Reviews (64)

Bodkin · 17 March 2007 · Chapter 6: All things now grow cold

I love the greater understanding that has developed between Glorfindel and Gil-galad - even if Glorfindel's foresight is really sad. Poor Gil-galad. He did his best, always, to be the most honorable and wise king his house could provide, but it sounds as if there was an element of despair deep within him that he could never succeed. To know that he was mistaken about the reasons behind Glorfindel's appearance was doubtless a reassurance. The - er - competition? between the different groups ... well. Not surprising. And I daresay they enjoyed themselves - as long as no group trounced the others too overwhelmingly. And Idhren ought to have enough sense to know that you can't make everything go as you wish - much better for Bronadel to reach the sea in safety than disappear so that his family don't know what became of him. I love the ... model? And Oropher is the perfect person to work on Doriath - and he'll love it if only he can get over his instinctive suspicion that everyone is out to get him. While it will do a lot to boost his relationship with all those working on the project. And knowing that Annatar was Sauron might really be a good reason for keeping an indignant Finrod in Aman. It is not a Good Thing. But I am very glad to know that Gil-galad's kin are proud of him - and it's just a shame that he doesn't really realise how well he is doing. Delightful, perelleth. Thoroughly enjoyed this!

Redheredh · 16 March 2007 · Chapter 6: All things now grow cold

The sea was calm as far as elven sight reached in that silvery night. There were a few passing shreds of mist, hurrying in the darkness towards early morning appointments and barely dimming the glorious light of the stars and the almost full moon. Tilion and Eärendil seemed deep in conversation, surely watching over the white ship as it took the Straight Road, Glorfindel thought as he stood in the long terrace, enthralled by the deep stillness that shrouded that night of partings. That was lovely... Oropher's back to doing his thing, I see. ;) Which was fun! Enjoyed the references to Pengolodh. :D Glorfindel got interesting as his personal motivations were explained. But, the last part with Gil-galad and Glorfindel... wow... Every bit was excellent, every detail savory. Brilliant plot points. Nice conflict/conversation between them. I especially like Annatar casting a subtle dark spell over Gil-galad - and Gil-galad not being stopped by it. The young king's fears were so rational, yet steeped in emotion. That might have made them very damaging, if this had been another, more selfish, elf. Very tough investigation they are embarking upon. Maybe spies would be of help. Chilling conclusion by Glorfindel, though. Goodness, he must realize he is in the same boat. And if the Valar know about Sauron and foresee destruction - has not Sauron figured out the odds are in his favor too? That ending pushed this chapter from the good category into the great.

erunyauve · 16 March 2007 · Chapter 6: All things now grow cold

Can I squee a little at a new chapter? >>Was that unfulfilled longing somehow embedded deep within himself, only awaiting the right moment to awake, he wondered in trepidation not for the first time? A rather sad foreshadowing of Legolas' sea-longing. I like the idea, however, that elves descended from those who turned back before the Misty Mountains had less interest in the sea from the outset. >>"Meeting my cousin Idril was one of the greatest joys of my life," he recalled in a warm voice. ::g:: I adore Idril and Tuor, so of course, I think all elves should have felt likewise (well, except Maeglin). >>"It was difficult for a child to understand why he had to apologize every time a word in his own tongue slipped in conversation," That's such an interesting idea, and very logical. The sons of Feanor, of course, wouldn't have seen any reason to speak Sindarin among themselves, they being the reason for the ban, and I can't see that the rest of the Noldor - especially Fingon, being a friend to Maedhros - dropping Quenya altogether. And yet it would be very confusing for a small child, who wouldn't understand the politics of it all. >>We both know that you were sent to protect your king’s line, I can well understand that Oh, I wasn't expecting that! But it certainly fits. >>The Valar knew. Oh, they must have known, and considering that, just as in the case of Morgoth getting loose, it was their own fault, one would think that they would have done more - on behalf of Men, at least, if not for the Elves who were supposed to leave Middle-earth. >>a foe that had been beyond the power of the best of them to defeat Well, Luthien did, but to be fair, she used what she had inherited from her mother to do it.

