In this episode, we journey into one of the most quietly powerful chapters of The Silmarillion: Of Thingol and Melian.

This is the story where myth slows down and something rare happens — an Elf and a Maia meet beneath the stars, and Middle-earth is changed forever. But obviously we caught a whiff of some conspiracy stuff ...

In this episode, we celebrate 8 years in a very unique way- giving you our "TOP 5" in everything from films and tv shows to local restaurants and dive bars!

8 years is far too short a time to spend amongst such excellent and admirable UPers... so let's just never stop then. What say you?

Thank you for all of your support, for listening for near a decade, but most of all for becoming our dear friends along the way. Through life's unforeseen ebbs and flows, ups and downs- it's you UPers that have been the constant. And it's something we don't take for granted.

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In this episode, we finally witness the arrival of the Children of Eru Illuvatar- but right from the start, Melkor sows deception and discord. Not only that, many elves go missing, only to be taken by Melkor- tortured and mutilated, they are transformed into an utter mockery and perversion (Orcs). With the Children in mortal danger, what are the Valar to do?

After a quick council, it's decided that the Children should be defended and protected (and Tulkas smiles) and Melkor's butt kicked, destined to be held prisoner in the Halls of Mandos for a sentence of no less than 3 ages.

Meanwhile, after Ingwe (Vanyar), Finwe (Noldor) and Elwe (Teleri) visit Valinor and witness the light of the Trees, they return to Cuivienen (the birthplace of the elves) as ambassadors with an invitation from the Valar to come venture westward and make a home in Valinor. What follows is truly the genesis of all drama (and doom) in Arda. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings.