Marethiel
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 5: Of Fell Winters, Chickens and Small Boys
What a wonderful slice of Dunadan life! I can see poor Denlad, struggling with the damn chickens, and the wonderful relationship of Dirhael and Ivorwen with Halbarad's little one. And Denlad's wonderful personality, with his chickens, with his hosts... even with a little one. It must have been odd for him; as a child himself he was treated poorly by his peers.
Poor Halbarad, too, getting such a bad rep!! LMAO
Oh, just wonderful, I'm loving this!
Marethiel
Author's reply
Thanks, Marethiel! I'm glad you got some chuckles from this chapter... poor Denlad has a time of it with Copper; it's just a good thing Red is so calm! I'm sure you're right in that all of this is a little surreal right now, being so utterly different from his former life. It's probably just as well he can look at it all at times with a sense of humor! :)
Thanks for the review!
shirebound
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 5: Of Fell Winters, Chickens and Small Boys
I'm glad Denlad has someplace to stay that's warm and loving, and where he'll eat and sleep well. What a dear young man.
Author's reply
Thank you, shirebound! I'm so glad you like my Denlad. :)
Estelcontar
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 4: Howls in the Night
Another most enjoyable chapter. I really liked your description of the struggle between the rangers and the wolf pack. It was very alive, and vivid. And I see Aragorn and Halbarad are at it again, with Halbarad in his motherly mode. It goes without saying I enjoyed these scenes very much, as I did the humour you again instilled in the Elladan and Elrohir scenes.
I'm glad the fighting is over, and the rangers are ready to go back home, and enjoy their delayed Mettarë feast. That wasn't very bad at all. I just hope you're easy on them this time, and let the poor rangers go home without further mishap to enjoy some quite, joyful and peaceful time with their families. Knowing you though, I shouldn't count much on that.
Author's reply
What, me add to Aragorn's misery? Would I do that? *looks around innocently*
Seriously, thank you for the kind review (and of course, for being my beta reader, as always... I'm not sure I officially mentioned that beyond the note of thanks on the first chapter). I'm glad you liked the hunt... it was fun to research the different ways there are of hunting wolves, and of course, once I came across the tidbit about using wolf howls to call in wolves, I knew Halbarad would gain a legendary skill. *g*
Now to let those poor Rangers go home... peacefully, yeah, that's right... peacefully... *makes note of that*
But first we have to see how Denlad's doing. Thanks again for the review!
Mirach
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 4: Howls in the Night
It was very interesting to see Aragorn in his role as a chieftain, again, this time leading his men to fight. I'm not sure who taught him strategy (Erestor or Glorfindel, probably), but he has done his job well! But no knowledge of strategy helps if one isn't a natural leader, and Aragorn is one with every ounce. Except when Halbarad is in charge of keeping him in one piece =)
Where did Halbarad learn to howl? Wow, I want to know it too! =) But I pity the wolves, they were probably hungry. But they were a danger, and there was no other possibility =( And I loved Elladan's and Elrohir's little exchange.
Oh! Aragorn is injured! I can imagine Halbarad doesn't like it in the least. But I must admit that I like a bit of Aragorn angst as a Mettare present =) And now they can go hope and celebrate! (If nothing crosses their way, that is... I dare to guess that there are yet 4 chapters left? =))
Author's reply
Thanks, Mirach! Yes, you know me .... I can't resist tossing in some owies for Aragorn, much to his dismay. And I don't know where Halbarad learned to howl... maybe his father taught him. :)
Unfortunately, sometimes wildlife gets a wee bit too wild, and these beasts had crossed that line and become far too great a threat.
And um... *counting on fingers and toes* ... 5 chapters left, and an epilogue. :)
Mirach
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 3: Teach Me to be a Warrior
I really like Dirhael! He looks like a perfect grandfather to me, I would envy Aragorn if I wouldn't have my own =))) I don't wonder that Denlad is scared of Halbarad after all the stories. I like seeing how he is beginning to become the mighty warrior that Aragorn saw in him. The moment when he learned about Aragorn's heritage had an air of significance for his whole next life. I'm sure the secret will be safe with him - he just should beware curious hobbits! :D
Author's reply
Thank you, Mirach! I think Dirhael would make a lovely grandfather... mine are all long passed now, so I may just adopt him instead. :) And yes, Denlad needs to beware curious hobbits! LOL Thanks for the review!
Ellynn
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 4: Howls in the Night
Good chapter, with good description of nature, night and fight, but my favourite part was neither of those I mentioned, but the following sentence: "He had tried to teach Aragorn, but Aragorn’s howl sounded more like the mewling of a sick pup than the ferocious ululation of a full grown beast."
