Reviews (941)

6336 · 19 August 2011 · Chapter 101: The Lindaran in Valmar

Really Ingwion will you stop acting like a spoiled brat and learn some manners! Manwe is finally willing to speak to you and you go off in a huff, will you please make up your mind! Poor Camendil, I hope Irmo and Este will be able to help him. Arafinwe is still Manwe's Apprentice isn't he, even after all these yen? Huggs, Lynda

Sunny · 19 August 2011 · Chapter 101: The Lindaran in Valmar

Poor Cemendil - I hope he will be all right. Seeing Falmaron and all those other elves killed may have been worse for him than the injury he himself sustained. Considering how many unpleasant things have happened to Ingwion recently, it is certainly no wonder he is starting to have bad reactions. The news from Olwë was just one more thing added to his burden.

Sitara · 17 August 2011 · Chapter 69: A Deathness of Swans

Ah. So we’ve come to that. First, I must do what I have to and issue a warning that may be or not needed, but just in case. I don’t intend to prolong this more than strictly needed nor to allow my temper to run higher than usual but it may happen, as Olwë Lindaran has become the focus of my review. I’ve always wondered what would have happened had Tolkien gone off with his first mindset, the one described in HoME1, as regards the events of Alqualondë. Who would have been the ones to be called “Kinslayers”, I wonder? Or, rather, slayers of ellith and elflings, but, well, the point is moot. Another thing, I still didn’t understand how in Holy Blessed Realm did the Teleri manage to do such a good job and slay the most part of Fëanáro’s vanguard to such extent that Findekáno’s troops rushed to their aid without even trying to ascertain what was going on. “Slender bows” against “fell swords” in a close-handed fight? That must have been a turning point in the military history, I reckon. But, well, that would be more of a question for Tolkien and any writer could do only so much with the sources he has. "From you, perhaps," Olwë said, "but he has not robbed the Lindar." “bursting into laughter” That’s the spirit, Olwë. Oh, innocence of the Teleri! Let’s assume now that when the Teleri first came into Valinor carrying not too much with them and being in need of countless things, the Noldor would have offered them nothing as they wren’t themselves in need. Or, even better, following Olwë’s kingly logic, what if the Noldor would have offered them…some gems when they needed food and shelter? “I won’t give you my ships because it wasn’t you who taught me how to build them!” Fëanáro is not wrong here and the proof is that Olwë cannot gainsay him. The Teleri owed them, all things said and done. “I trust to Lord Ulmo and the other Powers that they will redress the hurts of Melkor and that this darkness that is more than loss of light will soon be lifted from our hearts and spirits.” How easy is to merely speak. It remains to be seen exactly how much trust would he put into the Valar once he was himself physically affected by said darkness. “the work of our hearts, whose like we shall not make again." You’ve just stooped at Fëanáro’s level, Olwë. Worse, even, for you have even less reason than him. You and your people have bound your hearts to ships, if you can realize. And, no, unless the Teleri were all struck with a collective case of amnesia, I cannot accept your hyperbole. The Silmarili couldn’t have been replicated, period. Whyever the Swanships could not? Were the Teleri running short of timber or sails or knowledge? Olwë…. Fëanáro had bound his heart to the fates of Arda, within which burned a part of the Imperishable Flame, whereas you bound your heart to a pile of white wood. If this be innocence……I should pity you, Olwë. I do not mean that Olwë’s guilt would diminish Fëanáro’s own. By now his quest was already a personal vendetta, in my opinion not having too much to do with either the Silmarili or Finwë’s death, but rather with inflicting upon the Valar (all of them) the pain he was himself suffering. The rest …collateral damage. It’s just I shall never see one side of the coin only; there were two parties, each of them with his own guit, a battle not a massacre, for, while the Noldor went there to steal ships, the Teleri fought and killed to keep them. Not to preserve their own lives, but to preserve their ships. That’s a world difference, in my opinion. And don't tell me, please, that Olwë's oath would come into play linked somehow to that Doom of Mandos according to which "all whom ye have slain" could plead in th behalf of the doomed ones. "sour face" Just what I needed...but as for you, dear Doomsman....."evil smirk"

Tari · 16 August 2011 · Chapter 98: Queen’s Gambit Declined

Nor should Ingalaurë lower himself to his uncle's level. I think he should treat Indoldo with kindess while still keeping him a prisoner. That would really blow the ellon's find. I know they will find the elleth, but where should prove to be interesting. I had to go to this chapter before commenting on the previous one because I couldn't wait to see what happened next. I like Manwe's "punishment" of the errant Maia. It was a very wise choice and I believe his point was well taken.

