Reviews (41)

demeter d · 10 January 2026 · Chapter 17

Oh, oops, that's right. Dorhaur already knows who Estel is. What is discussed is how do you raise a mortal child! There have been several comments he has made about what Estel as Chieftain may think about certain matters. It is interesting for him to contemplate that in the matter of raising a human child, he can perhaps teach the ageless Lord of Imladris.

demeter d · 10 January 2026 · Chapter 16

So far all that I have said about this story was "Welcome back" when you first re-posted it. I had read it the first time around, before the breach. I do not remember reviewing it then. I think I did, at least once. For the last few days I have been having Microsoft Edge read this story aloud while I made food and did dishes. Once I got back into your story I became quite caught up in it, and did not want to stop, even to go to work! I have especially become immersed in your characters's thoughts and inner reflections. There is Dorhaur's thinking about the development and relationships of human boys. And especially Elrond's thought and comments about our place as children in the thought of Iluvatar. And, especially, Dorhaur's advice to Estel about the kind of man he can grow to be. His defense of the nobility of Man reminds me of Boromir of Gondor some nearly seventy years later, but without the edge of desperation he had gained by the time he reached Imladris. And your description of Darlo the Innkeeper sounds so much like Barliman Butterbur! All of these feel so much like what I like best in Tolkien, and the best fan fiction; there is much of that sort here at SOA. And now, Elrond wants a private talk with the Dunadan. Is he to be brought into the secret?

Lindelea · 9 May 2025 · Chapter 20

I have put off reading the last few chapters of this story long enough. So onward... I can easily resonate with young Estel at the beginning in so many ways... wanting to stay awake to hear what the adults are talking about (and failing), waking up very early on a cold morning when camping, not liking the feeling of long hair on the back of my neck. Maybe not the part about giving himself a haircut, though. I had the advantage of seeing my mom try to give herself a haircut (when I was a small child), and let's just say things did not go well. But as I was reading about the convenience of short hair as they're riding back to Rivendell, I suddenly had a flash of memory from one of Anne McCaffrey's "Harper Hall" books, where someone fussing over Menolly says something like, "And who cut your hair? They must have used a knife!" Dorhaur is such a star. (I think I used that word right.) "Not with a knife next time, perhaps." He would simply have to wait, and perhaps spring his queries upon his father unaware. ... it was worth a try. Ah, the eternal optimism of youth! Who knew if he'd ever see Dorhaur again? The reader might have an inkling, perhaps. O those big brothers and their stories. One of my big brothers told me that canned cream of mushroom soup was actually "cream of baby octopus" soup. I haven't eaten the stuff since I was a toddler, in large part due to that memory. (I love homemade cream of mushroom soup, though. So it's not the mushrooms.) I suspect Hethu was responding to the call of the stables. No matter how much of a workout my horse had, she'd always speed up the last mile or so as we headed towards home and grain box and grazing and the other horses and all that she loved. I also found myself wondering if grown-up Aragorn felt that same thrill of coming home whenever he heard the Bruinen from a distance and coming closer as he walked. Even during that desperate journey with the Ring-bearer...? The mental picture of Elrond holding the sleeping lad securely as they rode on was heart-warming. As is Gilraen's recovery of her son. But... growth spurt! It reminds me of a friend who bought jeans for her son that were several inches too long (she told him to roll them up) and within six months, they were too short. At that time, I seem to remember, Sears had a generous return policy (at least for boys' jeans...). My friend told me she *always* bought her son's jeans at Sears even though they were more expensive because she could exchange them when he had an unexpected growth spurt soon after she'd bought new ones. Which seemed to happen a lot. I am going to save the Epilogue to savour slowly later. But this chapter was a thoroughly enjoyable way to start out my day. Thank you!

Lindelea · 4 April 2025 · Chapter 19

This chapter is marvellous! If I weren't bumping up against midnight, I would have read slowly, savoring every nuance. But I gulped it down and will have to come back later and re-read because I don't want to have missed anything. But I can say that this, especially, stood out: I have not battled Morgoth himself, watched my King and yours fall in the Alliance against Sauron, and protected the last of my brother's line over the course of centuries to be defeated at the end by pettiness and willful misunderstanding. (If I had been there, I probably would have annoyed everyone with a standing ovation.) G'night. Until tomorrow, if all goes well, or not too long after, I hope.

