Reviews (1,161)

Nikara · 21 March 2007 · Chapter 59: Storm Clouds Gathering

Hmm... The Hunt with a capital H. This should be interesting. I was eagerly anticipating the scenes where Glorfindel would have his little "visitations". Heh. I think Finrod disliked them almost as much as Glorfy did. Can't wait for more, this is starting to get quite exciting.

Kitty · 21 March 2007 · Chapter 58: Friends in High Places

When reading the bit of Sindarin Eärnur used to try and calm Mithlas down I nearly spit my coffee at the screen. No wonder it didn’t work *lol* It’s about time the Loriennildi are learning a bit more Sindarin. But at least Eärnur is truly trying to learn and understand, what is so much more than most of the others do. It was so very satisfying to watch Finrod and Laurendil take action to help Mithlas! Honestly, the Loriennildi should be able to understand that these „apprentices“ have much more knowledge about certain things than they will ever have. But instead of asking them to help they prevent them from doing what is needed *rolls eyes* Anyway, enjoyed it that Finrod went to Melian and that she rubbed in that he is her great-nephew. And then Irmo’s appearance, backing up Finrod and taking the masters away with him. It may not be nice, but they seemed rather arrogant, and so I felt a bit smug about it. But this chapter yet again makes very clear that it is about time the elves who never left Aman and the ones from Middle-earth, reborn or not, are learning more about each other and to live with each other. Sometimes I think these masters should be able to relive the experiences their charges went through – maybe then they would be more sympathetic!

vaske · 20 March 2007 · Chapter 59: Storm Clouds Gathering

I'd gotten so wrapped up in Finrod's story that I'd almost forgotten about Glorfindel!!! I guess that even though that 'everything is as it should be' doesn't mean that Finrod and Ingwion have to like it being this way. The hunt begins... Can't wait til the next installment

vaske · 20 March 2007 · Chapter 58: Friends in High Places

I guess Eärnur needs a few more Sindar lessons, lol. I love the variety of characters in this story, I never expected Melian to show up here!

MithLuin · 20 March 2007 · Chapter 59: Storm Clouds Gathering

Those pesky Valar! "Everything is as it should be" indeed *snort* I am glad Finrod and his friends are catching on to that, though.... Ingwion and Findarato will make a good team, I think. And I'm glad we're going to find out how poor Sador is faring (I'm curious what's up with his potter-master back in Tirion, but I suppose I'll have to wait quite awhile for that puzzle to be cleared up!) A little nervous about this Hunt. It sounds official and very...very... fairy. Like the elves in the Hobbit, chasing the white stag.

Calenlass Greenleaf · 20 March 2007 · Chapter 59: Storm Clouds Gathering

Ah...so now we get back to Glorfindel. :-) 2 wonderful chapters I enjoyed. Or rather, the whole story. Not many people write about this part of Glorfindel's or Finrod's life, so I still enjoy this immensely.

Ellie · 18 March 2007 · Chapter 57: Those Who Guard

I loved the comfort which Finrod provides and in turn is provided. I'm glad that Irmo and Namo keep championing Finrod's cause and the new ancient majesty we see in Finrod is incredible. Just when I think this story can't get any better, it does. I found the discussion of king as guardian quite profound. I think the whole concept is embodied by Ingwe, really, for the Vanyar consider themselves the "Children of Ingwe". (I just wrote a story about this concept last week and was quite surprised to see you echoing the same sentiment about kings as guardians in your chapters this weekend. Made me feel like I must have done something right if a brief part of your story agreed with my sentiment :-) ) I'm thrilled that you are posting more often and that your chapters are related thematically, so the posting at the same time makes so much sense. I am in awe of how much work you have put into the character development and the multiple plot lines. One future problem I see is that Amarie won't know Finrod when he returns and I think he will be so far beyond her as to not have an interest in her any more. Who will win him then? Would he be satisfied with a mere elven woman? Interesting thing to wonder about. Can't wait for more!

