One of my all times favorite stores, so well written

Ah, it feels great to be back! I'm terribly sorry for the long delay, but no, I haven't given up - not on this review and not on my own story. I'm just fortunate now to get back to it :)
Of course, I hope you and all your readers have been doing well, and hopefully in the coming days I can get more of this done.
On with the review!
Chapter 23: 'Requests' (Continued):
If any other Lords or Princes died without leaving heirs, find someone to fill the void. There is literally no other job to be done. I’m sorry, it’s just that this ‘resettling territories’ sounds like they’re going to make some profound changes.
Okay, so you explained why Éomer forgave Vezely. It was terrible, whatever heart I have left is completely shattered, but you gave an explanation. But why is he being at least kind of nice? I mean, Éomer, she is partially responsible for nearly getting your sister killed. Screw her.
I’m assuming "As did you and your éored” is actually more of an insult than anything else, and I’m surprised Éomer didn’t take it as such. He was raised amidst politics, he should know wordplays.
So… these Western assholes saw on the battlefield the Easterlings didn’t surrender, no matter how badly things went, and didn’t think that maybe they were too proud to accept mercy? That it was an important cultural thing? If they didn’t hate Gondor before, I’m willing to bet they do now.
"Yet if you can persuade them that our intentions are honorable, that they will be provided escort to their lands in hopes they will rebuild a prosperous civilization, that the West is merciful to their enemies and would prefer them as allies, then perhaps, it is a start towards this optimistic future." I would be very skeptical of this, too. These warriors are going to forgive Gondor for dishonoring them because ‘they didn’t mean it that way’? I don’t think I would. These people don’t WANT mercy.
Still, all the more props to Vezely for taking this job. Though maybe the Westerners should’ve thought this through a little better…
Vezely, for apparently knowing Éowyn really well (that appears to be what we’ve been told anyway), really has a terribly… warped view on her relationship with her brother. If I had to compare Éomer and Éowyn to two other siblings, I’d compare them to Zuko and Azula (in the ‘Search’ trilogy, not the main series, because we see Zuko actually caring about Azula there).
Yeah, I could say Vezely had these doubts about her relationship with Legolas before… but honestly, I think it fits here. It’s suddenly getting all too real. They’re more or less officially together now, but she’s still possibly considered unworthy.
Also, thanks to Vezely I now remember: the Valar have now shown what good her bloodline, or understanding her bloodline, does her in regards to her redemption. Not a lot.
Vezely quite readily assumes the prisoners will gladly accept mercy, given they can be convinced that the offer’s sincere. Weird, since earlier she’s the one who points out the Westerners didn’t do them a favor by keeping them alive.
It’s kind of neat how awkward Vezely is. I can only imagine actually liking someone romantically for the first time is, but she has no idea how Legolas believes this should go. What is he comfortable with? What does he expect from her? This is actually really well done. I have to give you credit.
I generally really like the third part. Why do I get the feeling I’m still going to be a jerk?...
That’s neat, that the more difficult – and awkward – things to adjust to are everyday life, not the big things. The big things she may have kind of heard as stories, or accept the way you accept stories or reports. Even to participate in rare occasions can be pretty easy, it can even be done out of mere curiosity. But to live in a very different way from what you’re used to permanently, that’s a hard thing.
I like Vezely’s sarcasm. As much as I hate her bashing the customs, traditions and philosophy of the West, such dry remarks about what the West itself considers its greatest achievements are… awesome.
Having read the full story, re-reading this bit about Vezely returning to the land she was born is nothing short of heartbreaking…
That’s another thing that I can’t or don’t understand. Rhûn, Khând and Harad are all three vast desert countries – and Rhûn is separate. Even Umbar is kind of separate, but let’s forget about them for a while. Rhûn is explicitly stated to have ‘hundreds’ or even ‘thousands’ of cultures, by Clan, related in many cases, but still separate. But the Variags are one giant tribe who also happen to closely resemble the Balchoth – from Rhûn, which is a long journey away – in culture? Even the Haradrim are portrayed to be very similar to each other and the Easterlings (or at least the Balchoth). Which, in context, doesn’t make any sense.
I have to admit, this end was pretty good. It makes me want to immediately read on. How is she going to solve this? In fact… is she going to manage to solve it? She did fight for the West, against the East and the South. So this could very well go wrong. This plan, while good at the surface, actually wasn’t a stroke of brilliance.
