I shall be busy with your recommendations!
I was getting suspicious of the lembas corn being so hidden; no permission? *laughs*… really, you described the smell so well my mouth was watering! Celebrian and Ulbanis; talk was delightful. Very happy to see how well Celebrian and Ulbanis got along – they make a good match as conspirators. Neither is so shy; their talk was wonderful. I wish to have pried longer into it. I bet Ulbanis would be intrigued about the Three.
Glorfindel had to be sent away for spending too much time with Celebrian? *grins* I suppose Glorfindel was only too delighted to have an oath to serve Earendil’s family. Still, it is not so nice a thing to keep Ulbanis in suspense of his fate for so many thousands of years. Too bad Elrond had to be disappointed…
I like the get-together and that it tied in Rostaro by his map. Ha – the ladies ended it. It was a vivid scene: could hear and see the swirl skirts and chatter. But the best part was the end as Celebrian led Glorfindel out.
Oh, I am glad we’ll eventually see Rostaro’s family; the mystery makes me crazy.
Once again, enjoyable story!
-Kitt : )
Author's reply
I am very glad you enjoyed the story. :)
*g* Now-now, spending too much time with Celebrian was the excuse for sending Glorfindel off to his true mission. I wish I had taken the time to make the epilogue a full chapter, though. However, it may be a long time before I get back to Rostaro's fate, so don't make yourselve crazy!
Thank you so much for the reviews. They are appreciated!
Kitt Otter
· 7 June 2008
· Chapter 3: Rat-slayer
Geesh, Glorfindel is so conceited… but I LOVED him here - maybe for that. The “Rat-slayer” is too funny… the way he deals with rats, I *almost* feel sorry for any Balrogs he had dealt with.
It is sad about his family disowning him, though is raised an interesting philosophical discussion: is it so bad that they do not want to sit at Manwe’s feet? They have their own ways of service, I guess.
I am plenty glad that over the centuries he has not forgotten Ulbanis!
-Kitt
Author's reply
Ah now, Glorfindel has some maturing to do, just like any hero. :D
I just thought he would need a little more motivation to ever go back to Ennor.
To me, the Vanyar represent institutional morality for the Eldar culture.
He certainly did not. After this, when you get time, you might like to read Bodkin's stories "Exiled" and "Walking the Tightrope".
Kitt Otter
· 6 June 2008
· Chapter 2: Mother-figure
Very sweet chapter! I was pleasantly surprise to see Rostaro as an infant. *wishing to tickle him myself* I loved the Elvish baby talk.
I wish that his parents would be found… a nice project for Galadriel that would be, of course, but almost it would be sad for Ulbanis.
Elrond and Celebrian are as wonderful as ever; they need grandchildren or to set up a nursery or something.
It is interesting that Glorfindel spent his first days as a reborn there. What did Glorfindel do to give Ulbanis such a reaction?
-Kitt :)
Author's reply
Heh! He turned out to be a cute kid. Elflings walk and talk rather quickly, before 1 year old. At the time I was writing this, I was not sure that Rostaro would ever know who his parents were. Now, I know he will one day. But, that day is well off in the future. I need to finish the stories I have started first. *tsk* Why oh why does everyone want them to have a new family? This guest house is remote and Glorfindel was one of the first back from the battles in Ennor. Well, you have found out about G&U, I see. ;D
Kitt Otter
· 4 June 2008
· Chapter 1: Letter-bearer
I never considered how much the Rings would have affected their bearers. Very, very fascinating!
And wonderful descriptions: right now it’s horrendously humid and I could easily relate to the hot and letter-poked Elrond. At least he has Celebrian for comfort. She’s so teasing and amiable; I just love how you make her. You got very well into Elrond’s head. His thoughts of Imladris makes me wistful for him, and I hope that they’ll find themselves another valley. How sad it to think he never did see his grandchildren.
Lookin' forward to more…
Kitt : )
Author's reply
Thank you so much! I am glad you like Celebrian and Elrond both. :)
Getting over the past and looking forward again is an essential part of healing.
I appreciate this and all your reviews!
