When reading or viewing a series released in installments, there is something that is inevitable. Later installments will always add information that changes how you look at information from previous ones. The Green Ember series is certainly no exception, and few are likely to have more of an impact on how you take in the series in the future than knowing how it all ends.
With that in mind, I thought I’d put it out to our Menders. Now, chances are most of us haven’t started going through the series again since completing Ember’s End. But perhaps certain things from the past books have stuck out to you, and I invite you to share.
For me, a particular moment that has taken on new meaning comes from the very first book. It’s when Helmer is discussing the Longtreaders with Lords Rake and Ramnor. Towards the end, Ramnor makes a comment to Helmer about his training Picket: “I thought you gave up training bird bait years ago.”
Think about that comment... and then think about what happened to the King’s Arm.
Was listening to Ember Rising again, and something hit me. When Helmer kneels at Jupiter’s Crossing, it’s entirely possible that he’s on the very spot where he saw Jupiter die. As he and Picket sit there, both of them are remembering the monarch they feel they failed. Helmer is remembering how he didn’t go to the aid of the king. Picket is remembering the prince he saved in that very clearing, only to-as he sees it-send him to his death later.
If none of that jerks your heartstrings, then consider this. Depending on where Garten chained him, Helmer is facing either towards or away from where he was restrained. Odds are it’s also not that far from where he watched the King’s Arm die...
Also, has it occurred to anyone else that Helmer is probably the one who rescued Wilfred from Garten’s clutches? And that said incident may be a factor in their hostility in The Green Ember?