The Wars of the Valar by Fiondil
Agape4Gondor · 27 March 2008 · Chapter 24: Feint and Counterfeint
Great chapter - sitting on pins and needles waiting to see if Melkor was truly tricked and what the blazes has happened to Namo!
Author's reply
Glad you liked this chapter, Agape. I'm sure Námo and Vairë won't let themselves be captured by Melkor a second time, but we'll have to wait and see.
Kaylee Tonks-Lupin · 27 March 2008 · Chapter 24: Feint and Counterfeint
*Grin* Glad to see Namo and Vaire finally getting some alone time *chuckle* Ooooh, bad Melkor! VERY BAD MELKOR!!!!!!! *glares at him* I am glad Manwe and the others got him!!!! And if he says anything about Varda again...*shudders at the thought of what Manwe would do* Poor Arien, being deceived that way and now her pretty star's gone nova too :( Lots and lots and lots of exciting stuff happened in this chapter and I love the story so far *wants more* *bounce* I especially like how the Maiar...Um, Mayar, and everyone counted to one billion :D ^_^ Silly Namo and Vaire, they were supposed to be hiding! and yet they could be seen from so far away even with a dust cloud in between *tsk tsk* silly Namo for changing the rules. still, Vaire being 'kidnapped' by Namo is better than when she was kidnapped before! ~Kaylee!!! *squeefully awaiting more*
Author's reply
I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter a lot, Kaylee. Yes, Melkor is very bad and evil but we know he gets his in the end anyway, so that's all right. Nämo is always changing the rules, that's why he's Námo and kidnapping Vairë we saw was the best thing, keeping her away from Acairis. I'm sure Vána will comfort Arien and she will see that it was all for the greater good of protecting the real Atháraphelun from Melkor and we know that eventually she becomes the ruling intelligence of Anar, so that works out as well, too. We'll find out what Námo and Vairë (and the Máyar) are up to in the next chapter. Thanks for reviewing.
6336 · 27 March 2008 · Chapter 24: Feint and Counterfeint
Well let's hope that Namo remembers what he is supposed to do, I think he is off 'entertaining' Vaire some where and has become a little preoccupied! Ah,young love!:<) More please, Lynda
Author's reply
As to that, we'll just have to wait and see.... *grin*
Larner · 27 March 2008 · Chapter 24: Feint and Counterfeint
Well, the attack has come, and we have a bit of a cliffhanger here, don't we? Heh! Now, to see what Vaire and Namo do to Melkor's forces. And have we seen the birth of Ungoliant here? I always have seen her as having served Vaire and perhaps Irmo at one time or another. No, Namo--how will you punish your errant brother? Heh!
Author's reply
Not sure what Námo and Vairë are up to yet, but we'll find out soon. Whether Acairis eventually becomes Ungoliant remains to be seen, I think, though she is certainly a strong candidate for the role, isn't she?
Rhyselle · 27 March 2008 · Chapter 24: Feint and Counterfeint
Oooooh! I was sooooo not expecting what Namo's distraction would be. This read like riding a rollercoaster, one thing after another, vivid mental images, and bounding emotion throughout, with another little twist right at the end. I loved Vaire's reaction to Namo "kidnapping" her. And I'm so very glad he finally made the emotional connection and remembered all of what he felt for her. I laughed out loud when Maranwe told Namo and Vaire that they'd been visible even three star systems away through a dust cloud. Hee! The description of the events around the destruction of the false Atháraphelun was very vivid, and I must say that I wish that there were some way to put it on film or video with appropriate rousing soundtrack! Cowardly Melkor, lurking in the rear... I thought it very interesting that Manwe demonstrates that he is stronger than his fallen brother. Sometimes, evil seems so overwhelming that it appears that good cannot overcome it, but yet, there is strength in good that evil cannot recognize--and is surprised by it. So now we know what Melkor was up to in the stellar nursery... destabilizing one or more stars for this purpose. Kind of appropriate that he lost in the end thanks to his own tool being used against him. I have this mental image of Arien weeping because the star and the flat world were destroyed, and being comforted by Vana. And just what the heck is Namo (and Vaire) doing that is making him late to switch the variable? As always, well done!