Ellie
· 11 May 2006
· Chapter 9999: Epilogue
I was just rereading the last two chapters of this tale. I really wish you would write a sequel with Glorfindel finally finding a love and receiving approval from his amille (did I spell that correctly?). You could have his parents reactions to this as well as the reactions of the others who were present in the "map room" at the end of this tale. Surely you could eek a few chapters out of that.
Pretty please with a cherry on top? I really enjoy your writing...
Author's reply
Ellie, you darling person, you!
Having someone wanting more is the greatest flattery a writer, or artist of any sort, could ever hope for! Thank you for asking! However, *eh* I am working on other things, both writing and RL, that necessarily delay any consideration of adding more to this particular tale. You already know that I am not prolific or swift as some, but I will continue to slowly fill in my own story gaps.
Thank you again. And if over a lifetime I had not finally learned how to say 'no' to what I cannot deliver, I would foolishly attempt to please not only you but myself and start on a sequel.
perelleth
· 7 February 2006
· Chapter 9999: Epilogue
ME, again. Got thinking. Of course the elves would not have been "out of time" but rather prisioners of it until the end of Arda. I think Bodkin´s wonderful paradox got me confused here. What I meant is that IMHO they would be flowing in time, but out of history, until the end.
Author's reply
You are right, I think. The world will know them not for they are outside its circles now. But, events in Aman will proceed until the End. I like Marnie's story "Seeds of Old Trees" becuase it posited a future outside of Aman in outer space since they were barred from our earth. I like to think that some of the StarTrek cross-overs I ran across were not so AU at that! ;D
perelleth
· 7 February 2006
· Chapter 9999: Epilogue
YEsterday got very entangled, but here I am.
This Epilogue was a treat to me, because I DO LOVE MAPS!!!! so I was rubbing my hands just guessing the characters, colours, drawings Rostaro might have used for such a present! Finarfin was very thoughtful regarding his guests and Elrond very efficient, to find such an artist. And now I like Rostaro even more, no matter whose son he is.. ;-)
I also like to think that Thranduil would miss his cherished Dorwinion. When you get to realy like a particular vine, it is almost impossible to find another that substitutes it... and he must have missed it for looong! By I am digressing.
As I told you in my previous review, the setting and the context are terribly intriguing and well developed, so it takes no effort to forget that we are speaking of Elvenhome, and get completely immersed in this promising stage. Tolkien says that they were "out of time", until the end of Arda, and in that sense I understand that they would also be "out of history", but it is very difficult to imagine conflict and developements in that situation. Your context is perfect to me, and it gives much room for guessing and following them, and I really love that.
I much prefer Aramillë to Reverend Mother, yet I was sure that I could trace them around here! Good job! The setting for the conversation between Celebrían and Ulbanís is perfect, apart from their words I thought I could glimpse their expressions, their looks and gestures, that were surely part of that exchange full of hidden meanings. Again, good good job!
I liked how the "girls" put an end to the meeting, and how GLorfindel took time for himself and made such a discovery. The whole scene was very vivid, as Celebrían came to interrupt him and drag him to the light.
And now I wonder what intrigues me most: whether going ahead and following GLorfindel and his conflict, or going a bit back in time and seeing how Elrond and Celebrían undoubtedly exercised a kind tutoring over young and promising Rostaro. You choose. I'll be waiting.:-)
Author's reply
And I am glad of your return. ;)
I get an enormous kick out of the theatrical use of maps. You know the kind that cover the wall or are inlaid into the throne-room floor. The fancier the better! I just thought Finarfin might host a "world conference" to recognise the new realms. These maps were meant to be put on display for the benefit of the other guests. I am so glad you like Rostaro, but I fear part of his appeal is his unknown heritage. What will happen to that appeal when it is revealed?
You sounds as if you have a favorite wine that is unsubstitutable.
Thank you very much for saying that!
Thank you again! I read Dune decades ago and the first movie and cable version were very entertaining for me as well. But, the servants of Nienna in this story are based more on the medieval hospital orders than an esoteric cult. I think both our ladies know it is better to say nothing than to say too much. ;)
I enjoyed how they took control, too! Glorfindel just wasn't in a party mood, I think. But, a little personal attention always turns a guy's mood around like flowers do a gal's, I guess.
