Reviews (1,161)

obsidianj · 13 August 2007 · Chapter 116: The New Year's Ball

Heh, heh, heh. They outsmarted Almariel. She should have been more precise *grin*. And I love Eonwe and his book of oaths. Seems like he has more and more work to do as the story unfolds...

MJ · 12 August 2007 · Chapter 116: The New Year's Ball

Okay, I needed a laugh, and the last paragraph provided it. One shudders to think what Almáriel said to perturb the seemingly imperturbable Eönwë! I daresay there are days he wishes some other servant of the Valar would give him a vacation from the Book of Oaths. ("Wait, wait, would you swear a little more slowly? I'm having trouble getting this all down...!" :)

Nieriel Raina · 12 August 2007 · Chapter 116: The New Year's Ball

Well, I read this when you posted it, but have had a sick kid so am behind in reviewing. I really enjoyed this chapter, especially the descriptions of the palace. Very nice! I want to visit! And I truly enjoyed Finrod pulling Amarie aside and Sador and Glorfindel standing guard. I assume that since Amarie isn't very happy with her mother over the whole ordeal, this is why she took pleasure in the joke? And I did appreciate those few moments of silence. *wink* I am curious as to Amarie's easy agreement to the 12 year wait. Of course, she has changed from that elleth who was so eager to marry no matter what and is more understanding of Finrod's need to grow and settle into his new life. As a woman though, I can imagine her chaffing at the bit some, no matter how much fun it is to pull one over on her mother like that. Too bad her mother wasn't a little less sober... I think my favorite part were all the Valar showing up for the announcement and being as interested as everyone else! And I had no doubts Arafinwe knew his son well enough to win the bet. I love the friendly wagering throughout this story, though I am opposed to obsessive gambling. But this is just friendly fun and it adds great personality to the storyline. A wonderful chapter, Fiondil. You never fail to give us wonderful chapters! I look forward to more, but have fun while you travel. I can be patient. *returns to most interesting book by Stephen Lawhead* NiRi

Anonymous · 11 August 2007 · Chapter 116: The New Year's Ball

I really like this chapter. It is very well done, but that's not a suprise! *clap-clap for a story well done* I do have some questions though Fiondil. 1~Is there going to be more of Lord Castamir? 2~Why did Amarie agree on the wedding to be 12 years from then? 3~Why does Finrod want it then too? 4~Is Lady Almariel going to be appearing again? It was funny when Eonwe and his Book of Oaths appeared. 5~Why is it so important for Finrod and Amarie to wed? 6~Is Amarie trying to prove she is a faithful elleth when she doesn't dance with any 'unattached' ellyn? I do loved the last paragraph! I could imagine it so easily. From Ingwe ruefully giving money to his nephew all the way to the chaos of the ballroom. The description you gave for the setting reminded me of a French castle. "...were panels of floor-to-ceiling mirrors reflecting tht light from the mithril-wrought candelabras that stood elf=high before each mirror." This sentence brought to mind the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles, France. *If I lived in the palace you have described I probably might never leave the house!* Sorry about the 'million' questions! Happy writing!

Kitty · 11 August 2007 · Chapter 116: The New Year's Ball

Oh Fiondil, this chapter was so much fun! When Ingwë talked about who would disrupt the ball first, I started grinning, because I knew, of course, about the ‚Midsummer’ matter, and wasn’t able to stop grinning through the whole chapter. I’d set my money on Finrod, too! It appears Amarië wasn’t adverse to the whole trick, considering Glorfindel and Sador heard her giggling. Well, even if she has to wait a bit longer, they are elves, after all, so what are these few years for them? And she has to appreciate the deviousness of her intended. Though, of course, I can’t say the same of Almariel *evil grin* Nice idea to have the Valar show up for the announcement – I am sure they even knew what Finrod was planning and were very amused themselves. And when Eönwe showed up to so publicly write down Almariel’s oaths I laughed so hard I nearl fell out of my chair. That was priceless! Well, that was a New Year Ball the elves of Aman will remember for a very long time, no doubt! And the same goes for your readers. Thank you for this wonderful chapter! It truly made my day!

utfrog98 · 11 August 2007 · Chapter 116: The New Year's Ball

This series is delightful. Your ability to mix a serious story with both gentle and outrageous humor is notable. Thank you so very much.

