Reviews (322)

The Karenator · 27 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

Johnny Halbarad, PI, cracked open a sticky eye. Nope, he wasn't in Kansas anymore. The decor of the room suggested he had landed in the Ritz Carlton or, if he was lucky, in Miss Notyurnana's Home for Wayward Girls. The mirror over the bed voted for the happy home of the wayward. Halbarad was not, however, easily distracted from a duty that had taken more time than balancing the Dunedain budget, a budget that had to support a population the size of a Muppet movie on a cow, a goat and a mangy ranger's salary--which was nothing. Where was the duty anyway; the friend he had lost times often than the Braves had lost the playoffs? The PI was thinking the best way to gad about the place to look for the misplaced chieftain was by streaking, but changed his mind when his southern end went numb from a breeze colder than if the outhouse door had been left open. There were some things even a ranger wouldn't do. As if being stuck in a room the temperature of a meat locker wasn't enough, the house doc meandered in. The guy looked like Vincent Price after a vampire had relieved him of all his platelets, leaving a pasty Gumby figure that bordered on being Twiggy's twin. Sad Sack, also known as Saddlebags, was the kind of doc a smart guy would sue for the malpractice. Just the fact the weasel breathed was enough of a reason to obtain legal counsel and carry a 9" blade at all times. The guy acted like a fairy and if the PI was a betting man--and he was,--he'd toss down a coin that the guy grew pansies as a side job. A doc who dabbled more in dirt than dainty toiletries would normally be the PI's kind of guy, but this ghost of Freddy Krueger made Halbarad's short hairs stand up like they were Gomer Pyle saluting Sergeant Carter. Leave it up to this guy, Halbarad figured, and he would be appearing on Oprah with the sallow sawbones to discuss trust issues. Halbarad trusted him all right, with stopping 9 inches of cold steel between his ribs. No matter, this PI could sing show tunes until the pallid pill peddler pranced off to pick another peach to poke and prod. Halbarad had counted on brown nosing the guy until Casper showed up with a china bowl full of scented water. Casting out all ideas of being nice to the pansy pusher, Halbarad set his jaw and said, "I see dead people." Spookybags sneered. "So what? I know the Great Pumpkin and he ain't gonna put up with you smelling like The Corpse Bride." Before the two could audition for the WWF, the Last Homely Dad peeked around the door. "What's up, doc?" Scaryfairy backed up and pretended to bow, but the PI knew his kind; the waspy wraith was checking out the Homely Dad for major arteries. Nothing short of a stake to the heart and recall on his wit by Mattel would stop this dark leech from Mordor's moat. The bloodless boob left, unwillingly and with a chip on his shoulder, but he took a powder, gandering the Homely Dad one last time like he was straw connected straight to a pumpkin slushy. The PI was sure he heard the sounds of an occupied belfry when the pale phantom disappeared in a poof of guano. "So what's eating at you, Halbarad Van Helsingion?" the lord of the Homeliest Homely House asked. Waving his hand through the air like a white flag, the PI burped up the last sausage he had eaten on the emergency run. "Nothing," he said, now waving the odor of rank sausage and rank ranger from his nose. "You look like the Wicked Witch cooked your gizzard," the Dad said. "Nah," Halbarad said. "I got my garlic and my pail of water to melt her warts. But I spend more than my usual drop-in with the Man of Sand. He was in a real yakky way." The Dad's eyes lit up like the Democratic Party seeing new poll results. "A dream?" he asked. "A nightmare to put Doctor Frankenstein into a catatonic state," the PI said, wondering if a guy who'd keep a blanched banshee on staff could be trusted. "Tell me about it," the Dad said, wringing his hands in the same kind of gushing glee the guy with the axe got right before he lopped a head. "Well, you see," the PI said pointing to a painting on the wall depicting a yellow brick road, "I was out for a stroll and all these flying monkeys were dive bombing me. There was this guy dressed up like an oil can and another dressed up like a haystack. I was carrying this flag. You know the kind with a skull and crossbones painted on it like Happy Jack's, the burger joint down in the red light district