The Shadow's Rise: The Untold Tale of Sauron | Middle-earth Lore

This tale unfolds through Sauron's eyes, offering a glimpse into the Dark Lord's machinations. While we've endeavored to honor Tolkien's vision, the shadows of Middle-earth conceal many secrets. Our narrative ventures into uncharted territories, weaving canon with conjecture.
We witness Sauron's encounter with Khamûl, a meeting shrouded in mystery, and observe his dealings with another fierce Easterling warrior - events Tolkien's pen never directly illuminated. These accounts, though rooted in the rich soil of established lore, bloom with speculative details.

[@numenorean81]

Guys, thanks for the overwhelming response! I can report the work on part 2 has begun. Probably will need a few weeks to get it done.

[@cernunnos_lives]

It takes time to make carefully constructed creations. A labor of love is what we want to admire. It will take as long as it calls for. Thanks for your hard work so far

[@NCfrost82]

Can't wait buddy....great content.

[@iangamble8672]

Amazing work. Really fantastic 👍

[@NCfrost82]

@@numenorean81 of course.....just keep bringing good stuff like that and get more praises. Maybe even the 'bag' but lets not jump the gun there.

[@thejudgmentalcat]

Sauron's narrative...Tolkien would be proud

[@khaledlayadi4331]

I came for 2 or 3 minutes, I finished it all. What a masterpiece , amazing!

[@numenorean81]

Be warned! This tale unfolds through Sauron's eyes, offering a glimpse into the Dark Lord's machinations. While we've endeavored to honor Tolkien's vision, the shadows of Middle-earth conceal many secrets. Our narrative ventures into uncharted territories, weaving canon with conjecture. We witness Sauron's encounter with Khamûl, a meeting shrouded in mystery, and observe his dealings with another fierce Easterling warrior - events Tolkien's pen never directly illuminated. These accounts, though rooted in the rich soil of established lore, bloom with speculative details.

[@FloRangutan9592]

you are a fabulous writer my friend

[@Braxmatics]

Excellent work! Telling Sauron’s story from his perspective is rather ambitious and you nailed it

[@lichtenberglearning3801]

This is excellent, truly. It’s not easy to bring speculation to this lore in a way that is palatable and feels respectful of the source. Really well done. ❤

[@numenorean81]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@AlexisLopez-pb8ms]

This was a brilliant clear difference between the evil of Morgoth and Sauron. This is why Sauron lasted for many more thousands of years than Morgoth did.

[@applin121]

Sauron is one of Tolkien’s most subtle creations, both attractive and repellent. At the final defeat of Morgoth, Sauron was humbled before the Valar and for one moment he almost repented of his evil. But his pride wouldn’t let him. Tolkien tells us of Sauron as a warning.

[@lBradyCaldwell]

Hes certainly no Osse

[@s.c.1903]

Very very beautiful Please do not take long, give us hours of your beautiful writing and diving in lotr lore

[@enocescalona]

DUUDE, MORE OF THIS! I actually so very much wanted to make my own Sauron story years ago, i felt i'd never make it justice. But this is genuinely perhaps better than my own. I wonder if you'd ever make a sequel. If you'd have Sauron meet Shelob, if you'd have him battle and tame the spider. If he'd meet each Human and dwarf king and how'd he promise them immortality and such. PLEEASE more episodes, this is so beautiful. This is Sauron now, even if i do feel he'd feel at least a bit have fondness for the Elves he was about to control. Frustration and a slight betrayal of his student seems clear to me as to why he made him a banner. They both were smiths, maybe they bonded. But yeah, apart from slight differences, this could be so awesome! I also want to see Numenor's fall from his POV. This has so much potential as a whole.

[@e.gadd.1]

A great personality created for Sauron and I enjoyed it. I'm glad that he was different than Melkor and not just a dark copy as it were. One small thing I regret that was left out here, was the mention in the Silmarillion where after the War of Wrath and the fall of Utumno, Sauron repented his deeds to Eonwe the herald, and it was said unlike Melkor he actually meant it in truth, and was going to give up his evil ways..... though it wasn't said exactly why. Eonwe then said he couldn't pardon Sauron because he was of the same order, he had to go back to Valinor and basically go on trial. Sauron was ashamed to do this, expecting maybe a long humiliating sentence of penance..... so he instead slunk off into the shadows and hid...... finally falling back into evil after they all left. It gave a curious depth to his character even though it was such a brief line.

[@mystakiwi3248]

I thought that this was absolutely brilliant, and would very much welcome the opportunity to see what happens next. Please make more.