I actually don’t feel like I’ve been bashing this chapter in particular, and I want you to know I really do feel guilty for being harsh a lot of times. It’s almost like I can’t help myself; I need to get the complaints and questions off my chest. Here… I still feel I’ve been unfair. This chapter is a highlight. This is up there with chapter 13. I skimmed through it again and I think this chapter is better. The cultural thing is there – Vezely is asked to do this because she (supposedly) understands the prisoners better, and she struggles with Elvish courtship rituals and daily life. And it all feels really natural. I can believe this is the kind of trouble someone in her situation would have.
Chapter 24: ‘Cultural Differences’
I did remember this chapter pretty well. That’s on itself a good thing. It kind of kick-starts the ‘new’ plot, if you wish. And it’s certainly well-written. That being said… I’m afraid it’s time for me to be an asshole. I’m sorry, I just genuinely have problems here.
I will start by saying the paragraph with the Captain being properly introduced and checking who Vezely is was really good. Beautifully done.
"Finally, you send someone of fucking worth to hold council." I kind of understand this response, though equally appropriate would be: “First weaklings, now traitors. What do you take us for?”
Alright, on itself, I like her revenge having some kind of consequence. Though… it may have been better if it had remained just vengeance, but this wasn’t on her mind at the time, so it’s all good. However, I have so many problems… and ‘if he would uphold the custom of their people, for they stood not on the soil of Rhun’ isn’t even one of them. They seem to be clinging to the warrior pride thing pretty fiercely. Why would the soil they stand on matter? Better yet, why would these VARIAGS, from KHÂND, need to stand on the soil of RHÛN? That doesn’t make any sense. What I’m worried about are things like: Doesn’t being a member of the Clan kind of matter? Isn’t there a law that prevents outsiders from usurping the Clan or something? Vezely’s uncle opposed her because he didn’t consider her Balchoth, right? And Vezely herself emphasized that yes, she was Balchoth right after the fight. So… that must’ve mattered. And at least with the Balchoth, she was raised among them and stuff. To the Variags, if she’s an outsider isn’t even a question. She is, period. Also, she is now officially an Elf. She has allied herself with the West. She’s a traitor to all of Rhûn. Shouldn’t she be hated throughout the land when her tale spreads? This is so… wrong that it’s absolutely ridiculous these assholes are still sticking with the ‘if you kill the leader, you deserve to be the next leader’ rule. Thinking back, that “I make the challenge” stuff from chapter 19 is baffling. They’re fighting over leadership? LEADERSHIP OF WHAT? I just don’t get it. Also, challenges are valid even when made on a battlefield, by someone from the other side? Crap, any random asshole could interrupt a Clan war, challenge the enemy Clan’s leader and take over. Clan wars could be ended with a single duel, which then unites the Clans. But we know that’s not how it’s done. Should the Variags technically have switched sides in the middle of battle?
I know it would cut his role short, but I can’t even imagine how I would’ve been in awe of the Captain if he’d been like: “Screw it. I don’t care if it gets me killed in a minute, I don’t care who she killed, but I am not handing my men over to a traitor.”
“Robbed of the glorious death of a warrior on the field of battle, nursed back to health by enemy's hand, and now beholden to your leader's sworn adversary.” Hey, that kind of sounds like what happened to Vezely. Irony.
I like Yaban and his loyalty. Though, of course, for the sake of the story, he’s an obstacle for Vezely to overcome. The way she did so (at least for now) I’m on the fence about, but I agree with Faramir: they’re prisoners of Gondor. They shouldn’t allow anyone to do this crap. The line was CLOSE to being crossed? To me, this looks like all Gondorian rules have been thrown out the window.
Holy crap, Legolas’ doubts about whether or not he should actually kill – or wound, or at least shock – Vezely was AWESOME.
Wait, do these guys prefer death or not? This guy was awesome and fearless just a few moments ago. Now he’s scared of being killed – which undoubtedly is no fun, especially since it wouldn’t count as dying in battle, but sounds better than having to serve a traitor. Or is that just me? I bet it’s just me.
I thought mercy was an insult. Why does she think these words will in any way help her?
‘"Variags do not know peace or accept mercy, General," the captain told her proudly.’ This Captain is a badass of Théoden levels. I may hate this plan, but I sure as hell love this guy.
Let me make Vezely’s answer explicit. “No, you do not, nor do any Easterlings. But now you do, because I fucking tell you to, damn it!” No, seriously, what exactly IS her answer, if it’s not that? There is no answer. Please don’t tell us any significant numbers of people are going to agree to this traitor coming back and changing their entire way of life…
Uhm… I thought the implication so far was the Variags and Haradrim were more or less unified. I guess Khând and Harad are like ancient Greece, culturally essentially the same, but politically divided? While Rhûn – or this Easterling Confederation (to which the Variags never should have been allowed, by the way) – is like the Roman Empire: a lot of cultures inside, but a unifying State? Just so we’re clear.
