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The Silmarillion

Official Voting Ballot



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First Age

S1-1: A Brush with Destiny by Coriel

URL: http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=690

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Two young Elves cross paths at Sirion who will later have much to
do with each other.



First Age

S1-2: As Little Might Be Thought by Deborah Judge

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/666649 /1/

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: The development of the relationship between Maglor and his
foster-sons Elrond and Elros, from the sack of Sirion to the loss of the
Silmarils.



First Age

S1-3: Brucia la terra mia by Moralanqua

URL: http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=249

Rating: PG

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Aegnor and Angrod during the last days as Dagor Bragollach erupts
into Ard Galen.



First Age

S1-4: Dark Forge by Ithilwen

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/724460/1/

Rating: PG-13 Disturbing Images

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Maeglin's life up to the Fall of Gondolin.



First Age

S1-5: Driven By Fire by Starlight10

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/939846/1/

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: In Valinor, at the feet of the Elven lord, the grief was too strong
to be put into words; but, whose fate was indeed doomed?



First Age

S1-6: Finrod's Oath by Jmac

URL: http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=52

Rating: PG

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: A short fic about the last hours of Finrod's life as he sits within
the dungeons of Tol-in-Gaurhoth with Beren.



First Age

S1-7: Naming the Stones by Deborah Judge

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/616249/1/

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Elrond remembers the First Age, the Silmarils, and the guilt of his
people. Sequel to 'When I am Wise.'



First Age

S1-8: Pause by Sphinx

URL: http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1575&cid=6551

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: On the eve of his departure, Tuor reflects on what he must take
with him, and what he must leave behind.



First Age

S1-9: Red Dawn, Golden Flower by Viv

URL: http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=90

Rating: PG Character Death

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Glorfindel leads the refugees from a burning Gondolin and faces a
foe that he cannot overcome.



First Age

S1-10: Slouching Toward Gondolin by Fileg

URL: http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=260

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Riding to the siege of Gondolin in the belly of an iron beast - a
moment in the mind of a first-age orc.



First Age

S1-11: Steadfast by Zimraphel

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1455502/1/

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Cast up on the shores of Nevrast, Voronwe ponders his fate.



First Age

S1-12: When I Am Wise by Deborah Judge

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/609513/1/

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: At the end of the First Age, Elrond and Elros must choose between
mortality and immortality.



First Age

S1-13: White Wing by Cirdan

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1386098/1/

Rating: PG13

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Tuor tells his foster-father what he would call his house, if ever
he had one.



Incomplete

SI-1: A Veiled Light by Andreth

URL: http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=440

Rating: R some sex scenes

Romance Partners: Ilmare/Elrond/Sauron/Ereinion

Summary: A Maia is sent to Middle-earth in the Second Age and must learn to
deal with the shortcomings of a mortal body.



Incomplete

SI-2: Beneath the Light by Mouse

URL: http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=110

Rating: PG

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Maeglin in Gondlin.



Incomplete

SI-3: Fated by Nimrodel Jen

URL: http://www.ofelvesandmen.com/Stories/N/NimrodelJen/Fated1.htm

Rating: PG

Romance Partners: Amroth/Nimrodel

Summary: One version of the story of Amroth and Nimrodel.



Incomplete

SI-4: The Silmarillion in Thirty Pages or Less by Bitten Buggy

URL: http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=530

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: A summarization of Tolkien's The Silmarillion.



Incomplete

SI-5: We Were Young Once by Coriel

URL: http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1750

Rating: PG some references to violence, but nothing too graphic

Romance Partners: Thranduil & Lindoriel (his future wife)

Summary: After the fall of both Doriath and Sirion, Thranduil and his father
Oropher set out to begin a new era of their lives.



Romance

SR1: Blood and Smoke by Dargelos

URL: http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=592

Rating: R Mature Sexuality

Romance Partners: Elrond/Isildur

Summary: How alike, Men and Elves. How different.'



Romance

SR2: Fell Fire by Finch

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/713372/1/

Rating: PG

Romance Partners: Aegnor and Andreth

Summary: The sad love story of Aegnor, brother of Finrod, and the mortal
woman Andreth.



Romance

SR3: Of Gold and Wood by Ladyperedhel

URL: http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=622

Rating: PG-13

Romance Partners: Finrod/Amarie

Summary: Finrod reveals his love to Amarie.



Romance

SR4: Taming the Wildflower by Sulriel

URL: http://www.theoriginalseries.com/wildflower.htm

Rating: PG-13 Non-Explicit Romance

Romance Partners: Maedhros/OFC

Summary: This story focuses on the relationship of Maedhros and a Lady of
the House of Elwe from when they meet until their deaths before the end of
the First Age.



Romance

SR5: The Lost Tale of Dimarion and Vanyul by Gwathrenethir Nirethir (Me-Elf)


URL: http://www.tolkienonline.com/docs/11182.html

Rating: PG Mild Violence, Some Kissing (HET)

Romance Partners: M/F

Summary: Vanyul has spent much of her life laughing and playing in a river
with her friend Ulmo. When he is absent and a captive of Morgoth named
Dimarion enters her life, she is captured. Now, Ulmo must determine how to
save them both.



Romance

SR6: The Unforgettable Fire by Ithilwen

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/871577/1/

Rating: R Sex Scenes

Romance Partners: Caranthir/Haleth

Summary: The ill-fated love story of Caranthir, and the mortal woman Haleth.



