Reviews (156)

Dot · 27 February 2005 · Chapter 15: Hannon le

Hey there. So sorry this is late – I was away for a few days and am gradually catching up! As always, I was thrilled to see an update, and this was certainly an exciting one! I loved seeing Thranduil and his wife together; there was something extraordinarily touching about the mighty Thranduil wondering if he deserved the love Lasgalen obviously has for him. Even in this short glimpse you’ve made her come alive and given her a very infectious personality. I like the connection with Celebrían and it’s so sad to think that Lasgalen tried to spare Thranduil any reference to the sea-longing when that’s what will one day take his son from him. It was a very moving look at some of the last moments between Thranduil, Legolas and Lasgalen and it definitely adds strength to Thranduil’s despair and anger in this story. The suggestion that Thranduil is overtaken by memories from time to time, to the point that Celebren is familiar with such moods made me gasp aloud! I know you’re fond of Men, but someday you’re going to have to do a Mirkwood story!! Thranduil is scary when he’s worried!! For a moment there I nearly felt sorry for that Orc…;-) My heart was in my mouth for the whole part where Estel and Legolas try to escape – you create tension far too well!! I was a little surprised that Legolas was taken and Estel rescued him but I guess it’s important in terms of Estel gaining confidence and he does need to get to a point where Elrond feels he is fully adult at only twenty because of what he’s experienced. My God, for a moment there I didn’t think Elladan and Elrohir would find them! But yay, they did! I can only imagine their astonishment to find Legolas sitting there too! I don’t blame Celebren for being frightened by his Adar, and I’m glad Thranduil realised for a moment how he must appear. But at the same time I felt so badly for Thranduil and could completely understand his rage and anguish. I loved the reunion between Legolas and Celebren and I had to laugh at Estel’s vehement defence of Elrond in the face of Celebren’s understandable confusion at the story he’s just heard! I like Celebren, by the way – he seems as open as his younger brother. I had tears in my eyes at when Thranduil was finally reunited with his son. It was a great moment too when he thanked Estel – that’ll teach those Imladris elves to think ill of Thranduil!! Estel did really well here too. You’ve brought him a long way and he really seems to be maturing and growing into himself. I love the bond you’ve given Legolas and Estel too as a back story to the events of LotR. I’m curious as to what comes next. I’m such a fan of Thranduil and Legolas but I’m so fascinated by the way you’re telling Estel’s story and the way you’ve brought Gilraen and the Dùnedain to life as well as focusing on what Estel’s heritage means not only for him but for all those who know the truth that I’m looking forward to more of that side of this tale!! Ah well, I’m sure I’ll enjoy wherever you take him (and us) next! :-)

Tigger · 22 February 2005 · Chapter 15: Hannon le

I've been wondering when you would update this. I was up until five in the morning a few months ago reading this and got hooked badly. You just knew somehow Estel would end up getting in trouble. Loved how you've made Aragorn and Legolas' first adventure also being how they first met. Wonderful!! Also love Elrohir's visions of a crown on his beloved younger brother's head. Can't wait for the next installments!!

daw the minstrel · 22 February 2005 · Chapter 15: Hannon le

I’m a big fan of both Legolas and Thranduil, and the relationship between Thranduil and his sons is interesting here. As a matter of fact, I’m such a fan that I’m a little offended that the young man had to come to the rescue of the elf. So I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I so miss the focus on Aragorn as the future chieftain! It’s something I’ve always wanted to read about and there are so few stories out there about it. You are just so great at picturing what that Dunedain culture is like and how the secrecy about Aragorn is hard on them. And Gilraen! I want more Gilraen! You do her so well and most writers just erase her. Send Legolas home now with his adar now! Make Aragorn start learning about his obligations and duties and stuff!

