Reviews (1,161)

Neilia · 19 November 2007 · Chapter 137: Recognition

Wahooo! What an exciting chapter. Outdid yourself this time. Can't hardly wait for the next one. *hugs*

eiluj · 18 November 2007 · Chapter 137: Recognition

Oh, I’m so glad I decided to desert the (*appallingly* thorough) NC tree recommendations to check at SoA. [Suffice it to say that 1) my lack of interest in the minutiae of trees (despite needing to plant a few) is further proof I’m not an elf; 2) I never have this problem with seed catalogs with two hundred varieties of *tomato* ... so as always, I have more in common with hobbits.] Ha! Beleg! I figured that calling himself Turindil, it was obvious who he was -- but you can be tricky. But given that he was well on the way to winning the archery contest, how could he *not* be Beleg? I’d completely forgotten Beleg was one of Finrod and Glorfindel’s buddies in Mandos. [It did seem suspicious that neither Finrod nor Glorfindel was ever around to see Turindil, but as I’d forgotten Beleg had been mentioned in the Mandos chapters, I was thinking Turindil was someone they knew from Middle-earth.] Now we just have to find out why Olwë thinks he looks familiar. I trust Turindil no longer feels lonely, since once the Maiar get out of the way, he’ll be mobbed by half the spectators.... *looks around unsuccessfully for Bad Guys* Hm. No Bad Guys taking the opportunity of the Distraction caused by Turindil’s recognition to wreak mayhem. Guess I’ll have to push back my scenario with all the Bad Guys until the next day. The final archery round was interesting, in that distance wasn’t a factor at all, only accuracy. It makes sense that the ranga is longer than the yard, since elves are taller than Men (as you are probably aware, the English yard was traditionally supposed to be half the height of a man). No, the E of A says the ranga is a *Númenórean* measurement (doubtless they got it from the elves). Of course, the Dúnedain were also taller than other Men. I’ve never seen an “official” figure for Dúnedain height before, though I remember reading somewhere (probably a fan’s estimate) that Elendil may have been eight feet tall (interesting since that’s twice the height of a tall *half*ling). Anyway, the 38-inch ranga seems a bit short to be the elvish (or Númenórean) version of our yard.

Nariel · 18 November 2007 · Chapter 137: Recognition

I quickly realized by the chapter's title we would discover who the archer really is and I actually didn't know until Finrod was shouting out Beleg. I should have known that Turindil meant Turin's friend, but I went deaper by trying to remember what Turin meant. I'm glad that Beleg is alive again. I loved this chapter and can't wait for next update!!!! So is the next chapter the match between Finrod and Glorfindel????

Nieriel Raina · 18 November 2007 · Chapter 137: Recognition

I was looking at the possible Sindarin meaning of the name rather than Quenya. *palmforehead* Never even considered one of their playmates from Mandos! *grin* So this was a lovely surprise. I really enjoyed this chapter, especially the archery competition itself! (gee, I wonder why? *grin*) It has been interesting seeing the different challenges you come up with. Loved Ingwion's attempts at saying 'orc spit'. LOL! --GLORFY!--- no comment... *wink* Very interesting that Beleg knew who Sador was. I look forward to seeing how he fits into the story. Great chapter! I appreciate you updating on my birthday too. A great way to end the day! And it is hard to top the Cheesecake Factory, let me tell you! *grin* NiRi

Selene Aduial · 18 November 2007 · Chapter 137: Recognition

Never left a review of your story so far *shame on me* I absolutely love it. Right now all I can think of is: Damn! Why did I never place a bet on who Turindil was... I would have won some money ;) It's great to see Beleg returned. Eat your heart out Robin Hood *grin*

eiluj · 16 November 2007 · Chapter 136: The Tournament Resumes

Rained out of their tree! *snicker* Vorondil’s hair still yellow ... it seems so long ago that he was splashed by the dye, but I spose it’s been barely a week. (And what a week for him, poor kid.) "No, Vorondil, you’re not a mistake. Eru would never have permitted your conception if you were. What your parents did was a mistake, but that’s not the same thing. You are alive and if so it’s for a good reason” -- Very well said, and applicable to more than simply this story. Well, so much for the Alqualondë theory.... It’ll be interesting to see what you have in mind. Manwë and Varda are expecting something in particular for the archery finale. Hm. Well, whatever it is, I’m sure the newly-Reborn Turindil will find it overwhelming. And I wonder if whatever-it-is will happen the way Manwë and Varda expect? (Not much else has, at this tournament -- other than Glorfindel whining, of course.) I think I’ve figured out what Valancar and Ingwë were talking about a few chapters back. Would it perhaps relate to some Bad Guys we know about?