Author's reply
There is certainly a great deal of emotion and action happening in this chapter, and no one was expecting Námo to abduct Vairë the way he did. *grin* I'm glad the description of the events around the destruction of the flat Athárahelun was vivid enough. I tried to make it vivid without going into a lot of detail. I figure most readers could fill in the picture with their own imagination. Good is not necessarily weaker than Evil, merely that Evil has no qualms about doing things Good would not, but Manwë is no wimp and he had everything planned to a nicety in this campaign. As to what Námo and Vairë are doing that is making him late to switch the variable... we'll find out in the next chapter. Thanks for reviewing. I'm glad you enjoyed the rollercoaster ride. *grin*
Kitty · 27 March 2008 · Chapter 24: Feint and Counterfeint
Ah, what an amusing temper trantrum! And for Melkor certainly believable, I’d say. You mean it was not planned that Námo decided to take Vairë with him? *grin* Sneaky Námo! And I absolutely love their conversation and kissing afterwards. Not to mention Maranwë telling them he could see them glow from three star systems away with a dust cloud in between *lol* Well, so far most of their plan seems to have worked – but what about Námo? Is he too distracted holding Vairë or has something bad happened again? Always these cliffhangers ... *grumble* ;-)
Author's reply
But if it weren't for the cliffhangers, why would you come back for more? LOL I actually did mean to continue the chapter with Námo and Vairë but realized that their part of the story would make the chapter longer than I wanted, so I decided to split the action between two chapters. I'll try not to keep you hanging in suspense too long. Glad you liked this chapter, anyway.
Ces · 27 March 2008 · Chapter 24: Feint and Counterfeint
It's nice to see the development of Námo. You always show his as so self-assured. Here we get to see his journey on how he acheived that goal. Zipping through the galaxy - it sounds so fun (the war notwithstanding!) Just think yourself somewhere and you're there. Melkor sounds like a nasty piece of work and it's always a pleasure to watch the downfall of someone like that. Can't wait to see his! Ces
Author's reply
I think it is interesting, knowing how self-assured Námo is in my other stories, to see how he grew into that self-assurance. That makes him a far more interesting character, IMO, and I think allows readers to see how he reacts in, say, Elf, Interrupted in a wholly different light. Tolkien states that the Valar and Maiar had the ability to think themselves anywhere in Eä instantly with a single thought. I sometimes which I had such power when I find the No. 2 bus crowded with people and I have groceries to carry. *grin* Melkor is indeed a nasty piece of work but the good news is we all know how he ends up. *grin*
Agape4Gondor · 21 March 2008 · Chapter 23: The First Council of Manwë
A lovely, lovely chapter made extra special by the ending. How pleased I am for Eonwe! As for Namo - I now see the wisdom of Manwe's actions and am humble and in awe of his wisdom. I had not thought of an unknowing slave. Very possible and hideous to think it. Yet, I rejoiced at the joy and pride of his People as Namo was once again fully returned to his family! Thanks for a glorious chapter. And a great tale.
Author's reply
I know many readers were upset with Manwe and his supposed cruelty and abuse towards Namo but as you can see I couldn't give the game away too soon. I'm glad you understand why Manwe acted as he did. It could not have been easy for him or anyone else wondering if their beloved brother was already Melkor's slave even unknowingly. They had no idea just what Melkor did to Namo and so they had to take every precaution until they knew for sure. And I thought it would be fun to show how Eonwe became Manwe's Herald and Captain of the Host of the Valar. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. Thanks for reviewing.
