wraith’s actions and preventing him from succumbing entirely to the allure of power. They weren’t just allies, but they had common values too. A short comparison is below:
- Celebrimbor: Driven by Vengeance.
- Talion: Driven by Justice.
| Characteristic | Celebrimbor | Talion |
|---|---|---|
| Motivation | Revenge | Justice, Protection |
This shared sense of purpose, albeit born from different motivations, allowed them to form a bond that went beyond mere necessity. Talion’s presence kept Celebrimbor connected to the human realm, reminding him of the stakes involved and preventing him from becoming another power-hungry wraith. In the end, Celebrimbor didn’t only choose Talion; Talion also, in a way, choose to fight along Celebrimbor.
Want to delve deeper into the lore and learn more about the intricacies of Celebrimbor and Talion’s relationship? Explore the in-game dialogues and cutscenes from Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor for further insights!