Reviews (24)

Shlain · 12 November 2020 · Chapter 9: Part 2 - Chapter 5

Well we'll well! I do love the way you depict Elrond. Too many fanfics see him as this 'otherworldly' person. Here we see him as more down to earth and relatable if not still a bit lofty (as he should be!) The twins are written beautifully. Too many stories have them being child-like pranksters and not the fierce warriors who suffered a lot after losing their mother and other loved ones over the centuries and millenia. To me Elrohir seems a bit more inclined to be like Elrond where Elladan is the stern, if not a bit cold, leader who takes too much weight on his shoulders. Do tell me, is Telmoth and Elrohir in love? If not I massacred your brilliant story in my mind's eye for I felt a bit of a lovers tension. Ahh! I feel like reading this story again. Gilraen has that undercurrent of a noble Queen and too often she is depicted as over emotional. Here you have her carrying herself as stoic as she can for Estel's sake. Looking forward to reading your other stories.

Angel · 2 May 2005 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue

I turned each page breathless with excitement and fear. Afraid of what was coming yet tingling with anticipation. You wrote this flawlessly. Each word I felt was deliberate and very rarely do I feel that way about the written word yet I cannot help but ask the many questions that arose which am sure my cluelessness obscured the answers to. Why couldn't Gilraen have had her child? Who left the gifts for Estel? I know it was Elrond but was hoping for something more about them goodness there were many questions but my ISP ate up my earlier review so have now forgotten them. What I don't forget is the indepth research into the twins. I have loved the twins since first reading LotR. And am a naieve sap for their gorgeous pranking selves in the mainstream of fanfic, or rather dribble lol, yet I don't think I've ever loved them more than I did here - with their stoic defiance, against too much emotion yet battling them within. The love for their father versus the need to maim, kill, obliterate, destroy - that which robbed them of their mother, and not just her but plenty other loved ones. Their undeniable bond and the peeks of mirth and warmth that occassionally got through the barrier. BRAVO! And I absolutely love the individuality you gave each, yet at the same time they were halves of one whole for they felt the same yet not always at the same time! And Elladan was later Elrohir and vice versa, though I got the distinct feeling Elladan was in need of comfort in the beginning and Gilraen should not have held Aragorn back from hugging Elladan at the silverlake. Oh and Estel! How realistic for Elrond to grow into accepting and then loving him, the touch with him cheering Elrond after the twins ride off is priceless and their talks, their toys etc...as well also as the "chair" moment. Glorfindel was pristine! Thank you for including him and at least making him like Tolkien's :) And you made Gilraen bearable...okay likeable. I used to love her when I first read canon. Felt her pain at losing Arathorn and having to give up Estel, but my foray into fanfic destroyed that and subsequent rereadings of the books has never quite fixed it. But I tire of writers leaving her out and am grateful you included her and made her real. Her loss and naievety would be as one clever finds herself thrown into a new world. I just felt her presence a tad throttling on Estel. Elrond what a marvel! You gave him that mystique that Bilbo found, yet the warmth and love that accepts all the heirs of his brother in exchange of very little if anything at all and even in the face of their wrath. And you made him the guy that loved Estel. I cannot possibly ask for more... OOps all I really wanted to say was - thank you for this beautiful piece, I'll treasure it always :)

Hisie Lome · 12 July 2004 · Chapter 99999: Notes

This was one of the only tales I have ever read that shows Gilraen as a living person. This was a great mix of different cultures and sacrifies for duty. Quite well done. Trully, thank you for all of your hard work.

LKK · 17 January 2004 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue

I just discovered that I hadn't provided a final story review! Bad me. This story was amazing from beginning to end. I've said before that the otherworldliness of the elves was one of the big selling points for me. This chapter amused me as Gilraen seems to be becoming "elvish" in that sense. Since we never saw Gilraen before her grief, I can't say whether she has recovered her old confidence or gained a new one. Either way, it was good to see her strong and useful. I would like to believe that she will become a great asset to the Rangers, Rivendell, and Estel in the future. Excellent story, AfterEver. I hope you will write more in the future. :-) LKK

Brenda G. · 6 December 2003 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue

What a satisfying end to this tale. I feel as comfortable as Gilraen in her living arrangments amongst Elves. Elrond has become a friend and mentor and someone to whom she can place the utmost trust for her welfare and that of her son's. I'm not even sure Gilraen is aware of how much of a friend Elrond is to her, but no doubt this realization will come in time. Little Estel is a delight and has adapted so readily to the Elvish way of life. Already Elrond is his favorite person beyond his mother and will become (if not already) the substitute father for the little boy. I like that Elrond has provided Gilraen a "position" with responsibilities to maintain, and I am sure Gilraen is most appreciative. She seems to be fully embracing her new station and fate. Already a year? Yes, Gilraen is adopting not only the Elvish way of life, but their perception of the flow of time. Next, she'll be sprouting pointed ears! This was very well written and held my attention throughout the story. I do hope we see other offerings from you as the days unfold. Well done.