I will probably have more to tell about these characters after a while. However, I don't think that E&C really had much contact with Rostaro until he was grown and on his own. Then, their paths crossed again. Bodkin would probably know more about what happened with Glorfindel or Ulbanis after this point in time. We'll just have to wait and see after I get another chapter of CSING done. If I ever get it done...
Thank you for reviewing!
perelleth
· 6 February 2006
· Chapter 4: Gossip-queen
Well, this is a quite toughtless review, since I do not have much time, but I couldn't resist reading.... and was worth it...
Even if I cringe at the underlying sense of tightness, imprisionment, strict rules and prohibitions, which does not sit well with my vision of Aman, it is exquisitely wrapped up and makes a wonderful, interesting, perfectly crafted, multi-layered world with such a depth that makes the reader want far more information, and then more, and more, and more.
Did you read Frank Herbert's Dune boooks?
The two ladies hinting at shared knowledge, that unspoken pact of silence, the equal sense of practicity, the respect for a policy of secrecy yet the knowledge to bend its limits to fulfill the inner aims of their order, without being hindered by its rules is clearly, elegantly conveyed through this fluid flow, dance of words and silences, of words spoken and things left unsaid. Exquisite.
And Glorfindel's misfortunes are well crafted and truly beliavable in your context. I began to believe for a minute that Rostaro was Glorfindel's son! That's intriguing!
Celebrían shows herself as a consistent character, a powerful, intelligent elleth, and a worth companion to Elrond. I wonder what would Elrond have thought had he ever heard these two ladies conversing...
I'll try to snatch some time for the Epilogue later in the morning, but I really enjoyed this one. The opening description was wondrous, Redheredh. I'm amazed.
Author's reply
Perelleth! You are more than thoughtful! I am so glad you liked this chapter!
I am sorry for the mental stress I have inflicted on you by my messing with paradise. I probably would prefer your vision if it was myself in Aman. ;) But, thank you so much for stepping past that and looking at this story according to its own premise.
And yes, I have read the first two Dune books and enjoyed them immensely. I am flattered that you would think of them when reading my story. Dune is the reason I have assiduously avoided using the term Reverend Mother.
I am very happy that you enjoyed their conversation. Thank you!
lol! Putting that idea about Rostaro into the reader's head was my goal. Celebrian just wasn't entirely sure. And if you noticed, Ulbanis did not say who gave Rostaro his name anyway.
Often people say Galadriel would not choose a loser husband and I don't think Elrond would choose a loser wife especially after waiting so long. He is not someone who would have to settle. Somehow, I think Elrond would have liked the ladies' interaction just as he did when he joined them even though it was not exactly the subject he would have chosen.
Thank you so much for taking the time and letting me know you liked it! You made my day!
Ellie
· 4 February 2006
· Chapter 9999: Epilogue
I loved the way the ladies swarmed in a took over. Too funny!
I hope Glorfy will be happy now. Poor guy. I still want to know what Rostaro menas to him.
Excellent story! Leaves room for a sequel. *wink wink nudge nudge*
Author's reply
I enjoyed that, too!
Maybe, we'll find out someday. ;)
Heh! I will continue to relay what I find out about these characters. But, who knows when and what that shall be?
Thank you so much for taking the time to review! I am glad you have enjoyed it.
Ellie
· 4 February 2006
· Chapter 4: Gossip-queen
Loved the exchange between the two women. It was wonderful to see them become fast friends. I hope Elrond ends coming and helping out there some time.
I am confused as to Glorfindel's connection to Rostaro. Please clarify...
Thanks for another wonderful chapter!
Author's reply
Well, who knows how fateful this meeting is?
*sigh* Like everyone else, you will just have to read the story as it unfolds. ;)
Thank you for reviewing!
utfrog98
· 4 February 2006
· Chapter 9999: Epilogue
Please keep this going. I have enjoyed it so much. It covers subject matter that I had not really thought much about skillfully.
Thank you!
Author's reply
Well, I intend to continue in some fashion with this sort of subject matter, certainly. Whether that will be skillfully or swiftly remains to be seen. ;)
Thank you for reviewing! It is a good thing to do for every story you read.
