Cantrip by bryn
daw the minstrel · 12 January 2004 · Chapter 6: Bladed Tongues
This picture of the twins is so gripping. You've really brought them alive in a very unusual way. The stuff about Elrond at the end was amusing as was the letter from Thranduil.
Author's reply
daw- *grin* I had to put Thranduil in. I couldn't help it. He's just too great and thick-headed to ignore. ;) Thank you for the review!!
daw the minstrel · 12 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
OK, I am staying completely neutral on the Gilraen/son of Elrond question. But I did enjoy this chapter. Halbarad is just one of my favorite characters. What a Man! Aragorn is lucky he lost only his hair.
Lasse-Lanta · 10 January 2004 · Chapter 2: Company
This story is just too good, it's such a joy to find wonderful work. Being a Glorfindel fancier myself, I loved the reason for the bells on the reins, and what a cute little dig at the Mirkwood crew *g*. Well, I can see that Aragorn is just going to go completely downhill from here under the infuence of Halbarad, but it should be oh so interesting to watch.
fliewatuet · 10 January 2004 · Chapter 6: Bladed Tongues
Wow, that father-son talk seemed to have been long overdue! Apparentrly, there was much that had been buried deep. I loved the way you hinted at the twins' role in the events that lead to Arathorn's death and the feeling of guilt they suffered about it. That was done nicely and subtly, just the way I like it. And I don't think the dialog was too choppy. There was a turmoil of emotions involved on both sides, so pauses and breaks in the conversation were inevitable and must be felt as such by the reader. The contrast between the more than serious topic of their talk and the description of the lovely surroundings worked quite well to both show and fill those gaps. But Gandalf's remark about the quality of Elrond's chairs really made me laugh out loud! I always wondered how the attendants of the Council of Elrond in the movie managed to sit still in those chairs. They looked more than uncomfortable! But Celeborn's remark about his son-in-law's love for words, the fact that the introduction alone lasted for half an hour, and, finally, the attention that E2 paid their father weren't bad either. Not to mention Elrond's 'joke' at the expense of his sons ... Well done! fliewatuet (since you are so productive these days: When will there be an update? *fliewatuet tries her best Pippin-while-asking-for-second-breakfast-expression*)
Author's reply
fliewatuet- I find that arguments are one of the most difficult things to write. It's hard to delve into all sides, and keep the dialogue at an acceptable and understandable flow. Thank you for your comments on the matter! Poor Gandalf and his sore bottom. *lol* It seems he had enough 'fun' with Radagast, as it was, and now forced to suffer in those chairs... Thank you for the lovely review!! :) Look, I've updated already... and the next chapter is in the works!
Sphinx · 10 January 2004 · Chapter 6: Bladed Tongues
I fear he may attempt to jest with fellow members, and even Glorfindel would not be able to smooth over his insults. I bow, Bryn. What intrigues me most about this story of yours is the oscillating emotion which works so well. On one hand, Halbarad and his barber shop. On the other, Elrond and the twins undertake their own journey, which proves to be a very dark teatime for the soul indeed. Most of this was laden with a darkness that maany dont expect this story to have. But it works. Extremely well, in fact. I am an angst demon - and I can safely say that I have never seen a better mix of drama and humour in this fandom. Waiting for the next, as always. Sphinx p.s. - I would love to see the romance bit. If you dont mind, could you please mail it to just_sphinx@yahoo.com? I'd really, really like to read it.
Author's reply
Sphinx- *blushes* Aw geez, thank you! I love reading angst as much as humor, though I admit without reservation it's not the easiest thing for me to write. Rather difficult, in fact. I'm thrilled you enjoyed reading the 'romance bit'! :) It was a bit of a stretch, but no harm in trying. Thank you for the great review!
phoenix23531 · 10 January 2004 · Chapter 6: Bladed Tongues
Ah! I love this story more and more! At first, Halbarad, and now Glorfindel, Celeborn and Mithrandir! Well done on that ending! Though I have serious reservations about the dark actions of the twins as mentioned here and alluded to earlier, I love the way you characterise their interaction with their father. What's more, I love the subtle description of how well Elrond knows them (admiring their beloved features, and above all, appealing to their indignation and subsequent humour) and yet hardly at all (their new weapons as symbolic of their new course in life). But it was Glorfindel's point of view at the council that I appreciated most. From whose side of the family indeed! One small question for you - (I just woke up, and figuring out Tolkien's use of names right now is just not a good idea!) from an elven point of view, and Glorfindel's in particular as a returned Nolod, would he refer to the Istari as Saruman and Gandalf, Curunír and Mithrandir, or Curumo and Olórin? Ah, it's just too early for such questions! All the best (and more chapters please!!!) Emma
Author's reply
Emma- I re-wrote some of E2's initial horrible deeds. They seemed a bit much for the rating of this tale and I decided some things were better left to the imagination. I don't think they're angels by any means, and the shock and feeling of wrongness that comes with reading of what they've done seemed strangely fitting. (Wait, does that make sense? Or am I rambling?) Oooh, loved the question about how Glorfindel would refer to the wizards! I was actually pondering that myself. I decided he would refer to them as Curumo and Olorin, but I wrote them (when he was thinking about them) as their Western names--Gandalf and Saruman. It was more or less to avoid Name Confusion. And for some reason the phrase about Saruman being the only sane wizard present sounded better than 'Curumo' being the only sane wizard present. Perhaps I'm oversimplifying though. ;) Thank you for the wonderful review!