elliska · 15 March 2007 · Chapter 6: All things now grow cold

Oh my gosh, I have missed this entirely! How did that happen? I read this last chapter and I was thinking, this is not familar, I don't remember any of this, so I scanned the other chapters and realized I have missed a whole story. Well, good in a way because now I have something new to read! :-) And all this Oropher. How could I have missed this? I love him here. But I must say, the character I was most impressed with in this last chapter was Glorfindel. From Memories tasted differently in Middle-earth in the beginning, to the end, his character is wonderful. I will have to get caught up on this tomorrow and leave more reviews. Fun!!

daw the minstrel · 15 March 2007 · Chapter 6: All things now grow cold

Glorfindel's final insight is chilling here, Perelleth. For me, one of the joys of fanfiction is that we know people's fate, so we read the stories in light of that and it adds depth. But for Glorfindel, foresight about Gil-galad's fate is just too sad. I've always loved that poem that Sam speak in FOTR, the one about Gil-galad being an elven king who fell in Mordor, where the shadows are.

French Pony · 10 February 2007 · Chapter 5: Upon the Rocks of Strange Shores

Oropher definitely deserves that apology. Gil-galad absolutely should have informed him of any growing threat, whether or not it menaced Oropher directly, and whether or not Oropher decided to do anything about it. I suppose that's just Noldor paternalism, withholding valuable information so the Sindar and Silvan won't worry their pretty little heads about big bad Sauron. I liked the going-away ceremony. Simple, but very meaningful.

Bodkin · 8 February 2007 · Chapter 5: Upon the Rocks of Strange Shores

I love Glorfindel's reassurance to Miluinn. She needed that so badly - and he was able to offer her something that no-one else could. If Oropher could only ... relax a bit. Let go of the past. He and Gil-galad have a lot in common - and could help each other. But elves aren't always that good at forgiving. Not even at forgiving the actions of ancestors unto the third and fourth generation. But Gil-galad's maturity is eroding many of Oropher's objections to him. (Although the map joke, by now many centuries old, should be forgotten! Oropher seems the kind of adult who insists on reminding the kids into middle age of the follies of their early childhood.) Glorfindel might be glad to know that exasperation with his innocent glory is bringing others together. Maybe. Although I'm pleased to see him bonding - in the nicest possible way - with Elrond. And Cirdan. Beautiful ceremony - so sad. The uncrossable division between those who remain and those who go is so hard on both sides. I loved that the trees for each of the ships that sail west are volunteers for the task. I love your spin on this world - and all the great characters in it.