Hildigrim · 19 March 2008 · Chapter 23: The First Council of Manwë
The penultimate paragraph of the chapter deserves explicit approbation. There is an arresting contrast in response content -- in both "...and any failings with forgiveness" and the explicit trusteeship/servanthood of the pledge *recipient* -- between it and essentially every other such Arda pledge/response pairing I can remember reading. (For examples, I cite the one in Chapter 9 of this story, to say nothing of the canonical one between Pippin and Denethor.) On a less serious note, you may count me among the "many people" who would dispute the inventive pairings in Kaylee's earlier chapter review. For example, quoting from http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf/elbereth.htm -- A Elbereth Gilthoniel o menel palan-diriel, le nallon O Elbereth Starkindler from firmanent gazing afar, to thee I cry sí di-nguruthos! A tiro nin, Fanuilos! here beneath death-horror! O look towards me, Everwhite! I don't see Hera (!) getting that kind of 911 call.
Author's reply
Different pledges require different responses, but certainly, the Valar-Maiar relationship is based on love rather than on duty or even fear. One would hope that any 'pledge' between us and God works the same way. While among humans it might be necessary to punish failings in fulfilling a pledge, rather than offering forgiveness, that certainly should not be the response of the Divine. Also, don't forget that Eönwë has already pledged himself to Manwë, so there is no need to explicate that further in this pledge. And I don't see Hera getting that kind of 911 call either. LOL For that matter, I don't see too many of the 'gods' either getting or responding to such a call.
Radbooks · 15 March 2008 · Chapter 23: The First Council of Manwë
Wonderful chapter! It was good to see some of Manwe's reasons about things. I hadn't considered that Namo might actually still be under Melkor's sway even without him knowing it himself. Manwe is so right, he is free, though he still has a long way to go to be healed. Poor Namo. What a horrible thing Namo has to do when they switch the beacon! To be off by himself with just his Maya! Even though it all makes sense, it's still a lot to ask of him. Again, poor Namo. The Council was a very good scene. I LOVED Irmo in it! His line about how they could control the Maya with a single negligent thought was priceless. And the way the Maya reacted was certainly appropriate. Hopefully, things will change now... Looking forward to the next chapter... I think. It depends what happens to Namo! *grin*
Author's reply
Many readers were down on Manwë because of what they considered his abusive treatment of Námo, but I hope I've disspelled that idea in this chapter where Manwë and Varda explain why they did what they did. I'm sure when Námo fled from his rescuers there was some doubt in Manwë's mind as to where Námo's loyalties now lay, so he had to move cautiously untl he was sure. The ambush and Námo's reaction showed that Melkor had not yet suborn him and now he truly is free of Melkor's influence even if he doesn't really accept that right now. That will come in time. I'm glad you liked the Council scene. I thought Irmo's line was priceless too and it wasn't a threat, merely a statement of fact, a fact that I think many of the Máyar had forgotten or refused to acknowledge. I'm sure the Máyar who were at the Council will have plenty of things to say to their fellows about it, which is what the Ayanumuz want. And obviously things do change, as we don't see this type of hierarchical system existing later on in my Elf, Interrupted story. Námo's not out of the woods yet, but he's more prepared for the next step than he or anyone else (except possibly Atar) realize. Thanks for reviewing. I really appreciate it.
Kitty · 15 March 2008 · Chapter 23: The First Council of Manwë
Now I'm a bit torn - my mind understands that Manwë had to make sure Námo isn't under Melkor's influence. But my feelings don't quite agree and still insist it was mean to distrust him and put him through this. Anyway, I am glad they have solved the matter. Ah, nice to see Olórin, Aiwendil and Pallando here! Though luckily no Curumo - I'd always be suspicious, I fear ;-) While most of the other names are familiar enough to know they're absolutely trustworthy. taking care with his thoughts and being as precise as possible so there was no mistaking his meaning Hm ... why do I get the feeling that changed quite a bit in Middle-earth, where he appeared to be rather cryptic? The Máyar still have to learn a few things, it seems. But I am sure the Ayanumuz will see to that. And Eönwë has been promoted! Should I be glad or feel sorry for him? *grin* Now I am waiting anxiously what will happen next.