Sorry, that was just a clarifying note. I was a little confused by the idea that the Variags and Haradrim, elsewhere always treated as a block, now suddenly have to worry about potential invading tribal armies. I get that Sauron didn’t mass all of them together; he’d be smart enough to understand the idea of having reserves. But okay, I can actually buy all of this. It’s a little confusing, but okay. No, where this plan gets really ridiculous is here (and to be completely honest, I somehow missed this on my first read, mostly because I was actually engaged and the awesome writing style made me want to read on, not stop and think): there’s 34 men in that prison, as we all remember from last chapter. How tiny do tribal armies have to be that even all 34 of these are going to matter a damn if the neighboring tribe decides to come shopping, but doesn’t feel like paying? I would’ve loved a scene after a year, maybe a few years, when one of the Haradrim returns to Vezely and tells her: “General, we did as you said and returned home to defend it, and we were attacked, as you said we might be. Unfortunately, the four of us couldn’t stop them, and I barely escaped with my life. As for my tribe, they’re mostly bereft, enslaved or butchered.” Seriously, why does anyone take this idea seriously? Even if every tribe kept some men back, and Vezely’s messengers are merely to warn them from danger, wouldn’t the tribes that didn’t send anyone massively outnumber the ones that did send forces to be slaughtered by Westerners? Did every tribe send just a small fraction of its manpower? Because in that case, why is anyone even worried? I’m sorry, this plan doesn’t sound like it’s going to do anyone a lot of good.
If you lose your honor on the battlefield and that’s such a big deal, I don’t understand how you can regain it in another place entirely.
Seriously? If Aragorn, or Faramir, wanted these guys dead… Why hasn’t he executed them? Why did he bother having them healed? What kind of logical sense would that make? In what world does someone have you nursed back to health after you were knocked unconscious and probably injured, housed and fed, release you, give you an escort back home, and then has that escort kill you? In what world is that an easier or smarter plan than… just making sure you’re dead on the battlefield? Or leaving you to die of your injuries? Or putting poison in your food? Or executing you? Obviously, they have no intention of killing.
And now, Vezely gets to decide she’ll get these people home herself… basically because it’s convenient. Can we at least agree that, assuming there was ever a line to start with, the line has NOW been crossed?
Sure, Vezely’s going to check in regularly. I mean, why the hell not? She forced harder things on Gondor.
Why is the Captain – WHO JUST TOLD US VARIAGS DON’T KNOW MERCY – suddenly grateful over what you could interpret as extra concessions? Come to think of it, wouldn’t that be considered weakness, which these badass warriors despise? Have these Westerners ever displayed any tendencies towards mistreating their captives?
I’ll admit, I have to re-read some future chapters, but at this stage, I really like Remi. It’s interesting, having him there. I mean, I don’t like him, obviously. He’s a traitor, not a shred of decency in him. But… I guess it’s a rather different kind of character, and he’s interesting.
Faramir is awesome. I think a lot of people would be furious and freaking out, probably including me, but he’s in control, calm, collected. A great leader. Are we sure we need Aragorn? At this stage, it looks like we’ll be totally fine with Faramir – who also was raised in high political circles and probably would be more or less okay with being the new ruler. Okay, okay, the law is the law, that’s also what makes Faramir such a great leader, so he has to crown Aragorn, I know it can’t be helped.
"These are Vez's men, it is her choice." … What. The. Hell. Faramir is still in charge, right? Now I’m convinced Aragorn shouldn’t be given power. These men are Gondor’s captives. Faramir is responsible for them and is rightfully concerned about their well-being. Please don’t lie to us. The line wasn’t close to being crossed. The truth is, as I said before, there was never a line to start with.
Well, I may hate this Remi guy, but I’ll be damned if I don’t respect him keeping up his sass in literally every circumstance. “You kill me? Cool. You don’t? Fine.” He’s treacherous scum, but he has that redeeming quality. It’s kind of morally complex, he’s not at all what you’d expect an opportunistic traitor to be like. He gambled and lost, but is, in a way, a dignified loser.
Is Vezely angry with Derufin? Because, honestly, I can’t begin to imagine a reason for her to be.