LKK · 1 December 2003 · Chapter 9: Part 2 - Chapter 5

I want to apologize for seeming to have abandoned this lovely story. I haven't really. I've read each chapter faithfully as you've posted it. Unfortunately, I haven't had time to leave any reviews. But I want you to know that I am still reading and ENJOYING this wonderful story. Your writing continues to enthrall me. Gilraen's growth in Rivendell is a constant source of interest as is the complex relationship between Elrond and his sons. And your little Aragorn (now Estel) is a delight. Keep up the great work! LKK

Muinthel · 18 November 2003 · Chapter 8: Part 2 - Chapter 4

I have not been online for a while and try to catch up on all stories.....And to tell you - yours is very special! The last chapter especially the things Gilraen goes through means soooo much to me...! Your discription of the Charaters is so "deep". I like the mystique you put around Elrond....(he is my favorite character in Tolkiens novel) and the uncertainty Gilraen feels around him. His wisdom and his loyalty and his sensitivity in dealing with humans, makes me want to meet him. I also envy Gilraen to live in Rivendell and to get to know more about elves....but a livetime of men would not be enough to understand elves. I'm waiting to find out more about the growing relationship of Elrond and Aragorn and also the influence the twins will have on him. (So just to give you some hints for more stories :-) ) And your right...one has the feeling of twilight while reading your story...I could not find better words for what I feel.

daw the minstrel · 17 November 2003 · Chapter 8: Part 2 - Chapter 4

Poor Gilraen. I know she is starting a different part of her life and that it too can be interesting and rewarding, but she has lost her husband, her hope of a new baby, and the continuity she could create by telling her son about his father. I like the slightly dark atmosphere you have created here.

Antigone_Q · 16 November 2003 · Chapter 8: Part 2 - Chapter 4

I don't think I have reviewed your story before, but I have been reading it for a while (on fanfiction.net, then here). Just wanted to let you know how much I have enjoyed your 3-dimensional characters, and especially how you are writing Gilraen and Elrond. It's a little unusual for a fan fiction piece to have this much depth - very nice work.

Brenda G. · 15 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Part 2 - Chapter 3

It is amusing to me to see that living with Elves is beginning to affect the passage of time, or should I say the awareness of the passage of time, for Gilraen. "Weeks?" She seems to be adapting nicely. So sad that the cord of companionship for young Aragorn with the sons of Elrond must be so quickly snapped by their leaving to go north again, but I know the reason for Gilraen's smile! Elrond has stepped in as their replacement. He who will eventualy become a true father figure to Aragorn has already begun his training for that role, and Elladan and Elrohir will soon enough fill their roles as siblings to the child. What special creatures are the Elves! I can't think of a race that intrigues me more or one that elicits my envy as much as they do. Ah, well, we take what we are given, and I was not granted wternal youth, immortality or pointed ears! Still, reading about them is so rewarding. I like the pictures you paint of the Elves in this story. It will be interesting to see how Gilraen further adapts to her new home and its occupants. I'm waiting for her first, truly heart-felt outburst of joy in her new surroundings, and for that first glimmer of when she truly and fully embraces what for her will be the rest of her life, in Rivendell, with Elves. It was a nice release for her to spend some time with her mortal friends. Well done. Eager for your next installment.

Brenda G. · 6 November 2003 · Chapter 6: Part 2 - Chapter 2

Wow... The rainy day interlude between Gilraen and her husband was amazing in detail and depth. And also very beautiful. You defined in that one passage what love should be for those who are joined heart to heart, body to body, soul to soul: joy, pleasure, playfulness, passion, total freedom, total abandonment, total fulfillment. Gilraen elicits my sympathy, my admiration, and also my envy (a little bit, anyway). Very nicely written. This just keeps getting better and better, and I am ready for more. BG

Muinthel · 4 November 2003 · Chapter 5: Part 2 - Chapter 1

...I really enjoyed the last two chapters....! I had to smile so often at your discription of little Aragorn. It felt like watching my sons again in that age. And also the feelings of Aragorn...wanting to go home...I had my younger son in my arm while reading! And I like the way you discribe the growing friendship of Elladan and Gilraen (and the respect they have for each other). I sense the fight in Gilraen - wanting to know more about the elves and on the other side feeling a little uncomfortable with the ancient folk for not knowing so much about them. I can`t wait to read more...your style puts me in the situation of a small spy watching secretly what will happens!! Ps: I hope you understand what I try to say....english is not my native....!!!

LKK · 28 October 2003 · Chapter 4: Part 1 - Chapter 4

What struck me most about this chapter was the sense of otherworldliness you gave to the elves, especially Elrond. I read so many stories involving elves. In most of them, the elves are more like perfect (or almost perfect) humans rather than an alien and unfathomable race. However, through Gilrean, that is the image I get. On the other hand, Aragorn --- with his child's view of a world where all things are possible and expected --- treats all of the wonder that Gilrean experiences at the elves as ordinary. Perhaps through her son, Gilrean will come to understand this new environment she has been thrust into. I'm looking forward to her adjusting to life in Rivendell. And to see if life in Rivendell adjusts to its new human inhabitants. LKK

