The Eagle on the Ramparts by Canafinwe
Gnome · 23 December 2016 · Chapter 24: First Lieutenant
Forgive me for asking but are you by any chance a published author? Or, do you have an educational or work background that intersects with medieval history? I ask because your ability to convincingly write these characters' thoughs and considerations of their surrounding world, within their settings and ways of thinking is really amazing. I've read real historical fiction authors who are nowhere near as good as you are here.
cynewulf · 10 December 2016 · Chapter 24: First Lieutenant
I'm really just astounded by how much careful thought and consideration has gone into this story, and indeed all your stories. You seem to weigh each characters' inner feelings, thoughts, motivations, priorities, memories/experiences, upbringing, and habits in order to inform every action they undergo and line they utter. And when it comes the original or minor characters, or situations where for Aragorn and Denethor there is not enough canon information to tell us how they would act and feel and think, you extrapolate and invent explanations and facts and backgrounds that are compelling, believable, and logical. Just...the amount of deliberate attention and analysis, that so evidently is the source of your characterization decisions is a rare treat for the reader - so pleasurable and satisfying. Also, the amount of research you must've done about how medieval life and military/political structures worked is amazing! Like the characterization, it adds a level of verisimilitude that really enhances and and deepens the story and the feel for the setting.
obsidianj · 12 November 2016 · Chapter 24: First Lieutenant
Poor Jamon! I think he does a great job that he hasn't revealed that he is a guardsman of Gondor. He knows nothing of subterfuge and spying. It is difficult to keep lying in such close quarters without stumbling. At least now he might get the support of Thorongil. Minardil is a great captain. He utilizes the capabilities of his subordinates as much as he can, which is a mark of a great leader. It doesn't really matter where you learned the skill. Now he knows that Thorongil commanded a thousand man, he is trying to learn as much as he can about leading from an expert.
obsidianj · 12 November 2016 · Chapter 23: None Shall Be Pleased
No one is is pleased in this chapter. You chose the title well. I don't think Denethor grasps that Herion is not the only one taking a chapter from his treatment of people. "Do as I say, not as I do" does not work. People that admire Denethor will follow his example and not so much his words as we see in Herion.
Larner · 1 November 2016 · Chapter 24: First Lieutenant
Oh, yes, he does have Aragorn's experience on which to lean, or he does at least for now. I look forward to seeing how well he learns from his new Lieutenant as their joint guidance for the Tenth Company goes forward. And at least Jamon has assurance that his love will have word that he has not sought to avoid her company! Poor Jamon--what a situation for him to find himself in! And I hope Jamon takes heart from Minardil and Thorongil's intervention and support.
Rowanfair · 31 October 2016 · Chapter 24: First Lieutenant
May it be, that in those now unfolding events we get a glimpse on what will lead to that incomprehensible unexplained hate Denethor acts out on Thorongil in your short story “The Sell-Sword and the Prince”?
someone · 29 October 2016 · Chapter 24: First Lieutenant
When Minardil went to see the prisoner, I was afraid he would accidentally destroy the whole plan. That might still happen, but just maybe this will work and Jamon will succeed and Denethor will be happy. Maybe. It is a relief for both Thorongil and a reader to see Mallor awake and able to speak. He really has reason to be grateful, as is clear from his list of things that could have gone wrong. It was interesting that he remembered Thorongil calling him - but what exactly did he see and understand? If in similar conditions Faramir recognized the king, did Thorongil look different enough that Mallor wouldn't know him? It will be interesting to see if he mentions it ever again. Minardil is a good man, but a bit too eager to trust a man, who has been a commander in a very different culture, to understand how to run a company in a Gondorian city. I'm glad to see that you have started to write again, it has been a treat to read so many new chapters.
Mere Yom · 29 October 2016 · Chapter 24: First Lieutenant
Minardil has been quickly learning the skill held by his new officer. And now he suspects one more skill: could Thorongil teach Joman how to get information from the Easterling? I suspect that Ecthelion will be glad that Thorongil becomes involved (albiet indirectly) with this investigation. But what will Denethor know? Will he learn of Thorongil's involvement? Be careful, Aragorn! These rapid updates are a delight. Thank you so much, Canafinwe, for returning to this story.
shirebound · 29 October 2016 · Chapter 24: First Lieutenant
Thorongil is learning such valuable lessons, such as "I sought to avoid the pitfalls of pride. Instead I stumbled into the ravine of over-humbleness." This is a very insightful and interesting story.
UTfrog · 29 October 2016 · Chapter 24: First Lieutenant
The more Thorongil tried to hide his skills, the faster they come to light. Great work! Am really enjoying the story. Hope you keep feeling better.
UTfrog · 27 October 2016 · Chapter 23: None Shall Be Pleased
Great chapter, but scary in several forebodings. I feel sorry for all our heroes.
Larner · 27 October 2016 · Chapter 23: None Shall Be Pleased
Well, a lesser Man Herion has definitely proved himself, and the punishment is in keeping with his pettiness. And now Thorongil has his proper place within the Tenth Company, and soon enough he will have that within the whole of the company of the Guards of Minas Tirith. This may not be pleasing to Denethor, but true skill and humility will win out in the end. Now, to learn what Jamon learns within the dungeons of the Citadel!
Larner · 27 October 2016 · Chapter 22: Unsanctioned Deeds
I see Herion is seeking to emulate the Warden of the White Tower, but does not have even Denethor's innate nobility to go with the attitude. Certainly he doesn't have Ecthelion to correct him, and I doubt he would defer to Minardil as Denethor does to his father. At least he has managed to do what he can for now for Mallor, who will most likely recover even more than Durion at this point. Deflecting the surgeon's suspicion was most deftly indeed done, and I'm proud of him, I must say. And he has the sword that found him back in hand, and can now return the one loaned him by Minardil. As for Jamon--he's obviously being abused, and is being threatened by someone, or perhaps his lady is being threatened if he manages to be in a position to reveal what is going on in his situation. Am glad you are back and recovering your stride after whatever ill kept you from us for a time. It's a joy to read your writing once more.