"Liberty would be stating it mildly." Okay, it’s obvious Faramir is basically the new Éomer, though handled much better. While, as I will explain later, I absolutely hated Éomer being basically a sexist dick in concept, here it’s very hard to not sympathize with Faramir from these beginnings. Honestly, I’m all with Faramir. She didn’t think this plan may not qualify as regular procedure? Hell, this deal is just something the West wants, they don’t need it. Like, at all. I’ll admit I’m borderline paranoid, constantly worrying, but I can perfectly imagine anyone in this situation never trusting Vezely again. I know I’d constantly drop hints I can’t wait for her to leave. Yes, I know, I’m a bit of an asshole by my own admission, and I’m really not helping my own case right now. But you know what? That doesn’t even matter. This isn’t an argumentative piece; it’s not like I’m writing a presidential speech. Though I would totally watch a debate between Trump and Sanders about the question if ‘The Hobbit’ was a fun ride or a barely watchable mess. (Actually had a blast imagining it.) Anyway, this is merely me stating what I do and don’t like, and trying to explain why. The point is, Faramir entrusted her with a very delicate government operation, and while technically she did get through to the prisoners, her job was to get them to understand the Westerners were trying to be nice and that was about it. If you pulled this crap in any modern day military, I’m pretty sure you’d be court-martialed. I don’t know, and I’m not testing it out.
Alright, I like Vezely acknowledging how hard it is for this plan to actually work, but that also makes me sigh that it still did happen. A plot point that somehow escaped my attention, but is fortunately brought up by Vezely (seriously, I’m not being sarcastic; thank you) is that the duel between Vezely and Öldur was in the middle of a larger battle and the Variags probably didn’t gather around to watch. Apart from that, though, my main problem is that this shouldn’t be valid. This is like Harry Potter’s name coming out of the Goblet of Fire. Something’s obviously wrong, someone rigged this thing, you’d expect in these circumstances they can overrule Harry’s participation… But for some reason, they apparently can’t. Shut up and don’t question it. This rule shouldn’t allow traitors of Western blood who were at no point in any way Variag to begin with to usurp power among the Variags. But it does… somehow, and it’s bloody helpful.
Yeah, she accomplished more than expected from her. But honestly, it’s… stupid, and I try not to use this word too lightly, as is often done, that she just assumes this radically altered situation doesn’t mean serious re-calculation. She gave the actual rulers here an accomplished fact, UNDERMINING THEIR AUTHORITY. Yeah, I’m surprised Vezely didn’t think of this. It would’ve been really nice to warn them this was her plan, so they could talk it through. Maybe then, she could’ve gotten it approved and Faramir would actually support her on the basic plan, leaving the differences on practical issues more easily resolved. Now, Faramir is understandably pissed at being ignored on… basically one of his first days in office as ruler of Minas Tirith. Honestly, I would even have rooted for Faramir if he had said: “Derufin, tell them the deal is off. I want all of them out of my city when they’ve fully recovered.” Which honestly should’ve been the plan from the start. They’re healed back up to full strength, and then they’re free to go. Maybe they’ll go die somewhere, or choose to live as exiles, maybe they’ll tell their people the Westerners don’t like killing people and are thus a relatively safe destination for merchants, maybe they’ll warn against the consequences of marching against the West. Worst case scenario, they convince their tribes to take up arms in revenge. But Sauron is gone. The tribes would stand alone. Gondor and Rohan still have organized Royal armies and fortresses and whatnot. And the very idea is pretty unlikely anyway. Sometimes simple plans aren’t bad plans.
"You are in no position to make those demands." It’s a little hard to root against Faramir when he’s just… right.
"Am I to simply trust you will not march this army of yours on our settlements as you pass our lands to your own, that you will not rape and pillage Ithilien for your own spoils?" Again, I’m a semantic jerk, but I have no idea how you

Thank you for writing this fic. I don't have words good enough to describe it but it's the best amongst many I've read. In depth story and characters. It was just so beautiful and also heartbreaking. I'll keep this story close to my heart and return to it someday. Thank you, you're a wonderful writer!

I looove this! Thank you so much for this story! :)

This was so good! Thank you so much for sharing your creativity, imagination and talent for writing with us. The character of Vezely is so special, unique and believable. I love their love. Love the story! Again thank you for sharing!

Superb!

Just finished rereading this story after many years, still so good and well written! Thank you so much for sharing this story with us all.

I absolutely loved it! Honestly so happy I read this it left me feeling really fulfilled and I loved that you went deeper into easterling culture! I will always remember this ff!

Amazing amazing amazing. The last few chapters, as you left the story of the books and movie and created new scenarios, has finally made you one of my favourite authors and the same for this story.
