Raksha The Demon · 13 June 2010 · Chapter 1: The Imperishable Flame
Quite a powerful story - I love that attention is paid here to the long-suffering moms of Middle-earth, especially to Emeldir, who rarely gets any attention in fanfic. Her farewells to husband and son are just heartbreaking, and the entire clan breaking up under the shadow of Morgoth, while she still resolves to fight on, evokes pity and admiration.
Well done!
Author's reply
Thanks! I am glad you enjoyed it, despite its less-than-pleasant theme. And I am flattered that you said it was quite a powerful story. LOL I did not expect such comment, truth be told. It was a pleasant surprise. Thank you.
The May theme for the contest was indeed "Mothers." Somehow, when brainstorming for it, Emeldir popped up into my mind. Because Teitho is for Lord of the Rings stories - and those which include Aragorn and/or Legolas - I had to incorporate the idea with something following the rules of the contest. I came up with Gilraen, then, as her tragedy was the closest I could find within the LotR framework. The link between the two women is up to readers' perception and imagination. ;)
But regardless, I agree that long-suffering mums in Arda - and many women there, actually - do not yet get the appreciation they deserve in fan-fiction world; and Emeldir, especially, is much outshone by her husband and son despite her own toils and hardships. (LOL Someone said I have the knack for little-explored characters and scenes. Sometimes I agree with her, however hesitant, like now.) I am glad that you enjoyed her character, and relieved that apparently I managed to write about her husband and son rather well. (I was indeed aiming for it... I nearly cried when I was writing the story.)
Thank you for reading and reviewing! Your comments (and compliments) are much appreciated.
- Rey
Author Reply: Thank you for nominating this story to this year's MEFAwards, Raksha! I am honoured - (And, truth be told, flattered...)
- Rey