Second Age

S2-1: A Last Reckoning by Nol

URL: http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3661

Rating: PG

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Ereinion Gil-galad remembers the lessons of his father, and
challenges the Enemy to a final combat above Dagorlad. Based on a verse by
Herbert Read.



Second Age

S2-2: It's In His Eyes by Larien Elensar

URL: http://www.ofelvesandmen.com/Stories/L/LarianElensar/ItsInHisEyes.htm

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Elros and Elrond have not made their choice yet. Elros chose
mortality. Maybe Celebrimbor was part of the reason.



Second Age

S2-3: Mortal Shores by Vorondis

URL:
http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter_view.cfm?STID=259&SPOrdinal=1

Rating: PG-13 N/A

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Gil-galad gets some help from Numenor against Sauron. But what is
the price?



Second Age

S2-4: Oath Renewed by Inglor

URL: http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=906

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: How did Elendil acquire a 3000 year old sword? This may also
explain Galadriel's regard for Aragorn.



Second Age

S2-5: Seashell by Nol

URL: http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1880

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Elros, on the eve of his departure to Numenor, seeks out his foster
father on the eastern shore. Of the madness of Maglor. Gapfiller, possibly
AU



S1: Cuivie by Zimraphel

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1813532/1/

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: In the twilight before the Sun and Moon, an Ent awakens to the
presence of two Elves.



S2: Eloquent Remembrance by Sphinx

URL: http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1308&cid=5970

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: On his return to Valinor, Celeborn faces his illustrious
father-in-law Finarfin, High King of the Noldor in Aman. Much conversation
ensues. Featuring Celeborn, Finarfin, and a cameo by a much loved Peredhil
lord and his lady.



S3: Gold Like Tears by Zimraphel

URL: http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=408

Rating: PG

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Spanning three Ages, the story of an ill-starred golden bead as it
passes from one hand to the next.



S4: If Women had Ruled Middle Earth by Mouse

URL: http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=39

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: From Nerdanel to Arwen, they're all there: the Halls of Mandos
Sewing Circle. And they've got a few opinions on the actions of their male
counterparts.



S5: In the Seventh Age by Deborah Judge

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/755564/1/

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: Epilogue to 'Naming the Stones' and 'As Little Might Be Thought'.
The final fate of Maglor son of Feanor.



S6: Not for Pride Alone by Zimraphel

URL: http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=453

Rating: PG-13 Some Violence

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: At Fornost, Glorfindel and Earnur of Gondor face the Witch King of
Angmar.



S7: Song of the Waters by Zimraphel

URL: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1441393/1/

Rating: G

Romance Partners: n/a

Summary: In the age of the Trees, the Teleri leave the shores of Cuivienen,
and a young Cirdan sees the Sea for the first time.



AUTHORS (remember to comment on the writer as regards to the category, not
the story, here):



SA1: Andreth

A Veiled Light



SA2: Bitten Buggy

The Silmarillion in Thirty Pages or Less



SA3: Cirdan

White Wing



SA4: Coriel

A Brush with Destiny, We Were Young Once



SA5: Dargelos

Blood and Smoke



SA6: Deborah Judge

As Little Might Be Thought, Naming the Stones, When I Am Wise, In the
Seventh Age



SA7: Fileg

Slouching Toward Gondolin



SA8: Finch

Fell Fire



SA9: Gwathrenethir Nirethir (Me-Elf)

The Lost Tale of Dimarion and Vanyul



SA10: Inglor

Oath Renewed



SA11: Ithilwen

Dark Forge, The Unforgettable Fire



SA12: Jmac

Finrod's Oath



SA13: Ladyperedhel

Of Gold and Wood



SA14: Larien Elensar

It's In His Eyes



SA15: Moralanqua

Brucia la terra mia



SA16: Mouse

Beneath the Light, If Women had Ruled Middle Earth



SA17: Nimrodel Jen

Fated



SA18: Nol

A Last Reckoning, Seashell,



SA19: Sphinx

Pause, Eloquent Remembrance



SA20: Starlight10

Driven By Fire



SA21: Sulriel

Taming the Wildflower



SA22: Viv

Red Dawn, Golden Flower



SA23: Vorondis

Mortal Shores



SA24: Zimraphel

Steadfast, Cuivie, Gold Like Tears, Not for Pride Alone, Song of the Waters



This category ends on October 25th at 11:59pm Central US time







--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

<http://home.earthlink.net/~ainae/mefa> http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The
Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards
Blog: <http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com/>
http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

The Silmarillion
Official Voting Ballot

Larian Elensar larian_elensar@yahoo.com



First Age
S1-2: As Little Might Be Thought by Deborah Judge

Now this was a new view, usually it's Maedhros who's the royal bastard. The
few fics I've read usually have Maedhros as the driving force and Maglor sort
of being led along unwillingly. This was definitely different.



First Age
S1-3: Brucia la terra mia by Moralanqua

Nice view of the brothers, don't read much about Aegnor or Angrod and your
descriptions of their deaths was touching without being overly emotional. One
small note-a few typos and it's orcs, not orc's and Balrogs, not balrog's for
plurals.


First Age
S1-4: Dark Forge by Ithilwen

Such a doomed life, it's no wonder Maeglin turned out as he did, I don't think
he really had a chance not to be tainted.




First Age
S1-5: Driven By Fire by Starlight10

I can't even imagine how Finarfin...or any of his brothers or nephews felt,
having to make the horrible choices they made, or the sort of hopeless fates
they followed. Nice peek into his struggle.




