Reviews (322)

chriska · 27 December 2005 · Chapter 7: Family Matters

Hurin was a dreamer, a poet. Eru knew where he got it from. Bwah! At the risk of sounding like an incoherent, squealing fan, I <3 Halbarad! I really, truly do. Your stories make me want to run out and start a Yahoo Group dedicated to Halbarad where I can squeal and abuse punctuation all day long. The contrast between Rivendell and not!Rivendell was so stark, but I love that Halbarad sees the beauty of a simpler, less comfortable life. He seemed to be have more light-hearted fun in this chapter, even though he was surrounded by less-than-perfect people. And this: She sighed; it meant she was trying to be the responsible one. is exactly how I imagined Mrs. H would be. You've defined his character in such a way that I could imagine his better half even before she appeared. She fits your Halbarad perfectly.

Ainu Laire · 27 December 2005 · Chapter 7: Family Matters

I forgot to add a couple things: I love that Halbarad mistakes who actually controls the Bruinen! And it makes perfect sense that he would not know and would think that it was Gandalf who did so. I also noticed that I did not review the last chapter! Ai, ai, how terrible of me!... Aragorn, stop laughing. Sorry, the ranger here is laughing at me. Again. I swear, he is the meanest heir of Elendil that has ever walked this earth... *glares* But as I am much too lazy to bother actually reviewing chapter 6, I'll just add my thoughts here... I really loved that chapter. It was quite hilarious. “By sword, truly,” Halbarad whispered. “The bow issue is less clear.” “We tried,” Elrohir answered. “We did try.” *snorts* How is it that you manage to write humor and angst so perfectly, AND keep them in character? It is a talent that not many can boast to having! And I absolutely loved Dudo's lay! It cracks me up all the time. And I love Halbarad. So, so, so much. I have read only one other fan fic that made me love Halbarad so much and wish he didn't die... your characterization of him and his relationship with others is just so brilliant. I hope that, when this fic is done, you continue to write about Halbarad, as well as Aragorn... oh, it's so nice to see book-canon fan fiction. So, so, so nice. I really do love it. And I cannot believe that Bilbo told Dudo that Aragorn is meant to be king... I do hope that the hobbit says nothing foolish... but we all know that something is going to happen with the knowledge he bears. Who knows, maybe Aragorn shall find out how terrible the Nazgul are (for it seems he knows exactly how terrible they are when he first discusses them with the Hobbits in FOTR... wonder how that came along ;) ). Or maybe he'll take his first trip into Moria... or... well.. something else just as exciting. Well, whatever happens, I look forward to it! BTW, this was an excellent Christmas present (and for me, early b-day present ;) ). I hope to see the second half of this chapter soon! Maybe on the 30th? XD Hope your Christmas was good, and that your New Year will be even better, Laire

Ainu Laire · 27 December 2005 · Chapter 7: Family Matters

Oh, this was a sweet chapter! Light hearted, mostly... not too much angst. I don't like Halbarad's mom... very negative and pessimistic. It's of course good to be a realist, but she is just pessimistic and without hope. Very sad. I do wonder, though, where this is going... honestly, I have no idea XD This story will probably be a lot longer than the last one, eh? But excellent chapter... little Elanor is adorable. And I do hope Aragorn will borrow Pearblossom one day ;)

Gandalfs apprentice · 27 December 2005 · Chapter 7: Family Matters

Hi, meckinock Great chapter and a wonderful portrait of the Ranger settlement. I always enjoy comparing the similarities and differences of our portrayals. I particularly liked: Halbarad's mom (is she really modeled after--the person you mentioned? oh dear), Halbarad's love for his wife (let's hear it for mortal women--get tired of those Elves myself), Gandalf's dark hints about the river (yeah, we all know it's Elrond--but why should Gandalf be worried that it is mentioned? Doesn't everyone know that Elrond has such powers? This has to be a hint dropped for future development), the dice playing (now that's one thing I never thought of having Rangers at play doing, but of course it's an ancient game). In a way I'm glad you've divided the chapter, since it makes for all the more suspense in expecting Aragorn's arrival home. I'm eagerly awaiting it. G.A.

viggomaniac · 27 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

Nice touches in this chapter, what with Halbarad's seams popping, a drunken Elladan as troubador, and a voracious Dudo. And there was that nice little bit with a sleepy Aragorn. Aw, poor Dudo -- after all, who WOULDN'T get attached to a place like Rivendell? It sounds so wonderful. Just got your new chapter downloaded and hope to read soon. I enjoy your writing tremendously and it always brightens my day to get a story alert from you.