[@numenorean81]

Thank you!

[@mo-oe9sb]

Amazing stuff and lore friendly at the same time! Well done !

[@numenorean81]

Thanks my man!

[@ericmcdonald7313]

Anyone on this channel is a Tolkien freak and you do not disappoint....well done. The 2nd Age is facinating

[@hcredle1658]

I must say... this has been an absolute "Precious" experience the way you are detailing Sauron's journey of chaos. Great Work!

[@numenorean81]

Thanks, more to come!

[@libertyordeath1640]

Outstanding!!! Eagerly awaiting part two!

[@tawfikmadhon7880]

Crazy how this is so much better than anything Rings of power has managed to make with a billion dollar budget.

[@Boric78]

Not really, you just hire useless muppets who hate the source material and you get shit. Happened before, will happen again. AMC, Betamax or Blockbusters - anyone? And VW soon by the looks of it.

[@NicoleStevensHays11x]

Why don’t you get off your dead ass and make it “right,” then? We await your mighty works, thou gatekeeper of holy Tolkein works! Keep fighting the good fight … don’t get discouraged by the fact that the vast majority of ppl like it! Hate on, hater! Nerd rage is irresistible!

[@NicoleStevensHays11x]

Nothing is stopping you from making your own! Grab that copy of silmarillion from under your pillow and get to work! Praise you, gatekeeper of Tolkein! If only everyone worshipped him like you do!

[@HelloImCrimson]

​@@NicoleStevensHays11x Copyright is stopping him and other laws

[@NicoleStevensHays11x]

@@HelloImCrimson I never said to go out selling it lmfao. Ever heard of fan fic?! Any more excuses ?!

[@robertburman3895]

Brilliant, absolutely brilliant. Cant wait to hear more. Thx

[@jeremywendelin]

This channel is going to BLOW UP. well done 👍🏼 will check back years from now. 8k subs right now. 2/24/24

[@solitarysurreal3652]

That image in the beginning - of the different Voids (these incomprehensible, seemingly limitless universes) being nothing more than small parts on the body of Eru...now that is a WONDERFUL concept! :D 30 seconds in, love it already!

[@benjaminmiller3032]

Can’t wait for part 2! Subscribed

[@grahamcollett1559]

Thank you for this inspired tale. It’s a wonderfully crafted story; soaring to the poetic and profound. Conjectural, true, but I’d say it faithfully observes Tolkien's lore while expanding and enriching his vision. The narrator’s voice reminds me of Iwan Rheon (AKA Ramsay Bolton, Game of Thrones). Not an obvious choice, although that casual, detached sadism seems strangely apt for Sauron’s voice. Faintly aristocratic and simmering with veiled malice. The graphic illustrations are exquisitely rendered and complement the narrative flow beautifully. Overall this channel is such an ambitious and original endeavour. So much more than fan-fiction for it’s sheer artistry and gravitas. Thank you!

[@ericfaith2810]

Yes please continue. Brilliantly narrated! And glorious artwork!

[@jonopress1795]

This was absolutely amazing. Congratulations and thank you

[@numenorean81]

Thanks!

[@RustyTreeMan]

Big Sauron fan, more than I could have hoped for, also your artistic licence blinded seamlessly with the cannon work of Tolkien. great story

[@joeramirez5460]

Amazing can't wait for part 2

[@waywardanarchist]

your slight deviation into speculation around kamul is most excellent and is very acceptable and an enhancement upon the lore....im sure tolkien himself would give you credit...unlike the current crap on tv.....your videos are most excellent...please keep up the good work!!

[@waywardanarchist]

@@boumajohn ..actually i think i could quite easily....As the rings of power writers seem to keep eating their crayons...

[@UsefulIdiot77]

Beautiful 🫡💯 only thing I would personally change is making Sauron’s voice deeper but that’s just my own interpretation of his voice etc. Love your content so far my guy

[@manuelnegwer5905]

Excellent! Fantastic idea. I am a big Tolkien fan and this appears to be very authentic. Yes, I enjoyed it!

[@tomsawyer1648]

Never double back to a video to make sure I leave a like 👍 enjoyed hundreds of hours of middle earth lore but I had a special appreciation for this jem in sauron's point of view! Bonus awesome final chapter of ring manipulation I haven't heard yet!

[@ArdashirSassanig]

Frankly, this was so realistic a portrayal of Sauron that I felt creeped out to even hear it to the end.