vampfan30 · 18 March 2007 · Chapter 57: Those Who Guard

it's been a while since i have reviewed, bum shoulder. anyhoo, i absolutely love this story. the valar are amazing & so multi-layered...glorfindel is wonderful& finrod is shaping up nicely, too. keep it up.......^_^

MithLuin · 18 March 2007 · Chapter 57: Those Who Guard

I thought it so funny that reborn-Finrod has lost his battle scars. Though, good, since I really don't want to contemplate what the werewolf did to him... I thought he got off a bit easy with his oath. So it only hits him now? Interesting... And I'm really appreciating the re-emergence of King Felagund. He seems to have regained something by actually acting as king, rather than just being called king. Looking forward to him meeting his 12 companions who died with him. I have to admit, though, that I think "Manwen" a funny name. It isn't, of course, but I always read it as "Man-woman" *grin*

Kitty · 18 March 2007 · Chapter 57: Those Who Guard

You let Irmo explain the problems of kingship very well. I truly wish rulers in our days would be at least a bit as responsible as Finrod! And I am glad most of Finrod’s companions have been released as well. He will surely be glad to see them again some day. Maybe that will be not so very far in the future, considering what is happening just now. Love the idea of the Valar giving Finrod a copy of the ring of Barahir! It’s a fitting gift for this purpose. It is certainly a big responsibility, but I think Finrod is the right elf for this task. (Though now I’m thinking what our dear Meneldil would say about *apprentice* Findárato being a brother of the Valar *eg* ) And I probably repeat myself, but I love your Valar and their sense of humour!

Kitty · 18 March 2007 · Chapter 56: Repercussions

It’s good to see the three more at easy with their new function as apprentices, and rather satisfying to know they are able to help others. And I think it is not too surprisingly that Finrod has matured a bit more after what happened. It brought his responsibilities more clearly to mind. It seems to make a great difference to the ones he is talking to if the former King of Nargothrond is taking care of them or only someone they don’t know, and who possibly doesn’t truly know and understand why they are so desperate. As for Meneldil ... well, tactfulness isn’t his first name, isn’t it? The way he reacted to Manwen’s crying left me wondering why he is already Master, if he can’t be more understanding. Finrod, on the other hand, was wonderful with her. The necklace was the perfect way to distract her, I’d say. But well, Meneldil apologised and accepted Finrod’s apology in return, and he thought about it afterwards, so maybe he has learned something from it.

vaske · 18 March 2007 · Chapter 57: Those Who Guard

Lol, I love how shocked Finrod was when Manwe mentioned that ‘The Elf and the Fruit Vendor’ was Varda's favourite song. A copy of the Ring of Barahir was the perfect for Finrod. One thing I've always wondered though, there are serpents on the Ring of Barahir but I don't think I've ever read about snakes being in either Arda or Aman. Maybe it's just one of those things...

vaske · 18 March 2007 · Chapter 56: Repercussions

Finrod must have been an amazing king! It's one thing to elves to show respect by bowing but now some of the Maia are too... I'm really enjoying the parts with Meneldil, he reminds me of lecturers who are really knowlegdeable about their field but have no idea how to teach.

Nikara · 17 March 2007 · Chapter 57: Those Who Guard

Lovely. Very well done, with nice attention to the little details of the personal relationships. I'm definitely enjoying going through this story and discovering a new world through it.

Rhyselle · 17 March 2007 · Chapter 57: Those Who Guard

Oh most wonderful! I'm probably going to have to go back and re-read this chapter several times in order to get everything I can out of it. Just in the second read through as I write this review, new things are jumping out at me. I've kind of noticed that while Namo is the Vala who tends to interact most with Glorfindel, Irmo really seems to be Finrod's Vala. Their interactions feel 'right' and it really came through in this chapter, particularly in their discussion of the functions of kingship in general and Finrod's kingship in particular. That was just fascinating, as was the comment about how he should not seek out his companions who had been Reborn, but to let them come to him as their oaths drew them. I liked how Finrod was accepting of Irmo's explanation on how they were protecting him from the emotional impact of his own oath-taking... a much more mature response than he might have given even weeks ago. And Irmo admitting that Finrod had taken him and his brother Námo by surprise was great! And Námo's comment about the Valar's perspective of how long the Firstborn had been on Arda was a great reminder about the infiniteness of eternity on either side of the present. The gifting of the ring... what a perfect gift it was... and the comment about it being a fair copy with the original being on the hand of the current Lord of Andúnië in Númenórë gave a nice touchstone as to where in the longer history of Arda that Finrod is right now. "His life was here in Aman now, and he was content." Only months ago, Finrod would not have been able to say this and mean it. It's a simple line but it expresses his development since his release from Mandos better than almost anything else I've read. :) The Valar like using jewelry and such to be triggers don't they? *grin* The sparse description of what Finrod experienced when he put the ring on served much better than the longest, most adjective-laden prose could possibly have done. So many wonderful lines: Then Námo spoke. "Once you found yourself within the Ring of Doom and we were your Judges. Today you find yourself within a circle of friends and we are your Companions." The solemn joyfulness of their greeting him with embraces and kisses (Tulkas' bear-hug made me smile) was perfectly counterpointed with the humorous exchange at the end about needing to go cheer up Laurendil. I bet Nienna was just as merry as Varda when Finrod described the usual method. And then his backpedaling towards prudence when Manwë told him to not be surprised if Varda joined them when they sang 'The Elf and the Fruit Vendor' made me laugh harder... Felagund proposing prudence? LOL! And I could just see Námo being all solemn and then his face breaking into a wide laughing grin as he pointed out that prudence wouldn't be nearly as much fun. Terrific ending to a chapter full of intense and wonderful emotions. Well done! (And once again I give you a review that likely rivals the chapter for word count! LOL!)

Rhyselle · 17 March 2007 · Chapter 56: Repercussions

I'm very pleased to see that Eärnur was able to get past his initial awkwardness with Finrod after the oathtaking. I love how Finrod seems to have the gift of turning disquiet and discomfort and embaressment into laughter. I take it that this language lesson was a bit more practical than teaching Sindarin insults? *grin* And it is good to see Laurendil finally recognizing that being a healer has always been a calling he held inside and just never recognized. :) Good for him! You warned me that Finrod would be maturing very quickly and I can see it here. And while he is so good for those returned from Middle-earth, he is the perfect caregiver for the Reborn... he has stood in their shoes and they have the same experiential 'vocabulary'. "Awakening" has a much different meaning to a Reborn elf than it would have to one who had never died. And I do love the mental picture of him playing and singing the lullaby to the restless Reborn. The scene of Manwen's crisis was amazing--almost as powerful as the oath-taking itself. Finrod stepping in with kingly authority when Meneldil got angry about Manwen's hysterics had me riveted. His explanation of just what she had done was certainly not sugarcoated, but she needed the unvarnished truth of it. I did think for a moment he could have also reminded her that living for someone is much more difficult than dying for someone... and then he made that dry jest about be soaked with his people's tears doing nothing for his image... and the laughter brought her back from the panic. I really liked that. The gift and meaning of the necklace was lovely and I rather liked Finrod telling her that it was beautiful now because she wore it. :) The line about matching jewelry was fun. I love how even in the most solemn of scenes there's always these little bits of humor that sneak in. Oh boy! Manwen is already living up to her oath! I can just hear her say the warning to Meneldil--no need to raise the voice to get her anger across--and then to have it confirmed by Lord Irmo! Wow! The best conversational exchange in this chapter is between Irmo and Finrod: "Honestly, I’m beginning to regret ever having asked you here, Findaráto," the Vala said in feigned exasperation. "You’ve been nothing but trouble since you arrived." "First of all, my lord, you ordered me here and second..." Finrod’s eyes glinted with some undefinable dark emotion, yet there was a hint of humor in them as well. "Sauron said the same thing... just before he set his werewolf on me." How many of the Eldar in Aman know of just how Finrod died anyway? I'm reading the part of the Silmarillion where Finrod was captured and brought before Sauron and they had that battle of songs of power. It's so easy to forget just what abilities that the Noldor king had when we've been seeing him be an adolescent ellon through most of this story so far... and now I am reminded, in these most recent chapters, about his gifts and graces and his magic--although in general, I've noticed that a lot of fanfic writers seem to be reluctant to incorporate the magic that Tolkien described the elves using. His power to soothe the feär through his music and song is a magic as strong as that he used in his musical contest with Sauron, if not stronger. Meneldir's apology does seem sincere, even though he had to be urged to it by Lord Irmo. And Finrod's apology to him was just classy. :) I thought that Nienna taking Manwen to her home to recover and to learn was wonderful. And I liked that she, too, has a sense of humor. Most people paint her as ever sad--but as you say about Lord Namo, can anyone who has sung before the Throne of Eru Iluvatar not have a core of joy within him or her? And you got me to laugh with the last line too. When Master Meneldir went off wondering if he were in the right profession, I had to giggle again. He did need humbling... perhaps he will in the end find his own life happier by getting rid of his stuffy pride and snobbish attitude. One can hope. Thanks for a great chapter! Off to read the next new one!

Calenlass Greenleaf · 17 March 2007 · Chapter 57: Those Who Guard

I'm beginning to love Finrod more and more.He's a pretty unique character in the Silmarillion, and I think you've brought him to life. :-)

Radbooks · 17 March 2007 · Chapter 55: Vanda Mapaina

I haven't left a review for a time because I have company and I barely have time to print the chapters and run off to read them. :) But I've thoroughly enjoyed the last 7 or 8 or however many it's been since I last reviewed your story. I'll try and give you a few thoughts here. :) My heart so aches for Glorfindel and what he's going through. I just know that if they hadn't had swords he could have taken those cowards. Well, maybe. :) The fact that they took his peridot ring concerns me since I know the Valar gave that to him so that he wouldn't 'slip his leash' and I'm afraid he might do that when he wakes up and realizes where he is. I can only hope that Ingwion finds him first, though that seems unlikely at this point. I think that he is just too many hours behind right now. Part of me wants to say that elves would never, ever do things like this to each other and then I remember Feanor and the kinslayings and that jealousy and hatred can raise its head in any living being. As much as I want to find out what is happening with Glorfindel, I am glad to see what is happening with Finrod. I can just imagine his shock at discovering that he was intended to become an apprentice! The plans we set for ourselves are not always the plan that God, or in this case, Eru, has for us. At least he was able to see that and come to full acceptance of that idea and submit to the plan that Irmo and Namo have for him... it sounds interesting to say the list and somehow I can't help thinking that it's going to involve Glorfindel here soon. :) The part where Finrod and Laurendil rescued the master healer from the Sinda warrior was revealing. The arrogance of those that are trying to help those in need is appalling and highlights the obvious need for elves like Laurendil and Manwen and Finrod... elves that have compassion and can at least understand what the elves are going through!! Wow, the oath ceremony was... it's hard to describe. I remember back when Glorfindel asked Olorien about if oaths ended with death and evidently they don't and now I can see why not! One thing I didn't understand was why Finrod made the comment to Irmo that he had taken a valuable apprentice away from him. Laurendil has made the same oath and there didn't seem to be any problem with him being an apprentice. Couldn't they have an oath to an elf and still be an apprentice to a Valar? I would think that Finrod has an oath to his father - but maybe not - and he just swore and oath to Irmo and Namo. But, I do suppose it could get tricky to have these oaths to both because if you've given your word to Finrod and then Irmo tells you to something else or the opposite, who do you obey? Perhaps I'm overthinking this a bit! Anyway, I'm really enjoying this and looking forward to the next chapter!

hanci · 16 March 2007 · Chapter 55: Vanda Mapaina

I think Meneldil still bristles over the scene earlier, with Mithlas. And poor Eärnur gets caught up in it. Light bickering -who can order Laurendil from the pavilion- suddenly turned much more serious. I had no idea an oath between vassal and lord was so personal. That's not an oath one would take -or break- lightly. (No wonder Glorfindel still feels his fealty owed to Turgon, if he swore an oath like that.) ...delighted oak tree... :o)))

hanci · 16 March 2007 · Chapter 54: Language Lessons

No-one speaks Sindarin? Really? High time that changed! Newcomers (reborn or otherwise) have much to accustom themselves to without the added stress of a foreign language. :o) I guess everyone reacts like this after reading this chapter. :o) It's wonderful, learning a language similar to the one you already know, much easier. Unfortunately, you can't rely on that, there's always a word that sounds the same and means something else - that's not their problem now, but mine... I haven't made (*knock on wood*) really embarassing mistakes, but some of the ones I make just persist... I totally understand Eärnur's distress when no-one tells him what he said! I know the feeling... And Manwen's suspicion is natural, it's something friends love to do. I like Finrod's flashback, the same with every memory they share, it makes their life in Arda more real and I want to know more...

Edlyn · 16 March 2007 · Chapter 12: Lessons in Compassion

Well, finals week is almost over and I have time to breathe and read and review again. So on to chapter 12. I figure if I can manage an average of two or three chapters a day I ought to be caught up on reviewing in about 18 days or so. I have to assume that Ninniach is still in the Mardi Winiron given her age when she was killed. I hope that one day she and Sador will be reunited. Has it occurred to Sador that she is in Mandos? I bet I know one reason why no one will tell Glorfindel specifics about Eärendil! They're afraid he'll stow away on Vingilot! "Do loyalty and service and oaths die with the hröa? Are they not eternal, like the fëa? If these do not survive death, why should anything survive, even love?" Glorfindel definitely has some very good questions here. My initial answer would actually be "it depends." It depends on the intent and wording of the oath. And oath to the ending of the world would continue, an oath to the end of one's life would end with death. In my opinion, the love and attendant feelings of responsibility that you have for friends, family and others doesn't end with death. I can't provide proof that would satisfy a sceptic but I truly believe that is true. When I read of Glorfindel trying the different arts and crafts it reminded me of trying all th different arts andsciences when I first joined the SCA. I tried carpentry (was really bad at it), calligraphy and illumination (was good at both and still do them), beer-making (something I enjoyed but didn't want to get further into), making period clothing andaccessories, learning the bardic arts, and so on. It seems to me the thing that Glorfindel is best at is being a protector and a caregiver. Yes, he has political skills and warrior skills but I don't think he would have developed them without the ability and need to be a caregiver. I would love to be able to sit under the stars with my friends, singing and playing music with each other. Unfortunately, the gorgeous 70 degree weather we had earlier in the week has vanished like smoke in the wind and it's in the 30s and wet. Not exactly conducive to the well being of musical instruments and voices. I truly feel for Sador. He has no family to go to, is a race of elves looked down on by the elves who went to Aman, and isn't linked to a noble family. I can feel a hint of bitterness in his words but also a long held resignation that things were unlikely to change. I do love your scenes of hte Valar talking together. Varda is just wonderful, not stuffy at all. Of course, she can be regal, commanding, and so on but she has a sense of humor, much affection for the Eruhini, and doesn't seem to suffer fools gladly. She's wonderfully three dimensional (as are the other Valar we have met so far). Beekeeping is interesting. I wouldn't mind doing it but I have too many friends who are severely allergic to bee venom. I've done some jewlry making (mostly wire and beads), and my twin (inspried by you) has dragged me into doing ribbon embroidery (I do like it. I just never had thought of doing it as I usually do counted cross-stitch or crewelwork). Gee, if I add in the years I did foil and epee with the Scott AFB Fencing Team, I have more in common with Glorfindel than I thought. Ah, Sador is so wise, isn't he? But he did the exact same thing! And actually, he is even more impressive because he wasn't trained as a warrior when he ran towards death to protect those he loved. Now is the rest of Aman ready for Glorfindel? An excellent chapter, mellon-nin. I hope that you have a good weekend! Edlyn

Calenlass Greenleaf · 15 March 2007 · Chapter 55: Vanda Mapaina

I wasn't know for my patience. *grin* But I'll wait. Even if it kills me. This is story is just to good to put aside. In the meantime, I'll read your Thorongil story...I have yet to review that one. *Berates self for being lazy* Later! ~Calenlass

Bodkin · 15 March 2007 · Chapter 55: Vanda Mapaina

Meneldil, on the other hand, needs to open himself to the idea that even Masters keep on learning as long as they are breathing. And probably afterwards, too, given Namo's character. 'Merely a patient? Isn't that at least in part the purpose for Meneldil's way of life? Arrogant snot. I'm glad Irmo decided to - er make a statement that might hold off the morons. The results of Manwen's offer were rather - scary. And a good reminder to the rest of the company that Finrod is rather more than a mere apprentice, whosever the tabard he wears.

Bodkin · 15 March 2007 · Chapter 54: Language Lessons

What better way for Earnur to earn Laurendil's trust than to learn from him? Especially if he makes a few rather entertaining mistakes! That is an intelligent and open-minded Journeyman - and I have little doubt that he will be of far greater help to Laurendil because of it.

Rhyselle · 14 March 2007 · Chapter 55: Vanda Mapaina

Yes, stick with food nouns and verbs... LOL! Oh dear, I wondered how fast Meneldil would show up again and what his reaction would be to the new apprentices. It figures that he'd jump on them about not standing... I had something similar happen to me on one of my military deployments with the Navy... normally if you are "under cover" or beneath a roof, you don't wear your uniform hat and don't salute officers. I had just stepped onto a covered porch and was reaching for the door handle to open it when it opened and an officer came out and he got all over my case because I didn't salute him instantly... but I was under a roof, and therefore by custom was not required to do so. Unfortunately, I'd only been there a few hours and no one had told me that on that particular base, even if you are on a covered porch, if you are outside the door you had to salute. The officer's reaction to my explanation was on par with Meneldil's attitude towards Finrod's explanation. I loved how Eärnur was polite and respectful but called Meneldil on his rudeness in the way he referred to Finrod and Laurendil. I do feel sorry for him though.. Meneldil's reprimand obviously is a serious matter. When the Master turned to Finrod and pretty much stated that he was to be punished too, it made me as mad as Finrod was! If all of the Masters there are like him, no wonder the Sindarin's are mistaking them for orcs! I loved Laurendil standing up to him. And I loved Finrod reminding Laurendil that there were THREE who could order him from the pavilion. *grin* I knew even before I read it further down the page that one of them would be Manwen! That demonstration of Laurendil's vassalage to Finrod just was so powerful. And I was just stunned by the emotion and power of Manwen's oathtaking. This obviously is something VERY important to a greater purpose... FOUR Valar showing up! And Eru speaking through Finrod. I got the shivers when I read that... the good kind, like I get when I hear a particularly meaningful hymn or hear someone bear testimony or I read a scripture that I really NEED to know. I love it that Eru speaks through many, and not just the Valar. :) The ending phrase, for me, somehow reflects this entire story for me... it's a story about Joy, when we get down to it. And the "delighted oak tree" just seems to personify (tree-ify? *g*) it for me. Thanks for the two new chapters!