*dies laughing* :)))
Author's reply
Thanks, Ellynn! I'm glad that line gave you a good laugh... I just figure Aragorn can't be good at *everything* so why not make him unable to do a wolf howl. He can still be the most wonderfully great king Middle-earth has ever seen, despite not being able to howl like Halbarad. *g*
Thanks for the review!
Silivren Tinu
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 4: Howls in the Night
Halbarad seems to have lots of hidden talents (though this specific talent of his would likely scare me to death, lol!). Poor Aragorn - having to spend Mettare hunting wolves *and* receiving a painful injury is a lot of bad luck. *hugs him* I've just decided that I would make a lousy ranger - the only thing I would be really good at is hiding behind Aragorn, keeping my eyes shut tightly, and screaming whenever I heard a howl or growl. *bg* I loved how you described the wolves and the battle scenes in this chapter, it was creeeepy! ;-)
Author's reply
Thanks, Almut! I have to say, Halbarad's howling would probably raise the hair on my neck, too! And while I probably wouldn't cower behind Aragorn screaming, I definitely have no desire to be a Ranger. *shiver* It'd be hard, wouldn't it?? Glad you liked this... and were creeped out. *g* Thanks again for the review!
Vilwarin
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 4: Howls in the Night
Pheow, and ouch. A dislocated shoulder is very nasty and long in the healing. I fear that he might have to be confined to home for longer than he wishes.
I loved the bit about Halbarad howling. ;)
Author's reply
Thanks, Vilwarin... yes, Aragorn's going to be stiff and sore for quite a long while. So lots of opportunity to get to know Denlad and sit around eating Ivorwen's good cooking, when he does finally get home.
Glad you liked Halbarad's howls! Thanks for the review!
Elentarri
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 4: Howls in the Night
Brilliant.
Author's reply
Thank you! :)
shirebound
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 4: Howls in the Night
That was very suspenseful. I hope Aragorn can rest and recuperate back with his family.
Author's reply
Thanks, shirebound! I'm glad you found that chapter exciting... and I think Aragorn would definitely agree with your hopes. I *know* Halbarad does! Thanks again for the review. :)
Ainu Laire
· 20 December 2009
· Chapter 4: Howls in the Night
I've been following this story, and yes, I fail at reviewing. I do, however, really like it! It is interesting to see Denlad when he is still newly come to the Dunedain- I will be happy to see Aragorn give him the gifts, though I am not sure if he would be happy to do it publically, hehe. I wonder how soon he realized that Dirhael was Aragorn's grandfather and that may have been part of the reason for the Chieftain's deference towards him :P
Also, I just had to note that wow! Aragorn only got out with a couple scratches and a dislocated arm? That's unusually light xD Of course, I may have spoken too soon and I'm only Tempting Fate...
Have I ever mentioned how awesome your Halbarad is?
Yep. As usual, very much enjoying myself. I do hope your story ideas are not drained for a long time...
Author's reply
Thanks, Laire! I'm glad you've been "lurking" along, following this. You know, I don't think that Denlad really knows who's related to who yet... I think he's still at this point just trying to learn people's names. LOL I think, like it's been my own experience joining up with new groups, that it just never occurs to people to say, "I'm so-and-so cousin/aunt/uncle/grandpa".
I'm so glad you like my Halbarad. Not that it ever worries him, but I think it's cool that he's finally able to do something that Aragorn can't. *g*
Thanks for the review!
Fantasia
· 20 December 2009
· Chapter 4: Howls in the Night
Cairistiona, I'm so gald that you are posting and Denlad is the focus of your story, I really like him. It will be intersting to see him adapting to his new world, and forming his relationship with Halbarad and Aragorn. You can see his devotion to Aragorn already and you are showing parts of his personality, what we'll see in your other stories, kind of prequels of this one, his friendship with those two, what a wonderful warrior he is and his sense of humor.
Now, Aragorn has to get injured, there is no way that he can escape without a scrap. Glad to see the twins, I like them a lot.
Author's reply
Thank you, Fantasia! I'm so glad you're enjoying the story and even looking forward to more like this... that's reassuring to know because I do want to continue writing about this time during Denlad's & Aragorn's life. And um, yeah, I do tend to batter poor Aragorn a bit, don't I? Hmmm... can't imagine what might happen to him this time. It's only a wolf hunt... and really really cold... ;)
Thanks for the review!
Estelcontar
· 20 December 2009
· Chapter 3: Teach Me to be a Warrior
This was another most delightful chapter. I liked your wise Dírhael, and his understanding of how important it was for Denland to let go of his old life before he could accept and feel at home in his new one.
The glimpses we get of Halbarad and Aragorn former relationship, are also very fascinating and compelling, as is Denlad loyalty to Aragorn.
Well done again.