LKK · 28 October 2003 · Chapter 3: Part 1 - Chapter 3

I liked your description of Rivendell from a distance -- the idea that you could only see it clearly when you weren't actually looking at it. It's been a while since I've read Tolkien's description but I believe your description was inspired by something he wrote. Yes? It was nice to read an interaction between Gilrean and Elladan. However, I don't think I know him as well as I've come to know Elrohir, yet. Perhaps that will come in time. I laughed at Elladan's comment regarding his brother: Among the Rangers, Elves are said to be stubborn; I fear Elrohir exhibits more than his half-measure, despite my good advice. I wouldn't be surprised if Elrohir said the same thing about Elladan. A very nice description of Glorfindel at the end of the chapter, there. I'm looking forward to Gilrean's meeting with Elrond. LKK

Brenda G. · 27 October 2003 · Chapter 4: Part 1 - Chapter 4

This was so good. Well-rounded, well thought out, structured just so to glean only the best out of it. I know that Gilraen must be relieved. I certainly was after her meeting with Elrond. It will be most interesting to see how she settles in with her new family and surroundings. Glorfindel is wonderful, so warm and supportive. And Aragorn - typical child, delightful child, and all boy from how you've written him. What a defining moment when Elrond found his seat of authority occupied by this boy to be king someday. Wonderful moment. I'm eager for the next chapter. Well done.

Muinthel · 25 October 2003 · Chapter 3: Part 1 - Chapter 3

Very nicely writen with so many hints and little secrets about the twins. I really like your style...one can feel the uncertainty and loss Gilrean is going through. I can't wait to read more ....how will be her meeting with Elrond....and what will she learn more about elves in general. And Aragorn ... how will he react when he finally notices, that everything that is familiar to him changes...and is not only a big adventure. I hope you update soon....!

Jay of Lasgalen · 24 October 2003 · Chapter 3: Part 1 - Chapter 3

I missed this before, but think it's a wonderful portrayal of the twins. Elrohir is especially well written, but I wonder why he has a sore back? Will you tell us? Gilraen and Aragorn are very real, and I love the slightly at odds relationship you portray between the twins. Great stuff, and I can't wait to see more! Jay

Brenda G. · 23 October 2003 · Chapter 3: Part 1 - Chapter 3

At last. They are in Rivendell and about to meet Elrond Half-Elven. I am looking forward to the first encounter between Gilraen and her host. It will be interesting to see how Aragorn reacts to the Elf Lord. I was delighted with your description of Glorfindel - what a courtly gentle Elf he is. This story has caught and held my interest, and I look forward to the next chapter. Well done.

LKK · 21 October 2003 · Chapter 2: Part 1 - Chapter 2

A very nice chapter. I enjoyed reading your interpretation of the Twins, especially Elrohir. I don't think Elladan is as well explored as his twin. I assume Gilraen will learn more of him later on though. Your depiction of young Aragorn is very realistic. He acts like a child of his age would act; that's rare in stories featuring young Aragorn. I'm looking forward to the upcoming chapters. Keep up the fine work! LKK

Brenda G. · 20 October 2003 · Chapter 2: Part 1 - Chapter 2

I really like the brothers. It would seem that Aragorn has taken to them well. It is good to see Gilraen relaxing in the safety and comfort of her twin escorts. It will be interesting to see what she makes of Lord Elrond and what he makes of her. The adventure continues - onward to Rivendell with all its magic and mystery. To live among elves... I think I may be envious of Mistress Gilraen already. Well done. Looking forward to the next chapter. BG

Nerwen Calaelen · 15 October 2003 · Chapter 1: Part 1 - Chapter 1

An interesting start. I look forward to seeing where you take this story. Your portrayal of the characters is very good - especially Gilrean.

LKK · 14 October 2003 · Chapter 1: Part 1 - Chapter 1

Your portrayal of Gilrean is very touching. She seems like a woman who has died inside. Only the responsibility of her son seems to keep her going. It is a grim portrayal, but effecting. Looking forward to Gilrean and Aragorn's interactions with the Sons of Elrond after her human companions depart. LKK

LKK · 14 October 2003 · Chapter 0: Prologue

Strong start, AfterEver. You painted a vivid portrait of Gilraen. LKK

Brenda G. · 12 October 2003 · Chapter 0: Prologue

I felt the despair as I read this piece, the utter loss and helplessness of the widow as she left her home and a chapter of her life closed forever. Each of us comes to those chapter-closings in our own life, and death and despair seem to be the gatekeepers of such events. You have masterfully conveyed the mood - the sorrow and bitterness that are held in check no matter how deeply experienced by our sad heroine. The grief of the servants as they experience their own chapter-closings. I was impressed also with the utter gentleness of Elladan and Elrohir as they guided Gilraen in her departure from her home to the stronghold of Rivendell, and was equally touched by Aragorn's innocence in the tragedy unfolding without the child's knowledge. It will be most interesting to witness a human living among elves and to see how Gilraen fares. Aragorn is young enough that he will adapt well, but the lady will be the story here, I think. This was very well done. Your writing pulls your readers through the same ringer as your characters. And that, my friend, is very fine writing indeed. I look forward to your next installment with a keen sense of anticipation.