Nieriel Raina · 15 November 2007 · Chapter 136: The Tournament Resumes

Poor Vorondil. I am glad Finrod loves him so much. The child really needs some love and healing. My heart just breaks for him. Love this continued play on Glorfindel whining. It is actually the elfling's favorite part and always garners a round of giggles. *grin* "But I never whine, so I’m always lovable," - See, he is so adorable! And you again drop lots of hints about Ingwion, and then you'll make us wait to find out the whole story! *pouts* --Eönwë saved them the trouble of trying to come up with a suitable reply when he gave them a brilliant smile. "Shall we play?" he asked...-- Every time he makes an appearance, I like Eonwe more. *grin* --"I sincerely hope not, Uncle. If that’s Glorfindel when he’s only playing," he said, pointing at the ellon in question, "I don’t think Aman would survive him fighting for real." -- And you just keep building the anticipation to see it too!k --"I reminded him that if even I could stop acting like a newly created ayanuz hopping from one star to the next in search of a good place to hide, there was hope even for someone like Glorfindel." -- LOL! I love how you have woven Wars in with this story. Perfect! And I loved Manwe's response too. *grin* Am very interested in finding out why Namo will be absent. Will we see why? --The Eldar noticed a knowing smile pass between the Elder King and the Elentári that they could not interpret. -- And I am very interested in seeing the archery competition. Should be interesting! Great chapter! Thanks! NiRi

Rhyselle · 14 November 2007 · Chapter 134: Justice Is Not Healing

I just went cold when it came out that Calalindale actually hates her own son. If Vorondil had not been named after his uncle, would she have moderated her despite, at least in regards to Vorondil? We'll never know, and I think it is awful that she admits it right in front of him. That "Nothing to do with me" line has so many possible meanings. First, the literal meaning of it in context with the preceding sentence--that Vorondil's character was not affected by anything she did. Then another meaning it can have: That she wants nothing to do with him. Poor elfling. But I can think of fewer places I'd like to be for comfort besides Lord Namo's arms! The description of the audience's changing attitude and perceptions in regards to Glorfindel was very well done. It shows how very quickly he is maturing in only a few months. I like the ongoing play on the "I never whine" thing. I wonder if the first thing said to him upon his return from Middle-earth is "Are you still whining?" LOL! The summoning of Eonwe and the explanation of the Book of Oaths was good. (Lovely tie-in to Wars of the Valar with the tapestry!) I would like to have a memory even a tenth as good as his! The content of the oaths were sobering. And I felt so bad for Vorondil hearing that his existence was because of oaths broken. Beyond bleak indeed! His calling himself an abomination was a bit extreme, but I can fully understand where he's coming from. Even a child who was not so prone to seeing things as far worse than they really are would feel traumatized and worthless after hearing all of this! I liked the bit of humor about Vorondil being a pain in the neck sometimes but nothing worse... it was a needed bit of tension release to have that bit of a grin and giggle before going into Calalindale's oath. I just want to grab that elleth and shake some sense into her! Her oath was contingent on Vorondil's safe return? It certainly didn't read that way to me either... I am assuming that the brief hesitation before Namo explains about Vorondil's last thoughts as he died was our dear Lord of Mandos obtaining permission to share what is a very private and personal thing that normally would only be known to him and the Reborn him/herself as his/her memory returned. The history/civics lesson on Namna Finwe Miriello was deftly put in, and we finished up the testimonial evidence portion of the trial with a LOT to think about. I thought that the verdict was properly rendered, and that Vorondil's reaction to hearing what his punishment would be was spot on. Will Voondil get to go clamming again? Perhaps with his father this time? :) I really liked Ingwion's choice to go back to Nienna's home--He's still got a way to go on his own healing, obviously, but he's grown enough to recognize it, where he couldn't before. I hope that Vaire won't get too frustrated by Calalindale's attitude--and that the elleth is able to come to an awareness that she erred mightily in breaking her sworn oath--and even though I get upset when I read about her, I do hope that she can find healing as well. Excellent chapter... deserving of a much less disjointed review than this one, but I'm fighting off sleep in order to finish it after a long and busy day of training and team-building exercises. I am looking forward to reviewing the newest chapters... and seeing if my ideas on how the tournament finishes out comes through. Well done!

