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Dol Guldur  by Arnakhor 2 Review(s)
Camp.6311Reviewed Chapter: 2 on 11/27/2018
I thoroughly enjoyed how you brought to life the precursors to Eorl the Young and the Rohirrim. Very well written and researched, it truly resonated as Tolkien's Middle Earth.
I was left wondering about the motive behind Gandalf's visit to the Eotheod - simply to bring a gift? evaluate their strength? recruit a companion? Perhaps it will be more clear as i read on.

Author Reply: Though mindful of all inhabitants of Middle Earth, Gandalf to me is the one of the istari who is most the advocate for the race of Men, seeing down the road of time of their destiny. So it is within character for him to nurture the seeds of this garden. The men of the north, to be the Rohirrim of the future, need guidance. He helps in Breor’s early chieftain role, brings seeds and agricultural methods to his people. Now with Hagar he knows the strength of Breor’s line will be enhanced by a more worldly, experienced Hagar. This can only come through exposure to the wider world, taking part in a quest with other men, encountering elves, and deadly evil. Hagar will be part of the team as will his ancient sword. You will meet others of this time of the Third Age. In the broadest brush strokes the story is about a quest. It is also about creating the sense of the times of this part of the Third Age, seeing the beginning threads that lead up to LOTR.

Raksha The DemonReviewed Chapter: 2 on 11/11/2018
Nice descriptions here. I can't help but enjoy Hagar; he reminds me of a half-grown very large puppy, maybe a Great Dane or Mastiff pup. Maybe he'll soon grow wiser.

Author Reply: You've captured him perfectly, a half-grown large puppy. One of Gandalf's primary roles is to be a minder of the race of Men and look to the future. Here he sees Breor's son, isolated and yet unmolded in their lands at the sources of the Anduin. Centuries later they will migrate south to become the Rohirrim. But for now he sees that Hagar really needs some seasoning about the larger world around him, that will ultimately make him a better leader when his time comes. He will have some interesting encounters as the story progresses. Thanks for reading and your comments. Would welcome any more thoughts you have as you continue to read. This is the first review I've received for this chapter.

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