Reviews (348)

Larner · 28 July 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

I THOUGHT that would prove to be Mahal, and I was glad to learn I was right. A good way to rid oneself of restlessness--to work it off! A good day's work has allowed him a good night's sleep!

Kitty · 28 July 2009 · Chapter 9: Horseshoes, Not Swords

Hm ... have to agree with Finrod. Somehow I don't like Míriel much. I wonder if she was one of these Lóriennildo who later on got in trouble for their treatment of the Reborn? The way she reacted to Finrod's apology was really ill grace. Can understand that Finrod would have loved to have a ride! ;) Though he had a very interesting experience. I guessed much faster just who that Elven smith truly was! Though it was a bit creepy for poor Finrod, that job seems to be more to his liking. Look forward to see how that plays out!

Kitty · 28 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

Well, the reactions of the other Elves to hearing Finrod's name were to be expected, though it is understandable why he feels so uncomfortable with it. But his reaction was great – threatening them with washing the dishes! *lol* Well done, Finrod! "I think I would prefer being back in Mandos giving Lord Námo grief." Hm ... somehow I suspect that Námo would strongly disagree about that! All in all, that went quite well. Just waiting for the next drama to happen – that was a bit too calm, considering it's Finrod we are talking about *eg*

Kitty · 28 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

That little journey must have been quite an experience for Finrod, with all these new sights and smells. Nice. Love that counting-out rhyme *grin* And a good way to decide which path to take, too. Though it might not have been the best idea to chose the overgrown path at that fork. No wonder he fainted in the end, after not drinking much in that heat. Poor ellon, what a beginning to his time in Lórien! Though, if I think about it, it seems somehow quite like Finrod. Taking the easier path seems not the option he's usually chosing, isn't it?

Tari · 27 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

Findaráto is showing wisdom which he does not even realize he has.

Larner · 27 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

A worthy performance by our Finrod! Nicely done!

Agape4Gondor · 24 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

'...then a memory arose in his mind of himself surrounded by Elves who turned their backs on him, all save ten.' What a sad memory - I'm glad it heartened him - but still, it breaks my heart to think of the betrayal of his people................ It must be the strangest sensation - to be with people you should know - but do not, to be something and not know what you were before.... to have to start all over again..... I give the Reborn much credit for 'coming out of the trees!' *g* Absolutely excellent chapter. Loved this first 'meeting' of the others. Can't wait, as usual (even without a cliffhanger) for the next installment!

Agape4Gondor · 22 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

I am astounded - which I shouldn't be - at Findarato's 'acceptance' of all that is happening to him. It is disconcerting.... not for him, but for me, the reader... for I feel for him. To be like that - almost like a fish out of water - and yet, acquiesce - hmmmmm... His thoughtfulness is almost inspiring. *g* As for the haversack - oh dear - it reminds me of Josh Lyman in 'West Wing' - always running around with that thing over his shoulder. *giggles*

ellie · 21 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

What an amazingly uncomfotable first day, but then the king cmae shining through. Loved the threat he made about washing dishes for every household in Eldamar. This bootcamp for the Reborn is going to be a tough place for Finrod. I do feel sorry for him. He can't even be an ordinary guy when he's trying to get used to life again. No wonder he doesn't like crowds much. looking forward to more!

njomo · 20 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

Hi Fiondil, For all Finrod's terrors after he was first reborn, he seems to have found something that has helped him to be much more sure of himself. It stands to reason that other reborn might remember more about him than he does himself, but he certainly manages to set the right tone. And I'm sure Ingil's coaching helped a lot. I like the part where Finrod remembers those who turned their backs on him, and the reaction of some of those eating dinner. Very nice, connecting past and present, and made even better, I think, by the fact that Finrod doesn't recognize the significance of what just happened. And already he has some shrewdness in how to make a point, when he starts speaking Quenya. It will be interesting to see what's in store next for Finrod. Hopefully he'll soon feel more like he's swimming than treading water or drowning. Thanks Fiondil! I look forward to whatever comes next. Joanne

6336 · 20 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

Finrod is starting to come into his own, he is starting to act like the King he was, even if unknowingly. I do understand his desire to return to Mandos though, having been by himself for so long it is hard to have to interact with others, he just has to remember that they put their underdrawers on one leg at a time, just like everybody else! More please, Lynda

trajar mandamar · 20 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

Finrod must find it very difficult to live to an image that he has no idea how he got.He has some fears that he must overcome till he becomes the elf we so admired in Elf Interrupted.It will be very interesting to see how he gets on with his life dealing with both his fears and fame.

