Imhiriel
· 8 September 2008
· Chapter 31: The Death of Hope
Amidst the fierce and clever planning, this moment stood out for me:
Námo and Vairë stared out upon the lake... their lake. It was their favorite spot on the entire planet and they were both grateful that Melkor had ignored it for the larger landmass. *Whatever happens, at least we can remember this place and know that Melkor never touched it,*
This chapter was really difficult to read, between nail-biting and inarticulate noises of "oooh, no... yikes... oooh..." It was horrific, and I'm truly grateful that I know it has to end well, but my... with what horrible prospect do you leave us at the end of this chapter!
Author's reply
It was also a very difficult chapter to write as well.
Tari
· 8 September 2008
· Chapter 23: The First Council of Manwë
Very interesting chapter. It reminds me of "He that is last shall be first and he that is first shall be last". I think I have it in the right order.
I certainly hope there are no spies for Melkor in the group.
I love it when you revert to the Thee's and Thou's.
Tari
Author's reply
I think the quotation is very apt here although I suspect that the order needs to be reversed. *grin* At any rate, we will see how successful the Ayanumuz are in executing their plans.
Imhiriel
· 8 September 2008
· Chapter 30: The Battle of Twelve Suns
You really manage to convey the sheer, literally cosmic scope of this battle. I sometimes had the feeling I was seeing fireworks and flashes coming out of my screen *g*!
How can there be such a pain that even such all-powerful beings as the Valar suffer so much from it? Awesome and terrible, and so hard to imagine - but here it is, and we are given an inkling of it...
I'm very grateful for the calmer scenes strewn in between, for the much-needed breather. And yet, they also serve to make the clamour and confusion of the battle that much more obvious in contrast. It reminds me of one of the behind-the-scenes section of the TTT DVD, where the sound technicians described how they removed all sound for the moment immediately before the wall of Helm's Deep was blown away - so as to not go overboard with even more noise, and yet give it the much needed emphasis of the impact of this explosion.
And now on to the next chapter to learn just what Oromë and Námo's plan entails (and thanks for the tease *g*!)...
Author's reply
I'm glad you found the scope of the battle cosmic. That was what I was trying to convey. Not very easy to do on paper, but I figured most people had seen "Star Wars" and similar kinds of movies and could fill in the gaps with their own images.
Tari
· 5 September 2008
· Chapter 22: Diversions and Ambuscades
This is beyond the shadow of a doubt the most fascinating story I have ever read.
Three cheers to Namo who was able to reject Melkor’s attempt to recapture him, although I know the rest of the Valar would not have allowed it to happen anyway.
Author's reply
Thanks, Tari. I'm glad you find this story so fascinating. I know others do as well and I have enjoyed writing it.
Námo is finally beginning to reject Melkor's plans for him though he still has a long way to go before he achieves final healing.
Tari
· 3 September 2008
· Chapter 21: Disappointment
Growing up is hard enough without having to deal with the demons Namo is facing. Having to put the evil Melkor reeked upon him behind would probably be next to impossible for a human to handle.
Author's reply
Námo has a long road to recovery, but he is a Vala and will eventually be able to do so, much better than most humans. We see that in my later Valar-verse stories. I'm sure there were still moments even ages later when he may have had moments of darkness (as we all do) but with the love of his family and the support of his Maiar, I'm also sure those moments were few and far between.
This is a chapter I'd been very much looking forward to...the descriptions and structure of the lamps are so very visual...hard to know that they will eventually be destroyed. The courtships and playfulness of the Valar here are especially poignant in regard to everything they've been through (and will again). For the time being, though they're getting to let go a little, and I always enjoy these interludes!
Author's reply
Hi Cat. I'm glad this chapter did not disappoint. I tried to make it as descriptive as possible given the paucity of detail in the Silmarillion and elsewhere about the construction of the Lamps and of Almaren itself. And I like to show that the Valar had moments (sometimes long, sometimes short) of peace and joy.