Author's reply
Thank you, Estelcontar! You've definitely pegged it... Denlad has to let go in order to move forward. I'm glad you're still finding this compelling and interesting and all those good things. :) Thanks for the review!
Silivren Tinu
· 20 December 2009
· Chapter 3: Teach Me to be a Warrior
//"No. It cannot happen. Aragorn will not fall. Teach me to be a warrior, that I might defend him." //
LOL, I love Denlad! He definitely has his heart in the right place. ;-) I have to admit, being a Dunadan I would probably have liked to keep Aragorn locked up in a room somewhere, too (perhaps someone should try to teach him knitting, though I fear the results wouldn't be too impressive :D). Denlad will make a wonderful Dunadan, but then, I already knew that. I like the way Dirhael is taking care of him - I have a feeling Denlad won't be an outsider for much longer. ;-) Loved it! :)
Author's reply
Thanks, Almut! Yes, Denlad will be inching his way from outsider to beloved insider through this and other stories still to come. :)
And wouldn't you love to see Aragorn trying to knit??? LOL
Thanks for the review!
Marethiel
· 20 December 2009
· Chapter 3: Teach Me to be a Warrior
Well, I've been waiting until I had time to really devote to reviewing this lovely story. I've been enthralled with your OC of Denlad; he makes such a fabulous counterbalance for Halbarad!
And yours is a unique portrayal of Dirhael! I love it. I would never have expected it, and it works with this story so well! And besides THIS story, I also see how wonderful Dirhael would have been with a very young Aragorn, serving to offer the more gentle support to contrast with Halbarad's training.
I'm completely entranced with this young, introspective Dunadan. I'm loving hearing his story.
Agorel vae, hiril vuin!
~Marethiel
Author's reply
Thanks, Marethiel! I'm glad you're enjoying all the aspects of this... Dirhael, like Halbarad, is definitely an unformed character in many ways so I'm having fun fleshing him out. I do think that he likely doted on Aragorn completely and as you say, gave Aragorn the sympathetic ear that he likely needed that first year. (Although Halbarad is jumping up and down throwing a tantrum at me because he claims he was *never* that hard on Aragorn...)
Thanks again for the lovely review!
Vilwarin
· 20 December 2009
· Chapter 3: Teach Me to be a Warrior
Ah, now I understand. The interaction between Dírhael and Denlad is beautifully done. He shows nobility and strength in this and I'm glad to know that he managed to become what he wishes to.
And I like the description of Halbarad. Very apt! ;)
Author's reply
Thanks, Vilwarin! It's kind of like cheating, writing this knowing how Denlad turned out and knowing that everyone who's read my stories knows, but it was still fun to write the details, because Dirhael may know, through foresight, and Aragorn and Ivorwen and whoever else, but Denlad himself doesn't. And that's where the tension comes in... we're all but wanting to thump Denlad to let him know that everything.will.be.fine!!! *g* I'm glad you liked the description of Halbarad. Not so sure Halbarad will!
Thanks for the review!
utfrog
· 19 December 2009
· Chapter 3: Teach Me to be a Warrior
Thank you for a lovely holiday treat. I really like this story and am eager for each new chapter.
Author's reply
Thank you, utfrog! I'm so glad you're enjoying the story!
shirebound
· 19 December 2009
· Chapter 3: Teach Me to be a Warrior
What a wonderful conversation! Dirhael's explanation is simple enough for a beginning, but inspiring and trusting enough to stir Denlad's noble heart.
you will live to the end of your days, however long or short they are. How you choose to live those days remains the important thing.
That's so wise. I want to remember that. :)
Author's reply
Thank you, shirebound! Dirhael's a wise man, isn't he? And I do think you're right--Denlad does have a noble heart, even if he doesn't quite realize it yet. Thank you for the review!
Midnight Promise
· 19 December 2009
· Chapter 3: Teach Me to be a Warrior
YAY! Denlad finally gets a hug! Curse you Estel for not doing it sooner. Bah!
I LOVE Denlad's valiant personality - your characters are always amazing! :D
Awesome job, and I can't wait for more!
Author's reply
Thanks, MP! Yes, Denlad finally gets a much-needed hug, but don't be too hard on Estel... Dirhael has been a father, after all. :) I'm so glad you're liking my characters. More to come tomorrow! Thanks again!
Minerva Organa
· 19 December 2009
· Chapter 3: Teach Me to be a Warrior
Does Denlad need a history tutor?? *waves hand eagerly, volunteers* I'd much rather tutor him than worry about my own history exams!!! =D
Seriously, though, this story rocks hardcore. I loved this interaction between Dirhael and Denlad so very much--I can very much relate to the shy, tentative way Denlad still acts around the Dunedain--he feels welcomed but is still so very uncertain. And I can't decide if I'm looking forward to his interactions with Halbarad or not. I hope he doesn't scare him too terribly!
