Reviews (42)

elliska · 16 May 2008 · Chapter 6: The Last Debate

A wonderful conclusion to this part. I must say, I really do not normally like modern day elf stories at all but this series of stories you have done is so real and believable/in character and packed with great details--I absolutely love it.

elliska · 16 May 2008 · Chapter 5: Under the Stars Part 2

I am definitely going to have to have to go read the chapters in Lost Tales with Ainu. I can't believe I don't remember him. This is really great!

elliska · 16 May 2008 · Chapter 4: Under The Stars. Part 1

I love Celeborn in this and I love the lynx's POV in the beginning. Very cool. And SOD is a topic dear to my heart--very well done here.

elliska · 16 May 2008 · Chapter 3: By the Ocean

I am catching up on reading: I love what priest says to Maglor here. I always felt for poor Maglor, and I can see him still wondering the world in modern times and I like the idea of him finding some comfort in the old priest's words. And the priest is a great character.

Redheredh · 13 May 2008 · Chapter 6: The Last Debate

Alrighty... It was nice picking things up back in the jungle with Maglor and seeing the affairs of the village and its people come under another guardian’s hands. But, I have to wonder how many times Maglor simply slipped away like that. Both literally and metaphorically. This last chapter is kind of an explanation why this guy was having trouble finding his miracle of forgiveness. A natural protectiveness propels him, for sure. But, for all his kindness, for all his innate honor, he still didn’t get it. He lacks true humility. He is not seeking forgiveness, but merely waiting for it. Perhaps subconsciously thinking to prove a point by having it bestowed upon him rather than him desperately seek it. However, after all this time, why has he not figured out that this current strategy is not working for him? Father Nino’s guidance was beneficial, but really, he has yet to hit bottom and throw himself on Eru’s mercy. “glad enough - after his French manner- “ LOL! And kudos on all the OCs! I loved Thranduil’s house and your description of it. Who would not want to live there? What a perfect setting to start off a mission to rescue a missing friend! Oh boy! Mystery and adventure ahead! Grab your fedoras! But, leave the whip behind, eh? Daeron certainly provided much needed levity during this quest. Interesting how intense Maglor grew when Thranduil’s life appeared threatened. We got to see the same protective verve that probably saved Elros and Elrond from being abused as political pawns. Thranduil was right to point that out later. And Celeborn’s managerial savvy and skills keeps everyone on course. What I personally liked was that none of them were wimps in this endeavor. Not even Thranduil, wrung out as he was. I kept feeling Maglor should use his rage to break down that wall between him and his Sindarin fellow exiles, acknowledge their acceptance of him rather than hide behind aloofness and arrogance. That would be a good first step to forgiveness. Examining his contempt of the Second Born as a race, his heirs as much as any he could ever have, would be a good second step. The look into the seamy underbelly and exploitive commerce in Coca was almost surreal. Yet, it was exactly what an oil town would be in whatever undeveloped wilderness these enterprises infect. I really loved the detailed local flavor you gave it! From the food to the drink. The particular brand of corruption and the inherent curruption of civilization. The ethnicity and humanity and the brutality. And yet, this is where people make their living and live as well. Oh yeah, *nods approval*, the Blue Monkey bar was exactly what it should be. ;) Tapuy ain’t exactly no Butterbur either. “For the first time in a few days Maglor smiled, though not prettily, openly pleased by his friends’ warlike attitude.” Me too! “Chaos ensued.” lol! I liked the use of the eagle and watching the entire recovery rather than getting a few short sentences about finding Thranduil, then picking it up with them all camped by the water. It was well done by Celeborn to share the actual vision, and with it his own reaction, rather than try to explain. Of course, that had more impact than mere words! So, Maglor got the role of devil’s advocate. However, his words also reveal that lack that has prevented his taking action to find forgiveness or some form of resolution for himself. But, finally he does reach real humility. He accepts Celeborn’s pledge to rescue him for the charity that it is. “I cannot condemn myself more than what I already am, so I can as well give you a hand in this useless fight of yours”. Until this admission, he has let himself be kept in limbo. But now, he was choosing to stop the pacing back and forth before a door that had been unlocked the moment his fellow exiles accepted him into their friendship. You know that I am not a Maglor fan, not in the least. But, I liked this aspect of the story very much and the way you used it, all the same. Nevertheless, the overall theme of fighting against the odds for a good cause is best of all. I think that 'noble defeat' is a theme in the Music. Life is a gift given by God out of love. Dedicating one’s life, or giving just an hour, to see that good gets done is to return that love and not take it for granted. Congratulations on completing this saga. It is quite an accomplishment.

