Elf, Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel Redux by Fiondil
Elena Tiriel · 26 June 2007 · Chapter 104: Camping Out
Hi Fiondil, I am really enjoying this story! You have a gift for characterizations that makes it fascinating reading. I look forward to updates! - Barbara
Author's reply
Hi Barbara, I'm glad you are enjoying the story. Thanks for your comments about my gift for characterization. I try very hard to make all my characters (even the walk-ons) three-dimensional and "real". I appreciate it when readers tell me when I get something right.
Ellie · 26 June 2007 · Chapter 104: Camping Out
The camping trip was a delight - jealousy, rain, and all. I love the little bits of personality you add to the characters here and there with their quirks and perks. Such a delightful tale you are so masterfully telling!
Author's reply
Finrod did tell Vorondil they would go camping and bring Laurendil along and Laurendil loves it when it rains... so I had to keep both ellyn happy, didn't I? *wink* And it's nice, every once in a while, to write about something that really has nothing to do with anything except showing people enjoying themselves.
Ellie · 26 June 2007 · Chapter 103: The King of Nargothrond's Squire
My goodness, Alassiel has a temper on her! I think it is funny that Finrod is getting so exasperated with her, too. Poor Finrod with his hair getting stuck. OUCH! Loved that last bit with the unsticking process and the swearing. too funny.
Author's reply
Even "Finrod the yummy", as someone called him, has his breaking point. *lol* And all the long hair.... it's bound to cause trouble at least once in a while.
Nariel · 25 June 2007 · Chapter 104: Camping Out
Fiondil, I think I was getting too excited with all the events in the previous chapters, this one thankfully gave me time to slow down and rest. I like this one because the story's pace is slowing down to give everyone a break including you. Alassiel is GREATLY improving with her attitude. If she keeps going, she will end up as a female version of Vorondil. I know this is random, but I can by now identify all your characters that have something special about them, except Amarie. It just seems that she NEEDS to do something EXTREMELY shocking OR important in the story for me and other readers who feel the same way to define her from the rest of your and Tolkien's All Star characters. May you please do somthing about it in some near future chapter????????????????????????????????????????????????? Thank you so much for updating daily!!!!! Cheers for Fiondil!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hip-hip-Hooray!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I just remembered though but since GLorfindel and Finrod are your favorite characters in Tolkien I think that you need to go onto either Henneth-Annun or Fanfiction.net, if you want to read some good stories about them. I warn you though that it might take some time for you to find a stry you are happy with. Nariel, is SO very happy with "Elf, Interrupted" and how the story WILL be COMPLETED. Also, how do you like China? I am enchanted with the country's history and mythology. What's your favorite part about living there? Namarie... P.S. I keep forgetting to ask you this but what does Tinwetariel and Alassiel mean? P.P.S. I have finally figured out (hopefully) why you named Vorondil, 'Vorondil.' I had remembered that 'Voro' is elvish for 'faithful' and 'dil' is 'friend' so put it all together and Vorondil means 'Friend of the Faithful.' That fits perfectly since Vorondil is friends with Finrod, who is often called and titled 'The Faithful' because of what he did for Beren son of Barahir in dark, fateful Tol-in-Gaurhoth where he died a noble death...*Weep. Mourn for Finrod* By the way is 'Vorondil' Vorondil's mother-name because Tolkien said that mothers of the Eldar had forsight into their chaildren's future. P.P.P.S. <-Do these initials exist? Well...who cares? Why name Tinwetariel's husband 'Ingoldo' if he is not wise? P.P.P.P.S. Okay, I realize now that this should just be included in the main review but I am just to lazy to transfer it up there now though. My last thing is, Fiondil, may you write little or shorter stories about Finrod while finishing this story or after you finish it? May you? I just love your FInrod that I REALLY want you to write some of your own versions. Namarie...Again...
Author's reply
Whoa, girl! Slow down! I'm glad you are able to identify all the characters that have something special about them and I will see what I can do about Amarië. She will be showing up for the tournament anyway, and we'll have to see... Tinwetariel means "daughter of the Star-Queen", i.e. Varda/Elbereth. Alassiel means "daughter of joy". Ingoldo is named so because I wanted members of Ingwë's family to have "Ing-" as part of their name. As I decided that Ingwë had a brother, since Indis is his sister, I borrowed this name. It does have a certain irony attached to it, though, considering the character. Your analysis of Vorondil's name is correct in terms of its meaning, though not necessarily in terms of why I gave him that name. *grin* Ilike China very much and will be staying here for at least another year. My favorite part of living here is that I have plenty of free time from my teaching duties to write LOTR fan fiction, something I never had any time for back in the States. As for writing additional stories about Finrod... we'll have to see what the muse has in mind.