Author's reply
Thanks, Minerva! I'm sure Denlad would LOVE for you to tutor him in M-e history. It's so vast and complicated, he's going to need a lot of help. :)
I'm glad you're enjoying this story... thanks for the review!
Radbooks
· 19 December 2009
· Chapter 3: Teach Me to be a Warrior
Very well done chapter... to get all of that history to Denlad and still make it interesting to us takes real skill, so nicely done! I really like this young man. I liked him in The Ranger and the Hobbit, but I still haven't found time to read your other one... I must do that soon! And, yes, you made me tear up again... I'm so glad he was able to release some of his emotions like that. He really needed to do that.
Author's reply
Thank you, Radbooks! I'll be interested to see what you think of Denlad should you ever have a chance to read "At Hope's Edge", since when I wrote that, he was not as well-formed in my mind as he has since become. Anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter and that it moved you once again to tears! I may have to send you a box of tissues at this rate. :)
Thanks for the lovely review!
Hola!
So, watched Born of Hope, and I liked it! Lol, when one of the twins throws his brother the bow it made it more personal. . .and more amusing. :)
Ugh, I want my student days to be long over too. . .Lol.
Aw, Aragorn is so nice! He better be to our boy though. :3 Hmm, does Denlad know how to fight at this age? o_O
Haha! ("You’ve always been my favorite brother, Elladan." ) Hehe. Always adore the brotherly love! :D
Cheers!
MP
Author's reply
Thanks, MP... glad you liked the lighter moments in this. I definitely see Aragorn and the twins bantering quite a bit, as any brothers tend to do. As for Denlad fighting, I think he has much to learn first! :)
Born of Hope was such a wonderful film... I do hope more like it come out!
Thanks for the review!
Inzilbeth
· 18 December 2009
· Chapter 1: On the Outside Looking In
This story is a pure joy! Not only is your Denlad a peach of a character, you also provide some delightful insights into the lives of the Dunedain. I love your take on Dirhael. He seems to be everything you would expect of a man who has seem much suffering yet still lives in hope of better days. And it is always good to see Aragorn at this stage of his life; now an experienced captain but not infallible.
As always, an unmissable read!
Author's reply
Thank you, Inzilbeth! I'm so glad for your help on this, and also very glad you like the story. I think Dirhael is a fascinating character--he's lived so long and seen so much. I'm very much enjoying him in this, as well as Ivorwen. And yes, goes without saying it's fun to look at this point of Aragorn's life as well.
Thank you for the review!
Estelcontar
· 18 December 2009
· Chapter 2: Mettarë Interrupted
I was hoping this time Aragorn and his rangers would have a wonderfully calm and cheerful time in your fiction, and enjoy their Mettarë in peace to their little hearts content. Knowing you, though, I should have known this was not to be.
What a gloriously wonderful chapter though. It warmed my heart to see this gentle, homely side of Aragorn enjoying peace and quiet in the midst of his kin and his friends. I've been always sure he cherished these peaceful moment above most, and since we don't get to see too many of them in fan fiction it was a joy to see this in your story.
I found the sight of Aragorn with Dírhael and Ivorwen most touching, and the bit in which Ivorwen tenderly reaches out to touch his cheek, calling him dear one a most poignant and endearing detail. To see Aragorn romping with the children was a total delight, as was his thoughtfulness and generousness in the scene in which he gathered the presents he was going to give to Denland. I also enjoyed very much the humour you instilled in the scene with Elladan and Elrohir.
Now, to expect that they all would have no adventures was too much, wasn't it? LOL
I hope you noticed I loved this chapter.
Author's reply
Thank you, Estelcontar! And no, with my stories, nothing seems to stay peaceful for long! Adventure is ahead. :) I'm glad you liked these tender moments. I love the thought of Aragorn interacting with his maternal grandparents... how much they must have loved their grandson!
And yes, I did notice how much you loved this. *g* Thanks for the review!
Vilwarin
· 18 December 2009
· Chapter 2: Mettarë Interrupted
Oh no! That is so mean of you! I was going to say how I loved the scene with the children, the fact that Aragorn drowns in gifts from others and how much he cares for young Denlad. And now that!
It must be a hard winter indeed that such shy creatures as wolves come out and attack men! Or are those not normal wolves but something sent by the Enemy? *shudders*
Author's reply
I know, I know, I'm a meany! *g* As for the shy wolves... I'm not sure that even "ordinary" M-e wolves are going to behave like our own wolves. M-e creatures all seem to have that wonderful other-worldliness that's so fun to play around with.
Thanks for the review!