Ugh! Arent they ever going to get out of there? So close and yet so far away! Im always sitting on the edge of my seat with this story, you should be proud of yourself it is so well written and has a pull to draw in the reader so well, more please Im begging!!!
Author's reply
Sorry to get back to you so late! RL turned out to be quite demanding.
Well, should they get out of there? I thought, it was like a themepark. Scary people running around, alleys, which lead nowhere, no light, beasts of all sorts, abyss and else. Isn't that considered a funny day? :)
Thanks for the kind words about my writing, and here you go with the next chapter.
- T.
grumpy
· 3 June 2006
· Chapter 28: A Valuable Tool
Daevan got the Hammer, not only that he used it, or misused it, and notched it, some dwarves are just never happy. Now there is just to get Strider up and moving, and that little thing like finding Gollum. To bad he does not glow in the dark. I have a plasic one that does.
Author's reply
If Dwarves are happy - all of them - take a red note in your diary. LOL! And not that Moria is crowded with people willing to help (where, BTW, is that poor UPS man? Did he find his way out already? Or might the group meet him on their way??), now there should be a glowing Gollum. Now, come on, Grumpy, that would make it all too easy, right? We don't want easy, we want some more struggle. So some more struggle there will be. :)
- T.
RS
· 31 May 2006
· Chapter 28: A Valuable Tool
I guess Lini was so much in awe of the hammer that he didn't mind that his beard was singed! Very funny! Two dwarves bickering. One irritated that Daevan "notched it" and "misused it" and the other one impressed with the way Daevan "wielded it with skill". Very comical!
"Well one might say that they could put it to good use and forge a new sword out of a broken one...." I too laughed with Strider on that comment! Daevan sure is getting bold with his words!
Now to find Gollum and get out of this dreaded place. They just have to pass that firey hole and find him, right? Real easy! I'm just glad that they were able to get the treasure!
Author's reply
Thanks for the kind words and quotes. What would a story be without some moments of comical relief... And from my POV Daevan didn't intend to make a joke; he's not that thoughtful or clever. The sentence just happened.
Yeah, just out to find Gollum now. Easy part, hum?
- T.
Linda Hoyland
· 26 May 2006
· Chapter 27: Men and Dwarves - Part Two -
I love Daervan's loyalty and care for Strider here. The dwarfs are very ungrateful !
Author's reply
They are Dwarves, after all, and their way is different... very different *g*
- T.
Linda Hoyland
· 26 May 2006
· Chapter 28: A Valuable Tool
I like Furin here, poor Daevan, he is having to learn a great deal very fast.
Author's reply
Never say that a simple fisherman cannot turn his life completely around if he has to! I'm glad you like him.
- T.
Elflingimp
· 26 May 2006
· Chapter 28: A Valuable Tool
That was really good Im glad the dwarves are happy(at least most of them)I hope they get the heck out of there soon before I have an angxiety attack(I know I spelled that wrong)
Author's reply
Never mind spelling, Elflingimp! I'm no native speaker myself, so, hey, you have to lenient with my mistakes, too.
Yeah, the Dwarves are grumbling, growling, but still happy. And I hope you won't have any attack of any kind until the next chapter comes around. :)
- T.
grumpy
· 25 May 2006
· Chapter 27: Men and Dwarves - Part Two -
So the dwarves are trying to recover the Hammer of Aule, a very good cause. I bet that they find the Daevan is a worthy fellow. A am glad that Strider woke up enough to tell Daevan, what he thought of him.
Bet Strider would like a visit from a Red Cross nurse, while they are out picking up hammers and bows.
Author's reply
Well, I know of many readers/writers, who would apply for a job with the Red Cross, even if it meant to venture Moria's deep caverns...
- T.
RS
· 22 May 2006
· Chapter 27: Men and Dwarves - Part Two -
I think I'm going to cry! That last conversation with Aragorn and Daeven got to me. I'm so glad Daevan received those words from Aragorn. It will give him more confidence for his task. Very touching!
I am so very afraid of what's going to happen next.
So the treasure is finally revealed! The Hammer! Those dwarves maybe loud and gruff but I am beginning to like them. Daevan sure is blunt about their actions towards Aragorn which leaves the Dwarves speechless (What can they say? Davaen is right, maybe it might have humbled the Dwarves a little). I love that whole interaction.
It's fascinating to see the changing and growing views that each character hold for each other as the story unfolds. It's quite a learning experience for the Dwarves and the young Daevan.
You think Aragorn will be better the next chapter?
Author's reply
Nono, please, no crying! But thanks for the praise. As always, to put the heavy load on Aragorn's shoulders is very tempting. *g*
Now looka here: you're being to like the Dwarves! Well, that's something! LOL
- T.
Larner
· 21 May 2006
· Chapter 27: Men and Dwarves - Part Two -
Aha! Yes, the true heirloom of the Dwarves, their own lord's tool of tools, given in memory of that day the will of Iluvatar allowed them life.
And love the moments between Daevan and the rest. Indeed an honorable young Man well worth the respect he's garnering.
Author's reply
Yes, the studies of Tolkien's works were good for something at last!