Viresse · 14 November 2007 · Chapter 136: The Tournament Resumes

I’m not sure why or how I missed starting this story until a couple of weeks ago as I have loved the elves since first reading The Hobbit ever so many years ago. (My favorite character from The Hobbit is Elrond!) I finally opened the first chapter and was immediately hooked. And giddy with the joy of knowing I had over a hundred chapters waiting for me. I still love Elrond’s character but now I’ve added Glorfindel, Finrod and too many others to enumerate. The canon characters were too often just names to me; you’ve brought them to life. And now I have a crush on Námo of all people! I’ve printed the story out and take a number of chapters with me when I go to the gym. Just the thing to read while on the bike or treadmill! I must be on the third or fourth reading of some of the chapters. "Now we have the final archery round to look forward to." … “The Eldar noticed a knowing smile pass between the Elder King and the Elentári that they could not interpret.” Some more info on Turindil perhaps? Please?

Nariel · 14 November 2007 · Chapter 136: The Tournament Resumes

I loved this! Go Finrod! Go Finrod!! Boo-ya!!!! *dances the wierdest dance the reader can think of* Thanks SO much for letting Finrod win!!! I'm still glad that Ingwion made it this far though. How did he learn to fight then if he never left Aman? The losers (and the winners) are all very good sports' when they lose. I wonder what odd things the elflings thought when they saw Vorondil at the lunch... I feel so much pity for him. It's a really good thing that he met up with Finrod and fate led him to him. I wonder whose going to win the archery competition?? Is Turundil going to be in the next chapter? Thanks so much for writing this story in the first place!

ellie · 14 November 2007 · Chapter 136: The Tournament Resumes

oh look! a timely review from "she who is too busy to even breathe". Lucky you! Love the respect and obvious brotherly love between the 4 competitors. The respect shown by the royals and the valar was exquisite as well. I’m glad you show Ingwion as being of equal measure to the other 3 though he never saw combat in middle-earth. the vanyar often don't get credit in fan fiction for having the potential for being deadly warriors. Still can’t wait t o see what happened during the darkening that warranted foul weather fighting by a Vanya. Excellent tale, keep on telling it! I’ll bring the popcorn and the sodas if you provide the next chappie soon!

Kitty · 14 November 2007 · Chapter 136: The Tournament Resumes

It’s heartbreaking to see the repercussions to Vorondil of what happened lately. To feel he’s only a mistake is so sad! Things like that make me rather furious about Calalindalë. Considering how much my own opinion of Vorondil has changed, now I truly wonder if his ammë will manage the same. But somehow I doubt she will be so easily able to change and certainly don’t envy the ones who have to deal with her now. Ah, back to the Very Important Question if Glorfindel does whine or not :) Good to know it is as I supposed – that the elves are beginning to rethink their opinion about the Reborn and about these three in particular. Maybe it changes some minds to the better. And for the same reason – though not only for this – the respect shown to the fighters by the Kings, Maiar and Valar felt very fitting to me. (And I see Glorfindel has truly enriched the vocabulary of Aman with his ‚Once-born’ – now everyone knows the word *grin*) If that’s Glorfindel when he’s only playing," he said, pointing at the ellon in question, "I don’t think Aman would survive him fighting for real. LOL, that’s only too true! I was already thinking how another tournament would go in the Fourth Age, with warriors like the Elrondionath there, who were probably drilled by Glorfindel for three thousand years, or the Mirkwood warriors, who fought the Shadow for centuries. It would be quite the spectacle, I suppose. Maybe then Ingweë would get what he wants! Now I look forward to the archery finale and the other round of fighting.

