Reviews (57)

Celebwen · 16 January 2006 · Chapter 7: Discoveries And Surprises

*happy sigh* Yes, I realize I'm dreadfully late, but I absolutely loved this one. It's probably my favorite out of your fics (but then again, that's probably because I absolutely love dogs to death). FANTABULOUS, and you continue to be my favorite author (well, ok, there's Cassia and Sio, but seriously). I loved that they got to have the puppies. So sweet! Wonderful, Jay! -Cel

Dot · 21 August 2005 · Chapter 7: Discoveries And Surprises

Oh, great ending! I was wondering what would happen when they encountered Will. It may have been awkward but I was relieved they were all fairly civil. Elladan was very restrained, considering that even I could feel his hostility! Whew, Garm is still alive – and has been busy too, it would seem! Puppies! Wasn’t that so nice of Appleton? I really enjoyed watching him with the twins. It really seemed to give him pleasure to make them happy. And I just melted when Elladan and Elrohir realise that they can’t split up the two puppies and refuse to take just one. They’d certainly understand that. Any parents would be proud of them. I’m so glad things have worked out for Will. It’s interesting that he seemed the worst off but has really turned his life around by finding something he’s good at and rising to responsibility, whereas Bob appeared to be a better person in the first place but is going nowhere. It sounds like his biggest problem is that mother of his. Grrr. And yay, they get to keep the puppies! I love the names. And the image of them in the baskets is just adorable. It sounds like it’s been a rewarding trip all round, adventures and misadventures and all! I’m sorry to see this end but no doubt you have plenty more stories for us yet :-)

Dot · 21 August 2005 · Chapter 6: Return To Bree

I think I smiled the whole way through this chapter! Great job showing the passing of time. I was wondering whether or not we’d get to see Mithlond. “There could be a big settlement here one day - a whole country!” Methinks Ilmarin could be on to something there… There’s something quite startling about elves finding fossils! I just knew that knife was going to break. Silly elf. I love the fact that Ilmarin and Elrond’s reactions were exactly the same! And I’m blaming you if I start using “Balrog’s balls” in everyday conversation ;-) I’m endlessly fascinated by the topic of healing. I actually particularly like the way Elrond’s eyes lose focus and he seems to become part of Elrohir, exploring the wound from inside his son. I also really like the way he can sense Elrohir immediately when he tries to see what’s happening. Of course, it’s a marvellous way of exploring the question of healers healing themselves. I’m learning just as much as the twins here! Elrond’s explanation makes perfect sense. Dan certainly takes after his father! I love the easy manner they have with the elves. I get the impression that they’re like that with anyone, no matter where they’re from, as long as they’re decent people. What a great way to be. “If the twins would prefer to be with Lord Elrond,” he began, “we do not mind if you share our room, my lady – do we, Ilmarin?” That made me choke on my tea!! You’re so good at writing humour and this chapter is just full of it. It’s great too to see the relaxed relationship they all have with each other now. And poor Ilmarin was propositioned! His reaction is just hysterical. The elves may tease one another about such things but to actually do it is just scandalous! I know I should feel sad that this is Will’s mother but I’m afraid I’m too busy laughing… And it’s Will! On to the next chapter… :-)

Dot · 21 August 2005 · Chapter 5: Discussions And Decisions

Hmm. It’s difficult to know what’s the right thing to do about telling the twins what happened when they were born. I know that they don’t find out for many years and I’d tend to agree with Elrond that they’re too young to at this stage to be told but I can see Celebrían’s point that they deserve to have an explanation. I certainly wouldn’t like to be the one making that decision. I was glad to see Elrohir recovered – except for the spectacular bruise, of course! I just love reading Butterbur. He does tend to ramble, doesn’t he?! I laughed at the explanation of why the inn has been run by the same family for years, about the man taking the girl’s name. LOL. I liked the conversation between Elladan and Elrohir. Elladan seems so in awe of what his brother did and yet so concerned too. It must have been frightening for him to see Elrohir collapse like that, no matter how well he is now. And I can’t blame Elrohir for being curious about his ability. It’ll take a lot of self-control for him not to experiment again, especially if he feels someone needs his help. I thought Elrond and Celebrían handled the ‘promises’ discussion very well. I loved how bewildered and happy Appleton was to have his dog back. Poor Elrohir, though. And I thought you did a great job with the ‘trial’. It was probably the best way to sort it out and I particularly like the sense of a close community. They all know each other and despite being understandably frustrated with these boys, they all genuinely want to help them too. I do feel sorry for Will. As hard as it is to say, I get the impression that he would indeed be better off away from his mother. I was glad Elrond was able to reassure Elrohir that he’s not the only one to feel the strain of healing and let him know how proud he us. Very sensible of him too to make Elrohir promise to wait until he’s properly trained.