Bodkin
· 4 February 2006
· Chapter 9999: Epilogue
The picture of Galadriel blushing when Celeborn kisses her on the lips in public. He'd have enjoyed that. She's not easy to disconcert - I can imagine that, even if she had grown accustomed to the habit east of the sea, she would have started blushing again when he arrived in the Blessed Realm and kissed her in front of her parents.
I like this party - and the arrival of the maps. Finarfin would want maps. Nice, ordered maps with borders. And roads and trade routes and centres of population. And made by Rostaro - who clearly, then must have been there.
And, too, Ulbanis is suffering official disapproval that prevents Glorfindel from visiting her. He'll find that frustrating. I fancy he would rather ride to the rescue on Rosinante and tilt at some windmills. But he's learned patience over his return to Ennor.
....... Don't the New Realms need houses for the return of the Umanyar? Peaceful places among ancient trees, where the rigid rules of old have been superseded by accommodation to need? I would have thought that the Valar might have given the nod to such changes in traditional ways.
Love the way the ladies come in and drag their lords to dinner - and Celebrian comes back for Glorfindel, who makes her an excellent brother.
This is a lovely story. I'm sorry to see it end. You wouldn't consider writing Rostaro's story now? Please?
Author's reply
lol! You are certainly right! ;) I have always thought that *generally* the Umanyar would have less rigid marriage customs, resulting in different expectations about displays of affection. They would be more likely to wed without the "benefit of clergy" as Tolkien says in LACE. They would express themselves more with their children because they live in a more dangerous world than Aman.
Well, the occasion is rather like a world conference that Finarfin is, by everyone's reasonable expectation, hosting. Especially with his familial connections. The elaborated maps are meant to be presented and displayed for all the guests as part of the festivities. But, I am not sure I understand what you mean about Rostaro having been in the new West. He definitely worked on these pieces before he helped out with Oropher. But, it was circumspection on his part not to talk about his specific assignment with anyone then or later.
Yep, she does vital work, but is not the very model of an aramille. Glorfindel knows how important her work is to her and will not jeopardize it. You are certainly right again - he has finally learned patience.
Hmmm, this is a intriguing possibility. The regimes are different than the old. Surely, there have been reborn failures that could have been prevented by wise care and the edhil would want to prevent them from continuing. Ulbanis is someone the Valar have deigned to address these sorrows; they personally advised her what her path should be. Their favor is no doubt another reason why she has not be sacked by the adminstration. Must I keep reminding you that she is your oc...?
Heh! I liked the ladies taking charge, too. I figure Glorfindel has become a part of Celebrian and Elrond's family. Another reason he can delay seeing Ulbanis or getting all angsty over ever going back to the Holy Mountain.
Well, Rostaro's childhood is nothing spectacular. And like Celebrian says, until he wants to know, there will be no looking for his parents. However, he has obviously become entangled in the Sindar royals' fortunes in Aman. There has to be a reason for that, one would think. ];}
Many thanks for reviewing, you encourage me no end. Yes, you bear much of the blame for this, so deal with it. :)
Bodkin
· 4 February 2006
· Chapter 4: Gossip-queen
I love Celebrian. She is a wise and experienced elf and knows all about making accommodation to unworkable rules. I enjoyed watching her follow her nose through the gently confusing grounds to sniff out the corn stash. And the unspoken conversation on said subject.
The description of the slightly run-down appearance of a smallholding - things built for use and not eternal splendour, is excellent - Aman so often appears glossy and perfect, but not all elves are kings and not all places are palaces. I can just see this - As in the poorer parts of Tirion, the place had a neglected quaintness that came from worn-down things that were infrequently replaced. The Blessed Realm has a reality beneath its meditative peace and eternal tranquillity.
The delicate approach to an exchange of information - I'm not surprised these two offer friendship to each other. They are so suited. And poor Elrond! How can he begin to know the level of the discussion, since so much is left unsaid. I like the description of him as being one with a shielded heart. How can he not be? He has lost so much so relentlessly. It will take him an age or two to open himself to any risk. And even then....