MJ · 14 November 2007 · Chapter 136: The Tournament Resumes

Excellent, as ever, but Eonwe's mention of the work of his sister Maia made me wonder: Given how you are presenting your view of the work of Ainur and the formation of Arda in "Wars of the Valar," how do you manage to reconcile the tale of the making of the Sun and Moon with "reality"? Or the tale of Earendil, for that matter? Pure mythology? Unusual exceptions to "reality"? A convenient fiction for the sake of the Elves? Something else entirely? The possibilities seem endless.

Kitty · 10 November 2007 · Chapter 135: A Brief Respite

Just as there’s a chance that Laurendil will start wearing his wife’s clothes, but I wouldn’t hold my breath on that one *snicker* Nicely put! I agree completely with Aldundil. Oh, how sweet of Veryandur to give Vorondil his beloved stuffed toy! This elfling is really a little treasure. And I am sure Vorondil will feel very honoured and loved, knowing how much Veryandur loves his Narmollë. Glorfindel knows his otorno very well; even if Finrod objected at first to his escort, I think he may come to appreciate the thought behind it and the care it shows. And I was glad he managed to brighten Ingwion’s mood so much. I truly wonder if you will at least tell us if he's missing a brother or something like that here, or if we have to wait until you're able to get to the other story ...

eiluj · 10 November 2007 · Chapter 135: A Brief Respite

Veryandur is such a sweetie, giving Narmollë to Vorondil. "As you keep reminding us," Gilvagor replied, "you are not our king, so we’re not obligated to obey you" -- Hoist with his own petard! I loved the tree-sleeping. [Did you ever read perelleth’s “New Beginnings,” a complex and rather wacky story about events in Lindon just after the War of Wrath? Her Ingwion is at first terribly out of place in Middle-earth. It’s not Aman, and he doesn’t understand it -- or approve of it! Then finally he “gets it” -- and rather goes native. Poor Arafinwë panicks, as Ingwion seems suddenly so in love with Middle-earth there’s a real danger he’ll stay there permanently! And how could Arafinwë ever explain to Ingwë? But instead Ingwion returns west as Valinor’s first hippie, to his family’s total confusion.... On the other hand, *forget* the story recommendation, because we all want you to spend your time *writing,* not reading! (Oh, I am such a *librarian,* retired or not, making reading recommendations.)] Eight yéni, huh? Okay, so it wasn’t Alassiel’s father. The timeframe would seem to point in one particular direction, though I can still only guess *who.* Well, Finrod may have vanished, but at least he hasn’t been kidnapped!

Nieriel Raina · 10 November 2007 · Chapter 135: A Brief Respite

I'm lazy tonight...or rather, this morning. *grin* A nice interlude and lots of hints and nothing solid. It was sweet to see Veryandur give Vorondil his toy. *hugs doggie tightly* I know how hard that is! LOL! This was just a nice wrap up to the trial...now I'm VERY curious to know more about Ingwion and who he lost. A sibling maybe? And my guessing started more ideas popping in my head. sighs. Now I'll never sleep! And yes, it's ALL YOUR FAULT! You get blamed a lot, you know? LOL! Great chapter. Waiting patiently for more. Have a fantasical day! NiRi

eiluj · 8 November 2007 · Chapter 134: Justice Is Not Healing

Sador’s decision to stay with one braid is interesting. As the years pass, it will certainly confuse people -- though I don’t think he cares about that. Poor Calalindalë doesn’t exactly cover herself with glory. I wish I could feel there was some chance she can change, but I don’t hold out much hope for her. Pity Vairë’s poor Maiar! Ingwion.... Nienna’s is a good place for Vorondil and Aldundil. Aldundil had proved a disappointment to her both as a husband and as a man -- Did you really mean to say “man”? The family dynamics are very logical and convincing -- though o.c. horrific. I am reluctantly entertaining alternate ideas about Turindil’s identity, though not entirely happy with any of them [Elf A; miscellaneous kin to Elf B; Elf A who turns out to be kin to Elf B; Elf C -- unlikely but ironic!; Elf C who turns out to be kin to Elf B; Elf D -- even more unlikely]. I’ve decided my Unified Field Theory of BGs at the Tournament still works even with Turindil being a Good Guy: Mithlas will finally realize who Turindil is at the prize-giving (or some similar event at the end of the tourney), and that will provide the same Distraction necessary to set the whole thing in motion. *sigh* No need to say I’m wrong....

