Reviews (89)

Dwim · 2 July 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Meckinock has a deft hand at characterization, which is definitely needed when writing Denethor. Very few Denethors get my attention as having that combination of haughtiness, confidence, envy, and latent fragility, all wrapped up in a sharp intellect. Meckinock's does, and shows himself to have not simply intelligence but a genuine, ironic wit where appropriate. Denethor's general dislike of Thorongil, his recognition of an eerily kindred soul in his least favorite captain, is well portrayed, right down to the moment of weakness when dislike combines with insistent curiosity to provoke deception. Denethor is out to learn the truth of the man, who fascinates him as only a puzzle can, whether mechanical or living. At the same time, it's a disavowed fascination, but one that breaks through uneasily at times. No doubt this is why Denethor ends up on the path to discussion of love lives with Thorongil—well, that, and the fact that for the moment at least, Thorongil is at his mercy and so in a way, less threatening. I'm also quite intrigued by Denethor's characterization of Finduilas – I've seen many different presentations of her, but this one stands out. It's only a portrait, and given at one remove, but it is revealing and also tantalizing. Denethor clearly does know himself and also her, and knows in some sense that it would be a mistake, perhaps, to marry her—but as with his little white lie to Thorongil, it is a mistake he will be unable to avoid. All this, and there are only two chapters. Hurry up and post more of it, please! I am curious to know who will make it out alive, in what the conversation about love will issue, and how Denethor is going to resolve the fiction his curiosity has landed him in.

Anonymous · 13 April 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

More please!!

perelleth · 1 March 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

YOu write these outdoors scenes so wonderfully that I always swear I have been in the place you are describing. I really admire that talent of yours. ANd then Denethor is so believable in this younger version... Curt yet efficient, thouhtful and fair in his own way... and practical towards the higher good, in his case duty. I think all the drivers that lead him are so clearly pictured here, that the character study comes out as so deep, in an action packed story. I loved that Denethor succumbed to curiosity and then lied. I fervently expected that from him, it was the only thing that made sense, great! And I really loved the image of the changeling! I was half expecting the cuckoo, and then you go and put that mithological detail that, in my opinion, fits perfectly well. You are wondrously talented, meckinock. I am always awed by the many layers in your chapters. It is well worth and more the time and effort!

Agape4Gondor · 22 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Oh! And yet my heart died when Denethor lied... phew...