Dreamflower · 27 December 2005 · Chapter 7: Family Matters

Oh, this is a marvelous chapter! What a homecoming for poor Halbarad! His mother is a real harpy! But I love his little granddaughter. I hope she does name the horse "Pearblossom" LOL!

Nilmandra · 27 December 2005 · Chapter 7: Family Matters

There is just something so right about Halbarad taking his muddy, bloody, soaking wet wife and making love to her under some tree, while his cranky mother sits in the house and grouses. ROFLOL! The contrast between the Dunedain settlement and Rivendell was really well done - the differences in mortal and elf look rather stark right now. It must be very frustrating for them to be putting so much of the guard on the Shire when their own needs are great... and now they are sending boys out on patrol. Halbarad understands much, but not enough. And if he thinks Meneliel can hold her own with Elrond... well clearly its because he doesn't realize who controls the Bruinen!

Estelcontar · 11 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

Your wise, down to earth Halbarad is such a wonderful character that he made me do something I never thought I would: I did not miss Aragorn as much as I should in this chapter. Elladan's song was delightful, and I enjoyed seeing Elrond and Aragorn's loving relationship, but Halbarad's explanation to Dudo of why Rivendel is not mortals is worth is absolutely brilliant, and encapsulates in simple words what Tolkien hints about Elves and Men through his entire legendarium. Congratulations! But I still hope to see a bit more of Aragorn in the next chapter. I cán't live without him.

grumpy · 11 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

Poor Halbarad being stuffed by the elves, and outfitted in a new tunic that was perhaps made a bit to small, plus now said elves are trying to get him drunk. At least Estel is under the kind eye of his Ada, and is relaxed. I love the song that Elladan sang. "I will not say my brother is simple", very good Elladan, very good indeed. One of the things, I like best about this chapter is Halbarad's vision of what the north will be like, once Aragorn is king. "...peaple will get to live in warm dry houses, with little grey cats on the porchs.." So lovely.

Linda Hoyland · 10 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

I'm as sad as Dudo that Halabarad is leaving as I love the way you write him !I loyed the "Lay".Halbarad's vision of when Aragorn is King reminded me of that part in the Bible about the lion and the lamb.An excellent bittersweet chapter.