of Tharbad. Then I saw Aragorn all dressed up in a blue gingham dress and sporting these ruby red slippers." "It was the sausage," the Homely Dad said as he waved his hand in front of his face. "But I didn't get to the part where all I got were rocks in my trick or treat bag," Halbarad moaned. "I was getting to the best part, the part where a beagle flies on his doghouse and shoots down all the monkeys." The Homely Dad stood up and put some distance between himself and the bumptious burper. Snatching the picture off the wall, a picture painted by some whacked out guy who'd never laid an eye on the road, the Dad waged a bony finger at the PI. "Stay put or I'll round up Lon Chaney to sit guard at your door and howl." "Where you going with the Road to Wiz?" the PI asked. "Somewhere where it will be safe and sound," the Dad replied, looking over the painting like it was his long lost relative. "The place all wizzes go: The water closet." ### The Homely Dad blew the dust off the throne and took in the crepe drape hanging over the shower. The Road to Wiz would look perfect hanging here. Feeling more talented than Galadriel with a bolt of burgundy, he strolled like the master of interior design to check up on his foster son; the mangiest ranger of them all. Instead of finding the begrimed bogtrotter tucked into bed like a dried pea in dirt, he found the smutched son baking in the sun with a tinfoil plate catching rays. A halo of light reflected on the maggot white mug of the ranger."You know the sun will make you look like a crow landing pad?" he said. "It's an art form," the ranger replied tilting the pie pan to catch the best bake. "What is the purpose of art, my corrugated charge?" the Dad asked in a voice so mellow Donovan once lipped out some lyrics about him. Aragorn grinned like the only rooster in a hundred leagues from the sea. "To get chicks." The Dad got a buckle in his gut, but there was only so much he could do when the chick was looking for somebody to henpeck. "And yet even chickens," he said, "whose ability to lay eggs may outlast the stoutest rooster, weary of cracked eggs. The hen may sit upon it as it is her gift from The Great Beak, but eggs scramble and become too rotten to hold in fond memories. Even her coup will crack and crumble beneath the weight of years. Someday maybe the whole farm will fall, and yet this chick endures, untouched by the forces of commercial egg production. What will your art be to her then? She is powerless to stop laying, to protect herself from the ravages of time. But as much as you, we would remember all the eggs destined to be lost - a perfect oval, a globe of yolk, a cloister of cholesterol, a spring sphere, a runny rose. How can things we love pass from our sight and be lost forever? It is a mystery beyond the understanding of any but The Great Beak.” Aragorn’s face was tight; his gaze fixed woodenly ahead. "I," he stammered, "I..I want to be the best roasted rooster I can be." The Homely Dad smiled sadly. "I had hoped my greatest omelets were behind me, and I desperately wished to save those eggs I love from cracks and frying pans. But that which I love is mine to hold in a rusty coup only, not to build wire fences around to keep the roosters out." Aragorn punched his hand into the air. "All right!" Defeated and feeling lower than American Idol's ratings, the Dad said, "I have sent for the chick to return to the farm." "No way!" the ranger yelped louder than a poodle sighting the mailman. "Way," the Dad intoned as a gray blur, hovering in the air above them, caught his eye. The wizard had his wand pointed at the Dad. Tiny sparks flew from its end and the Dad knew then, he had been jinxed more than Darren Stephens. The Dad smiled; he wondered what the wizard would look like without a beard. Ray's Dog What a terrific chapter, Ranger. Halbarad swatting Saddlebags' hand away made me laugh. I loved the discussion between Elrond and Aragorn. Guys rarely seem to just come out say what they've got to say...especially if there's emotional baggage being toted around. Talking about art was a great way to smooth the way for these two guys to hit their points without actually having to get messy. I loved the entire discussion. In fact, I loved this chapter! I think I've already read it four or five times...of course, I had to help the dog while he was trying to string something together. I can't say 'something coherent', because that's not an essential. I'm looking forward to more, Karen