Dot · 15 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Great chapter! You had me reeled straight back in. I like how Denethor just immediately sets about trying to get down to Thorongil. There’s no waiting for others or ordering anyone else to do it – he just jumps right in. And he manages to make Cirion focus on specific tasks too and not on the figure on the riverbank. Lucky that Thorongil is so well-equipped… *fans self* I actually quite admire the way Denethor swallows his impatience and takes time to give instructions and remind Cirion that he is able for the task. He’s a good leader, though we see the seed of intolerance there already. I love the fact that Thorongil carries his own healing kit! And that he’d know what to do with it even if the one rescuing him wouldn’t. I wonder if Denethor ever thought to ask him where he learned his healing skills? […] and as anticipated ran out of rope before he ran out of rock. I love that line. I was afraid that would happen but it doesn’t seem to stop Denethor. My heart was still in my mouth, though, as he all but threw himself off the cliff. Where in the name of Moses is Cirion gone with the rope?? I know Denethor waved his arm a bit earlier than he should have but surely Cirion could see he hadn’t reached Thorongil yet. I’m assuming he wasn’t really killed by orcs… :-/ I’m cringing here at Thorongil’s injuries. Bad author. Er, I mean orcs. But I do love your descriptions of the landscape. I’m so envious of people who can bring it alive like that. I found myself smiling at their first conversation. Thorongil obviously doesn’t have all his wits about him if he’s asking Denethor what he’s doing there. What I particularly like is that there’s this sense that the two of them just don’t really like each other. I can’t really put my finger on it but feels as though they normally go out of the way to avoid each other, when not being antagonistic, and they both know they do, and are now suddenly stuck with each other. I’m getting worried about these orcs that Denethor keeps imagining will kill them all. Not exactly an optimist, is he? That was nicely done, by the way. He’s practical, but you can see hints of darkness in his thoughts. I really loved how Denethor opens up to Thorongil so that we get a glimpse of how feels. I was grinning away at his assessment of Thorongil’s “breeding” and then he said “but I fear that in time she will find the price of loving me too high” and I felt suddenly quite sorry for him. I found Denethor’s thoughts on how alike he and Thorongil are very interesting. I suppose if they had been completely dissimilar then Thorongil’s popularity wouldn’t have mattered so much to him, but to see someone so like himself become so loved by everyone, including his father, must make Denethor question his own self-worth. Good thing for Denethor that Thorongil is just some foreigner without a drop of decent blood, eh? :-) It must be hard for Denethor to love someone and know that he’s loved in return and yet know that she might not always be so happy. He’s quite perceptive, really, to know that she might waste away in Minas Tirith. But I suppose that’s her choice. It’s easy for us to blame him, knowing some of what becomes of her but if she loves him would she not be less happy to have her freedom but a broken heart? Ok, getting soppy now so I’ll stop… What’s interesting too to me is that Thorongil (I keep wanting to put his name in inverted commas) might face similar questions many years in the future. One of the best parts, I thought, was this and the conversation that followed: “And when Gondor falls, who then will stand? What is Gondor to you, but a place to earn your fame and glory? You fought under Thengel’s banner, now Ecthelion’s. Soon, some other fortune will beckon you, and Gondor will become nothing to you but a fading memory. Where will you be when the army of Mordor comes marching forth from the Black Gate to knock at the gates of Minas Tirith? Whose banner will you fight under then?” Oh, Meckinock. That was excellent. Not only do we as readers want to knock Denenthor’s head against the wall but you can see his mind working. In some ways it’s almost a childish bitterness – I love Gondor more than you do – but you can also see how frustrating it is to him that he knows nothing of this man who captured everyone’s hearts and claims to want to do what’s best for Gondor and yet might disappear again any day. Right now he’s resented if he stays and he’ll be reviled if he goes. And then that simple answer that’s not so simple at all, especially for those who don’t have it – Hope. That brought tears to my eyes. Oh good lord, he lied about having the pouch! The prospect of acquiring some knowledge about Thorongil was apparently too great a temptation. The little story about the puzzle was very telling – Denethor’s is a mind that sees links and connections and likes the pieces to fall into place. And he’ll twist and turn them until they do. I’m so afraid of what he’s going to do now. But how interesting that he blames Mithrandir. He’s obviously never had much love for the wizard… If he had not done so, he would have missed the unmistakable glint of firelight reflecting off the surface of the river, just around the downstream bend. Wha…? Meckinock! Tell us what’s around the bend! I really enjoyed this chapter. It’s full of things to think about. Sorry the review is a bit rushed and all over the place – I’m pretending to work and keep having to go away from this when people want me to help them. Very frustrating! So what did you say was around the bend?

The Karenator · 14 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

I think my favorite part is at the end of this chapter when Denethor reasons out why Thorongil is educated and moves easily among his 'betters': a pet project of Mithrandir, sent to infiltrate the steward's inner circle with an eye on influencing policy. Boy, Denethor never did like that wizard guy, did he? The seeds of Denethor's insatiable curiosity that took him to the Palantir were planted nicely in his overwhelming need to solve the puzzle of Thorongil's little lock box. His motives are understandable in both cases. However, one, we know, led to his downfall. The results of this new exploration remains to be seen. I can see Denethor as a man who was so duty bound he thought that any and all secrets were his to explore if it meant the safety of Gondor, a trait we see later in Boromir. Where Thorongil is concerned, he has the added worry of spying and the possibility of Thorongil having his father's ear over his. Ecthelion may never be willing to ignore Thorongil's base lineage, but such matters wouldn't stop Denethor's father from being influenced by Thorongil. Yep, Denethor has something to worry about, only it's not what he thinks. Denethor's confessions about his love for Findulas were actually kind of sweet. He's aware enough to know she may only think she'll be happy as his wife, but reality will be bitter. But then, Tolkien said Denethor had keen insight and in this case, though we don't know the reason for Findulas's death, Denethor was right. Something went wrong, even if it was disease or childbirth that took her. I can't recall if Tolkien said she was despondent or something else that alluded to her being unhappy, but I don't think he told us the cause of death either. At any rate, your take fits nicely with this mystery and with Denethor's foresight. A nice chewy chapter, Ranger. Lots to think about. Now, I'm waiting to see what light reflects on the water. Really, really good.