The Karenator · 9 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

The PI, Johnny Halbarad, looked out over the buffet table in the Imladris Waffle House and suppressed a burp that had been building like Mount St. Helens. If he ate anymore, he’d erupt like a cheap piñata in the hands of sugar-high polka dancers celebrating Buya Corona Day. Having been around these parts before, he knew the elves could pack the chow away, but the diminutive desert devourer surprised him with a talent to scarf up more crumbs than an idling 747 sucking dirt off a runway. The ravenous ragamuffin was a danger to food stores everywhere, like a rotund rat snacking his way through the last package of Twinkies. The PI was about to spew just watching the piggish punk, when the Last Homely Dad stood to call an end to the feed-fest. Halbarad figured the old guy was getting worried with a vagabond vacuum cleaning him out faster than Sauron could blink. The Dad made nice while he clamped down on the shoulder of his wandering ward. The PI figured the Dad wanted to remind the cheeky chieftain that he was still the long arm of the law, a law that regulated the whole coop. When the Dad announced to the rambunctious crowd that the cubic zirconium of Coopville was cutting her way back to the nest, a loud huzzah rocked the Waffle House. The cook and the waitresses started gathering up the dishes faster than the Skipper could run a boat and seven castaways ashore before the place took off into a frenzy of frivolity sure to cost the diner a year’s worth of wages. While the crowd was still reeling with the leviathan lowdown, one of the bookend brothers herded the PI and the gorged galley gnome down the dark alley to the Hall of Firewater and Fetid Fete. It was karaoke night. One thing Halbarad had learned in all his years of dogging the cheerless chieftain’s steps was that there was nothing that got an elf’s blood pumping like a good sing along. If cutting out had not been considered a terrible breech of the First Born’s melancholy manners, the PI would have hightailed it back to his balmy bed for a night of sweet shut eye. Instead he settled for a dank corner with a neon Barleybur’s Best Brew light buzzing over his head like a chorus of angry wasps. He let his head fall back on the wall and thought to catch forty winks before anyone noticed he had zoned out, but one of the brothers beautiful dropped into the chair next to him. “Your grandpa had funny hair and smelled roses,” the bookend said. “And you look like you’ve been pushing up pansies longer than he has, not to mention that you smell like him too.” “Nah,” Halbarad said, forcing open his eyes to peer through the smoky den of dime store ditties. “I’m just plowed cleaner than the Midwest after a big white blow.” “You think you’re skunked,” the brother said. “Take a gander at my womb mate. He’s nabbed Harry Potter’s wand and is about to belt out holiday tunes.” Sure enough, the tottering twin had snagged the mic and wobbled onto the craggy crate of a stage. Buffy, the balrog slayer, scuffled with the tanked twin for a moment, but lost the battle when the wannabe Waylon grabbed a Fender Stratocaster and started to wail. (Think Jingle Bells…requires a loose interpretation and a lot of imagination) Slogging through the mud, A ranger and his bud, Fear nothing but a bath, Standing in their path. Their job is naught short, Guarding hobbit sorts, Wielding blade and sword, They've never been so bored. OH…A ranger’s gone, A ranger’s gone, A PI’s on his trail Wolves and wizards, they’ve saved his gizzard, He’s back in Rivendell But best of all lost, The guy that they call boss, Aragorn's impaired, When finding home's lair. His rangers they don’t fear, He'll soon be swilling beer, A soon king of men, A pint is his friend. OH…A ranger’s gone, A ranger’s gone, A PI’s on his trail Wolves and wizards, they’ve saved his gizzard, He’s back in Rivendell A small seedy town, Nearly took him down, Snatched fast from his pint, A kid caused him fright. Hardly clean was he, A victim for a fee, Bested by a boy, And one lame-ass ploy. OH…A ranger’s gone, A ranger’s gone, A PI’s on his trail Wolves and wizards, they’ve saved his gizzard, He’s back in Rivendell Fear not, o' big boss, On a borrowed hoss, One can take a lots, But not one that trots. In the seedy town, Rescuers were found, A wizened science guy, And a dour P.I. OH…A ranger’s gone, A ranger’s gone, A PI’s on his trail Wolves and wizards, they’ve saved his gizzard, He’s back in Rivendell To their party of two, Right out of the blue, A pie muncher came, Dudo was his name. A mite short was he, A ranger wannabe, A bad wolf he did slay, And turned it into fillet. OH…A ranger’s gone, A ranger’s gone, A PI’s on his trail Wolves and wizards, they’ve saved his gizzard, He’s back in Rivendell We sing of their valor, Despite their sad calor, After a scrubbing, They all went out pubbing. Deeds to be recalled, A ranger and his gall, Pursued by his pal, He won't steal horses now. OH…A ranger’s gone, A ranger’s gone, A PI’s on his trail Wolves and wizards, they’ve saved his gizzard, He’s back in Rivendell “I didn’t know your brazen brother could bust a beat on a six string,” the PI said. “He can’t,” the sonorous sibling yelled above the ruckus. “You’re just ploughed.” “Like the lower forty,” Halbarad said, closing his eyes to go back to Sand Land. Ray’s Dog The dog and I want you to know that this was one fine chapter. Poor Halbarad just wasn’t made in the image of elves, not to mention having eaten well during his stay. I see him as broader across the chest and shoulders anyway. The ripping tunic made me laugh…nearly as much as Elladan’s song. If the son of Elrond didn’t have a headache the morning after, Glorfindel will give him one. So much for dignity. Still, he was delightful belting out his lay. My favorite scene was at the end when Halbarad explained to Dudo why Rivendell wasn’t for people like them. Its ageless and unchanging beauty isn’t the world of mortals. You rendered his view so beautifully, I felt sort of sorry for the elves. I felt like they were missing something they rarely, if ever, got to experience. Halbarad wasn’t blinded by the perfection of Imladris, but was able to see a beauty in mortality and in the world of men. He’s a man comfortable with who he is. I really liked that. I particularly like the part where Dudo gave the knife back to Halbarad. I thought that said a lot about the little hobbit too. Wonderful chapter, worth reading over and over. Karen

