Reviews (1,161)

Nariel · 29 October 2007 · Chapter 131: An Afternoon of Shame and Glory

I'm so glad that you updated within a week with two chapters this time. Is there a catch to you updating with two chapters faster than you had done previously in the last few weeks? We finally find out who the mysterious archer is! I wonder why he acted like he did when Finrod's name was mentioned? Was he an elf who had lived in his realm of Nargothrond? If he was, I'm thinking that he is most likely feeling guilty for abandoning Finrod in his moment of need in the Lay of Luthien. Or was he a friend of Finrod's in Beleriand? I wonder... Mithlas has improved a lot since we last met up with him and now he's helping another Moriquendi. I'm not using it as a deragatory term here if you are wondering. It's nice to see him make friends with Turindil who seems like he needs one. What does Turindil mean? I'm thinking it means 'friend of...' It isn't a lot but at least I know that 'dil' is 'friend' in Quenya. The part where Aldarion misses by a long shot is quite funny. I did archery as a teen and once I shot it in a hill which happened to be extremely far from the targets. I think I lost the arrow which I had to at least try and find. I so want to see Findis's reaction to when Aldarion tells her that her bracelets destracted him and almost made him hit the High King. Will we get to? You responded in the chapter where Finrod and Haldir fight that you would never leave a reader hanging. Well now you have with this evil cliffhanger that I so want to find out what happens. Thanks for updating today! It made me really cheerful to see this. I had a really bad day today with some people who were being jerks so this was a treat and a suprise for me.

Nieriel Raina · 29 October 2007 · Chapter 130: Turindil

Oh what a delightful chapter! I really enjoyed this. You do have my mind running in about a hundred directions trying to figure out who Turindil is that so many recognize him. I even pulled out my copy of the Silm trying to figure out where he came from and who he might possibly be. I have a couple of theories, but I'll keep them to myself, since you won't tell me if I'm right anyway. *wink* I am happy to see Mithlas not only healed, but now helping others thanks to his stay in Lorien. Loved the Cabor Gabel! I wonder, do they serve Cabor legs? *grin* I really enjoyed the whole exchange between the ellyn. And Turindil's reaction to Glorfindel and then Finrod's names really made me think. And then I was back to trying to figure out who this elf is. His name is very interesting indeed. I also find it very interesting that Glorfindel knows many people who could answer his questions about Earendil and his line, yet he never thinks to ask? Or it never comes up around him. LOVED Lord Elrond throwing Mithlas on the boat! LOL! Then of course, Lady Vana shows up (I like her) and you got my mind swirling again about who Turindil could be! But mostly, I LOVED this interplay between Vana and Orome. I just adore seeing the Valar in their roles as spouses. You write it so well. Now...tell me just ONE thing. What is wrong with wearing black? *looks down at all black ensemble* I mean...black is CLASSY! It's slimming! It's...yes, I know, depressing but I love black! Vaire getting Namo into the green was nice, I admit. (it was a darker green after all. And he looks great in midnight blue too.) But BRIGHT YELLOW? With his blue-black hair, he will look like a bumble bee! *snickers* Wouldn't the elves find THAT shocking.... Great chapter, Fiondil. *loud applause*

eiluj · 29 October 2007 · Chapter 130: Turindil

I never expected Tulkas would freak out the archers to that extent! *snicker* Mithlas and Glorfindel exchanged looks which the Vanya could not interpret -- I think you mean Mithlas and *Gilvagor.* *sigh* And I had such a *good* theory about the Mystery Archer! No wonder he’s doing so well in the contest, if that’s who he is.... Interesting that no one seems to know who he is (even he himself) -- not that I doubt the Valar! I can see why Mithlas recognizes him, and how Turindil knows Finrod, but not sure how he would have known Glorfindel. Guess it’s time to re-read the Sil. [And I had him pegged as a Bad Guy! Now to rework my end-of-the-tourney scenario with Turindil winning the archery prize....] Sorry, but I did spend all those years as a (volunteer) proofreader for a ton of calendars and bibliographies and handouts, so I have to ask: Are Elessairon (Glorfindel’s friend, the Noldo “fosterling” whose father is -- um -- Calmacil?) and Elessoron Aranwion (winning archer at the *first* tourney) two different ellyn, or the same ellon with two slightly different names? Elessoron appears in ch. 95 to win the archery prize, then shows up again in ch. 125 as an archery competitor in the *second* tourney, but now in this chapter is apparently out of the competition (spooked by Tulkas?). Everywhere else it’s Elessairon (I’m pretty sure). I’d assumed they were different ellyn, but now I’m thinking they’re the same person: we never see the two of them together.... [Darned elves should be named Joe and Fred, or even Javier and Héctor -- or for my current Southern incarnation, maybe Billy Bob and Kenny -- and I’d cope better.... Don’t mind me.... 8-)] Námo in bright yellow ... GACK.

