Reviews (128)

lochalshe · 4 June 2006 · Chapter 21: The Dene-Holes

Oh, I had hoped for this possible turn in the story! Thank you for letting us have this moment. And thank you for all of this story, though I've been terrible neglectful in reviewing. It is a treat and always brings a surge of delight when I see a new chapter posted. Be assured I will be watching eagerly for the next installment when Andunie and Legolas reach solid ground once more. Thank you, Lochalshe

Lyn · 25 May 2006 · Chapter 20: Tamin Rúmilion

foregather? rather an awkward phrasing difficult to understand. This is one of the best stories I've read, but the forehead kissing was a bit too much...it's an awkward gesture between strangers and rather physically too close for casual use. Also, to my knowledge, it was never a part of Tolkien's writings. Casual greetings would most likely include arm clasps, hand to shoulder or even just bowing, as occurs in most cultures. Kissing is usually reserved for relatives. Oh, well.

Bodkin · 25 May 2006 · Chapter 20: Tamin Rúmilion

I hoped they would find Legolas among the elves - but sadly not. It would be too simple. But a good thing that Fastred had been partially reared by elves - this alliance of elves and men could be very useful. Although they have rapidly learned not to look on Andunie as a pussycat. Brytta is growing and coming over as a much wiser person for a good bit of suffering. I think they might grow to like him before the end. The thought of leaving Andunie to look after her pet mortals is rather amusing.

Larner · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 10: The Heir's Decision

I so love this image of Legolas feeling free and riding merrily, letting Fastred know that there are distinct down sides to being a lord and an administrator. And I loved his fit of temper--well done.

Dreamflower · 8 May 2006 · Chapter 19: The Ghosts of Fangorn

My oh my! This is a great chapter, full of meat to chew on. The reactions of the various members of the oddly assorted company, to their own grief and to one another, are finely drawn and realistic. Fastred is such a perceptive and intelligent child, and his sensitive reactions to the feelings of others--even those who have never given him any reason to be sensitive to them--is, I think a reflection of his father Faramir, who was a keen judge of character, and whose sensitivity in the matter of the Ringbearer saved the Quest from disaster. Yet I love Bandy's firm defense of the lad, and the list of those attributes he has inherited from Eowyn as well. Beautifully done! And Brytta is becoming a complex and well-rounded character as well--and I love Fastred's observation that it was easier to make a friend of him than to stay angry--so true, and yet not something easily believed by most folk. Your emphasis on the pity he feels for Brytta also reflects one of JRRT's themes in the original works--the absolute necessity for pity, for charity towards those whose faults seem not to deserve it. Poor Gimli. I just want to cuddle him and tell him that of *course* Legolas isn't dead! And then the twist at the end! I'd had a number of theories about the ghosts--from Huorns to some of the rebels dressed up in white sheets to stir up trouble. But a young *Elf*?!?!?! *whoosh*totally not expected!*

Bodkin · 7 May 2006 · Chapter 19: The Ghosts of Fangorn

Brytta is a bit on the narcissistic side. Probably why he had so much trouble accepting being beaten by an elf in the first place. However, it was kind of Andunie to acknowledge that the humans were slightly less unsavoury when washed. They are beginning to settle down as a group - though Gimli is rather too distraught to be his usual self. And an elf boy - interesting. I'm rather hoping we have some Legolas-rescuers here, since I'm fairly sure that Lord Lassah is not an eight-day old corpse. Looking forward to finding out!

Lyn · 6 May 2006 · Chapter 19: The Ghosts of Fangorn

Beyond Excellent! Characterizations perfect, descriptive environment enriched with extensive vocabulary; subtle changes very much appreciated! My only "complaint" is with red haired elves with loose hair (the wind tends to blow loose hair into the eyes which is painful and obscures vision), and the possible difficulty of hiding red (hair) and white (piebald)from the enemy's vision. I was pleasantly surprised by the Fangorn visitor!

Alison H · 6 May 2006 · Chapter 19: The Ghosts of Fangorn

Wow, the ending of the chapter gave me goosebumps! What a moment for Fastred to meet the ghostly elf-boy.Very strange but incredibly thrilling.I wonder how the others will react? Fastred might want to keep the elf-boy secret. I thougth that Fastred was sweet on Andunie and his reaction when Brytta spoke to her quietly left me in no doubt.It's very touching really, because Andunie is often very brusque with him, although she did say he was very brave. The search for Legolas' 'body' continues and I just wonder what they will find when they reach the spot where he was felled? All the talk of his remains was kind of gruesome and no wonder Gimli is morose and in mourning.We shall have to see what they will find. Excellent chapter, Le Rouret.I can't wait for more.Update soon! Ali.

Lyn · 27 April 2006 · Chapter 18: Strange Company

Forgot to mention I laughed out loud when I read this: "Yes, Fastred," snapped the Hobbit. "Can't you smell him? He's worn the same tunic three days running and he smells right awful." Not having to change one's clothes for days WOULD be considered a good thing by a boy! Think of all the soap he saved.

Lyn · 26 April 2006 · Chapter 18: Strange Company

This is a beautifully written, well researched and heartfelt story which I am very pleased to be able to read! About the "mine" used in front of a vowel (mine uncle)---this was news to me. I haven't studied Shakespeare or Elizabethan speech, but I honestly believe that if one wrote in full Elzabethan speech, no one today would understand it fully or would misinterpret the words. Meaning is critical to a story; that is, the reader needs to be able to understand fully what is going on in order to fully appreciate the nuances. Much ado about nothing perhaps. Personally, I would drop the "mine" as I suspect no one will notice, but I admire your extensive research. The site you suggested had a list of 21 words which were rarely or completely out of use now, but I found only 4 whose usage were strange to me, such as "wherefore" for"why". Hmmmm....guess I'm out of date! The previous chapter, I assumed that once the identity of the black horse was known, an army would have charged out of Edoras whether Legolas was alive or not, but then I realized this story is being told from Fastred's point of view so he would have to become involved somehow. I was surprised that Andunie would allow Fastred to come along, endangering the only heir (did Eowyn have more sons?). Still, it is good to imagine Gimli on a horse again, and eventually an army will be headed in their direction! Also,I imagine they expect to see a body in a deserted field. Should they not have brought an extra horse to carry the body?

Bodkin · 26 April 2006 · Chapter 18: Strange Company

'Originally, my and thy were used before nouns beginning with consonant sounds, as in my book, while mine and thine were used before nouns beginning with vowel sounds, as in mine eyesas a and an still are. This distinction persisted into the 18th century.' http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=mine I rather like the sound of it! And I am not surprised that the rebels are off to seek Legolas's arrow-pierced body. I hope they find him quickly, since my fingers are crossed that he's tougher than they thought. And that finding him less than dead might earn them forgiveness. Fastred's doing well, isn't he!

Elenora · 26 April 2006 · Chapter 18: Strange Company

This was a marvelous chapter, and I rarely say that of anything that doesn't contain Legolas actively in it! This story just keeps getting better and better, and I am thoroughly enjoying it. And you surprised me - I figured Legolas was going to get himself into trouble, but little did I suspect how much! Oh Lirlindil!! That utterly shocked me. And while I'm sure Legolas will be found alive, the weight of grief and despair, and severely wounded as you are so far indicated that he is, is enough to satisfy even the most jaded of us Legolas/angst lovers! I'm on pins and needles waiting to see how this will turn out. I loved that scene at the end where Fastred and Andunië keep running into others planning to sneak out to find Legolas's "body." I could not imagine Gimli and Bandobras NOT doing that, and Brytta showing up as well seemed quite fitting. Thanks for the great read, and I'm really looking forward to the next chapter!

Alison H · 26 April 2006 · Chapter 18: Strange Company

First of all, let me tell you that I just *love* the way you write.Your use of "mine" actually adds to the charm of the story and it *does* feel as if everything was taken from a lost medieval novel.I love the way you incorporate olde English into every sentance.Frankly, I don't know how you do it :D Poor Fatred, so desolate over his 'Lassah's' death.His thoughts were perfectly written and my heart went out to him.I was expecting Eomer to be the one to find him but was pleasantly surprised when it was Andunie who offered him comfort.I may be wrong, but does Fastred carry a torch for Andunie and not yet recognise it? He is quick to defend her honour, which is always touching to read. Oh yes, Andunie knows her brother and knows how angry he will be when he finds his horse missing.I can't wait to read about his reaction! So, what of Legolas? What has happened and where is he? I can't wait to find out. Update soon. Ali.

wantanelf · 21 April 2006 · Chapter 17: The Midnight Destrier

Another amazing chapter!! I don't know if I can stand the suspense. What has happened to The Green Knight? Poor Piukka. I can only imagine why he literally ran himself to death and the reason can't be good. Please don't make us wait too long. You do such an amazing job of weaving your tales and characters together. Your stories are always a pleasure to read. Thanks again.

Lyn · 20 April 2006 · Chapter 17: The Midnight Destrier

Your ability to write a rousing good story is unequaled! I'm enjoying this immensely. I am puzzled by all the "mine uncle" or "mine anything" because "mine" is "the absolute form of "my", used without a following noun" (per my dictionary. I have not studied Middle or Old English, so I'm unsure of previous usage.

Bodkin · 20 April 2006 · Chapter 17: The Midnight Destrier

Oh my. This is not good. This is not good at all. I should have suspected that a tale of Fastred beginning to make friends and behave in a manner befitting his rank was just too good to be true and would lead to a nasty sting in the tail. Poor Piukka. Poor Bandy. And Meivel is going to be going wild.

Lyn · 1 April 2006 · Chapter 15: Éomer King

Such a wonderful story! Excellent in all respects! Just a couple of comments: ...to abduct mine heir - should be "my heir". "Mine" is the absolute form of "my" and never should be followed by a noun. Feldspar! One of my favorite minerals. The sodium silicate form can sometimes be found in a pale translucent blue form, suitable for jewelry. (Albite). In this form, it is often called "moonstone". Feldspar is the pink or white mineral in granite. Absolutely adore your portrayal of Legolas.