Kitty · 25 June 2007 · Chapter 104: Camping Out
Oh yes, the camping trip – I had nearly forgotten. Vorondil must be so happy! As for Alassiel ... I am glad to know she is coming around and seeing her own faults. Realising her arrogance was a first step, and helping Vorondil with the fish another. I think I begin to see why Námo and Irmo wanted Finrod as an apprentice – he is good at making others see their folly and to work with people they resented before. This will be helpful in the future to reunit the elves. Don’t know if to be amused or to shake my head and mutter something about ‚ellyn’ about dancing in the rain. Well, it was funny that *Vorondil* was the first one to run for shelter, not the ellith. And that the latter joined in the dance, even Alassiel ... *grin*
Author's reply
I'm sure many people forgot about the camping trip, but Finrod always keeps his promises. *grin* I have no doubt that Finrod's talent of working with "damaged" elves is one reason why Irmmo and Námo chose him as their apprentice. It will be a useful talent on the macro-level of helping to heal all of Aman just as it is on the micro-level of dealing with individual elves and their problems. As for the 'raindance'... Finrod did tell Vorondil that Laurendil didn't think it was a proper camping trip unless it rained at some point and both ellyn have probably been in too many downpours during patrols in Beleriand to care any more. *lol*
Kitty · 25 June 2007 · Chapter 103: The King of Nargothrond's Squire
Well, the explosion was only to be expected, I suppose. Having to help Finrod to don his armour and then to clean it has to seem demeaning for Alassiel. And I doubt sword fighting did truly help in this respect, though all of this appears to have opened an outlet for her aggressions. Hopefully she will be more bearable after she had the opportunity to let go of some of her anger. And with her grandparents gone, there is nobody dripping poison in her ear any longer. Tinwetariel can probably be glad she is far away from Finrod – if she’d been nasty to him, it would have backfired quite a bit, I suspect. Thoug it would have been interesting to watch.
Author's reply
I think Finrod has determined that Alassiel's agressions and any remaining poison from her grandparents'influence needs a constructive outlet and swordfighting would be one such avenue. It would indeed have been interesting to see Finrod face off against Tinwetariel. I have no doubt as to who would come out the winner. *grin*
eiluj · 25 June 2007 · Chapter 104: Camping Out
“unfortunately French” -- *snicker* Nice (for all concerned) that things are going better. Given our drought, I’d feel like dancing in the rain too -- but *our* rain, on the rare occasions when we see it, always seems to involve lightning. Still a need for guarding Maiar. Hm.... (Not that I wasn’t *already* going “Hm.”)
Author's reply
Lord Irmo is taking no chances, hence the Maiar guards, even if the elves are unaware of them. It would have been neat if Tolkien had developed some terms for different parts of the armor in the Eldarin language. We have words for helm and shield but that's about it. *sigh* So I was reduced to using *our* terms for them and hope readers would a). forgive me and b). mentally translate them into "elvish" on their own. For many readers, I suspect, the terms, even though in French, are alien enough to make the mental switch easier.
Nariel · 25 June 2007 · Chapter 103: The King of Nargothrond's Squire
Okay...Either Finrod is really good with punishments or Alassiel is just weak in determination and mind... If I were Alassiel I would be THROWING all the armor AT Finrod the moment he tells me what I am supposed to do. Thank you also for answering All my questions and reviews. Muchas gracias! The armor lesson was very interesting since I just never thought of Finrod bing the type of guy who punishes that way. I really just NEVER thought of Finrod being mean. Out of plain curiosity, doesn't it ever occur to you that in Fanfiction he is basically a perfect character? Everything about him is perfect. His family life is perfect, all his friends are loyal beyond reason, and lastly his love life is like perfect. Can you please answer this question of mine? I do like though how you are in Finrod's voice being VERY repititive with the chaperone that is always there whenever Alassiel is with Finrod. It's a bit humorous that Finrod keeps mentioning it to her. I just do not see what he could do to her. Do you? It's nice to know though that we both like Finrod in The Sil. Unfortunately my favorite character in the LOTR is Gandalf... This is plain curiosity. (Did I spell that wrong?) By the info you have in your story or should I say NOVEL, do you happen to have ALL the HOME books? Cause I am looking for War of the Jewels. If you do have them all can you tell me a GOOD place to find them ALL? Apparently every bookstore I go to they do not have War of the Jewels. Sorry bout the last bit. Namarie...
Author's reply
The armor lesson was not meant to be a punishment (unless you're the one having to learn about it), but a necessary aspect of being a squire. You have to know how to put the armor on your lord. That's just part of the deal. The sword lessons though are another matter and here we see Finrod being less than polite about it, though again, it is a necesary part of the education of any squire (or it certainly was in our own medieval history). As I've never really read any other fanfiction stories about Finrod, I can't say. However, if that is true, then he can't be a very interesting character. No one is perfect, not even the Valar. That is what makes them three-dimensional characters who have good points and bad points. If they're perfect, why bother reading about them? Since I'm not perfect I can't identify with such a character. It's the not-perfect-but-striving-to-be-the-best-they-can-be sort of character with whom I can relate, since that is the condition in which I find myself. Writers who offer up perfection fail their readers one one level. And the opposite is also true — characters who are all evil are equally uninteresting and useless. They, in fact, make my skin crawl, but not for the reasons the author's probably intended. Finrod mentioning the chaperone is not a question of "what could he possibly do to Alassiel?" but rather a statement showing that Alassiel's reputation (being an unmarried elleth) is not being compromised. She is a member of the Vanyarin royal court and as such she is under scrutiny by said court and everyone else in Aman. Finrod's assurance of having a proper chaperone (and who is going to dispute the testimony of a Maia?) is for her own protection. He is in fact looking out for her best interest in this. I used to have the entire HoME collection in hardback but when I moved to China I gave them to my local library so others could enjoy them. I do have them scanned on a cd that a friend gave me knowing I would have no other access to them here in China. It's not a perfect solution as for some reason the indices were not scanned so it's nearly impossible to look something up immediately. I usually have to slog through the pages or ask my friend to give me a page reference. Have you tried to special order a copy through one of your bookstores? That's about the only thing I can suggest.
vampfan30 · 24 June 2007 · Chapter 104: Camping Out
been a while since I last reviewed for you.... RL has been insane lately. Anyhoo, this story just gets better & better & better...... you get the idea. Finrod is an interesting guy - he really has a special touch with those that are bitter or otherwise damaged.It is neat to watch him work.....
Author's reply
It is part of the reason Lord Irmo made Finrod his apprentice, the fact that he has a special touch with those who are bitter or otherwise damaged. That talent will come in handy as Finrod moves from working on healing individuals to healing the whole of Aman as one of the Fëanuturilidi.
Nariel · 23 June 2007 · Chapter 89: A Ceremony Revised
Sorry about all my reviews being out of order! I really enjoyed this chapter especially with Arafinwe's 'Family discount.' (What was he thinking?) I liked seeing Sador improve his Quenya. He's such a genius! He already knows his 'brothers' names in Quenya! Uh-oh! Findarato is in so-so much TROUBLE. (I have already read the next chapter so this part can be for both the chapters.) POOR-POOR Amarie, her own BETROTHED doesn't even know her BEGETTING DAY. Fiondil, in some future chapter I think you should do something really mean to Finrod as payback for forgetting Amarie's gift. Luckily, Sador to the Rescue!!! *Hip-hip hooray!!!!* So Fiondil will you promise to remember what happened in this chapter? Will you? Hope so... Another thing, I am learning more Elvish here than I ever did searching the net for TWO WEEKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! One other thing , promise to complete the tale? Promise? Swear by Eru, the One, himself in true Tolkien style???????????????????????????? Okay, one last question. So 'WHO' is your favorite character in The Silmarillion? In the Lord of the Rings????????????????????????????????????? Sorry bout the million questions though. I am just naturally curious. Namarie...