First Age
S1-6: Finrod's Oath by Jmac

I'm not that familiar with Finrod, but through your eyes I saw his desperation
and regrets, I guess, the way I picture so many of the Noldor from the First
Age. Well done.



First Age
S1-7: Naming the Stones by Deborah Judge

I admit I had trouble wrapping my mind around Elrond and Elros not being twins,
and Elros having silver hair, it fit the story well. Interesting view of
Elrond, and the hate. I often wondered how he survived without pain and hate
eating him up inside. Well done.


First Age
S1-8: Pause by Sphinx

Lots of stories about Elrond and Elros being left behind, but not many on how
their parents and grandparents felt, having to leave them. Nice read.



First Age
S1-10: Slouching Toward Gondolin by Fileg

Nicely done. I especially liked the last lines about the orcs being forged in
fury. That explains a lot of their hate too.




First Age
S1-12: When I Am Wise by Deborah Judge

Yes, I love the thought that Elros asked Elrond to teach his children. Not that
Elrond would have done otherwise, I'm sure, but it's still a touching moment.




First Age
S1-13: White Wing by Cirdan

Batman! *hee* How wonderfully insightful of Tuor to choose White Wing. Well
done.



Incomplete
SI-2: Beneath the Light by Mouse

I confess, had I noticed that this had not been updated in over 2 years, I
never would have started it. I'm sorry now that I did read it, because I fear
that it will never be finished, and that's too bad, because it's very difficult
to stop reading once you start. I was totally involved from the first
paragraph and you never once lost my full attention. The Fall of Gondolin is
one of my favorites and this story really helps flesh it out and give Maeglin a
personality beyond being evil. Please, please, please consider finishing it?




Incomplete
SI-3: Fated by Nimrodel Jen

I don't know much about Nimrodel and Amroth, so thanks for telling this story.
However, my modern sensibilities tell me that Amroth, by following her, is
being rather silly. Of course, that's why we need stories like this; because
our real lives are not 'silly' enough!



Romance
SR1: Blood and Smoke by Dargelos

I've never pictured Elrond and Isildur together, but it does fit. And of
course, how easy to see the future...



Romance
SR2: Fell Fire by Finch

I loved the emotions and thoughts behind each of their stories. Aegnor's story
is so sad, it's too bad he couldn't have stayed with Andreth for a little
longer. Well done.



Romance
SR3: Of Gold and Wood by Ladyperedhel

Oh, this made Finrod seem more 'human' and comfortable. I usually see him as
someone cold and aloof. Nicely done.


Romance
SR6: The Unforgettable Fire by Ithilwen

Great perspective, showing us Caranthir's thoughts and feelings. The stories
of Feanor's sons are so sad it's good to read that for a little while at least,
there was some happiness for one of them. Well done.


Second Age
S2-1: A Last Reckoning by Nol

I really liked this line "But something--a little more space within the circle
of light against the darkness." Great image, you can feel Gil-Galad's
desperation. well done.



Second Age
S2-3: Mortal Shores by Vorondis

I was going to read the first five or so chapters and see if I wanted to
continue, and you had me in the first two paragraphs. I love the way you've
fleshed out this whole era. I was trying to write comments after every chapter,
but I got so caught up in what was going on, I gave up. I don't often sit down
and read fan fiction (especially the longer pieces) in one go, but that's
exactly what I'm doing now, I resent every little interruption that takes me
back out of the story! I've always loved Gil-Galad, thank you for making him
accessible, and more 'known.' And of course, Celebrian would love him! I'm
somewhat surprised I haven't seen more of that in the fandom. Tarion's desire
to use Narya, to heal himself has me somewhat concerned at this point, I can
only see that leading to disaster, I think. (But I'm barely 1/3 of the way
through too...) Nice little foreshadowing thing there where Tarion draws
Glorfindel, at about the same time he's being captured. I still have trouble
thinking of a young Gildor, every other story I've read has had an older, wiser
Gildor, but I guess he had to get that wisdom from somewhere.

Wow, never would have guessed Tarion's secret. And the fact that 'common'
people knew about the power of the Elven rings, that had to be scary to
Gil-galad and Galadriel when Glorfindel told them. I feel terrible that I'm
not writing more feedback, but I'm too busy reading! I can't put this story
down for any length of time, I'm trapped! *grin* Ooh, what is Gildor's game?
I never thought about it much but I wonder how it was for him, being
(supposedly) actually closer to the throne than Gil-Galad. I guess he might
want to needle him a bit to see how he reacts, though I can't see how creating
that type of divisive situation, even briefly, helps the elves.

Ah, okay, I needed to read through the whole thing to see what Gildor was up
to. Gildor wasn't even sure, was he? *grin* Lots of great story telling here.
I liked getting to know Beregar and Tarion. And this was a new Gildor for me
as well. And Celebrian, not a weakling who needed to be avenged, like you
usually see. You even made Galadriel powerful without castrating the men around
her. Excellent. I saw one little thing that threw me, very near the end.
Galadriel is talking about not giving up the ring of sapphire. I assume you
meant ring of adament?

All in all, a thoroughly captivating, well told story. It will be difficult to
think of this period without allowing your vision of it in...




Second Age
S2-4: Oath Renewed by Inglor

I have to admit, it grated to have Gildor called a coward, but I got over it
after finishing the story. Great way to connect the line of elves and men, and
of course, the sword that had the power to take the ring from Sauron, but was
still touched by the curse of the Noldor, in that Isildur didn't finish the
job.