Larner · 31 March 2006 · Chapter 9: Théalof of Rohan

Yes, this Theolaf is a nasty git, isn't he? And I enjoyed how all conspired to see him gone before he managed to gain any of his goals. The courtly language was worth a few laughs, I must say.

Dreamflower · 31 March 2006 · Chapter 15: Éomer King

Oh my! The intrigue is really ramping up! Ghosts?!?!?!? So--will we stay in Meduseld with Fastred, Meival, Gimli and Bandy? Or shall we race across Rohan with Legolas and his company? I don't know which to choose! And, by the way--I adored Bandy's little lecture on geldings. That was hilarious!

Lamiel · 2 March 2006 · Chapter 14: An Unexpected Friend

Ah, I thought that girl would have a larger part to play. Now I imagine that she'll go off to Osgiliath, and she and Fastred will meet again when they're both grown up, and romance will ensue. Unlikely, perhaps, given their difference in rank. But at least she is a friend, and Fastred needed that. Reading this chapter, I thought again that this is a tale that Professor Tolkien would probably enjoy. The presentation scene was like something out of Beowulf, and beautifully written with great attention to detail as well. And Legolas! Oh . . . my Legolas loathes his dress robes with a passion, but you make them seem irresistable. Beautifully done. One question about word choice: Eomer calls the people to give Fastred the "honor and vilification" that is his due. I'm not sure that 'vilification' is the word you want there -- Merriam-Webster defines it as 'the making of false statements that damage another's reputation.' You might be referring to an older meaning of the word which is not commonly known, but I'd suggest using something else. Great job, as always. I cannot wait to see Legolas dance that Dwarven dance! Oh, that will be good.

Lyn · 2 March 2006 · Chapter 14: An Unexpected Friend

Excellent! A most intriguing story. I really should read The Green Knight in its entirety...it's difficult to find quality fanfics and I appreciate your writing skill. Just a couple of suggestions: 1. It is probably a good idea to mention the name of EOWYN more than Faramir as she is the reason Fastred is related to Eomer. (Relatives might be offended at this omission.) 2. I presume you meant to honor Fastred in the ceremony. I would suggest replacing "vilification" with "glorification" because vilification means to degrade, use slanderous or abusive language against. Glorification can be used to mean celebration, to honor, to exalt. (I notice other fanfic writers seem to confuse "infamous" with "famous" using infamous to mean something good, when it refers to something deserving a bad reputation, notorious, dishonorable, scandalous, and punishable by law.) A good fanfic writer should keep one hand on a dictionary, one hand on a thesaurus, and one hand on the keyboard. ^_^;

Rivergirl · 2 March 2006 · Chapter 14: An Unexpected Friend

I really love this story. This chapter was as good as always. Great job! *applause* One thing, though. I though "vilification" was a bad thing, meaning to slander or defame, but you've used it several times as a positive thing. I'm curious, is this some old meaning of the word? Anyway, wonderful story and I'm looking forward to seeing how the plot plays out.

Lamiel · 22 February 2006 · Chapter 13: Edoras

It's good to have Gimli back again. I shall enjoy his reaction when he learns of Thealof's treachery. As always your attention to detail and description bring the scenes alive in this story. I particularly liked Fastred's looking at his tooth collection arranged on the shelf in his new room. That scene conveyed a great deal both about his character and the strange place that he finds himself in. And Lothiriel is ill -- though not pregnant, it seems. That had been my first thought, but her words to Fastred seem to deny it. I was grinning as Legolas put Eomer in his place, "I have yet to run across such a situation in which the woman got into this condition without her husband's willing, if not fervent, contribution." Excellent. Now I wonder who this girl is that Fastred encountered at the end of the chapter. Is she truly a serving maid? Somehow I doubt it. Well, no doubt we shall learn more in chapters to come. This is enjoyable as always. I'm looking forward to more.

Dreamflower · 21 February 2006 · Chapter 13: Edoras

Ah, so *that's* to be the way of it, eh? Yes, indeed I see that this will not be AU after all, you naughty thing you! Now, I have to say, I am liking young Fastred more and more--he's a very sensitive, yet sensible, child. His concern for his Aunt Lothiriel is very sweet, and I am so touched by his sorrow for her. Of course, when he learns of the reason for her indispositon, it will probably cause him a good deal of confusion--I am sure worry and fear for her will be mingled with the hope that he might be relieved of the burden of heirship after all. And I am eager to see how Eomer is going to react to the news of his men's treachery--especially the attempt to abduct Fastred.

Geeco · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 13: Edoras

Lovely story! Intereasting OCs, I've been enjoying this fic greatly ^_^! One big quibble though... You have Gimli standing only as high as Eomer's belt, Gimli is a Dwarf and Dwarves are not the size of Hobbits. I take it your taking your height scale from the Movies? Un like PJ's portrayal in the films, it's a Tolkien fact that Dwarves are between 4 and 5 1/2 feet tall, taller then Hobbits, shorter then Men. Gimli would probably stand some where between shoulder or chest height to a Man. Otherwise, great fic!