Nieriel Raina · 10 August 2007 · Chapter 25: Feasts and Follies

I love this chapter. I must say it is one of my favorites, mostly because I love the idea of Glorfindel dancing around without a stich of clothing. *blush* Well, I can't help it! He is my favorite elf. *grin* And Finrod just adds icing to an already scrumptious subtlety. Oh yea, and Varda singing verse 31 is perfect. *wink* I love how emotional your elves and Valar are! I hate it when I read elf stories and I feel like they are Commander Data from Star Trek. I much rather real, living feeling elves, and the touch of mischievous is wonderful. I'm still here re-reading slowly (don't you just hate real life sometimes?) and looking longingly at my inbox wishing for an update. Got one from Bodkin but that isn't nearly as exciting as getting one from you. *pouts* Great job and all that verbal praise stuff. NiRi

Redpike · 10 August 2007 · Chapter 115: A Meeting With Parents

First off, I'd like to tell you how tremendously I have enjoyed this story. You, (along with Claudi007) have turned me from hobbits to elves. You first drew me in with your clever title, and your Glorfindal sucked me in. The busybody Valar in your story do disturb me a bit; I'm thinking Feanor had the right idea to run off to middle-earth. This chapter also disturbed me. As a mother, I would fight tooth and nail anyone who tried to take my child away for a year for trespassing (In Valinor, no less, where there is little strife). Finrod needs to get over his siege mentality. I'm sorry this is the first time I've reviewed, I'm a hard-core lurker and really appreciate your writing.

hanci · 8 August 2007 · Chapter 115: A Meeting With Parents

I think many parents would react as did Oromendil's father but everything went well. Finrod is gaining quite a retinue(?), isn't he? Glorfindel will think his stay in Imladris a holiday, after Aman...

NiRi · 5 August 2007 · Chapter 13: iAndondi Entulessëo

Hey Fiondil! *waves* Yes, I'm re-reading whilst awaiting more updates. *grin* And I noted that the note from Námo is different in the text and in the notes. In the text it is: Anglenna vellon gîn in Ennyn Aderthad - while in your notes it is: Mellon gîn anglenna in Ennyn Aderthad. I am attempting to learn some Sindarin (sadly lacking and not making much progress either) So... which is it? *grin* NiRi

Nieriel Raina · 5 August 2007 · Chapter 115: A Meeting With Parents

Am I behind again? Oh bother... Fiondil, I simply cannot tell you how much your description of the Valar, and expecially Lord Námo, touch me to the core. It awakes a longing deep within for things that simply do not exist in today's world. The Valar remind me of how spiritual leaders should be, gently always pointing to the Source. Námo's care of Glorfindel always pierces me (even when he pretends to be all huffy and not caring). And if I say more, I'll cry. It was not hard to believe Glorfindel had just had too much. I know I was overwhelmed by Ingwë's apology. But my poor elf! I wasn't at all surprised that he had been released from Mandos early as well, though I was surprised Námo admitted it to those present. 'Oromendil’s atar spoke up, sounding somewhat belligerent. "What do you mean to do with them then? Turn them into thralls like that... what’s his name... that Noldo brat?"' OH MY! I'm with Agape4 on that! Dem's fightin words! And I HAVE my swords right here handy hanging over my desk! *arms self* Wow, they still have a long way to go, don't they? I do sympathize with the parents, but on the other hand, if MY girl had been up to something like that? I think I'd offer her up! *grin* A year with Finrod would do her good, though she'd be as sulky as Vorondil about not being able to train with a sword. Child beats up the neighborhood boys! *shakes head* I'm off subject. I am surprised that Finrod choose this course, however, hasn't he been reprimanded by the Feanturi for taking on Vorondil? *scratches head trying to remember* I thought his taking on people got him in trouble? Though I do think it is good exposure for the kiddies. If you want to bring change you start with the young people, who are sure to affect their parents when they return. *grins* Loved Glorfindel being lumped with the elflings! And think he would be highly insulted. LOL! And here I am, left wanting more and more and more. *sighs and looks at empty inbox* Guess I'll have to wait. Thank you for another wonderful chapter! NiRi

Agape4Gondor · 5 August 2007 · Chapter 115: A Meeting With Parents

I just had to stop reading after the first part and sit back and take a few quiet gulps of air myself. Beautifully written... dearest Glorfindel - what a shock! And Ingwe was perfect!!!! 'Oromendil’s atar spoke up, sounding somewhat belligerent. "What do you mean to do with them then? Turn them into thralls like that... what’s his name... that Noldo brat?"' OK _ those are fighting words!!! Where'd my sword??? I'll lay the scoundrel low! My heart really went out to the parents of the elflings, though. It is a hard thing to have to 'leave' your children in the hands of one you do not know for such a long time - but it had to be done. Great chapter... *sits drumming her fingers waiting for the next and the next and the next.....*

