Reviews (1,565)

Larner · 24 November 2009 · Chapter 85: On the Way to Angobel

They definitely need some intervention on the island so as to get all cooperating instead of each faction suspecting all the others. Excellent dealings with the archers.

Hel · 24 November 2009 · Chapter 85: On the Way to Angobel

Maybe Lord Irmo should open a branch of Lorien on Tol Eressea. Looks like there are a lot of elves in need of help. Until then maybe Morcocáno and his wife should make a long visit to Lorien. He fought in Beleriand at the end of the first age and still he ignores a very direkt and clear declaration of the Valar. Not to mention that he denies reality in favour of his view of how the world should be. I wonder, if they really put the miners on a ship and try to sail them to Ennorath the Valar would let them. Eönwë´s little trick with the weapons was a nice touch. I like Brethorn´s wisdom about Morgoth´s hold on the elves. In the end you could say that he is still influencing (directly of indirectly through their experiences)the thoughts, feelings and deeds of a lot of people if not all no matter what race including the Valar.

Sunny · 23 November 2009 · Chapter 85: On the Way to Angobel

On second thoughts, maybe Morcocáno needs to go and stay with Nienna for a while. _She_ would certainly be able to straighten him out.

6336 · 23 November 2009 · Chapter 85: On the Way to Angobel

Methinks that Guthalion is not the only ellon who needs to go to Lorien for healing, Morcocano could do with a few sessions with the good Dr.! I wonder if Arafinwe's wondering if this progress was such a good idea after all. I think in the long run it will work out for all, Toll Eressiens and Amanians both. More please, Lynda

ellie · 23 November 2009 · Chapter 85: On the Way to Angobel

Isn't Alassiel your beta? You shot your beta???? What? Did she miss one too many typos or something so you are punishing her by shooting her namesake in the story? Poor Alassiel...the least you could have done was give her some other hot guy elf to look after her once Sador left. For shame! You also shot Arafinwe. The Noldoran??? Is this pick on the scions of Finwe week in your stories? First Finrod with the broken leg in Diaries and now his poor ata. For shame! Also, did Mr. M the elf whose name escapes me not learn the first time the maiar showed up and said that the former slaves were under the protection of the Valar? And his attack on the members of the Progress was supposed to help his own cause in what way? For shame for him! You know, the only ruling elf you haven't attacked yet is Ingwion. So, when does he get it? I'm glad he was able to do some good and show his worth to himself as much as to the others by catching the other archers. I hope he does feel that he truly belongs there now in his own right and not just as the rep for his atar. Oh, and did you go after Lindarion yet? I can't remember if he was with his atar when his unfortunate capture occurred. There! A long review from me for once. Don't worry, it probably won't happen again ...all of the kids fell asleep in the car on the way home and they are too groggy upon entering the house to argue with each other or ask anything of me yet.

Sunny · 23 November 2009 · Chapter 85: On the Way to Angobel

Just two chapters ago, Finrod promised that he would do all he could to help the former slaves. Last chapter he declared firmly that they were under his protection. (And we all know just how serious Finrod is about such things as oaths and promises, don’t we?) And here Morcocáno and his cohorts come with the express intent of ”cleansing” the island of ex-slaves (shades of the Ku Klux Klan!!?!) – and if the island isn’t "cleansed" by them being sent back to Middle-earth, he seems perfectly prepared to do it the other way. Makes me wonder if he wouldn’t deal similarly with other groups that he disapproves of... Not satisfied with this, Morcocáno and his allies have now physically attacked the visitors from Aman (and the ex-slaves) – even after three of the Valar made an appearance just to make it clear that the ex-slaves are under their protection, too. They are lucky that they didn’t actually manage to get anyone killed, but Arafinwë and Alassiel were both wounded – and evidently Alassiel came within a hair of dying. Which is not something that is likely to make Finrod feel particularly charitable. While nothing all that bad is likely to happen to Morcocáno and his friends – it can’t be worse than tending sheep for a couple of ages up around Formenos – though it wouldn’t surprise me if some of them won’t at some point feel that it would have been easier to just have to explain themselves to Námo. And some may feel so even now. One thing at least is fairly certain: Morcocáno’s political aspirations are now about as likely to get fulfilled as a pig is likely to sprout wings. And no pigs flew south for the winter this year either. Eönwë melting the pile of swords was a nice touch. :-) I find I am wondering just when and how those rumours about the ex-slaves started...