Bodkin · 8 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

I love Halbarad. (His views on Imladris have an echo in Gilraen's thoughts in the next chapter of Arwen...) His doggedness - his refusal to have fairy dust sprinkled in his eyes - his loyalty - all play a part in keeping his feet on the ground and his goal in sight. Of course, it makes things harder on him. The slightly-too-tight tunic (fancy, Dunedain for the use of) and the excess of elaborate food make a wonderful start. Poor Halbarad can't get to be a romantic hero even for a moment. Not that he would want to. Much. I'm glad to see that hobbit appetite is not intimidated though. It must be hard to be reminded - suddenly, at odd moments - that the ruthless orc-slaying twins are ancient, wise, elegant elves. Who knew not only your parents but your ancestors for a couple of dozen generations. Disconcerting and not altogether comfortable. I think elves have the danger of making men feel insignificant - as if there is no point trying because what can they do in such a small space of years. Worth it, though, to be there when Aragorn returns to the heart of his elven family. Even though he's a cuckoo in the nest, he's a much loved cuckoo. And Arwen's returning! The finest jewel of Imladris - lovely description. I wonder if Aragorn would have won her heart if he had not been raised in the guise of an elven prince? He had the best (and worst, in many ways) of both worlds. And he is better prepared to rule because of it. The Hall of Fire is great - I like Elladan's magic tricks and Elrohir's conversation with Halbarad. Especially - 'Those who are destined to straddle two worlds might as well partake of the best of both.' So true. For more than just themselves. If Elladan can disregard Glorfindel's glares so easily, he must be drunk indeed. But, if Glorfindel thinks about it, some of the guests of honour probably feel a good deal more comfortable for being treated to a bit of less ethereal entertainment. “I didn’t know Elladan played the harp.” “Nor did I.” Very funny. As are the interruptions to the song. And the comments at the end. And the question is:- Did Aragorn hear the song - or had he already fallen asleep? It's very sweet to see them all hovering over him and taking him off to tuck him in bed. Halbarad can be relieved he's in safe hands. And I so agree with Halbarad's views on Rivendell. How Gilraen endured it, I don't know. When Halbarad describes it as - well - the equivalent of being caught in a bubble of moonshine - he is right. Nothing changes, nothing ages, nothing wears out. Bilbo is already ancient in the count of his people and can rest there, but there is no incentive for outsiders caught up in its magic to try for anything. And Halbarad goes on to deliver to Dudo a very effective explanation of the difference between wishing and hoping. But I'm sorry that Halbarad and Dudo's ways are parting - they make an entertaining partnership. Looking forward to more.

RS · 7 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! This has got to be the funniest piece thus far!! If I needed a screen play for a comedy show, this would have been it!! I'm sitting on the couch reading this in between bits of laughter. It got to the point where both my kids (at different times) said "what is so funny?". Poor Halbarad, his eyes were bigger than his stomach. No problem there for Dudo!! I just about died laughing with Elladan's perfomance. Come on..doesn't Elrohir know that anybody sing and play an instrument when their drunk!!! The scene in the dining hall and Hall of Fire just came to life. I can picture myself in the celebraton just absorbing everything. Again, the interaction between Dudo and Halbarad was sweet and touching (I had to bring out the tissues again). Beautiful words from Halbarad. I love his character so much I'm starting to worry about him being by himself in his journey. Of course, being the romantic that I am, I cannot wait for the reunion with Arwen and Aragorn. The way you write, I should probably keep my tissues handy. Keep writing!