Author's reply
I'm sure many people will be of two minds about Manwë here, but too much is at stake for them not to be suspicious and needing to know for sure that Námo hadn't been suborned by Melkor. So, however hard it might have been on Námo it was a necessary precaution. Luckily, as you say, the situation as resolved itself. Well, Olórin and Aiwendil are at the Council, but Pallando is not, even though he is a Chief Máya. And I figured there had to be some basis for Curumo's jealousy of Aiwendil that would have had its roots in the distant past rather than being a recent development when it comes time for the Order of the Istari to be founded. Now, while Olórin may have been precise with his language, Gandalf would probably find it necessary to be cryptic at times, since he could never reveal his true nature and powers. Such a need would not be present among his own kind and especially among his Masters. As for EÖnwë's promotion... apparently he seemed to accept his new duties and obligations with aplomb since he was never "demoted" *grin. Thanks for reviewing.
Kaylee · 14 March 2008 · Chapter 23: The First Council of Manwë
I'm finally caught up and might I just say...I. LOVE. NAMO. I feel SO bad for the way Namo was treated by Melkor all those times and I have a feeling life won't get any easier for my favorite (future) Doomsman, but at least he has Vaire to help him, and of course Irmo and Nienna and Manwe and Orome and well...all of them, lol. Also I have to say the flat world intrigues me. I would have been amused if it was placed on the backs of four elephants on the back of a giant turtle, but *winks* wrong fandom. *chuckles* Also I don't think the Discworld was square, as it's a *disc*, so I know you're not attempting a crossover (lol) although I have to wonder just what's going to happen to the flat world. Ten planets...Ten. *blinks* We only have nine...or if you listen to what was decided a couple years back, eight *rolls eyes* plus a bunch of new dwarf planets. *feels sorry for Pluto, especially since it would be "Namo's planet" if I parallel Greek gods and the Valar* Huh...Paralleling Greek gods and the Valar, huh? ^_^ Manwe = Zeus Varda = Hera Ulmo = Poseidon Aule = Hephaestus Yavanna = Demeter Namo = Hades Vaire = The Fates, I suppose? Irmo = Morpheus Este = Hestia Nienna = Niobe (Ok, well, she wasn't a goddess, but she weeps incessantly and I'm having a hard time matching this one. Help?) Tulkas = Ares Nessa = Terpsichore (muse of dance) or possibly just all the Muses Orome = Pan Vana = Persephone These equivalents are based on personality and how suitable characteristics are to each other...I know Namo and Vana aren't espoused, lol. (Although I tend to see them as rather alike what with Vana being "Ever-Young" and Namo liking to "play" ever so much!) Okay Fiondil, before I write a review as long as your chapters I'll shut up and stop rambling...*grin*...just ask Rhyselle, I go off on tangents a lot...But I loved this and I've learned more about astronomy from you than I ever did in school, yay! ^_^ Write more soon PLEASE!!!!! *waiting for EI 2 rather excitedly as well* ~KAYLEE!!!!!~
Author's reply
Well, as for ten planets, you'll have to wait and see. I'm sure you will find it amusing when you see where I put it. Your list of equivalants between the Greek pantheon and the Valar is rather.... creative. *grin* I'm sure many people would dispute some of your pairings. I find the idea of Nienna constantly weeping rather silly myself, and so far I haven't had do anything like that in any of my stories. Anyway, as to the fate of the flat Arda.... that will soon be revealed. And I'm glad you're learning astronomy from this story. It does make it more fun doesn't it? I will begin posting EI2 sooner than you think, so keep your eyes peeled to the computer screen. *grin* Thanks for reviewing. I'm glad you've been enjoying this tale.
