Reviews (26)

Kaiser · 19 June 2014 · Chapter 3: Of the Noldor and the Sindar

I love this chapter and both group's responses to each other! I do love the story of the Noldor, especially those of the Noldorin royal family. I myself have never found their names confusing; from about 13 years old, I could reel them off no problem. But I couldn't help but laugh and sympathise with the Sindar...how confused they were! Especially not having time to actually learn who is who before being thrust into the thick of it as they were.

picara · 27 March 2014 · Chapter 3: Of the Noldor and the Sindar

I was surprised to see this! But glad. The first part of the chapter was very atmospheric. It is rather funny to see elves spying so effectively on elves. And it served well to introduce the differences between the Noldor and the Green Elves. I really liked the conversation where Oropher, Celeborn etc learned about the Noldor. Their shock at Finwe's two wives, confusion over the term half-brother, Finwe's death in Valinor and all that was great. So was their reaction to the industrious nature of the Noldor. And the Noldor's reaction to them in the camp was great too. Was that a glimpse of Manadhien and her family? Like everyone else, I had to laugh at the banter about the names. Those names are impossible. Hope you continue this.

Morn · 24 March 2014 · Chapter 3: Of the Noldor and the Sindar

This reminds me of my own reading of the Silm. I'm not good with names at the best of times but trying to keep track of who is who, trying to remember than Fingolfin and Nolofinwe, Finarfin and Arafinwe are the same people, who is who's sons and beyond Maedhros and Maglor, I give up with Feanor's sons! Much preferring the simplicity of naming your kids after trees... at least Celeborn, Galathil, Oropher and Engwe all sound different! ;) It's interesting to see your OCs in a different light and to see a bit of the history of Oropher too. I think you said to me in an interrupted journeys review about showing a bit more depth to your characters like Golwon in this, and I really like that they clearly do all have a history. Strange to see all these ancient elves acting so young! Are you planning to keep on with this or just a one off update?

Fantasia · 24 March 2014 · Chapter 3: Of the Noldor and the Sindar

Well, I'm not the only one that was confused with so many names...You need to carry a notebook with all the names, family relationships, titles...gosh...When I first read The Silmarillion I had a perenne headache (do you say perenne in English?) And look, the healer, so young now, don't remember her name, but she is there!

daw the minstrel · 23 March 2014 · Chapter 3: Of the Noldor and the Sindar

Sweet Eru, how did you ever sort out all those family ties and names, Elliska? You are far braver than I. I like the contrast between the "natives" and returned elves.

panzer71 · 15 July 2011 · Chapter 2: Of the Rising of the Winged Sun over Beleriand

Thank you for your story,I can't wait for the next chapter.

panzer71 · 15 July 2011 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

Thank you for submitting this.I'm neither a Tolkien or literary expert and can offer no criticism of value. I can say though what a wonderful beginning. The battle scene was excellent and the excerpts that are used helped me follow the story well. This is my favorite period in ME history and I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed this chapter.

Aiwen · 28 May 2009 · Chapter 2: Of the Rising of the Winged Sun over Beleriand

Very interesting. I hope you will add to this story.

Jay Greenleaf Elf · 19 May 2007 · Chapter 2: Of the Rising of the Winged Sun over Beleriand

Welcome back, it's good to hear from you again. This is a rather interesting chapter. I love how you portrayed what the elves experienced the first time they saw the sun and other heavenly bodies, it makes one wonder what it might've been like for them. I'm so glad that you introduced Oropher's father into the story since he is hardly around in any fanfic and I'd love to read what he was like and how he was towards Oropher and even Thranduil, I don't know why but I wish I could find a story where Oropher is still alive when Legolas is around or one with Thranduil becoming king and what his grandparents might think or what role would they play in Greenwood/Mirkwood. But anyway I hope to hear from you soon and looking forward to your next update and the update of Interrupted Journeys.

Bodkin · 12 May 2007 · Chapter 2: Of the Rising of the Winged Sun over Beleriand

I love the First Age being made real - and these characters are just delightful in their youth and enthusiasm. It's great to see their different responses to the arrival of the sun - which must have been more than a little disconcerting to those who have grown to appreciable ages under the light of the stars - and it's most enjoyable to see them ... dodging into the council, delighted that Thingol was too busy to notice their lateness. I can sense some frustration in their elders! But Thingol is very brave to send this squad to be the meeters and greeters for the Noldor! Although I suspect they will do a terrific job ... (one, though, that might leave Oropher rather less impressed than Celeborn!)

ninqwestilmen · 9 May 2007 · Chapter 2: Of the Rising of the Winged Sun over Beleriand

Hello :) Been reading your stories for over a year now, about time I dropped in to say that you're doing a wonderful job. This story in particular is intriguing and wonderfully written. Oropher is such a wonderful character to read about :) and it will only get better when Thranduil shows up. Is this story going to uncover the mysterious saga between Oropher, Dieneryn and Amglaur? Hope you update soon!!