Second Age
S2-5: Seashell by Nol

You know, you just have to wonder if Elrond and Elros had any happy memories to
overcome all the sad ones. It amazes me that either of them could go on and
keep striving. I don't know if I like the idea that Elros talked to Maglor
before he left...although I guess it would have given him some sort of closure,
which he'd been denied otherwise.



S2: Eloquent Remembrance by Sphinx

oh, I loved your Celeborn! Underestimated again by the light elves...and able
to hold his ground, and sort of win. Well done.



S4: If Women had Ruled Middle Earth by Mouse

Oh! I can so see that. And yes! Poor Goldberry! I always skip that part in
the book...*blush*



S5: In the Seventh Age by Deborah Judge

Oooh, yes! What a bittersweet ending for Maglor. I like the idea that maybe he
learned in the end, and was forgiven.





AUTHORS (remember to comment on the writer as regards to the category, not the
story, here):



SA17: Nimrodel Jen
Fated

Nimrodel Jen is a new name to me, but she obviously has a good grasp on Tolkien
and where he left gaps for fan fiction authors space to dabble. She has a nice,
easy to read style and I hope to see more from her soon.



This category ends on October 25th at 11:59pm Central US time




=====
Larian
larian_elensar@yahoo.com
Keeper of the OEAM archive http://www.ofelvesandmen.com
Archive addy archive@ofelvesandmen.com

I'd forgotten just how much I love good Silmarillion fics. Fortunately,
these awards came along and reminded me. Behold yet another lengthy ballot!

-------------------------------

The Silmarillion
Official Voting Ballot

-------------------------------

STORIES

-------------------------------

>>First Age
>>S1-1: A Brush with Destiny by Coriel

I love stories about first impressions, and if it involves Thranduil and
Elrond, so much the better! I liked how we saw the beginnings of their
characters in this, such as Elrondýs curiosity and thirst for knowledge
contrasted by Thranduilýs memories and his duty to his people. It was a
rather inauspicious way to meet, but given these two, I donýt know that Iýd
expect anything else.

>>First Age
>>S1-3: Brucia la terra mia by Moralanqua

Interesting tale that seems as driven by its environment as it is by its
events. The descriptions of Dorthonion are very good, and I like how it
seems peaceful at first but the taint of darkness is never far away, even if
the elves try to ignore it. The descriptions keep pace with the actions, and
in the end, the land is as ruined as the elves who tried to defend it. Great
descriptive work!

>>First Age
>>S1-4: Dark Forge by Ithilwen

Dark, dark, dark. That was my first impression after reading this. Itýs
soýgritty. Maeglinýs descriptions of himself are fascinating. He truly is a
product of both his mother and his father, yet he doesnýt belong to either
one entirely. And even after their deaths, he never truly belongs. I like
the quick comments about how his mind works, and how he can see the flaws in
both minds and metals. Morgothýs voice in the midst of all this shows that
he, too, can see the flaws in minds. The slow betrayal of Maeglinýs thoughts
was great, and I loved how he rationalized his somewhat illicit search for
metal as a way of fulfilling his kingýs commands, and how in the end his
betrayal was a favor to Idril. Spooky little fic that left me thinking.

>>First Age
>>S1-5: Driven By Fire by Starlight10

Finarfin is one of my favorite characters, and I love it when people write
from his viewpoint. He really doesnýt get enough notice. This fic, in
particular, is stunning, especially the way in which the kinslaying is
described. The death of the Teleri takes on new meaning when seen through
Finarfinýs eyes, and itýs easy to see why he turned back after that. The
effect on him was staggering, and Starlight brings it out perfectly.

>>First Age
>>S1-6: Finrod's Oath by Jmac

Finrod is another of my favorite characters, and I like how Jmac brings out
the irony of Finrod being imprisoned in a fortress of his own making. Itýs
such a great introduction to this fic, in which Finrod basically goes over
all the things he couldnýt save. Minas Tirith was just the start, and even
then, it was the beginning because thereýs that little matter of an elven
maid waiting for him back in Aman. He lost his brothers, he could not save
Beren, heýs a prisoner in a fortress he could not keep, and Jmac builds
wonderfully to the climax in which Finrod tries to do something good despite
the doom of Mandos. The final lines really got to me, and then the fic cuts
out with the words, ýso it begins.ý Terrific closing line, and I imagine
that Finrod tried to make a new beginning even as he met his end.

>>First Age
>>S1-8: Pause by Sphinx

Tuor is a fascinating character to me, and Sphinx does a good job with him
here as he prepares to leave with Idril. The scene painted is very much a
pause of sorts as he thinks about what heýs gained and what heýs leaving
behind. Tuor seems to be grasping at the intangible in this fic, and given
what happens to him and what heýs done already, I think thatýs a perfect
note for his character.

>>First Age
>>S1-10: Slouching Toward Gondolin by Fileg

The pride of the elves Orc-style. This is a great piece that isnýt afraid to
show the world through the eyes of an Orc, and I love the result. This Orcýs
opinion on the elves and their idiocy is beautiful, and from the Orcýs
standpoint, completely rational and well-founded. His own opinion of himself
echoes the reasoning of the elves that he scoffs, but then, they are from
the same roots, arenýt they? Wonderfully twisted look into the mind of an
Orc who is quite proud of what he is.