Lindelea · 1 April 2025 · Chapter 18

He wouldn't fall. Yup. But come away from the edge, anyhow. Good for Estel in deciding to tell the truth. And good for Dorhaur in choosing to withdraw from the scene. He might as well be comfortable while flinging himself onto the chopping block. Ah, the drama of being young... And good for Elrond's persistence and insight. He needed this information. (I can remember my mom telling my brothers to stop shrugging... permanently.) Somewhere, there was a trap in those words. Estel just wasn't sure where. Poor kid. Aha. Elrond is going to have Words with a certain Dúnedan. And he wants to be unconstrained by Estel's presence. Dorhaur's assessment of Baradhald is interesting, considering the fact that Baradhald later rode South and died in battle defending Estel years later. Unless I'm remembering wrong. Is there a story there? The Ranger hierarchy applied to patrol scheduling and placement of men, battle plans, and general decision-making within the confines of the Rangers' every day duties. This, however, did not fall in any of those categories. In this matter, Dorhaur of the Dúnedain, unknown among the greater part of his people though he may be, had every right to demand a response from the cousin of their former Chieftain. Very interesting. I continue to be impressed by Dorhaur's integrity and wisdom. ...as such, these might be his truest allies... Ah. It seems that Dorhaur, however, will have the privilege of witnessing what Elrond has to say to Baradhald! (I can hope, anyhow.)

Lindelea · 1 April 2025 · Chapter 17

It's interesting to follow Dorhaur's thought process as he works through what he has just learned from Estel, and what he knows of Elrond. His head argued fiercely, but his heart refused to be completely convinced. Nicely stated, and very real-feeling. Hmmm. Is Elrond hesitant to begin this particular conversation for some reason? (I have my ideas.) I do love that they have in common the blessings and problems of "two sons riding together". I am really enjoying the description of the Dúnedain community and lifestyle. Elrond's description of the parallels and differences between Rivendell and Mirkwood Elves is also fascinating. "It never stops, then?" Has there ever been a parent who didn't ask this question? Well, I suppose one solution to the problem would be for the Elves to foster multiple children of the Dúnedain! (That would certainly liven up Rivendell, LOL.) But somehow, I don't think that's what they're talking about. There is also such a thing as isolation and overprotection, which would be far from ideal for someone with Estel's potential future role and responsibilities. Aha. So Estel is not about to encounter physical danger at the top while his elders are occupied elsewhere. Somehow, that's a relief.

Lindelea · 17 March 2025 · Chapter 17

I was going to read the next chapter (this one) tonight, but I've hit the wall, and one of the cats just told me in no uncertain terms that I need to turn off the laptop and go to bed. So I'll have to come back (tomorrow? I hope?). I see that the story is marked "Complete", making it easier to put off reading to make it last longer, somehow. But do you have other stories about Estel's life with the Dúnedain, especially with Dorhaur and his family? (I'm too tired to go looking right now.) Cheers.

Lindelea · 11 March 2025 · Chapter 16

I've got to admit, I'll be glad to see the back of Baradhald. Dorhaur, I wouldn't mind so much if he hung around. Would that be the same flat protected hollow where Strider found evidence that Rangers had been there, and left the firewood, some decades hence? (TIL the meaning of Amon Sûl!) And now the tower (before it was ruined) reminds me somehow of a lighthouse, withstanding the storms. No wonder the three kingdoms fought over it, if I'm remembering right. Baradhald had better watch out. I'd walk lightly around Glorfindel if I were him. Do I detect a hint of peas in a pod? ("You could not prevent me.") And "climbed steeper with worse injury..." Ah these Rangers. No wonder I want to read more about them. Estel's thoughts about lessons vs. "the real thing" certainly ring true! I remember exploring ruins as well as reconstructed historic sites, and I can definitely identify with young Estel and his enthusiasm. I wonder what great forces were employed to destroy what must have been a mighty tower. within a week of returning Elrond would likely know every Elf who had made such a statement within the bounds of Imladris, whether Estel had overheard or no. Ah, yes. In my stories, this phenomenon is known as the Talk of the Tooks (whose gossip seems to carry more destructive power than the common gossip of other Shire-folk, perhaps because of the feyness of that family, with the rumors of fairy ancestry). I might also imagine that the irritation of being forced to endure Baradhald's company over the past days has added to Estel's poor opinion of Men. "rejoice in what you are" Words of wisdom. Along with the challenge to be a Man that others would be proud to follow. Be a Man who can draw forth the valor and the love which lies hidden in other Men. I have an inkling as to the topic of the upcoming conversation between Elrond and Dorhael. It will be interesting to see if I've guessed right. Um. He's alone on Weathertop, unless Elrond and Dorhaur are still there. Is he going to overhear part of their conversation? Or is he going to encounter danger? It may even be possible that the hilltop is haunted by restless spirits of the Men who died there.