Larner · 14 March 2008 · Chapter 23: The First Council of Manwë
I was so glad to see Olorin and Aiwendil in there! Yeah, Team! And Namo is now free, whether or not he yet appreciates it emotionally. He heals apace now. I do understand his reluctance to put his own folk in danger; but if Manwe's certain he can now successfully stand up to Melkor--well, that's good enough for me!
Author's reply
Thanks, Larner. I'm glad you approve of this chapter. I thought it was time to bring in Olórin and Aiwendil and we may see more of them in subsequent chapters (and unfortunately, that means probably more of Aulendil and Curumo as well). Anyway, Manwë has every confidence that Námo can stand up against Melkor and his horde. Now we just need to convince Námo of that. *grin*
Agape4Gondor · 13 March 2008 · Chapter 22: Diversions and Ambuscades
I am having the darndest time with Manwe! I don't understand how on earth he could even consider this line of abuse - yes abuse! - that is his tactic with Namo! Using threats and manipulation. Namo is the victim - one doesn't go about threatening punishment or demotion or saying he is 'disappointed' with Namo - and for what!?! - for being a victim! You give solace and comfort. I just can't accept Manwe's tactics - even if Namo has to be strong - for we all know Melkor will attack again!
Author's reply
And Melkor did attack again, and Manwë knew it would happen sooner rather than later. I think the fact that Manwë and Oromë discussed tactics ahead of time and came to an agreement says much for Manwë's abilities as a leader, planning ahead for contingencies, hoping that Námo would come to healing on his own but knowing that he might need to be pushed a bit. Manwë knows that they are on a schedule here and he needs Námo and needs to know that he can trust him at the last. I'm sure that his decisions concerning Námo have not come easily for him, but he's willing to take responsibility for his decisions as any leader worth his salt should.
Agape4Gondor · 13 March 2008 · Chapter 21: Disappointment
This was an extremely hard chapter to read and I'm sure to write! I liked the fact that Manwe does not tell the other Valar's Mayar to do things - but asks the Vala to tell them. Nice touch. I almost forgive him for how he's been towards Namo. At least until this latest ploy!!!! I snorted at derision at whomever the Vala was that suggested Namo should be 'put' away...... Where is my sword when I need it????
Author's reply
Like many people who've not "been there, done that", even the Valar are clueless about what Námo is or has experienced and can't quite understand why he just doesn't "get better". It's as much a learning experience for them as it is for Námo and a necessary experience for when dealing with the Children, although they don't realize it yet.
Agape4Gondor · 13 March 2008 · Chapter 20: Designing Worlds
I envy the Valar in their romp through the stars and different worlds that abound. The beauty, as you write it, is incredible. I want to go with them, visit these places. And Namo wanting to see something that gave him joy and hope... and yet not finding them... It is sad. One can never go back, can one?
Author's reply
No, one can never go back, but the beauty remains, even if only in memory and sometimes that's the best any of us can hope for.
Agape4Gondor · 13 March 2008 · Chapter 19: On Constructing Atháraphelun
Beautiful chapter. My heart broke as Namo tried to speak Melkor's name. How incredibly wounded he is. I know he will become strong and one of the best of the Valar - but still, this struggle is so heart-rending!
Author's reply
All struggles are heart-rending, but they do make us stronger, even if we don't think so.
Agape4Gondor · 13 March 2008 · Chapter 18: Redeeming the Oath
Sorry I'm so late reviewing - and I will be gone for a week - so I must get something written at least. I'm miffed, very miffed, at Manwe's threats. They ill become him! Demeaning Namo is not the answer, as Manwe's states, but that is exactly what would happen, and probably worse, if he demoted him. *shudders* I liked the ceremony - glad everyone is back where they belong!
Author's reply
Sometimes being the leader sucks when you have to make the hard decisions and sometimes being mean is part of it. Manwë is giving Námo a wake-up call here and as harsh as it might seem, it's really one aspect of tough-love that few of us want to look at.