Author's reply
As for punishing Finrod for forgetting Amarië's Begetting Day: that remains to be seen and I reserve judgment. As for completing this tale: I have every intention of completing this tale, so don't worry about that. As for my favorite character in the Silmarillion: Finrod. As for my favorite characters in LOTR: Glorfindel and Aragorn. As for my favorite character, period: Námo.
eiluj · 21 June 2007 · Chapter 102: Alassiel and Finrod
Don’t mind me being frustrated -- I love every minute of it. After all, I have to have *something* to grouch and complain about (besides the garden). I just *keep* thinking I ought to be able to figure out where authors are going before they get there; been that way for 30-some years at least; no hope for me. Alassiel turned back to Finrod and then gave Ingil a dubious look which the Maia returned with a faint smile. "Don’t worry child," he said. "I think Lady Melian has volunteered to help you." That, however, did not reassure her. Poor Alassiel. Gotta feel sorry for her. It’s no fun being unhappy -- and I think, when all is said and done, she’s been unhappy for a long time, though perhaps not even aware of it. Also no fun being made to face your faults -- and know you aren’t going to be allowed to escape having to change (though I’m not sure she’s realized that *yet*). It’s an interesting punishment for Alassiel -- and certainly bears the hallmarks of Finrod’s creativity. And I’m wondering about the possibilities for Alassiel-Glorfindel interaction at the tournament, given all that has happened (especially to her)....
Author's reply
Most likely that has been part of Alassiel's problem — her unhappiness. She has not realized she even is unhappy, unhappy about her father being in Mandos, unhappy about her mother fading, unhappy about her grandparents and being unable to do anything to counteract their subtle poisoning of her soul. And now, as you say, she has to face that unhappiness. It isn't easy and I have no doubt she resents being forced to do so, knowing that she's being given no choice about changing. Finrod's punishments are always unique. *grin* As for the possibilities for an Alassiel-Glorfindel interaction at the tournament... we'll have to wait and see, won't we?
Ellie · 20 June 2007 · Chapter 102: Alassiel and Finrod
Finrod is impressive and I like the literary device of returning to the same quote over and over again to make the point. You do show the power of the elves quite well and, well, quite powerfully. They are not folks to be messed with or underestimated - especially the lords and kings as you keep showing us in the three kings of Valinor and Finrod and Glorfindel and even in Laurendil (spelling?). The punishment doled out will work its magic in time, I think, and that chick is rather arrogant to throw the stall mucking back at Finrod as a sort of "been there, done that" kind of thing. Still enjoying this story immensely as I've told you often enough. Keep up the most excellent work!
Author's reply
I am glad that you think that I show the power of the elves so well. Not being one myself, I'm never sure I'm getting it right. Finrod, of course, was probably one of the most powerful elves in Aman, though that power did not come forth until he went to Middle-earth. Few of the elves could have lasted as long as he did against a Maia in a confrontation consisting of Songs of Power the way Finrod did, and he was actually winning before Sauron threw Amarië in his face. Alassiel does have a lot of arrogance to do a "been there, done that" to Finrod, but becoming his squire should disabuse her of many misconceptions about the meaning of "punishment". Thank you for your encouragement and your reviews. They mean a lot to me.
Nariel · 20 June 2007 · Chapter 102: Alassiel and Finrod
Hooooorrrrraaaaayyyyy!!!!! That evil Alassiel is finally getting what she soo deserves. Mucking out Rocco's stables and preparing and serving luncheon! Now that's a lot of work. (Fiondil, you sure are having fun with punishments aren't you?) Sorry, but Alassiel as a squire to Finrod sounds a bit strange... I was as shocked as she was when I found what Finrod's other punishment was. Finrod was so so right when he said he was not nice. The three tasks Alassiel must do just don't sound like enough to wipe out her arrogance AND her offences against poor Vorondil. Fiondil, I just feel that Alassiel NEEDS more tasks to do before she is completely forgiven. *-* I sure do enjoy that you are showing the readers how much Finrod has grown since his release from Mandos. The sad truth is though that he shall never be the same as he was before his death... Thank you also for giving Finrod more chapters! May you please continue for awhile on him please ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! I do have another quetion though, but when you were a kid or know someone who had their horse stolen because you seem to have an affinity to writing about characters stealing a horse? Ex. 1)Glorfindel and Martandur's horse 2)Alassiel and Rocco. <-Still hard for me to believe that Rocco is Quenyan. Oh yeah! Almost forgot, is Glorfindel going to win the tournament because in many movies and books, the main character always wins the big prize? My other one is, why wasn't Finrod sent back to Middle-Earth? Was, IS he not the 'Friend of Men'? Atandil, the Faithful were but a few he had earned serving and helping mortal men in which Tolkien said, "...of whom he was their greatest friend among the Eldar." It was something along those lines though. the idea has been in my mind for awhile though... Please update soon!!! Namarie!