Lindelea · 4 March 2025 · Chapter 15

The curiosity of a child is so wonderful! Question after question, trying to fit new sights and insights into their proper place amongst previously acquired knowledge. Ah. It seems only right that Estel would have a sense of homecoming in this land. he suspected the boy was highly unlikely to approve of any familial appeal to seal a promotion for his father's cousin. I suspect he's right. it was an image the Dúnedain cultivated, much as at times they wearied of its effects. I hadn't really thought about it, but of course they do. And Elrond's thoughts about the name "Scowler" are quite amusing. Aha! Clever, perceptive Dorhael! (Estel could do worse in a foster-father if he should return to his people.) "Are we there yet?" Familiar words, indeed. Maybe he would just walk everywhere when he was grown. Foreshadowing, perhaps? By the way, I sympathize. I've been saddle-sore in my time. Weathertop!

Itarille · 24 February 2025 · Chapter 4

How comforting it must be, to be sheltered in a hobbit hole after soem dreadul days! And of course a hobbit will know when something is not right.

Itarille · 24 February 2025 · Chapter 2

I liked how you described Estel's bewilderment as he encountered a waitress, and a (seemingly) uncaring innkeeper. He has had a sheltered childhood, and it is believable that many mundane things would be totally new to him.

Lindelea · 24 February 2025 · Chapter 14

I can imagine how trees might soothe ragged Elvish nerves... LOL, the similarities between children mentioned here are amusing to contemplate, along with the Twins' reactions. It must be so frustrating to know that Estel was there but is somewhere else now. Elrond's anger at the sick man is understandable, but what he hears about Estel's attitude must be humbling. Probably not an emotion he's used to experiencing very often if at all. Lovely! I'm looking forward to reading more.

Lindelea · 18 February 2025 · Chapter 13

People like Captain Baradhald. Yes, the effective people get things done in spite of such people and often find them quite a barrier. And then people like Captain Baradhald typically take the credit for any success (and none of the blame for the consequences of their errors). At last, we get a glimpse into the reason for Estel's dislike of the Man. I'd had an inkling. Gilraen was infinitely wise in choosing to raise the boy in Imladris, I think. Especially since it's all too clear that Baradhald has ambitions to use Estel as a tool for his own purposes.

Lindelea · 15 February 2025 · Chapter 12

What mattered was that his own heart, so reluctant at the start to open itself as father to a child of Men, could not now easily bear that child's loss. An evocative sketch of the development of the relationship between Elrond and Estel, in a nutshell. "limp as a rag doll": how worrisome! And the situation, especially the knowledge they are accumulating based on interviews and tracks and other evidence, is (as you say) intolerable. At last! They reach Dari, and the girl with Estel's hair tie knows exactly what to do. (And I hate having hair in my face, too, Estel. I rejoice with you on getting your hair tie back. It's so often the little things that make life livable.) Hmmm. It seems that Estel's previous interactions with Baradhald were not pleasant. It will be interesting to learn more.

Lindelea · 14 February 2025 · Chapter 11

What a happy awakening for Estel. I'm sure he was exhausted, and his body is probably all too short on fuel and all too full of stress hormones still, even after the long sleep. How alarming the scene in Rivendell sounds. I can clearly imagine the sequence of emotions: amusement, annoyance, the emergence of worry (shoved down), and finally, acknowledgement that something is very, very wrong. But at least they seem to be on the right track before the chapter ends!

Lindelea · 13 February 2025 · Chapter 10

Definitely a day for shocks. And perhaps still more shocks are in store for our helpful Ranger. Good strategy, Dorhaur, keep pretending to be asleep. You'll hear a lot more that way. Yup. More shocks. Unfortunately, I have known my own share of Baradhalds in my time. [Insert expletive of your choice here.] I like how you show the different attitudes the Elves have towards Dorhaur and Baradhald. And the awe that Dorhaur must have felt in looking at the sleeping child – the hope of the Dúnedain... and the world.

Lindelea · 13 February 2025 · Chapter 9

"What are you doing down there?" My mind immediately generated half-a-dozen snarky answers. It's a good thing young Estel has more sense than I do. He really sleep-walked a long way, didn't he? Ah, Dorhaur has a rope in his pack. Doesn't do him much good there, unfortunately. Still, he has a rope, which is more than the Fellowship could say when they came to Moria. (I am snarky tonight. It must be getting close to bedtime.) I'm glad Dorhaur didn't leave him alone in the ravine in the night when who-knows-what might be out there! Yikes! My respect and admiration for Dorhaur just keeps growing – exponentially, at this moment. I can see him sliding down into the trap to the rescue! And the moving battle! And, whew. The cavalry comes over the hill just in the nick of time. It'll be interesting to see the upcoming conversation between Dorhaur and Estel's foster-family.