>>First Age
>>S1-11: Steadfast by Zimraphel

First of all, I enjoyed the title and the way the entire story reflects back
onto the meaning of Voronwýýs name. Every part of this story is about how he
was steadfast, both in his service to Turgon and his convictions about
himself and what has happened. Itýs something Ulmo recognizes, and I love
the idea that he uses this steadfastness to make Voronwý a guide for his
messenger. Tuor was also great in this tale, and though Maeglin doesnýt
appear, I couldnýt help but think of him as a contrast to this self-assured
but realistic mortal.

>>First Age
>>S1-12: When I Am Wise by Deborah Judge

Intriguing look at Elrondýs decision to join with the elves and Elrosýs
decision to join with men. I like the way their different desires are told,
and I really like what seems to be the motivating factor in Elrondýs choice:
Once he is wise, will he know if he could have done anything differently in
Sirion? Or if he had acted, would he have become like Maedhros and Maglor?
Itýs an intriguing question, but like Elrond, Iým not sure itýs the right
one. Fascinating story.

>>First Age
>>S1-13: White Wing by Cirdan

Oh dear! I canýt tell you just how much I choked up laughing at first
Batman, then Robin, and ultimately Nightwing. Iým surprised Huntress and
Batgirl werenýt worked into this. Clever, clever. And fun!

>>Second Age
>>S2-1: A Last Reckoning by Nol

I was completely unprepared for the power of this little fic, and as a
result, it blew me away. Iým still reeling, which is going to make writing
this review difficult, so forgive me if I ramble more than usual. First of
all, I like how this fic sets itself up. It touches on those fighting beside
Gil-galad, it gives us a description of their surroundings (I love the small
touch about Gil-galadýs burning eyes in the midst of Mordor) and it even
places itself within time. Or outside of time, depending upon how it was
viewed, because Gil-galad is right. At this point, time is for other people
in places where there are beginnings and ends. And having set both the scene
and the stakes, the story dives right into Gil-galadýs mind. I loved the
imagery used in the narrative, and it became even more powerful as the story
went on and Gil-galad seemed to adopt his fatherýs philosophy that the
stronger force wins and that despair can sometimes be strong enough, which
is an idea that really struck me. I could definitely use most of this story
for profound quotes if I wanted to. Whether despair is strong enough to
triumph over darkness, over hope, or over both, I still havenýt decided, but
whatever the answer, this sets up perfectly for the final charge against
Sauron when the forces on both sides are weary and faltering. This is really
something you have to read for yourself. My meager words could never do it
justice.

>>Second Age
>>S2-2: It's In His Eyes by Larien Elensar

I hadnýt thought of this reason for Elrosýs decision to join with men, but
as inspiration behind it, Celebrimbor serves well. And I like that Elrond
finally understood when he gave Arwen to Aragorn. As individuals who bridge
the gap between elves and men, itýs very appropriate that Elrond and Elros
should try to look after both.

>>Second Age
>>S2-5: Seashell by Nol

I have this strange fascination with Maglor, and I think Nol nails his
character in this fic. Heýs become very child-like, which I can see madness
doing, but from time to time, he is still Maglor, the son of Fýanor. Itýs in
his voice, his bearing, and occasionally his words. Heýs very much like the
seashell that Elros thinks of. Simple to look at, but far more complex if
studied closely.

>>S1: Cuivie by Zimraphel

Maybe itýs just me, but I found something absolutely hilarious in the fact
that the Entýs first word was ýHroom.ý Itýs probably just me, though. Still,
that line had me laughing like an idiot.

>>S2: Eloquent Remembrance by Sphinx

A brilliant conversation between two of my favorite elves: Celeborn and
Finarfin. Celeborn, especially, is at the top of his game here, and it
doesnýt take that long for Finarfin to join him. The wordplays in this fic
are amazing, and the
argument/debate/conversation/whatever-you-want-to-call-it between two of my
favorite characters is exactly what I hoped it would be. Celeborn shows us
why he earned the title ýCeleborn the Wiseý and adds a beautiful dash of
Sindar cynicism and common sense, which seems to throw Finarfin a bit until
he learns how to respond to it in the very end. Itýs a testament to
Finarfinýs own wisdom that he is able to give as good as he gets by the end
of the conversation and to put aside his fatherly feelings. The cameo by
Elrond and Celebrýan was hilarious in its simplicity. I love the fact that
these two are watching the confrontation, if not entirely eavesdropping, and
I love Galadrielýs comments about letting the fittest survive. I definitely
agree with both of them that Celeborn and Finarfin can be intimidating.
Excellent look into these characters.

>>S3: Gold Like Tears by Zimraphel

Wonderful and chilling little tale. Tolkien has made a few references to the
Morgoth element in various works, and while Iým not sure this is an example
of that phenomenon, it certainly brought it to mind along with all its
implications. And thatýs what really makes this story work, I think. One
little token (in this case, a bead) holds so much meaning and history and
grief. It shows up and the entire scene darkens. It becomes a character in
its own right, and it holds its own in scenes that include the likes of
Elrond, Elros, Glorfindel, Aragorn, and Arwen.

>>S4: If Women had Ruled Middle Earth by Mouse

Hilarious! Poor Celebrýan. I never thought what not having another name
might mean to her! Still, Idril is right. Being named after oneýs feet is
probably not the greatest compliment. And alas poor Goldberry. I always knew
there was something off about that relationshipý

>>S5: In the Seventh Age by Deborah Judge

I rather enjoy the bittersweet idea that Maglor wandered endlessly, but this
fic has some nice closure to it even if it does mean that Maglor can go
home. I suppose I canýt begrudge him that, especially when he speaks so well
of what Elrosýs children have learned from him and when Galadriel tells him
that Elrond still sings his songs. Itýs still bittersweet enough for me!