Rowanfair · 27 October 2016 · Chapter 23: None Shall Be Pleased
High vs. Low... there it is again, that seemingly endless obstacle in human life. I try to imagine how a truely “mere” guardsman of the Tenth might try to call his highest superiors attention to the unjust behaviour “Ecthelion´s follies” face. Given that even a commander of thousands has his difficulties to raise this subject, knowing quite well he´s addressing a superior willing to listen. This whole new chapter is carving the edges of exactly that theme in many subtle ways. Be it poor Jamon, hopelessly trying to shake off his captain-generals frightening requirement, or a Herion, having to face "unexpected" anger and penalty. “Let lesser man behave like lesser man” – well, one might raise ones doubts about that certain point of view, remembering some incidents have to/having come out of the very persons meddling who states this. Honour and respect to be developed by effort instead of being given based on rank; it seems not only in MiddleEarth this remains wishful thinking… ...much to chew on... thanks again for sharing!
someone · 26 October 2016 · Chapter 23: None Shall Be Pleased
Denethor managed to surprise in this chapter. First he had the prisoner treated decently, and then he didn't let Herion off the hook concerning the sword. His way of thinking about "lesser men" doesn't credit him, though. He probably wouldn't have approved of Faramir's marriage. It was a good thing that only Ecthelion was present at the confession. If even he had trouble understanding Thorongil's motives, then there is no way Denethor could have understood or approved. Now that the secret is out, I hope we will see Minardil's (or Herion's!) reaction. Poor Jamon. First he has been beaten by the other guards, and then he has to go to prison and deceive his countryman. Forgil is such a nice man. Even though he just occasionally appears in this story, I really like him.
Bitsay · 26 October 2016 · Chapter 23: None Shall Be Pleased
I am enjoying this immensely, and thank you so much for sharing such an engaging story. I thought all the amazing writers had left Middle Earth. So glad I'm wrong! x
Camp6311 · 25 October 2016 · Chapter 21: No Mere Guardsman
So happy to see this story updated! Impeccably written as always. I liked the master healer, willing to put pride and ego aside to gain new knowledge for Gondor regardless of the source.
shirebound · 25 October 2016 · Chapter 23: None Shall Be Pleased
Ecthelion had oft times wondered, in his youth, whether he would have merited such deference from his Captains and his men had he not been born the son of the Steward. He thought he understood the need to measure oneself anew. This is a very insightful way to help Ecthelion understand Thorongil's motives. And I very much like this: "a good man is worth his price. If this is yours, you may have it."
someone · 24 October 2016 · Chapter 22: Unsanctioned Deeds
"Unsanctioned deeds", indeed, by both Thorongil and Minardil. Minardil didn't have to give a sword unofficially or to to worry about Jamon, and Thorongil wasn't supposed to spend time in surgery. Midhon seems to have beeen right when he feared gossip in the Houses, as apparently everyone knows now about Thorongil and his skills, to the point of even the Master of the Houses (almost) deferring to him. However, it is nice that there is something new for Thorongil, even if it is just a way to restrain a patient. The different smells of different kinds of infection are something that I'd never imagined learning from fanfic. Hopefully Mallor will survive now. Herion has finally showed his true colors, when meeting Thorongil without witnesses. I doubt now that he is Denethor's spy, as he surely wouldn't employ one with as little sublety as Herion. By the way, thank you for including the encounter with the lice. The memory seems to remain in Thorongil's mind as one of nearly unsurpassed horror.
obsidianj · 23 October 2016 · Chapter 22: Unsanctioned Deeds
Yay, Thorongil got his sword back. But Herion is a nasty piece of work. And what happened to Jamon? Seems he had an encounter with another "Herion".
vardasvapors · 23 October 2016 · Chapter 22: Unsanctioned Deeds
I am so glad to see this story updated! It is going along wonderfully. I really love your thoughtful, detailed characterization and description of the characters' thoughts and feelings as they go through the plot. I am even more impressed with the amazing amount of research that must have gone into this - from ancient medical and military practices to aspects of day-to-day life in society, such as the bit with the soap. It's so immersive and enjoyable to read. Excellent stuff!
Rowanfair · 23 October 2016 · Chapter 22: Unsanctioned Deeds
Many thanks for another wonderful chapter! I appreciated that one a lot! And no worries concerning review replies - as long as you continue that story I am quite content ;-) Bit curious about Jamon´s whereabouts as well as Herions (un)loyalties. Guess Thorongils performance at the houses of healing won´t go unnoticed now.. He will have difficulties "hiding" in 2nd circle any longer. And the sword is back! :-)
shirebound · 23 October 2016 · Chapter 22: Unsanctioned Deeds
The amount of restraint and sheer willpower it must take to remain civil and humble in the face of these events is such a testament to Thorongil's inner strength. You show it to us beautifully in every encounter.
UTfrog · 22 October 2016 · Chapter 22: Unsanctioned Deeds
How wonderful to have a quick update! Poor Thorongil! He saves a life, is worn out, shivering, and then has to put up with a jealous man. Yet, he has his sword. Thank you
Larner · 22 October 2016 · Chapter 21: No Mere Guardsman
The Master of the Houses recognizes a teacher when that teacher comes to him, and Denethor stands reproved by his father. And Thorongil will receive back his sword. Well, well done.