Nightsky · 7 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

Very glad to see this story updated again! Can't wait for Arwen to get to Rivendell.

Nilmandra · 7 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

I didn't even see the update notice! I must have deleted it along with about a zillion old LJ comments. Here I could have done some accounting avoidance with this and missed the chance today :D I enjoyed Halbarad's view of Imladris, and how he cannot even consider thinking that the elves had sat around with Valandil and will be looking the same fifty years into the future. He knows this is not a place he can live... he would be on a deserted island. Elladan's ode to Dudo is hilarious! He clearly had imbibed a bit much, but I say "Cheers" to that, as he was honoring someone who had helped to save Aragorn. Glorfindel needs to lighten up a bit :D I am glad to see Aragorn and Elrond at peace too. I would have voted for more ARagorn in this chapter, although I did like Halbarad too. Halbarad really can't wait to leave... but I wasnt' surprised that Dudo found him. And it turns out Halbarad really didn't need to leave so early - he found he had time for straightening out a certain hobbit after all. good chapter... and I vote for Freud :/

Dot · 7 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

God, I love your Halbarad! Dear, funny, belching, seam-popping old Halbarad. Actually, for a moment there I thought you were actually going to have him lose his dinner right there at Elrond’s table. Elladan and Elrohir are absolutely hilarious. The discussion about Halbarad’s great-great-great-grandfather “wearing his hair in long, plaited locks and dabbling in the rose garden” and how fond Saerbellas was of him had me laughing out loud. If I were Halbarad, I’d be more worried about maintaining my sanity around mischievous elves than becoming soft. I really liked the little moment where Elrond puts his hand on Aragorn’s shoulder. I was wondering if Aragorn would end up with a mighty bruise there when Elrond announced Arwen’s return but actually, Elrond seems to be doing quite well… I wish my father would call me his finest jewel - and not sarcastically either. I can’t help but smile at Dudo’s enthusiasm for everything, especially Elladan’s magic tricks. I particularly liked the conversation between Elrohir and Halbarad. They may tease one another but there’s a sense of deep friendship there too. I was glad Elrohir shared with Halbarad the peace that Aragorn and Elrond have found, even if just for now. He expressed it so beautifully and probably reassured Halbarad, even if he didn’t know he needed to be reassured. It’s a very interesting insight into how comfortable Aragorn is in this place and how he will not feel out of place in a palace someday. There are so many stories about how hard Aragorn the Ranger finds becoming a king, but really he was not only born to it, but raised to it too. Elladan is marvellous! This was hilarious: “I didn’t know Elladan played the harp,” he remarked. “Nor did I,” replied Elrohir. LOL! Hey Meckinock, I didn’t know you were a poet! Brilliant. I love the digs at Aragorn, the description of Halbarad as “morose and dour” - and the interruptions made it even funnier. It was a very powerful – and poignant - moment when Halbarad realises all that Elrohir has seen and will see. There’s something very unsettling about it. Suddenly his part in their world seems very small. I could really feel his unease and his desire not to dwell on such things. You’ve done a great job throughout this chapter in letting us sense more than see why Halbarad will never stay in Imladris for long. I love the little scene with them all looking down at the sleeping Aragorn. I think I just liked the fact that they were clearly all remembering a beloved little boy who used to do that. And it’s wonderful to see Elrond being such a father to him. “Stubborn darkness”… Great phrase. Poor Dudo :-( Halbarad may think he’s just no good at these kind of scenes, but I bet part of that is because he’s going to miss this hobbit. I had a lump in my throat the entire time Halbarad was so gently explaining why Rivendell is not for them. It actually made Rivendell come across as very otherworldly and it’s fascinating to see it like this, through a Man’s eyes. The strength of Halbarad’s belief in living life and fulfilling destiny instead of taking refuge from possible pain is very moving. He has such courage and conviction, even when he seems to know that it is his fate to sacrifice everything to help Aragorn reach his destiny. His belief in what is to come when Aragorn is king seems like a dream, but it is a realistic one – and it shows how he needs something to strive for and how humble he is in wanting a simple, peaceful life for his people. The end of the chapter is so touching. Dudo seems to understand what Halbarad needs, and he places his complete faith in him too. This is a friendship that I really hope we’ll see more of :-) Now that everyone is recovering and moving on, I’m very much looking forward to seeing the next part of the story get underway and what this long-hidden secret is!