>>S6: Not for Pride Alone by Zimraphel

This fic is a master of characterization. The events themselves are
stunning, and I loved the climax when Glorfindel rode out against the
Witch-king, but even better were the characters themselves. As the leading
character, Glorfindel himself was excellent, and I think his distance with
mortals very appropriate. But I especially enjoyed his views of other
characters. Thereýs a very subtle and wry approach in his way of looking at
things that really brought the characters to life, such as Erestor the
ýnoisy crow.ý In sharp contrast to Glorfindel was the rather unsavory
characterization of Eamur, but even though he was made out to be somewhat
blustering in the beginning of the fic, he had quite a few redeeming
qualities by the end, such as brilliant strategy. Zimraphel keeps an
excellent balance going so that no one is entirely good or bad. Well, except
the Witch-king. The twins were also well characterized, and it is clear that
they are Elrondýs sons. But the characters I loved best were the hobbits
(they were such hobbits!) and Imrazor. I donýt know if Imrazor is intended
to be the same Imrazor who founded Dol Amroth, but there are enough hints
that seemed to indicate this was so and I can very much seem him in that
role. He reminds me very much of Imrahil!

-----------------------

AUTHORS

-----------------------

>>SA6: Deborah Judge

Deborah Judge does a great job of getting into Elrondýs head and exploring
what has to be one of the most complicated relationships in all of Tolkienýs
work: the relationship between Elrond, Elros, and Maglor. And she gives it
its due in some fascinating stories that demonstrate the complexity of what
happened at Sirion and the aftermath of taking Elrond and Elros hostage.

>>SA12: Jmac

Jmac makes wonderful use of irony and the idea of failure as Finrod sits in
the dark with Beren. The fic itself runs the risk of becoming a mindless
slog of self recrimination, but Jmac keeps it above that but carefully
pointing out that Finrod is justified in his feelings, and that in spite of
his despair and past failings, Finrod is still ready to make one last
attempt to do something right. Great tribute to a character that I believe
is among the more noble characters in the Silmarillion, and through some
great narrative setup on Jmacýs part, the end becomes the beginning.

>>SA18: Nol

Nol has a gift for getting inside the heads of elves, which is no small feat
considering how different they are. The trick Nol seems to use is to foil
them against others, sometimes even against themselves. Gil-galad, for
instance, is foiled primarily against his younger self, though Elrond and
Elendil serve as small foils, too. And then Maglor and Elros are wonderful
contrasts for one another, and I love the hints of a relationship we get
from both of them. And thatýs another thing that Nol does well: hints. Hints
of conversations, of arguments, and of past decisions. Nol leaves the reader
to draw his/her own conclusions, but the reader is given enough direction
for the conclusions harmonize with the story. And thatýs something I wish I
could do very much. I have to say that Iým a very jealous!

>>SA19: Sphinx

With the two stories here, Sphinx shows herself to be a master of many
forms. ýPauseý was a very detached, dream-like tale with an aging Tuor at
the end of his journeys, and it seems to glance over things quickly, which
is exactly what Tuorýs wandering mind was probably doing at that stage of
his life. In sharp contrast is the confrontation between Finarfin and
Celeborn, two of the wisest elves on Arda. Sphinx doesnýt glance over
anything in that goes but goes straight for the throat. Or rather, Finarfin
does, and Celeborn doesnýt shy away in the least. Both are very
well-written, and the contrast in style, mood, and content say quite a bit
about Sphinxýs abilities as an author.

>>SA20: Starlight10

Starlight10 manages to bring across the sorrow that characterized much of
the First Age, but it hits Finarfin harder and faster than it hits his kin.
And given what little we know of his character, I find that very
appropriate. Great characterization of Finarfin and wonderful descriptive
work give this fic that longing and sweeping sadness that hounded the elves,
both those who went back and those who stayed in Aman.

>>SA24: Zimraphel

Zimraphel has a way of bringing legends to life and also of making legends
with a life of their own. What I find truly interesting is how Zimraphel
stays away from the heart of the legend, instead showing us bits of the
beginning or pieces of the end. The middle is left unspoken, and I really
like this approach because it lets us create our own images of what happened
in the great stories based on what Zimraphel gives as foundation or
conclusion. The story of Glorfindel, for instance, and the confrontation
with the Witch-king shows Glorfindel after the Balrog slaying and gives us
glimpses of what we might have seen had we been on that trail out of
Gondolin with him. The different tales of Cýrdan, Voronwý, and Tuor show
these heroes before they really became heroes, but the seeds of greatness
were obviously there and it adds depth to the moments that Tolkien lays out
in the Silmarillion. I donýt know of any author who so thoroughly explores
the area around the legend rather than the legend itself, and I find that
this is a very refreshing look at Silmarillion fanfiction.

-------------------------------

Thundera

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[MEFAwards] The Silmarillion--Official Voting Ballot



First Age
S1-1: A Brush with Destiny by Coriel
I read this a long time ago and very much enjoyed it, but lost track
of it. I am especially pleased to have found it again in reading for
the MEFAs. It is a beautiful and heartbreaking view of Menegroth
before it's fall, ravaged not once but twice, and an insightful
portrayal of both Elrond and Thranduil.



