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The Findaráto Diaries  by Fiondil 11 Review(s)
hawkeyeReviewed Chapter: 6 on 7/28/2014
So, I got my reviews mixed up so some of last review was intended for this chapter *dies of embarrassment* But, on with the review.

I loved Yavanna, especially the way she was able to draw Finrod out. I think, hope, that the knowledge that his death was not in vain will help Finrod to work through some of his own hurts. It's interesting to me that some of these hurts are still there, even after dying and coming to life again. But on the other hand, I think that in the long run Finrod's ability to draw on the experiences of his previous life will really help him. Oh, and I loved the scene at the end with Námo and Yavanna. The reminder that even the Valar can be awed by an elf was lovely.

Author Reply: Don't worry about it, Hawkeye. It happens.

I'm glad you like Yavanna and how she draws Finrod out. Finrod still has a way to go before he can accept that he did not die in vain and that he has much to offer in his new life.

And since the Valar had no hand in creating Elves (or Men), then they are often in awe of them and what they can do. They are a continuing source of surprise and delight for the Valar and the Maiar.

Thanks for leaving a review. It's very much appreciated.

SitaraReviewed Chapter: 6 on 7/13/2009
A most moving chapter, Fiondil, I have to admit. The image of a kneeling Finrod, in remorse and pain, grooming that plant lying among the scattered rose petals and damaged bushes with his tears is really touching. What he should understand of all this, among other things, is that his regrets and will to undo the damage he’d caused have indeed the power to make the difference. In my opinion, at least. “smile”. The yellow flower will come again to life, thanks to Yavanna’s powers and, in time, maybe other things as well. Like the ties between Eru and His Children, I’d say.

I have also to agree with Yavanna and Namo’s reasoning in regard to death as part of Eru’s plans for Arda. Especially with their reasons to keep hoping and looking past Morgoth’s darkness and destruction. Having among them once more one of the Exiled Noldor, who once went away in order to follow an illusion, is the proof that their efforts were worthwhile. Although I’d have plenty to say about Finrod’s particular situation, the fact he’d died protecting another cannot be denied. Nor that his sacrifice opened a whole new path for Middle-Earth’s people, as the Lord of Mandos-No-Man-or-Exiled-should-step-in-Aman has just said. “grin”

Well, another excellent chapter, Fiondil. And…I apologize again.


Author Reply: I am glad you liked this chapter, Sitara. Sorry it took so long to respond to your review but I still suffer from lack of internet. At any rate, what you say here about Finrod is very true. Tbanks for sharing your views on him and his situation.

EllieReviewed Chapter: 6 on 7/9/2009
Loved the wicked desire to hide an ent in each of the gardens. That was too funny! Survivors guilt is a horrible thing and it looks like poor Finrod has much to suffer through before he will accept that it is okay that he is alive again. The love Namo shows him is wonderful. I still find it amazing how the Valar in their might can make the Eldar look as small children and yet when the Eldar are depicted on their own, then they are the mighty ones.

Looking forward to the next chapter!

Author Reply: Hi Ellie. Well, the Elves are indeed Children and in the eyes of the Valar very young so it's easy to see how this would be. At the same time, of course, the Valar do treat the Elves generally with grave respect. Finrod and other reborn are a special case in that they are to a certain extent 'children' or certainly child-like in their responses.

I am glad you are looking forward to the next chapter. Thanks for reviewing. I really appreciate it.

Kaylee ArafinwielReviewed Chapter: 6 on 7/9/2009
I'm glad Yavanna isn't going to punish Finda further. And then, of course, there's this...

"So now, there is only one last question that needs answering," he said.

Findaráto turned his head to look up at the Vala, his brows creased with renewed worry. "Wh-what question?"

Námo arched an eyebrow. "Why the question of who gets to eat the last scone, of course."

Findaráto blinked at the unexpectedness of the reply and then, without taking his eyes off of Námo, he reached out and snagged the last scone, bringing it to his mouth and slowly taking a bite. Námo threw back his head and laughed, giving Findaráto another hug.

"Hey! That was my scone, you naughty elfling," Yavanna protested in mock anger, fighting not to laugh. "Just for that, I’ll have to come up with a suitable punishment."

Findaráto wasn’t sure if she wasn’t being serious, and he wondered if he should apologize before something bad happened to him but just then Olórin came to his rescue bearing another plate of scones and a fresh pot of tea.


I think you get the last scone, Atar Fiondil. It's your story, after all. *beams*

Tye-melin,

Kaylee!