Kitty
· 1 September 2008
· Chapter 36: Almaren Rising
It makes me uncomfortable to know that Aulendil and Curumo work on these two lamps – even if I know that at least Curumo remained on the right path for a long time after that. Interesting how our knowledge of later times is colouring our sight, isn’t it?
Glad to know they’re able to heal Ambarhíni, though it is so much work to do. And it’s good to watch the Ayanumuz playing again – they certainly need the relaxation. Watching Námo, Oromë and Tulkas reminds me quite a bit of Glorfindel and Finrod ;)
Author's reply
Our knowledge of later times does indeed color our perceptions of earlier times. Still, these two Mayar are not yet traitors, though Aulendil will soon show his true colors.
The Ayanumuz know when it is time to work and when it is time to play... and you're right about Namo, Orome, and Tulkas... here you see them in the beginning of their friendship.
Ces
· 29 August 2008
· Chapter 36: Almaren Rising
Ahhh, the calm before the storm I'm thinking. It's just what they needed though - a little fun and relaxation before Melkor makes his next appearance.
Námo's inner child is never far from the surface is it? Whether racing or refusing to speak to Yavanna! Loved it!
Tulkas and Nessa seem to be a lovely couple - and very sweet. And Tulkas is no different from big brothers anywhere is he?
Ces
Author's reply
I think you meant that Orome is no different from big brothers anywhere and that of course is true, especially when it comes to looking out for their sisters. *grin*
I don't think Namo will ever lose his inner child, which is a good thing, because he can more easily relate to the fear of the dead as they regain their innocence.
Larner
· 28 August 2008
· Chapter 36: Almaren Rising
Very nice to see things being reconstituted, and love the idea of the cliffdiving and the race.
No spouse for Ulmo, eh, and Nessa is obsessed with Tulkas? Heh!
Author's reply
Well we know from the Silmarillion that Ulmo did not take a spouse (same with Nienna) and of course Tulkas and Nessa eventually do wed.
Kaylee
· 28 August 2008
· Chapter 36: Almaren Rising
I know Tulkas and Nessa got married on Almaren, but I thought all the other Valar and Valier (except, of course, Nienna and Ulmo) were espoused prior to Almaren's raising. Or else they just were not married on Almaren. Did we miss the weddings? *wants to see how Namo and Vaire's, and Orome and Vana's, went especially, very much*
Oh, and I loved Orome and Namo chasing each other *grin* and Orome's worries about Nessa and Tulkas. He's a wonderful big brother to Nessa.
~Kaylee!
Author's reply
There is no clear indication that they were all espoused prior to Almaren's founding. The only couples I have espoused are Manwe/Varda and Aule/Yavanna, the others have not yet official wed. Tulkas and Nessa's wedding is the only one Tolkien specifically mentions in the Silmarillion and so I've decided not to include other weddings with theirs (described in the next chapter) but will show them espousing at a later date.
Tari
· 26 August 2008
· Chapter 20: Designing Worlds
Playing catch with a miniature mountain. What fun. They do need a break from the job of creating the universe every now and then.
Tari
Author's reply
Everyone needs some downtime every once in a while, including the Valar... especially the Valar, considering the sort of things they have to do to bring the universe into being.
Tari
· 22 August 2008
· Chapter 19: On Constructing Atháraphelun
Masterful, absolutely masterful. Your conception as to how Eä might have been created is mind-boggling. I do believe Námo is beginning to come into his own.
Tari
Author's reply
Thanks, Tari. I tried to integrate what we know of the history of our universe with the mythology given to us by Tolkien and offer a solution between the two. And yes, Námo is beginning to come into his own, though he still has a way to go.
Shemyaza
· 20 August 2008
· Chapter 35: The Price of Victory
I have been meaning for some time to write and say how much I admire your writing and your thoroughness in your characterisation. This seems as good a time as any. I always await an update with anticipation and you rarely disappoint!