Ulbanis has had a long, long wait to discover the Glorfindel's fate. I wonder if there is an element of punishment in that! She's not supposed to develop any level of relationship with her clients. Almost two ages of worrying over him! And Celebrian's story of his arrival and their careful creation of a background for him so that he can go to Lindon and protect Elrond. Sent away for admiring Celebrian too much! Clever. And they are both seeking the name of a particular? That must be a disappointment to Celebrian!
I like her further enquiries on Rostaro. More is clearly needed on the subject! And there are a few things Ulbanis could learn from Celebrian.
And the Amille is Vanyar. Blonde, then.
Author's reply
*g* I realized after writing this scene how much it made Ulbanis sound like a moonshiner or pothead. But, hers is the problem of those who brew home remedies in rural communities. They mean to alleviate life-threatening suffering, not provide recreation. Descretion and judgment are very important when handling such potent substances.
Thank you! Still, simplicity is part of that meditative peace and eternal tranquiltiy, I think. A simpler life is available to anyone, whether a king in a palace or worker in the field. Every elf has the opportunity to enjoy the true rewards of life in Aman. If not the inclination. That is the allure of the forest live as well.
"delicate"? What a interesting word to describe it! What if these were two crafty lords instead? I really feel that as ring-bearers Elrond and Galadriel had to develop stronger mental and emotional defenses. Elrond is burdened with being handed off between guardians as well. Then, he loses his brother, the closest and most trusted person in his life. You are right, he would have to become emotionally tough. This probably helps him as a healer - to have some detachment along with great compassion. What an emotional balancing act that has to be. What does it feel like to lose those who love you and have to learn to perform as well as ever, but without a net? Where do you find the courage?
Time does ease emotional pain, I think. We learn that we can set it aside until another time. Which sadly does come, sometimes before we are prepared for it. I had not thought that the Valar were punishing Ulbanis for making a friend of Glorfindel! Thinking too much like her, I guess... But, just fate tearing people apart is a good reason for the rule in the first place. And, she does not learn her lesson and goes on to mother Rostaro. But, in his case, to a good outcome, we hope. "clever"? Thank you! ;) I am supposing that Celebrian knows all about Glorfindel's affairs and has an idea that someone of them was The One. I really think she assumed Ulbanis' role was maternal from the getgo.
Rostaro stirred up her maternal instincts, too. But, any connections are still too vague, it seems, for either of them to want to upset things as they are. At least, at the moment.
Heh! Yes, another one...
Thank you so much for reviewing! I am very glad you find this entertaining.
perelleth
· 30 January 2006
· Chapter 3: Rat-slayer
Rat-slayer indeed. It made me laugh, too! This self-centered Glorfindel is so funny, and how he feels overwhelmed by the number of thngs he may have done, or forgot doing, to cause her sorrow and hey! it is not about him in the end! There's a hidden piece of so profound knowledge about how males' brains (is that a contradiction in terms?) work that I had to stop there and give a laugh or two!
Even if our views on this matter (Valinor) are totally different, I like how you manage to imply the depth of the problem. A disowned, rejected, malcontent Vanyarin Glorfindel makes an interesting approach of his story. And I really like the relationship he has with Ulbanis... a strong friendship that might... evolve eventually?
Only... I was a bit unsettled by how harshly they deal with -and speak of- the rats in the first part... they're Yavanna's creatures, after all... but,that's only me, I'd guess. ;-) Tell mother Ulbanis for me that building a store upon stone pillars and leaving a good gap between the stone stair and the entrance to the store has been an ages long solution to keep rats from grain.. and she would not need to massacre the creatures then! :-) ( LAthough, on second thoughts, she would not need her rat-slayer, either, and that would be a pity....)
Nice, entertaining chaper Redheredh! Apologies for the dely, but I´m on the run again... and online time becomes a rarity these days...
Author's reply
I am so pleased you found it entertaining! :D And men do so have brains!
Glad I did not totally turn you off the story! I was afraid I was doing a PeterJackson and getting too caught up in developing the hero's motivation to the detriment of his future personality. Ya know, Bodkin is wondering where this relationship is leading as well. But then, she can dictate where we can only suggest.