Sunny · 15 August 2011 · Chapter 100: On to Eldamas

Good thing that Ingwion and his friends eluded the searchers. And I suppose it was a good thing they did not go to the hunting lodge - I have a suspicion that it is the headquarters for those of Ingoldo's people who are not in Vanyamar. What is Olwë doing outside Alqualonde at this critical time? I would have thought he had his hands full with repairing the damage done by the Noldor, and dealing with the traumatized populace! But here he is in Eldamas - along with his heir and Eärwen. And the heri to the Ingaran is just coming in the door. Perhaps this is a sign that things are on the move?

Fantasia · 15 August 2011 · Chapter 100: On to Eldamas

At least, they are all save. I'm glad that they have found Intarion, do you think that he can make his Father repent? (Yeah right!) I would think that having Intarion back to the city will help to restore peace. The bad thing about all for this mess is the bad timing (I should say that it is a good timing for Ingoldo, all depends of whom POV) It is not the best time for Olwe or the Noldor to help Ingwion, they have a Kingdoms to rebuild as well.

6336 · 15 August 2011 · Chapter 100: On to Eldamas

Yep, I think I would like to go check out that hunting lodge too,if Ratty is using it, he has not taken pains to hide it! Is this the same lodge where he is captured in EI2? Oh, Ingwi that last thing you need is a weapon, they only lead to greif, look at Alqulonde. What a pleasent surprise for Ingwe to find Olwe and some of his family in Eldamas. Huggs, Lynda

Tari · 12 August 2011 · Chapter 96: Ingalaurë Takes Command

It seems the table has turned on Ingoldo, but will it work?

6336 · 12 August 2011 · Chapter 99: Allies Unlooked-for

Well things are finally starting to come together, and the Valar are starting to help, just a little. I like the way Ingalaure thinks, finding out who is loyal and who isn't is a good start to repair the damage Ratty has done. Looks like Ingwion and company are on the run, again! Waiting till Monday, Huggs, Lynda

Sitara · 12 August 2011 · Chapter 68: The Faring Forth

Well, it looks like everyone is readying his/her luggage and making plans for their future life in Middle-earth. Oddly enough, I saw no one thinking about how would they face Morgoth to exact revenge for their king’s murder and the theft of Silmarili. Even more oddly, I saw no big and bad Fëanorian prodding them in the small of their backs with a sword and urging them to take their place in the leaving crowd. That makes me wonder whence did come such cowardice and hypocrisy upon them only a little while later. And Manwë’s overly overly delayed reaction…frankly, I don’t think I know words harsh enough as to label it as it would deserve. “His counsel”! Was it not by “his counsel” , perhaps delivered with the same pomp by the same Herald, that the Eldar had come to Aman, where were promised a happy life under the Light of the Trees and, most of all, protection against the one who took their kin and tortured them beyond imagination? What was now left of all their promises, I wonder? He has now foretold them death and sorrow beyond imagination in Endorë? Wasn’t he the same one who promised them bliss in Aman? I may very well be a mean Fëanorian but Fëanáro was right to notice that, if they were promised death and horrors unspoken in Middle-earth, it would be only the natural course of life in a land without light and left at the tender mercy of Morgoth and his creatures. Aman, on the other hand, was the “Blessed Realm”. None of this was supposed to happen there. Death and undying sorrow in Aman is that had broken their world to pieces and shattered the Eldar’s trust in the guardians of Arda. What Manwë could not comprehend was that , if there was still a time for words, those words could have been only words of humbleness and repentance for the part the Valar had played in this tragedy. It may have been the only way to stop them from leaving; even perhaps Fëanáro. Fëanáro spoke the truth. Maybe even without knowing it, but every word was in the end fulfilled. I don’t think the Valar had even begin to fathom at that time how great was the fire set in him by the will of Eru Ilúvatar, neither the ways in which a Vala could be indeed overcome. I think Túrin would teach them a thing or two about this. But first they still have some growing-up to do. “chuckle” Evil shall arise indeed from all the Noldor's undertakings but, to quote Fëanáro a bit, through this evil they have the chance to acquire something real, something that was so far circumstantial, namely real trust. Oh, trust in the Valar, of course! "sour face" Whyever did Eru left those as his appointed guardians is beyond my ability to..."wandering off grumbling to herself"