Estelcontar · 24 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

Being a Latin American you had me once again jumping all over the place to the eternal disgust of my better half, who was sure I had lost it completely. I was so afraid you had given up on the story! That made me sad because I was sure you would write a reconciliation scene between Aragorn and Elrond which would be worth reading. I couldn't have been more right. It was a very touching scene, and very much in character too for both of them - at least the way I've always understood them to be: compassionate and selfless persons who love each other deeply and who suffer from hurting each other. I imagine that must have been very difficult to write. Your Halbarad never ceases to amaze me. That bit were he finds himself "oddly homesick for bare plank floorboards and threadbare" is so revealing and sounds so true. And thanks for giving us the wonderful light moments with poor Saddlebags (I was trying to figure out how you would come with a Elvish name that would fit, and Saerbellas does perfectly. If it didn't, the entire effect would be a bit ruined, wouldn't it?). They balance very effectively with the emotion that follows.

grumpy · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

What a great chapter to wake up too. Halbarad clad in his rosey sheets being backed into a corner by a orchid growing, wraithlike healer, who wants to give him a bath. Don't you just love the elves and rangers. That was some dream that Halbarad had, it was quite brave of him to go into battle knowing what was going to happen to himself. Elrond did put the painting in Arwin's room right? I love how you wrote Elrond and Aragorn coming back together, and that Elrond was going to speak to him as a man, not a lord or a father. Wonderfully done. looking forward to more.

Apsenniel · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

As always, beautifully written. I was just thinking about this story yesterday, wondering if an update would come soon. The relationship between Aragorn and Elrond is wonderfully fleshed out in your story. I can feel the tension and sadness between them. I'm happy to see that Gandalf is setting Elrond on the right path here....and hopefully, Aragorn will follow as well.

Linda Hoyland · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

Welcome back !I was so pleased to find your update as was my friend.A great chapter full of humour and pathos.I loved Halbarad and "Saddlebags" and was very moved by Halbarad's vision of his death.Also a very touching scene for Elrond and Aragorn.

Rose Sared · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

How you bring these characters to breathing life. Just wonderful writing, and the most delightful exploration of family relationships - and funny! Saddlebags indeed. Well done, very well done. To be treasured, read again and saved for more re-reads. Rose

Dot · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

You know, I think the author must be a ranger at heart because there’s a wonderful sense of almost-sarcasm in the descriptions of Rivendell that I don’t think can be solely attributed to Halbarad ;-) It’s rather bewildering to think how much time elves can invest in creating furniture, drapes, etc., though, isn’t it? Halbarad is as hilarious as ever. He’s the kind of person I wish I knew in RL. His thoughts about people not remembering where they put him and the “traitorous lout” Elrohir were hysterical, as was the part where he throws off the sheet and quickly realises he’s better throw it back on again. I also love the way he just decides he’s getting up and that’s that, with no thought to whether he’d actually be able to – and then getting into trouble like a naughty schoolboy. On a slightly random note, I want to tell you how much I adore the phrase “angry swish of robes.” Brilliant. And Saddlebags!! I had to stop myself from scrolling down to see what his real name was because I couldn’t remember it. Well, these two are never going to be friends. Especially if Saddlebags insists on wanting Halbarad to be clean. “What odor? I smell as sweet as meadow grass!” Uh-huh. After it’s been turned into silage. I love the line about his mother-in-law too and then Halbarad pondering his options and realising that “spindly old Saddlebags had undoubtedly slain more orcs than Halbarad had seen in his lifetime,” even if it was a couple of thousand years ago. I imagine Elrond had a fair idea what he just walked in on! Poor Halbarad seems completely disconcerted by the thought of being teased by the Lord of Imladris. “It has been said that Saerbellas’s bedside manner is better suited to his beloved orchids.” *chokes* I love funny Elrond. At least Halbarad is relaxing enough around him to joke a bit too – even if he is mortified a moment later. And it was a lovely moment when Elrond thanks him for bringing his son home. The moment when Halbarad sees the picture of Minas Tirith and his dream comes rushing back to him is amazingly well done. And that flashback. So powerful. God, you really know how to write. I like the way Elrond knows immediately that there’s more to this than just a dream. In that moment too, there is a connection between this elf-lord and ranger. They both know the terror and loss and sacrifice that the future will bring but they will both face it and they will make the sacrifices asked of them out of hope for all and out of love for one man. I love Halbarad in that moment where he recognises his fate and accepts it if it means that Aragorn will achieve his. “I promise, Master Dúnadan,” he said finally. “His way will be clear.” That made me pause. It was a great moment. Sometimes it takes someone else for us to see something in a new light or push us to making a decision. And when I read where Elrond chose to hang the painting I admit I got a little teary! That took a lot of courage, even if he knows what has to be done. I guess there’s no going back now. The part with the box was beautiful. But it’s sad to think that all that Elrond has known has changed, even though love will endure forever. Elrond had carefully guarded the affairs of his own heart from scrutiny, even as he had passed judgment on Aragorn’s. There’s something very poignant about that, even as it gives us a glimpse at a part of Elrond that he probably doesn’t like to acknowledge. It’s selfish, but only in that he feels the need to protect himself – I think we’d all do the same. The discussion of art, and of the need to preserve that which will not last was so moving. In some ways there’s a desperation in Elrond – and in all elves, I guess – and in his desire to find some way to preserve those things and people that will be lost to them that isn’t in men, at least not to the same extent. Elrond’s take on Elros’ legacy in comparison to his own is fascinating and it certainly gives more weight to Aragorn’s future. And Arwen’s. I get the impression that Elrond needs Aragorn to believe that he understands the greatness that lies before them and the reasons that they would choose that path more than perhaps he truly does. The ending to this chapter is beautiful. I’m so glad there will be some measure of peace between Elrond and Aragorn, even if they both know the pain that lurks beneath. And I like the idea of Gandalf (I assume that’s who it is) witnessing this reconciliation and Elrond’s display of courage and love. Fantastic chapter. I enjoyed every second. I can’t even begin to describe how much I love your writing. Now, how’s Dudo doing and has Halbarad beaten up Elrohir yet?? :-)