Kitty · 5 August 2007 · Chapter 115: A Meeting With Parents

Well, I suppose it was only to be expected that Glorfindel is still in a state of shock, poor guy. Over the last time, there has happened a bit too much to him. No wonder the Maiar were so worried his fëa would run away again. After reprimanded even by Lord Námo, Ingwë - and probably not only he – will probably be much more careful before putting Glorfindel through anything like this any time in the near future again. It was about time Námo told them what he did; maybe he should have done it earlier. But of course, if he’d done it, then what about the story? ;-) The three older Kings have to understand that the Reborn are not always as strong as the Once-born, at least not in the first few years. I’m wondering about these elflings. It just struck me that while in Finrod’s care, they’ll learn quite a bit about the Reborn and the elves returned from Middle-earth, and that can only be a good thing. So there would be at least some elves in this generation thinking a bit different about them than the older elves of Aman. Good to know Veryandur and Eruanna got better off than the other three. And of course, I was amused that Finrod counted Glorfindel among the elflings. Somehow I am not sure our dear balrog-slayer would agree to be counted among those so very young *grin*

eiluj · 5 August 2007 · Chapter 115: A Meeting With Parents

A very satisfying chapter! (I’ve been waiting impatiently for Námo to tell off Ingwë -- i.e. explain just *why* it was such a bad idea -- for a couple of months now! And that’s a couple of months *my* time, as well as time in the story.) “The Ball will not start for a couple of hours yet” -- Well, why not: they’re elves, they don’t really need sleep. “Tra-la-la-lally” and all that. Námo addressing them as “Once-born” -- The Once-born feel their state is the norm for elves. Elves are immortal; they don’t die (in Aman, at least, the vast majority of them). Elves who die are an aberration: and it’s not quite decent! What the Once-born don’t realize is that the norm for elves was always intended to be larger than the Once-born’s own situation, and now a whole new -- and much more complicated -- norm has come into play for elvendom as a whole. And it’ll doubtless take an age for the new reality to be understood and accepted.... Ingwion had removed the crown of state -- I think you mean “Ingwë.” In service to Finrod for a year! That’ll complicate things in many ways -- not that Finrod isn’t capable of handling an increasingly-larger and more complex entourage. I’m wondering about Amarië’s reaction when she finally realizes that this sort of thing not only keeps happening to Finrod, but is actually *typical* for him. (It also fits right in with Beor & co.) Looking forward to the Lóriennildi’s reaction to the pack of elven kids....

Tira · 5 August 2007 · Chapter 115: A Meeting With Parents

"Glorfindel of course" perfect! and so glad that it's all good concerning the children. How does Finrod get himself into these messes? how many little servants can he have????

eiluj · 5 August 2007 · Chapter 114: Reconciliation

That was a surprise. Good for Ingwë! And hopefully it will make enough of a difference for Glorfindel. Wondering how the “vultures” at court are reacting to this.... Alassiel still would not speak to him directly -- Well, she did actually answer Ingwë directly two chapters ago: “I only brought this upon myself, Uncle.”

MithLuin · 4 August 2007 · Chapter 114: Reconciliation

Awww, that was good of Ingwe. He *was* sorta a jerk, wasn't he? But as the oldest elf we've met, and a King for ages, he knows how to acknowledge his mistakes with grace and humility. The Valar did not need to intervene here! And Glorfindel took it as well as can be expected ;).