Tira · 29 October 2007 · Chapter 130: Turindil

you had to mention mushrooms, I see, lol... and Namo would look terrible in yellow.

Beruthiels Cat · 29 October 2007 · Chapter 131: An Afternoon of Shame and Glory

AARRGGHH!!! Give us TWO lovely chapters so you can leave us with another cliffie...that's evil. More, please! I like Turindil. Hmmm...released ahead of time, and seemingly familiar. What ARE you up to NOW, Fiondil? *Grins* BC

Lilandriel · 29 October 2007 · Chapter 131: An Afternoon of Shame and Glory

*sighs* i forgot to fill in my name and email! *slaps forhead* time for bed.....

Anonymous · 29 October 2007 · Chapter 131: An Afternoon of Shame and Glory

that's a bit sad :( but i expect many of the Reborn feel the same way how do you come up with this!? the archery contest sounds fantastic! i wish i was there to watch oh, gosh :( poor Vorondil. i feel sorry for him. he's so young, and so much is not his fault. rofl! i've just read the original song! i love the adaptation! xx

Lilandriel · 29 October 2007 · Chapter 130: Turindil

wonderful!! 2 new chapters! *huggles* i'm doing my brain in trying to figure out who he could possibly be! ya don't make this easy, ya know!! ;-)

Encaitariel · 29 October 2007 · Chapter 110: Putting Glorfindel in the Mood

Hello, Fiondil- I just found your stories not too long ago, and I think that they are amazing, this one especially! Thanks. I especially enjoy Glorfindel's relationship with the Maiar, very appropriate, I think. Encaitariel

eiluj · 25 October 2007 · Chapter 129: A Talk With Tulkas

I’m wondering if Lindorillë’s father will make trouble (violent Finrod’s unfit to be guardian for his daughter and the other elflings, etc.). No doubt the visit to the elflings' homes will be an interesting experience for Sador and Alassiel, though I have faith in their ability to cope. You haven’t mentioned whether Finrod or Ingwion has yet informed Ingwë about L’s father being chummy with Súlimondil and Valancar. “He cannot help the fact that had all gone as planned, he would never have been born." -- That reminded me of something I can’t find but think I’m remembering: Vorondil blaming the rebel Noldor for Aldundil’s risking his life in the War of Wrath, because if Aldundil had been killed, Vorondil wouldn’t have been born. I’m glad there’s no danger here of Tulkas squeezing Glorfindel until he turns purple -- and I’m sure Glorfindel is happy about it too! So Tulkas is teaching Finrod tricks he can use to defeat Glorfindel in the first match. Tit for tat, after the Ardamirë episode.... Actually, when I described DWJ as “a favorite (mostly) children’s fantasy author” I meant that most of her books were *children’s* books (though I have to admit there are a few I’m unlikely ever to read a second time). My most-reread favorites would be “Charmed Life,” “Howl’s Moving Castle” (though the film was rather ... well ... *Japanese*), “Dark Lord of Derkholm,” “The Magicians of Caprona,” “The Ogre Downstairs,” “Archer’s Goon,” and the frequently-anthologized story “Nad and Dan adn (sic) Quaffy” (which inspired me to make a list of all the possible ways to spell ‘coffee’). “Deep Secret” a friend and I decided had to be read before (or during) every science fiction convention we attended.... I heard DWJ speak years ago (she read us bits from her then-WIP “The Tough Guide to Fantasyland”): she was every bit as clever and funny as you’d expect her to be. It was interesting to learn she’d been very ill some years before (medical malpractice stuff which took years to correct and recover from). I figured that explained the dark tone of some of the books I hadn’t been so happy with. An autobiographical essay about her *very* strange childhood (weirder even than “Time of the Ghost”): http://www.leemac.freeserve.co.uk/autobiog.htm -- and other stuff at that site. She wrote an essay about LotR, though I have no memory of having read it.

Calenlass · 25 October 2007 · Chapter 129: A Talk With Tulkas

*giggles at the thought of Namo being sneaky* A wonderful touch to the story. And Tulkas...he was perfect. On top of that, you made the chapter Finrod-centric. *happy sigh* You've made my day, Fiondil! -Cal

Kitty · 25 October 2007 · Chapter 129: A Talk With Tulkas

Glad Sador and Alassiel cared so well for the elflings. It had to be quite a nasty shock for them to witness that. Had guessed Finrod would consider to step out of the tournament, so I wasn’t surprised that he did. Though I think the same argument he used with Haldir has to be used to stop him from doing that. Was rather amused about Glorfindel’s more emotional reason why Finrod has to finish the tournament, because I thought the same – he can’t draw back and disappoint me so! As I said before, I take it for granted these two will fight the last round against each other, and you had promised to have them fight against each other, after all. But was shocked me a bit was Finrod’s reaction to Glorfindel’s pleas. Poor guy – when he remembered *this*, it explains his mood very well. And the actions of certain Amanians had to hurt more than usual under the circumstances. Stupidity, like the air we breathe, is available to everyone, and we Valar have used up our fair share of it over the long ages since we came into Eä That is very nicely put! This chapter showed the Valar in a very nice way, so much more ... human, for lack of a better word, while the elves have to learn that even the Valar do not know everything. And I *so* enjoyed Tulkas’ story about the newborn elfling. Sneaky Námo, indeed, to simply take her while Manwë and Aul¨ still argued! And the Valier plottin how to encourage more elflings *grin* Now I want to read the story in detail! *turns to Rhyselle* Please? Hm, if I understand the end correctly, then Tulkas is going to spar with Finrod? Good idea! In his current shape he’s certainly no match for Glorfindel – our favourite balrog-slayer would wipe the ground with him.

Lilandriel · 25 October 2007 · Chapter 129: A Talk With Tulkas

this story is fantastic! i thought it about time i left you a review saying how much your work is appreciated, coz it really is :) *blushes* i'm just sorry i didn't do so sooner! i look forward to the next chapter xx

Nariel · 24 October 2007 · Chapter 129: A Talk With Tulkas

I'm glad you were quicker to update! This was quite interesting to see Finrod in tantrum mode. The part where he realizes he was building his own tomb is what I always thought he would think one day and you have written the part perfectly. I do think it's a bit ironic that he built the place where he was to die. Tulkas was a suprise when I saw the title of the chapter. I almost forgot about him. I guess the only ones I was really thinking about were the Feanturi, the Elder King and the Elentari. I'm glad that he is in the story again. He isn't written of enough. I realize it's not good to read other peoples' reviews, but you said in one response that the chapter about why Amarie didn't come and what the elflings were doing was to be coming up soon. Is it going to be the next chapters? Thanks for writing!

vampfan30 · 24 October 2007 · Chapter 129: A Talk With Tulkas

I enjoy your writing so much, it kills me ! you cram so much stuff in there & the characters are just that... characters, especially that Namo. I love him to death. keep up the amazing & complicated story - I always look forward to the next installment.... V

6336 · 24 October 2007 · Chapter 129: A Talk With Tulkas

I am beginning to wonder if those Elves who dislike the Re-born are jelous(sp?)? They have gone off and had an Adventure, they have fought and died have been re-born and all they have done has been to stay safe at home in Aman sitting on their hands and doing what the Valar seem to want them to do! Aldundil's wife seems to me to be a very bitter woman, one who can hold a grudge too! Serve Vorondil right, if I can't have him, and I am not waiting around for him to be re-born, I am going to have his brother! Why else did she name him Vorondil? Nasty twisted woman! Yes, Finrod needs to fight again, he has to 'Get back up on the horse!', I hope Tulkas can give him a few pointers, does Manwe plan on giving Glorfindal a few too? More please, 6336