Dot · 25 January 2005 · Chapter 14: I am not alone

Great stuff. What an exciting chapter! I think my favourite part was Elladan seeing the crown upon Estel’s head. It was such a lovely image and, I think, would mean mixed emotions for Elladan – it’s good to know that Aragorn will fulfil his destiny, yet it can never be an easy journey. I like your description of the Dunedain too, “unchanged, steadfastly working and hoping for the days that would see the return of the king”. It really sums them up and makes them seem so loyal and noble. Poor Erithain. In a position he never wanted and unable to pass it on to its rightful heir. You do a great job showing how much he already loves Estel and his humble pride in him. I love the idea that Estel seems to have responded with immediate respect and affection to Erithain too. Estel is very perceptive. It’s probably best that they part now or I imagine he would begin to piece things together. I really liked the description of Erithain as having a “quiet strength about him and a way of giving confidence and comfort to his people.” It could almost be describing a future Aragorn. LOL at Elrohir frightening the life out of Erithain by suddenly appearing behind him! I’m glad Elladan and Erithain parted well. They are each still hurting but at least they realise to some extent that the other is too. My heart was in my mouth for the entire part with the Orc attack. I couldn’t believe they carried Estel away! The moment with Elladan threatening the Orc and then Elrohir killing it was just so intense. Those twins, and especially Elladan it would seem, must be feeling such anger and anguish. Elrohir’s fight to bring his brother back from the brink of despair was so touching. ‘You were born to fight against evil, but never with evil in your heart.’ Wow. “Shh-shh! Lie still” came a lyrical voice in Sindarin accented Westron.” Well, look who it is!! I just adore your elves. You write them so well and just when I had become comfortable with the ones of Rivendell, you present us with a wonderful…well, elfy… Legolas! I love how open Legolas is and there’s a sense of merriness to him even in these circumstances. You’ve really kept him in character. And you’ve created a very interesting situation here with the Orcs trying to deal with Thranduil. I was so, so surprised by Legolas’ belief that he would have to stay there unless he escaped himself because his father would do nothing to endanger his people. And then you let us see what was happening in Mirkwood! I could really feel Thranduil’s fury. Those Orcs will be sorry. I just loved the last line of that part: “They were ready to do battle with verminous forces that dared capture Legolas, youngest and most beloved.” Very powerful. Legolas’ calm in battle is amazing to see and I really like that at the same time he is so tender towards Estel and offers him some comfort. Poor Estel is having a hell of a time. “The darkness is so complete, Legolas. Keep whispering so that I may know that I am not alone.” Crikey, this whole piece is full of great lines! Very well-written as always. Keep writing! :-)

daw the minstrel · 25 January 2005 · Chapter 14: I am not alone

I particularly enjoyed the parts of this about Estel and the Dunedain. That's such an intriguing topic for me because it's so unexplored. I'm less a fan of Estel & Legolas friendship stories but you do it well. I can just picture Thranduil's rage. And the twins must really be suffering.

Cherry2000 · 12 December 2004 · Chapter 9: A Gift from the Valar

At first when I read the name Tequin I thought it was just a coincidence. Then, THEN, the names Cefzil and Tilade show up! I wonder if the drug companies use Elf-name generators to come up with med names? Very funny. Plus, I like the story too.

