Shoshana_Rose
· 22 March 2008
· Chapter 38: Scouting the Enemy
Excellent chapter yet again! The thick is plottening nicely (or should that be the other way around? ).
I truly enjoy Wídfara's gentle remonstration of Thandir (a man will certainly push boundaries for his brother), and how oblique he is about it.
Nice background on seige warfare and the belefits for avoiding it. I was in particular impressed how you included the detail about the difference between guarding a potential exit/entrance and blocking it off. Very incisive.
Can't wait to see what's afoot with Isenwulf (because I think something is!) Very dramatic ending!
Cheers,
Shoshi
Author's reply
Thanks Shoshi, I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. I draw my knoweldge of siege warfare based on my readings of medieval history, but I'm by no means an expert in the logistics of it. I'm sure there's more going on than we suspect with Isenwulf, but only time will tell. It will be a couple of months before anything happens since they all have to wait until spring. Thanks for reviewing.
Agape4Gondor
· 20 March 2008
· Chapter 38: Scouting the Enemy
I was very glad to see that Aragorn and Widfara were still friends. Sometimes, when one tries to help a friend, feelings can be hurt, motivations can be questioned, and a friendship is lost.
I liked Widafara's sly little hint that Aragorn really needed his help - if naught but to cut his meat. *giggles*
I found it interesting and will look forward to the explanation for Thandir's ill-ease at Thengel's new mission.
Great news that Thandir and Elrohir will be investigating help for Aragorn.
I smiled when the Rohirrim jumped. *giggles* Must be difficult on campaign with Elves! Another smile later in the chapter when Hildered wished he could disappear as silently as an Elf.
Another hmmm about the plague. Perhaps a certain wizard-induced event???
I had to LOL as I read about Gilhael's obvious enjoyment at being the one to tell the tale of the Silmarils...
Ever an optimist, I'm hoping that Isenwulf is only appearing to be a traitor. *crosses fingers*
And - an 'oh dear' passed my lips as I read the final sentence!
Great chapter of one of my favorite tales!
Author's reply
Aragorn and Wídfara's friendship is more like that of brothers, so even though the relationship got a bit strained there for a time, it didn't break and perhaps it is now stronger than before, as is evident from the sly teasing between them.
As to any explanation as to Thandir's ill-ease... as soon as he tells me I'll let you know. *grin*
It must be disconcerting to have someone just seemingly appear and disappear the way Elves do. I'm sure the Dúnedain Rangers got used to it, those who actually patroled with the Elves, but it must have seemed uncanny to the Rohirrim.
I had to LOL as I read about Gilhael's obvious enjoyment at being the one to tell the tale of the Silmarils...
My beta wondered if I was going to give the history of the Silmarils in 25 words or less. LOL. I'm not that brave.
We'll find out if Isenwulf is indeed a traitor and what Thengel will do now that they know that Edoras is closed to them.
Thanks for reviewing. I'm glad this is one of your favorite tales. It's one of mine, too.
Larner
· 19 March 2008
· Chapter 38: Scouting the Enemy
So much needs to be learned if they are to successfully retake Edoras. Thengel has his work cut out for him, as do these.
Author's reply
Indeed. It will not be easy to retake Edoras, though we know from history that it was done.
Neilia
· 19 March 2008
· Chapter 38: Scouting the Enemy
I have absolutely no experience in warfare. *holding my hands up in amaze with mouth hanging open* Now what is Thengel King going to do? It seems a siege would be way too long and a real killer...hmmmm. Glad you are writing this and not me. :) Love, Neilia
Author's reply
That's alright, Neilia. I've had no experience in warfare either. I just make this up as I go along. *grin* I do however, rely on historical accounts of warfare and the experiences of others to help me out. I'm sure Thengel will think of something (and obviously he did else Théoden wouldn't have been King of Rohan during the Ring War).
Shoshana_Rose
· 16 March 2008
· Chapter 37: A Confrontation Reprised
Hi! You know I've been eagerly awaiting this follow up to "Confrontation," and I'm very excited about the direction you've taken it. I hadn't thought that maybe Thandir was unaware of the consequences of his actions, but I'm intrigued to see the fallout.
I very much enjoyed the interaction between Thorongil and Wídfara in this chapter. I think that the liberties that Aragorn takes with Wídfara speak to the ease of their friendship. We tend to take our best friends most for granted, and speak most unthinkingly around them. That's how I interpret Aragorn's unthinking dismissal of Wídfara's concerns, and the subsequent apologies that must be made. :)
Very cute snow battle. I think you've captured the twins especially well.
Can't wait for more!
Cheers,
Shoshi
Author's reply
Even elves can make mistakes of judgment and Thandir obviously did in this case. Hopefully they will be able to work things out. Aragorn's relationship with Wídfara is pretty much like older brother-younger brother and older brothers tend to dismiss the concerns of younger brothers, not wanting to look weak of ineffective. So Aragorn's apology was needed for their relationship to continue. Perhaps in the future Aragorn will be less dismissive and unthinking of other people's concerns for him.
Thanks for your review. I really appreciate it.
Linda Hoyland
· 13 March 2008
· Chapter 37: A Confrontation Reprised
A most enjoyable chapter which answered some questions I've had for a while now. Good for Widfara to confrint Thandir!I am very glad there are no Elves around nowadays!I am utterly engrossed in this excellent story. I also enjoyed the children in the snow.
Author's reply
Hi, Linda. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter and are finding the story engrossing. Elves are pretty scary, no question about that and children playing in the snow are always fun to watch. Glad some of your questions were answered by this chapter. Thanks for reviewing.
Agape4Gondor
· 11 March 2008
· Chapter 37: A Confrontation Reprised
I absolutely loved this chapter. This story is gripping and exciting! Well-written!
I loved the transition from the joy of the 'battle' and its preparations to the horror of Aragorn's torment. I love Widfara's concern... and courage. I was upset by Aragorn's reaction - 'It was nothing' and Widfara's response. In fact, I was really surprised by Aragorn's trying to hide his problem.
I certainly hope that something can be done... Now I've got to find the chapter with Helm's Deep and re-read what happened!
Author's reply
Thanks, Agape, I'm glad you liked this chapter. The Helm's Deep chapter is entitled, oddly enough, "Confrontation". *grin* I think Aragorn is just young enough to be embarrassed by anything that makes him look "weak" especially before the elves and especially before his brothers, hence his reaction. Wídfara, of course, knows it's not nothing so when Aragorn practically accuses him of lying he is naturally upset. Hopefully it will all turn out well in the end.
Hildigrim
· 10 March 2008
· Chapter 37: A Confrontation Reprised
Reading this chapter made me go back and re-read the comment I made after Chapter 17. Thandir was even more over-the-top than I thought at the time.
Given the need for the youthful Aragorn to learn to control his thoughts (in preparation for future challenges -- e.g., with the palantir), the plot line is very interesting. Still, Thandir seems to be dangerously presumptuous.
Author's reply
Elves are not immune to making mistakes and errors of judgment. Thandir apparently was unaware how deeply his sense of urgency overcame Aragorn's natural resistence to having his will overpowered by another. I'm sure when Thandir returns to Imladris, Elrond will have a few words to say about it.
Nieriel Raina
· 10 March 2008
· Chapter 1: Arrival in Edoras
Okay, I'm behind reviewing everything else, but in being unable to find anything interesting to read, I started reading this finally. *grin* And as usual, you grabbed me and pulled me right in and now i need to know what happens and I'll have to find time to read it all amid the insaneness of cleaning, packing, moving, settling in.
Great opening! I look forward to reading more.
Author's reply
I figured you would like this if you gave it a try. *grin* Good luck with the move and I'll look for more reviews once you've settled in.
Larner
· 9 March 2008
· Chapter 37: A Confrontation Reprised
A marvelous idea that such a hymn should have been sung then. Now to learn what specifically is triggering the reversion to such early childhood. Is it the fear of losing Thengel as a mentor?
Author's reply
I very much doubt it has anything to do with Thengel. These memories are too early and too embedded. Something Thandir did has opened up a part of Aragorn's memories that he did not know were there. I think it will be a matter of coming to terms with these memories which will be the "cure". We'll just have to wait and see what develops.
Agape4Gondor
· 23 February 2008
· Chapter 36: Being the Continuation of the Dúnadan Cousin’s Tale: And the Lost Shall Be Found
Great chapter. What a wild ride Gilhael had. A very young leech, wouldn't you say? And what a way to learn about 'war' wounds. I very much enjoyed this retelling of Gilhael's rescue.
Author's reply
Helewis is probably only about 17, very young indeed, having learned from her mother who has since died. I'm glad you enjoyed the retelling, even if it did take four chapters to do so. *grin*
Linda Hoyland
· 23 February 2008
· Chapter 36: Being the Continuation of the Dúnadan Cousin’s Tale: And the Lost Shall Be Found
The Valar must like Gilrael for him to survive such a predicament.I enjoyed this chapter.
Author's reply
Obviously! *grin* I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter, Linda. Thanks for letting know.
hanci
· 22 February 2008
· Chapter 36: Being the Continuation of the Dúnadan Cousin’s Tale: And the Lost Shall Be Found
When first seeing the character list, I was afraid the story was finished. I'm glad it still continues and want to assure you that I still read it, although without reviewing as often as Elf interrupted (thank you for answering my old reviews).
Author's reply
I know most people think that having a character list up means the story is done but in this case it isn't. Too many readers wanted a list so as to keep track of the various Rohirrim, especially with similar sounding and looking names. It was hard to keep track of who is who. I've been updating this story about every two weeks, alternating between this story and Wars of the Valar. I'm glad to see that you are still reading and enjoying this tale. Thanks for letting me know. As for the old reviews, I have no idea how I missed them. *headdesk*
Larner
· 22 February 2008
· Chapter 36: Being the Continuation of the Dúnadan Cousin’s Tale: And the Lost Shall Be Found
A well-spoken patient, at least! I can see why he didn't wish to distress most of the folk, but am glad to see the smith was experienced enough both to know and to accept the truth, as well as sensitive enough to understand why Gilhael had lied.
Author's reply
Beornhard is nobody's fool in that regard. Gilhael, I think, has been the victim of enough injuries in his life as a Ranger that he's learned to be as pleasant a patient as possible, knowing he's more likely to get better treatment that way. heh! And of course Helewis is young and comely and he just can't resist playing the romantic.
Linda Hoyland
· 18 February 2008
· Chapter 35: Being the Second Part of the Elves' Tale: Hunting the Lost
I would not like to get on the wrong side of Thandir. I feel soory for Elrohir!
Theoden was delightful in this chapter.
Author's reply
No, Thandir isn't someone you want to get on the wrong side of. Elrohir has his problems but I think he'll be okay. Théoden is always a delight.
Caddy de La Bris
· 9 February 2008
· Chapter 35: Being the Second Part of the Elves' Tale: Hunting the Lost
Dear Fiondil,
great chapter.
But that was the best:
Upon entering Aran Gil-galad’s court and seeing Thandir standing in attendance beside Lord Celeborn, Glorfindel smiled so brilliantly, his joy so completely unadulterated, that Thandir did not know where to look and felt unaccountably ashamed. He only looked up when he felt Glorfindel take him into his arms and give him the kiss of one kinsman to another.
"I’m glad to see a familiar face, Cousin," the golden-haired ellon whispered to him. Then he stepped back, giving him a searching look. "Art thou mine enemy?" he said unexpectedly, asking the question he had asked Thandir all those centuries past when neither knew if they would survive the frozen hell which they were crossing.
Thandir shook his head and then did the only thing he could think of: he knelt before this Reborn ellon, offering Glorfindel his knife. "If thou seest an enemy before thee, lord, let him be slain," he whispered the words he had said all those long yéni ago. "Yet if in thy heart thou seest a friend, let this knife be witness to our pledge of amity."
For a long moment Glorfindel did not move and Thandir was acutely aware of Gil-galad’s court looking on with undisguised curiosity at the tableau before them. Then Glorfindel took the knife from Thandir’s hands and with a single motion sliced his palm before returning the knife to its owner. Without breaking eye contact with Glorfindel, Thandir sliced his own palm and then they joined hands.
"Let the Valar be our witnesses that in the mingling of our blood I see naught but a friend before me," Glorfindel intoned softly, a gentle smile on his face.
"As do I," Thandir said, repeating the same words he had spoken under the silent regard of the shimmering curtains of light that were ever present in their trek across the Ice. Then Glorfindel pulled him up into a tight embrace again and Thandir wept....
I like this story, I really do...
But I like it best if I can get a glimpse of my favourit elf and his connection to others. I even tried to find Thandir in "Elf Interrupted".
And Theoden is really sweet - I wonder if he ever think of Thorongil when he meets Aragorn.
And I do hesitate - but when will be there a glimpse of Elf Interrupted II?
Have a wonderful day - or night - where ever your are.
Caddy
Author's reply
Well, you won't get a glimpse of Thandir in Elf, Interrupte because Thandir is still in Middle-earth, and the only way you would see him in that story would be if either Glorfindel or Finrod or Laurendil have a flashback.
At any rate I'm glad you're enjoying this story. Théoden is indeed sweet, as m ost ten-year-old boy are and I think he realized who Aragorn used to be when they finally met again in his old age, though we never see that in the book (PJ does have him recognize him in the movie, which always made sense to me).
As for EI2.... the first chapter will be up by Palm Sunday. I promise. *grin*
colbysgurl
· 8 February 2008
· Chapter 2: Running the Gauntlet
I was wondering if you were going to mention the fact that Aragorn was trained by the elves...:D Another great chapter.
Author's reply
In this version of events, he doesn't deny his elvish training but as you can see he hides the real reason for it. Glad you liked the chapter. Thanks for reading and reviewing.
colbysgurl
· 8 February 2008
· Chapter 1: Arrival in Edoras
wow...thirty six chapters, huh? well, I do like how you've laid out the background of the characters in the king's court. so, I'm assuming that Aragorn still doesn't want anyone to know his true identity? that's why he was making his cousin run?
Author's reply
Thirty-six chapters and counting... Don't be fooled by the Character List... several people asked for one so as to keep the different characters straight, especially the Rohirrim because their names are very similar sounding and it's easy to mix them up. If and when new characters show up I add to the list. And yes, that's why Aragorn makes Gilhael run, trying to get him out of the habit of addressing him as "my lord".
Larner
· 8 February 2008
· Chapter 35: Being the Second Part of the Elves' Tale: Hunting the Lost
And, of course in English it sounds almost like "Ash Can village," which is also apropos.
Ah, our twins--so close to one another, even when disgruntled!
And we finally learn where Gilhael got off to.
Author's reply
And, of course in English it sounds almost like "Ash Can village"....
Doesn't it though? You gotta love it. *LOL*
And yes, I think we will finally hear the conclusion to this little escapade and then we can get on with the story.
Rhyselle
· 8 February 2008
· Chapter 35: Being the Second Part of the Elves' Tale: Hunting the Lost
Don't have time for a long review today, but I had to say that young Theoden just stole my heart--and the show!--with his hero-worship of Thandir. *grin*
I liked the differences between Elrohir and Elladan's reactions to the fight against the orcs. It's nice to see them portrayed as the different people that they are, not carbon copies in speech, emotions, and reactions.
And I admit it was amusing to see Thengel relegate the report of just what had happened to the level of "entertainment". *grin*
Well done!
Author's reply
Yes, Théoden is cute with Thandir, isn't he? *grin* People make the mistake of thinking that just because Elladan and Elrohir are twins they necessarily have the same or similar personalities. I see Elrohir as being more emotional than Elladan and reacts to things differently. Elladan is suffering no less than he, but he handles it in other ways than Elrohir, which makes sense, since he's not a carbon copy of his brother. But then, being a twin yourself, you know all this. *grin*
As for Thengel relegating the report of what happened in the Westmark to "entertainment"... well, it's Yule after all and they need something with which to amuse themselves. *grin*
Shoshana_Rose
· 7 February 2008
· Chapter 35: Being the Second Part of the Elves' Tale: Hunting the Lost
Another fine installment! I enjoyed Theoden's interaction with Elrohir, as well as your characterization of that particular elf in this chapter. Very unique in the fandom, I think.
Out of curiosity, what fate(s) do you think the sons of Elrond chose for themsleves?
Cheers,
Shoshi
Author's reply
Thanks, Shosi. I'm glad you liked this chapter and my characterization of Elrohir, whom I see as the more (openly) sensitive twin. As for their fates... I know some people think that history will repeat itself and the twins will part, one of them opting for mortality. Personally, I prefer to see them both following Elrond to the Undying Lands. Truly, there is nothing for either of them in Middle-earth after their sister leaves the Circles of Arda, so I really can't see either one of them remaining in Middle-earth. But then, I'm a hopeless romantic that way. *grin*
obsidianj
· 28 January 2008
· Chapter 33: The Dúnadan’s Cousin’s Tale
Every once in a while we need a reminder that Argorn in this tale is still a very young man. I loved the double meaning of his exchange with his cousin. And I wouldn't put it past him to act just the same. The elves obviously are convinced he would do it. So, Aragorn's outrage is a bit hypocritical.
Author's reply
Well, as you say, Aragorn is still young. Do you remember how young you were at taht age (assuming of course you're NOT that age *LOL*)? The double entendre was fun to write knowing that the Rohirrim would have no clue. Glad you enjoyed this chapter.
Shoshana
· 25 January 2008
· Chapter 34: Being the First Part of the Elves’ Tale: The Meeting of Friends, the Death of Enemies
Your descriptions of how these particular elves would fight the Dunlendings and the Orcs rings very true.
I especially liked how you showed the interaction among the elves. The Elrondionnath (nice term, btw) have a *more* equal, sure footing among these superior elves than does Aragorn (naturally) but it is interesting that you show Thandir putting them off (about himself) as he did the edain in the story. Thandir seems to fade into mystery even for Elrohir and Elladan, who conjecture about his exalted status among the Firstborn, but receive no direct confirmation here. He also feels much older than the Elrondionnath in the aftermath of the battle, as he brings them out of their altered states. Interesting Intra-species interaction! I like how you have such a variegated depiction of each of the races involved in your stories: elves, men, valar, etc.
The interjections from the peanut gallery were amusing, and perhaps less distracting in this chapter than the previous. You're really getting the hang of the Chaucer style here!
Great work! Can't wait to read more.
Author's reply
Thanks, Soshi. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter and that you find the depictions of the elves believeable. Writing about non-humans is difficult when you're not one of them. *grin* Thandir's past is well shrouded in mystery, for he is one of the few Exilic Noldor still in Middle-earth at this time and his family is, shall we say, well connected. Perhaps someday we'll find out more about him.
And perhaps the interjections from the peanut gallery (love that term, btw *grin*) is less distracting here because the Mortals (except for one) are not too sanguine about interrupting one of the Firstborn as they would be if it were one of their own speaking.
The continuation of the elves' tale and what happened to Gilhael will be forthcoming.
Linda Hoyland
· 24 January 2008
· Chapter 34: Being the First Part of the Elves’ Tale: The Meeting of Friends, the Death of Enemies
Thandir seems to have more to him than meets the eye.He is quite a scary character!It is amazing Aragorn grew up so well balanced amidst such "superior"" Elves! Gripping as ever.
Author's reply
Yes, Thandir has hidden depths to him and scary doesn't begin to cover it. *grin* And who said Aragorn was well balanced? How many identities does he end up with by the time he becomes king? LOL Glad you liked this, Linda. Thanks for reviewing.
Rhyselle
· 23 January 2008
· Chapter 34: Being the First Part of the Elves’ Tale: The Meeting of Friends, the Death of Enemies
The last chapter title and this one made me think of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. :)
Aragorn has a mouth with a death wish at this time in his life! It's amazing that this part of the tale was even finished thanks to all of his interruptions and the digressions he triggered. (Very INTERESTING digressions, though!)
Elladan and Elrohir are in lots of trouble for abandoning their initial mission, I'm sure... but I get the feeling that if they hadn't followed their hunch, everyone might find cause to regret that in the future.
Thrandir is an even more interesting character in this story than he was in "Elladan and Elrohir's Grand Adventure." A lot more scary, as well, but after finding out more about the loss of his wife and just how old he really is and what other griefs may be in his past, that is understandable. I most certainly want him on MY side in a fight!
Thirteen to one odds... that sounds about right. I think that it is easy to forget that besides being beautiful, ethereal people, who are immortal and wise, that immortality also means that they have had the time to learn to be amazing warriors. And I very much liked it that you clearly pointed out that the elvish mores about "right action" in battle are NOT the same as mortal Men's. These are beings of a different species, a different mindset, and a different culture that men really cannot understand entirely--not even Aragorn, even though he grew up surrounded by it in Imladris.
Excellent chapter! I look forward to seeing just what happened to Gilhael when he went into the river.
Author's reply
The last chapter title and this one made me think of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales.
Deliberately so. *grin*
I'm sure Elrond and Círdan will be wroth with the twins for about five minutes and then they will agree that they were correct to follow their instincts.
Aragorn is still young enough that he wears his emotions on his sleeve and he's not above going into "younger sibling in teasing" mode with the elves.
I think in Thandir's case you are seeing him as he is among Mortals rather than among his own people. Or rather, we are seeing him as he always is but against the backdrop of the mortals around him and so his actions, motivatons, etc. are not in sync with theirs.
As for the mores of the Elves, they wouldn't necessarily coincide with those of Mortals, so their actions in battle, especially when it's just them, will follow their own set of rules rather than those of other beings. Like I said in the warning note, Elves do not fight pretty, especially against orcs and those who partner with them.
Next chapter: we will find out what happened to Gilhael and wrap up this part of the storyline.