Author's reply
Thanks Shemyaza. I really appreciate you telling me how much you admire my writing. I'm glad you are enjoying this story (and I'm assuming the others). Thanks for letting me know.
Earlinde
· 18 August 2008
· Chapter 35: The Price of Victory
I absolutely love this story! I have been searching everywhere on the net for really good stories about the Valar and yours definately take the cake! Your characterization are perfect, the settings, the plot, everything is just amazing. Bravo!
Author's reply
Hi Earlinde. I'm glad you like this story. As far as I know there aren't any stories about the Valar on the net (or at least not very good ones, IMO) which is why I wrote my own, especially dealing with Námo. Thanks for letting me know who much you enjoy this story. I really appreciate it. If you want more Valar you can also read my "Elf, Interrupted" series which features all of the Valar at one point or another through the story of Glorfindel, Finrod and other elves in Aman during the Second Age.
Kitty
· 18 August 2008
· Chapter 35: The Price of Victory
The Valar and Maiar will be busy for a while with cleaning up this mess. It is really sad how much damage Melkor and his minions left :(
I was so glad that Námo was able to help Ancalequirindë; he seems to have known instinctive what he had to do. It was easy to see in *this* Námo the future Lord of Mandos who has to care for the fëas of the dead. And he found an interesting task for her :)
But I expect him to have a few words with Irmo and Estë about what they can or can not talk in the hearing of injured people!
Author's reply
They will just get the mess from one war cleaned up before the next war comes, but that's the way it is.
I'm sure Námo had a few words with his brother and Estë about proper procedures around their charges. They're all still learning their roles and it will take time for them to get it right.
Tari`
· 18 August 2008
· Chapter 16: Námo's Homecoming
This chapter is what being a family is truly all about. The love, comfort, protection, understanding and patience are all the ways we should treat each other. Playtime never hurts either.
True evil can have a devastating effect on the recipient. A strong network of family and friends can all help to heal the wounded soul with the help of Atar.
Namo will be something else when the healing is completed; still mischievous I hope.
Author's reply
And here's another that I missed. Blast! Anyway, it's very true what you say about what family is truly all about, Tari, and we see it here in this chapter.
6336
· 18 August 2008
· Chapter 35: The Price of Victory
Seems the Valar are doing a little damage asesment and coming to some decisions as to what needs to be done.
Tulkas is being shown how to get around and Namo is doing what he prefers to do, or will when he becomes Lord of Mandos, consoling, a lot of people forget that one of his titles is Consoler (I don't know the Quenya, it's in one of your stories, somewhere!)I think he much prefers that role to being Doomsman!
Glad to see you back, I was running out of things to reread!
More please,
Lynda
Author's reply
Consoler is Námo's favorite role over those of Judge and Doomsman. We see him here beginning to claim that role for himself. Vairë also shows a compassionate spirit that easily matches that of Námo which is why they make a great couple.
Larner
· 18 August 2008
· Chapter 35: The Price of Victory
Tulkas is quite the character, obviously. Now, to repair what can be repaired, and let the Maiar who were injured heal as they can. And just their presence has helped many begin to heal--that is good.
Author's reply
Yes, Námo is beginning to come into his own as the Comforter and Consoler, the role he prefers over all the others that are his to be had.
Kaylee
· 18 August 2008
· Chapter 35: The Price of Victory
Ah, so Aulë is going to rebuild his world. Good, good. He does need his forge. *hugs Aulë* And it's good to see that Ancalequirindë isn't fading anymore...She reminded me of Lindorillë for a while there. I'm glad Námo and Vairë were able to help her. Irmo and Estë really need to watch what they say around the Mayar. *sighs* I wouldn't be surprised if Námo had...words with his brother about that.
And of course it's good that Tulkas is finally there to help! Yay for Tulkas!