Bodkin · 5 August 2005 · Chapter 7: Discoveries And Surprises

Poor Bob. His mother is a liability. Will is undoubtedly better off without his - and he seems to have developed a bit of common sense, along with a bit of skill. I'm glad to see that Celebrian and Elrond are happy to let the twins have the puppies. Which should add to the interest of the journey home! Trust the twins to feel that two puppies can't be happy if separated. And Appleton is probably quite happy to part with two of nine. More young twin stories? Please?

pipinheart · 2 August 2005 · Chapter 7: Discoveries And Surprises

This was a very sweet story of the twins. will fix the knife at no charge and said he was sorry,what a surprise...And Elrohir got his dog in a different way, they have two... Very well done...

pipinheart · 2 August 2005 · Chapter 7: Discoveries And Surprises

This was a very sweet story of the twins. will fix the knife at no charge and said he was sorry,what a surprise...And Elrohir got his dog in a different way, they have two... Very well done...

Kitty · 2 August 2005 · Chapter 7: Discoveries And Surprises

That was a surprise - I hadn't thought Will would prove better than Harry. But his new work seems to have a positive effect on him. The idea with the puppies was sweet! Even if they could've taken Draug with them, he probably would not have lived much longer. To have the puppies as a memento to this adventure is so much better, they can live so much longer with them. And the puppies are probably as adventurous of spirit as their new masters, what should be more fun for the twins. Thank you for sharing this!

Nilmandra · 2 August 2005 · Chapter 7: Discoveries And Surprises

It is a good ending to the story - that Will turned out so well is great, but most of the time we don't get 100%, so its not surprising about Bob. And puppies! Would Elladan and Elrohir like another one? The puppy from Mordor would love to come for a visit...

elliska · 1 August 2005 · Chapter 7: Discoveries And Surprises

Oh I liked the way that turned out. I was as surprised as the twins by Will's offer to fix the knife (and as doubtful about the outcome) and I was still more shocked by his apology and his free work. Good for him. I'm glad it turned out well for him, poor kid. And Harry doesn't surprise me--as long as his mother is there making excuses for him, he'll never learn. And of course I loved the puppies. I'm glad they got them both. That was very generous and kind/understanding of Appleton. This was a great story, Jay. I really enjoyed it. :-)

French Pony · 1 August 2005 · Chapter 7: Discoveries And Surprises

Elrond and Celebrían are kind and indulgent parents indeed, to accept not one, but two puppies without a second thought. But the twins are now clearly responsible enough to take care of them, which I think they were not at the beginning of the story. Will seems to have accepted his lot in life, though I'm not sure how heartfelt his apology was. But he understands that it was necessary, and that, at least, is progress. And everyone else remembers the family fondly. They've made friends, learned something about Elrohir, and acquired new pets. I'd say the trip was a rousing success. Am I mistaken, or did you have a wedding anniversary recently? If so, mazel tov!

daw the minstrel · 1 August 2005 · Chapter 7: Discoveries And Surprises

Lovely ending, Jay. I can see how Will benefited from doing work that he could learn to do well and be valued. That final image of the puppies riding in the baskets reminded me of my nephew, who once moved from Utah to Arizona (a VERY long way) on a bicycle with all his belongings and his dog in a side car.

elliska · 30 July 2005 · Chapter 6: Return To Bree

Poor kids--I think Elrohir is madder that he broke his gift than he is that he had the opportunity to experience more healing lessons (and everything Elrond does from now on is a lesson whether he likes it or not, poor elf). You did a good job showing the other aspects of healing--making medicines and dealing with people. I hope his knife can be fixed. You also did a funny job with the silent 'I told you so's.' :-) But I laughed out loud at this: Eilenach exchanged a quick glance with his companion, and grinned. “If the twins would prefer to be with Lord Elrond,” he began, “we do not mind if you share our room, my lady – do we, Ilmarin?” and I about died laughing at this: “I – I think I have just been propositioned,” Ilmarin murmured. It was bound to happen eventually in Bree. Too funny. Poor guard, but better him than Elrond--the twins would have been really scandalized then! :-) Hmmm and I am worried about the end part. Don't be too long updating this.

pipinheart · 27 July 2005 · Chapter 6: Return To Bree

Poor elrohir, he cut his hand, though Elladan did warn him... His father scowlded him for trying to look as his father looked at his hand. Will is still mad at them, I wonder if he will begin trouble again...

French Pony · 27 July 2005 · Chapter 6: Return To Bree

I love the idea of a whore propositioning an Elf. Elves just aren't afraid of Men . . . except for that. I love it. Unfortunately, I've forgotten how long they were supposed to stay in Mithlond. It seems like a year or so, though, given that Will is already blacksmithing. And Elrohir gets his first lesson, learning just how much there is still to learn. Seems like Elladan, at least, will get lots of practice. Elrohir seems rather accident-prone. But I bet the fossil was cool.

daw the minstrel · 27 July 2005 · Chapter 6: Return To Bree

I felt for Elrohir here. I've done stupid things like that and wished I could press undo. Elrond is good as both healer and father here. For some reason, I really liked the line in which he says to let him see the damage to the dagger. That just felt natural.

elliska · 21 July 2005 · Chapter 5: Discussions And Decisions

I was out of town and this was a nice surprise to come back to. I liked the town meeting and how the boys were handled--just what they needed, obviously. Poor Will. His life will likely be better now. And I liked the conversation Elrond had with the twins. Poor things have had a rough time of it. Elrond needs to help them find a pet when they return to Imladris. I felt sorry for them losing Draug, but of course they had to. And one detail--I really like Butterbur in this. He seems exactly right. And I liked the story about one of the Butterburs only having daughters. That made me laugh since my huband gives me a joking hard time for not taking his name when we married. Great chapter! :-)