French Pony · 8 May 2007 · Chapter 2: Of the Rising of the Winged Sun over Beleriand

The sun really changed everything, didn't it? Not everyone is so sure this whole sun and moon deal is a good thing, and I like that. It makes sense that their eyes would take some time to adjust, but that the new, eye-poppingly colored world would inspire Elvish artists like nothing else. Especially Elvish artists who aren't distracted by dealing with the baggage of a Kinslaying and an arctic trek. I think it's interesting that, even at this early date, Eöl is already a dark, secretive, somewhat twisted person with no respect for women. The prospect of just throwing him in the clink was intriguing. Thingol may not regret allowing him to leave Doriath, but other people will. What Thingol may ultimately regret is what became of the Sons of Finwë, his friend. What he doesn't know yet. . .

Redheredh · 7 May 2007 · Chapter 2: Of the Rising of the Winged Sun over Beleriand

Yay! So glad to see this!! Dashed home from work right to the pc, I was so anxious to let you know! Didn't even stop for eats! That opening scene was so dryly amusing, and very helpful getting back into the story by reintroducing our main players. And they are such players! Plus, setting up for the next juicy scenes. I really liked getting both sides of the picture, so to speak, concerning the brightness of the sun. I am reminded of Plato's cave analogy every time I read an author's take on whether or not it is a good thing to look directly into the light or stay in the comfortable shade. Your comments about color and paint and Yavanna and spring fit in nicely. Myself, I like that sort of detail. But, anything that damages orcs and drives the enemy away, even for a short respite, was welcomed by most people, I am sure. Hmm, they do seem to be welcoming the Noldor with the same sort of suspicion, though... The other two scenes were great too! What a wonderful, insightful, clever interpretation of Eol and Thingol wrangling over Nan Elmoth! Just brilliant and very entertaining to boot! Eol's attitude was perhaps not that typical, but understandable, I would think, by those who detested the change in the Sindar's way of life. You explain very well how some would feel confined and tormented, ready to throw the blame on anyone. You used these conflicting personalities very nicely in this almost-staged argument. It was like a wrestling match. A real fight, but both knew the rules and when to play to the audience. I especially liked how Thingol's noble kin rallied around him! That as so cool just because they acted in unspoken concert. You did well showing Thingol in all his elven pride, but also exercising his leadership and judgement. I enjoyed his very obliging threat to lock Eol up in a dark cell, if he thought that he was imprisoned already. You used each character's personality to advantage in building other character's personality, as well. It is my personal opinion that a good 50% or more of politics is personality driven. The inserted quote were most helpful in understanding and appreciating this chapter. I will say it again: I love your interpretation of Eol and Thingol and how Eol was got his lease. The King wanted him out of the his way, but also for the dark-elf to learn who is the boss. The insult to Melian was just the motivation he needed to carry through and garner his council's complete approval. You have raised questions in my mind also about the relief of Brithombar and Eglarest! But, I liked your answer. ;) "...the pack that you run with..." Absolutely loved that! However... yes, I have to nitpick about something, don't I... the King is sending them all to Mithrim? Does he want these young turks out of his way too for some reason? Surely, he does not think they will make the best impression on Fingolfin or Maedhros? Are they a test of the Noldor's true temperament? Cellon was right to demand an truthful answer from his son. But, Oropher did volunteer, and setting him down for a wiser choice may not have been all that purposeful for Thingol. I hope some clear orders about not revealing the way into Doriath were issued. Thingol seems to know to be cautious, but does Oropher and company? Now, Celeborn smiling at Oropher's imperceptive remarks and being the level-headed one was fun to read. Oropher wanting to know if the Noldor had really saved the day and had freed the Sindar from their enchanted fortress of a forest made me smile. But, his closing remark made me laugh aloud. :D Good chapter, I liked it anyway and I look forward to the next. As they say, you are making history come alive!

daw the minstrel · 6 May 2007 · Chapter 2: Of the Rising of the Winged Sun over Beleriand

It's interesting to see these events from this POV. And Oropher is a nicely mixed character, adventuresome but still able to be responsible when he has to. I liked Thingol's reference to his "pack." LOL

Atlas · 21 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

I loved this chapter! It was obviously well researched and very well written. I wish to read more!

k_lara7 · 27 January 2006 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

An interesting begining. As I'm NOT familiar with the Simarilion, I think I'll have to work harder to follow, but that will be a worthwhile challenge.