Redheredh · 6 February 2007 · Chapter 5: Upon the Rocks of Strange Shores

Ah, more than a few things of note this round - - "I am king by consent" Something we both agree on. There is a social contract that both parties, the leader and the led, participate in for a greater good. And when it is good, it is very, very good. - "I am only glad that I can fufil that duty" Gil-galad's way of redeeming himself from his heritage? - "more bendable to his designs" Very interesting viewpoint. But, sad that Gil-galad sees this knowledge being of little aid in the prevention of another downfall. - "the strength to resist his treacherous words" Without help, Annatar would have swayed Gil-galad? Well, it did take Gandalf to keep Saruman's even simpler persuasion at bay... - "whom is he that we are fighting here" So, still a mystery, eh. What a blow it will be when they find out. - "he is as exasperating" Heh, I like that Gil-galad finds Glorfindel a bit of a trial. And that Oropher understands why. - "I would consider Maentew as yours" Yay! Maentew will have a place in the Greenwood after the Last Alliance. - "it is enough for me to know that you are not involved" Tsk! That a gift for Gil-galad threatens their new-found understanding. Pranksters really do no understand the long-term consequences of their actions. ;) Although, some people definitely carry a grudge too long, too. - "Now lead if you can, youngling" I liked this whole opening conversation so much, and the mutual respect they show each other as, so Gil-galad reminds his councillors later, allied kings. The antics and emotions around Miluinn's leave-taking were touching - tenderly humorous. I hope someday we get to hear more of the lady's tale. - "I am still learning" I like seeing Glorfindel finding his feet this way. :) However, imho your explanation as to why those in Ennor do not have knowledge of the reborn was interesting, but not very reasonable as to why they are not given it. What real harm could it do? I think such news would inspire people to go west just as the Valar always wanted them to. Gil-galad has matured nicely. For a few minutes though, I thought the jig was up with the plot in the Hall of Maps! Let's hope Erestor was joking about how to enlist Oropher's help! - "memory is the treasure of our kin" And their burden. The solace and sorrow of the elves. That was a lovely speech. The sea-longing passage elves experience seem so much like succumbing to old age for a mortal - departing this trying world for the next, more peaceful realm of existence. The parting can be sad, but also eased by the promise of rest from turmoil and the promise of a reunion with loved ones. A very interesting and entertaining chapter.

daw the minstrel · 6 February 2007 · Chapter 5: Upon the Rocks of Strange Shores

I don't think I've ever seen a more touching picture of elves sailing west, nor one that articulated better the sorrow and pain of leaving and the joy of going home. And Oropher does all right when the chips are down. He understands Gil-galad's position, if not what help he's supposed to supply in the Hall of Maps.

Nilmandra · 6 February 2007 · Chapter 5: Upon the Rocks of Strange Shores

The chapter was great, Perelleth, but I'm afraid that Glorfindel's glowing has blinded me so that all I can see is him! That scene with the housekeeper was very nice - so good of him to calm her, to see what waits for her beyond. At the end, I felt sad that they turned him from Gil-galad, who appears to need the same peace that Glorfindel gave to Miluinn. I am very curious to see what Elrond and Erestor are planning for Gil-galad, and what contribution they need from Oropher. Back to Glorfindel.... :D I found it interesting that the two he sees so clearly are Cirdan and Elrond - Cirdan makes sense, I think, in that his mind must remain unclouded since he is in contact with the Valar, with Ulmo. Why Elrond? Because he is Earendil's son?

erunyauve · 6 February 2007 · Chapter 5: Upon the Rocks of Strange Shores

>>the Noldo dismissed his concerns with a lazy wave of his hand, a movement he had mastered with the years, Oropher noticed wickedly ::snerk:: >>"It is said that of the three Elven kindred Morgoth chose the Noldor because he gauged us the more bendable to his designs. And he was not disappointed," The querulous Noldor! >>It was not that he was not allowed to speak about Valinor –except about those who had been released as well from Mandos’ care, and of those he had met a very few, anyway. That's always been a question to me - how much did the Elves know of the fate of their kin who died? Glorfindel would have known something, and so would the Elves of Tol Eressea who had contact with the Numenoreans. And I love the reference to Olorin! I particularly like the way you portray Elrond, as a contemporary and sometimes somewhat irreverent advisor. There's no evidence anywhere that Gil-galad 'fostered' the twins - they would have been too close in age. Cirdan, maybe, but I've always liked the implication in the Silm and Tale of Years that Maedhros and Maglor raised them rather than abandonning them in a cave.