~Kaylee
*GLAD that you have returned from the Void, Meldonya!!!*
Author's reply
I'm sure Námo had more than a few words with both Irmo and Estë about being careful of what they say around their charges. They are all still learning their roles so there are bound to be mistakes along the way until they 'get it right'. *grin* Glad you liked this chapter. Thanks for reviewing.
Nieriel Raina
· 18 August 2008
· Chapter 35: The Price of Victory
Oh it's so nice to have you near an internet connection again. I was going through withdrawal! :)
Wonderful chapter. It's so nice to see Námo acting like the Vala we see in Elf Interrupted. And how appropriate for he to be the one to one day comfort the dead. Such heart he has!
Nice peaceful interlude before more Melkor wreaks more havoc, I'm sure. Love it!
Author's reply
Many of the Valar (and Maiar) are beginning to claim the roles that we know them for at this time as Arda is being prepared for the Children. Unfortunately, it's not all a bed of roses yet and there is much havoc for Melkor to wreak.
Tari
· 11 August 2008
· Chapter 14: Deep Structures of Pain and Terror
The Maia get into trouble? No way. Tehehehehehe. Námo’s feeling a little playful hmmmm. That’s a good sign.
I don’t think things will ever be the same for Námo and Irmo, I think they will be better. The stars rejoiced as they do when one of us has been lost but now is found.
Tari
Author's reply
We always want things to be "as they were" but of course that cannot happen. That doesn't mean that relationship are changed for the worse; often they are matured to a deeper level than could have been possible if certain things had not happened. This is the situation with Námo and Irmo. And the stars do indeed rejoice.
Tari
· 8 August 2008
· Chapter 13: Playing in the Tenth Dimension
“Námo! You come back here this instant!" Vairë fairly screamed.” I can just see her stamping her foot in frustration. LOL
Irmo is behaving like a human child having a tantrum when it can’t have it’s own way. Námo reminds me a bit of Glorfindel, always on the run.
This was so much fun to read. I love it that the Valar can be like children at times, even to the point of playing hide and seek. Who wants to grow up totally anyway. Not me.
Tari
Author's reply
The Valar are still "young" here... more like precocious adolescents than adults at this stage though they are beginning to "grow up". Namo of course has regressed to an even earlier stage as a coping mechanism. I think his own experiences will help pave the way for how he deals with the fear of Elves who come to Mandos.
Tari
· 4 August 2008
· Chapter 12: Finding Námo
This was such fun to read. However, I would like to know how the Valar finally found Namo.
Author's reply
They followed the butterflies of course....
Tari
· 30 July 2008
· Chapter 11: For Beauty Is Nothing But the Beginning of Terror
Silky voice? Shades of Saruman. Melkor is hideous and I can’t wait to find out how Namo escapes his clutches.
Acairis giving Melkor a look of pure hatred makes me also wonder why she is even there with him.
Now I know how he is rescued. How did Manwe and the others even find Namo? The poor thing; does he not know that no one can hide from Iluvatar? But deep inside he does know and turns to the Master Healer for help.
Tari
Author's reply
Hi Tari. Yes, Melkor is indeed a piece of work and quite hideous here. Acairis both loves and hates Melkor as evil always hates the obhect of its loves. Námo is in that state where he thinks that he is cut off from Atar because of what is happening to him, but he will learn that in such situations that is when Atar is closer than ever. In spite of feeling cut off though he does still love and trust Atar and that is why he is able to turn to him at the end.
Illuvindeur
· 30 July 2008
· Chapter 999999: Character List
Best fanfiction I have ever read. This story I will read over and over again. Had me in the end when Tulkas comes alas. I don't think there is a better story out there. Please, keep writing.
Author's reply
Thanks, Illuvindeur. I really appreciate your letting me know how much you are enjoying this story. There will be a slight delay before I can get the next chapter up as I'm presently traveling, making my way across Asia and Europe via the Trans-Siberian railway. I'm writing this response in Moscow. I'll be updating with a new chapter in a couple of weeks once I get to my ultimate destination in Germany. So keep your eyes open. *grin*