Sitara · 20 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

Now, before I forget, I have to tell Irmo that he didn't hear the last from me. My tendency to take all the Valar are saying with a bit more than a ounce of salt notwithstanding, I'm kinda wary when it comes about the youngest of the Feanturi. But, enough about this, for now. "evil grin" Well, it seems that Finrod is back in full kingly mode. Or, at least, apparently. Hmm, should Olwe, Ingwe and Arafinwe start to worry about Finrod taking over their realms? He's even got a brand new title, given by both Brethorn and Saelmir: "um/er/something..aran" "lol". Now, (more) seriously speaking, I suppose this is Finrod's way to cope with his new living arrangements and, for displaying courage instead of that anxiety he surely must have felt (he told us himself, after all), he deserves respect. Especially because to all his issues (parents, brothers, his own death and many more)it's now added a new burden: he is or will be the one to the rest of the Elves would look up for guidance, the Ainur aside. He is the king, the only king among them, and Aman or not, this couldn't be easily forgotten, in my opinion. He's one of their own, unlike the Ainur. After all, it wasn't like the Ainur had showed themselves at their best when it came about understanding Elves, I think. The awkwardness of the Sindar's position was again only too easy to read."sigh" And, yeah, I've noticed what exactly he chose to ask in Quenya, in order to remain a mystery for some Sindarin ears. "scowl" Very aptly put in the sensation of drowning that Finrod described later. Thrown into a deep pool? Ha. Try to add some hungry crocodiles in there as well.

Thalanee · 20 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

*snicker* I wouldn´t have tried my luck either... trust Finrod to find a way to stay true to his promises... So he would prefer to be back in Mandos to give namo grief? I wonder what Namo´s reaction would have been, had he heard that comment. Probably a sigh and a "Why me?"... ;-) So, looking forward to the next chapter and whatever Finrod will be up to next! Greetings, Thalanee

Sunny · 20 July 2009 · Chapter 8: First Day in Lórien

It was quite an introduction to Lórien – one of the first things that happens is that he remember the death of his cousin’s wife Elenwë. It must be hard for Finrod to deal with his fame when he doesn’t even remember what he is famous _for_! And even when he regains the memory he won’t even know until he hears the rest of the story – about the things that happened after he died. He did at least take Ingil’s advice about being “just Finrod”. Simply starting to help with the dishwashing must have helped. I liked the threat to the next person to call him aran. It also reminded me of a little quip from Elf Interrupted (I think it was one of Laurendil’s): “Finrod doesn’t make threats. Just promises.”

Tari · 15 July 2009 · Chapter 5: Trouble Brewing

Our poor little elf is having quite a time trying to get his thoughts together. Guilt can be blown out of proportion which Finda in his "childhood" is doing. It's hard for him to understand that rebirth is in the hands of Eru and the Valar. He can do nothing about it. (I just got back from vacation and have a lot of catching up to do.)

Arasinda · 14 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

Dear Fiondil, The act of being reborn from Finrod's point of view has been most enjoyable. Comparing his experiences to Glorfindel's causes me to reread part of Glorfindel Redux, as well as, go back and check your Tapestry stories. Although I have been a great lover of LOTR since college, I have primarily been interested in Tolkien's Aman. With the addition of Christopher Tolkien's HOME series, much has been cleared up; however, I've always craved more information and stories about the Elves in Aman. With your stories and novels many holes are being filled that seem to fit very well with Tolkien's mythology, especially his perception of the afterlife for Elves and Mortals. The stories also extend the feeling of taking great joy in life and love. Thank you for the joy that you've added to my life. Sincerely, Arasinda

Thalanee · 13 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

Sorry to hear about your internet woes! I hope you are alright otherwise! I certainly flinched when Finrod told Ingil that he doesn´t remember his parents. It made me feel a bit sad, but that´s nothing in comparison to what Finrod must feel. It´s so easy to forget that the Reborn really don´t remember these things. I had to laugh though when I saw just how he chose his path, but as he said it´s as good a way as any (and it gave me a pause when I remembered reading about Glorfindel´s maze and thinking that i would probably use such a rhyme to get started). I understood why Finrod chose the overgrown path instead of the other: it would be much more interesting to see what might be hidden there! That choice at the well was about hope too in a way: drinking would imply giving up, while not drinking woul be refusing to give up and hope that things will turn out for the better... that didn´t come out exactly right, but I don´t really know how to put what I thought into words (I´ll have to practice my english) Looking forward to more! ;-) Greetings, Thalanee