Jen Littlebottom · 10 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
I love Halbarad. So much. So very very much.
Jen Littlebottom · 10 January 2004 · Chapter 6: Bladed Tongues
“…His Royal Majesty King Thranduil was booted over the mountainside by Giants while attempting to cross the High Pass—pity—and so you need not worry about him—“ AHAHAHAHA. <3 Erestor.
Author's reply
Jen Littlebottom- *grin* Yeah, Erestor has some issues. But you know what, can you just SEE the look on Thranduil's face when that Giant puts a boot to his royal rear end? *snicker* Thank you for the review!
Jen Littlebottom · 10 January 2004 · Chapter 2: Company
“Aragorn, you must not walk in that manner.” The Heir of Isildur turned, brow furrowing in confusion. “What is wrong with the way I walk? I have always walked as thus.” Halbarad washed a hand over his face and groaned. “You shall need some work.” He shook his head and pulled a face. “Elves may be able to walk in that manner, but Rangers, my friend, do not prance.” *dies laughing* Oh my. Yes, Aragorn might find that learning the ways of Men takes some doing. *giggles*
Miriel · 10 January 2004 · Chapter 6: Bladed Tongues
Yes, please do e-mail the romance part to me. I loved this chapter. You know, it's all your fault that I am now an Elladan/Elrohir fan. Ever since Out of the Frying Pan... I especially like Elrohir. No idea why. I loved all your dialogue. I find the father/sons tension fascinating. the cruelty that they showed to their enemies is most understandable, yet also sad. Interesting. I know which council that is!! :-) Coming eventually? No, no, coming soon! I'd rather have an update of this than Marinus. (Especially after you killed Bergil! Sorry-still recovering.) Please, please, update this soon! Oh, and chapter 6 of Return from the Void is now posted, with more lovely Eldarion scenes. Let me know what you think! Cheers!
Author's reply
Miriel- Oh my gosh, Elrohir is my favorite too! And I have no idea why. I think I just like his name better than Elladan's. *lol* Did the 'romance' bit get through to you? I'm still recovering from Bergil, too. Argh, I was so fond of him. So fond. Thank goodness for Halbarad, eh? Oooh, I'll hop on over to Return of the Void either Friday or Saturday! *puts on List of Things To Read* Thank you for the review!
Orophins Dottir · 9 January 2004 · Chapter 6: Bladed Tongues
Serious chapter and most interesting. Why is it that Erestor seems always so comical? Yours is the first story I have ever seen to give him some sort of motivation. I really like that. Usually, one gets "Erestor, the idiot; Hey, kids, let's send the ring to Tom Bombadil!" This is refreshing. Interesting. I love Radagast and have linked him with the Woodland Elves. Considering where Rhosgobel is, I somehow found it logical. I think it's a mistake to consider him, as Saurman did, "Radagast, the Simple; Radagast, the Fool." I also like the combination of light and dark moods in this story. But, the very best is your portrayal of E2! It gets better and better. I am so impressed by it. Now, next chapter is Halbarad taking the Priss out barcrawling, you say? Hurry up! Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil (who now has Erestor's picture on his dartboard)
Author's reply
Orophins Dottir- *ROTFL* I believe it was the Tom Bombadil suggestion that permanently solidified Erestor's role as Elrond's Fool. Poor Elf. I tried to give him some credit... Oh I have this whole mental sketch of Radagast--about how he's mad and rambling, and completely brilliant. All far-seeing and the lot. Thranduil and sons, of course, know this. They strike me as the type to see beyond the insanity. It's probably how Radagast manages to get by. If you're seen as crazy, people will generally leave you be. Halbarad drags the poor "I'm a Man?" Aragorn out next chapter. I got carried away with Rangers and pets, and just sort of let it go where it wanted to. :) Thank you for the great review! :) (P.S. Your story is officially on my List of Things To Read...)
e · 9 January 2004 · Chapter 6: Bladed Tongues
There was maybe a little too much speech on the part of Elrond, but then again, you covered that with the end comments about him liking to talk. Otherwise, great, if somewhat depressing, chapter. I think you could have used a little more expansion on the idea of what Elrond did against the Shadow, of the usefulness of his peace. I think you really nailed Elladan and Elrohir's rage, though. Update soon!
Author's reply
e- Oh thank you so much--I'm actually inclined to agree with your Talking Elrond comments. I do intend revise the chapter. (Ai, Elrond you old windbag...) Hmmm, more Elrond fighting against the shadow. *drums fingers on desk in thought* Yes, I like, I like... Hmmm... Thank you for the fantastically helpful review!!! :)
tmelange · 9 January 2004 · Chapter 6: Bladed Tongues
Wonderful continuation! I can't wait for more. I'm dying to know what E1 and E2 will think of Estel's new haircut... More soon, please!
Author's reply
tmelange- I have the re-meeting of E2 and Aragorn unofficially marked as Chapter 9. Possibly Chapter 10, though, depending on how things play out in my head. I'm sure they'll love Halbarad. *grin* Thank you for the review! :)
calenore · 9 January 2004 · Chapter 6: Bladed Tongues
LOL, Erestor's feud with Thranduil is... amusing... On a different note... *cringe* I'd never pictured the twins being that... that... nasty, but I suppose if my family had gone through the same things, I might be the same too. And I'm with the Wood-Elves... Radagast is wise and misunderstood. :) Good chapter! I love your writing style
Author's reply
calenore- I love Thranduil too much not to mention him. *lol* He needed to at least appear in letter form. Actually, I slighty rewrote the twins' bad deeds. I thought them a bit much, and some things are better left for imagination, I suppose. It was making me cringe. The Wood-Elves are right, you know--about Radagast. He's completely mad and completely genius. :) Thank you for the review!
Saber · 9 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
*falls over laughing* POOR HALBARAD! So mortified... Well I guess technically she IS his sister though it wouldn't seem that way since he didn't grow up around her like he did with the twins. They ARE related, though distant cousin is a heckuva lot more desireable then *snicker* sister... *on floor STILL laughing*
Author's reply
Saber- *grin* It is an odd thought, isn't it? Halbarad is likely to have nightmares... Thank you for the review!! :)
Orophins Dottir · 8 January 2004 · Chapter 2: Company
I wonder if the good professor had any idea of what he had wrought with the infamous bells of Asfaloth? We all have our theories and running jokes. I, of course, think Glorfindel does it to annoy Elrond, but I love yours as well: Glorfindel paused and blinked. “Ah, yes. My travels took me through Mirkwood.” The golden-haired Elf grimaced. “I was forewarned Thranduil’s kin have habit of shooting first, and then pondering the sagacity of their actions.” “And what of those not of Thranduil’s kin?” Peril gleamed in Glorfindel’s ancient eyes. “If fell creatures are foolish enough to cross my path…” The golden-haired captain shrugged gracefully. “Who am I to deny them swift death?” Glorfindel the Scary. Love it. Shoot first, then ponder sagacity of action. Could I use this as my motto? Seems to fit. Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Orophins Dottir · 8 January 2004 · Chapter 1: Not a Man
It's been so long on this, I've decided to re-read from the beginning. Loved the arrival in the camp: “Pleasant fellow,” Elladan murmured as the trio exited the tent some time later. “I do not like him.” “Mayhap he is one who grows on you over time,” offered Elrohir, ever the optimist. Aragorn grimaced. “I do not think I want him growing anywhere near me.” *Snort.* The Rangers as fungal growth? As a person who likes "odd" humor (This is a tribute, Fair One! Look at what I've done to my poor elves. Don't come no odder than that, Bryn!), may I suggest Lindorien's "Summary Version of the LOTR"? Give it a try. I made myself sick laughing. If we both review, mayhap she will continue on to the "Council of Elrond". I have been patiently waiting. *bows low after shamelessly promoting a story not even her own. Is this elf nuts? Please don't answer that, dear Mentor!* Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil (and eternally in thy debt for pointing out this road to perdition)
grumpy · 8 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
i love this story and the last chapter had me rolling with laughter. From the commune with the dirt, the haircut, lovesick Aragorn, pudding and Bluurrggh. No wonder Aragorn looks the way he does in the movies, Halbarad is still most likly cutting his hair with a dull knife. looking forward to more, can't wait to see what happens in town
Author's reply
grumpy- Aragorn needs a bit of a slap in the face, if you ask me. Flowery dialgue and dreamy sighs are most unbecoming of one in his station. ;) Town will be eventful. Trust me. :) Thank you for the review!
Sphinx · 8 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
*dies laughing* *wipes eyes* This was quite possibly the funniest chapter yet. Phew. The very idea of our Estel getting his dark, tumbling locks shorn off in such a ....er.... refined manner was enough to set the ball rolling. And echoing Halbarad, I too, found his attempts to commune with the dirt highly charming. Gilraen and a son of Elrond? Honestly? I dont know. I've seen some skewed relationships involving those twins, but while this is certainly tamer than some, I really, really cant say. On an interest level, I would like to read it, purely to see if it can be made believable. But somehow it tough....considering I've always imagined Gilraen to be somehting like the lady of the house after she moved into Rivendell - technically making her 'aunt' to the twins.
Author's reply
Sphinx- These are the type of chapters I enjoy writing most, because they're just plain fun. :) I've cut the "romance" part out of the tale, as I mentioned. It was a tension-filled encounter, if anything, but probably not fitting to the tale. Thank you so much for your comments on the matter, and the great review!! :)
e · 7 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
Well another good chapter! Poor Aragorn, indeed. And I found your last chapter particularly interesting, from Glorfindel's point of view and all that. Elladan and Elrohir fascinate me, and I liked what you did with their little, "treason." They never did seem the type to enjoy no action, just watching Sauron. Ah, about getting Aragorn with a woman...*winces* bad idea, Halbarad. And go ahead, bryn, post your little angst piece! what have you to fear, anyway, besides bad reviews? You're writing's good enough, anyway, to make it highly unlikely that the writing itself could be the cause of bad reviews.
Author's reply
e- Yes, as I've said, Glorfindel's a great character to use for sensibility and introspection. Very solid. I think E2 are smart, impulsive, and fierce. And that's a very dangerous combination. They are NOT innocent, by any means. *lol* Halbarad's newest scheme is a very bad idea. Then again, he seems to come up with a lot of them... Thank you for commenting on my romance question! I'm keeping it out of this story, but may end up posting it eventually or somewhere. After all, it is written. Thank you for the wonderful review! :)
runaround · 7 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
Halbarad has voiced the thoughts I've always had on Aragorn perfectly. I love this story.
Author's reply
runaround- *lol* Aragorn's lucky to have as wise a friend as Halbarad. Otherwise, he probably would've never made it past the first week of training. And it's not as though he can go crawling back to Elrond's open arms in Rivendell... ;) Thank you for the review!
websterans · 7 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
Oh, that was just perfect. The transformation of Aragorn from Elf prince to the wild Strider we all know and love...
Author's reply
websterans- *snicker* Aragorn the Elf prince, indeed! Ah yes, thank the Valar for Halbarad! Thank you for the review!
Orophins Dottir · 7 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
Oh, Eru! I am sooooooo glad you are back writing! Have missed you. Halbarad is going to destroy me. I am laughing myself sick. "You, Priss!" Cutting his elven braids. Castigating Aragorn for being in love with "his sister", "lavender soap". Bryn, you will destroy me in the end. Go for it, Bryn! I shall hide you if they seek you with blood in their canon eyes. Hey, I made Arwen sleep with Rumil. I have no shame. (Pre-Aragorn, people, pre-Aragorn! Please don't kill me again!) You promise you will not forget the plot coney of the Elves and Science? I have marked my reminder calendar to look for it! Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Author's reply
Orophins Dottir- *lol* Just you wait until Halbarad and E2 meets up. The world as Aragorn knows it will cease to exist. *grin* As far as the "romance" goes, it only goes as far as an embrace, so nothing too extreme. I'm leaving it out for the sake of this tale though. It probably doesn't fit too well. Hey, Tolkien never said Arwen DIDN'T sleep with Rumil before Aragorn came along. So technically... I promise not to forget the Elves and Science plot. It keeps running through my head as it is. Thank you for the fantastic review!!! :)
calenore · 7 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
Well, between Aragorn the woman and "bluuurrrggghhh" I was laughing through this whole chapter. Of course, Aragorn and movie-Arwen would have my head on their swords if they knew I was laughing at Aragorn's expense but oh well.
Author's reply
calenore- Well, Aragorn had to learn how to be elvish and rangerly somewhere... And I'm inclined to agree with Halbarad on the love-sickness. It can't be good for the career of a Ranger. :) Thank you for the review!
Miriel · 7 January 2004 · Chapter 5: A Bit of a Snag
Hey, Bryn. Lovely chapter. Halbarad is amazing. I love the haircut...that was great. And I can hardly wait to see what will happen in Riordan. :-) Should we all be frightened? :D "Women turn men to pudding." Haha. That was a great analogy. Hm, Gilrean and a son of Elrond? I like that idea. Please, add it, and let me know when you do. (I've included my address.) Update soon, and don't forget your other story in which you so cruelly left us hanging.
Author's reply
Miriel- In a word, Yes. We should be frightened over what will happen in Riordan. ;) I'd be more than happy to email you a copy of the Gilraen/son of Elrond encounter. It only goes as far as an embrace (keeps the story rating down to a minimum). Thank you for the review! :)