[@bretrohde7300]

Wow, that was awesome! And your newer one from Melkor’s standpoint is also great! I want more, more!

[@numenorean81]

Thank you bret! More is coming

[@talksickFPV]

More!! Please more!! This long form is immaculate. I could listen to it all day and night if it was available.

[@DiningPhilanderer]

This is just amazing. I'm hooked on your channel.

[@numenorean81]

Thanks!

[@fred20097]

The video seems to suggest Sauron appears to Khamal as an old man. He might well have done or maybe not. Who cares? This is outstanding! Your work is head and shoulders above all the other Tolkien YouYube channels. I really enjoyed it. Thank you so much ❤😂 Please provide part 2? I can't wait to see it.

[@numenorean81]

Hey Fred! I realize I should have been more careful in choosing my words there. His appearance is actually youthful and fair, elf-like.

[@fred20097]

@@numenorean81 Loved the video, just a small detail. Breath-taking!

[@bubblebus1]

Interesting approach. I shall await further episodes.

[@justinjones7506]

Very well done, can't wait for the next episode.

[@ryanhampton2352]

Liked subscribed loved this listen to stuff like this while im walking around

[@MichaelMedici61W2]

Excuse me sir… but you can’t just do this to me. I need that next part like Sméagol needs the precious. Extremely brilliant and well done!

[@numenorean81]

Thanks brother! Working on it, but I cannot give you any release date as of yet. In the meantime you may consider watching my new piece on Fëanor.

[@Nadrakas]

Excellent piece.

[@moonsofix]

Better written than 2 seasons of ROP. Great job.

[@greenthumbstrummer]

This was amazing. And that's coming from a certifiable KZbin Syfy addict

[@numenorean81]

Ah that is cool to hear. I guess you have your standards then, glad I could join!

[@ronaldpatterson1177]

Excellent! 👍👍I yearn for more!

[@What.in.a.name.of.Tolkien]

You delivered! this is brilliant my friend by Tolkiens name! I am speechless how god narrative is! Epic 🔥🔥 you got subscriber easy! Amazing work!

[@numenorean81]

Thanks :)

[@justinrichard6010]

Amazing work. Congrats you gained a subscriber thx

[@numenorean81]

Thanks for watching!

[@IGathron]

Very enjoyable, looking forward to the next one.

[@lyannastark3839]

This image of Sauron in the thumbnail looks awesome. I wonder who's the artist.

[@numenorean81]

Midjourney.

[@dhiyaal-rubie1125]

Amazing... I listened to it 4 times already and it gives me shivers everytime .... I love it and can't wait for the rest

[@numenorean81]

Hey man, that is amazing! more than any creator could wish for, thank you so much for your support.

[@alexhubble]

That was excellent, more please!

[@numenorean81]

Thanks! working on it

[@svenwesley8150]

Very well done! Would love to hear more.

[@scottmcdonald84]

Enjoyed this very much.

[@alaelyaman2484]

The old man voice takes away from the amazing narrative...😢

[@bellagia263]

Agreed. After TROP, I need to hear a younger voice to really feel it's Sauron talking.

[@VirtualArmor]

Looking forward to the next installment!

[@nicholaswilliams224]

Absolutely brilliant i can actually vision sauron being like this as it was in my my mind i truly believe if some was to do the second age as a faithful adaptation this is how it should be done

[@numenorean81]

Thank you !

[@okultusrexus3660]

Very good. Tolkien would be proud!

[@waywardanarchist]

can we keep this voice for further videos as its very hypnotic and paints a great picture

[@veliceligt02]

Yes, please! More!

[@brycemcgarrity5367]

Love it keep’em coming always enjoyable

[@cernunnos_lives]

Amazons version: While everyone else was adding to the grand song, Melkor decided to stride in making noises from his armpits? And he took a few kids with him. And there they went. Far to the north lay Utumno, the cool kids hidden fort. Crafting cool comics about werewolves and smoking cigarettes, there they learned all the bad things.

[@BushmasterH]

Terrible beauty and monsterous darkness man i love literature

[@superdubose2147]

Most definitely ready for part two

[@KeithWF]

An enthralling tale.

[@will_the_don]

This was awesome!!

[@Eantropacht]

Excellent fan fiction. Of course I'm interested in hearing more!

[@ginofellino69]

Sooo good! When's part 2?

[@scottmcdonald84]

Would love to hear the rest!!

[@ThomasTegelmark]

Amazing!

[@westbethkid]

So good. Amazon's "Rings of Power" is but a dull trinket on an old harlot's finger compared to such narrative craft

[@IainJaconelli]

Excellent take on Sourons point of view, when is part 2 due?

