Kitty
· 26 August 2008
· Chapter 6: Moon Over Rhosgobel
Ah, I knew it, that had to be poison. And a very nasty one, from the looks of it. If it causes hallucinations and paranoia, then that explains a lot.
Um ... did I mention before that you’re evil? ;)
I feel really sorry for Elrond and Glorfindel, but I am sure they realise it was not Estel speaking when he was making his accusations. Still, it is not easy to deal with such an experience. But somehow I am glad Elrond told Estel what he said in his delirium; as the lad realised that he had said something ... unfortunate anyway, it was better than to keep things silent and Estel wondering, I guess. And now the matter's out of the way, hopefully forever.
The visit of Thorongil was a high honour, though his last words were rather cryptic for anyone who doesn’t know the details of the Ring War yet. I’m sure Aragorn will remember them later on, after the fall of Barad-dur.
Author's reply
That combination is very deadly and Estel is lucky to be alive and sane. It will take some time for the wounds (both physical and emotional) to heal but they will and they will all be stronger for it.
Kitty
· 26 August 2008
· Chapter 5: Bad Ithil Rising
‚Lord Stupid Elf’? *LOL* Always courteous, our dear Elrond ;)
Ouch. I’m beginning to fear they have lost their manners somewhere during the chase – all of them! First Elrond being nasty to Radagast, then Elrond and Glorfindel shouting at each other, and now Estel isn’t exactly nice to the two elves, either.
And what on earth is Estel talking about?? Elrond wanting to kill him? That’s such a nonsense! Poor Elrond, that was a terrible shock for him.
Uh. *Black* blood? Looks like there was some sort of poison in the wound! *runs off to next chapter*
Author's reply
The stress of traveling and what has happened with Estel has put everyone on edge. They'll become more civilized once things calm down.
Kitty
· 26 August 2008
· Chapter 4: Orcs Get In Your Eyes
Orcs and wargs! You don’t give them any respite, do you? You were right, you’re getting even more evil. But if I’m not completely mistaken, that is the scene Glorfindel dreamt of so many years ago in Valinor and that led him to ask Aldarion to teach him the use of the great war bow.
Hm, Elrond is suspecting that someone is pursuing the heir of Elendil here, isn’t he? And he and Glorfindel do know who is buried under these mounds?
Oh, Manwë’s eagles and the Beornings to the rescue! Love that idea. Obviously Manwë himself wants Estel to survive. What a pity that Estel probably will never truly remember this flight. But it's a nice idea that he honoured the eagle that saved him in taking his name later on in Rohan and Gondor. And I see Radagast has already realised who Estel truly is.
I notice Glorfindel’s sword is named Daenagnir here. What did he do with Aranna?
Author's reply
This is definitely the road trip from hell, that's for sure. lol And you are correct that this is the scene that Glorfindel foresaw. When I wrote this story, 'Elf Interrupted' was not even a glimmer in my mind. I suspect that even for the elves they might have different swords over time. Perhaps Glorfindel left Aranna behind in trust for his eventual return. We'll have to see.
Kitty
· 25 August 2008
· Chapter 3: Haven't Got Time for the Naeg
Uh, Estel smashed into the pines? Glad he seems to have come out of this without broken bones. He *really* should have listened to his horse! There’s a saying that translates to „Leave the thinking to the horses, they have the bigger heads“ and there is some truth in it sometimes ;)
But really, Glorfindel telling him Elrond is having the time of his life is just ridiculous *lol* And somehow I am not sure more outings with Ada would be healthy for Estel *evil grin* Oh well, I’m glad they can still joke around.
Love the story Glorfindel used to cheer Estel up – from Elrond getting the army lost up to Glorfindel telling the rain to stop. You know, I could use our favourite balrog-slayer and this amazing ability now and then – whichever deity is responsible for the weather here, it is *never* listening to me!
Author's reply
I think Glorfindel was just trying to assure Estel that his adar did not regret bringing him on the trip. As for the weather deity... I'm afraid I have no influence with him/her. Sorry.
Kitty
· 25 August 2008
· Chapter 2: Misty Mountain High
Poor Estel – being sick is no fun, and he must feel bad for holding up the journey and all. But with all this wind and rain, it’s no wonder he got a cold. Well, at least he was with Elrond, who knows what to do and had the medicinal supplies as well. And it’s nice to see Glorfindel as a nurse ;)
And of course, Estel has barely recovered and now you’re throwing him down a cliff or something ... evil author!
Author's reply
It does help to have the greatest healer in Middle-earth around when you're not feeling well. *grin*
The ultimate cliffhanger... throwing someone down a cliff. *grin* And I just get even more evil as the story progresses.
Kitty
· 24 August 2008
· Chapter 1: Rainy Days and Orithiliath
*lol* Love Elrond’s and Glorfindel’s banter at the beginning. Though I am with Glorfindel here – I prefer my rides in dry weather.