- T.
Elflingimp
· 21 May 2006
· Chapter 27: Men and Dwarves - Part Two -
I really enjoyed reading this chapter and finding out what the treasure was,The hammer of Aule,that was great! I see the dwarves are holding to their honor,I cant wait to read the next one I just hope Aragorn lasts!
Author's reply
Thanks, Elflingimp, for the kind words!
After reading the Silmarillion, the idea of the hammer just jumped to my mind...
- T.
Laerien
· 21 May 2006
· Chapter 27: Men and Dwarves - Part Two -
Hi! Still here, still reading! :o)
Now this is quite an adventure for Daevan! When he left the village with Aragorn, I knew that this story will be at least as much his as Aragorn's. And I wasn't wrong. I usually like OCs, but I love Daevan. He is not perfect at all, but he does his best. And though he doesn't understand many things properly, he understands the meaning of friendship, and what it means to help a friend in need. This simple thing gives him the strength, and makes me feel for him all the more, as I want to be like this. Fortunately, I haven't yet had an occasion to 'prove my quality'. :o/
But Daevan did, and I loved that little conversation with Aragorn. That finally someone truly told him what a great thing he did. (Btw, Aragorn's last line touched me deeply) If only he knew he saved the future of Middle -Earth... Now, I do wonder whether he will ever learn the true identity of his mentor. After all, he proved himself to be a true friend and ally, and I have a suspicion that he will accomplish even more! :o) I think by the end of this, he will earn the right to know the truth.
I do hope Aragorn will recover enough to get out of Moria by the time Daevan is back. I wonder how the Dwarves will fulfill their part. After all, Moria is huge.
About the Hammer of Aule... Umm. Is it possible that such a thing still exists? And in Moria? Sorry, I don't know much about the history of dwaves...
Author's reply
Hi Laerien, glad to have you around again!
My tendency to give the OCs equally important roles as the CCs (OK, restricted to Aragon in this story, LOL) shines through, and I am deeply moved to learn that you like him so much.
Well, there are very old things still existing in Moria, so one or two treasures could surely be left to find...
- T.
viggomaniac
· 20 May 2006
· Chapter 26: Men and Dwarves - Part One -
Hello again! A seriously great chapter was this. No wait, that's 'Star Wars' speak. Sorry. Anyways, this really was great. I totally loved Daevan in his new 'take charge' persona. Having to lug around poor Strider would have left anyone winded! Whew! Your Daevan had some great lines. You must have been in a rare mood when you wrote this. I loved, particularly, "You mean I should have left you to whatever torment and run away like a frightened child?" That was great. And his comments to the dwarves had me chuckling. "Even if you were King under this Mountain," he huffed, "you are still a dwarf..." Excellent. Also liked the observation that 'the Dwarves looked like a bunch of rogues, who were estimating how easily they could betray him.' So I'm guessing Strider never makes it to 'Smilin' Sam Saruman's Torture Shack', eh? Ah well. *Sigh*. C'mon! Don't look at me like that! Oh, and Strider assures Daevan that "You will be told of in stories and songs..." That was wonderful. As always, so many great things going on in your story. Sorry I didn't get around to reviewing sooner. BTW, I was checking my TIVO listings last night and a two hours episode of 'Sharpe' [the original series] is going to be aired here in two days! Wow! I'm dying to see it. But I'm also looking forward to the next chapter in your terrific saga. Write on!
Author's reply
Hi Viggomaniac,
guess it was about time that the fisherman discovered he could do more than just following Strider. Well, he has to, in a way. And thank you very much for quoting what you liked best. That always makes my day.
No, Strider was spared Saruman's Torture Rack. BTW, is that some hint I should understand? *author smiles very innocently*
Sharpe's always a great way to spend the evening. Enjoy!
And the next chapter is there at your service...
- T.
Linda Hoyland
· 17 May 2006
· Chapter 26: Men and Dwarves - Part One -
Daervan is a treasure,I love his concern for Aragorn.Poor Aragorn having to concince the suspicious dwarfs when he is badly hurt.A very vivid chapter.
Author's reply
Thanks a bunch. Yes, Mouse had a fine idea when we created Daevan to become Strider's ally.
- T.
grumpy
· 13 May 2006
· Chapter 26: Men and Dwarves - Part One -
Hurrah, for the dwarves, I knew that they would come through. Also very good Daevan, not only carried Strider all that way, but picked locks too. Daevan has come a long way. I liked that part that Strider was prepared to fight Daevan, thinking he was a orc. At least Strider gets to have a nap now. He could use the St. Bernard as a pillow, but the Ups man is already doing so.
Author's reply
So at least the dog is useful for someone! LOL! Well, I suppose that Strider will make it without the St. Bernard by now, don't you think?
- T.
Elflingimp
· 12 May 2006
· Chapter 26: Men and Dwarves - Part One -
Boy those dwarfs sure have an attitude problem(among other things)couldnt they just help? but no they want the treasure I wonder if they will live to enjoy it?
Author's reply
That's the question... among some others. But the Dwarves, at least, didn't abandon their ally.
- T.