Second Age
S2-5: Seashell by Nol
a wonderful and heartrending depiction of Elros and Maglor.

Authors

>
> SA1: Andreth
>
> Where to start? Her cheracter's are multidimesional in a way that

would make Stephen Hawking shudder without being contradictory. Her
plots twist in a way that would make Clancy smile yet you don't need
a crib sheet. In otherwords, her stories are as realistic as writing
in fanfiction can be. She doesn't try to emulate the Prof, just
builds multitiered, gated, liveable and rentable sandcastles in his
sandbox.

>
>
>
> SA8: Finch
>
> Somebody else wrote that Finch was their first inspiration, me too.

Reading her stories is what got me hooked on Sil fanfiction
I have even followed her writing into HP fanfiction. Who else can
pull off a Sil/HP crossover? Some writers are so good they overpower
you with skill, Finch's writing is so good you think its canon.

>
>
>
>
> SA22: Viv
>
> Viv simultaneously inspired me to write and discouraged me to

write. Reading her stuff makes my ego weep. I can't even get close.

In her stories, she writes just enough detail for your imagination to
connect the dots and yet leaves little doubt.
I have no other specifics except that her writing moved me.

>
>
>
> SA24: Zimraphel
>
> I can think of no other writer in the fandom who has hit so many

home runs. Most writers have a few good fics. All her fics are grand
slams.
Some writers are as good (at most 5) but I can't think of any who are
as prolific with out a drop off in quality.


Inglor

-----Original Message-----
From: Ainaechoiriel [mailto:mefaadmin@earthlink.net]
Sent: Saturday, October 16, 2004 12:01 AM
To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [MEFAwards] The Silmarillion--Official Voting Ballot




The Silmarillion

Official Voting Ballot



To Vote, hit Reply. Delete the stories/authors you are not commenting on.
For the stories/authors you want to comment on, make sure to keep the top 2
lines of the header information (ex. subcategory, code: Title by Author) and
then comment beneath them.



First Age

S1-1: A Brush with Destiny by Coriel

I admit that before this and another Sirion!Thranduil story, I had forgotten
to even think that Thranduil was there, but I'm sure he was. And this was a
nice little story for it. The description of Doriath was especially
wonderful. And that is a favorite Enya song. Many of hers do fit Elves well,
don't they?



First Age

S1-2: As Little Might Be Thought by Deborah Judge

Excusing my memory again, I'll do the best I can to remember this one. I'm
not fond of the Feanorians, as everyone knows, and it pains me to think that
Elrond and Elros were raised by two of them, yet Deborah gives a good
account of what might have been and how the two boys softened Maglor's
heart.


First Age

S1-5: Driven By Fire by Starlight10

Oh, that is sad, and very poignant. Yes, Finarfin turned back, heeding the
call after the Kinslaying, but he lost his children to Feanor and his brood
and so he would be sad by both the Kinslaying and the ones leaving.



First Age

S1-6: Finrod's Oath by Jmac

Wow. That gave me shivers. And brought me closer to Finrod's character,
what he must have felt. And it comes round ot the Curse, doesn't it? All
they would do would fail. And so it did. Even to the good among them, who
still chose wrongly. Beautiful, sad, moving story.



First Age

S1-7: Naming the Stones by Deborah Judge

I was very glad to see someone acknowledge Galadriel's shame for the
Kinslaying. I was shocked when I read the Silm to learn that she'd be held
so highly after all that. I liked that Celeborn also had something against
her, though I am glad he could forgive her. This was wonderfully written,
poetically and very Elvish-feeling.





First Age

S1-9: Red Dawn, Golden Flower by Viv


That was beautiful and sad and horrible. The battle on the pass, I mean by
that last adjective. Of course, I knew Glorfindel would fall but still it
hit me hard. I can't come up with any other words. Wonderful story. Well
done, Viv.


First Age

S1-10: Slouching Toward Gondolin by Fileg

That last full paragraph is the most powerful. Elves, the raw material;
Orcs the finished product. *shiver*



First Age

S1-11: Steadfast by Zimraphel

I fell in love with Voronwe when reading the UT. I'm very glad to see he
inspired Zimraphel. I like the backstory she gave him and the emotion she
rendered in the story. It felt very real, very Elvish, and very fitting
with Tolkien's work.


First Age

S1-12: When I Am Wise by Deborah Judge

Sorry I can't do any better thanmy ff.net review, but my memory is shaky,
and the review said exactly what I wanted to say: Very good insight there.
The Silmarillion doesn't let us get close to the characters so Elrond and
Elros are left kind of distant. We don't get their thoughts and feelings,
but you let us have them here at the monumental choice they made. Thank you.


Second Age

S2-1: A Last Reckoning by Nol

A dark story and yet a good one. Seven years is a long time in Mordor, even
for Elves. You feel the weariness in this story, and yet, the compunction
to keep on fighting. And you feel the end is near.



Second Age

S2-2: It's In His Eyes by Larien Elensar

I like how that brought Elros's decision full circle to the Return of the
King. It's a much more positive reason for Elros choosing what he did than
I usually see.





Second Age

S2-5: Seashell by Nol

I still chafe at Elrond and Elros calling a Feanorean father. I know, I'm
biased and still carrying a grudge! But be that the case, this is still a
good story. Maglor did seem quite lost and mad, and Elros's reasons for
choosing to be Man worked well in this story.