Sitara · 23 November 2009 · Chapter 85: On the Way to Angobel

"scowl" My patience seems to be starting to wear thinner and thinner. Morcocáno's problem was personal rather than political and his issue with the miners is pretty easy understandable, although not excusable, given his wife's past. Perhaps, I dare say, there is a connection between Morcocáno's wife and other slaves of Morgoth, for instance, she having a bad history with her former companions? But where is the real conspiracy, I'd like very much to know?! "pout" The real and subtle thing....which I may support, by the way. "lol" But for doing this, I really need to know more about the conspirators' goals and issues. In the meantime, I've a piece of advice for them: stop using people as pawns in you game and go straight "for the kill", so to speak. By the way, Brethorn is absolutely right. Are you completely sure he hasn't some Vanyarin blood in his veins? For, to me he seems to have the kind and noble spirit of the Vanyar more than other people. "lol"

Kitty · 23 November 2009 · Chapter 85: On the Way to Angobel

“You know if you do that she’ll never give up the power,” the young miner said with a laugh. “You’ll have to marry her just to get it back.” *lol* Do I detect blackmail material here? Liked it that Ingwion was the one to take action and did a good job on catching the archers and figuring out that it was only a distraction. “The only slaves I see, Morcocáno, are the ones facing me,” That's only too true, as was Brethorn's opinion Morgoth’s hold on the hearts of our people is more subtle than most care to acknowledge, I deem.. To me it seems obvious that Morcocáno and his people are more tainted than the miners. Only they don't want to admit it. You know, Fiondil, I had expected Morcocáno to cause trouble, but I certainly had not expected an outright attack. The kidnapping the former slaves tried was stupid, but that ambush and the following attack was even more stupid. I was really beginning to wonder if they would be crazy enough to attack Finrod and his friends to get at the miners when the Maiar turned up. They came at the right moment, no doubt - so at least no more blood was shed. Well, at least I think this incident should have given the former slaves some trust into the Amanians, after watching how Finrod and his friends stood up to Morcocáno, showing that he meant it that they are under his protection.

Kitty · 21 November 2009 · Chapter 84: Motives Explained

Hm ... I should probably think it nice of Morcocáno and his men that they came to the rescue, but somehow I get the feeling they would have gone much too far in punishing the kidnappers. That guy makes me somewhat uneasy, to be honest. Thorongorn seems to be more sensible and trustworthy. Anyway, it was great when not only Finrod and his friends stood up for the former slaves, but the Maiar as well and then three Valar turned up to drive the point home. The Avallonëans should think twice before they act against the people of Angobel now, or they would probably be in for a very nasty surprise ... Knowing the whole story now, I am glad the kidnappers are forgiven. They're already more than punished enough with their situation, and it is good to know that Finrod and the kings are now aware of the situation and will protect them. And I feel really sorry for Gurthalion. Poor guy, he needs the healing in Lórien. Badly. That much is obvious. It seems a good idea to send him with Laurendil. And Finrod already made sure the Lóriennildi are behaving better to their patients, so I hope it will really help him.

Agape4Gondor · 20 November 2009 · Chapter 74: On To Avallónë

Forgive the long delay in reviewing... finally back from the continent and getting my life back together and such... The picnic scene is delightful, the 'discourse' with Lindarion is illuminating, and the 'gleam' in Glorfindel's eye is disconcerting - but natural. Looking forward to more.

Larner · 19 November 2009 · Chapter 84: Motives Explained

And so more that was hidden has been exposed, and the Light shines the brighter on all. An interesting interlude!