Author's reply
Alassiel isn't so much evil as misguided and hopefully Finrod has the cure for that as we will see in later chapters. And we will see more of Finrod, never fear. I think he's as much a main character as Glorfindel now and this is as much his story as it is that of our favorite Balrgo-slayer. I never owned a horse or had one stolen. I just figured in a society where horses are the major form of transportation, stealing a horse is the equivalent of hot-wiring a car and let's face it car-jacking is way too common in our society. And "rocco" is a perfecly good word in Quenya. The word for "rider" or "knight" is "roquen", just to round out your education. *grin* As for who will win the tournament... you'll have to wait and see. And as for why Finrod wasn't sent back to Middle-earth... you'll have to take that up with the Professor when next you see him. Personally, I suspect it was a toss-up between Finrod and Glorfindel and in the end the Valar decided sending Glorfindel would be a safer bet. *grin*
Hildigrim · 19 June 2007 · Chapter 102: Alassiel and Finrod
Amarie may also find the chaperone arrangement reassuring. Soooo....recollecting the cause of Laurendil's remembered ascent to captaincy in Chapter 81 and Namo's question at the end of Chapter 82, and then juxtaposing them with the events of this chapter, I would raise a question. Is Alassiel's *real* punishment going to be feeling the flat side of Finrod's sword, or will it be her promotion to be the squire of the erstwhile Lord of Nargothrond, Friend of Men, Hewer of Caves, "Wisdom" in the eyes of Beor, and "Mighty Descendant of Finwe"?
Author's reply
Alassiel is truly being punished, unlike Laurendil or Finrod. Their "punishment" by being "promoted" was a recognition of their ability to take control of a situation regardless of the consequences. They were exhibiting their "Power" to those in Authority over them — Finrod over Laurendil and Námo over Finrod. In Alassiel's case, though, she hasn't exhibited any real power over the situation, only spite. So what Finrod decides in her case is pure punishment, though perhaps by making her his squire he is hoping that she will begin to take ownership of her own innate power of command by first learning the necessity of service that is concomittant with that power. And who better to teach her than the erstwhile King of Nargothrond, Friend of Men, Hewer of Caves, Lord Wisdom, Mighty Descendant of Finwë, and... Reborn Prince of Eldamar who just happens to also be her cousin?
Kitty · 19 June 2007 · Chapter 102: Alassiel and Finrod
It’s rather silly of Alassiel to object to Vorondil’s ministrations so strongly. What does she expect – that one of the Valar is doing it?? And I’m surprised she still thinks about escaping from Lórien. She should have learned her lesson by now, but obviously she has not. Vorondil thought of a very fitting punishment, I think. For Alassiel seems to believe herself better than most others, so cleaning up stables should abuse her of this idea. But if she truly thinks to muck out *one* stable and currying *one* horse is so exhausting, I’d gladly offer my own work to her for more practice. I’ve to clean up after three horses two or three times a week, and if she ever had to try to get an Iceland Pony in full winter pelt clean after rolling repeatedly in the mud, Alassiel would come to appreciate Rocco a lot more ;-) Hm, and she’s to be a squire to Finrod at the tournament? Interesting. Truly, I can’t wait for the New Year! Well, it will be interesting anyway to watch Alassiel with Finrod, considering her behaviour and her opinion she didn’t do anything wrong. She certainly has to learn a lot. And I hope she doesn’t attack someone when Finrod is allowing her to take up a sword ;-)
Author's reply
Alassiel isn't thinking straight at this point, so she can be forgiven for her reaction towards Vorondil, and her thoughts of escape. Vorondil, of course, is taking a page from his Master's own book of "Creative Punishments for Thralls, Elflings and Other Recalicrant Underlings", having been on the business end of such punishments himself. *grin* The New Year Tournament should be an intersting time for all....