I searched so long for an OC not falling into the LOTR World accidentally or one who had to depend on the members of fellowship. And you gave me, and I'm guessing all the other readers exactly what they wanted. A character truly worthy of belonging in the tolkeinverse. Female characters like Vezely are always needed to give strength to the female readers. For our world is not unlike the one in the story, with different cultures who often undermine women's strength and value.
So a huge thank you. I am truly enjoying each and every chapter, and the wonderful dialogue you have created between the characters, and the atmosphere each scene evokes.
I was weary before when I found some repeating grammatical errors (like the misplaced use of 'would' where there should be the past tense of the verb or action involved), and also when I could not sense the love between the main pair initially when they professed it for each other, and if that was intentional on your part, then that is an amazing skill. I have a lot more words of appreciation to spare but my mind is running ahead of my speed to type, so I will stop here and just say to be confident for you did an amazing job with this story and I'm sure you'll keep growing even better.

It took me many days to finish this story, and I am so glad that I did. What a great story

Lol how to kill a first date: talk about psychological torture

You said you were going to write other stories, but on your profile, you said you stopped writing. I wonder what happened. You have a gift when it comes to writing

Lol, Thrandy

I am halfway reading through this story, and I just amazed on how good this story is. There are spelling mistakes and grammar mistakes, showing how English is probably not even your first language. However, despite this, I would argue that you have written one of the best LOTR fan fictions ever.

Hey. First, I want to apologize for a long wait. Second, I've been quite rude in failing to wish you happy holidays. My apologies there, and I hope every occasion on your end has been absolutely marvellous.
Another thing: I've been absorbing a lot more Tolkien lore since I started this review, and a lot of times you were really just being faithful to the source material, so... my apologies for giving you a rough time over it. I really do appreciate you knowing your stuff.
Side note: I read a reviewer who apparently enjoys my mix of sarcasm and nitpicking, and I am so grateful for that :) It's great, helping someone's day be better. And yes, when I feel I should be positive, I will be, and I certainly will be in the analysis at the end.
On with the review, since I don't have enough space as is!
Chapter 20: ‘Unwelcome Tidings’ (Continued):
Again, to quote CinemaSins: “Well, good for Éowyn. Good for gender equality. But her triumph was totally made possible by A) the Nazgûl’s stupidity and B) Merry’s leg-stab. I think Éowyn is a badass woman who deserves praise, but she totally deserved to kill this asshole without assistance, so this line has more power.” Thinking about the scene actually completely destroys what it supposedly stands for.
Sorry, I needed to get that out of my system. Just to be clear: a lot of this can’t be held against you, and I don’t. Let’s get on with the story.
Can you please stop including Éomer in your writing? I feel so bad about this guy. I’d love for you to PM me and explain what he did to you to deserve this. I know he isn’t the guy we all love and/or get excited about, but come on. Now he has to say ‘thank you’ to the bitch who ended up almost costing him his sister – his final remaining relative. I think I’d rather be dead. Just imagine the terrible emotional anguish he’s going through. He failed to keep his sister safe and lost his uncle. Say, wouldn’t this be a great moment to delve into his psyche and give him some redemption! Let’s make it clear just how hard this all is for him – how terrible it must be to be Éomer. Come on, that’s the least he deserves, right? ‘He stopped before her feet, staring sternly at her calm face while internally processing some truisms in his mind: he knew she aided his sister's objective of fighting in this war, which nearly took her life; while at the same time, she saved his own life on the battlefield. The former he would not easily forgive but for the latter.’ … I guess that’s something… Why am I expecting more consideration for this guy at this point?
The talk between the elderly healer and Legolas was something I did like. The assumptions by the healer made sense, and his responses were good. Being so brutally and concretely faced with the possibility of Vezely dying, having to make provisions for her burial, obviously was something of a blow to him.
WHAT. THE. FUCK. Did Éowyn try to persuade Éomer to let her go into battle again? After what happened the last time? First off, what the hell does she think she’s going to do? She wasn’t that much use before, and now she’s got a broken arm. If she goes into battle, and this time Éomer knows, men are probably going to die trying to protect her. Secondly, last time she just snuck along. That plan worked pretty well. Thirdly, what an awesome brother does Éowyn have that he still cares about her. She blatantly disrespects him at just about every turn, makes friends with people she knows he doesn’t like, and generally does everything she can to hurt him. And this is the most painful example yet. She is his only living relative remaining. She’s all he has left. She almost died fighting. And now she tells him she wants another chance at death. Dear Éowyn, kindly go jump off a cliff, that’ll get you killed too. If Vezely had been there and had supported her, Éomer would’ve just snapped and killed her – and could we seriously blame him? Seriously, I can only imagine what mess the new King must be emotionally at the moment…
That last paragraph before the next part, though… That was some seriously good writing right there.