Helen · 7 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

Aaww, Dildo is so cute :)

phoenix23531 · 7 December 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

Oh goodness, I haven't laughed that hard in a while! I'm going to get fired if you keep this up - trying to laugh under one's breath and answering the phone without chortling is really difficult after reading such a scrumptuous chapter. Halbarad at his best (or worst)! I love your characterisation of this most neglected ranger. And Saddlebags was a hoot! I especially loved the double-edge of the line "The elf standing over him smiled dangerously. 'Yes, you are.'" applying both to Halbarad's taking a bath and his assertion that he was in no way going to make it out of that room with his dignity or body intact. Elrond's interaction with Aragorn was very touching. I loved Elrond's description of the elven experience with time using art, and the gentle and generous acceptance of the union between Aragorn and Arwen. Elrond has always been my favorite character both because of his deeds and devotion to Middle Earth and because of all the hardships he has suffered. I see him as Tolkien's most tragic character and yet his most wonderful at that. THank you for doing him justice by maintaining his gentle dignity. Well, can't wait for the next chapter, so I'll say congrats for now! All the best, phoenix23531

D. · 7 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

Absolutely marvelous. There aren't enough words to describe how wonderful your Halbarad is. It's only a hair better than the astonishment that is your portrayal of the rest of the characters. I'm thrilled that this story is really just getting started (or at least that's what I gathered) because I never want it to end. The song, by the way, was a hilarious touch. As always, I eagerly await your next chapter.

daw the minstrel · 7 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

I love your Halbarad. He's so down to (Middle) earth. Feed him, water him, put him in a corner to sleep. But he still remembers that he has things to do. Are we going to see Mrs. H? But I also have to say that the moment when he thinks of his doom in the east sent a chill down my spine. It's all the more effective coming from this very practical guy. His loyalty to Aragorn is heroic even if it is less fancy than that of the future king. So is this the last we'll see of Dudo?

Gandalfs apprentice · 7 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

Hi meckinock Another triumph! I love your banquet scene, and Elladan's song is just too marvelous for words. I didn't know you were such a master of comic verse! (I'm much less happy with my own "ballad" in "Sword.") Halbarad's tribulations with the Elves were perfectly captured; I identified so well with his view of Rivendell (except I don't mind lots of soft living, either--but in the human dimension). The glimpses of Elrond's newfound peace with Aragorn are very moving. G.A.

Imrahoil · 7 December 2005 · Chapter 6: A Gift Returned

A new chapter and nobody had to poke you (real hard). Meckinock, I hope, you're not ill?! ;-) Once again I haven't wrote a proper review for any chapter, just squeaks and squeals, so I'll give it a try. Do you know that you're a real good elf writer? I was a bit afraid before they made their appearance. Doing rangers, hobbits and an Istar exceedingly well doesn't mean good elves at all. Elrohir and Elladan are probably peanuts for an ranger writer, but Elrond never is. And your Elrond in the last chapter was beautiful, the best I've ever seen (so far). You made him look sad, understanding, forgiving, all he should be, and gave him even a credible positive POV on his brother's and Arwen's choice, wow. By the way it looks like your winding the story to a close, that's a big nono, it's much too short, and we have to see dwarves yet.

