This episode was called Partings. I’m not sure if that signifies parting from the lore, or parting from common sense.
So far, I’ve been impressed with how long this show has lasted. It was decently canon, and I was even warming up to Arondir and Bronwyn. But something has happened (in the most canon storyline so far) that has made me reconsider my entire view of this series.
The Elrond/Durin/Celebrimbor/Gil-galad story was the one to cause the downfall. When Gil-galad brought up the Roots of Hithaeglir, I’m like, ok. As long as you make it very obvious that this a mere myth, completely fake, I’m fine. But a Silmaril? In a tree? Maedhros and Maglor wouldn’t like that story at all. Yes, you wanted an origin story for mithril, but this is… ugh.
But that was all right. It didn’t change the core of the original, and, as I said, it’s myth. My greatest problem was much worse: What in the name of Ulmo is this, ‘Elves need mithril before next spring or they’re all going to die?’ Like, excuse me? I’m really hoping that Annatar (AKA Sauron) is already in Gil-galad’s counsels and has plotted some heresy in his thoughts. Not even a hint of this was written, and there is no way this could have happened in Middle-Earth. I’m shocked at this sudden turn of events, and all I can say is, they’ve written themselves into a tight spot; I’m interested to see if they can get out.
As for Nori’s story, I’m just as perplexed. They’ve done what I’ve been waiting for: succeeded in making an epic song by which to remember at least Nori’s story: The Wandering Days is beautiful. Meteor Man is still a mystery, but we shall see. If they make him a wizard I’ll be mad, but so far, so good.
The Galadriel story continues as previously, though Pharazon’s attitude toward Miriel’s plans is somewhat enlightening, as we may get to see the dark side of Numenor.
Now, for Arondir. This new sword-hilt discovery is interesting. I don’t really know what to make of it. But as for Waldreg going off and bowing to Adar, I have something to say. First, to clear up anyone who says ‘Adar isn’t Sauron ’cause he yelled at Waldreg for calling him that’, among other reasons, ‘Sauron’ means ‘The Abhorred’ in Quenya, so he’d do that to anyone who calls him that even if he was Sauron. Sauron goes by Tar Maeron, King Excellent. I’d like to see where this goes.
Overall, I am very disappointed in this episode. They’ve written themselves into a tight spot, and I’ll be curious to see how they get out. The series before this episdode: 7.5/10. This episode: 2/10. The series after this episode: 3.75/10. Very scared.