Bodkin · 11 May 2008 · Chapter 6: The Last Debate

Poor Maglor - such guilt, so much despair. At least Daeron - and, more especially, Thranduil and Celeborn - know they are loved and have value, both in the Hither Lands and beyond. Knowing he has three determined elves on his side must ... take him back to a childhood - before the destruction of the Trees, before oaths, before betrayal and disgrace - when he was able to do the right thing and be loved. I'm glad his friends are standing by him - it must come as somewhat of a surprise. Love the - very knowledgeable exposure to the complications of trying to make international intervention work.

Redheredh · 11 May 2008 · Chapter 6: The Last Debate

Of course, I loved it! :D And shall return with more remarks when I have had time to re-read this and write them down. But, I must say right now, how the milieus you chose contribute so much to the story.

meckinock · 10 May 2008 · Chapter 6: The Last Debate

Perelleth, this is gorgeous and thought-provoking on so many levels, I need some time to digest it properly before I can hope to formulate a worthy review. I'll be back when I sound more coherent; just wanted to let you know it's fabulous.

daw the minstrel · 10 May 2008 · Chapter 6: The Last Debate

I liked this a lot. I liked the way you tied Tolkien's themes to the struggle we still wage. I liked the emphasis on refusing to despair even though all we do is fight the long defeat. And Maglor broke my heart.

Nilmandra · 10 May 2008 · Chapter 6: The Last Debate

I really liked this view of Maglor, with his concern and rage for his friends, the way he carried Thranduil off to safety. But mostly I loved his singing, of showing them the world and the stars and the moon and the sun, and what was and had been, and what was to come. And of course, I love that Earendil will come and they will not be forsaken! All have their roles to play, these Stewards, but thankfully. Iluvatar is still in control.

Redheredh · 12 April 2008 · Chapter 5: Under the Stars Part 2

Well gee, I think I am going to take a lesson from Bodkin and respond in a second review! ;) *g* You do not have to repeat disclaims for any element in your story. You selected from the many bits that Tolkien thought up and combined them beautifully on a plate of your own design. The same with the natural settings you chose. My comments about those things I enjoyed were to say that you did a good job of packaging it all up and catering to many tastes and that I appreciated particular tidbits, Tolkien's and your's, you included in the lovely meal. Please you deserve the credit and praise your readers have given you for this entire feast of words. Really, I did not mean to burden you about the hair color thing. Such details are my vice, not yours. My apologies for setting you off over a nit-picky quibble, because I think we are in agreement about a lusterous, light grey - a sort of platinum blonde, a polished mithril - color. lol! Maybe it is a cultural or generational thing about calling someone older "silver-haired" and to what degree we mean their hair is lighter than the usual grey associated with age. Not exactly snowy-white or we would have said that instead. Personal associations seem to be the real point. Tolkien seems to associate particular grey-elves with Telperion (telpe silver), just as certain light-elves are associated with Laurelin (laure gold). Like the Silvery Moon and Golden Sun. Celeborn and Galadriel. The descriptive words he uses for the White Tree and its scions are shining and white, never grey. Galadriel's hair was described as a combination of the luster of the Trees, which certainly did not include grey. The Lady would have a fit. ;) hehe!My own associations of "silver-haired" tend towards the very, very pale. Such as the Lone Ranger's white horse, Silver. And, depending on the movie, Richard Gere's lusterous silver locks. See, just a silly quibble... apparantly one I cannot seem to let go of either. *sheesh* God is Love and Love of Life Oh yes, just write some more, and I will oblige! Just write some more, please! After you've rested up and feel restored, of course!

meckinock · 10 April 2008 · Chapter 5: Under the Stars Part 2

Ah, Perelleth, this story is so moving, well, written, and intricately layered, it's taken me so long to review because I don't feel I can do it justice. But I can't let it go any longer without letting you know how much I enjoyed it. Your command of language is stunning, the imagery and settings are so beautiful, and the very Tolkien-esque sense of great doom was splendid. I'll try to be back with something more coherent later, but really, this is spectacular.