Kitty · 19 June 2007 · Chapter 101: Alassiel and Vorondil
Glad to know Ingwë shows his encouragement for Glorfindel in this way, even if not everyone knows yet. But Glorfindel knows, and that is the one who matters most. Now you have made me rather curious – I can understand why Finrod got the list, too, but I wonder why he burnt it and about what he talked with Irmó. Had *never* thought to say that, but I like the new Vorondil. He has changed a lot, and his eagerness to get to show what he learned is so cute! And the mess he made showing off to Melian ... *snicker* Hmmm ... Finrod had the same idea as I, concerning the reason why Lirulin faded, I see. I’d not be surprised if Ingoldo and Tinwetariel truly had a hand in this. Maybe Námo or another Vala could find out? Was glad she was able to jest again about her evil twin sister - she truly seems to be better. With Alassiel it seems rather obvious, too, that her grandparents poisoned her thoughts. What she said about Finrod and the Noldor was proof enough, I think. And what did she think, running away like that?? She should know it wouldn’t change anything! Not to mention she did what Glorfindel got banished for to the smith for a time – stealing a horse. And instead of feeling ashamed she’s criticizing the name of the horse *sigh* Have to admit that the name is a bit funny, considering the meaning, but if Vorondil is happy with it and the horse doesn’t object, why not? I was amused to learn this new word – have known a horse named Rocco myself thirty years ago, though I doubt the name was meant as a reference to Tolkien. And even if Alassiel didn’t meant to, it was ... nice ... of her to volunteer to give Vorondil an opportunity to show his newly learned skills *lol* Poetic justice, indeed! Oh, and it was good to see Mithlas again and to know he’s better.
Author's reply
Ingwë and Glorfindel have obviously reconciled even if, as you say, not many people know it. The parties concerned know it and that's all that matters at the moment, whatever anyone else thinks about it all. Vorondil does sort of grow on you, doesn't he? We are seeing him as he should have been before his fëa became twisted the way it did... the (over)eager elfling who just wants to be loved by the adults around him. Alassiel, of course, has also been twisted though it's not as obvious until something trggers the prejudices she has allowed to permeate her thinking. No doubt her grandparents fed her own doubts concerning her father after his death until they began to color her thinking and her response towards any of the Reborn, especially the Noldor, like Glorfindel and Finrod. It must be very hard for her to reconcile her feelings toward the Reborn with her feelings towards her cousin who is a Reborn. Therein lies the conflict within her. Hopefully Finrod will be able to straighten her out. My youngest brother had a stuffed toy that was a frog whose name was, naturally enough, "Fwoggy". I'm sure Vorondil's parents rolled their eyes when he informed them his horse's name was "Horse", but hey... as Finrod says, it's a rather sensible name and easy to remember. *lol* I'm sure many people wondered what had happened to Mithlas, which is why I had him show up in this chapter. We may see more of him in subsequent chapters, though I can't promise anything.
Hildigrim · 18 June 2007 · Chapter 101: Alassiel and Vorondil
"What went on inside the training salles remained there." -- It seems probable that in China you aren't seeing the (tacky) "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" American television advertising campaign to promote Las Vegas tourism. Whether intentional or accidental, the echo made me laugh.
Author's reply
No. I haven't seen American TV for the last year, not even on YouTube. The similarities are completely accidental and the reasons for it far more benign than anything that might occur in Las Vegas. *grin*
Calenlass Greenleaf · 18 June 2007 · Chapter 102: Alassiel and Finrod
*Back away from Finrod* He's beginning to scare me with those words of his. "Like I said before, child, I tend not to take any prisoners." Ominous and foreboding. I now look forward to the tournament with much anticipation...and a bit of anxiety. -Calenlass
Author's reply
Finrod is not the angelic, cutesy ellon some people would like him to be. He is an elf-lord, one of the most powerful in all of Aman and Middle-earth, which makes sense when we remember who his sister is. Here he is showing himself in that mode and both the reader and Alassiel are beginning to see that thinking of Finrod any other way is a mistake. He is a King even if he has no kingdom. This is an elf who challenged Sauron (a Maia... fallen, true, but a Maia nonetheless) to a duel consisting of Songs of Power and he was holding his own until Sauron threw the memory of Amarië at him. Event are beginning to show that Finrod is not to be taken lightly or for granted by anyone.