obsidianj · 12 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Thorongil and Denethor are really two of a kind, so similar and still so different. I loved the conversation between Denethor and Thorongil. When they are back in civilization, I figure that Denethor will not be too comfortable with what he said to Thorongil. But he went over the line when he took the ring. I guess he will find a way to give it back to Thorongil without officially owning up to the fact that he took it in the first place. I really like the way you characterize Denethor. I love his way at looking towards Finduilas, trying to protect her from herself (but ultimately failing).

fliewatuet · 12 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

... ran out of rope before he ran out of rock That's certainly my favourite line :-) But the rest isn't bad either. Interesting scene between Denethor and Thorongil. First, there is probably none other than Thorongil to better understand Denethor's doubts about his marriage to Finduilas and what that might cost her. Most unfortunate that he cannot talk openly about it. Then there is the tone of their conversation. I love Thorongil's silent amusement. The whole scene could almost be one between two good friends. Almost. I wonder what Denethor will make of Thorongil's ring. And, of course, I wonder how they will get back to safety (somehow I doubt that Cirion and the slave were killed; Denethor did wave his arm, after all, if a bit prematurely).

Grumpy · 12 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Ack!! Denathor has the ring. No, no, no put it back. Denethor should be thinking of the ring he needs to put arround his lady's finger, so he can have little Boramir. Great chapter, I love the dialog between a vexed Denethor and a crumped and broken Thorongil. "What are you doing here." I love that.

French Pony · 11 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

What a devilishly uncomfortable situation for both men to be in. There's just something about being out in the cold with no one else around that makes confessions inevitable, even if one doesn't really like the person to whom one is confessing. Poor Denethor. First the annoyance of going after Thorongil, then having to take care of him, then finding themselves alone and in some danger, and now this mysterious ring. This is not a good day for the Steward's son.

Raksha The Demon · 11 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Uh-oh; nosy Denethor's found the Ring of Barahir! Why didn't Aragorn leave it in Imladris, I wonder, or with the Northern Dunedain? Wonderful characterisation of both Aragorn and Denethor. Denethor is noble here, perceptive about Finduilas but loving her and respecting her integrity enough to let her love him instead of casting her off. And it's good and right of him to try to save a man he distrusts. But he's gone over the line in prying into Thorongil's property. Can't wait to see the next chapter, and finding out the source of the firelight!

Redheredh · 11 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Your take on Denethor is simply great. He is a someone burdened with a serious nature (and commitment), but unfortunately possessed of a sense of humor. Necessarily turned dry. Someone who is vulnerable to human emotions like everyone else, but out of necessity has armoured himself against human weakness. Hmm, sound like someone else we know? What Denethor needs is a better sense of balance... or perhaps as suggested... hope? Maybe if *he* had been raised by elves... Appears if Denethor had no reason to be jealous, only envious, of Thorongil, then they might find the needed basis for a personal trust between them. As it is, the necessities of war dictates who your friends are, but you still needs to know who your real friends are. And declaring a truce has only confused the situation for the poor Captain-General. ;) Thorongil is too thoughtful, too closed of counsel, too much in control of himself (even in bad straits) for Denethor not to take advantage of any opportunity that comes along to suss out the *ahem* mere mercenary. Seems falling prey to plain old curiosity has very little part to do with a prince turning a bit of a shady trick. What would he do with a illegitimate half-brother? Would that person fit into his society and view of the world more comfortably? Good on ya, though, for having Denethor care (worry) about Findulas's possibly short-sighted passion. Although, one can certainly tell he is flattered by it enough to elicit another's knowing opinion of his romantic circumstances and noble compassion. However, that move only opened the door to a even more irritating subject - the answer to who this foreigner really is. Will Denethor recognize the ring when he gets a good look at it? How much communication was there between the north and south lands of men at this time? Did any know that the Dunedain of the north even existed as anything but the Rangers? Yeah yeah, so I really like this story. Although, there is not any one scene or quote that I would bother to point out in particular. Because, that would be every single word. So glad you have discovered the good virtues of bad - aristocratic - boys.