Sitara · 12 August 2011 · Chapter 67: Persuasion Unavailing

“impatient huff” Yes, maybe. I’ll concede you a point and admit that the Vanyar did all they could, or rather , all they were taught all their lives to believe and act upon. Without bearing any other resemblance with the story, of course, they remind me of Job’s three friends or should I say four, because Ingwion is still around. Utterly unable to understand that life isn’t always how they imagined it to be and equally desperate to preserve their own …happiness. Now that I’m here, I noticed a couple of things, which interest me greatly. Like “I care nothing for Fëanáro’s baubles!" Findaráto shouted (...) "Let him and his sons deal with Melkor if they wish." “clapping her hands” Finally the truth, plainly spoken. Why, but everyone was going there to mind his own business, not Fëanáro’s. Furthermore, most of them all but took Nolofinwë as their king, which was totally within their rights to do. Who should be then blamed for the Noldor’s flight? Perchance each of the ones who willingly took part in said flight? "You wouldn’t have had this desire but for Fëanáro." Really? How many times before had Findaráto or any other Noldo felt any desire awakened in them by Fëanáro’s words? What kind of foothold had Fëanáro’s words found within the Noldor’s souls? Was it perhaps that the Valar broke the very foundation of the society they tried to build in Aman since bringing the Eldar to live with them and thusly gave to Fëanáro’s words the ring of truth? Huh…it looks to me here that Findaráto is more like his sweet sister than I ever imagined. I think Tolkien does say something about this. Now it wasn’t only about meeting the Aftercomers and exploring new lands but also about carving a kingdom for himself! Not that he didn’t have the right to harbour such ambitions but… One word for Findekáno. The most noble and heroic of all the scions of Finwë’s House, his was the deed worthy to be praised in songs for all the ages to come.

Tari · 10 August 2011 · Chapter 95: Ingalaurë Alone

Ingoldo may be down, but he is definitely not out. It is good that everyone will remain on high alert where he is concerned. Nornoros did a good job and should be rewarded not punished.

Sitara · 10 August 2011 · Chapter 66: Plots and Counterplots

To put it as politely as I could, Ingwion could have thought of better ways to try and bring his cousin “on the right path” than calling for Amarië and Intarion who would know only speak to him about “madness” and the need to preserve their faith in the Valar’s power to make the things right. Like trying to put himself in his shoes for a bit. I wonder, would be this the effect of sitting at Manwë’s feet? Happily living in a rosy-coloured bubble and utterly unable to perceive reality? Should have their King too fallen at Melkor’s hand for them to change their mindset? How is possible that they failed to see that the very foundation of their perfect little world was now cracked open and never again would be the same? To be frank, it’s impossible for me to understand the Vanyar, at least these three Vanyar. Let’s see what happens next. And just a thought, maybe, just maybe, they might have stopped Findaráto’s leaving, had they tried to understand his point of view. But with the kind of attitude “We’re right and you’re wrong” , they surely won’t accomplish one thing.

Tari · 9 August 2011 · Chapter 94: Intarion Alone

Intarion is really maturing and hanging tough where his father is concerned. Family loyalties have not blinded him to the truth. I hope Arafinwe returns soon.