NiRi · 8 November 2007 · Chapter 134: Justice Is Not Healing

Am very annoyed at the site deleting my quotes. *pouts* Just so they make sense... *grumbles* --Aldundil tried to comfort him, but he refused it, turning abruptly away and falling into Námo’s arms.-- It is good to see this little one turning to a good source of comfort. --Every warrior there saluted the Maia, who acknowledged their salutes with a slight nod, his expression one of solemn joy. In his hands was the Book of Oaths. -- And once again Eonwe shows up! *cheers* -- The Book was, for him a prop, for the benefit of the Children, nothing more. -- Not to mention a great source of entertainment for himself. *grins and recalls the fun that maia has had recording some oaths* Does he record the oaths of the Valar too? Thanks for explaining the tapestry. And I look forward to getting back to the tournament though this was a nice diversion too... well not nice, but interesting? *smile* I'll wait patiently for the next epic. *taps foot* Are you done yet?? *runs* NiRi

NiRi · 7 November 2007 · Chapter 133: Vorondil On Trial

GRRRR!!!! I'm not sure what happened! Let's try it so the site doesn't think I'm using HTML code... *waves fist at site* -- Glorfindel had the indecent thought, quickly suppressed, that if Morgoth himself had suddenly appeared before them all wearing Lady Varda’s favorite gown, the onlookers would have exhibited less shock than they presently were showing at the Lord of Mandos’ announcement. Unfortunately the looks of amusement the two Maiar and the Vala in question shot him at that moment told him he hadn’t suppressed the image quickly enough and he found himself blushing. -- LMAO! Every time I read it too. *smile* --Sador gave him a brief smile and leaned over to speak to him. "You are very scary when you want to be, muindor nîn," he whispered in Sindarin. -- *snicker* agreed! Finrod can be scary! Thanks for the explanation! It's just the first time I've noticed him ever using this word for them. NiRi

Nieriel Raina · 7 November 2007 · Chapter 134: Justice Is Not Healing

<> It is good to see this little one turning to a good source of comfort. <> And once again Eonwe shows up! *cheers* <> Not to mention a great source of entertainment for himself. *grins and recalls the fun that maia has had recording some oaths* Does he record the oaths of the Valar too? <> And this time... I am confusedated. I read a review reply you left for someone else referencing that those who have read WotV would get this. Is this when Namo received the oaths of Vaire's maiar? I need to go read that whole thing again. But I guess I am failing to understand the significance since Eonwe wasn't one of those...or is it the significance of the room? Still pondering that paragraph. Anyway, I liked the conclusion of this, and yes, I can see it fitting for Vorondil to spend some time with Nienna. So...back to the tournament? *blink blink blink* NiRi

MJ · 7 November 2007 · Chapter 134: Justice Is Not Healing

Ah, what nice reading to come back to after weeks of remodeling (both house and dental). I'm happy to see the story progressing, but there is one little thing that's niggling at me more and more, the farther the story goes: the "intro," that little description of the story at its start. It makes it sound like this is really Glorfindel's story and that he will be the primary focus, but one can't really say that, anymore. It's really become a story about the Reborn, and all that the process encompasses. This is not a complaint, mind you; I think that the differing points of view contribute greatly and significantly enhance the greater meaning of the tale. It would have been nice, focusing strictly on Glorfindel and his personal experiences with the process, but this is so much more. Which makes me wonder if some folks might be put off reading it because the "advertising" does make it sound like it's a Glorfindel story. A very odd thought, but there it is. And though I have been quite entertained by Eonwe and "The Book," I was also glad to see a bit greater detail about the truth of it. It added a bit of "otherness" to him -- now very much a Maia of great stature, and not just one of the crowd. Enjoyable indeed.