Imaginigma · 11 February 2007 · Chapter 1: The Missing Man

Blimey, a new story by you. How wonderful! That made my day. *huge grin* I am so glad to see you write about Denethor; although I am not a great fan of him and have read few stories that feature him so far, his history is quite fascinating and one has to wonder how he was before he was driven insane. And of course we have Aragorn in here, an injured Aragorn none the less. What more does a readers heart desire? So, on to chapter two, I suppose. Jipee! Imaginigma :o)

Nilmandra · 11 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Denethor's rescue was a brave thing to do, given all the circumstances. He put himself into harm's way, despite his position as future steward, which I think fits in nicely with Tolkien who had leaders lead from the front. I did not envy him the drop down that cliff. Thorongil is in rather bad shape. I love the self-diagnosis and that Denethor just did what he was told to help him. Since I'm cold myself, the cave sounds brutally more cold. I wouldn't want to be them. Denthor's temptation about the ring was something. I the one hand, I can see him thinking if this gave him clues to who Thorongil really was, then it was his duty to look. But I don't think Denethor lies to himself. He just wants to know. That he would let Thorongil think it lost was unkind, to the say the least. And now I'm wondering who is around the riverbend, friend or foe?

Bodkin · 11 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Naughty Denethor! But I can just see him investigating Thorongil's treasure - he is someone who prizes knowledge as power. Just as he is behaving in a really rather nice and heroic way, too, and proving that there is more to him than the later deranged Steward driven beyond his endurance by a Palantir. I do love what he revealed of his fears for Finduilas - seeing him as someone who is able even to think about sacrificing himself for someone else's happiness gives him a whole other dimension! Even if it does chime in with his rather excessive self-assurance. - Finduilas, of course, can't have any say in the matter herself. Not even to the point of having the problem explained to her, so that she can think about it. There is just a suggestion here that they could move beyond their differences to a sort of friendship. Just as long as Thorongil acknowledges his inferiority, that is, as a non-Numenorean without the proper lineage. But I don't think it will take Denethor long to work out that the rivalry between them is based on more than Thorongil's capabilities as a captain. It's great to see Denethor as an all-action hero, though. And fingers crossed for an understanding between the two of them - even if it is to prove short-lived.

daw the minstrel · 11 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Two of a kind indeed. The parallel you draw between the loves of the two men is illuminating for both of them, I think. I had to laugh at Denethor's thought that even Ecthelion couldn't bestow the proper heritage on Thorongil. I held my breath (two breaths, I guess) when Denethor was deciding not to say he had the chain and pouch. But I can't stand the thought of them spending the night outside in just a cloak or two blankets. It's so cold!

Gandalfs apprentice · 11 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Great conversation between the two! One question: Don't you think people in Gondor would have recognized Numenorean blood in Captain Thorongil? I don't think he could hide that very successfully.

Linda Hoyland · 11 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Two of a Kind

Little does Denethor know that Thorongil has far bluer blood than he does does ! You portray the difficult,uneasy relationship between these two brilliantly as well as the cold and the surroundings.A first rate story.I eagerly await more.

Redheredh · 22 January 2007 · Chapter 1: The Missing Man

I usually do not pursue Aragorn stories. So, shoot me. But, this had a younger Denethor in it and I do have a soft spot in my heart for the tragic fellow. Man oh man, I am glad I read this. This is great writing and a wonderful treatment of the man that becomes the Steward of Gondor during the War of the Ring. I am really looking forward to the next installment. No problem with Aragorn remaining the elusive object of the Captain-general's adventure and angst. :)