You feel sorry for the rats? Oh, I do understand for I dislike cruelty to animals as well. However, elves are farmers and hunters so... Ulbanis did say she would have done something more to discourage them if she knew they would become such a problem. It may be that the usual methods just did not work as well as they should have. But, I think the wide-spread problem will be alleviated. Perhaps by Yavanna herself,if the Valar deign to involve themselves. Glorfindel would have come to see Ulbanis no matter what before he would leave Eldamar. He *just happened* to show up when she also needed him.
Thank you so much! I hope the trip is going well and I am really happy to hear from you!
Thanks very, very much for the review!
Ellie
· 29 January 2006
· Chapter 3: Rat-slayer
I felt so sorry for Glorfindel. I had never before considered that his parents might have disowned him. Poor guy!
I like the realtionship he has with the Mother and I loved his signature on the letter. I hope you will write a runion chapter for them. This was precious.
More, please!
Author's reply
Gosh, I just figured if he were a Vanyar and not Noldor royal like most people assume he would need some heavy personal motivation to do the crazy... eh, heroic... things he does.
Next chapter, some more explanation, but not from Glorfindel himself. ;) And who knows about a reunion. However, it is not planned as part of this story.
Thank you for taking the time to review! I do appreciate it.
Bejai
· 29 January 2006
· Chapter 3: Rat-slayer
Heh. Glorfindel the Rat Slayer. Too funny! I enjoyed how this chapter went back and forth between humor and seriousness. I think with Glorfindel, things would have a tendency to do that. The list where Glorfindel apologizes for everything he might have done made me laugh out loud ;)
I enjoyed your realistic portrayal of the business and politics that would have to be behind a house for the reborn -- charity, the support of the community, an annoying landlord, a sense of responsibility both to the people you serve and the people who make it possible. I think it would be so, even in Valinor.
Author's reply
Oh so you liked that ephitaph? Glad you enjoyed his confusion. ;)
Hey, you are active in your church and can appreciate the subject matter. So, I appreciate the compliment. Although, I am sure you would have said to take it out of you had betaed the chapter. ];}
Thank you again for the reviews!
Bejai
· 29 January 2006
· Chapter 2: Mother-figure
Whoops! Somehow, I missed this chapter. Sorry about that!
I'm really intrigued by your idea of the reborn, and love the fact that there are people who look out for them. Interesting the pain they have to take, speaking "only" with lips so as not to upset the recently-returned. And Elrond's thoughts about the fate of newly reborn children was spot on, especially considering his life experience. A very interesting insight, there.
Heh. I love Elrond and Celebrian interacting with little Rostaro. They would be quite confident around children, having raised three of their own, plus many of the fosterlings at Imladris.
Right. Now onto the next chapter. Sorry I got behind!
Author's reply
*Wha?* Dear Lady, 'tis I who owe you every courtesy.
Thank you. But, I sometimes do feel that the whole hard truth is better than soft-hearted lies. Depends on the person, I suppose.
Yes, that was my thought too. I know I have a nanny for C&G, but they have a larger household and child-issues all their own.
Thanks for the review! And the next!
Bodkin
· 29 January 2006
· Chapter 3: Rat-slayer
I love the picture of Glorfindel in his saggy, muddy-kneed leggings comforting Ulbanis. And how well she understands him!
Author's reply
Ha! And how well you rephrase my descriptions! ;) I do appreciate the instruction though.
You and your second reviews... Not that I am unhappy to see them! Not at all!
Bodkin
· 28 January 2006
· Chapter 3: Rat-slayer
What a gorgeous Glorfindel - self-centred, of course, but hey, that's pretty much what you'd expect from a hero who has returned to be rejected by the rather smug elves west of the sea. (In a way it makes his relationship with Ulbanis more mother/son. Kids never know when it's about you rather that you-in-relation-to-them.) I love him comforting her - and offering to become Aman's own Pied Piper.
I had never thought about things like rats and death-watch beetle and bacteria arriving back in Aman with the host. And it would be like mice and rabbits and Australia, wouldn't it? (I remember seeing film of grain stores in Australia that were nothing but seething masses of mice. Ugh.) No understanding of the problem and no natural predators. Even the cats, over the generations, have unlearned ratting.