Nieriel Raina · 24 October 2007 · Chapter 129: A Talk With Tulkas

Oh my what a chapter! I LOVE LOVE LOVE Tulkas! And I was so happy to see him in this chapter taking a main role with Finrod. I laughed so hard I could hardly breath when he grabbed Finrod and just marched off into a different reality and the other elves just stared. LOL! His talk with Finrod was wonderful too. I think that is another of those things I really like about your work is each of your characters is so distinct in personality. And I just adore Tulkas. He is definitely my 2nd place favorite after Namo, followed closely by Eonwe. *Grin* And Glorfindel. What can I say about him except he is ADORABLE! I had no doubts he would choke when Finrod said he was withdrawing from the list. And he might be in for a surprise or two after Finrod trains with Tulkas! *rubs hands in anticipation* And now you have me wanting to read this story of Rhyselle's! Sounds very good. Loved Namo being the 1st to hold the newborn. *grin* Thanks for another wonderful update! You made my night, since I'm still stuck in bed sick. Yuck. NiRi

Tira · 24 October 2007 · Chapter 129: A Talk With Tulkas

yay for namo! got to hold baby first *grin* on the story, though: wonderful chapter (and about time. it was a few days ago I told you to post!). Cannot wait to see what happens with Vorondil, and with Finrod...

eiluj · 21 October 2007 · Chapter 128: Disaster On Day Three

Wow. That was ... unexpected. I’d considered the possibility that with so many matches, someone would likely be injured, but this wasn’t at all what I’d had in mind.... It’ll be, I guess, several decades at the least before the *elder* Vorondil is Reborn. Hopefully things with Aldundil and the younger Vorondil will have been sorted out by then (at the moment, I’m not too optimistic about Calalindalë). It’ll be easier if the elder Vorondil’s parents are good, sensible elves. *What’s he doing?* Varda exclaimed to her fellow Valar. *He shouldn’t be able to do that!* *Well, he is, so your protestations are moot,* came a rather testy reply from Námo, who watched with narrowing eyes. *More is going on than I suspect even we know.* -- So even the Valar are in the dark. I just hope we’ll get an explanation eventually. "He’s still technically an elfling and obviously was not in his right mind ... so I doubt Findaráto will be too severe in meting out punishment.” -- It’ll be interesting to see how that turns out (not the punishment so much as to what extent Vorondil can be trusted) since the elfling is so hideously impulsive at the best of times. Don’t get me wrong: I’ve become quite fond of him, and enjoyed seeing him do so well, particularly the last week or so. But the kid is a *menace*! On the other hand, I’ve had close friends who tended toward the impulsive, inept and clueless -- not to mention I seem to remember using the word “inept” about *myself* not 24 hours ago.... 8-) "Damn that oath and Findaráto! ... My husband had no business taking oath with any Reborn, especially that one!" -- This contempt for Finrod in particular seems odd, unless it’s just his having been in the Rebellion. Or maybe she’s being a bit more imprecise in her speech than I realize. I’m worrying about the young elflings. They may take it amazingly in stride (as, for example, Veryandur’s curiosity -- rather than fear -- the day before, when something was obviously wrong with Haldir). I would think that Vorondil’s actions would be the scariest part of this situation, for the elflings. Of course none of this will quiet down the rumors.... And it’s only the morning of the third day of the tourney: you have another 48 hours or so to make things even worse! [I’m reminded of Diana Wynne Jones, a favorite (mostly) children’s fantasy author, who at the climax of every book (but one) persuaded me things were so dire she’d *never* be able to get the characters out of the situation they were in.]

ellie · 20 October 2007 · Chapter 128: Disaster On Day Three

wasn't expecting finrod to have problems after everyone else's histories of difficulties lately. i am really wondering what that light is that is in finrod and glorfy. i'm rather surprised at the prejudice against those who died that the lady was revealing at the end. i truly pity her son and her husband and her betrothed - poor him when he returns from mandos! i'm constantly intrigued to see the valar's reaction the children exhibiting new talents of which the valar were previously unaware. such a great tale - always on the edge of my seat wondering what will happen next.