Nieriel Raina · 12 March 2008 · Chapter 22: Diversions and Ambuscades
Well, I'd rather leave a longer review, but at this point, I better just review or it'll never get done! Chilling! I wasn't expecting Melkor quite so soon, but suppose it was inevitable he would pull something like this. I admire Oromë for fighting against him to protect Námo! *cheers the Huntsman* And I was so relieved when the others showed up so quickly. The appearance of Balrogs was quite disturbing. But the thing that stood out to me the most was the fact that while Námo was terrified, he was also pissed as heck. *grin* Good to see that anger coming out! Now he is ready to take the next step in healing though I know it will still be painful. Hopefully Vairë can help him. I love this story. It's one of my favs of yours. Great job! NiRi PS - now that you've shown you can write decent romance, I want a Námo/Vairë *ahem* scene! Please? *grin*
Author's reply
It's long enough, so don't worry about it. *grin* Yes Melkor's appearance was chilling and you knew he would make an appearance soon enough. And it was just what Námo needed, though he did not realize it, to allow his righteous anger to come to the fore. All his anger at this point has been self-directed, now it's directed towards the person to which it should be directed: Melkor. Now the healing will continue apace, though, as you say, it will still be painful at times. As for the Námo/Vairë *ahem* scene... you'll have to wait until they're properly espoused for that. *grin* Glad you are enjoying this story. Thanks for your encouragement.
Agape4Gondor · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 17: Adjustments
I would have found it to be incredibly difficult to be one of Namo's people at this time. Reminds me of losing a loved one to Alzheimer's or dementia. Very sad, difficult and heart-rending...
Author's reply
It would be very hard for Námo's People to understand why their Lord is acting the way he is at this time; they really have no comprehension, except intellectually, in what form Melkor tortured him. At least, they are willing to "play the game" according to Námo's (and Manwe's) rules for now and that can only make the bond between Námo and his People stronger.
Edlyn · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 22: Diversions and Ambuscades
One word: Wow! Edlyn (who is utterly incoherent at the power of this chapter)
Author's reply
Now don't be shy. Tell me what you really think. *LOL* I hope to see a proper review whenever you become coherent again. Glad you found this chapter so powerful.
Larner · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 22: Diversions and Ambuscades
So, the attack was not a total surprise. And Namo fought! I am glad. And I'm glad the response team was so quick this time.
Author's reply
I'm sure Manwë was waiting for such an attack to occur, though he would not know just when it would happen and I think the response was so quick because Námo called on Atar for help first.
Radbooks · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 22: Diversions and Ambuscades
Oh, well done. Such a mix of emotions in this chapter! I loved Namo and Orome getting the planet system just right and then their talk about what 'might' be done to Namo in the future. It's all so frightening for him - and embarrassing, I'd imagine. Orome was right to tell him not to worry about the things that may or may not happen in the future, but that is so hard to do. The discussion between Manwe, Varda, Irmo, and Nienna was interesting and I felt so for Namo's brother and sister. The most telling thing for me was how steadfast Manwe was... he never changed from the steady blue that he was. He knew what needed to be done and while he was listening to Irmo and Nienna, he wasn't going to change from what was best for Namo. That's a comforting thing. Then when Melkor and his 'henchmen' appeared I just shuddered. I KNEW he wasn't going to get away with it again, but still! I was so glad when Namo cried out for his Atar, it was the best thing he could do under the circumstances. I thought back and remembered how Namo had felt so alone and cut off from his Atar the first time he was confronted by Melkor. When I first read the sentence about 'bright beings' showing up my first thought was, 'oh, here comes Tulkas!' *grin* Looking forward to more...