Sitara · 19 November 2009 · Chapter 84: Motives Explained

I’m finally back from my trip to Hungary and I’m ready to review. So, another secret, carefully tucked under the blanked, was revealed by the Progress….The shunned were themselves shunning others, less fortunate than them. Well, today I’ve decided to keep my tongue in check for once.”grin” But Gilvagor is right and for the first time I'm willing to admit that this endeavour may be successful, in a certain way. However, it seems to me that the kings still haven’t reached the bottom of the pit, so to speak, meaning that neither the Nandor or the miners are likely to be the rumourmongers who started all this. And in my opinion, neither Morcocano has displayed the “must-have” trait to be involved in this; definitely, not as a mastermind, although personally I believe he isn’t involved at all. Strategy and cold-blood, and so far I didn’t see too much of these. Seldom it happens to me to have words of praise for the Valar. This time, however……it’d be only fair to admit that they truly acted like the Eru’s representants, appointed by Him to be the guardians of Arda. A bow for Námo, for Oromë and Tulkas, they deserved it this time. Maybe, in order to deserve more bows from me, they would want to interact further with the people of Angobel and show them how exactly are they welcome in Valinor? “grin”

Aiwen · 16 November 2009 · Chapter 84: Motives Explained

I am glad to see the former slaves of Angband. I've always felt sorry for them and wondered about their fate.

Tari · 16 November 2009 · Chapter 84: Motives Explained

The thought that the poor slaves might finally be able to put their hideous time as slaves behind them warms my heart. I wonder how long it will take them to reach that point. We all know there are some who do not like that idea and will continue to try to cause problems. Time will tell.

Sunny · 16 November 2009 · Chapter 84: Motives Explained

I wonder if some of Morcocáno’s attitudes comes from him seeing himself as the natural leader of whatever government will be set up on Tol Eressëa – a King in all but name? Or if not, as the appointed governor’s chief flunky? (With, of course the attendant wealth and power...) The trouble is, he seems to consider those outside his little circle of friends as being beneath his notice – certainly not something to bother the royal visitors with. It makes me wonder just _how_ many little bottles of nitroglycerine are buried here and there that he knows about – and loftily ignores – that are just waiting to be set off... I _really_ liked Námo’s answer to Morcocáno! I don’t think Finrod really _needed_ the Valar showing up – I’d say he is quite capable of stomping out attitudes such as Morcocáno’s on his own – but it certainly showed just whose corner the Valar were in. So part of the reason the people of Angrobel was fear of economic exploitation. It makes me wonder just how much they are exploited already – and generally disdained by the so-called leaders on the island – and I wonder just how deeply the fine Morcocáno has his fingers stuck in that particular pie. Poor Gurthalion. I don’t think anybody is going to be able to pry him away from his ada – which is what for all intents and purposes Marthchall is. And I suspect that the Lóriennildi are not going to have an easy time with the two of them. But I suppose they will heal – eventually. On an unrelated note – does the Muse think Gurthalion might have family living in Aman – and if so, what their reactions might be to having such a badly damaged relative – and moreover, one who is likely to violently reject them – at least for now?

utfrog · 16 November 2009 · Chapter 84: Motives Explained

More and more interesting - thanks

Hel · 15 November 2009 · Chapter 83: Rescue

I wonder if any of the elves of Angobel thought about the fact that if they kidnap other elves they only reinforce the prejudices of the other elves of Tol Eressea against them. That means if they would know about them. And one asks oneselve how many of this insular groups live on the island. If I must guess this will not be the last one the Amanians meet. But it´s sad that no-one gives them a chance to start a new life and helps them heal. But bigotry seems as common a streak among elves as it is among humans, dwarfs or hobbits. Luckily there are also people like Finrod and his friends. But why are the elves of Angobel are so afraid of the Maiar? Some of them were freed by them. One would think they would like or at least trust them to help them. And I wonder how much higher Beleg´s next shot would have gone...

Kitty · 14 November 2009 · Chapter 83: Rescue

What did these people hope to gain, other than the ire of the three kings of Eldamar? True. Save they want to disrupt the Progress and the attempt to include the Tol Eressëans more into the life in Aman, I can't see much sense behind this all. Hm ... Finrod has a point, I think. Sometimes it's quite odd when the Valar decide to intervene and when not. To be honest, I still think they are a bit too secretive and manipulative. You know, Fiondil, at first I was angry at the kidnappers. But now I feel only sorry for them. These poor Elves! It is so sad that their own fellows are treating them so hostily. What they now did was wrong, but somehow I understand that they acted out of desperation. I really hope Finrod and the kings will be able to help them to a better life and more acceptance.