Dot · 7 December 2004 · Chapter 13: The Memory of Love

I really enjoyed this chapter! My heart went out to Estel. The questions he asks must have been weighing on his mind for some time and yet he is so aware that in asking them he might cause Elrond pain. You did a truly fantastic job with the emotions in that scene. As bad as I felt for Estel, I felt equally so for Elrond. Of course, he knew this day would come but that wouldn’t make it any easier. His reluctance and sorrow really came across very well. It must have been so difficult to try to give Estel a heritage to claim, without saying too much. I was quite moved too by the little mentions of Gilraen. Even more than the loss of her beloved husband, it was the fact that she had to keep his memory from her son that always seemed to grieve her and it seems that this burden hasn’t grown lighter over the years. I suppose it makes sense too that she would really see what is missing from her son’s life as he grows older and needs an identity of his own in this place where he is loved but will always be different. How hard it must have been for Elrond to hear Estel reciting his history lesson when these are people that he himself knew, events whose repercussions are still felt and more than that, a vital part of Estel’s own story. Estel is so *young* to be going off to the north like that! But I can’t blame him for wanting to learn a little of where he came from as well as to prove himself. I do love your take on the little snippets of canon that Tolkien gives us! The gifts and the blessing were beautifully done. Did you invent all of that? It absolutes resonates with depth and meaning. And it’s lovely to think that Estel leaves for his first warrior trip with the love and respect of his family. The fact that the elves are sworn to protect Estel and that he is utterly oblivious really drives home how important he is not just to Elrond but in the role he will one day play. And it speaks volumes of how much the rest of the elves respect Elrond’s word and recognise the significance of this boy in their midst. I had to laugh at the cooking scene! Poor Elladan. They’re so good to him but I somehow think he won’t be too happy if he ever finds out that he was kept in the dark! “There is a special bond between those two. I cannot bear to think what would happen to one, if the other should come to harm, or worse.” Ouch. That wasn’t you being ominous, now was it??! My heart was in my mouth for the battle scene! He did very well, though. And Erithain is there! I was wondering if we’d ever see him again and I’m so, so happy that we did. What a shock it must have been to him, though. I completely understand his anger at the fact that his nephew has no knowledge of his family or heritage. I think that would have been my first reaction as well. He’s just as loyal and selfless as always, though, in abiding by Elrond’s wishes. I loved the notion that there’s still some connection between the two. I had tears in my eyes when Erithain explains to Estel about not becoming accustomed to killing. He spoke in such a loving and reassuring way, almost as a father would. Your lines “That kind of bond never leaves the soul even if it has left the conscious memory. So in some portion of Estel’s soul the memory of love for his uncle lived” are a beautiful way of expressing it. This chapter was fantastic. I’m getting really excited now at what might be coming! Sorry again for the slow reviews; I hope they make sense now that I’ve finally got around to them because it’s rather late and my bed is beckoning! I can’t believe you’re 12 chapters into this story – I’m still completely gripped by it and eagerly look forward to more! :-)

Dot · 7 December 2004 · Chapter 12: I will learn

Hiya. I’m finally getting around to it! Apologies again… You know, I love the idea of the twins taking the time to train Estel. They’re very encouraging too and I imagine it must reassure him somewhat to know that even they weren’t always as good with a bow as they are now. Elladan and Elrohir play off each other wonderfully – you write them so well. Although, I did cringe during the horse story, having a little inkling that perhaps it wasn’t the greatest idea to share such escapades with a ten-year-old boy! I laughed at Elladan nudging Elrohir to remind him of that fact. LOL at ‘Snowdrop’too. I loved that little glimpse into Elrond’s sense of humour! The description of how much of a handful Estel is was great. I can just imagine him getting into anything and everything. You create such a vivid image of this vibrant little boy and even though he does get into scrapes, it’s still wonderful to see him so full of life. The unspoken messages passing between the adults around him really made me smile. Teensy question, if you don’t mind – why is Elrond referred to as a ‘Sindarin Lord’. I’ve just never seen him called anything like that anywhere else and I was wondering why Gilraen sees him that way. I really liked the little comparison between Elrond and Gilraen, that they’ve both lost someone and had to learn to live with that pain. I think they could be good for each other. Gilraen certainly seems to get strength from his presence and I suppose he might gain some comfort from what she brings to the household as well as from the unquestioning love of her son. I almost couldn’t bear to read the part with the horse! There was just no way that was going to end well for poor Estel. I guess he’s just at the age where he feels that he must prove himself and it can’t be made easier by the fact that he must sometimes feel he has to live up to the standards of the elves, something he’ll never attain but he may not have fully realised that yet. That scene with Elrond was fantastic. He must have been horrified and then he has to not only help Estel and hide his alarm but deal with a panicked mother as well. I just love the way he takes control, despite his worry. What a great person to have around in a crisis! It seems too that this little incident has really brought home to Elrond how much he has come to love the child. That moment of realisation was so touching. Aren’t you clever to fit in the White Council! I’d never have realised that, me being absolutely terrible with dates. It’s a good reminder of the events that are taking place beyond the protection of Imladris in the world into which Estel will venture. I actually felt quite bad for Elladan and Elrohir when they were told about Estel. After all, they genuinely didn’t think he’d do anything like that. Still, I suppose it’s made them realise how Estel sees them and has probably made them more aware of how much influence they have over him. I thought Elrohir explained it to Estel very well, and of course Elrond is as wise as ever in what he says to him. It must indeed be hard for them to watch him take pointless risks when they know that danger is likely to be in Estel’s future anyway unless times drastically change. It’s quite sad, really, to see them trying to protect him and all the while knowing that he’s beginning to leave childhood behind already and cannot forever remain in their protection. But for now he’s just so lucky in the family he has and the love they give him. Great chapter as always. And now on to the next one…!:-)