RS · 1 December 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

Hello, When I pulled this fic up I realized that it was a sequal to a previous story. I thought I better read the first one to better understand this one..but I'll read the first paragraph anyway. Well, that did me in. I was sucked into the story. I was at the point of no return. I was broken out of my reverie when I felt my daughter tapping me on the shoulder asking "when are we going to have dinner". (Darn!! I have to feed my family!!!) I finally finished reading and all I can say is WOW!!! WHAT A MASTERPIECE!!! This is so BEAUTIFUL!!! My emotions are spent. Not many stories pull at my heart strings like this one. Your characters are so real!!. Such inner turmoil that Aragorn and Elrond are going through. The reconcilliation between these two took my breath away. What a beautiful moment!! I love Halbarad. His love, dedication, and devotion towards Aragorn endeared him to me. My heart sank when he described his dream regarding Minas Tirith. Knowing that he may not make it but is willing to follow Aragorn to "clear his path" gets me right here (my hand over my heart). The sacrifices each person is willing to go through for what the believe in and what they love. Gandalf--the way he talks around a certain subject but one understands; and his self-doubting makes the reader realizes that he is also a person too (though he's more than that!)who's afraid to make mistakes. The twins, Glorfindel, Saddlebags (hilarious), and Dudo--I love his devotion towards Halbarad. Wonderfully written! This story is so full of emotions that make me cry, but it does not lack humor also. The banter between ARagorn and Halbarad, the scene between Halbarad and Saddlebags...had me laughing on the floor! Halbarad has become one of my favorite characters!! I am babbling. But I just wanted to let you know how much I love and enjoy this story. Please update soon!!! I am so pleased to have read Viggomaniacs angst list. I would not have read this if it weren't for her. If you have any way of getting in touch with Viggomaniac please tell her THANK YOU!! and Thank you for this wonderful work..hurry up!!!

D. · 22 November 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

Well, you've certainly outdone yourself with this one. Apparently writing the meeting with Aragorn and Elrond was giving you a bit of stress? Well you could have fooled me... that was the most beautiful, flawless, magnificient of any of the "reconciliations" out there. I think it's also the most true to each of their characters. You do a phenomenal justice to these two very complex individuals... I'm constantly amazed by your work. In fact, I think this is so believable and so spot on that I'll probably have trouble separating it from actual canon when I read or watch the movies. Then again, I don't really want to separate it because if I had my druthers they would have had this conversation somewhere in the appendices. Sigh. Marvelous.

viggomaniac · 2 November 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

I'll say 'uncle' right now, because there's simply no way to top 'The Karenator's' review. It was so good I had to print it off. Good grief, I'm still laughing. As always, I begged and begged and begged for the new chapter and what did I do when it finally was posted? I waited a week and a half before I read it! But not to worry -- it's only because I had to satisfy my own peculiar habits. I always print off my favorite stories as soon as they are posted, but I don't always read them right away. There has to be a sufficiently lousy day weatherwise, where I can curl up on my couch with a cup of hot chocolate, the family has to be away, and the house has to be clean, before I can sit down and REALLY enjoy reading a story. Unfortunately, it's hard to meet all those standards, especially if I sit around reading fan fiction and am lazy to boot. Ah, but the wait was worth it. I just love your stories. Halbarad's confrontation with 'Saddlebags' was priceless. The wit with which you endow his character is an absolute delight. Honestly, I can just imagine that ultra-manly ranger feeling hopelessly hemmed in by the elvish environment. And your description of 'Saddlebags' -- masterfully done. Elrond's gentle ribbing of Halbarad seems to be something the ranger can't quite grasp, but he came close. But drat! That darn painting! We all know what's going to happen to the Rugged Ranger someday, but that grim reminder was really quite sad. Ah well, he is never one to shrink back from doing what's best for everyone. And you have captured that very well in this chapter. Your stories give me such a profound respect for this courageous man, the humorous scenes all the more touching because of the depth of his character. And lastly, the Elrond/Aragorn reconciliation. Beautifully and subtly done. I am SO in love with the concept of Elrond being torn emotionally by the Aragorn/Arwen love affair. Who wouldn't be? And yet, underneath it all, his emotions don't rule the day. Agonizing as it might be for Aragorn and Arwen to have to wait for him to become the rightful king, Elrond, like Halbarad, must keep in mind the greater good of Middle-earth. And of course, this makes for wonderfully bittersweet fan fiction. But the ending here -- what a sacrifice Elrond is making nonetheless. And Gandalf, that crafty wizard -- he must be pleased with the turn of events. Oh well, I've rambled enough. Just have to thank you again for this tremendously captivating story. I look forward to your next chapter (although I suppose that doesn't surprise you).