Radbooks · 19 October 2007 · Chapter 128: Disaster On Day Three

Ah, the plot thickens. :) I knew that Vorondil could not have come by the level of hate that he carried by accident, it was too deep-seated and so of course it had to come from his family and his father didn't seem likely and really his mother didn't either. I thought perhaps it came from the extended family or close friends or something. But, this, yikes. I'm anxious to see what the outcome is for her and for Vorondil and Aldundil. I'd ask what is going on with Finrod, but I know I just have to wait patiently! :) I did wonder, though, why he isn't treating Namo and Irmo with more respect since he has given them an oath and they are his masters. I liked Glorfindel here... taking Vorondil in hand quickly as a warrior should and then being very young and uncertain when he's talking about his time in the Halls of Mandos. Such a wide range of things in a short time. Looking forward to the next chapter!

Nariel · 19 October 2007 · Chapter 128: Disaster On Day Three

Why can’t you update more often? Two weeks is too long! Why is it only one chapter at a time? What is wrong with Finrod? This chapter only makes me more curious. I wonder what would have happened if Finrod had been hurt by Vorondil… What did Amarie think of this? Is she even at the tournament? Is there going to be more of her? Finrod is being far from his normal calm, cheerful self. Is he jealous of the Valar? What did they do because I think it has something to do with the Valar interfering with his issues? Who won the match? Aldundil or Finrod? Will there be a rematch? Who won the other matches? I almost forgot about Calalindale… It’s understandable how she might feel about her betrothed and husband and son. What did she ever have against the exiles? I’m taking it that she is one of those elves who want the reborn gone. Will her situation be clearer in the next chapter? Why did she want Aldundil to marry her? Is it to take revenge on her betrothed? Finarfin swearing is something I shall remember the next time he is in a regal state… I never thought to hear the softest of Finwe’s sons swear in front of practically every important official person of power inValinor. Thanks though for updating. How far are you through the story? Half-way? What?

Tira · 19 October 2007 · Chapter 128: Disaster On Day Three

hmph. that was a horribly mean ending. i hate cliffies, I really do, and I would most definitely not like to be Calalindalë right now...

Nieriel Raina · 19 October 2007 · Chapter 128: Disaster On Day Three

My elfling is right, you are evil! What a place to leave us! But thank you for the update! *grins happily* Wow. What an intense chapter! Finrod is beginning to scare ME! And I just adore Glorfindel more and more as we go. *huggles elf* I nearly screamed when Finrod cut Aldundil! And then Vorondil jumped and and... *deep breath* Pass some of the cordial, will you? *grin* I am curious to know just why Finrod was distracted. And this thing in their eyes... something about the Reborn that baffles Valar is something to be reckoned with. And so we are seeing a glimpse of what the Nazgul fled from, huh? But what is it!? What is different about the fëa of the Reborn? I have no doubt it will be what enables them to go on to their destinies, Finrod in Aman and Glorfindel in Endorë. Very very interesting. Oooo... I have been wondering a lot about Calalindale and the little we have seen of her. Aldundil just has not seemed to be the real source of trouble and now we find out the truth. My heart aches for him. To be married to such a bitter woman and for all the wrong reasons! *huggles Aldundil* And I feel bad for her betrothed too. That will be tough to be Reborn and find out the one you love has married your brother? Very sad. And young Vorondil will now have to deal with the truth of his parents marriage. Life just sucks sometimes! I always like seeing the Valar shown as not perfect and second guessing themselves from time to time. I really hope their dispensing Judgement to Vorondil works out for good. I've really come to like that elfling and would be quite irate if he had to die now. Wonderful, tense chapter, Fiondil! Please please don't leave us hanging too long! NiRi

Edlyn · 19 October 2007 · Chapter 128: Disaster On Day Three

Oops! So much for proofreading my review before I post. I meant that I'd discuss the chapter somemore after I re-read it! LOL! Take care! Edlyn