Author's reply
Thanks, Radbooks. Yes, there are quite a mix of emotions in this chapter. I like to think that Oromë was already doing what he and Manwë had disccussed between them earlier, though we don't learn about it until Manwë is speaking to Irmo and Nienna. Manwë is indeed steadfast in his resolve and takes seriously his role as the Elder King under Ilúvatar. And being the oldest amongst them, he has had more time to mature. Melkor was unexpected, even by me, so I was very glad when Námo decided to call on Atar and deny Melkor. At that point Námo was taking charge of his own healing and not allowing Melkor to rule him. He's not out of the woods yet, but in that one instance he's advanced much further than any of them thought he would for some time yet. Tulkas is coming... I promise, but just not yet. *grin*
Ces · 27 February 2008 · Chapter 22: Diversions and Ambuscades
It's absolutely fascinating how you develop Namo from the timid, scared character we are seeing so far into the confident Valar we see in your later stories. Calling for Atar - who doesn't do that in their deepest time of need? And yet he manages to take his first steps towards not letting Melkor intimidate him any longer. Your descriptions of space are so very realistic and come to life. I giggle at the thought of those two playing with planets! You have me on the edge of my seat with this story. Great chapter! Ces
Author's reply
Hi, Ces. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. Yes, Námo is finally taking control of his own healing instead of Melkor controlling him through his fear. And I try to make my descriptions of space as realistic as possible, using the photos provided us by NASA and the Hubble telescope. Eä after all is our universe so using what we know of the cosmos as the backdrop to the story just makes sense. I giggle at the thought of those two playing with planets! My beta compared it to two kids playing with marbles! LOL Thanks for reviewing.
Rhyselle · 27 February 2008 · Chapter 22: Diversions and Ambuscades
Wow... I can see why you recommended reading it with a stuffed toy. My blood went cold as Melkor and his minions appeared. *Shudder* No stuffed hedgehog to cuddle for comfort but I do have a lot of dark chocolate and cocoa to drink. Wow--Orome fighting Melkor... my mental image of that is.. Wow... I should have known that Manwe had been planning ahead, but I can understand the upset displayed by Nienna and Irmo. I do think that Orome would have helped Namo even without Manwe's asking him to do so, however. The thing that got me most was Namo screaming "ATAR!" It just hit me so hard, the impact of his reaching for his (and our) Father in his moment of greatest need. In a world where it is pounded into us that we MUST do everything ourselves before we even think of asking for help from others, it is sad that a lot of people wouldn't think to call for Atar's help first. I include myself in that statement--although I'm working hard on changing that. Now that I've commented on what I felt strongest about, I have to say that I really enjoyed watching Namo and Orome with the planetary system. Namo tweaking the orbits of the two smaller planetoids so they'd balance against the larger one reminded me of my younger autistic son's getting his train layout just right. *grin* And I really enjoyed seeing Orome's skills developing as he worked in concert with Namo to deal with the pockets of chaos. I also thought Manwe's place for reflection was very appropriate! :) Even before you named it in the author's note, I recognized it from your description. Thanks for another great chapter on this very special fic!
Author's reply
When I started this chapter, it had no title (very unusual with me) and I had no clue until it happened that Melkor and his goon squad were going to ambush Námo, so it was as much a shock to me as it was to you. Námo screaming for Atar just seemed so right and I suspect that it was that call for help that brought help so quickly and decisively. And Námo's "NEVER AGAIN!" is most likely the first step towards full healing, as he takes control rather than allowing even the subconscious memories of Melkor control him. Manwë, in this chapter, is beginning to show himself as Atar's vice-gerent (and yes, that really is a word that comes down to us from the 16th century and I have no idea why Tolkien used that word rather than the more normal "vice-regent"). He, himself, is learning that there will be times when he will have to make hard (and unpopular) decision concerning his People, including the other Ayanumuz. I suspected the entire conversation with Irmo and Nienna was to allow them to voice their own concerns and perhaps lead them towards the same conclusions he to which he'd already come so that there would be no sense of him "lording" over them or their brother. Cagey, that Manwë. *grin* Anyway, when I was trying to find an appropriate site for their meeting and saw the photos of the Eagle Nebula, I just knew that was the place. *grin* Glad to see you recognized it even before you saw the note. I'm happy to see my description was clear enough and did the photos justice. Thanks for reviewing.