Lindelea · 11 February 2025 · Chapter 8

Gangly legs and getting tired remind me of the Irish Wolfhound puppy we cared for all last summer and fall. We had him from about five months of age until he turned a year old. Though he was huge and had long legs (that grew longer), he tired easily, and the vet warned us not to walk him more than two miles or so to avoid damaging his rapidly growing joints, a far cry from our Giant Schnauzers who needed five miles a day to keep their exuberance in check. For all his size, he was something of a "delicate flower", or so we liked to joke. Rangers' travel rations: Barely worth having! (Sounds like an advertising jingle.) Aww. Dorhaur has won a piece of my heart with his response: I hope I may have earned the same manner of praise from them as your brothers have from you. And it seems Estel is learning valuable lessons about the area and even getting a glimpse of his future life as Strider (though he doesn't know that at this point). Was this some sort of mind-calling that prompted him to walk towards Archet in his sleep? But instead of rescuing him, his Rivendell family seems to have drawn him into danger...

Mirkwoodmaiden · 11 February 2025 · Chapter 9999

PSW! I know what you mean! The Breach of 2025 has had the unintended effect of providing me with stories that previously went undiscovered! (((hugs))) MM

Mirkwoodmaiden · 10 February 2025 · Chapter 9999

PSW! I have really enjoyed this story. I am always interested in stories about young Aragorn. I thought your take though different from mine to be well-conceived and thought out. He has learned a lot about the world outside Rivendell I would be really interested in what you think about my interpretation of young Estel in "The Heir Apparent" if you want to read it of course and had the time. Thanks for the story! (((hugs))) MM

Lindelea · 8 February 2025 · Chapter 7

O clever Estel, putting two and two together: Erestor's mention and this Man's repetition of the term. Even though he's telling mostly truth, he's not very credible, poor lad. But others can confirm his story, so there's that. (But hmmm. Are Dúnedain youth in the habit of running away? That sounds... odd somehow. Still, I'm sure it takes all kinds to make a world. That said, I'm actually a little surprised that the Ranger gives his real name on such short acquaintance. Perhaps he's hoping the lad has heard of him and might be more inclined to tell him the *real* story?) Excellent dialogue. Very believable. And I love the motto, "Rangers take care of their own." I thought maybe Estel had jumped from frying pan into the fire, but the last part is making me rethink that impression...

Lindelea · 6 February 2025 · Chapter 6

I am sad, of course, but coping. Except for cooking. I need a resident hobbit, I think, to help me through this time. The food you describe sounds wonderful. Cooking feels like too much work right now. Eventually, I'll get my energy back, as I know from past experience. I've gotten pretty good at avoiding stress, worked hard at it, even, though that sounds paradoxical – but this week's stress was unavoidable. Thank you for your compassion and care. Poor Estel, cast adrift on life's ocean without oars or sail or even rudder, it sounds like. He's doing remarkably well, considering. Staddle must seem like an exotic foreign country to him. (And to think someday he'll travel far to the East and South and experience other peoples and cultures...) I love how Cres showed "remarkable restraint for a hobbit". I hadn't thought about his lack of socialisation in terms of peers, but I love that the other children welcome him (rather than challenging him to wrestle, as Bergil did to Pippin!). And Nob! Will he grow up to take on employment at The Prancing Pony someday? And if so, does grown-up Nob ever connect Strider to young Estel? Uh-oh. Dare I hope that Scowler is a Man of integrity and noble character?

Lindelea · 6 February 2025 · Chapter 5

Poor starved, exhausted lad! He has been through such an ordeal, and it's not over yet. For comic relief, Estel's struggle with the braces was amusing. I can just hear him muttering, "What kind of belt-thing is this supposed to be?" Okay, so now more people know his real name and that he's not the son of the sick man. I hope they can be discreet. Hobbits can be such gossips! (but these hobbits – and Mannish people – sound pretty thoughtful and practical) Estel's capacity for compassion at age 12 is astounding. And life has been so hard on these people. But through losing so much, they can understand the pain of loss in another and reach out a helping heart. Hmm. Staddle isn't Archet. And if Barliman Butterbur couldn't find someone to take a letter to the Shire, how are they ever going to find someone to take a lost boy a much longer distance? I love the walking song. It sounds very hobbity.

Mirkwoodmaiden · 4 February 2025 · Chapter 19

PSW! Dorhaur is indeed a good man. And just what is Baradhald's problem other than being a foolish Ass! Looking forward to more! (((hugs))) MM

Mirkwoodmaiden · 4 February 2025 · Chapter 18

PSW! WOW! I DO NOT LIKE Baradhald! Making Gilraen cry. Foisting his own discontent on the situation. The small can of whoop-ass that Elrond laid on him was both therapeutic and entertaining! (((hugs))) MM