Kitty · 20 July 2005 · Chapter 5: Discussions And Decisions

Although they are quite excited and worried, this would've been the perfect opportunity to tell the twins about their birth. But I see, you can't write it, because Elrond waited nearly two thousand years longer ... that's the problem if all the stories are to fit together, isn't it? But I love exactly this - it is a little universe of his own for every author, and I love to discover the little pieces that connect the fics. I love the idea Elrohir has not only healed Draugs injuries, but the problems of his old age as well. No wonder poor Elrohir was so exhausted afterwards. Well, I seem not to be the only one who doubt Elrohir is able to hold his promise not to use his abilities again without proper training. It is still a long way to Mithlond, and knowing you, it will not be without incidents ;-) The punishment for the boys was appropriate, I think. They both need someone to lead them because Will's mother doesn't care for him at all and Bob's is obviously not able to achieve anything with her son.

pipinheart · 19 July 2005 · Chapter 5: Discussions And Decisions

This is very nice, Poor Elrohir is confussed and worried about his gift...I believe their mother is right and should be told why Elrohir gift perhaps came earily,because of his birth.Yet that might make him nervous...Love to hear more of what those troublesome two can get into...

Bodkin · 19 July 2005 · Chapter 5: Discussions And Decisions

Well - it's a good long while before they do find out about the circumstances surrounding their birth. And it was, as I recall, rather a shock. Would it be better to tell them now - I don't know. After a shock and far from home - circumstances probably not ideal. I don't think the 'don't use healing again; you're not ready' promise is going to work either. Picture: Elladan gravely injured. Elrond not available. Does anyone really think that Elrohir wouldn't dive in to save his brother, even at the risk of his own life? Or that he wouldn't think the result outweighs the danger if it were his mother who was hurt? Or Elrond? I'm glad Draug/Garm is so well - and returned to a second youth. And the unofficial council of Bree seems to have come to very reasonable and non-violent conclusions in their dealing with the two boys. And, hopefully, some steady discipline and hard work will give the two of them something else to think about. Will could do with being removed from his mother's care. And Bob obviously needs more than his mother can give him. (I wonder if Will is the long-divided ancestor of the lovely Bill Ferny?) And the adventure goes on! I hope we get to see Mithlond. But I doubt they'll get there without more adventures. I look forward to them!

LOTR lover · 18 July 2005 · Chapter 5: Discussions And Decisions

I'm glad you updated, Jay. I'm enjoying this story very much, even though I haven't reviewed till now. I'm glad that Elrohir discovered his abilities, even though the poor dog had to suffer. And Garm got an extra benefit from it--poor Elrohir was like a fountain of youth to him! Looks like he wasn't just healing a wound; in his inexperience he was healing the ravages of age as well. No wonder it took so much out of him! It's a good thing that boy knocked him away from the dog, after all. Elrond and Celebrian are certainly wise parents. I both do and don't agree with Elrond's decision not to tell Elrohir about the circumstances of his birth--he should be told, yes, but on top of everything else that's happened, that might well be too much information for him. Better later, but as Celebrian said, not too much later. I like the punishments the Bree-folk gave the boys. Will does get a second chance, and maybe he'll come to be sorry for what he's done. The other one though, Bob, doesn't seem to be very grateful for his new job. Sometimes I wonder which kind of mother is worse--Will's sort or Bob's. Again, I'm glad you updated. I always enjoy reading your work.

Nilmandra · 18 July 2005 · Chapter 5: Discussions And Decisions

I like the use of justice in this small town....put the boys to work, get them apprenticed so that an adult is in charge of them, as they need (and want). I think the elves would like this kind of justice. I was just thinking too that Elrond made the twins make a promise they really couldn't promise to keep :/

Lianna · 18 July 2005 · Chapter 5: Discussions And Decisions

Great chapter, but... Why do I think that Elrohir's promise not to attempt another healing is going to be broken? And soon!

daw the minstrel · 18 July 2005 · Chapter 5: Discussions And Decisions

The "trial" was interesting. It's hard to know what a society like that would do with such boys and your solution seems a good one to me. I've been reading about life in medieval villages and a lot of crime was punished by fines. Crime was a source of income for the lord, it seems. The dog was charming. Too bad Elrohir couldn't keep him. I'm not sure that keeping the circumstances of Elrohir's birth from the twins is a good idea. Secrets often come back to bite you.

French Pony · 18 July 2005 · Chapter 5: Discussions And Decisions

It's ironic that, for all his talk of honor and truth and keeping promises, Elrond can't bring himself to tell the twins what happened when they were born. But people can be weird like that, I guess. Celebrian is right; the twins have a right to be told before they find out on their own, but we don't always get what we have a right to. The people of Bree seem like good folks. They really understand that it takes a village to raise a child, and the village comes to pitch in with these two. But there's still Harry to be dealt with, and he may return to make trouble later.