fliewatuet · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

Perfect update-timing: This chapter made for some nice reading on a lazy Sunday afternoon :-) Elrond seemed in a much better shape after being put to bed by Glorfindel in the previous chapter. I am glad that he and Aragorn came to an understanding at last and managed to overcome their differences. But Halbarad and Saddlebags were absolutely hilarious. And I loved the almost easy banter between Halbarad and Elrond, though Halbarad's vision of the battle of Pelennor cannot be easily put aside. It's really a curse to live with the knowledge of your own end and without the possibility to talk with someone about it. As much as I would like to see Halbarad live to see Aragorn crowned, I am glad you gave him the opportunity to talk about his premonition with Elrond. Though even Elrond could do nothing to alleviate his fears. With everyone on the mend, I am beyond curious what the 'main' part of the story will be. Greetings, fliewatuet

Nilmandra · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

I love your Halbarad. Why is it I think Elrohir is going to laugh at him when he threatens the 'traitorous lout', as he so inelegantly called him? But Saddlebags is too much - if I were Halbarad I'd have been scrambling away from that sponge bath as well. Although, I conced the point that he more than likely needed one. I really liked that Elrond was able to banter with Halbarad... that he has that kind of connection with people. Your use of that humor is reminiscent of how Elrond spoke to Bilbo at the Council. Which leads into the reconciliation - wonderfully done. I like how Elrond decided he needed to approach Aragorn as a man, not as a lord, an elf, or a father. Whether he believed all he as saying as a true reflection of his heart, they were words true and right for Aragorn and Arwen and that time. It is a strong and wise person who can set aside their own interests and loss and pain for the hope and joy and good of others. This was well worth waiting for.

daw the minstrel · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

I love the rythm of the second sentence, where the "fidgeting" jumps out at us at the end. LOL. Halbarad's thoughts just crack me up and always have. Elrohir as a "traitorous lout" is a new one on me. relaxed as an old dog lying in the sun. Great image. Halbarad's vision of his future is chilling. And it's an inspired intro to talk about death or immortality, a topic Elrond obviously has on his mind. The talk with Aragorn is so right and moving. This is a wonderful chapter, meckinock. Every line is so well done and it all fits together.

utfrog98 · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

Powerful chapter to an intriguing story. Thank you.