Author Reply: Thanks, Kaylee. I'm glad you think I should get the last scone. *lol* And I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. Thanks for letting me know. Tye-melin.

njomoReviewed Chapter: 6 on 7/8/2009
Hi Fiondil,

There are some precious gems in this chapter. Finrod’s line, "I... I hurt the flowers," makes me want to laugh and cry at the same time. But when the flower drooped I was ready to cry along with Finrod. "Look, look what your tears have wrought." That is quite beautiful scene. And I also like the opening sentence. That and Yavanna's surveyal of the damaged garden set the tone for the rest of the chapter very well.

And yes, Finrod's reaction to the sight of the destruction he wrought is quite telling and speaks well for him. I love Yavanna's answer when Finrod says he doesn't want to live again. And what Námo tells him is just the right thing.

You've done a great job at articulating what Finrod is thinking and feeling at this time. It made me remember how difficult it was at certain times when I was young to figure out why I felt like I did and how hard it was to explain to anyone. In fact it was near impossible. I've probably said this at least once before, but Finrod (and the rest of the reborn) are so lucky to have such guardians and guides as the Maia and Valar.

As always, thanks very much!

Joanne





Author Reply: Hi Joanne. I'm glad you were able to find so manz gems in this chapter. Interestingly enough, they are my favorite parts of the chapter, too. *grin* I'm also thrilled that you think I've done such a great job in articulating Finrod's thoughts and feelings. I've tried not to make it all too schmalzy.

Thanks for your lovelz review. I really appreciate it.

KittyReviewed Chapter: 6 on 7/8/2009
As amusing as Yavannas idea to put an Ent into her garden is, I fear Námo is right; the shock would be too much for newly Reborn.

The way Yavanna treated Finrod did probably much more good than if she had really punished him. I think he has learned his lesson; and the bit with the single bloom he replanted and that then started to recover and even glow was lovely!

Looks like they finally got to the heart of the matter – the ‚whys’ surrounding his death and rebirth that are so difficult to grasp for Finrod. The two Valar were very nice to Finrod, and I think it will help what Námo told him about what his death achieved. Finrod might not understand all of the implications at the moment, but in time he may and feel better about it all. And even now it must be comforting to know that he didn’t die for nothing and that the Valar honour him for what he did. He needs the comfort, me thinks.

The end left me snickering. No doubt, the ownership of that scone was the most important question in all of Arda :D

Author Reply: Hi, Kitty. I think every time a Reborn messes up one of the gardens Yavanna recontemplates the idea of sticking an Ent in each one. Even the Valar have their fantasies. *grin*

Yavanna knows that Finrod was merely acting out his own frustration and anger and the garden was an easy target. Asking him what he was going to do to rectify his destruction was more productive than any 'punishment' she could have ministered. He has definitely learned his lesson.

Knowing the reason behind his tantrum of course helps the Valar to address the actual problem and help Finrod to come to terms with what cannot be changed. I think once he begins to remember Beren and all that happened between them he will see his death in a new and more positive light.

Glad you liked the ending. Námo does have a knack of lightening up the situation when necessary. *grin*

Thanks for reviewing, Kitty. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter.

Agape4GondorReviewed Chapter: 6 on 7/8/2009
This was lovely - I'm glad there was no further punishment. How does one grow if one is always afraid, always looking over one's shoulder.

Nicely done.

Author Reply: True, Agape. If one only knows fear, there can be no real growth. As Yavanna said, he's been punished enough by his own hands and every time he sees the scars on his palms he'll remember the lesson of the thorns.

LarnerReviewed Chapter: 6 on 7/8/2009
It is good to see the healing coming. Wonderful!

Author Reply: Thanks, Larner. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. Yes, healing is coming, slowly but surely.

6336Reviewed Chapter: 6 on 7/8/2009
Good, Finderato is finally starting to make some connections.
Hm, I would notm mind being 'punished' with a Cream Tea! More please,
Lynda

Author Reply: Would that all punishments included a Cream Tea. *lol* And yes, he's making connections. It'll take some time and we know that even a century later he'll still be making them, but this is a beginning.

ThalaneeReviewed Chapter: 6 on 7/8/2009
I love this chapter, especially the bit at the end! After having to get up very early today and listening to two surprisingly boring lectures I was ready to drop down somewhere and give up on the rest of the day, but after laughing like that about the scenes in this chapter I feel much better. Thanks for brightening another day! (only two weeks to go until I´m finished with the exams... I can hardly wait for it- I might even be able to catch up on my sleep ;-) )
Reading the beginning I really wanted to give poor Finrod a hug.

I wonder what Finrod will be up to next?

Greetings, Thalanee

Author Reply: Hi, Thalanee. Ouch! Two boring lectures in a row. That's not good. *lol* Glad though that this chapter made you feel much better and brightened your day. Good luck on your exams. I'm sure you will do well. Thanks for taking the time during this busy period to let me know how much you are enjoying this story. I greatly appreciate it.

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