RS
· 12 May 2006
· Chapter 26: Men and Dwarves - Part One -
Hi Timmy222!
What an incredible job! I found myself watching a movie! Your description of Daeven with Strider on his back and Lini running through this dark place was vivid and heart-stomping. I love the quick witted remarks from Daeven, "I knew you'd be a burden"; "how can someone on legs so short be so fast?". The dialogue between Davin and Lini was reminiscent of Legolas and Gimli. A funny moment during the chase! I just about died laughing picturing Lini hacking away with his axe to remove Strider's chains.."I can splinter one ring of that chain in the middle...unless he moves". Hilarious!
Bravo for Daeven! He has become the man in charge! Poor dwarves. Now they have two men to contend to. This was a thrilling chapter! It had excitement and a comic relief. And Strider, as usual, was a man of little words but his characteration was on the mark! Beautiful!
Sorry I have not been reviewing lately...But I have been reading and enjoying!
RS
Author's reply
Oh, hum, well... *author blushes* Thanks, RS, that was truly a heart-warming review. 'Watching a movie', I suppose, is the best compliment and author can receive for her work. The line 'I knew you'd be a burden' jumped at me one night when I thought that Daevan would undergo quite a change on the journey and that finally he would find himself in charge of the situation... aside the Dwarves, of course.
- T.
Larner
· 11 May 2006
· Chapter 26: Men and Dwarves - Part One -
Aha--quality indeed for all five, Dwarves and Man. Saved, and Daevan was the one who took Narsil's shards and the pack. Excellent, and a very fine young Man he's proving to be.
And good luck with the MEFAs.
Author's reply
Thanks! I cannot tell you how grateful I am, Larner. That really made my day.
- T.
Larner
· 9 May 2006
· Chapter 25: A New Menace - Part Two -
Aha--caught up once more at last!
The Dwarves have been very canny, and I love the cave-in they caused. Now, for Daevan to get Aragorn out of there.
Author's reply
Thanks, Larner, for the review and, as I just learned, your e-mail to the MEFA. That was very kind of you.
- T.
Larner
· 9 May 2006
· Chapter 24: A New Menace - Part One -
The frustration of feeling inadequate. So close and yet so far. Now, Dwarves, it's time for you to show YOUR quality.
Your writing skill is keeping me caught up in the story. Sorry it's taken so long to get back to it, but have been fighting computer woes.
Author's reply
So glad to hear from you again and I cross my fingers that your computer cooperates the better with you now. *g*
- T.
Larner
· 9 May 2006
· Chapter 23: Captured - Part Two -
Ah, they underestimate Aragorn. I hope that Daevan and the Dwarves help free him soon.
grumpy
· 7 May 2006
· Chapter 25: A New Menace - Part Two -
Oh good, total panic among the orcs and goblins, hope whatever is after them gets them. Also hope that it is Davaen that is going to rescue Strider. Poor Strider was almost in need of a seeing eye dog. St. Bernard has sent for his friend Lassie, because Lassie always saved the day.
Author's reply
Grumpy, that sounds it's going to be quite crowded down there in the caves of Moria. If it gets any fuller, the Orcs need to put signs on the walls to guide the tourists through them. LOL! Love your comments, but I think, I already told you.
- T.
Linda Hoyland
· 4 May 2006
· Chapter 25: A New Menace - Part Two -
Good for Daervan!He has learned a good deal in his time with Strider.
Author's reply
Yes, the long journey was worth it and the young fisherman turned into quite a fighter... if he must.
- T.
Elflingimp
· 4 May 2006
· Chapter 25: A New Menace - Part Two -
I knew there had to be light at the end of the tunnel sooner or later,maybe Aragorn has a chance,Im glad hes still got his eyes however,that was creepy,anyway great chapter, will be waiting for more,this is a great story!
Author's reply
Couldn't let anything happen to Aragorn, could I? *g* And creepy it should be. Thanks for the praise.
- T.
viggomaniac
· 28 April 2006
· Chapter 24: A New Menace - Part One -
Poor, poor Aragorn. Terrific portrayal of misery and strength of will in this chapter, both from Aragorn's and Daevan's point of view. Stunning work. I wish I had something more coherent to say but it's late and I can't think of anything particularly witty, clever, or even interesting to say tonight. Ah, but poor Aragorn (have I said that?) being forced to drink that awful orc draught (must be like some cough syrups I've had - blehh!) and endure even more torment. Hey, we've been talking about you a little bit over on the Yahoo group (all complimentary of course). All of us Aragorn fanatics are united in our our praise of your stories. Take care and looking forward to the update.
Author's reply
*cough syrup*... LOL!!! OK, so Aragorn's safe from catching a cold down there. Well, it's a start.
Thanks for the ongoing discussion about my stories. Really nice to know that.
- T.
Linda Hoyland
· 24 April 2006
· Chapter 24: A New Menace - Part One -
I feel so sorry for poor Aragorn here.This chapter is hard to read as you depict his suffering so vividly.It must be hard for Dearvan too to be so helpless.
Author's reply
Yes, Daevan did not only make a hard choice, but now has to show real strength. Living up to the demands, so to say.
- T.