Bodkin · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

If I commented on everything I loved, the review would end up longer than the chapter, so I'll just have to overlook some bits - but don't think I didn't appreciate them. I love Halbarad, lying in bed thinking that in a house the size of Rivendell it could be days before anyone remembers where they put him! (I can just picture elves turning up to spring-clean coming across the starved corpses of forgotten guests! Not.) And his uncomfortable response to luxury is just so him. His battle with the mattress told that he was nowhere near as well as he would like to pretend - just as well it wasn't fighting back. I love his battle of wits with Saddlebags - although it's just as well that Elrond called time, because Halbarad was not onto a winner there. (The odour of unwashed Dunadan debate - and Halbarad fighting against proving his mother-in-law's accusations to be true. Priceless.) Joking with Elrond! Whatever next. Such a lovely light atmosphere of warm approval - and then - bam! The picture of the White City and all the foresight of orc armies, danger, sacrifice and death. Powerful. Arwen's box - beautiful. Love, memory, age, loss. So many things conveyed. And the placing of the painting - Elrond has such courage. And the way he dealt with Aragorn - who is no longer his foster son, just out of boyhood, but a man, who understands far better than he did then the bitter side of heroism. Such a sad meeting - yet offering love and promise and trust. And in speaking so openly and showing his vulnerability - and in asking Arwen to return home, Elrond has done his best. I hope Mithrandir approves. I was so pleased to see this! Delightful.

Imrahoil · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

So you have found a day. Have to read it yet. But yay for updates.

Bodkin · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

I haven't read it yet - but I'm punching the air! Yes! Halbarad gets up. Probably. I'll get back to you.

Ainu Laire · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

Woo! I actually screamed with delight when I found that this had been updated. Oh my, what a chapter... the vision Halbarad got was absolutely chilling. And true. Oh, I hate how it is true, for I do love Halbarad. He does not get enough recognition, and he seems to me to be such a great character. Heheh, but I did love his encounter with 'Saddlebags'. What an annoying elf. But very funny, that whole bath scene XD That talk with Aragorn and Elrond was a bit of a tear-jerker. Oh man, oh man, oh man... Do not take so long to update next time! :P

Gandalfs apprentice · 22 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Clearing the Way

hi meckinock So happy to see your new chapter. It's very moving! Congratulations. G.A.

Imrahoil · 17 October 2005 · Chapter 4: Homecoming

Meckinock, are you still out there? Somewhere? Preferably WRITING? It's a bit early to go hibernating. I don't want to rush you of course *oh yessss, we would* but ...

Strider's Girl · 11 October 2005 · Chapter 4: Homecoming

Not sure if you remember me, but I used to leave reviews for your other story on this site. I'm the strange one which is obsessed with Aragorn...pain and torture...but then I think every Aragorn fan is. I gave up looking for the sequel to start many months ago, so it never occured to me you would actually get around to writing it! And I'm pleased to say it is living up to my expectations! It was only on a whim I decided to look to see if you had written anything. You've made my day now! Having just recently found out that I've got Kidney Failure, and have had to go into Dialysis very quickly, reading your story has brought a smile to my face. Your writing and characterisation is fantastic and if there was an awards ceremony for best fanfic writer, it would go to you. No problem. I absolutely adore how you've characterised Elrond. Perfectly. Hope you keep up the great work and you update soon! I hope it is soon as this story is excellent! Hope to read more soon! Strider's Girl

viggomaniac · 4 October 2005 · Chapter 4: Homecoming

Okay, the cheater review again. Any chance for an update? I would have e-mailed you but when my hard drive failed last month I lost some of my saved documents, including your addy. Hope RL is being kind to you and that you will soon be updating your brilliant story. I also hope you don't mind my incessant pestering! Take care.

