To Save The Whole by French Pony
singing-sorrowless · 25 April 2026 · Chapter 6: Of A Royal Line
The family dynamic in this was so cute, which makes the story so much more bittersweet. I loved seeing Fingon and Fingolfin's care for their little family, and it was nice to see Turgon grieving and raising his daughter with his family's help. I had to skip the gory bit, but it didn't affect the story badly.
Cairistiona · 11 November 2008 · Chapter 6: Of A Royal Line
This was a wonderful story. I just recently finished reading The Silm. for the first time (I came on Tolkien late in life) and of course, like most people, Maedhros' story immediately leapt out at me and I was hoping to find a good fic that fleshed it out in more detail than Tolkien gives us, and you've done that in spades. The scene of Fingon rescuing Maedhros was wrenching but not really horrific in the least--although it certainly was to poor Fingon. I think he came off worse in this, really, than Maedhros, but nice to read Fingolfin's tender loving care for him. There's so much more I could say about this ... it really is a well-told tale and one that will go on my "favorites" list. Thank you for writing it.
MithLuin · 13 April 2006 · Chapter 6: Of A Royal Line
A wonderful story! I've often wondered why _Fingon_ was able to heal the rift, and this story makes it seem clear and natural. I would have liked to have understood Maedhros a bit more, but understandably, he wasn't available most of the time! It must be difficult to end a story from the Silmarillion on an upbeat note, so I congratulate you on the happy ending ;). Idril was indeed precious :)
Elenluin · 13 June 2005 · Chapter 6: Of A Royal Line
I loved this story, there are just too little first-age stories around :-) especially little Idril's remark near the end: "I like cousins. Cousins are the best thing in the world!" sent chills down my spine, thinking of her cousin Maeglin ;) And it's strange to picture Fingon and the others as youths, with a father that cares for them. Whenever you see them in stories, they usually are less 'human' and more as stern kings of their own realms. So I really like this other point of view!
Eruanneth_Luin · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 6: Of A Royal Line
Being right-handed and attempting to write left-handed (not Tengwar, of course) gave me genuine respect for the quick recovery and grim determination of this elf. Along with all his own troubles he has real concern for his friend. Ah, elves. That we could be so kind to those we care about. A harp crafted by the hands of Maglor would be a priceless gift. (Yes, I wish to learn to play a harp and found myself momentarily rather envious of Idril.) What a splendid sight of Maedhros releasing the Crown to his Uncle Fingolfin. Though the motivation of freeing himself from the contraints of Kingship to pursue the fullfillment of the Oath rang true as well. Fingon reacting to the realization that he is now next in line was quite enjoyable as was Idril and her new thought about 'cousins'. My only real regret is that three-letter word at the conclusion 'END'. I could have read many additional chapters and still wanted more. Thank you for this tale and I hope you write of elves often.
Eruanneth_Luin · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 5: With Only One Wing
Ah, the inevitable meeting between wounded friends. It must seem strange to a people who heal quickly and cleanly to be forever maimed. And for the one responsible for that severing, how dreadful to behold the results in the light of day. Yes, I loved Idril being the means of Fingon's partial release from guilt and regrets.
Eruanneth_Luin · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 4: The Grief Of Love
Oh my, this was a rough chapter. Yet so well expressed, details honest and painful. That Fingon suffered cruelly also is so true. Elves just did not DO this kind of thing with cold deliberation. To so wound a friend would have been damaging to both. When they left Aman little did they imagine that it would lead to this end. Once again the importance of family to elves is brought forth with insight and compassion. Fingon's punishment was in many ways a blessing in disguise. Thank you for the glimpse into a difficult time.
Eruanneth_Luin · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 3: Being Brave And Hardy
Idril and her harp. How often the harp is an instrument of more than the mere making of music. Small wonder when the beauty of the sound is considered. Co-conspirators in the night, Idril and Fingon, yet innocent in desire. A lovely scene. Then the dreadful panic of a child lost, even though an adult, demonstrates once more the intense love of family among elves. The quest for Maedhros would have been fraught with unseen peril and only one who cared more for the prisoner than the possible consequences of his actions would have braved those grief-haunted lands. Song was always a part of the elves and so 'right' a call to the captive. Just when the path seems clear for the rescue, hope will be dashed against the mountains.