daw the minstrel · 7 December 2004 · Chapter 13: The Memory of Love

I've often wondered about that time before Aragorn was 20 when he rode out on "deeds of errantry" with Elladan and Elrohir. He was amazingly young to do it, but I guess men were expected grow up quickly. He does need to learn about the people he will lead. He can't be a good king unless he does.

grumpy · 7 December 2004 · Chapter 13: The Memory of Love

great chapter. So brave and wise of Elrond to let Estel go at such a young age. He was walking a fine line , what to tell him and what not. Loved the blessing of the elves at the coming of age for Estel. Elladan and his cooking had me laughing. Glad to see Erithain again, glad he was there to see Estel again after his first battle. looking forward to more

daw the minstrel · 1 December 2004 · Chapter 12: I will learn

I loved it when Elladan elbowed Elrohir to make him say that riding Elrond's horse was, "of course," the wrong thing to do! Also, "Snowdrop" was a hoot! That does sound like an Elrond with a smart sense of humor. There's a story on the site somewhere (I think it's called "Toy Story") that talks about how Estel's time in Imladris was different from that of the other heirs of Isildur because he didn't know who he was and also because he was younger when he came. I thought that was an interesting notion and it fits well with what you have Elrond feeling too. Elrond's explanation of the difference between bravery and recklessness was right on.

Dot · 21 September 2004 · Chapter 11: Hope is kindled

I just clicked onto your bio after leaving the review... You got married! Woo-hoo! Congrats!! I guess I have to forgive you for disappearing so... ;-)

Dot · 21 September 2004 · Chapter 11: Hope is kindled

Well! Hello there. I’m so thrilled to see you back again with this story. I was worried. I hope all is well. And what a great comeback! This chapter was fantastic. I thought it was a very good idea to bring the time forward a little. I’ll admit that I haven’t actually had time today to re-read the rest of it - I will when I can – but your pacing seems perfect to me. Estel appears to have well and truly settled in – and taken over as only a small child can! I loved the start with him trying to catch the fish. Elladan was certainly amused anyway! I guess our little man will have to learn throughout his life that elves can do some things that he just can’t, but at the moment he doesn’t seem at all bothered and is clearly determined to keep trying – and with his resolve I don’t doubt for a second that he’ll succeed eventually. You know, I always find it weird when Aragorn calls Elrond ‘Ada’. I just don’t see it. But in fairness, it does make sense in this story. I love that Estel is comfortable enough with him to run up and hug him. I get the impression that Gandalf is seeing a whole new side of Elrond as well! I really like how light-hearted Elrond and Elladan are with each other as well as the child. “I’m not having a repeat of last summer when she gave me an earful when you came down with the sniffles.” Oh, I love that. Apart from the hilarious image of Gilraen tearing into Elrond, it really showed how the elves had to take some time to adjust to having humans around. Clearly it didn’t dawn on them that little boys can’t be allowed to wander around in wet clothes… I thought you wrote Gilraen really well. Her pain doesn’t come through as strongly any more but there’s still a sense of it being there somewhere, buried perhaps not quite as deep as she thinks, as well as a certain loneliness that comes through despite her new life. I’m glad she’s found some peace in Imladris but I guess those hidden memories will have to be faced some day. I loved the line “They had given Estel back his smile.” It seems that as a mother that was all she wanted. It’s interesting that Estel senses that his mother is troubled sometimes but doesn’t know why. How hard it must be for Gilraen not to share his past life with him. It seems to that there’s a divide between them now, in that Estel becomes more elvish every day, adopting their tongue and way of life but Gilraen will always see it as something different than what she is and what she’s used to. Elmiran seems nice! Is there anyone at all who hasn’t fallen under Estel’s spell…?!! I get the impression that the frog incident is only the latest in a long line of such occurrences. I suppose Estel’ll eventually learn the lesson that Elrond is trying to teach him. “All living creature thrive best where there is a place to grow and be happy.” Ah, how wise. I must say, I totally agree with you that having Aragorn meet Gandalf is a great idea. There’s such instinctive trust on Estel’s part that it certainly gives weight to their later relationship. I enjoyed watching Gandalf piece together the different parts of this child’s life. He should really just go back and talk to Elrond!! Is Gilraen going to meet him? This was a wonderful chapter. Thanks for coming back to it. I eagerly await more :-)