Kitty · 14 November 2009 · Chapter 82: A Night of Crisis

Well, it seems I don't have to wait for them to reach Kortirion for problems to arise, huh? Knew it, things were going way too smoothly. Oh great, Glorfindel's special friends and swordbrothers among the Maiar are accompanying them! That should be enough to overwhelm the kidnappers, and maybe his friends get to see a little sparring when all is said and done? “Our esteemed captain is far too busy recording the oaths of Lord Laurendil and young Eärnur to help out.” *LOL* Now why am I not surprised? Though I'd have expected that Eönwë is able to multitask ;) I'm glad the Maiar came; their help is invaluable, as they know the place and I suppose few would dare to do anything stupid with them around.

Parmalokwen · 11 November 2009 · Chapter 83: Rescue

Wow. That was unexpected. And yet tragically unsurprising. Elves can be bigoted twits sometimes just like mortals, I'll never believe otherwise, (see also: Saeros, Thingol, and whoever told Bilbo that the elves of Mirkwood are "more dangerous and less wise,") and it's quite understandable that the people of Angobel are paranoid about their freedom. 6336 is right-- having met the Nandor and Mûlóldhil, the Avari would complete the list of Popularly Discriminated-against People with a Likely Grievance, whether they came through Mandos or by ship after changing their minds. Beleg has to be incredibly strong to hold a draw on Marthchall and count on his accuracy if he has to shoot, especially if he is using a heavy war bow. As an archer (not nearly as good as him, of course!) I would be very impressed to see it in real life. Good choice with Finrod as negotiator there-- he is indeed the person in that company most likely to have any credibility at all with the people of Angobel. The rest haven't had remotely similar experiences, except for Edrahil, who lacks Finrod's authority. Criticism: The phrase "mind you" comes off as a mistake, unless you intended to break the 4th wall. I found this address to the readers quite jarring.

Larner · 10 November 2009 · Chapter 83: Rescue

And these have suffered suspicion and degredation for so long? No wonder they are desperate!

6336 · 9 November 2009 · Chapter 83: Rescue

This is getting more and more complicated, now we have Molonoldor added to the mix! What's next, Avari and Moriquendi? I need a score card to keep up with you and Fiondil Muse! Well they got everybody back, safely! With Eonwe along to keep everything under control they should be able to get the situation sorted out. Once again an instance of people being taken advantage of. Honestly if Morgoth wasn't already in the Void I'd be with the Valar and Maia pushing him out there, if any of them want a break I'd be willing to spell one of them for a couple of hours! Lynda

Tari · 9 November 2009 · Chapter 83: Rescue

I can’t help but feel sorry for Marthchall and his people. Being held captive by Morgoth and forced to be slaves was horrible. That the other elves would not give them a chance was tragic. Hopefully Finrod can remedy this sad situation. This time he gets to be the healer. (At least I hope he does.)

Fantasia · 9 November 2009 · Chapter 83: Rescue

Well, everything has to be so complicated. I always believed that the elves will go to the West and will be happy ever after, it seems that they are not perfect at all, even with all the years for gaining experience. The island is really ready to burst, they need help. I hope that the elves from the main land understand that these elves are really scarred from war and need help. I think that Finrod should stay and lead them, more than anything, they need compassion. You play with my emotions very good, I was so angered against the kidnappers, but at the end, I feel so much compassion for them. Then, I was angered with the Aman elves, the other island elves and the Valars...but it is not really their fault, it is just a big mess, everybody have wounds that need to be heal...what a mess, I want to kill Morgoth.... This is a good example that in real life not everything is black and white; there is a lot of grey and different shadows of grey...

Sunny · 9 November 2009 · Chapter 83: Rescue

Good - they got the kidnapped ones back, and without anybody getting killed! I must say that Beleg definitely know how to place an arrow ;-) And now they have found _another_ faction - another ingredient to make the stew more interesting ;-) From what I gather, I suspect that healers is what this group needs most. Marthchall's very name is indicative of that. And I suspect there will be quite a few similar sorts of names in Angobel. I suppose Eönwë has finished with his scribing duties (for now) since he popped out to join in the fun.