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The Findaráto Diaries by Fiondil	348 Review(s)
hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 27 on 8/1/2014
Herendil deserves a medal for making Finrod laugh. I hope they can become good friends and Herendil can help Finrod navigate the court waters a bit. I really like that he seems willing to accept Finrod without judgment. And maybe that will help when his own son returns from Mandos as well. Finrod's attempt to comfort Herendil and Alundil was beautiful. In spite of his nervousness he did quite well. Herendil will be good for Finrod, and I can see why you like him so much. I like him as well. Maybe there will come a time when he can trade war stories with Alundil. It might even be good for Herendil, and even Arafinwë and Eärwen, to hear some of their experiences. Arafinwë's keeping a close rein on Finrod rankled a bit. It's completely understandable, but I feel sorry for Finrod always being treated as an elfling. On a side note, you do a wonderful job giving depth to your characters. They're not only relatable, they feel real and genuine. Is a Manwendur the same as a Lóriennildo? Is that something like a child who has been dedicated to spend their life in holy orders? (Sorry for the odd question. I'm a bit confused.) I'll go continue cheering Herendil and Finrod on :P Thanks for writing! Author Reply: Hi Hawkeye. Herendil is definitely good for Finrod and Aldundil will have an interesting relationship with Finrod later, though you'll need to read "Elf, Interrupted" to find out what that is. And Arafinwë is just being cautious. I'm glad you like my characters. I do my best to make them as 3-dimensional as possible with flaws and quirks and graces mixed. Manweduri are adult Elves whom Manwë has selected as his own. Being a Manwendur is to be recognized for one's excellence in one's particular field of expertise, for instance as a bard, or for one's devotion to Manwë, as is the case with the falconer, Sorondur, since Manwë is Lord of the Air and Birds of Arda. The Lóriennildo are similar but dedicated to Irmo and Estë and they are exclusively healers of one stripe or another, though not all of them reside in Lórien. Vardamir, for instance, would be considered a Lóriennildo, but technically only if he were living and working in Lórien. Tolkien coined the word "Aulendur" to indicate those who were especially dedicated to Aulë and under his tutelage. I merely expanded the concept to encompass the other Valar, though I've only mentioned those dedicated to Irmo and Manwë to date. I hope that clears things up a bit for you. Thanks for commenting. It's appreciated.

hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 26 on 8/1/2014
Nice work, Herendil! There's definitely more to him than meets the eye, I think. Maybe he can be the friend that Finrod needs. I'm sad that Eärnur is gone, but I suppose I can't grudge him his studies too much. Perhaps because of his history with Finrod, it helps him take less nonsense with him. Either way I was really happy to see him again. Interesting insight into Arafinwë's court. Finrod could probably learn a lot from his Atar, despite his previous experience in Nargothrond. But the same could probably be said for Arafinwë, especially once Finrod matures a bit more. Yay for taking over Atar's court. The father son teasing was fun too. Thanks for a fun and surprising chapter :) I'm looking forward to more Herendil :) Author Reply: Herendil is one of my favorite characters here and in "Elf, Interrupted". We'll be seeing more of him. And Eärnur was on temporary loan to Arafinwë, so it stands to reason that once Finrod was back on is feet, literally and metaphorically, then his work there was done and it was time to return to his studies. Finrod and Arafinwë can certainly learn from each other and once Finrod begins holding his own court, there'll be more interaction between them as they rule the kingdom together. I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter, Hawkeye. Thanks for leaving a review to let me know. I appreciate it.

hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 25 on 7/31/2014
I have to say I'm really impressed with Arafinwë in this chapter. If I were Finrod, I would have been intimidated by him. But either way, I like that he's willing to be the father that Finrod needs and not just a friend. Poor Finrod though. I can see why he's so depressed. Unfortunately his choices haven't helped. I like how his parents are at least trying to show that they love him, not just saying it. Hopefully he doesn't get in too much trouble. Arafinwë's insights are interesting. I'm going to have to check out your other story about him. I love him as a character, so I can't wait to read it. Okay, when the 'help' arrived I just about threw a party. This is exactly what Finrod needs and I love how you pulled him back into the story. Vardamir is fascinating. I'm curious, was he named after Varda? I don't know much elvish (yet). I enjoyed his interaction with Arafinwë. They seem like good friends. All in all, it's good to see Finrod back him. Here's hoping he cheers up soon and things start looking brighter for the poor ellon. Thanks for another lovely read :) Author Reply: Arafinwë is very impressive and is indeed the father Finrod needs at this time. Arafinwë figures prominently in "In Darkness Bound" and in the "Elf, Interrupted" series. Eärnur is definitely the right Elf for the job of lifting Finrod out of his depression and Vardamir is an interesting character as well and appears in my "Elf Academy series". And yes, his name means "Jewel of Varda" He was Arafinwë's chief battle surgeon during the War of Wrath and they both have each other's back. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it.

hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 24 on 7/31/2014
The image of the Valar out on the balcony watching the drama made me laugh. I half expected someone to have a bowl of popcorn. Regardless I really enjoyed the commentary. I like how he was able to impress them. I wonder Who sent the bear... Poor Finrod is probably in for it now. It was so nice to see him happy the first part of his time. His happiness was infectious, and I think it actually made me happy too. I hope in the future Finrod is able to return to the mountains. I think they're good for him, though I am biased. I adore trees and mountains. And who knows, maybe he should do some exploring of his own :) My heart went out to Arafinwë and Eärwen though. Perhaps asking for some time alone in the mountains to think things through would have been better. Not that they would have allowed it. But still. Anyway, I'm really enjoying your story. I guess I'm reading out of order. It seemed to be the first in chronological order, which is why I chose it. But it looks like I didn't even manage there. I guess I'll just have to read again :D Author Reply: The Valar are pretty funny with their comments about what is happening. As for Who sent the bear, well, if none of the Valar did, then there is only One who could have done so. And the implications of that are rather interesting, wouldn't you say? We'll see how things go for Finrod once he's back home and fully recovered. This story is chronologically first with regards to the "Elf, Interrupted" story, but not chronologically first with regards to other stories set in Valinor, but all of them can be read in any order, though you should read "Elf, Interrupted" before delving into "A Long Expected Wedding" as that story will make more sense if you do. At any rate, thanks for reading and reviewing this story, Hawkeye. I appreciate it very much.

hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 7/31/2014
Wow, this is an interesting turn of events. Finrod is quite clever, and here I think he shows quit a bit of cunning as well. I suppose that's another side effect of raising an 'elfling' with adult faculties :) I'm surprised and on the other hand, not surprised. In his defense, I think most other ellyn wound have done this a while ago. But then again, I'm reminded of the saying 'with great power comes great responsibility.' If he's going to become a great leader (again), it's probably not going to be an easy road. But, he has been through a lot, and I can't fault him for reaching his crisis point. Although it seems like he wasn't very considerate of his parents. It will be interesting to see where this all goes down. Author Reply: Finrod is being very clever and sneaky in the way he goes about running away. And of course, there will be consequences, as you will see. Thanks for reviewing, Hawkeye. I'm glad you're still enjoying the story.

hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 22 on 7/30/2014
I really felt sad for Finrod in this chapter. Unfortunately I think it's going to take him a while to prove himself to everyone. The sad thing is, he shouldn't have to. But unfortunately that's how people are. I'm definitely going to have to check out your other related stories :) And I confess, I have peeked ahead a bit. But I shall endeavor to restrain my curiosity and read one thing at a time... Or at least review ;) I'm glad that Lord Námo showed up. That's hopefully comforting for Finrod, since he seems to be moving from one difficult situation to another. I'm glad he was able to bond with his atar though. Maybe having some duties as heir will gain him som respect. I really enjoyed the chapter! Thanks for writing :) Author Reply: Hi Hawkeye. This story was not written first, but after I'd already written most of the "Elf, Interrupted" story so much of what is mentioned in this story is taken up in the other, but I wrote this one in such a way that one doesn't need to read the other stories to enjoy this one, but I think when you get around to reading the other stories, a lot of inferences and references will make more sense. At any rate, some people are just not able to be polite. And at least Námo was there to offer Finrod comfort. We'll see how things progress for him. I think some things will be improving for him soon enough and taking up some of his duties as heir should help. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 21 on 7/30/2014
I have a new favorite character if possible. Lord Oromë was fantastic. I love how even this mighty hunter was still able to calm Finrod and center him. One thing that I'm really enjoying is how "good" the Valar are. It sounds odd, but my reading experience outside of Tolkien himself typically portrays them as capricious, much like the Greek deities. It's wonderful to read a story where they are not, where they are characters both interesting and worthy of love in their own right. At first I was afraid that Arafinwë was going to be upset by what happened, or perhaps the guards would react the way the courtiers have been. I think it's going to be important for Finrod to make some friends here, and of course it was lovely to see him getting to do something with his atar. On a side note I'm glad Arafinwë took Amarië to task over her behavior. Thanks for an exciting chapter :D Author Reply: Oromë is one of my favorite Valar and I like write him whenever he deigns to make an appearance. While the Valar in my stories are flawed to some extent being created beings like all the rest of us, they are also "good" and "loving" because they are "Loved" and know it. I try to show that through my stories. Arafinwë, being a king, probably has more interaction with the Valar than most of his subjects so he's a bit more used to how they operate and is willing to "go with the flow", so to speak, and the guards are professionals and know their place and duty. I'm glad you found the chapter to your liking, Hawkeye. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it.

hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 20 on 7/30/2014
Amarië's behavior is appalling. I wanted to slap her, especially when she was so rude about the gift. I'm glad Eärwen saw it. Interesting development with the warrior braids. While I see Arafinwë's point, I can see Finrod's too. I think eventually he's going to have to come to a balance between his past and his present. The rebel in me hopes that includes warrior braids. Finrod needs hugs after that. It was especially heartbreaking to see a bit of the elfling coming out, like the shyness. The other really sad thing was that no one seems to notice him. I think everyone knows how that feels, but for Finrod it's more so. Thanks for another fun read and give Finrod a hug :) Author Reply: We'll see later in the story how Finrod reconciles his past with his present with regards to the warrior braids. Finrod is definitely in need of lots of hugs here, poor ellon. He's trying desperately to fit in and his "peers" want nothing to do with him simply because they have no idea how to treat him. Death is a great divide even after you return from it. It's unnatural for Elves to die and it doesn't happen in Aman, so these Elves just don't know what to do with Finrod. It's safer to pretend he isn't there. Thanks for commenting, Hawkeye. It greatly appreciated.

hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 19 on 7/30/2014
How cruel even Elves can be. I am disliking Amarië more and more, which is sad because I really want to like her. But, her behavior is awful. Finrod's response to her seems a bit better though. Rialcar is creepy. I wonder what did happen to his son. He must not be dead because the Maiar haven't told the family he is in Mandos. While he must be sad, his treatment of Finrod was horrid. People do act vengefully that way though. I'm really enjoying Arafinwë. I especially appreciate that he seems willing to learn and genuinely interested in Finrod's stories. That is what bothers me so much about Amarië and to a certain extent, Eärwen. To love someone means that you love the whole person. Finrod's stories and memories are his only way to share what is likely the most significant part of his life. But Arafinwë seems to be the only one willing to share that with his son. Thanks for a fun read! Author Reply: Amarië has her own issues that won't be properly addressed until we get to "Elf, Interrupted", so at the moment she is rather dislikeable. And if you want to know what happened to Rialcar's son, Laurendil, you'll have to read "Elf, Interrupted". Keep in mind that Arafinwë has been to Beleriand. He's seen the ruins of Nargothrond and spoke to those who remembered Finrod as a king. He's fought against Morgoth even as Finrod had. He and Finrod share a commonality between them that the women-folk don't have with him, so it's easier for Arafinwë to bond with Finrod as a "guy-thing". Thanks for leaving a review. I appreciate it very much.

hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 18 on 7/30/2014
"An even more urgent question — could I learn to love them all over again? Did I even want to?" Being able to clarify this question for himself is a step in the right direction, I think. I feel really bad for Finrod in this chapter. As his memories continue to return, he's also confronted by the paradox of his present emotional range and they just don't match up. I enjoyed seeing more of Finrod with Arafinwë and Eärwen in this chapter too. It's frustrating to see them just not seem to "get it," but I suppose they are probably equally as frustrated and out of their league. I also wonder what Finrod's level of maturity was when he left. He obviously wasn't an elfling, but I'm curious how much he "grew up" after leaving Aman. That alone, even if you discount dying, would have changed him a great deal from his parents perspective. I think what I'm driving at is they seem to be treating him like a child, or perhaps as the child they remember before they left and not fully grasping that, while he's their biological son, he's not the person who they remember. I think Amarië needs a bucket of ice water in the face, or her head rearranged or /something/. It's both annoying and heartbreaking to see her being so mean. I've always thought of her being this lovely person but at the moment she's acting quite the spoiled elleth. Anyway, I'm rambling. Thanks for another fun chapter :D Author Reply: Hi Hawkeye. Well, when Finrod left he was over 3000 years old, so I would think he was mature enough. Certainly he was mature enough to take over the leadership of his father's household who decided to continue on rather than return to Aman with Arafinwë and he founded his own kingdom which he ruled wisely and well for over 300 years and led his armies against Morgoth. He was an adult in every sense of the word, but now his emotional level is that of a very bright teenager and it'll just take time for him to regain the level of maturity he had prior to his death. Right now, his parents want to treat him as they remember him but he isn't that person anymore. He's had to, in effect, start all over again, and they haven't accepted this. He is a child emotionally at this point and that is not how they remember him so there's lots of confusion on everyone's part. Amarië, unfortunately, will take a lot longer to reach acceptance than Finrod's parents. We'll see how things go for her later. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it.

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