So, Vezely is once again literally on the shores of the afterlife. I like the symmetry, I really do. I’m sorry, there’s not a lot to comment on – and I have already written a lot in here. Still, I would be remiss if I didn’t point out this part is well-written and very interesting, a good way of getting me to want to read on.
Now, don’t get me wrong, this chapter is a lot better than this review suggests. There’s not a lot of great things about it, but a lot of it is good, the two things I was honestly upset about are fairly brief parts, and the chapter ends on a high note. This is by no means a bad chapter.
Chapter 21: ‘An Elvish Existence’
Let me start off by saying this chapter is pretty good. The very beginning was awesome. Unfortunately, there’s still a lot holding it back.
As I said before, this first part is generally very good. You genuinely wonder who the two figures are. I’ll admit, I didn’t immediately understand why this choice is forced on her this way, while Elrond, Elros and Arwen all made theirs in very different circumstances. Or why she was slipping away, since her ‘default’ race is Elven and as an Elf, she can survive… Yeah, it’s a little unclear, but it’s not like everything was perfectly clear in the books – especially with the Half-Elf bullshit, as I said a few chapters ago.
Also, the Valar are kind of dicks. Yes, I agree, lifting the memory spell was a good idea. Vezely should have all the information she needs before making such an important call. But did they HAVE to put her face to face with her birth parents? In the context of the lore, it makes perfect sense they can’t let her talk to her adoptive parents, but this is quite obviously pushing her into a certain direction – ON THE MOST IMPORTANT CHOICE SHE’LL EVER MAKE IN HER LIFE. Now, I admit, the story tells us this is not what drives her decision, but it does speak volumes to the Valar – who, while wise and all, never had any of Vezely’s experiences – thinking they can choose for her. Can you imagine how much harder it’d be to tell your birth parents to their faces you prefer the legacy of your adoptive parents over theirs and over the chance to ever see them again than to have someone completely random explain this choice to you and having to tell them what you choose? Or, you know, maybe they could leave her alone to think for a while; she’s obviously not going to die unless she chooses to be mortal and pass into the next world.
You know what? Screw it. I’m just a bitter jerk whining and nitpicking details. In a weird way, this conversation between Vezely and her birth parents was really… sweet. Genuine emotion, I appreciate that. You just KNOW from this relatively brief part there’s so much they want to tell her, and probably she has a few things to say as well… but they can’t. And no matter what she chooses, they can’t count on ever seeing each other again.
I’m starting to wonder who the real villains are here. Seriously, what do the Valar want? She fought against Sauron, risking her life in battles she didn’t expect were possible to win. What would they have done if this poor woman had faced off against the Witch-King instead of – or before – Éowyn and he would’ve used his giant morning star to smash her skull? Would she still ‘not have come far enough’? Don’t good intentions – and we’ve seen her thinking about returning to Rhûn to set things straight – get you anywhere?
Alright, let’s talk about Vezely choosing. Yeah, I do like this: ‘She looked downward momentarily, noting the choice before her was not as difficult as she assumed it would be, though it would leave her future still doubtful.’ Of course I like this. However, not only is this easier than Vezely assumes, this is easier than it has any right to be. Maybe – in fact, probably – actual people think like this, but in that case, I’m just sinning actual people. It’s the people who raised her she’s throwing away. It’s her culture. It’s the people who have been more of parents to her than the people standing before her. It’s that beloved cousin and surrogate sister we later on hear her talking about. Seriously, it sounds like it’s not even a question. I am baffled.
Yes, from a plot perspective, I have a lot of problems with this first part. However, don’t let me deceive you. I already admitted it was emotionally pretty heavy stuff, and it was very well written.
Alright, Sauron being destroyed is a pretty good explanation for Vezely suddenly remembering. It’d also explain why her Elven side would suddenly heal her from the poison’s effect.
Yeah, Éowyn did survive, no thanks to you, Vezely. No thanks to her either, I admit.
Alright. Earlier, I tried to be a little bit nice. I obviously did a truly terrible job, but I pointed out it wasn’t all your fault, you’re just working with the source material. But I cannot find an excuse for this: "You are as Vezena for your people," Vez told her endearingly, referring to the story of her namesake, the great woman warrior of Rhun, "May young girls find courage in the story of the shield maiden who took down an enemy no man could kill..."