daw the minstrel · 20 September 2004 · Chapter 11: Hope is kindled

Oh my goodness, I can't believe this story is back! Yay! I loved the picture of Estel sitting in the pond, trying to figure out what went wrong. After all, he did just what Elladan did! But the poor little thing -- worried about his mother's 'troubles.' Children really are very sensitive. I have a friend who married a Frenchman. Their three children were born in the US and then they went to live in France for a while. The kids all spoke both languages, and so did she, but it actually sort of shook her when her kids started to be French children instead of American. She had no problem with a husband who was 'foreign,' but she didn't want her kids to be.

Dot · 28 October 2003 · Chapter 10: Acceptance

Hi there! Welcome back. I hope all is well – I certainly missed you! Did my e-mail get through alright? What an incredibly powerful chapter. Yeah, it was short but that gave you a great opportunity for some deeper characterisation. You did a particularly good job showing Gilraen’s sense of futility and her questioning of her life now and her place in the world. She seems at a total loss as to what to do with herself, especially when she is without Aragorn to keep her focused. I’m glad Elladan and Elrohir are spending so much time with Aragorn – the child could probably benefit hugely from their influence. They’re just so amazing – I imagine Elrond must be very proud of them. I really like your portrayal of Elrond, actually. I think it’s important to see that any decision he makes is only done so with difficulty and that he is completely aware of the pain he may cause. He strikes me as so compassionate, which is exactly how I would have imagined him. I never thought before how the protection of Aragorn would have affected Gilraen in the sense that she is forced to hide so many of her memories instead of sharing them. It was his devotion to his people and his heritage that made Arathorn the man he was and yet she cannot share this with his son. That’s really quite heartbreaking - you really made me stop and think! That part with Erithain receiving the news was handled so well. The numbness, despair and reluctant acceptance of his new position... Arathorn played such an important role in his life, and his devastation is portrayed so realistically. Galadriel??! That was unexpected! But a beautiful touch. I like the way she reinforces the importance of the unity of the Dunedain. I’m beginning to suspect that Erithain has a role to play yet (yay!)... I was a little worried about him but he’s lucky to have such a friend as Erkenthal, who really must be equally devastated. Our boys’ll be alright, won’t they...?!!:)

daw the minstrel · 27 October 2003 · Chapter 10: Acceptance

The two sections of this chapter showed the brother and sister suffering the aftermath of Arathorn's death, each in their own way. You made the pain very real. I could see how much at a loss Gilraen was as her life was stripped from her. And her brother is now alone with heavy responsibilities. Great chapter.