erunyauve · 8 January 2007 · Chapter 4: Words May Reopen Wounds

>>I do not know for sure, but for what I have gleaned, the Mírdain have been meddling with the breath of earth and water and stone, binding it in the forge into metals to which the fëa of the wielder is also tied –following Annatar’s secret knowledge. Tolkien states that Annatar was successful in lands outside Lindon (though most successful in Eregion), and ordinarily, I would take that to imply that he made inroads into Oropher and Amdil's lands, given that we haven't much else from which to choose. I've always thought, for the reason you give above, that Annatar wouldn't have had anything Oropher would want. >>“but it seems that all of us are but pale reflections of a more glorious past,” he finished with hardly disguised bitterness. I quite like your interpretation of Gil-galad. He tends to be portrayed with a sort of distant perfection rather than as a character with feelings and failures, and you've done the latter quite well. I have to say again that I'm finding your interpretation of these years so interesting. I've been writing the same time period with very different results (in part because I decided not to use the revolt against Galadriel and Celeborn and instead to go with another version). I like the way you've portrayed Celebrimbor as aloof to the whole thing, being consumed by his artistic aims - that chimes with Tolkien's observation that he had an 'almost dwarvish obsession with crafts'. You do a wonderful job of showing rather than telling.

meckinock · 7 January 2007 · Chapter 4: Words May Reopen Wounds

I really enjoyed Oropher's conversation with Maentew about Annatar. It was interesting getting a first-hand account from someone who had actually fallen for the deception. Usually in Tolkien we only get to hear from the ones who are able to say "Told you that guy was no good!" There's something so true in his assertion, “You would have fallen for his tricks as well, had you been there and a wise and powerful being came and promised to unveil before you the hidden words that govern stone and root, and the fabric of time, so you would be able to arrest decay and ban suffering from your beloved forest” . Certainly many did, didn't they? Distinguishing evil from good is such a fundamental theme of Tolkien, running clear through to the Ring War, when Frodo says about Aragorn that a spy of the Enemy would seem fairer and feel fouler, or when Aragorn tells Eomer that it is a man's part to discern [good and ill] as much in the Golden Wood as in his own house. I love seeing characters of all ages and races struggle with the same dilemmas. But with this bunch, the personalities and politics are fascinating, too, as fascinating as the realization that something must be done is watching everyone come to grips with what that means for him. And I really enjoyed Elrond's bow practice with Glorfindel.

meckinock · 7 January 2007 · Chapter 3: A shadow arises that hates us

I find myself thoroughly enjoying Oropher. He's a bit of an outsider and would happily stay that way, but he's a realist, and doesn't really trust these Noldori...how did he put it? The Noldorin blindness to everything except their own strategies and priorities? Of course that's a completely subjective assessment, but that's what makes this story so fascinating - seeing how all these heroic but highly divergent characters view one another and the growing threat. I do love the bits of humor overlaying a very dark subject - particularly Oropher's musing about Glorfindel and, his discreet eavesdropping on the king's council.

French Pony · 7 January 2007 · Chapter 4: Words May Reopen Wounds

All in all, Oropher seems to be doing pretty well. He shows himself to be far more flexible than any of his companions would be willing to grant him, pragmatic almost to a fault. He must feel that he's being constantly lied to and betrayed on all sides, especially with this news of Annatar and Celebrimbor and all the political machinations going on in the world around him. When you look at it his way, it does seem like a monumentally dumb idea to learn to make rings bound up so intimately with the maker's personality.