*Breathing deeply, fuming* Alright. Let’s do this. Yes, may future generations of Rohirrim girls be inspired by a Princess – Royalty, who is thus supposed to help keep everything going – who refused to accept her place, WHICH IS ONE MOST OF THEM CAN ONLY EVER DREAM OF. Why would Éowyn strike them as anything but an irresponsible brat? Hell, she barely struck me as anything else here. Let them be inspired by the worst sister ever. Let them draw courage from the fact that, no matter how idyllic the lives they’re supposed to have are – and we’re never given any indication it’s anything bad or unappealing, though I can imagine lots of children dreaming of the comfort of a palace instead of a tiny house in a random village – there may be some bullshit prophecies about sexist protective spells which require them to probably get themselves killed and even if they’re insanely lucky, their enemy is a complete moron and they’ve got a not easily remarked friend to help them, get their arm broken. This is truly inspiring. Probably a lot of parents in Rohan agree with me when I say this is a one-time thing, and thank the gods for it.
Another thing is: wouldn’t it be far better if Sauron was defeated and the Rohirrim just went on? Sure, with a new King, and Gondor with a new King, but wouldn’t it be the ultimate victory if this war ended up not really changing anything? I think that’d be the ultimate defeat for Sauron: leaving behind a world where he might as well not or barely have existed.
It was again both a good moment and fun to see Vezely dressed as befitting a Western lady. It’s a nice touch.
I’m actually surprised Vezely doesn’t regret having missed a good fight. Though the reasons we’re given are pretty good.
It’s good Vezely now has memories of her Elvish childhood, I really like that. However, you know what would’ve made this chapter really awesome? Getting a look at the actual memory.
Yeah, Faramir essentially replaces Éomer as the Western male authority figure for Vezely to have a conflict with. Which I can’t believe you hadn’t figured out by that point may not have been the best idea. Though I ought to be fair: Faramir vs. Vezely, while still not being good in concept, is a VAST improvement over Éomer vs. Vezely. There’s a lot of things that make it easier to swallow. For example, I like how here, they start out friendly. I also like how Éowyn doesn’t really choose sides this time around – though it makes me feel all the worse for her brother… And I seem to recall this doesn’t get resolved. I would argue Éomer vs. Vezely wasn’t really resolved, but I can go on and on about that. Anyway, this conflict, while I still don’t like the concept, is a lot better.
Uhm, no. Your name is Vezely. Or Bellethiel, for all I care, now you got your Elvish memories back. ‘Vez’ is your old, now officially useless cover name or a calling name for your friends. You just met this dude. What business does Faramir have calling Vezely ‘Vez’?
I genuinely liked that Faramir says things that hurt Vezely in complete ignorance. A misunderstanding. I think this might be the most relatable thing in the entire story. I don’t think there’s anyone out there who never said something they never would’ve said if they knew what their conversation partner did.
Faramir, listen to Vezely. If you’re going to call her ‘Vez’ – which isn’t your fault, I know – please don’t call her ‘Lady Vez’. Good gods, does that combination sound terrible… It just doesn’t go together.
Vezely’s reflections on Legolas I for one liked. Yes, probably a bit idolizing, but this is the chapter where she gave up on her culture and the people who raised her at least partially for his sake. And mostly, she’s simply… correct. He’s dignified – which he should be. He’s Royalty. This part also made me wonder: Yeah, how do weddings work? Are they the same throughout the West? Is it different from Gondor to Rohan? Men to Elves? This is not really explored, to my knowledge.
It’s interesting how Vezely doesn’t know if Legolas survived, and later, how he doesn’t know if she’s still alive. When first explaining the notion of Elves dying from a broken heart, I thought Legolas implied a psychic link.
Why is the healer calling Vezely ‘Lady Vez’?
Elves don’t sleep? I just thought they didn’t need as much rest. Why would they even have beds then?
Oh, fine. I’m really being an asshole. This reunion with Legolas and Vezely, that was some genuine emotion. I’m not made of stone, damn it. That was so awesome. And it’s made even better by her knowing she’ll end up having to return home, to Rhûn, to set things straight.
All in all, don’t let me fool you. This chapter is way better than this review suggests. It’s just that what I like about it is pretty easily summed up, and there are some plot and message things that I for one really take issue with. However, this chapter definitely qualifies as enjoyable. Faramir at this stage is enjoyable, Vezely had two awesome emotional moments, and of course the same awesome writing style that makes this story work. Considering the main story is essentially over, I’m looking forward to what follows; and I imagine there’ll be more detail here!
Chapter 22: ‘Necessary Conversations’
Generally, I like this chapter. I know there’s better to come, but this is alright.