Glorfindel's family sounds a right pain! I'm not surprised he is desperately seeking a purpose in his new life. A good thing that (I hope) Manwe will listen to him and see the perfect task for him. Ulbanis recognises from his letter that he is happy - he has grown into the role given him and it has suited his needs.
And even after a couple of Ages, he is still her friend - and rat-catcher.
Just out of interest - and not, of course, because a romantic interest between Glorfindel and Ulbanis would be a delight - do the vows of those dedicated to Nienna last for ever? It's one thing among Men, where life-long vows last at maximum about 70 years - but life-long among elves is until the end of the world! And, even in Aman, where things take their time, change eventually happens.
Now I'm going to go and read it again a couple of times. Just to enjoy the political and social nuances of elven society, of course. Not to picture a wet and unhappy Ulbanis and a muddy, depressed Glorfindel together over spoiled grain, a crate of dead rats and squelchy grass. Not at all!
Author's reply
To me, Glorfindel has a tough job that requires a good measure of self-confidence and that would not come from being an actual prince. So, his talents have got to be stellar. Thankfully as a Vanyar, he has a good heart to go with it. I had thought about the Pied Piper image he might project, and perhaps that sort of thing being carried out by a Maia or Vala as the answer to Aman's problem. ;)
Ah yes, here again I violate the sensibilities of many about the paradise that awaits in the Undying Lands. But, I have never met a Land of Milk and Honey that did not have a few problems going on within it. Natural or otherwise.
Once again, we can pretty much guess the Valar's motivations for sending help eastward, but what were the motivations of their agents? And how much freedom were they allowed before their contracts would be abrogated? I like to think of the Istari and Glorfindel as, in a sense, privateers.
I fancy like any people that have come through an crisis together, they will remain close even if they never see eachother again. Service buddies often never want their comrades to use any name other than their nicknames. Even grown children appreciate being called by old endearments.
I actually do not know about Ulbanis' vows. I suppose, as in our world, clerical callings can be relinquished. But, ya know, Ulbanis does belongs to you... if you have some suspicions about her future.
Ha! You should talk! After the all the mud you have put E2L through!
Thanks for the review!
Ellie
· 25 January 2006
· Chapter 2: Mother-figure
Loved teh chapter and little guy is sooooo cute. Loved the interaction between Elrond and Celebrian and the baby and the reation to Elrond playing airplane with the baby (too funny). Must admit I'm not confused as to the mother's relationship to Glorifndel. Please clarify this for me. I'm reading several stories right now and they are getting a bit jumbled in my mind.
Looking forward to more of this tale!
Author's reply
I am very glad you like Rostaro et al in this chapter. When he was reborn, Glorfindel spent his first days of new life getting use to being alive again at this guesthouse and was cared for by Ulbanis. Next chapter will clarify their relationship.
Thank you very much for reviewing. It is appreciated.
Larner
· 21 January 2006
· Chapter 2: Mother-figure
I love the relationship between the Reverend Mother and the reborn infant. How difficult it must be at times to have to give such children over to be fostered. And will be interesting to see if this story follows the inquiry Celebrian obviously is dying to make.
Author's reply
As Ulbanis says, this is how it should be between mother and child. At least she can visit with him since he has been fostered by a family in the village.
Who doesn't want to know what's in the letter? Next chapter, some explanation of Ulbanis and Glorfindel's relationship.
Thank you very much for reviewing. It is appreciated.
Larner
· 21 January 2006
· Chapter 1: Letter-bearer
I have a distinct idea that the two of them do NOT intend to remain separate from one another while in the guesthouse. And I had never considered the effects of the loss of the power on either the Three nor their bearers. Intriguing!
Author's reply
Heh, of course, they will behave themselves while guests under Ulbanis' roof. ;)
Glad you find this tale intriguing. I hope you find the rest just as interesting.
Thank you for the kind review!