J.G.E · 6 November 2005 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

Yay, the first chapter is out and the beginning of a great story, woohoo. I love how you got into the scene of battle right from the beginning, it just shows how the elves had a hard time in those days, btw when are you going to update your other story, I am keen on what is going to happen next

Eruanneth_Luin · 31 October 2005 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

How refreshingly delightful! A canon-based tale of the Elves. It is sad to think of the grief this fair folk suffered in their desire to live a peaceful life amid the trees of Beleriand. Defense, not conquest their goal, yet the Marring could not be altered; at best it was held, temporarily, at bay. I do hope that more chapters are forthcoming soon. :)

Ellie · 31 October 2005 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

This is good! Nice history lesson and details of the battle. Can't wait for more!

Dot · 30 October 2005 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

I was excited to see this! And apologies for the lateness in reviewing… First off, I really appreciate the quotes. I thought it was very helpful in providing a sense of time and place because I will admit that otherwise I would have been a little lost at first!! You did a marvellous job with the battle scene. We’re right in the middle of it immediately and yet we can still see how personal this is to so many. The scale of the battle is clear and yet it’s moments like Cries of ‘For my son, Gwaelon’ or ‘For my father, Tossion’ echoed across the battlefield as Elven swords cleaved Orc flesh. Each name rang in Thingol’s ears more loudly than the sounds of the clanging weapons and pierced his heart more painfully than Orkish blades might that made it most effective for me. Your Oropher is amazing. You’ve filled him with such passion right from the start. And he’s very driven. I didn’t know whether to laugh or cringe when he wanted to charge off towards the Orcs but it was a great character moment! I was glad of a little glimpse of the relationship between Oropher and Engwe and between him and Amglaur. It’s fascinating to see your OCs in a new light. Denethor’s death was done so well. There’s no question of how devastating it was and it really was such a powerful moment. I really liked the creation of the Girdle. It’s wonderfully simple and yet there’s something very magical about it. And I loved the rising of the moon! That must have been truly amazing for them. Their wonder and awe really comes across. Thank heavens Melian was there to reassure them that it’s ok, she knows him ;-) Manarindë glared back at the light coldly Oh look who it is! I’m always happy to see such a warm, good-hearted elleth… Actually, I’m looking forward to getting to know a little more about her. In fact, I’m looking forward to getting to know more about all these people! I’m fascinated already! :-)

perelleth · 28 October 2005 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

I'm amazed, elliska, two stories at the same time! Coooooool!!! :-) This first chapter is thrilling, and I liked the trick of placing the SIlm paragraphs to mark the change of scene, good idea! It is good to see that Oropher is consistent, that much we must give him!:-) and to see your OCs here is a good thing, either. Maybe we shall learn about Thranduil's most embarrasing moments as an elfling! :-) But I liked above all the description of what the new light seemed to the Sindar. I've been trying to do that from the Noldor's pov and of course the Sindarin pov is thrilling, and lovely.

Redheredh · 27 October 2005 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

You are posting a FA story! With a thrilling opening! And I am so excited to read a story about Oropher and the rest of his kin which includes my favorite elf. The inserted text is a great way to setup the scenes. The battle was tense and nicely choreographed. Using Cellon to convey the devastating loss of Denethor was very effective. You know your geography! Melian's casual application of her powers was oddly amusing. I look forward to getting to know more of the people and history of this House.

daw the minstrel · 27 October 2005 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

Wow, two stories at once. How do you do that? I have to admit that despite the grim situation, I started to laugh when Oropher wanted to charge down the hill more or less by himself. I guess people don't change much even in a couple of thousand years. And apparently Legolas isn't the first member of his house to count kills in a contest. Not too long ago, I read a quote from someone whose name I've forgotten saying something like "If the stars appeared only once every million years, how men would worship them." I was thinking about that on my way to work today as I saw that the maple tree outside my building has turned this glorious shade of red-orange. We take all these things -- including the moon -- so much for granted, but they're wondrous.

Bodkin · 27 October 2005 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

Manarindë glared back at the light coldly. Glad to see that a certain elleth is just as good-natured and lovable, even at the first rising of the moon. And just imagine being able to look up at the moon and say 'I know him'. And, come to that, to be able, without any apparent effort, to raise and maintain a barrier that keeps the baddies at bay. Melian packs some serious power - although I'm not entirely sure that she has much of a real understanding of elves. Except the general gorgeousness of Elu, of course. The battle was remarkable. Did you have battle plans, to see where everyone was and what they were doing? I'm glad to see that Oropher's impetuous side is already firmly in place - and his competitiveness with Amglaur. 'Impetuous' seems to be a bit of a family trait, too - one to which Denethor was not immune. I love this - it's great to see the back story to lots of the Interrupted Journeys characters and to get to meet those whose presence, by the Third Age, is sadly missed. I'm rubbing my hands together in glee at the prospect of two stories - and two sets of updates.

nat · 26 October 2005 · Chapter 1: Of the First Battle of the Wars of Beleriand and the Rising of the Moon

I love it! please continue as quickly as possible!