Redheredh · 6 January 2007 · Chapter 4: Words May Reopen Wounds

This was a very clever chapter!! Secrets and intelligence are important advantages in wartime and you touch on that, but you also foster an atmosphere of how the past generation had mighty knowledge and it has faded in current times. Ah, the allure of power... I really liked starting off with Oropher and Maentwe reconciliation, 'cause you knew how very curious I was about what had happened to the poor elf and why. Their personal relationship and connected histories are incredibly intriguing. I like that Maentwe was a Sindarin smith (almost as much as I appreciate Erestor being Nandor) and both friends had contact with Eol. The way you used that past secret to reveal a present one was very clever indeed! However, it sounds as if it will be a real surprise when Annatar turns out to be, not just a minion of the Dark Enemy, but his first lieutenant! Also, I liked how events in Gondolin are viewed with some scepticism. Perhaps Eol's ultimate fate there is held against the Noldor rulers? Even though he might have deserved it... Or blaming Meglin for what happened, even though he might have done exactly what they claim he did... Very interesting. Brilliant idea that Annatar was using the Mirdain, not just to make rings, but stockpile better armaments than his enslaved smiths could produce! The advancements being made in all the arts in this city would encourage him to take additional advantage while having to maintain a presence there, since kept from exerting his influence inside Lindon itself. It makes me wonder if he changed his strategy after Gil-galad sent him away. Maentwe proves to be a good character to explain to Oropher and the reader how things are going in Eregion and why. I especially like his lesson on the loss of freedom and the harm of isolationism, whether political or scientific. Consequences that Oropher naturally understands but he had to be brought around to admitting. And a Clever!Amdir as well. Good show. Two nit-picks though - Of course! but totally imho - ;) There was never any question of the Misty Mountains offering protection from the growing eastern evil. That is why Celeborn and Galadriel were building their influence in Lorinand and Oropher had reason to band with Amdir. In one variation of their history, that is exactly what happens - Celeborn fortifies Lothlorien and Galadriel stays in Lindon where it should have been safe. The Three Rings lured Sauron into attacking Eregion and bypassing lands in the Anduin valley. He went through Eriador and on to Lindon for the same reason - in pursuit of the elven-rings. The effect of events in the north around the Lonely Mountain were negligible at this time. The Numenoreans were not yet a target of Sauron's. Their participation against him put them in his sights earlier than they might otherwise have been. I am curious if you think the High Pass was mapped before or after the Second Age, because I agree with you that northern Eriador was not widely explored. Good thing when a refuge (which became Imladris) was needed. Maentew's description of Annatar's binding natural powers into metal is a little off. There have been many discussions about Tolkien's brand of magic. He says himself that elves invested themselves into their creations. That was normal. Tapping into the power of their heart and spirit to make powerful spells were not beyond them. But, capturing Light (the purified power of creation) was only achieved by a few like Feanor. And Celebimbor in a lesser fashion. The three rings are an incarnation of the Silmarillion. But, Sauron's ring was an attempt to capture the Flame Imperishable (the source of creation) for his own use. You make Glorfinedel a very believable agent of the Valar. I support Gil-galad's reaction to the his arrival and what it really means! I think you tapped into the same suspicion he felt towards Annatar. Glorfindel's opinion of Elrond was edifying, though. Like that alot too. Their conversation was very entertaining! I love the way you handle all the elves' interactions - in all your stories! Nice that Oropher now knows about Glorfindel and that it made him feel more comfortable. Enough to show off, anyway! His encounter with Baghan was priceless! Now, I want to reread about the Drudain and think about Pukal-men! What you did with horses and the ride was excellent. Love the way you use such details to create a visual and emotional setting that lends connotation to what the characters are actually saying. In truth, this chapter was about Oropher coming to a more enlightened understanding with *everyone*, and probably - aside from the clever ideas! - why I particularly liked it. Your Oropher is not that much like mine, but with this chapter, I would not mind if he was. Hmmm, I probably should have emailed... just was too lazy to do both a review and a letter. My apologies...

daw the minstrel · 6 January 2007 · Chapter 4: Words May Reopen Wounds

I lived the portrayal of the Druedain. I'd not seen them in fanfic before, at least not like this. Oropher is an interesting person. You've given him a nice range of feelings--arrogance, temper, regret, prejudice--and yet mostly concern for his people and a very sharp intelligence. I love Gil-galad. He's such a noble figure.

Nilmandra · 6 January 2007 · Chapter 4: Words May Reopen Wounds

I forgot to add: Using galvorn was a brilliant touch to helping Maentwe see that Annatar was more than he claimed.. that tie to Eol and Maeglin and the fall of Gondolin was a superb way to tie Sauron's long history with the elves and Morgoth together, and ultimately to the events that are now to come.