eiluj · 18 June 2007 · Chapter 101: Alassiel and Vorondil
Oh, this was a very frustrating chapter! Unbeknown to the three kings, the same list was sent to Finrod, who showed it to no one, not even Laurendil. He memorized the names, burned the list, then went in search of Irmo. What the two spoke about, though, no one learned. I’m confused about this list. Are the elves on it the friends and sympathizers of the three hapless ellyn who attacked Glorfindel? (minds read by Manwë & co.) Or has Manwë provided a list of all the Bad Guys in Valinor? I’d assume the former, except that something in the previous batch of chapters made me think the list was supposed to be *all* the Bad Guys -- and I wouldn’t think the hapless three would know *all* the others; I just can’t believe in one single overarching conspiracy. There must be the odd discontented few here and there who don't know anyone else! And why send the list to Finrod? [The three high kings, Finrod -- and presumably all the Valar.] Does this have anything to do with Finrod being (probably) the future lord of Tol E? Or is Finrod himself at threat? Or does this somehow affect the Lóriennildi? Or is it because of Finrod’s position as Fëanturinildo? Hm -- let’s hope there’s no mayhem at the tourney.... But if we know who all the Bad Guys are, and they’re being watched, how could any of them sneak in? So Manwen and Vorondil didn’t see Ingwion at all, except Vorondil the once. Makes me think there are probably a lot of elves floating around Nienna’s manse that Ingwion doesn’t know about. [No, not *literally* floating.] "I went in search of the library, but couldn’t find it again.” -- I know some libraries like that ... never thought to blame it on the Valar, though.... I usually blamed confusing diagonal streets or my -- manifestly excessive -- confidence that I remembered the address of a place I hadn’t been to since a meeting three or four or five years earlier.... "Why do They ... always speak in riddles?” “It’s part of their mystique.” “You and I need to talk.” “About what?” Finrod asked in surprise. “About your other cousin, Ingwion,” Irmo answered. “It’s time to apprise you of certain developments.” Finrod nodded and bowed. “I am at your service, Master.” “Yes, you are,” Irmo said somewhat sardonically and Finrod was left wondering about that. -- Could be Ingwion as Námo’s apprentice. Or could be Ingwion as the Valar’s messenger to Tol Eressëa. Or both. But it rather sounds like Irmo’s about to tell Finrod of some new task Finrod might not be too happy about. Rocco the Horse -- we had neighbors long ago with a cat confusingly named simply “Cat.” When we referred to her (usually re. her beating up one of our cats), we added the owners’ surname because otherwise it was just too weird. I’m also reminded of a friend’s stepson, who at a fairly young age (probably not yet in 2nd grade) named a new kitten after himself; his parents, to save their sanity, gave the cat a nickname. Also her son, who at the age of 10 or so named a D&D character after himself.
Author's reply
Sorry for all the frustration this chapter has generated for you, but I assure you that most, if not all, will be revealed eventually (I do reserve the right to retain some mystery to the story). The list in question has to do with what the would-be assassins know. Granted the list won't have every malcontent in Aman and Tol Eressëa on it, but it will have the major players in this little drama involving Ingoldo and Tinwetariel. Why the list was given also to Finrod will be revealed later. Irmo is no doubt informing Finrod about Ingwion's new status as Námo's apprentice, though whether he reveals the plans of the Valar to make Ingwion their representative to Tol Eressëa is another matter, and other possibilities for Irmo's statement at the end cannot be revealed at this time. Sorry again. When I was trying to come up with a suitable name for a horse in Quenya, I just ended up referring to it as "Rocco" in my drafts. After awhile I decided it was as good a name as any and would make Vorondil's character more interesting and perhaps more endearing to the readers because he named his horse "Horse". *snicker*
Nieriel Raina · 18 June 2007 · Chapter 102: Alassiel and Finrod
Oh dear! That was the second chapter. *cries* It felt like only one! Ok, I'll wait patiently... NiRi
Nieriel Raina · 18 June 2007 · Chapter 102: Alassiel and Finrod
*laughs delightedly* Oh this was a great chapter! I am so enjoying this story. I look forward to every update! It was enlightening for me to see just how soft Alassiel was to find mucking a single stall and currying a single horse hard work! Goodness! Thank God I was never a gentle woman! I used to have 15 stalls cleaned, 10 horses turned out (one by one walking a half mile both ways) and 5 horses groomed by noon, and the other grooms thought I was slow! *grins* I miss those days. I am liking Finrod more and more, and, my dear, I have developed this obsession with Námo! It's a good thing he's already married! I adore him! I think he's quite sexy (if a Vala CAN be sexy) *snorts* I'm off to the next chapter now. I should be in bed! NiRi
Author's reply
I am glad you are enjoying this story and that you are liking Finrod more and more. And an obsession with Námo! Wait until he shows up for the tournament. You'll see just how "sexy" a Vala can be. At any rate, Alassiel is getting off easy with regards to her "chores", though she doesn't realize it. Finrod is really trying to be gentle with her knowing that she's not used to this sort of thing, but he is determined to rid her of her arrogance, which is tainted by Ingoldo and Tinwetariel's spite. It won't be easy but is is doable and hopefully not too late.
