Reviews (348)

hawkeye · 4 August 2014 · Chapter 37: The Final Summons

Dear Fiondil, I am so sorry to see this story end. It has been a joy to read, and words can not express how it has lightened my heart over the past weeks. And, while I look forward to reading many more of your stories, this one will hold a special place for me and I am sure I will return to it many times over. You have a wonderful ability to write. Your characters are unique and well rounded, as well as being very true to the sprit of Tolkien's own work. I have so enjoyed sharing in their journeys, struggles and even sorrows, and the opportunity to learn with and from them. You have introduced me to characters and aspects of Tolkien's world that I never imagined. Thank you for writing this story, and more than that for sharing it with us. I can sincerely say this is one of the best Tolkien fan fiction pieces I have ever read. He's coming! See you in Elf, Interrupted ;) ~Hawkeye

hawkeye · 4 August 2014 · Chapter 36: Lady Amarië Returns

Even the High King's court has talebearers! At least Arafinwë and Finrod are starting to fall in step with each other I think. I'm glad Finrod is wearing warrior braids and he stood his ground about it. His Atar's response was also telling. Seeing Arafinwë support his son was good too. Oh, and I can see Arafinwë getting all excited over fixing the receiving room for Finrod's court. If it happened that fast, he was probably planning it for a while and just waiting for the right moment to put his plan into action. It's an endearing thought, regardless. You would think that Amarië had learned her lesson, but apparently not *exasperated sigh* Whatever he might have been like before, she didn't need to be so rude. And I agree with Rúmilion, Finrod deserves better. I'm looking forward to seeing how things resolve themselves in your other story. Thanks, Fiondil :)

hawkeye · 3 August 2014 · Chapter 35: Holding Court

I thought Finrod's explanation of how he got to the dining room was perfectly informative, I don't know why Arafinwë had a problem with it *cheeky grin* I'm trying to visualize what Arafinwë's unreadable expression looks like. Poor elleth. I felt really bad for her. Wow, Arafinwë is really letting Finrod run his own court. It seems like a big jump from how protective he was before (not that it was bad, in fact it was probably the right thing to do). I have to confess that when he said that and then actually followed through with it, I wanted to hug him. On a more serious note, seeing Finrod sitting in judgement was really interesting. He's fears are justified, but that's what makes him so good at what he does. And you included warrior braids!!! I also really liked how you showed Finrod's character through his interactions with Ondoher. What a crazy first case though. And now I'm really curious what kind of stuffed toy Finrod has ;) Thank you, Fiondil, for another very entertaining chapter.

hawkeye · 2 August 2014 · Chapter 34: Summons

Glorfindel is still creating mayhem! Good for him. As much as they pretend to the contrary, I think the Valar and Maiar enjoy it. It keeps things interesting, if nothing else. I was surprised by Arafinwë's reticence in greeting his son. He suspects, I think. I had the thought reading this that Arafinwë might be more hurt than he lets on, especially given Eärnur's insight about how long he and Eärwen had to wait for Finrod to be reborn. Námo is a fascinating character. I'm beginning to like him way more than I ever thought I would. It seems there's a lot more to him than just the Doomsman of the Valar :)

hawkeye · 2 August 2014 · Chapter 33: Beneath a Star-strewn Ocean

Eärnur's ability to draw Finrod out never ceases to amaze me. Up until now, it's almost felt that Eärnur is the elder and leader of the two and so far he seems to usually set the pace. But in this chapter, I like how Finrod seemed to even things a little. Now Eärnur is learning from him as well as he is learning from Eärnur. Lord Irmo was smart to send them off on that trip :) Speaking of Lord Irmo and Lady Estë, I liked the story of how Eärnur found the cove. Eärnur may not be the child of the Noldorán, but he still is cared for just as much. Thanks for a fun chapter, Fiondil!

hawkeye · 2 August 2014 · Chapter 32: Haunting the Gates

Eärnur is my hero. He will be an amazing healer. Amazingly he didn't seem to take offense at Finrod's real motives here, which shows a real strength of character. He is a wonderful friend, especially at the end of the chapter. In some ways I almost got the impression that he still feels responsible for his first Reborn. '"Come back to Lórien with me,” he pleaded.' I really like that Lord Irmo didn't just order Finrod around here. The idea that a Vala would plead with an elf to do the right thing, but not necessarily force shows a lot of love on Irmo's part. It's also, I think, a wonderful illustration of life. Thanks for a lovely read!

hawkeye · 2 August 2014 · Chapter 31: Seeking Glorfindel

He's finally going :) But I'm not as happy as I thought I'd be, and I get the impression that Finrod isn't either. I also wonder if Arafinwë guessed there was more to it than Finrod was telling him, which I'm sure was hurtful. Hopefully their relationship hasn't been irreparably damaged. On the other hand, I can see Finrod's frustration by his parent's cautiousness and the escorts. I think Finrod knows he's not being entirely honest. As much as I'm looking forward to seeing more Maiar and Lord Irmo, I hope there isn't fallout for it. Eärnur worries me too. I think he could potentially get hurt and made to feel like he's just a convenient excuse. Interesting that Finrod didn't check the door, though I agree. He's probably being watched :) I can't wait to keep reading. Thanks for writing! :)

hawkeye · 2 August 2014 · Chapter 30: The New Year Ball

I had a feeling something would go wrong. It seems like Finrod can't get through an event without some sort of embarrassing event. I think what makes me really sad here though isn't so much the event or the memory, it's how other people perceive it. So much of history really isn't "funny," or something to be trivialized, but we write it off as not a big deal. What Finrod was experiencing was a situation like that. It's not trivial, it's very real and desperately sad. Yet, the court will likely not see it that way. It will be just another reason to laugh at someone who really shouldn't be laughed at. At any rate, poor Finrod will need lots of love to come out of this one, I fear. Maybe the Valar can give him therapy :) Okay 'the Order of the Prince's Courtesy' Arafinwë, really? I can't fault Finrod for being upset about this one. I think I would have died of embarrassment right on the spot (in fact, I'm pretty sure I did ;). But again, nice saves on Herendil's part :) Despite an extreme case secondhand embarrassment, I really enjoyed this chapter :D You are an amazing writer. Thanks for sharing with us!

hawkeye · 1 August 2014 · Chapter 29: Presentation of the Heir

Finrod is making friends! I can imagine his escorting just about any elleth would result in a huge fuss, poor dear... not to mention Amarië's reaction. Still, it is a hard thing to not even be able to have a nice dance without political ramifications. Once again I'm loving Herendil. That was nice work simply being able to step into that part of the ceremony without having to practice. So he's finally starting to take over some parts of his life too :) I'm sure he was the envy of the other ellyn. It's about time too ;) I loved that he made the oath his own. Hopefully his Atar appreciated it too. I was a bit on edge, afraid someone was going to ridicule him or make a fuss. I'm glad they didn't. Now for the Ball...

hawkeye · 1 August 2014 · Chapter 28: Invitation to a Wedding

Oh my goodness Celeborn was in here. You have no idea how happy that made me. And I have to congratulate Herendil again. He's doing a wonderful job making Finrod feel like a real person, I think. I can understand Finrod not liking people going through his things. Who does? Poor ellon. It looks like there might be more friends in the future :) That will be even better for Finrod. I liked the wedding commentary. Arafinwë's concern for Galadriel was sweet. He obviously loves his children a lot. It must have been heartbreaking to lose all of them. I'm glad someone else is starting to stand up for Finrod. He needs it :)

hawkeye · 1 August 2014 · Chapter 27: Herendil

Herendil deserves a medal for making Finrod laugh. I hope they can become good friends and Herendil can help Finrod navigate the court waters a bit. I really like that he seems willing to accept Finrod without judgment. And maybe that will help when his own son returns from Mandos as well. Finrod's attempt to comfort Herendil and Alundil was beautiful. In spite of his nervousness he did quite well. Herendil will be good for Finrod, and I can see why you like him so much. I like him as well. Maybe there will come a time when he can trade war stories with Alundil. It might even be good for Herendil, and even Arafinwë and Eärwen, to hear some of their experiences. Arafinwë's keeping a close rein on Finrod rankled a bit. It's completely understandable, but I feel sorry for Finrod always being treated as an elfling. On a side note, you do a wonderful job giving depth to your characters. They're not only relatable, they feel real and genuine. Is a Manwendur the same as a Lóriennildo? Is that something like a child who has been dedicated to spend their life in holy orders? (Sorry for the odd question. I'm a bit confused.) I'll go continue cheering Herendil and Finrod on :P Thanks for writing!

hawkeye · 1 August 2014 · Chapter 26: Petitions and Apologies

Nice work, Herendil! There's definitely more to him than meets the eye, I think. Maybe he can be the friend that Finrod needs. I'm sad that Eärnur is gone, but I suppose I can't grudge him his studies too much. Perhaps because of his history with Finrod, it helps him take less nonsense with him. Either way I was really happy to see him again. Interesting insight into Arafinwë's court. Finrod could probably learn a lot from his Atar, despite his previous experience in Nargothrond. But the same could probably be said for Arafinwë, especially once Finrod matures a bit more. Yay for taking over Atar's court. The father son teasing was fun too. Thanks for a fun and surprising chapter :) I'm looking forward to more Herendil :)

hawkeye · 31 July 2014 · Chapter 25: Recuperation

I have to say I'm really impressed with Arafinwë in this chapter. If I were Finrod, I would have been intimidated by him. But either way, I like that he's willing to be the father that Finrod needs and not just a friend. Poor Finrod though. I can see why he's so depressed. Unfortunately his choices haven't helped. I like how his parents are at least trying to show that they love him, not just saying it. Hopefully he doesn't get in too much trouble. Arafinwë's insights are interesting. I'm going to have to check out your other story about him. I love him as a character, so I can't wait to read it. Okay, when the 'help' arrived I just about threw a party. This is exactly what Finrod needs and I love how you pulled him back into the story. Vardamir is fascinating. I'm curious, was he named after Varda? I don't know much elvish (yet). I enjoyed his interaction with Arafinwë. They seem like good friends. All in all, it's good to see Finrod back him. Here's hoping he cheers up soon and things start looking brighter for the poor ellon. Thanks for another lovely read :)

hawkeye · 31 July 2014 · Chapter 24: Into the Mountains

The image of the Valar out on the balcony watching the drama made me laugh. I half expected someone to have a bowl of popcorn. Regardless I really enjoyed the commentary. I like how he was able to impress them. I wonder Who sent the bear... Poor Finrod is probably in for it now. It was so nice to see him happy the first part of his time. His happiness was infectious, and I think it actually made me happy too. I hope in the future Finrod is able to return to the mountains. I think they're good for him, though I am biased. I adore trees and mountains. And who knows, maybe he should do some exploring of his own :) My heart went out to Arafinwë and Eärwen though. Perhaps asking for some time alone in the mountains to think things through would have been better. Not that they would have allowed it. But still. Anyway, I'm really enjoying your story. I guess I'm reading out of order. It seemed to be the first in chronological order, which is why I chose it. But it looks like I didn't even manage there. I guess I'll just have to read again :D

hawkeye · 31 July 2014 · Chapter 23: A Prince in Flight

Wow, this is an interesting turn of events. Finrod is quite clever, and here I think he shows quit a bit of cunning as well. I suppose that's another side effect of raising an 'elfling' with adult faculties :) I'm surprised and on the other hand, not surprised. In his defense, I think most other ellyn wound have done this a while ago. But then again, I'm reminded of the saying 'with great power comes great responsibility.' If he's going to become a great leader (again), it's probably not going to be an easy road. But, he has been through a lot, and I can't fault him for reaching his crisis point. Although it seems like he wasn't very considerate of his parents. It will be interesting to see where this all goes down.

hawkeye · 30 July 2014 · Chapter 22: Confrontation

I really felt sad for Finrod in this chapter. Unfortunately I think it's going to take him a while to prove himself to everyone. The sad thing is, he shouldn't have to. But unfortunately that's how people are. I'm definitely going to have to check out your other related stories :) And I confess, I have peeked ahead a bit. But I shall endeavor to restrain my curiosity and read one thing at a time... Or at least review ;) I'm glad that Lord Námo showed up. That's hopefully comforting for Finrod, since he seems to be moving from one difficult situation to another. I'm glad he was able to bond with his atar though. Maybe having some duties as heir will gain him som respect. I really enjoyed the chapter! Thanks for writing :)

hawkeye · 30 July 2014 · Chapter 21: Hunting

I have a new favorite character if possible. Lord Oromë was fantastic. I love how even this mighty hunter was still able to calm Finrod and center him. One thing that I'm really enjoying is how "good" the Valar are. It sounds odd, but my reading experience outside of Tolkien himself typically portrays them as capricious, much like the Greek deities. It's wonderful to read a story where they are not, where they are characters both interesting and worthy of love in their own right. At first I was afraid that Arafinwë was going to be upset by what happened, or perhaps the guards would react the way the courtiers have been. I think it's going to be important for Finrod to make some friends here, and of course it was lovely to see him getting to do something with his atar. On a side note I'm glad Arafinwë took Amarië to task over her behavior. Thanks for an exciting chapter :D

hawkeye · 30 July 2014 · Chapter 20: Warrior Braids

Amarië's behavior is appalling. I wanted to slap her, especially when she was so rude about the gift. I'm glad Eärwen saw it. Interesting development with the warrior braids. While I see Arafinwë's point, I can see Finrod's too. I think eventually he's going to have to come to a balance between his past and his present. The rebel in me hopes that includes warrior braids. Finrod needs hugs after that. It was especially heartbreaking to see a bit of the elfling coming out, like the shyness. The other really sad thing was that no one seems to notice him. I think everyone knows how that feels, but for Finrod it's more so. Thanks for another fun read and give Finrod a hug :)

hawkeye · 30 July 2014 · Chapter 19: Confronting the Past

How cruel even Elves can be. I am disliking Amarië more and more, which is sad because I really want to like her. But, her behavior is awful. Finrod's response to her seems a bit better though. Rialcar is creepy. I wonder what did happen to his son. He must not be dead because the Maiar haven't told the family he is in Mandos. While he must be sad, his treatment of Finrod was horrid. People do act vengefully that way though. I'm really enjoying Arafinwë. I especially appreciate that he seems willing to learn and genuinely interested in Finrod's stories. That is what bothers me so much about Amarië and to a certain extent, Eärwen. To love someone means that you love the whole person. Finrod's stories and memories are his only way to share what is likely the most significant part of his life. But Arafinwë seems to be the only one willing to share that with his son. Thanks for a fun read!

hawkeye · 30 July 2014 · Chapter 18: Home Again

"An even more urgent question — could I learn to love them all over again? Did I even want to?" Being able to clarify this question for himself is a step in the right direction, I think. I feel really bad for Finrod in this chapter. As his memories continue to return, he's also confronted by the paradox of his present emotional range and they just don't match up. I enjoyed seeing more of Finrod with Arafinwë and Eärwen in this chapter too. It's frustrating to see them just not seem to "get it," but I suppose they are probably equally as frustrated and out of their league. I also wonder what Finrod's level of maturity was when he left. He obviously wasn't an elfling, but I'm curious how much he "grew up" after leaving Aman. That alone, even if you discount dying, would have changed him a great deal from his parents perspective. I think what I'm driving at is they seem to be treating him like a child, or perhaps as the child they remember before they left and not fully grasping that, while he's their biological son, he's not the person who they remember. I think Amarië needs a bucket of ice water in the face, or her head rearranged or /something/. It's both annoying and heartbreaking to see her being so mean. I've always thought of her being this lovely person but at the moment she's acting quite the spoiled elleth. Anyway, I'm rambling. Thanks for another fun chapter :D

hawkeye · 29 July 2014 · Chapter 17: Crossing Eldamar

Hmm. Finrod has some maturing to do still, though the bit with Amarië at dinner was priceless. I'm surprised the Maiar didn't warn Finrod's parents more about what to expect. It seems like they should have had "Reborn rearing" classes first. But then again, since everyone is different, it's probably better that they find their own solutions. I have a feeling that integrating back into life is going to be harder that it seemed. Finrod is still a mix of childish and adult, though these past couple of chapters he's seemed more like an elfling. Hopefully things smooth out for him. I'm also really enjoying Arafinwë and Eärwen. They seem like they want to be good parents, especially Arafinwë. Eärwen seems accepting enough, and happy as well, but I feel like she is a bit aloof. To a lesser degree I get that from Arafinwë too. Perhaps it is just a father/son vs mother/son difference, but I hope they can warm up to each other soon. Amarië needs to grow up :) I really love how you are writing this. The characters are very unique and interesting and I'm enjoying them very much. Thanks for sharing :D

hawkeye · 29 July 2014 · Chapter 16: At the Great Gates of Return

Well we know where he's going now! How sad to not recognize your parents, though for them it must be heartbreaking. I've always been fascinated by Finarfin, so I'm looking forward to reading more about him. I'm not sure what to make of their welcome to Finrod though, and I wonder if Finrod is equally confused. Amarië surprised me. I'm not sure what anyone was expecting from the reunion, but she's not the only one surprised. At least Arafinwë was there to mediate. So, on to a new life :)

hawkeye · 29 July 2014 · Chapter 15: The Healing Hands of the Harpist

The knowledge that you are leaving, but not having any idea where you are going would be terrifying. Finrod's anxiety is well placed here, but he seems much more capable of handling it than he was before. I think I'd be just as rankled with someone else choosing for me, but I know Lord Irmo has their best interests at heart. Still, it would be nice to know where they are going and especially be able to tell their friends. I loved seeing Finrod's gift. I can't help but wonder if the gift from Lord Manwë did actually survive. As a musician, it is amazing how much the body remembers about playing an instrument, even after years away. For Finrod this will probably be a gift in more ways than just to heal others. Thanks for another lovely chapter!

hawkeye · 29 July 2014 · Chapter 14: Man Sad Dorthathon?

Despite all his lost feelings, I don't think Finrod is quite as lost as he thinks. The idea that his family wouldn't want him is just too heartbreaking to contemplate, so I'm hoping that rejection is not in his future. I love how he realizes that he is meant to serve his people. Despite his immaturity at times, he still is a leader and I think he will be a great leader again. Even Lord Irmo and Lord Námo have hinted at that. I'm really curious too about some of these stories of Glorfindel and Finrod in Mandos ;)

hawkeye · 29 July 2014 · Chapter 13: Glorfindel

Everyone's dismissal of the experiences of the Reborn is both sad and maddening, especially in this chapter. I was afraid that Finrod was going to get really angry with Calamírë, though it was satisfying when Ingil told her off a little. It would probably do her good to learn Sindarin. I'm a bit curious as to why people like Calamírë are working with the Reborn at all. If they look down on them so much, it seems like a lot of heartache could be avoided if others did the re-teaching. I'm sure Lord Irmo has his reasons though :) At first I thought that Finrod might turn down the opportunity to talk about things, but it does him a lot of credit that he made the right decision. It seems like he and Eärnur are getting on better. This experience will only help things.