Sitara · 9 August 2011 · Chapter 65: Ingwë Alone

I’m sorry too to have become that hard-hearted but well…I always thought that it’s easier to find compassion than a plainly spoken truth. Anyway, the issue remains open, for now. Now , to the Valar’s place of meeting and to Manwë, who had me almost fainting. I think and I may be wrong, of course, that this is the first time I heard him taking responsibility for a decision made. Of course, this responsibility of his would encompass only sending Ingwë to Tirion to reason with the Noldor and nothing else. Alas! the fool of me was hoping to see precisely Manwë face-saving the mighty Aratar but so far I cannot say he was up to the challenge. So, they asked mostly about the Oath then? I wonder why, since they were no part in it. Manwë and Varda were only called only to witness it but , in my opinion, it was solely between Eru Iluvatar and the people who swore it. To put it bluntly, the rest of the world would have been quite safe of its consequences, had they only kept their hands to themselves. No one ever had the right to claim the Silmarils nor did they need them. Or…the Valar’s real problem was the fact that a mere Elda dared to appeal directly to Eru Iluvatar and forget about His appointed representatives? A grumbler such as myself could easily suspect them of this. Anyway, the conclusion of their debate does certainly give another proof of their stellar competence. What should it have happened, I wonder, for them to finally do something? Anything would have been better than what they chose to do…at least on short and medium term. “grin” I believe that by now the innocent Noldor who will suffer grievously because of that wretched Fëanáro were now preparing to go seek for his Jewels…under Nolofinwë’s command. As for Ingwë’s performance as High King, I’ll keep my mouth shut for everyone’s sake. I only want to tell them one thing: as he’ll soon discover, there are things worse than death. In my opinion, this is the lingering theme of EI I and II. And Ingoldo finally decided to place his master strike? He surely did chose well the moment to do it. But, as we already saw in EI I Ingoldo and his companions in excellent shape and mood, I suppose it wouldn’t be a bloody confrontation, after all. I have to confess though that I’m curious how would everyone escape unharmed after this? Including Ingwë, of course.

Sitara · 9 August 2011 · Chapter 64: Preparations Advancing

Well, I’m positive you didn’t miss my comments but I did miss this story. And I’m pretty angry too so I thought it’d be nice to know the Valar forewarned. “grin” So, Findaráto and his cousin have just come back from their little…hunting trip and found everyone changing his/her mind about leaving for Middle-earth. For example, Ñolofinwë just remembered that he gave his oath to Fëanáro to follow him wherever would he lead. How convenient. And Arafinwë was adamant to not let his people to fall prey to his half-brother’s excesses. A most noble decision and I’m sure he did protect them as his best on the road from Tirion to Araman. As for Findaráto…he’s displaying here the behavior of an Elfling of two. For as much as he wanted to know the wide and magic world, he was willing to stay back as bounded by his duty to Aulë, to Aman and Tirion. Now, because everyone was leaving, he decided to leave too only to not be left behind! Beyond childish, in my opinion, but not more childish than Ingwion’s reaction. And this one was supposed to older than Fëanáro….huh. What in the Middle-earth did he do until this age, I wonder? Findaráto of all people (the rest could have gone to rot for all he cared) shouldn’t leave Aman only because he’d lose his beloved cousin! Not a thought about their reasons to undertake this journey, not a spark of understanding for their feelings and longings. He only thought about how would be he affected by their departure. Maybe it’s understandable because, for the first time in his life, he does realize that life isn’t always rosy. And…if the leaving Noldor would indeed die, just as he said, he’ll be the one to seek his death one day, without being able to find such a blessing. I’m being cruel but unfortunately I cannot muster up enough feeling to be sorry for it. Maybe next time… I'll be very interested to read through this tale (I missed an awful lot of chapters) and to see how far the things have gone until now. Somehow I know I won't be dissapointed by the progress of your story. "smile"

Laikwalâssê · 9 August 2011 · Chapter 97: Who Watches the Watcher?

I can sympazise with Nornoros. To stand by and only watch is hard. Manwe´s advise however is sound. The elves have to fulfill their destinies without interference, as well meant as they may be. I like your description of the Valar and Maiar so much, their interactions are so wonderful. Thank you for another great chapter. Sorry for the delay. I had no PC the last week. Lai

Sunny · 8 August 2011 · Chapter 98: Queen’s Gambit Declined

So the ladies have not been spotted - it makes me speculate a bit about alternative ways out of the city. But hopefully they will be found. Ingalaurë and his friends are at least going about the search in a logical and systematic manner - and when going through Ingoldo's papers and accounts, perhaps they will discover some clues - and perhaps find out about about some of Ingoldo's collaborators. Following the money might give some hints about what he has been up to. And speaking about collaborators - I find I am wondering about that nobleman who suggested withholding food and water. If he is not one of Ingoldo's people, he is as tainted as him - and perhaps he is one of those who get that wonderful career opportunity at Formenos in the Second Age? ;-)He has most certainly been noted now, and not in a good way. So Tamurilon was also beaten up. And that Tulcaner and Ingoldo is certainly quite a pair, aren't they?