Thundera Tiger · 16 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Homecoming

Ah, the elves. And the calm after the storm. This was exactly what the story needed, especially after such a tightly written dramatic sequence. Brilliant chapter on rest and recovery. It's my opinion that these chapters can be among the most difficult to write. There's a complete mood change required, loose ends to tie, new foundations to build, etc. But it has to be done within the context of a story well underway. And of course, you pull it off perfectly. I award you the medal of ingenuity for giving Tillfield something with which to identify Elrohir and Elladan. I knew that bump in the river would prove useful! As for Tillfield himself, I loved seeing Rivendell through his eyes. The idea that everything prior to this now seemed dull and lifeless is a brilliant description, and it hints at what Tolkien spoke of in some of his essays. It's dangerous for mortals to spend too much time in the world of the elves because it's difficult to return to their own world afterwards. Halbarad and Aragorn have obviously made the adjustment, but I wonder how Dudo will handle it. The fact that Bilbo was forced to return to it suggests that hobbits might not be as resilient in this as they are in other matters. But putting future speculation aside, I very much enjoyed Dudo's tour of Rivendell with Elrohir. Elrohir himself was fantastic. This is the son of Elrond without the press of fear and urgency, and he's a fascinating character. I loved the way nobility shone through, but there was also an heir of mischief. He's not the lord of the house, and though he is the lord's son, he doesn't have to uphold the weight that Elrond does. He can be a bit more like the elves who wander around singing Tra-la-la-lally, and he shows it here when he teases Tiriel. That was a fun dialogue. Also fun was Bilbo's cameo. Aragorn's waking moments were brilliantly disjointed and confused, and then Bilbo's entry into the picture seemed to be a capstone of sorts. Of all the people to meet in Rivendell! But prior to that, I loved the hazy sequence in which Aragorn sees his people lost and Arwen grief-stricken. It's a very telling character moment about what he fears most and what he has to lose if he fails. I wish more stories would get at the heart of what drives Aragorn the way this one does. You have painted one of the most complete pictures of my favorite Dunedan Chieftain in the fandom world, and you've made it look effortless. I am more than a little jealous. And moving forward with the Aragorn characterization, we find Elrond. I love the awkwardness in their relationship and the fact that they're both dancing around the issues. It's like having the elephant in the corner that no one will discuss but that no one can ignore. Aragorn solves the problem very neatly and in true rogue Ranger fashion by going to sleep, and though I wish he'd get the confrontation over with, I have to applaud his solution. Which leads us to one of the most natural philosophical conversations I've ever read. Perhaps part of its success is that it never presents itself as a philosophical conversation. Rather, it feels like a natural discussion between two lore masters who have just endured something very trying. But the observations they make and the conclusions they draw are tight and thought-provoking. I love the idea that part of Aragorn's gift is the fact that he will not give up on things. And I love the way Aragorn's burden is laid out in such blunt terms by both Gandalf and Elrond. One way or another, it will all end with Aragorn. I've never heard it stated so clearly and plainly before, so thank you for that! And thank you for addressing the issue of Saruman the way you did. There had to be signs, and Galadriel at least was not overly fond of Saruman. Nor was Cirdan, so it seems natural that Elrond might pick up on part of that. But as a fellow wizard, Maia, whatever, Gandalf might not be so quick to pass judgement. Even with the signs. And no one really has cause to suspect the worst. Yet. Anyway, fascinating conversation, and kudos to Gandalf for winning. Kudos to Elrond for graceful defeat, and kudos to Glorfindel for a perfectly timed appearance. JastaElf once described Glorfindel as an elf who was simply there and that his was a presence one did not question. One merely accepted that he would be in the right place at the right time and have the right words or the right actions, even if he didn't fully understand them himself. And I see a lot of that in your portrayal here. Fantastic characterization all around, brilliant job with a very tricky chapter, and I can't wait to see where you take this next! Gandalf's words about hunting Gollum and leading danger away from the Shire have me shivering. Here's hoping another update isn't too far away!

