Maedhros, being in anguish without hope, begged Fingon to shoot him. Fingon, seeing no better hope, strung his bow and cried to Manwe "O King to whom all birds are dear, speed now this feathered shaft, and recall some pity for the Noldor in their need!".
His prayer was answered swiftly, for Manwe had commanded a watch upon Morgoth as he held still some pity for the Elves in exile. Even as Fingon bent his bow, Thorondor, King of Eagles, flew down from the high airs, and staying Fingon's hand, bore him to the precipice where his friend hung...