Estel and the twins together were fun as well. What a pity that Elladan and Elrohir don’t accompany them! I’m sure it would be a lot of fun to have them around. (And I happen to love them quite a bit)
Loved the flashback to five-year-old Estel asking for a brother to play with. It is understandable that he thinks brothers are only there to play with him, not to go on patrol duty or other useless tasks. The poor little guy must have been very lonely sometimes, without any playmates even remotely his age. And obviously he still has the same problem now, when even the younger Rangers look at him as their Chieftain, not as their friend. No wonder he’s hoping to befriend Legolas.
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. So you've decided to re-read this story too. That's great. I had debated about having the twins come along but in the end decided that would've made it too cumbersome trying to keep track of all those elves. Poor Estel would've been lost in the crowd. *grin* And I did give them their own adventure later on.
Anyway, I'm sure Estel's childhood was lonely at times not having children his own age to play with, but I don't think it was all that terrible either. Still, we all want to have 'friends' who can let us be ourselves and not this role or that role and that's what Estel is looking for (and eventually finds) in Legolas.
Larner
· 26 February 2008
· Chapter 15: Epilogue: Sweet Home Imladris
Now he sets out to meet his destiny, and his mother worries for him. And you see her remaining within Imladris, do you?
Now we see how the partnership of Aragorn and Gilhael started, and we see Halbarad beginning to appreciate his future position amongst the northern Dunedain.
Author's reply
I think Gilhael might have stayed in Imladris. It has become her home and while she might visit her kin among the Dúnedain, I think she would've remained in Imladris for Aragorn's sake.
Halbarad, of course, has his own destiny to fulfill and this will be only the first of many separations that will culminate in the final separation between these two on the Pelennor Fields. Gilhael, of course, is a figment of my imagination, but hopefully he will find a place in the hearts of my readers.
Thank you for reviewing.
Larner
· 25 February 2008
· Chapter 14: A Hundred Bottles of Dorwinion On the Wall
Hopefully the return trip will be nowhere as exciting as the original trip was. And the chess board sounds beautiful.
Author's reply
I like playing chess though I don't get much opportunity but I thought turning the boar's tusks into a chess set an appropriate gift for Aragorn.
Larner
· 25 February 2008
· Chapter 13: Dream a Little Dream of Arwen
Poor Aragorn has been through the mill in this story, and now we have him being compared to Arwen? Now, that is quite the idea!
And your appropriations of song titles for chapter titles become more amusing! Have you ever read Primsong's "Nothing of Note?" I think you'd truly appreciate her humor, chapter titles, and names for visiting Dwarves.
Author's reply
No, I haven't read Primsong's story, but I'll look it up. Thanks.
I didn't so much think Elrond was comparing Aragorn to Arwen so much as comparing the circumstances of walking across the hall into someone's waiting arms.
Larner
· 25 February 2008
· Chapter 12: A-Farad We Will Go
I am rather enjoying the chapter titles, of course. And once again Aragorn has taken more than his share of injury, this time of his own volition to safeguard the children. Interesting way of dealing with a bore! He ought to have been properly equipped with a boarspear--would have been safer, of course! And of course now he'll need those exercises!
Author's reply
The chapter titles just sort of came beginning with the first one because it happened to be a Monday and it was raining. LOL
Aragorn and the others probably didn't think they were going to encounter the boar right then and there, being more concerned with tracking the whereabouts of the children. Next time, hopefully, he'll go more prepared.
Larner
· 25 February 2008
· Chapter 11: Have Yourself a Merry Little Penninor
Ah, he's been to the Elves' version of a chapel, then? Interesting. And he shows he is the proper one to take on the task of facing Sauron himself? Excellent!
Love the encounters with Men and the dealing with the recalcitrant young son to the Master. This kid has a LOT to learn about dealing with others; and I find I like his father better than the son.
Aragorn is doing well by all here, and showing the skills he brings to his kingship when the time finally comes.
Author's reply
Yes, the Rainbow Chamber is the elves' iaun or fane, sanctuary, much like where you have Olórin take Frodo for healing in Tol Eressëa.
I had fun with the Man thinking Aragorn was one of the young men from Lake-town and then the young pup trying to lord it over the future King of Gondor and Arnor. *grin*
I think the elves of the Woodland Realm are taking their cues from Legolas and seeing how their prince is treating this particular Adan. The Sindar and Silvan elves might have little use for the Edain but even they know about Isildur's Heir and act accordingly.
Larner
· 24 February 2008
· Chapter 10: We're Off to See the Ithron
Two princes destined for greatness and the final journey against Sauron--of course Evil Wills would wish them to become lost NOW.
Oh, unless you're writing the contraction for "it is," you should write "its" rather than "it's." Now the English teacher in me is coming to the fore! Heh!
Author's reply
Yes. I'm sure the sudden storm was more than just a fluke, but luckily Gandalf was there to see to their safety. And thanks for the correction. Even my beta missed them and she rarely misses anything.
Larner
· 24 February 2008
· Chapter 9: Meet Me In Thranduil's Stronghold
And we see the growth of the relationship we see in the films. Thranduil is a bit--intense! Heh!
Author's reply
Thranduil is less refined than Elrond or Glorfindel, but he's not evil, and I wanted to show that.