Eruanneth_Luin · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 2: A Solemn Darkness
Morgoth came up with some vicious attacks in retaliation for the Noldor forays against him. Fortunately elves do not succumb so easily. That Aredhel wished to remember the good aspects of Maedhros and forgive the wrongs shows the great heart of elvenkind.
Eruanneth_Luin · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 1: The Tie That Binds
How appropriate to begin with a mention of Maglor and his 'long, elegant hands' and his voice 'grown thin and tight'; the pain and change of Maglor helpless to free his brother, and a foretaste of his elder brother in captivity. The carved vine that Maedhros could not enjoy, that perhaps his own hands had created was thoroughly sad. Fingolfin is wonderful; as fiery and opinionated as his half-brother, Fëanor, though more levelheaded and restrained perhaps, but still with a deep sense of kin, regardless of the past. That his was the germ of the idea Fingon would act upon he saw not. Especially heartening is the relationship within the immediate family, the caring, support and respect for one another. Thank you for a delightful chapter.
perelleth · 18 December 2004 · Chapter 6: Of A Royal Line
Pity we already came to the End... (sighs) It's a lovely tale Great fanfare! no one would expect less from Fëanor's sons... and the result of such display was...fun!: kneeling down in submission in his uncle's stable yard... I did appreciate that! (and Fingolfin behaving like a worried mother (your clothes and armours!) rather than a recently crowned king! it took him a bit to step into his new role!!) I truly enjoyed it, and above all, the quietness and introspection that seem to pour from every corner. Thanks a lot, this story truly needed to be recounted! :-)
elliska · 16 December 2004 · Chapter 6: Of A Royal Line
Sorry it took me so outrageously long to review this chap. I am without Internet access and I have squeaked in one hour on a computer so I am making hay while the sun shines. I was so disappointed to see the 'complete' on this. Well done. I loved the apology and passing of the kingship. Very powerful. And I loved poor little Idril's initial reaction. The gift of the new harp was wonderful. And Idril's joy at being a princess was very cute. She did turn out to be a nice little device, didn't she. Great job. I hope you do more First Age fics. There are so few of them and I love those characters.
Rose B. · 14 December 2004 · Chapter 6: Of A Royal Line
What a wonderful blend of Silm and Little House! I honestly kept picturing the Elves in flannel shirts. And I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing. ;) But House Fingolfin is such a healthy family, and I think you've captured the dynamic between the two Noldor clans very well. I was actually able to stay fairly detached from the amputation scene, but you did describe the rescue very well--and Thorondor! Wow! Beautiful style, beautiful setting, excellent gap-filling... all in all, a great story, Pony. I think you struck just the right mix of heart-warming, horrifying, awe-inspiring, and foreboding. Thanks for sharing. :)
daw the minstrel · 13 December 2004 · Chapter 6: Of A Royal Line
Stunning as the moment was when Maedhros surrendered the High Kingship to Fingolfin, I think the big procession approaching was what really would have stopped me in my tracks! At first, I thought geez, isn't that just like the sons of Feanor. Big show, no sense, no consideration. But then I had to eat my words when I found out what they had come to do. I'm glad for Fingon's sake. I have to admit I have wondered how the kingship passed among the Noldor. There are some interesting sideways jogs there. Maedhros's words about how now he could fulfill his vow to regain the Silmarils struck me as a bit forboding.
Karri · 13 December 2004 · Chapter 6: Of A Royal Line
A wonderful story! You have done an oustanding job of developing these character into rounded, credible, personable (some moreso than others) people. I enjoyed the tale very much. :-)
Raksha The Demon · 10 December 2004 · Chapter 4: The Grief Of Love
Ouchie! I never thought how physically grueling it would be for Fingon to cut off Maedhros' hand. You wrote the scene very well; and it can't have been easy. That Fingon is one gutsy elf!
perelleth · 8 December 2004 · Chapter 5: With Only One Wing
I had missed the last two chapters, so it has been quite un update for me! I know it sounds funny but for me the whole piece, even the very rescue, has a peaceful air, something of introspective, reflective mood, as if seen from a distance but through potent binoculars, which helps concentrate our sight in those particular details that tell the tale of family affection, friendship, loyalty and duty. These are good people, who had made terrible mistakes but who still are a good and caring people. I think this is the powerful feeling that lies within, both the tragedy and the hope that they might recover. Congratulations, and specially for some things: Idril, who serves as a cute catalyst for conflicted feelings (mainly Turgon's and Fingon's ) The gory description of Maedhros' rescue (still gives me the shivers), I read it very quickly and then I thought "wow, I had never considered he would need to do THAT!!!" Well thought I think!. The HARP QUESTION! brilliant! (more than twenty years had I wondered about that!)and a SANE MAEDHROS!! that's truly a piece of good news! as much as this sensible Fingon. I hope they both continue to heal in this gentle way. They deserve it.