Thundera Tiger · 16 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Water

I swear that I knew you could write action sequences. There were enough of those during "In the Hands of the Enemy" and I knew that you had a singular talent for drawing out suspense, adventure, drama, twists, and all the other great things that go along with a good action scene. But even knowing all this, I was blown away again by your writing. The flood sequence over the Hoarwell was some of the tightest writing I have ever seen. It ebbed and flowed liked the waters, peaking at climax after climax until that tree came out of nowhere. It was a brilliant scene that held me motionless on the edge of my seat. Everyone was accounted for. All the actions were perfectly described. I had in my head a complete visual of everything that was happening, and it went by so quickly that I had to stop and catch my breath at the end. And here again, I have to praise your mood work. When Elrohir drags Halbarad ashore and Elladan gets him to breathe, there is a palpable feeling of relief. But it never once overshadows the fact that they are still running out of time and the dark urgency that drives them is still very present, even when Elrohir takes off to find the missing horses. The fact that they are waiting in no way mitigates the feeling that they are driven, and that is a testament to your work as an author. I also need to sing your praises for a fantastic characterization of both Elladan and Elrohir. They're alike yet not alike, and they remind me of the identical twins that I've known. Something sets them apart, but when they act, they act together. Or in harmony, one's actions complimenting the other's. There's a sense that things are being left unsaid but that both Elladan and Elrohir know what those things are and that they both understand them. And more praises are sung for the way you deal with the Bruinen and the more mystical side of Tolkien. Your touch becomes very, very light. All the elements from previous moods are still there, but there's now an element of something intangible. Something that can't be defined. And you keep it that way. You don't attempt to explain the unexplainable but rather leave it for the reader's imagination. And I think it's exactly how these things should be handled. Tolkien himself didn't explain too much, and that's part of what makes his world so magical. You uphold that tradition with a deft hand and ensure that the reader doesn't need an explanation. They accept that something is going on that defies their comprehension and they are content with that. And perhaps the most remarkable thing is that this perspective is told from Gandalf, who DOES understand some of what is happening but still manages to keep the reader out of the loop. Just as he does in his remarks to Halbarad and Dudo. And double kudos to you for your characterization of Glorfindel. He's a complicated character, and you've given him an almost poetic feel. I love his surprise upon discovering a hobbit in Rivendell (and the fact that he almost demanded an explanation) and I love the way he describes Elrond after Celebrian's departure. There was some beautiful imagery there. He has that mystical feel, and I'm discovering that all of Rivendell is filled with it. But there's also something very solid about him. It's an interesting study in contrasts, and it's nothing less than what I would expect from the renowned Balrog-slayer. The fact that Gandalf respects him enough to heed his commands says a lot, and I look forward to seeing his character develop. Next chapter!

Thundera Tiger · 16 September 2005 · Chapter 2: Race to the River

One of the most remarkable things about this story is its tone. In this chapter, it picks up almost precisely where it left off in the last chapter, and even more amazing is the fact that it does this while at the same time changing characters. Dudo is not as aware of the growing danger for Aragorn, but the actions of the other characters makes up for his ignorance. And he's not entirely naive. He can tell that something's up, even if he's not sure exactly what or how dangerous it is. And once again, the humor is still there, though as before, it's lost power. And it continues to lose power as the chapter progresses until it is a very dark, very demanding chapter. The jests don't have the same ring. The wry remarks lack substance. It's all spiralling downward, and the characters, the tone, and even the weather all combine to support it. It's a beautiful coming together of events, people, and places to push Gandalf and Halbarad into very extreme action. The decision to amputate was bold. Very bold. But it was a decision arrived at through extreme circumstances and increasingly desperate efforts. It felt right. Halbarad's inability to do it felt right. His objections felt right, and the fact that he moved past them in the end felt right. I was screaming at them to stop it, but at the same time, I couldn't offer them any alternatives. You managed to back the characters into a seemingly inescapeable situation, and all the tension and all the darkness you were building suddenly focused itself into one horrible moment. And then you jerked the rug out from under our feet. It was perfectly timed, and that's another thing I have to compliment you on: the timing of this piece. You've got a nearly perfect sense of timimg for the humor, the drama, the entrances, the exits, everything! It has made me not a little bit jealous. Which brings us back to Elladan's arrival. And I thought the Rohirrim liked to cut it close on the rescues. The arrow, the slight delay, and then the reveal of who the newcomer was had a brilliant flow and timing to them, and I loved Elladan's response of "near enough" when Tillfield proclaimed him an elf. Now there's an element of hope in the story, and the darkness isn't nearly as dark. But it's still there, and the sense of urgency that was always underlying the chapter has now been brought to the forefront by a means of acting on this urgency. I applaud you on maintaining mood while making both Elladan and Elrohir into the brothers, the friends, and the near-enough-elves that they are. On to the next chapter!