Redheredh · 7 April 2008 · Chapter 5: Under the Stars Part 2

Alrighty then! A bit delayed, but here we go! First off, I want to say the descriptions and images used throughout are quite poetic. Lovely storytelling and a lovely comment on what ‘noble failure’ truly means besides. "Sometimes a noble failure serves the world as faithfully as a distinguished success." Edward Dowden - and an Irishman might know better than most. ;) I loved this prequel to “Many Fruitless Victories”. Ah, Fate and Free Will! One of my favorite themes, as you know! On this earth, gravity is an irrefutable law of physics – everything will fall to the ground. At lease, until this planet is unmade. But in the meantime, mankind can fly - even without wings - because there were those who met the challenge to defy gravity. That opening scene was so much fun! Yay! Ingil made an appearance! It had the heartwarming irony you do so well. Finarfin, worried and harassed, was a fun focus. The formal rituals of respect you retained, a lord father’s request and a faithful son’s leave-taking, were pleasing to see. I think, Finarfin might almost insist on such paternal manners as a way to connect with the son he feels distanced from. Galadriel’s going with Gandalf got me to wondering whether all of her brother’s previous attempts were meant on her behalf. ;) Also, another “grey-cloaked figure” is mentioned! Galadriel was someone I thought might have been the figure on the eagle, come to help out, ya know. I really like that she was not a helper ‘goddess’ but “curious and intrigued as an elfling”. That felt a bit more real for her character during this adventure. Although , she was still the perfect means to help accomplish Manwe’s intention! Her hopes and pleas would certainly be more heartfelt than almost any other’s, and thus influence even by Aluin. As well, a component of the theme I really like was not robbing someone of a choice by denying it to them. Being given choices is integral to the idea that free will actually exists. I thought it lyrical that in the Silm measuring time began with the waxing and waning of the Trees. However, I really like this idea that Time itself started earlier and represents a gift, in the same vein that death does for Men. It is mortality for the Ainur, which is the same gift but suited to their nature. I really like that “hawser” and “Ship of Time” image, too. Loved seeing the return of the lynx and hearing the Song. That was interesting comparing mankind to mistletoe. Being American, I really liked the white bison (buffalo), where usually would be a white stag. Ack, a quibble… I couldn’t go without absolutely any, now could I? You have been describing Celeborn as “grey-haired”. He was not; that was Thingol, who has steely hair. Cirdan and Celelborn have silver hair; that means white-haired. Celeborn’s vow had me cheering! Here is an elf that gets things done! It fit will how he thought about the greater role of the Firstborn and then got down to a more individual role. Think Globally, but Act Locally, eh? ;) His return and conversation with Thomas and Maria had a rather, enjoyable, surreal feel to it. Or maybe, a portent feel. And a lezsi! Well, of course!! I like how you brought back the ritual respect used earlier and invoked the continued sense of noblesse oblige - not only between king and subject, prince and cause, father and son, but gods and mortals. I also like how you had Manwe admit that he also had choices and limitations. And he too would place his faith in others to do what he could not by his own hand. He has the courage and wisdom to delegate, that is to give tasks to the capable and trust their judgment as much as his own. The trait and talent of true leaders. The subjects of God is Love and Love of Life I think I will leave for another time. Lastly, back to the humour you do so well! :D Ha! Look out for Eager!Eonwe. Gosh, I enjoyed this chapter, the whole story as well. Can’t you tell? Thank you again for this present – thank you very much. Oh dear, one last quibble. I think you meant to have Ingil shouting instead of shooting at poor Finarfin. ...shooing?

Larner · 6 April 2008 · Chapter 5: Under the Stars Part 2

I love the layer of lords, lordships, and loves here in these last two chapters. Very thought-provoking as we see what we ourselves do to damage that left to us and as we seek to set things back into balance once more. We are indeed stewards, and may we be worthy ones in the end.

Larner · 6 April 2008 · Chapter 4: Under The Stars. Part 1

Time, eh? Interesting.... Celeborn seeks a vision of his beloved, while Thomas and Maria fight time and their differing, sundering fates as each tries to find the Answer. Entropy happens, as Asimov once noted.

Larner · 6 April 2008 · Chapter 3: By the Ocean

I'd hoped to see Maglor here, and was not disappointed. A wonderful thing, to see him accepting the comfort of Father Nino and Insa, and seeing the young man readied for his coming duties. Peace finds those who seek it, even a lost Elven bard....

Larner · 6 April 2008 · Chapter 2: Out in the desert.

And looking up Daeron sees the sign of hope descended from such love as SHE once knew. SHE is gone, but the hope continues on, even through this Age.... Lovely.

Redheredh · 5 April 2008 · Chapter 5: Under the Stars Part 2

Thank you so much for this lovely conclusion! I have to get my income tax forms done and turned in before I can get back with a real review. But, I wanted to let you know now how great your talent is, and thank you for your kind unbirthday gift. :D

Nilmandra · 5 April 2008 · Chapter 5: Under the Stars Part 2

There are some mighty deep thoughts in this story, Perelleth! I truly enjoyed the scene in Valinor, with Finrod's escape attempts and the family around Finarfin. I loved Mithrandir being sent on this 'mission' and that Galadriel not only went, they knew she would go! Aluin as the Lord of Time is fascinating. Time is a dimension that is so far above us sometimes that it is beyond comprehension, especially the idea that Eru exists outside of time, yet entered into Time with us. The Last Battle though, and what it means and whether we can forestall it or change it.... those are deep thoughts. The contrast of fate and doom against free will. Well, it is above me this morning. I have thought much about what it would take to set a tale in both Arda marred and Valinor, with the Dagor Dagorath and the end of all that we know. I am still thinking, and may still be thinking when the end comes! Nonetheless, I applaud you for taking on these deep deep things. They are good to ponder.