Karri · 7 December 2004 · Chapter 5: With Only One Wing
Very good! The sibling support was nicely done, and I greatly enjoyed the reunion between Fingon and Maedhros. The mention of Curufin crafting him a new hand was a nice touch -- the skill of the Feanorians was such that he just might have managed moving finger. :-)
elliska · 7 December 2004 · Chapter 5: With Only One Wing
I really liked the conversation between Fingon and Maedhros. That was really good character interaction--there is so much history between those two, not the least of which was Maedhros' rescue. You covered that most immediate topic well but you captured the past--the abandonment on the ice--well too. Good dialague there. Good portrayal of the emotions. I also liked little Idril. Good way to get Fingon's most personal thoughts on what he'd done--the most basic level that you could really only communicate with a child because interactions with adults are too complex. This had to be one of the most difficult chapters to write but I think it was the best so far in this story. Really good job.
daw the minstrel · 6 December 2004 · Chapter 5: With Only One Wing
I was so happy to see this update because I really wanted something good to read tonight. Fingon seems to be healing in more ways than one. I like the observation that because he's home, he has his family to help him. The visit to the cousins must have helped too. Your Maedhros is much more reasonable than the one we usually see in fanfic but he's still cursed, poor thing. But then, they all are really. As always, I like Idril. You do a nice job with this large cast, keeping everyone around and in sight.
elliska · 30 November 2004 · Chapter 4: The Grief Of Love
Yeap, that chapter needed the warning alright! :) Absolutely gruesome and realistic. But not just the physical actions--the emotional ones as well. Very well done. I think Fingon would be deeply affected by having to maim (sp?)his dear friend in such a way to save him. Losing a hand back then, especially the right one, meant not using a bow again and possibly not using a sword as well (though we know Tolkien says Maedhros came to wield his sword with his left hand as mightily as he had with his right). Not to mention how just plain horrible it would be to cause that kind of suffering to one you love. I think Fingon's reaction to what he did was right on. And if anything, I think Fingolfin's was restrained. Sure his son did something that would be sung about but geez, that was one hell of a risk. I think I'd hug my kid and then beat him senseless for running off alone to Morgoth's stronghold! Of course these are grown kids (except Idril) but Fingolfin is the lord of his House. And he shows it here well. I like the detail of Fingon apologizing for leaving the harp but telling Idril it helped save a life and Idril being worried that Fingon would feel she betrayed him. That shows, for lack of a better word, their humanity very well and their family bond. Great job.
daw the minstrel · 29 November 2004 · Chapter 4: The Grief Of Love
The hand hacking was really gruesome, as I knew it would be. I think it's realistic that Fingon is almost overcome by the horror of what he did, even though he did rescue Maedhros. He feels guilty instead of triumphant. As I say, that's realistic, but it's also odd and a sign of something good about Fingon, I think. I was interested in the way Fingolfin plainly rules his house, even though his children are adults. I see that as realistic too, given that Tolkien says elves were organized into houses. Their families were their political units in a way. As I read this, I kept thinking about the tragedies that lie in the future for these people. Only Idril comes to a more or less happy ending.
Karri · 29 November 2004 · Chapter 4: The Grief Of Love
A very intense chapter. Nicely written.
Eriala · 28 November 2004 · Chapter 3: Being Brave And Hardy
Wonderful! Everything has so much depth and detail and seems just how I pictured it. All the characters seem so real and alive and...how they should be. And Idril was very cute, of course. Interesting idea about how he got the harp - I never understood why he would of brought one, and it makes sense. Can't wait to read more!
Karri · 23 November 2004 · Chapter 3: Being Brave And Hardy
Oh, I enjoyed this chapter very much! The encounter between Idril and Fingon is delightful, but I especially enjoyed all the family dynamics in this. Wonderful work! :-)