Nilmandra · 4 October 2003 · Chapter 9: A Gift from the Valar

One other thing I forgot to comment on - I like your elves. You have given them a dignity like what I think Tolkien intended - they are gracious and well spoken and funny. They can be very serious and full of mirth. Yet they are different than the humans. Not everyone manages to capture that :)

Nilmandra · 4 October 2003 · Chapter 9: A Gift from the Valar

Well, I am caught up. Sorry I did not comment on the prior chapters, but I was engrossed in reading the story. You have given this story some unique twists that I like, with the detail of Elrond performing certain ceremonies for the Duendain and also of foresight leading Elrond to send for Aragorn. How incredibly sad that in this act Arathorn would be slain. There is a poignant irony to that. I love the ideas of how the fea connect and healing energy is shared, and you used the concept very nicely and in a very 'elven' manner. It is very clear that Gilraen is welcome in Imladris, and yet we know she must stay hidden - which means that she probably can have little contact with their families. The thought is saddening, yet speaks to the committment they had to see Aragorn grow into his position. I am looking forward to seeing what you do with it. PS To get the marking for feä, at least in word, go to Insert, then Symbol and all the letters with their various accent marks are there. I have no idea what they are named but I know how to find them! Ctrl : and then the letter are supposed to do it, but mine has never worked.

daw the minstrel · 3 October 2003 · Chapter 9: A Gift from the Valar

I loved the mind-to-mind stuff between the Elves and the idea that Elladan could/would "weave sleep" around a child and heal him, although at great cost to himself. This grief filled chapter was very convincing.

Nilmandra · 1 October 2003 · Chapter 3: A Wedding Awaits

I love the humor and love between Arathorn and Gilraen, but even more so the traditions, love and long preparations that were made for a daughter's wedding. How sad for a mother to prepare for happiness when she knows her foresight speaks of pain.

Nilmandra · 1 October 2003 · Chapter 2: A Gift Bestowed

I have heard very good things about this story, and already they are proved true! You seem to have put considerable effort into your development of the Dunedain culture and what is known of the story of Arathorn and Gilraen. The Dunedain were proud and independent people, and it is intersting to see both the strength and weaknesses this causes them. I like how you have shown Gilraen's parents concerns and the strength within them that allowed them to choose what was right rather than what was easy.

daw the minstrel · 1 October 2003 · Chapter 8: Never be afraid

Another great chapter. This was all rendered very realistically from several points of view. I could see why people did what they did and was really moved by Arathorn's death.

Dot · 29 September 2003 · Chapter 6: A seed is sown

So sorry this is late - I've been trying to review at ff.net and finally got fed up with it.... ----- Ah, Aragorn makes his entrance! This chapter certainly covered a lot! I loved the scenes with Erithain and the Rangers – he seems totally at home and they definitely appear to have adopted him. The teasing and banter was wonderfully written. It makes them all seem like a family, really and gives great insight into their lifestyle. LOL at Arathorn as the anxious father to be! Very vivid, and shows a wonderfully emotional and human side to him. Accurate too, I’d imagine…! Oh, Erithain is so good with Aragorn! He’s such an indulgent uncle too – what a wonderful gift he gave him! You really write little Aragorn well – I never know how to write children and really admire anyone who does. That bit about the death of Arador was so sad. You handled it really well – showing what it meant to Arathorn to lose someone he loves, that Aragorn will never know his grandfather and then the deeper meaning in the passing of responsibility to Arathorn. The blessing that Elrond speaks was so weighted with meaning and really shows us exactly the heavy legacy that all Isildur’s line carry. The little piece in Fornost was amazing. The idea that even when he is so young Aragorn feels the importance of this place and can understand a little of this legacy is fascinating. I like the idea that these precious few moments with his father as they stare at the ruins will in some way shape the man he will become and the path he will choose in life. A really great chapter!:)

daw the minstrel · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 6: A seed is sown

I'm really glad to see this father/son moment, one of many that I hope happened before Arathorn was killed. And I can well imagine that this trip to Fornost would remain in the child's memory somewhere, even if it wasn't conscious.

daw the minstrel · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 5: Owing the past; Owing the future

It strikes me as I read this that the heirs of Isildur had been hoping for a better time for centuries and, while I am sure they still hoped, as the ceremonial words show, it may have seemed more like a wish that a real expectation. And yet, the restoration is near. Those circlets won't be for these two, but they will be for their son and Elrond's daughter. So the future is very near here as these three are gathered around the old wooden box, but it may seem to them to be as far as ever.