Nieriel Raina · 7 November 2007 · Chapter 133: Vorondil On Trial

And another wonderful chapter! I am enjoying seeing Sador come into his own. Too bad he doesn't rub off more on Glorfindel. *ducks* I was also glad to see the elflings got to actually see the trial, not just hear of it. Whenever the Lord of Mandos in out of his usual garb, beware! (for NiRi has probably raided his closet. *snickers*) I did find the other Valar being absent very telling. It was so nice to see Namo acting as councilor as well, not judge. Yet, judges make VERY good councilors. *smile* <> LMAO! <<"If it pleases His Majesty," Lord Námo intoned gravely, "the accused pleads not guilty." >> *smile* Loved Finrod calling teh people back in line. Very kingly of him there. <> Agreed. But... all through this story you have used 'gwador' when referring to these three. I thought muindor meant blood brother? You use it at least twice in this chapter. Is that significant or a typo? The whole sequence with Ingwion really threw me at first, but second time through... wow. I hope you do tell that tale one day. I am very interested. And again, Sador just shines in this chapter! <<"But I do, child," he said compassionately. "More than you can ever fully comprehend." >> *sigh* I love Namo. Have I told you that? And Glorfindel as always! Great chapter! NiRi

Nieriel Raina · 7 November 2007 · Chapter 132: Confessions and Confrontations

Gooodness, I have been busy! Let's see... Oh! WOW! THREE WHOLE CHAPTERS in ONE sitting?? *content smile* That was a very nice surprise! Thanks! I did read them initially but at work where I can't review! Let's see... *goes and rereads* Ah yes! Vorondil...that poor ellon. My heart just goes out to him greatly! He reminds me of some kids I knew in High School who were pretty terrible...until I found out what their home life was like. Then with love and some intervention by others, they turned out okay. I am glad to see no one is giving up on him. It was also shocking (though probably shouldn't have been) to me that Vorondil wanted Finrod to kill him. I honestly thought he had just reacted and not even realized the knife was still in his hands. Aldundil's heartfelt reaction was touching. Despite everything I have hope that this family may one day at least find peace and contentment if not exactly happiness. The continued tension between Finrod and the Valar is interesting to see, especially considering Finrod's place as the Feanturi's apprentice. And I think the Valar will never stop surprising me! LOL! I was glad to see Finrod would not allow Aldundil to take Vorondil's punishment again. One thing that disturbed me somewhat was Namo's preoccupation with the past being changed and seeming to forget that nothing happens that Eru does not have a hand in. It seemed Finrod had more of a grasp on that. The scene with the elflings had me smiling! "We're in mourning." LOL! Poor kids. Morgoth truly did his work well, and we can see it in these children who are suffering from teh marring. It is sad, and yet there is hope. And LOOK! Eonwe showed up! I'm still not sure why I like him so much, but I cheer everytime he is 'on scene'. There is just something... something like Namo has about him. Maybe it is that ability to remember the oaths...but that wasn't in this chapter. Loved Manveru and Erunaro with the elflings! They also are a joy to see 'on screen'. And loved Glorfindel's comment. "Hey! I can boil water with the best of them!" LOL! Great chapter! NiRi

Camryn · 6 November 2007 · Chapter 134: Justice Is Not Healing

My God, I love this story. The relationships and the character growths are fascinating and I can't wait to see what happens next. But what did Valandur say to Ingwe? Does it have something to do with Glorfindel? *bites lips* I really really want the next chapter and you'd think I'd be satisfied with a hundred and thirty-four chapters (which have taken me the past two days to read and wow my eyes really hurt right now) but no. Your writing is too addicting! And now I shall have to go read your other stories and I shall never sleep again. *gives you a sad look* I would blame you but I love this story far too much. So here's hoping that your muses for this story continue to speak!

Lilandriel · 4 November 2007 · Chapter 134: Justice Is Not Healing

oh! i am truely intrigued regarding the passage about the Book of Oaths. i think, however, i understand, though i can't find the words to explain. i'll admit, i had no idea what the outcome would be, and i am very pleased that things worked out the way that they did. maybe those in need can finally find some peace, and in time, healing