This start is awesome. ‘"And an Elf that has only been able to keep down solid foods since yesterday," the healer added unimpressed, adding sternly, "I should not have to remind you that you were close to death before your health miraculously turned around."’ Is it wrong that I’m laughing? These people don’t take crap from anyone. Gods, I enjoyed that little exchange…
Okay, it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense they suddenly do compromise, but whatever.
I like how Vezely lost almost everything she took with her – but not quite everything; I remember the Balchoth ring too well. And she still has the tattoos. She’s still the same, she has just been through a lot.
Why do the healers suggest a way out? Is one route healthier than another? Or less frequented? Sorry, it just feels a little strange they’d waste time on that.
I’m actually really happy Vezely got her revenge and enjoyed it. It’s… reassuring, in a way, and keeps her character interesting. She’s still a warrior.
Vezely and Gimli reunited! That just HAD to be awesome. And it was. I said it before, but these two work so well together. Vezely mocking the ghost army thing was absolutely hilarious.
Uhm… ‘Vez looked upon the two with pride’? Okay. That… just kind of came out of nowhere, in my humble opinion. Don’t get me wrong, she had some great interaction with the Hobbits, especially Merry, and they were friends, but this isn’t like with Éowyn, where Vezely had anything to do with them fighting.
Ah, leave it to Hobbits to embarrass you. I’m already glad we got these two back.
I really hate to disappoint, let alone to shatter a dream, but… Vezely can’t return to that peaceful life. In fact, in a way, I don’t think she should. I keep arguing: she should embrace her Elvish side, I agree, but not at the cost of the Balchoth in her. But that discussion is irrelevant. In our world, people have tried to reverse history before, notably after Napoleon’s defeat. It always failed. Now, Rohan and Gondor can just go on and enjoy peace. However, Rhûn – like Vezely – has been ruled by Sauron. He has been a huge influence on both.
That was a really brilliant explanation of Vezely’s fear of heights. Points there. Though… If I were an Orc and I got this terrible job of abducting an Elf child and her crying annoyed me, I’d just knock her out. But that’s just me. Also, they slaughtered her parents like nothing, but bothered to take her along; obviously there’s some benefit in keeping her alive. I’m not saying that a six-year-old would understand this when terribly upset at, you know, seeing her parents getting slaughtered, but it may be a bad start if you threaten her and can’t follow through. If she doesn’t manage to stop crying and you don’t drop her, the rest of the road might become that much more… tiresome. Okay, Orcs aren’t known for being bright, but they did manage to find maybe the only family with a child in the Woodland Realm outside of Thranduil’s halls.
To be honest… I’m surprised – pleasantly, mind you, but still – Vezely is so unambiguously happy about having her memories back. I’d think it was easier for her to not remember that part. Admittedly, she now understands her other side better, so that’s a plus. I just thought it was curious, is all. It’s fine.
Actually, only now thought of it. Legolas and Vezely are both called to leave – Legolas to the West, Vezely to the East. Neat. And it gets even better: in order for Vezely to reach the ‘actual’ West, she has to go to the East first.
“You have obligations here, to your people”? Does he, though? Thranduil seemed to be leading his people through war pretty well; he survived, along with his people, didn’t he? He didn’t need his warrior son to hold his hand through that. I’m no expert, but rebuilding after a war, while by no means an easy task, seems a lot easier than actually waging war. Even if this asshole does have a job for Legolas, does Vezely know? The war’s over. Everyone West of the Anduin can relax now, right? How long does it take to rebuild a Woodland Realm anyway?
Okay, sorry. There IS a reason for Legolas not coming along, I just didn’t see it until now. Vezely already knew Elves and Easterlings don’t get along. No matter how great a warrior Legolas is, he might actually hurt her cause more than he’d help. Consider this an apology for some of my bitching and a promise to not be as bad in the future.
I love the ending of this chapter so much. While the main LotR story feels like it’s been kind of glossed over, I do think it works to this story’s benefit. This is where the original stuff can almost fully take over. These last lines of dialogue promise so much greatness.
This isn’t one of the most memorable chapters, but it’s very solid, there’s a lot of things to like about it, it’s well-written, I like how it brings the future plot points really close. This is excellent work.
Chapter 23: ‘Requests’
Overall, this is again one of those chapters I feel are typical for this story – even quintessentially this story. There is so much good stuff, but also some things that hold it back. Though I should be fair: the latter are mostly the resolutions for plot points which are only introduced here. This chapter on itself is pretty awesome. One of the better parts, I’d say.
I like this meeting, to be sure, but… would the Western territories need a lot of resettling? Give Faramir Ithilien and find someone to rule Harondor, assuming there isn’t already. That’s about it. If any other L