Reviews (56)

Branwyn · 25 December 2004 · Chapter 9: Young Elboron's Tale (With Guest Appearances by Elladan and Elrohir)

Ann-- It seems that Elboron takes after his late uncle and will be more than a little disappointed if there aren't any orcs left to kill! And this line best I speak straight out what is in my mind has a definite Boromir-ish sound to it. I love Elboron practicing "rangerly ways," hoping to sneak up on the visitors! (I doubt there is a boy alive who hasn't tried that at least once, LOL.) A very fun drabble! Branwyn

Branwyn · 25 December 2004 · Chapter 8: Marriage Counseling

Ann, Thank you for the defending the much-maligned Denethor! You remind the reader that, even more than ordinary individuals, the Steward would feel required to hide much of his true self behind a public persona. Hmm, Finduilas seems happy enough, doesn't she? As they say, "still waters run deep..." I liked her slightly arch answer to Imrahil's rather forward question. Branwyn

Branwyn · 25 December 2004 · Chapter 5: Courtship

Ann, Of course--they are both used to wide-open spaces! Eomer's uncertain reaction to Lothiriel's remark that "we are all children of the sea" seems appropriate; not only was she raised in a more sophisticated culture, she is probably better educated than he is. And her uncertain reaction at his physical advance--taking her hand--seems appropriate for a woman from a society that values emotional reserve. Please feel free to unleash your inner romantic vein at any time! In fact, feed it some oats once in a while! :-D Branwyn

Branwyn · 25 December 2004 · Chapter 4: Skilled With A Needle

Ann, Thank you again for this wonderful birthday present! Regarding the compatability of martial virtues and womanly arts, Joan of Arc proudly told her interrogators that she was the best spinner in her village! So the two are not mutually exclusive. I liked that this is set in the winter, when the weather would sometimes keep them housebound and there would be more time for fine handiwork. She held up her handiwork, a small jacket as exquisite and intricate as a spider’s web. Aww! It's for Elboron! Branwyn

Branwyn · 25 December 2004 · Chapter 2: Kindred Spirits

Ann-- I love this! Gandalf willingly became the instrument of destiny, but it had never occured to me that the instrument might rather wistfully wish for the simpler joys he had forgone. dear Faramir had always been the child of his heart Though they apparently did not spend much time together when Faramir was young, there must have been a deep bond between these two; otherwise, why would Denethor have been so jealous of Gandalf, accusing him of stealing "half my son's love"? Thank you for this! Branwyn

Branwyn · 25 December 2004 · Chapter 1: Natural History

Ann-- I read this and love to think that, even when he ranged across Ithilien as a soldier, Faramir felt joy at the beauty and abundance of its wildlife. And now he shares his skill at woodcraft with his grandson, but, happily, he can teach Barahir how to track wildlife instead of orcs! Nestled cozily together, they watched shooting stars streaming like fireworks across the sky. A beautiful end to their day!