Sitara · 13 July 2009 · Chapter 6: After the Storm

A most moving chapter, Fiondil, I have to admit. The image of a kneeling Finrod, in remorse and pain, grooming that plant lying among the scattered rose petals and damaged bushes with his tears is really touching. What he should understand of all this, among other things, is that his regrets and will to undo the damage he’d caused have indeed the power to make the difference. In my opinion, at least. “smile”. The yellow flower will come again to life, thanks to Yavanna’s powers and, in time, maybe other things as well. Like the ties between Eru and His Children, I’d say. I have also to agree with Yavanna and Namo’s reasoning in regard to death as part of Eru’s plans for Arda. Especially with their reasons to keep hoping and looking past Morgoth’s darkness and destruction. Having among them once more one of the Exiled Noldor, who once went away in order to follow an illusion, is the proof that their efforts were worthwhile. Although I’d have plenty to say about Finrod’s particular situation, the fact he’d died protecting another cannot be denied. Nor that his sacrifice opened a whole new path for Middle-Earth’s people, as the Lord of Mandos-No-Man-or-Exiled-should-step-in-Aman has just said. “grin” Well, another excellent chapter, Fiondil. And…I apologize again.

njomo · 12 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

Hi Fiondil, I am sorry to hear the cause of your Internet woes. I don't listen to a lot of news (it's better for the blood pressure *grin*) but it also means I miss out on a lot of information that is good to know. It was interesting reading about Finrod's trip through the maze in light of what we already know about Glorfindel's maze experience. At least Finrod did not stumble out upon two laughing Valar--sorry, I couldn't resist! Hmmm...Finrod gets the "impossible choice" and Glorfindel...well, Glorfindel gets labeled "stubborn". But yes, they are two very different personalities. In looking back over some of your comments about Glorfindel's experience in the maze, you remarked that the conversation between the Fëanturi was "a test for Glorfindel, trying to gauge his emotional reactions." That helps me put Finrod's experience in better perspective, but it's interesting that they seem to treat Finrdod gently whereas it always seemed to me the two Valar knew exactly what to do and say to provoke Glorfindel as he emerged from the maze. I suppose any real comparison between their two experiences is not really fair. But I did think at the beginning of this story that Finrod seemed more fragile in some ways than Glorfindel after his re-embodiment, and in that case the Fëanturi handled the two ellyn as the condition of each warranted. I liked the interlude with Ingil as the two travel to Lórien. It brought me up short when Finrod could not remember his atar. I don't know about Finrod, but it certainly left me feeling bleak. It's probably hindsight on my part, knowing the relationship they have developed by the time we see them together in EI 1. One does forget how much the reborn have to adjust to in these first years and just how much there is in a person's life to remember-or forget-especially if one is as long-lived as the elves. And in the end, Finrod learns a lot about himself. He has made great strides already since being reborn, and has learned a lot even in just this one day. As always, most excellent! Thanks Fiondil. Joanne

Ellie · 12 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

Loved the counting game! Leave it to Finrod to use an elvish "One potato, Two potato," to work out which way to go. That sounds like something Glorfy would use! Too Funny! The tests put before the Reborn are difficult ones, but they do offer much insight. I loved the fact that the wine he was rewarded with at the end was the best he had ever had in either life time. Very nice touch at the end there. Sorry my reviews aren't more thorough, but it is hard to think with someone yanking my hand off the keyboard every few minutes or asking me things all the time. I can't stay focused long enough to say what I want to say.

Larner · 12 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

Interesting to see these choices given and his reactions. His character and determination have not been lost to him with his death.

Sunny · 12 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

I liked Finrod’s way of picking out the road to follow at the beginning of the maze. Well, he had to pick _one_, didn’t he, and that was as good a method as any other when all choices seem to be equal. :-) Finrod chose the road less traveled by this time, too (Have you been reading Robert Frost?) _And_ stubborn enough to stay with it, even when the path became almost impassable. Just as he stuck with his choices in his previous life.

Erulisse · 10 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

The thought of internet problems intervening in my Fiondil doses is striking me as somewhat tragic. This tragedy is somewhat ameliorated by the fact that I will be on vacation for the next week and my own internet access will be limited. Therefore, I will survive because I must, but I will miss you mellon nîn and hope that all will be resolved in your favor quickly and efficiently.

Kaylee Arafinwiel · 10 July 2009 · Chapter 7: Departure and Arrival

Findaráto sighed and wondered which of the paths he should take. They all looked equally inviting and just as equally uninviting. As he stood there in indecision, though, a memory crept forth and he saw in his mind a group of elflings in a courtyard playing a counting game. Unconsciously, he began to echo them, pointing to the different paths as he did: "Balrogs, orcs, and goblin-kind, let them us never find, but if they do, we will fight and they shall learn of elven might." *has to remember that rhyme* It sounds vaguely familiar anyway, sort of. *winks* All right, off to Disneyland now! and glad Finda didn't drink the poisoned water! Tye-melin Atar Fiondil! Kaylee