Rhyselle · 30 July 2007 · Chapter 114: Reconciliation

I'm surprised that Glorfindel hasn't paced a track in the anteroom's flooring! I did find his attempts to not attract Eonwe's attention amusing. I remember waiting to be called up before an awards board, waiting for the senior enlisteds to call me in to be grilled as to my suitability to be selected for an award. It was utterly nervewracking and I remember my supervisor was somewhat like Sador in response to my nerves. If it hadn't been for the fact that slugging a senior enlisted man could bring brig time, I might have taken a swing at him! Finrod, of course, knows what's going to happen, as does Sador, and that's probably irritating Glorfindel as well. I liked it that it was Sador who points out that Glorfindel brought it onto himself. The comment about not being the only one released from Mandos too soon was brilliant. I'm glad that Sador has come to a point where he can actually joke about his own situation while gently teasing his gwador. Even though he doesn't know the reason for his early release in detail nor the information about his family that he so desires, he's become content in just knowing that there is a reason, even if he doesn't know the particulars of it. The formal announcement of the three ellyn's titles is awesome. I bet Ingwe's formal recognition of Finrod publically as King of Nargothrond touched Finrod, even if he knew that was the way he was going to be announced. He (Ingwe) has been learning a lot about his nephew since that conversation with Manwe and Arafinwe during the trial recess. It's very good to see it acknowledged in front of everyone. Sador's introduction was good, too. I did notice that Glorfindel was only listed as the Balrog Slayer. One hopes that the next time he is formally announced to the court that we will hear of his status within Arafinwe's household along with that famous title. Much as when you described Olwe and Arafinwe's sitting in state at the trial, we get an immediate image of Ingwe-in-Majesty. That Crown of State looks absolutely impressive and seals the importance of this ceremony in the minds of all witnessing it. This is not a family situation that is being addressed but one that will affect the relationship not just of Glorfindel and Ingwe, but of the relationship between the Reborn and the Returnees and the leadership of the elves of Aman. Although we have seen mainly the personal effects of the rift on Glorfindel, I believe that all of the populace and the court have been affected by it in some degree or another. And that doesn't go into the personal issues of trust and obedience that Glorfindel has had to struggle with over the past months. There are still traitors out there who could take advantage of the rift and continue to harm the Peace of Aman, using Glorfindel's situation as a tool. It must have been so very hard to stand there and feel his gwedyr step away from him leaving Glorfindel alone before all of those eyes; some belonging to those who would like to see him continue in disgrace, others wanting to support him, and others who are just ghoulishly curious about what was going to happen. I actually do feel sorry for Ingwe... this has been as hard on him as on Glorfindel, I believe. And having his entire extended family angry with him was certainly no fun! Yet the burdens of kingship require hard choices to be made and required him to abide by them even thought it went against his heart. I think that you did a good job of showing that we should have as much sympathy for Ingwe as we have for Glorfindel. I thought that Ingwe apologizing publically to Martandur and Meriel was classy. I know he'd already done so privately but... well that was a neat foretaste of what comes later in the chapter. Glorfindel's reaction when his name was called and the panic he felt just grabbed me... but he showed his mettle and did what had to be done. I do think that if he'd started running at that point, it would have taken direct intervention by Lord Namo to stop his flight! I'm glad it didn't come to that. The words of apology were certainly heartfelt, albeit softly spoken, and Ingwe's response was all that anyone could have asked for... and I could feel the sincerity of his words. When Finwe removed his crown and handed it to Finrod, it grabbed me twice. The first time for the fact that the High King was humbling himself in front of everyone, and the second time because by having Finrod take the Crown of State, it seemed, at least to me, to imply another positive recognition of Finrod's kingship, since Finwe could have had his son, Ingwion, or one of the other Kings hold it for him. The mental image of the crownless Ingwe on his knees holding the kneeling and weeping Glorfindel touched me deeply. We stand highest when we humble ourselves, and this whole sequence was a powerful reminder of that. I don't think that any of the witnesses will ever forget this nor the feelings it gave to them as they watched. Glorfindel's befuddlement when Ingwe said there was one thing more to be done was totally understandable--this was an incredibly emotional experience thus far, putting things back in balance between himself and Ingwe. And when his sword-brothers braided his hair again, I felt that all was finally back to the way it was meant to be, even before Ingwe formally stated that the matter between the ellon and himself was closed. Why do I have a feeling that our Balrog Slayer probably needed to sit down once they were out of the sight of the rest of the court? *grin* One thing I didn't really get was why you described Ingwion at the end of the procession as having a grim appearance despite that smile. Was it because of the way he was dressed? I know that it's a trivial thing in the weightiness of the chapter, but I seem to be missing something there. An excellent chapter and I think you were right to post it by itself without another chapter before or after to distract from the importance of this moment. I look forward to the future events, both personal and political that will be affecting our beloved Reborn ellyn, and particularly to the next announcement that is due at the end of the ball!