[@numenorean81]

Still a few weeks away tbh.

[@IainJaconelli]

@@numenorean81 don't rush it, keep up the good work

[@jkonrad]

Nicely done. Different than the others.

[@mattjowett8837]

this is amazing - when is the next part due?!

[@numenorean81]

Probably in a few weeks time.

[@davyjones6670]

This is really good, it's brilliant ❤ but it's a shame some pronunciations were wrong! You put lots of work in this please check the right pronunciations too!

[@maingreazy21]

Well done

[@xtheory]

We need more. I beg of you!

[@lightningdragon3033]

Awesome please continue

[@tonyantoniou9271]

Tnx for putting 'flesh on the bones', on the most interesting character in a biography, by far the best I have come across with excellent narration. Tolkien is more tease then strip in info and context on him. One had to wade through the Silmarillion for snippets. I have no liking for the films made in New Zealand. The cartoon version in the 1970's is rather good, the BBC radio adaptation only fair. I repeat your telling is the best.

[@numenorean81]

Glad you enjoying the deep dive into Sauron's character! You're right, Tolkien can be pretty cryptic with the details sometimes.

[@moonsofix]

You see those warriors from Rhun? They've got curved swords. Curved. Swords.

[@leonsmith6718]

This is really good, when's the next one 😂

[@numenorean81]

in a feew weeks!

[@Boric78]

Amazing. You might use AI for the visuals, but this is very well thought out. As was your video on the Witch Kings origins.

[@kpm2360]

Yes, more please.

[@gecomert]

Next episode pleaseeee 🙏🏼

[@connorryan9263]

YES PART 2!

[@a.d.clarke4990]

Great voices. 👍

[@numenorean81]

Thank you!

[@disgruntledkitten9127]

this has just healed my brain from inflicting rings of power on myself, I feel I have been renewed 😆

[@numenorean81]

A most fatal condition, so you are very lucky to escape it like this! :)

[@disgruntledkitten9127]

@@numenorean81 🤣🤣

[@louistremblay147]

Yes i'd like to hear more!

[@kimberleymac87]

Wonderful

[@XTRSleep]

the one and only point to mention about this vid is that the narrative voice is kinda out of place, unless it is a journey that is read by another person. If Sauron had a voice, I imagine a calm yet mysterious voice, due to him being there at the beginning, harmonising and singing. The voice should symbolise his origin and cruelty that formed him into a being of darkness and malice. Now it sounds like a old man's journal, straight outta Diablo 2 :P Furthermore; keep up the stories, been listening to them for days by this time... You my man, with any or none tools, are creating a filler to the mysterious void.

[@shawnthompson2303]

Nampat burzum-ank Ash gul ishi ghash 🔥👁️🔥

[@robertmcintyre2325]

No mention of Beren and Luthien? Left a lot out

[@Jerry-xc7ur]

I can't picture this voice with Sauron, it doesn't sound right.

[@el_chico1313]

imagine 1% of amazons rop budget on this guy, wouldnt that be a sight

[@fiddlechips8555]

I enjoy your flavor of storytelling. Shame you didn’t write Rings of Power.

[@NicoleStevensHays11x]

Shame you didn’t! We could use a renowned expert Tolkein gatekeeper and raging nerd like yourself to do that! Wipe the chip crumbs off your shirt, get off your dead ass, and get to work! I believe in you! With nothing to do all day any day, you’re perfect for the job! Looking forward to your final creation !!!

[@fatimabonita8255]

Omg is there a part 2.....😮

[@numenorean81]

There will be. Slow going though :|

[@TranceViking-zq5nq]

when is the next episode?

[@g3heathen209]

It'd low hanging fruit at this point but this puts rings of power to shame.

[@numenorean81]

Indeed, even my grandma could write a better script at this point :)

[@BlackSkeletonDragon]

Is this continued yet?

[@numenorean81]

Still working on it! this takes longer than I had hoped :|

[@durtyd9625]

Part 2? Part 2? Part 2? Fantastic use of AI art and Tolkien mythos!!!!!!!

[@Marcelocostache]

These fan fiction makes the Rings of Power look like a joke this should have been what the show is all about show us how Sauron became what he became not some emo haircut.

[@victorkaiowas2933]

For the sake of the one ring just do the second part of it

[@meloralovesdarkness2495]

Interesting.. Please tell more! .. Though I really do not Like it from a Cannon viewpoint.