S1: Cuivie by Zimraphel

A short but lovely story of the awakening of the first Ent, and I love that
at the end, we know the Ent's name: Treebeard. Well imagined and
well-written



S2: Eloquent Remembrance by Sphinx

I liked most the conflict in this story. The udnerlying one, the one where
it asks why the "high" Elves are so "high" and the moriquendi what they are.
It's about pride. And the truth sometimes hurts. For both parties.



S3: Gold Like Tears by Zimraphel

Oh what sad little beads. I didn't recognize Glorfindel in the first
chapter, though I suspected, and I was very glad to see Voronwe in the
second though sad to once again see Glorfindel dead. Ondello went with us to
the next chapter, passing the remaining bead to Elros, who carries it to the
next chapter and passes it to Elrond back to Glorfindel and then to Arminas,
unknowingly. And still unknowingly, Arminas recasts it into a brooch which
Aragorn delivers to Arwen. I like that not only the bead passes from one
chapter to the next, but a person does as well. Form follows plot. Very
cool. And perhaps Glorfindel was right. Sadness followed that little bead.



S4: If Women had Ruled Middle Earth by Mouse

Oh dear, and Elven quilting circle. I do like to think of the Elves as
being a bit, well, higher than that, but it does make for quite a humorous
story. Understated in it all are what each of the Elves is sewing, each fits
the one doing the sewing very well.



S5: In the Seventh Age by Deborah Judge

Maglor is finally forgiven after 7 ages of the world. Not sure if I'm ready
for it, but then, I hold a grudge against those Feanorians. Setting that
aside, this is a beautiful story about that forgiveness.



S6: Not for Pride Alone by Zimraphel

Glorfindel again, though in his later self and in a serious time of battle.
His characterization was brilliant, though I expected no less of Zimraphel.
Eanur also, was as prideful and rash as she should be. We see the seeds of
what later will come to pass. The light-hearted interacations between the
Elves though lightened the peace and made me smile here and there. I like
Glorfindel's humility, especially when he has such power.


S7: Song of the Waters by Zimraphel

Wow. Cirdan is a mystery, there but not fully known to us in the
Silmarillion and less so even in LOTR. But Zimraphel brings him to life
here, helps us understand his love for the Sea (and might I mention that
that's one of the things I love about Elves: how much they love nature. It
is one of the most different things about them in comparison to Men) and why
he stayed through so many Ages. Beautiful, as usual.



AUTHORS (remember to comment on the writer as regards to the category, not
the story, here):


SA6: Deborah Judge

Deborah does a wonderful job in the Silmarillion fanfiction. Especially with
Elrond. He is so deep in her stories, so full and 3-dimensional. And there
is wisdom as he learns, so there had to be wisdom in the writer.



SA7: Fileg

I think it might be hard to characterize an Orc and really show why they
hate all that is beautiful. Fileg did a good job and followed the old tenet
that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

SA12: Jmac

Another Silm character fleshed out and brought to life. JMac did a great
job of showing the conflict Finrod might have had with himself and didn't
forget the Curse the Noldor lived under.


SA16: Mouse

Mouse took the drama (or melodrama) of the happenings of the Silm and LOTR
and sets the wives to complaining in one breath and defending in the next.
So much like a group of gossipy hens. And it never seemed over-the-top.
Just too funny. I wish I could write humor.



SA18: Nol

Nol writes darkness well, and grief and sadness, and many other emotions.
Elros is not a character I see often or even understand well, but Nol helped
a bit in that regard.


SA20: Starlight10

Starlight brought Finarfin's conflict to life. Go or stay, each was a
tormenting decision. In the end, I believe he chose rightly, but
thankfully, Starlight showed his pain in even that decision.



SA22: Viv

Viv did a beautiful job protraying Glorfindel and writing of his heroic
death and brought a 3-D-ness to Idril as well. The Silm leaves a lot of
room for that, and I like seeing good writers take up the challenge.


SA24: Zimraphel

Zimraphel writes with an authority. I can almost glimpse that she sees this
world as much as Tolkien did and then shares those visions of it with us.
She must visualize so much to write what she writes and it amazes me. She
is the stand-out author to me of these Awards. I have not once been let down
by one of her stories, never once turned away in disinterest. She draws me
in, even with unfamiliar characters or cultures I'm not really drawn to.
She can write the wonder, the spooky, the horrific, the beautiful all with
equal talent. Zimraphel really has a gift, and I'm very glad she shares it
with us.



This category ends on October 25th at 11:59pm Central US time







--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

<http://home.earthlink.net/~ainae/mefa> http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The
Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards
Blog: <http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com/>
http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com





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The Silmarillion

Official Voting Ballot


Sil- Mefas



S1-4: Dark Forge by Ithilwen



Maeglin seems more sad than evil in this taleý well done.





~





S1-10: Slouching Toward Gondolin by Fileg



Interesting look at the first age orcsýýformed and forged for furyý is a wonderful description.



~



SI-3: Fated by Nimrodel Jen



A wonderful start to such a sad story and Iýd love to see more of it.



~



S2-2: It's In His Eyes by Larian Elensar



This fiction was a beautiful haunting telling of the reasons that Elros chose as he did. I would like to think that Elros chose his path because he knew that men and all of ME would need his strength to win the fight that would come in the third age. There is much said in few words in this fic.





Authors:



SA14: Larian Elensar

It's In His Eyes



Larian chose a small bit of the Sil and told it wellý she provided a reason.











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and the Soldier's Hat.
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