Larner
· 24 February 2008
· Chapter 8: Elven Roads (Take Me Home)
You had to mirror that scene in TTT, didn't you? Although I always love seeing Aragorn break into the grin and laughter. A continuing scenario between the two of them? And the trip through the trees sounds interesting!
Author's reply
I always thought that the way Viggo and Orlando played that scene in TTT that there was a history behind the words. It just sounded like an old joke between them so I found the perfect opportunity to show where it originated. *grin*
Larner
· 24 February 2008
· Chapter 7: Into the Taur of No Return
Poor Estel--he's having about every kind of bad luck possible! Now what's going to happen? Is this where he meets Legolas or Gandalf?
Author's reply
I'm sure by now Aragorn is wondering just who among the Valar he's offended lately. LOL As to whom he meets...
Larner
· 24 February 2008
· Chapter 6: Moon Over Rhosgobel
Aconite? It's a wonder he wasn't paralyzed! Nasty stuff! And ergot, of all things! Have seen a couple people paranoid on LSD--not a nice thing to observe.
And now the healing comes, strengthening the bonds, for they've been tested and have held.
And the hope unlooked for? Well, we know about that!
Author's reply
Yes, a very nasty combination, but then orcs aren't nice people anyway. And the healing begins and with it strengthening of bonds. The healing won't be immediate but it will come.
Larner
· 24 February 2008
· Chapter 5: Bad Ithil Rising
Not precisely the most politic things for either Aragorn or Glorfindel to say at the moment. But Aragorn is very ill and weak, and that can lead to paranoia.
Love the birds criticizing the harping! Heh!
Now, to see Estel back on the road to healing once more.
Author's reply
Poison can do that sort of thing to a person. I thought the birds criticizing Elrond's playing a nice touch, myself. *grin* Healing will come; trust, however, may take some time to be regained.
Larner
· 23 February 2008
· Chapter 4: Orcs Get In Your Eyes
No fool, Radagast! And love his irony: "I see my fame precedes me." Have to love the Brown Wizard. And I'm glad you, too, have seen him living in a home gifted him by living trees! I've loved that image for so long!
Author's reply
I was never satisfied with how Tolkien portrayed Radagast and have assumed that Gandalf's description is actually how Saruman perceives him, so I wanted to write him as being much wiser and knowing than people think, and I couldn't see him living in anything but a bower.
Larner
· 23 February 2008
· Chapter 3: Haven't Got Time for the Naeg
A most amusing anecdote! And I feel with young Aragorn.
Author's reply
I'm sure we all do. *grin*
Larner
· 23 February 2008
· Chapter 2: Misty Mountain High
Aha! I managed to identify the proper lullaby! I thought so! Maybe there is some hope of me learning Sindarin and Quenya some day after all.
And he didn't listen to the wisdom of his horse--a mistake I doubt he'll make a second time. And Elrond was worried when he was sick? What will he do now that there will undoubtedly be a break or two?
Author's reply
I thought it would be fun to try and translate a RL lullaby into an Elvish equivalent. I'm glad you were able to identify it without having to check the notes.
As for what condition Aragorn will be in when they finally find him....
Larner
· 23 February 2008
· Chapter 1: Rainy Days and Orithiliath
There is always room for friends in one's life. It's only to be expected Aragorn would wish for such things.
Author's reply
And Aragorn hasn't had the opportunity to make friends who are his peers, so he feels a bit left out of things others take for granted.
Larner
· 23 February 2008
· Chapter 0: Prologue
Am finally getting around to this one.
Author's reply
Hopw you enjoy it.
Kestrel
· 30 January 2008
· Chapter 15: Epilogue: Sweet Home Imladris
Well, I'm certainly glad Aragorn is back in Imladris and all in one piece! Probably no more so than Aragorn himself, I guess. I had my doubts there a few times, and I was afraid something was going to happen on the trip back! Maybe an attack by Beorn's bees...LOL This was very enjoyable all the way through. I especially liked the friendship with Legolas, and Mithrandir, and how he even wins over Thranduil. Your characterization overall is very good, all of them quite believable. I'll be reading more of your stories XD
Author's reply
I'm sure Aragorn was VERY happy to be home safe, if not necessarily sound. LOL I'm glad you enjoyed this story and I'm happy to see you will be reading more of my stories. There is a sequel to this story (more seriously written) called "Stirrings of Shadow". It picks up where "Tad Edhel" leaves off, more or less. Thanks for reviewing.
Kestrel
· 29 January 2008
· Chapter 7: Into the Taur of No Return
I knew when Elrond said "We made better time than I had hoped" that something bad was going to happen to Aragorn again. I was thinking spiders, or that he would fall into the Enchanted stream and sleep until next year. Maybe Elrond really "is" trying to get him killed? Nah! Can't wait to see how this ends! XD
Author's reply
But of course! Isn't that how it's supposed to go? LOL And no, Elrond isn't trying to get him killed, though considering all that is happening to the poor smuck, you have to wonder just which one of the Valar he pissed off. LOL Glad you're enjoying the story. Thanks for reviewing.
Shoshana_Rose
· 31 August 2007
· Chapter 11: Have Yourself a Merry Little Penninor