Bodkin · 5 April 2008 · Chapter 5: Under the Stars Part 2

“Maria and I both want the same things,” he started hurriedly, before his courage dissolved away. “Only in a different manner. They are descendants of Galadriel and Celeborn! I'm glad Celeborn was able to provide a compromise. And that, after so much time apart, there is a hint of a compromise for C&G. Mind you, I think dwelling in Aman would drive me mad! Apart from the immortality, they're all surrounded by people who can see through granite and understand underlying motives beyond the comprehension of mystics. Growing up there must be awful - adolescent angst doesn't need to be understood, predicted and dealt with. Let alone ages-old stress. It would seem that the End is Nigh - in elven/cosmic terms, anyway. But Celeborn would be Celeborn if he wasn't determined to fight the long defeat until the last possible moment. It should be depressing, but somehow it's not. Not as long as the battle continues, anyway. And what a meandering comment.

daw the minstrel · 4 April 2008 · Chapter 5: Under the Stars Part 2

How odd for the Valar to feel time closing in. I'm also interested in the way you balance the idea of the Song that's always been and the possibility of changing things.

Bodkin · 31 March 2008 · Chapter 4: Under The Stars. Part 1

Poor Thomas and Maria! Echoes of former loves and partings swirl around them - and I wouldn't be surprised to find that both of them shared some distant connection to the elves. I hope Thomas manages to ... attract the funding to help the forest, but I doubt he will have any long-term success. But at least he might be reunited with his wife. In time. I loved Celeborn and the lynx. And his discovery of the pond. And his ability to cope with the ingestion of quantities of vodka. While the Steve McQueen style Great Escape from Valinor is highly entertaining - when is the potential escapee going to try the motorcycle technique? It would seem as if Celeborn's reluctance to suggest that the end is nigh is justified. Although I'm not as sure as Manwe is that he's never been wrong. I'm looking forward to part 2.

Redheredh · 11 February 2008 · Chapter 4: Under The Stars. Part 1

Thank you so much for another chapter! You know how I love this story! Each chapter highlighting a different location and crisis is a marvelous construct. You portray the awful decline and the condition of those working to salve these hurts so very well. In general, people have become so focused on the plight of the rain-forest, they have barely noticed the failing of deciduous forests. Yet, it is the same problem in their own backyard! I like the setting in Poland and environmental subject of this chapter very much, and seeing this particular one of the last four of quendi kind as the protagonist. The hunt was a nice, tense start. But, the sub-theme - the solitary male - catches one's attention at the very beginning and does not let go. I love how you used the solitary lynx to introduce that theme and establish the parallel between elf and man. Then, you show the parallel between Celeborn and Thomas so clearly. It was very touching, how they yearned to fulfil a higher purpose that included their natural purpose on this earth. And facing the usual next step of disoriented pursuit. Although... It was a little cruel of you to have Maria look so like Galadriel. And comparing poor Thomas' options to Celeborn's. Cruel in just making their situations so alike. Still, the irony you created, especially for Celeborn offering Maria the job, was very well done. And what reader does not enjoy good angst? ;) Hiding the path into Caras Galadhon was neat. Even if the mellyrn have been replaced with oaks, the way into the heart of elfdom on Earth remains secret. That some of old magic remains is appealing. Oh, you are such a romantic! I admit that I absolutely love what you do with people in love. Is the song a real song? Gosh, I wish that to be so. I could just hear the violin and Thomas singing in a voice like Yul Brenner... Hmm, I have a couple of guesses who this pesky grey-cloaked elf could be... ];} One reason I enjoy your stuff is that your ideas mesh well with my own. That is very reassuing that I am not so silly. :) Lastly, I must say that I feel Maria and her dilemma represent you. If not absolutely so, than you have lent her character a good deal of your personal experience. Her decisions look to be tough as well. Thank you again for this update and birthday wishes! But, I hope we do not have to wait until next November for Part 2! Sheesh! Post sooner than later, please! Pierogi! I like the ingredients in your recipe better than those in my grandmother's!

Elena Tiriel · 10 February 2008 · Chapter 4: Under The Stars. Part 1

Well, this story is truly fascinating, Perelleth! I love all the details of various locations, and it looks to me like you catch the "flavor" of the inhabitants of each area really well. Either you are an anthropologist, by training or by inclination, or you are simply brilliant! Or both. Well done! - Barbara

Haleth · 10 February 2008 · Chapter 1: Deep in the forest

You don’t want to hear the rest of the story. I already know the rest of the story. It's repeated over and over and over again in the Western Hemisphere (and probably other places, I just know more about the specifics here.) The story is a beautifully told tragedy. I wish it weren't so dared real.