Thundera Tiger · 16 September 2005 · Chapter 1: Between a Rock and a Hard Place

*wanders in late as usual but VERY, VERY grateful that she found this story* Meckinock, I have missed you. Perhaps even worse, I've forgotten just how much I missed you before I started reading this story. Clearly I have been exposed to too much writing that is merely par. Excellent, much of it, but compared to yours, just par for the course. Thankfully, you have entered the writing scene yet again, which means I can now look forward to gems like this one. I say gem, but I mean Silmaril. Not in the sense of the doom-causing, panic-wielding, kin-slaying Silmaril, but in the sense of the gems that had managed to capture the beauty of the Two Trees and hold it. Because this is story is nothing short of brilliant. Let me count the ways... Your humor is back in force. It was the humor that first caught my attention on the previous story, but if possible, I think you've managed to improve on perfection this time around. The conversation between Halbarad and Tillfield is fantastic. Halbarad's inner monologue has a wonderfully wry tone to it, and it's offset perfectly by Tillfield's uncomfortableness and Halbarad's own mounting worry for Aragorn. The story of the farmer's wife and the goat was sheer brilliance, and I like the way Halbarad seemed to use this to get Aragorn's mind off his wound. I loved the insinuation that Aragorn sometimes couldn't find Rivendell, I love Gandalf's many raised brows, and I love Halbarad's sudden swell of pity for the underappreciated landscape. But most of all, I love this series of lines: “Aragorn,” he called, getting the attention of both riders and making a show of examining Star’s left front hoof. “My horse is coming up lame. His foot is bruised from a rock, I fear. What do you say we make camp? Up ahead a mile or so is the campsite by the stream. It will be shady there, and the horses can drink.” “But your horse isn’t –“Tillfield protested Halbarad silenced the hobbit with a glare. “Do you want to make camp or not?” “Yes.” “Then be still.” If that isn't brilliance, I don't know what is. Moving on, the humor in the first part is offset very nicely but the growing concern for Aragorn. And hear is some absolutely fantastic mood work on your part. You keep the humor running, and Halbarad's replies and thoughts are still tinged with that wry outlook I've come to love from him, but as the chapter progresses, the humor loses its strength. It's still there, certainly, but remarks become more weighty and meanings are given to things that didn't necessarily have meaning before. It's a gradual change that creeps up so softly it's hard to see it until it arrives. And once it does arrive, it's difficult to shake off. But the end of this chapter, the mood is dark and foreboding. Then of course there's your characterization, which remains a flawless as ever. I've come to the conclusion that you are THE Gandalf writer. I realize that this is primarily from Halbarad's perspective (and Halbarad is still brilliant), but every time Gandalf opens his mouth, his steals the spotlight. It's exactly the way he's portrayed in The Hobbit, only enhanced and magnified. I could go on and on about other things, but then I'd be here all day and I really do have to move forward. So I'll end this now and see if I can get out a review for the next chapter.

washow · 11 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Homecoming

I have been anxiously awaiting the continuation of this story for some time and have just now gotten around to sending a review. I love your writing and am anxious to hear the conversation between Elrond and Aragorn because as a MC fan it hurts to see them at odds. Your long delay has caused me to wonder if you are all right. After the tragedy in the American south it is hard to tell whether my favorite authors have disappeared due to the distractions of real life or were affected by that event. I hope you are well and will update soon.

viggomaniac · 7 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Homecoming

Meckinock, sure hope you are feeling better (I think one of your other reviewers mentioned you were ill). Real Life can be so stressful sometimes. Your writing is so good, I just had to mention it again! Ah, don't be modest. It's wonderful. As you may have guessed, I hope you post the next chapter soon. Each one continues to exceed my expectations.