Dot · 21 January 2007 · Chapter 1: The Missing Man

That has to be one of the best openings to a story! I love hungover Denethor. And in just a few lines you’ve got across the general damp misery of the place. Not to mention Denethor’s distinct lack of fondness for the more charismatic Thorongil. It apparently didn’t help that it was in toasting Thorongil that Denethor acquired this headache :-) I’m going to admit that I don’t generally seek out Denethor stories but I really like your take on him. He’s a very real person, sort of dark and sardonic… not quite cynical but almost. But he has his own sense of duty and of what’s right. I get the impression that he’s probably liked well enough but compares himself to Thorongil more than others probably do. You can see how he could be liked and how he could be a great leader, but also how paranoia and the desire for knowledge and power could lead him astray. I like Turgon. Not so much as a person but as a character. He’s a great bit of relief, completely saucy and disrespectful. He seems to have a good enough heart and is deeply loyal, but I need to be persuaded that he wouldn’t look after number one first. Very interesting view of Finduilas! LOL. Denethor is such a strategist that he sees connections everywhere, whether they’re real or not. I find myself really wanting to meet Finduilas and see if she and her family are just as he suggests… I kind of feel sorry for Denethor here. I get the feeling he loves her but is over-thinking it and genuinely doesn’t seem to believe that he can act on love alone. He tries to do the right thing but tries so hard that it ends up going wrong. There is only one heart that I refuse to cede to Thorongil – the Steward’s. Ouch. That’s a glimpse of very real pain in Denethor and it’s very moving. He thinks so sourly of how Thorongil has captivated everyone but it’s genuine hurt that Ecthelion is so enamoured by him. What a pity that he doesn’t seem to be able to do anything about it other than let that turn to bitterness. I love reading about Thorongil from Denethor’s POV. He comes across as a right pain in the ass to command. A teeny tiny part of me was actually hoping Denethor could find him and drag him home where he could keep an eye on him while maintaining appearances to all those in Minas Tirith! Me, I’d have left him to his orcs. Except that he’s managed to enchant me too and we haven’t even met him yet… And aha, it turns out that Throrongil wasn’t just being wilful – it was slaves, not orcs that led him to disobey. I like how you have Denethor reluctantly admit to himself that Thorongil had good reason and wasn’t usually so disobedient, even if he was bloody annoying in his general and acclaimed, uh, fabulousness. It was a very chilling insight too into the world that they live in now with the slaves being taken to Sauron and apparently not escaping for long if they even managed at all. Denethor’s reaction of “compassion mingling with disgust” was a very human one, I thought. And what tension you have building in the second half of the story! You can see what a good leader and soldier Denethor is. He might get frustrated but he seems more at ease when confronted with things he can try and do something about. “Cirion,” he said slowly, “whose horse is that?” The boy took in a hitching breath answered without taking his eyes off the animal. “Captain Thorongil’s.” Oh my God. I went cold at that! The boy’s shock and dread really came across. Denethor seems to have got himself into quite a situation, with a dead horse, a horrified boy and a terrified slave. And now it seems that Thorongil has gone over a cliff. Someone needs to go rescue him, don’t you think? This is fantastic, Meckinock. I was so excited to see a new story from you. And as always, I’m eagerly looking forward to more :-)

grumpy · 20 January 2007 · Chapter 1: The Missing Man

Oh joy, oh joy, another story by you. You have made my day, and I have taken my time reading and enjoying the first chapter. Poor Denethor, he has his problems, and not all brought on by the ale he drank last night. Must have gauled him to left so many glasses in Thorongil's name. Plus he has lady troubles too. Meanwhile Thorongil (Aka Aragorn), has taken to flying off of cliffs. Maybe it is the water down below that holds the attraction for him. Felt in need of a drink or a bath. Looking forward to more.

Bodkin · 20 January 2007 · Chapter 1: The Missing Man

Poor Denethor. The idea of the golden boy turning up and winning everybody's love and admiration is much sadder when you see it from Denethor's side of the fence. And especially so when you see him fearing that the one heart that matters to him most - his father's - is being offered to Thorongil. And I love the way he is up to all the twists and turns that might follow his deciding to leave the dilatory Thorongil out there in the field to enjoy Mettare in the mud. Maybe he's just a little too aware of all the potential political ramifications - but then again, maybe he has reason. On the other hand, I rather hope that he is at least a bit concerned about his relationship with his future wife! And that he is slowing down enough to allow himself to be caught. Especially if he is about to feel the weight of Dol Amroth's wrath towards one toying with the loyalties of its princess! Turgon is a little - direct, I think, for Denethor's taste. But if he's in the family, he's in the family! (I wonder if he manages to be a good deal more suave and charming with the ladies. Not at all impossible.) But action-Denethor! Riding off to the rescue and helping save unhygienic slaves - and shadows of another cliff-top adventure! I hope Thorongil isn't down the bottom of the drop being snogged by another horse. (Although that was the best part of that interlude by far!) Loved this. And, what is more, was very pleased to see the 'in progress' tag! I'm looking forward to furthering my acquaintance with pre-Palantir Denethor!

jack bauer · 19 January 2007 · Chapter 1: The Missing Man

A new Meckinock story. I just might die of happiness. (Yes, this review served major constructive criticism, noteworthy praise, and otherwise useful feedback purposes, I know.)

Linda Hoyland · 19 January 2007 · Chapter 1: The Missing Man

What a treat to find a new story from you. Great writing,I felt as if I were there and you have me worried about Aragorn.

Anonymous · 19 January 2007 · Chapter 1: The Missing Man

A new story! By yoooooouuu! *does a dance* I believe that adequately sums up my feelings at the moment.