Nieriel Raina · 17 June 2007 · Chapter 101: Alassiel and Vorondil
*snickers* It's here Fiondil! Fiondil leaned over and ruffled the ellon’s still short hair. "I’m glad you had a good time, child, but I’m also happy you’re back. *goes back to reading* NiRi
Author's reply
Thanks. I already found it and made the corrections. Can't believe I missed. I guess I'm identifying with Finrod too much. *grin*
MithLuin · 17 June 2007 · Chapter 101: Alassiel and Vorondil
Very interesting. So Finrod doesn't know about Ingwion yet...even though they are both Námo's apprentices. Interesting. *Psst* You call "Finrod" by the name of "Fiondil" once in here. I was amused, but thought you might want to fix it.
Author's reply
Thanks for telling me about the typo. For some reason I kept typing "Fiondil" throughout this chapter and had to go back to correct it. I thought I had found them all, but obviously not... must be a Freudian thing or something. *grin* I'm sure it's a case of "a need to know" between the various apprentices and now Irmo and Námo have decided that Finrod needs to know.
Nariel · 17 June 2007 · Chapter 97: Fallout
I realize my reviews are REALLY out of order, but hey at least I am reveiwing. The part where Alassiel slaps Vorondil was unjust. How could she? That, that...I don't think what I want to say about her is allowed on the net. It might even be worse than the word Finrod had used for the Eldar who were onceborn before he was allowed to use Glorfindel's word. Finrod did very well in slapping her back, but it still is hard for me to see kind, angelic, handsome Finrod slap an elven maiden even if she deserved it. Namarie!
Author's reply
I suppose you could consider Finrod's slap that he give Alassiel as a judicial slap. He's acting as King of Nargothrond rather than as her cousin, and that's a role Alassiel is not used to seeing. Alassiel is, by nature, normally kindhearted and generous but she has been tainted by her grandparents' hatred and poison and it's beginning to manifest itself, thus the attack on Vorondil. Hopefully Finrod will be able to straighten her out before it's too late. And Finrod is not angelic... not even close... but he is a king and that's the best we can hope for from him.
Nariel · 17 June 2007 · Chapter 101: Alassiel and Vorondil
Thanks for the reviews! I wonder what Fnrod and Lord Irmo spoke of...Does it have anything to do with the New Year? The first time when Vorondil came into the story, he honestly was a brat! I enjoy reading about his transformation to a good little FINROD. OOPS!! I meant ANGEL... When i picture Vorondil, i see an adorable, cute elfling. *AAAWWW* In the recent chapters so far the interraction between Finrod and Vorondil is like that between a father and a son. It is just so sweet!!! Fiondil, you have addded a great amount of mystery to the story. It is very suspenseful. Another thing is what exactly were Namo and Ingwion speaking of? Does it have to do with the prejudices the Calaquendi that stayed in Aman have against the Moriquendi and the Reborn? This story sure can relate to what's happening presently. Alassiel, that mean elleth deserved what she got definitely! ^-^ Especially now that Vorondil is making the thing(forgat the word) that is to help heal her wounds when she stole his horse 'Rocco.' The name 'Rocco' came as a shock. it does not sound Valinorean in any way what so ever. I raised my eyebrows and had to reread that passage twice to make sure i was not seeing things. Sorry, but i do have to agree with Alassiel on that one no matter how much I detest her. Congrats that Mithlas has been healed! I wonder what Irmo means in his words at the end with " 'