Reviews (348)

trajar mandamar · 12 August 2009 · Chapter 11: On Trust and Innocence

It pleaes me that Earnur is good for this impossible ellon.Finrod found that his friend is devious despite his youth,maybe Irmo rubbing off on him.I'm sure Finrod will be happy to get into mischief just to try the patience of his new friend,and to see if he is up to the challenge.It is always nice to see how the stories in your universe interweave.

Sitara · 11 August 2009 · Chapter 11: On Trust and Innocence

A very revealing chapter, Fiondil. For the past two chapters, I've been trying to swallow a question that all but danced on the tip of my tongue: Has Aulë had enough of sulking in a corner, for all his heart's content? To tell you the truth, badmouthing Aulë is not something I would enjoy; after all, Irmo and Vana would be more suited to the task, in my opinion. "wicked grin" "We worried that Aulë would not be able to forgive the treachery he felt had been visited upon him." Correct. This is stated in HoMe1, as far as I know, and maybe in other places as well. Now, I've to ask in my stupidity, if the Noldor were free to go and hang themselves in the search of...a better life, to put in this way, why then the (overly)hard feelings? If I had the right to leave and do whatever I think best, as the Powers said, would be the fact that I've actually left called treachery against the Valar? And on top of that, holding grudges against persons who did nothing akin to "treachery", no less. Noldor who stayed behind. Judging all of them on the basis of what only a part of them had done? "raising eyebrows" I'm not taking lightly what happened to Aulë and I'm afraid that Curumo's treachery has yet to happen. But you are one of the Powers, a God, who existed before the making of Arda. A pure spirit. This is how you're supposed to act, I wonder? I suppose this could go on for a long time, so I'd better stop now. All in all, Finrod's apprenticeship might have a good influence on Aulë and I guess that's better than nothing. Huh, perhaps Finrod will have the same effect on all the Valar? Starting with some changes in the Reborn's schooling schedule?..

Tari · 10 August 2009 · Chapter 11: On Trust and Innocence

So Finrod is going to learn how to weave baskets. I shouldn’t laugh because it will help loosen up his fingers, making them more dexterous. This is very important. However, I can’t help myself, it’s just too funny. Poor Finrod. ROFL.

Larner · 10 August 2009 · Chapter 11: On Trust and Innocence

Ah--one needs manual dexterity to do well with a forge, and now he must regain that skill. And I love the idea of Vana disapperating while dancing along the shoreline of the lake! Heh!

6336 · 10 August 2009 · Chapter 11: On Trust and Innocence

Ah, I wondered when the basket weaving was going to make an appearance, good choice, manual dexterity coupled with fine motor control, not the same thing I think? Has to be frustrating to be treated like elflings when you are centuries older than your instructors, but I expect Irmo and Este and Namo are still feeling their way with the reborn to some extent themselves, trial and error is not the best way, but some times, it is the only way. Good chapter, more please, Lynda

Radbooks · 10 August 2009 · Chapter 11: On Trust and Innocence

I imagine it would have been very confusing for the elves of Aman to try and figure out the names of the reborn/returning elves - it's always hard for me to remember them. :) Weaving baskets would definitely help with fine motor skills, but it is a funny image to have of this great warrior king - I remember in E.I. them talking about him learning to do that just as Glorfindel made jewelry (I think!) Enjoyable chapter!

Sitara · 6 August 2009 · Chapter 10: A New Friend

Back to the "Arabian Nights", aren't we? Poor Finrod, waking up only to find the palace...er, smithy gone, the smith gone as well and a few bystanders looking at him as if he'd gone mad. Not entirely pleasant, in my opinion. As for Aule..I'm still wondering whether it's more about him than was revealed so far concerning his involvement in Finrod's "education". His' and Yavanna's. There is a time for swords and a time for making horseshoes but I've to admit that I prefer the former. They will need swords again, after all. And, it looks like since Finrod couldn't go to Valmar, nothing easier than bringing Valmar to Finrod. Clever. I'm very interested in finding out what other clever things would cross Aule's mind. Apparently, he has a particular way to annoy the Feanturi (there is also the thing regarding Namo and Ingwion's ring). "smirk" As for my Dialectical Materialism classes...fortunately, I had to take only the version for preteens. Meaning, "The Party is always right. The beloved ruler is a genius." Even Morgoth would have blushed had he heard such praises. "lol" Waiting for the next chapter, Sitara.

njomo · 5 August 2009 · Chapter 10: A New Friend

Hi Fiondil, I was afraid at first that Finrod might run into some ridicule for his remarks upon his awakening. It was heartening to see two elves with good heads on their shoulders (finding a Maia to help) and to see a Maia who actually takes Finrod seriously. Yes, that was very devious of Aulë. I confess I thought maybe he added an "extra room" to the stable. Never thought of the possibility of what he realy did! It seems Finrod and Eärnur are off to a good start, although you hint at some rocky places ahead for them. Finrod needs and is deserving of a good friend. And if that friend can keep him out of trouble, so much the better. But I think that Finrod will give Eärnur a run for his money! Thanks Fiondil! Joanne

Tari · 5 August 2009 · Chapter 10: A New Friend

A new friend for Finrod? Eärnur seems like he'd be a good one, but who knows. I just knew Aule was involved with the smithy business, the rascal. The Valar are having too much fun at the expense of the firstborn.

Larner · 4 August 2009 · Chapter 10: A New Friend

This sounds decidedly more promising than the last counselor. And trust a Vala to twist reality a bit.... Heh!

Kitty · 4 August 2009 · Chapter 10: A New Friend

Poor Finrod! To wake up and find the smithy gone had to be quite confusing for him, particularly back then when he was newly released and not used to the way the Valar rearrange the environment if they need to. Eärnur thought he'd be released from his apprenticeship? Somehow I get the feeling he didn't get on with Meneldil terribly well even back then ... Well, things change very slowly in Aman, but in the end, they will. "Try to keep you out of trouble, and if I can’t, try to minimize the damage," *LOL* Eärnur has taken on a lot more than he can handle ;) But I am sure these two will get along very well from the beginning.

Radbooks · 4 August 2009 · Chapter 10: A New Friend

Another wonderful chapter - as always! Poor Earnur, thinking he was going to be dismissed from the program and instead he was being promoted. :)

6336 · 4 August 2009 · Chapter 10: A New Friend

I think Eanur is just what Finderato needs, a friend and not a counselor, some one to watch his back and help pick up the pieces when things go awry! More please, Lynda

Agape4Gondor · 4 August 2009 · Chapter 10: A New Friend

I do like Earnur from your other tale. It's good to see him and the beginning of their friendship. Nice chapter.... calmer. *giggles*

Agape4Gondor · 1 August 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

Oh my! What a great chapter. Of course, I was ready the thwack Miriel side of the head - and I'm glad Finrod told her off. I wasn't particularly happy that he apologized - but he is better than I. I loved the Aule part - excellent. *deep sigh of contentment*

njomo · 1 August 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

Hi Fiondil, This is quite an adventure for Finrod. I knew something was up--how can that not be so when three of the Valar are plotting together! As soon as Námo suggested Irmo talk with Aulë and Yavanna, something interesting was bound to happen. It's understandable to me that Finrod was bewildered and a bit afraid at the last when he was working with Malantur. After all, in spite of his past, Finrod is still newly reborn. Also I think that Malantur is working with Finrod at the forge and you say that Finrod was "aware only of his own fear, the sense of being trapped with no escape rising with every hammer stroke" that that was most likely how he felt as a prisoner before he died, so it's no wonder as a reborn that he felt fearful in this situation. The scene with Míriel and Finrod had me chuckling. "[Finrod] glared at her, trying to remember how he must have been when he was a king." Knowing he was a king is one thing; acting like it is something else. For some reason, when Irmo said to Finrod"...you need to understand this: you think you know what is best for you at this time, but you do not. I’ve been at this far longer than you..." I had to laugh. And Finrod did have the wherewithal to recognize the truth of Irmo's words, even though he didn't really want to admit it. Thanks for this...quite an interesting chapter. Now to find out how Finrod fares at first with Eärnur--or whatever you have in store for us next! Joanne

Tari · 31 July 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

Aule had Findrod worried for a bit. But, if Findrod had thought about it, who else but a Vala could make a bellows move by itself. That must have been a funny sight to see. I wonder if any other Valar were watching. I think Muriel needs an attitude adjustment.

6336 · 31 July 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

Poor Finrod, he does seem to have a problem with managing women, look at his future Mother-in-law! I am glad Amarie seems to take more after her Atto than her Amme. Finrod did need to apologise to Mirel, but I do dislike it when people do not know when to stop! So he has found his way to the stables and Aule, so how come he is making horseshoes and not his Serig-e Higil? (sp?) While you have been having internet woes I have been having computer woes, my poor 6 year old Toshie' has finally gone to that great recycling bin in the sky and I now have a brand new HP with Vista, which so far seems to be O.K. Though it did try to tell me that one of your review replies was junk mail! I have told it, very firmly, that they are not, so your replys are safe! More please, Lynda

Sitara · 31 July 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

Well, what is this? The heir of the ruling High King of the Noldor skiving off classes? That wouldn’t do, from my point of view. Although I’ve to ask myself whether is more about my own envy for never being able to choose my classes in my own schooldays. And Art doesn’t sound half as bad to me. It could have been Dialectical Materialism, as I had to have, you know. “bursting out with laughter” As for Miriel…as one who found herself fighting for each of the sides, in a manner of speaking, I should be able to understand her, which I really do. Unfortunately, as in an old Arabian tale, I’ve to give right to everyone. Ugh. " You were not running away from something but running towards something. My fellow Valar and I understood that, even if you did not, and let you go …. Before, you had a goal: to carve out a kingdom for yourself and to explore new lands.” Huh…Veritas filia temporis est…Well, I suppose a bit of creative editing wouldn’t kill anyone, would it, Irmo? Very surprising for me Aule’s appearance, I admit. I’ve also to admit that I’m very interested to be privy to the future interaction between Aule and Finrod. Until then…was Aule’s dwelling nearby or did he borrow some of his fellow Vala’s facilities? Thank you for your overly patient answers to all my comments and don’t worry for any delay. Eagerly awaiting for the next installment, Sitara.

Rhyselle · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

*sings* Under the spreading chestnut tree, the village smithy stands...*stops singing* I really enjoyed this chapter very much. I wanted to strangle Meriel. She reminds me of a nurse at Hershey Medical Center when my handicapped son was there for treatment. She was technically an excellent nurse but she just was the worst person I ever met for bad bedside manner! I admit that I suspected who the smith was going to end up being from the beginning of that scene when he calls for Finrod to come all the way in instead of lurking in the door, although I can't really explain why. I loved the description in this scene. I could feel the heat and the sweat and the exhaustion of doing heavy, but rewarding labor; and when Aule called Finrod to him and put the hammer in his hand, I just got goosebumps. :) This was an excellent installment on an excellent fic. Thanks so much for sharing these tales with us. It really brightens my day when I see the notice in my email box that a new one has been posted!

Sunny · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

I can sympathize with Finrod over Míriel’s behaviour. And her reaction to Finrod’s apology – however grudging it was – was just horrible. Hopefully Finrod will get along better with Eärnur. (Actually, that wouldn’t take much at all!). And I suppose work in the smithy was more interesting than whatever art-related activity the Loriennildi considered appropriate. Aulë’s “disguise" was nicely sneaky. ;-)

Tari · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

Well done Finrod. He, very diplomatically, broke the ice and put the other reborn as ease probably without even realizing that’s what he was doing. He will make a great leader if that is his fate.

Erulisse · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

Under a spreading chestnut tree The village smithy stands; I like it. Lord Aule has always been one of my favorite Valar, perhaps because I also am a maker. He doesn't get a lot of press in the current era, only in the times before when he taught Feanor and his ilk, leading to the creation of the Silmarils. I suppose this is your own way of beating swords into plows, and it is a good lesson for the times :-)

Kaylee Arafinwiel · 28 July 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

Malantur, indeed! Instead he proves to be the Worldsmith...getting ideas from his Elder Brother, was he? (Yaravinyon, anyone? *snicker*) I have to say, I love Aule's disguise! It's quite clever! :) Actually, I just love Aule, he's a wonderful Vala. I feel quite sorry for him, having several of his followers go bad, not to mention undergoing his own temptation (not that Yavanna was much better as she immediately demanded protection for her olvar, but I'm getting *way* off topic...*ahem*) Anyway, Aule's followers included Sauron, Saruman and Feanor; let's hope this time he gets lucky with Feanor's nephew. *grin* I can't wait to see what plans Finda has to confound his new Master. (Funnily enough, I co-wrote an AU fic with my best friend recently; what if Thranduil died rather than Oropher...and I had Thrani, once released from Lorien, apprentice to his OC great-uncle, who was a potter. Caeven reminds me a lot of Malantur here. *grin*) Tye-melin Atar Fiondil! Kaylee

Kaylee Arafinwiel · 28 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

"So... er... Finrod," he said hesitantly, "how do you like Lòrien so far?" Finrod put down his fork and gazed around at the Elves who had stopped to hear his reply and sighed. "I think I would prefer being back in Mandos giving Lord Námo grief." There was a brief pause and then Brethorn laughed, clapping Finrod on the back. "Wouldn’t we all," he said and soon everyone else joined him in laughter. The Maiar who happened to be stationed there in case any of the Reborn needed assistance or, more likely, reminders of proper behavior, grinned at one another. *is grinning too, despite sunburn I got myself in Santa Cruz yesterday* This was my most favorite part, Atar Fiondil! :) I don't think the Lord of Mandos would want his best beloved elfling back in Mandos giving him grief, though. Tye-melin! Kaylee