Agape4Gondor · 30 July 2007 · Chapter 114: Reconciliation

'Glorfindel muttered an oath or two... for fear of having Eönwë show up with that damnable Book of his.' *giggles* Dearest Glorfindel really takes these things to heart. It is not so bad as having judgment in front of all the Valar - but the dear heart cannot see that at the moment. 'Glorfindel unconsciously straightened, suddenly going pale.' I find this so 'human' - that we tend to dig our own graves. '"He’s going about it the only way you left open," Sador said.' I love the titles the chamberlain announces - whoever told him to do that really did well. 'His Highness, Prince Findaráto, Haryon of the Noldóran and King of Nargothrond.' I love the full description of the Crown of State. If you had only written that he wore a Crown of State, it would not have carried the magnitude of why it was being worn. Very nice indeed. Pssst - I'm surprised Mistress Miriel was able to keep her tongue! Our dear Glorfindel is definitely maturing. '...wondered if the ellon would simply bolt.' What a great king Ingwe is, isn't he? Though I was livid at him before, this makes it all right. 'Ingwë remained kneeling, his expression one of calm...' Nice ending! Glad to see Glorfindel fully 'clothed.' 'Whatever else you may or may not be, now or in the future, you are always and foremost a warrior and you will wear the braids that you have earned.' Great chapter - as always!

MJ · 30 July 2007 · Chapter 114: Reconciliation

Being a new member and this my first review, I thought I should keep it... er... gentle. But I do have one question: Now that Ingwe's apologized, when is it the Valar's turn? What they've been doing to Glorfindel without his permission is perilously close to one of the things that alerted Gandalf to the fact that Saruman had gone bad: believing the ends justify the means (can't quote from memory the part of the conversation Gandalf reported to the Council of Elrond, but it was in there). If this kind of manipulation continues, Glorfindel is going to (or realistically, should) learn that he can't trust anyone, and I don't think that's what the Valar, or you, want. I've been reading and enjoying this story since you first posted it, but the ethical/psychological ramifications of this have been niggling at me since Ingwe "punished" Glorfindel. Otherwise, it's been an enjoyable read. :)

Calenlass · 30 July 2007 · Chapter 114: Reconciliation

It's been some time since I last left a review for this story, so I'll say that I'm still enjoying this immensely. Tolkien's elves and OC elves alike are all enjoyed. -Calenlass

Ellie · 29 July 2007 · Chapter 114: Reconciliation

My serious review with no sterilized eagles... Okay, I loved the way you resolved this issue between Ingwe and Glorfindel. I feared Glorfy would have to make an oath - especially after the way Eonwe behaved with his book last chapter. (BTW loved that comment about Eonwe and his book) I'm glad there was no oath involved. I was not at all expecting Ingwe to humble himself before Glorfindel and the court to ask forgiveness for his actions. (I also thought it was excellent that his wife got after him, too. teehee). This was an excellent chapter. The other chapters built up nicely to this and you have captured the dramatic tension and the settled the conflict quite nicely. The ending with the re-braiding was well done and nicely symbolized the return to status and grace of our intrepid hero. You are doing a wonderful job of developing subplots and tying them into major themes throughout this story. This is why it is so enjoyable on so many different levels. Well done and keep up the good work! Now how's that for a real review not involving sterilized eagles?

Nariel · 29 July 2007 · Chapter 114: Reconciliation

Well...I guess it evantully would come up that I am not crazy about a chapter... I just thought it didn't have much action, it was a more serious tone I think you wanted for this chapter. Well, I cannot wait for the other chapters! Thanks also for the tip about the multiple use of exclamation points and question marks. I definitely don't want to hack the system for SoA. I do hope that the next chapter will be more intriguing and exciting than this one though...I am very sorry I had to put in a bad review...I really do not like to flame authors because it's not hteir fault it is the readers in a way they just don't appreciate some stories I guess... Fiondil, how many more chapters till the Ball though? That is what I really cannot wait for! Adios y lo siento! (Bye and sorry!) Namarie!

Tira · 29 July 2007 · Chapter 114: Reconciliation

So happy that Ingwë and Glorfindel are reunited. Very good. Nice chappy, darling. Can't wait until the next! I love that bit at the start about trying NOT to invoke Eönwë and his damnable book of oaths. I agree with Glorfindel on that, lol.

Ellie · 29 July 2007 · Chapter 114: Reconciliation

“It [the Crown of State] was white gold and mithril, intricately wrought in the shape of two stylized eagles facing one another, their wings closed.” At first I misread this and thought it said, “two STERILIZED eagles”. First I wondered why the heck the eagles were sterilized and then I wondered how the heck Glorfindel could have told that at such a distance?! Keen are the eyes of the elves, but really! And what would be the symbolic significance of sterilized eagles in a crown? It was so hard to finish reading the chapter after that misunderstanding on my part... I know, this is not the sort of review you were expecting... I must admit I enjoy your stories immensely – even when I misread them.