Nilmandra · 6 January 2007 · Chapter 4: Words May Reopen Wounds

Wonderful chapter, Perelleth. I love your Oropher more and more, as we see that underneath the brash arrogance and provoking words, is someone with a keener mind and better understanding than one might think. He comes to learn what is at risk for Middle-earth as well as his people. For all that he mocks and provokes Gil-galad, there is also respect for the young king. Glorfindel is amusing as well, and I like that you had him not accepted or liked on arrival. Writing from Elrond and Glorfindel's pov, I don't think I could do that! But the approach of this story is perfect for all these conflicts. What strikes me again, as ofen happens with your writing, is the depth to which you understand people. You see deeper than the surface, yet can present both the surface and the depth of their personalities and issue well.

Bodkin · 6 January 2007 · Chapter 4: Words May Reopen Wounds

Lovely. Oropher's grown up. And he's listening to what people - and trees - are saying. Although I enjoyed hearing that Amdir had resorted to sneakiness to get Oropher to be in a position where he would have to listen and learn. I just hope he learns what Gil-galad has to offer. And I'm glad he's talked with Maentew - and that the man was able to disconcert him! Not a very coherent review - but I just wanted to get back to you quickly. I'm going back to read it again now!

French Pony · 24 December 2006 · Chapter 3: A shadow arises that hates us

The comedy of manners continues. I like it, but I'm at home and therefore can't leave a nice long review. But I am enjoying this muchly.

Bodkin · 24 December 2006 · Chapter 3: A shadow arises that hates us

Poor Glorfindel! This is all rather difficult for him. But a more mature Oropher - one who has found his place and can negotiate rather than confront! Whatever next. But they've had time to grow into their roles now - and can afford to be more understanding of each other. Besides, there is nothing like a common enemy for helping people overcome the emphasis on petty differences. And Oropher gets to spend time with Maentew. Jolly good!

erunyauve · 24 December 2006 · Chapter 3: A shadow arises that hates us

Oropher has developed nicely. I like the way you've brought the Druedain in. There just aren't enough stories written about elves in the Second Age, and it's fascinating to me to see how different authors gather together Tolkien's bits and pieces and changes of mind to put together a coherent history of the years leading to the War of Elves and Sauron.

Redheredh · 23 December 2006 · Chapter 3: A shadow arises that hates us

I definitely like Oropher's guards. :) But, now I am worrying - Bronadel seems more than impressed with the dance of the waves... Poor Gil-galad, it's not easy being a doomed king...maybe you will help him find his suitable counterpart before the end of this tale? Well anyway, you have made this a very interesting look at the long calm before the storm of war. Fascinating and never forgetting that most of the time it is personalities, and not always circumstances, that push events along. Cirdan certainly is an irresistible, relentless force in ME, like a natural force easier for Oropher to relate to, and you made great use of him here. It is especially nice to see your other stories' details, not only mentioned, but also put to excellent use. The whole bit between Erestor and Glorfindel was vastly entertaining! As was Oropher's and Cirdan's conversation! :D Just like Oropher, even when he and Cirdan came into the infirmary, I did not suspect what Cirdan had in mind until too late. But, I love that that those two were thrown together. Now, we may find out just what happened to Maentew! I am glad you allowed Oropher to learn the truth about Miluinn's departure. She sounds like a very interesting person from whom to hear new stories of the history of the House of Finwe in Endore.

Nilmandra · 23 December 2006 · Chapter 3: A shadow arises that hates us

I liked Erestor's answer to Glorfindel, that he reminds them of what they have lost. The maids and house elves are quite hilarious, using Glorfindel as their meidator. Cirdan is still wise, and I like how he sees through Oropher, that he has grown up in many ways. Poor Oropher, as irascible as he is (and barely likable at times) I felt for him when he finally realized that they evening's event was the sailing of a ship. I'll help him knock his head against stone. And Oropher should learn something here too - it seems the sea longing may have been awakened in one of his own guards. He may learn that the Silvans are still of the Eldar, Moriquendi though they be, and the call of the sea lies dormant deep within their hearts.