Bodkin
· 21 January 2006
· Chapter 2: Mother-figure
Oh my. Oh delight, delight. Rostaro is the most gorgeous baby. I love him with Ulbanis - she just adores him. He couldn't have a better substitute mother if he was able to choose his own. A
nd I love his fascination with Celebrian and Elrond. (They need another baby themselves. If not several.) He responds beautifully to Celebrian - and she seems to have some kind of magic powers when it comes to helping babies sleep. And the bit with Elrond throwing him up in the air made me laugh - it is such an adar thing to do with a little ellon. Women just don't appreciate flying babies. At least, not unless they have learned from experience that the male in question isn't going to drop the baby.
The discussion over finding the families of reborn babies is really good. I like the Sherlock Holmes-ishness of Celebrian here. And it would make a splendid project for Galadriel - although I don't think Ulbanis would be very happy to lose little Rostaro to his family.
“Laurefindë sends this to you.”
Fascinating reaction. Surprised. Shaken. Very keen to read the letter. But not, according to Celebrian, who is good at seeing things, loving. Want to know more!
I enjoyed this so much! I shall have to read it some more times to pick up all the nuances.
Author's reply
I am very happy you liked this little glimpse of their early lives! Ulbanis truly believes that special people are sent her way and cares very much for them all.
Ha! You are always pushing for their increasing the population. ;) As to putting babies to sleep, C's adar was pretty good at it too. And most Lindar seem to think baby-tossing is as normal as kissing their fat little cheeks. After all, a wood-elf's feet are often off the ground and a sea-elf flies on the wind across the water. Most Golodhrim etc. seem to find the idea of flying a little scary, perhaps a bit like challenging Sulimo's jurisdiction.
I think you are right that Ulbanis would have to be persuaded that they would not be creating a lot of heartache for everyone involved. It would have to be accomplished with magical means, I think. Only other way would be for the Valar to outright tell them. Or some sort of 'recognition' between him and his blood-kin.
I really had to think about translating Glorfindel's Sindarin name back to his Quenya name because the northern Sindarin folk did not actually translate the meanings of the names as much as find a comfortable phonetic version that carried similar connotations. And then, I just went with the simplest and most obvious anyway. *sheesh*
Hmm, I think you mean Elrond. He judged Ulbanis' reaction as being not loving.
Next chapter there is a defining moment with Ulbanis and Laurefinde.
I am so glad you are enjoying this tale! Thank you!
perelleth
· 21 January 2006
· Chapter 2: Mother-figure
Oh my! I had forgotten Rostaro's "unusual" circumstances... I am as puzzled as Elrond is, considering it all. Poor one twice, I'd say, to have died at such young age and to have been rehoused, er.. reborn, witout hints of his parentagen. But then, Celebrian is ready to reopen a "missing" file. She´s right, I deem in that would be a time-consuming occupation for Galadriel until her lord arrives...
As one who has been in charge of an eighteen months old pack of endless stamina for the last two weeks, I can only agree with Ulbanis: exhausting them is the best thing... if you are not exhausted first, though!
Baby Rostaro is lovely! And Elrond and Celebrian clearly enjoyed the chance of showing off their skills as experienced parents... Grandchildren are out of their reach for now, sadly.
And now, too, I´m very intrigued by the contents of Glorfindel´s letter, and the nature of his relationship with Ulbanis.
Author's reply
I really do not know how they would investigate the mystery except through some magical means. But I think, Ulbanis would need convincing that they were not just stirring up heartache for all involved.
Well, then you know! A nephew, I take it. ;)
Actually, I think they are enjoying the priviledge of all grandparents. Playing with the kids, spoiling them if you like, and then giving them back. :D
Glad you are intrigued enough to continue.
Next chapter, a defining moment between Ulbanis and Laurefinde.
Thank you so much for the review!
Ellie
· 15 January 2006
· Chapter 1: Letter-bearer
This story is very interesting and very unusual. I like Elrond's therapy for himself of delivering messages on behalf of those still in Middle-earth. I also like his watching his lady. Very romantic and very amusing. I'm looking forward to reading more.
Author's reply
I am very glad that you have found this chapter interesting and amusing. I don't get unusual as a comment very often. But, I kinda like it. :D
However, I take it as a real compliment that you think it is romantic. There will be about three more chapters which I hope you will also enjoy.
Thank you so much for the kind review!