#tolkienoc

[emptygoldthrone]

Just wanted to share these really quickly

I was really happy with how they turned out and I wanted to share them

[foxleycrow]

For @tolkiencrackweek, it’s my self-indulgent Tolkien OC! Watercolor sketches.

Name: Elenetya, “Netya” for short Race: Ainur (Umaia) Netya is a corrupted Maia of the Stars. He was recruited into Melkor’s service shortly after the Ainur entered Arda. It is very unusual for a Star Maia to be corrupted, and because his essential nature is so unlike his master’s, Netya’s power is actually diminished by his service to Melkor. He’s not a powerhouse, like the Balrogs, and he would be no match for one of the powerful First Age Elves. However, because of his origins, he has more of an affinity to Elves than most Umaiar, so his real talent and value lies in spying and scouting among them.

Netya was corrupted because of his stubborn, independent spirit—not inherently a weakness, but Melkor offered him the freedom of complete indulgence, which ultimately tempted him too much. Of course, Melkor lied, and Netya has to do work, which he doesn’t like. As an Umaia, Netya is lazy, willful, and recalcitrant. Once a gentle, shining Star Maia, he is now a dimmed, selfish little Star Gremlin.  In his corrupted state, Netya gives off a sickly gleam. The black markings on his hands and body are intentional, and are in honor of and solidarity with Melkor’s injuries. Netya idolizes Sauron, but also fears him, because of his unfortunate tendency to shirk in his duties. He can on take the form of an Elf to disguise himself, but his transformations are not nearly as effortless or convincing as Sauron’s. If he’s caught out, Netya will do absolutely anything to deflect blame and escape punishment, including making himself seem pathetic. Netya is more than a little ridiculous (he’s a bit of a comedic villain), but like any Umaia, he can also be vicious.