Fantasia · 8 August 2011 · Chapter 98: Queen’s Gambit Declined

What a mess! I'm so proud of Tam, for chosen the right but also, the harder path, and for shown it to Ingalaurë. Also, Ingalaurë is so lucky to have the support of wise councilors and friends that won't let him fall in despair and blame the Valars. At least, they are in control of the city and most of the people are in their side. I only hope that Ingwë has the opportunity to thanks his son before his death. I have the impression that Ingalaurë was not as confidante as his brother; this crisis is helping him to take his position in his Father’s realm.

6336 · 8 August 2011 · Chapter 98: Queen’s Gambit Declined

No, starving Ratty would take too long, they need answers now, maybe they can question some of the other guards? Ratty would not understand being forgiven, he has no compassion of his own and would not expect it from another. Oh, poor Tam, Ratty will have a lot to answer for eventually, when the king comes back. (That sounds familiar!) I see Ingalure is finding kingship not as easy as it looks! Huggs, Lynda

Sunny · 5 August 2011 · Chapter 97: Who Watches the Watcher?

I am glad Manwë wasn't too hard on Nornoros. Hopefully he will be able to keep himself in check - or at least be very subtle in any "encouraging" he does. I can certainly understand how he wanted to help Ingalaurë a bit, and while keeping him from killing his uncle was blatant enough, the encouraging words were subtle enough. And it was after all just encouragment - though some encouraging words can be enough for the recipient at the right time. It seems rather likely that Ingalaurë's death is the "destiny" that the Valar see - at least the most likely one. And we know that he _does_ die - it makes me wonder just what actions and happenings his death will be a catalyst for. The Valar admit that they can't entirely predict the actions of the Children, and I wonder a bit at what kind of alternate paths they foresee if he is not killed. Probably bad ones - Manwë does say that Ingoldo's fëa is tainted, and it would be a bad thing to have someone like that as King - or the puppetteer who pull the King's - or Regent's - strings. At least Ingalaure seems to have put a stop to that - at least for now.

Fantasia · 5 August 2011 · Chapter 97: Who Watches the Watcher?

So good that Nornoros is Ok, poor Maia, to watch someone that you love being abused or being corrupted and unable to prevent it is very bad. Now I'm only thinking on how much he will suffer after Ingalaurë's death. I don't like to have foresight, in this story, because we know some of the final events, it seems that we are granted foresight and I don't like it, because there is nothing that we can do to change the outcome (unless that you rewrite all your stories and keep Ingalaurë alive? it is just a thought..., just kiding) Another discover that I have done about myself, it is that I can't be a Maia, because pity is not among my feeling towards Ingoldo, I'm so human, really. Love that Nornoros reached Atar and felt his love, because if you have that, you can face anything that fate keep throwing to you. Thanks Fiondil

6336 · 5 August 2011 · Chapter 97: Who Watches the Watcher?

Ah, good, Nornoros did not get into too much trouble, just a stern warning from Manwe to behave himself and his very own 'Watcher'! I think Ratty needs a Keeper, more than a Watcher! Namo knows that Ingalure is going to come to him in at least one if not several of the sceanerios(sp?) he has forseen and he is dreading it happening. Poor Namo he has as much, if not more mental anguish, as Eonwe does.It has to be so hard to stand by and let things unfold as they will. Now to find the ellith and get this train wreck back on the tracks, or as much as can be! Huggs, Lynda

Angwen · 5 August 2011 · Chapter 97: Who Watches the Watcher?

Argh! You evil cliff-hanging monkey!!! Nice architecture. ^_^

Tari · 3 August 2011 · Chapter 92: Intarion and Lirulin in Tirion

What a perfect end for the mithril collar. A crown that will always be a reminder of what was and should never be again. Leave it to an elleth to blurt out the truth without considering the other persons feelings. Poor Amarië.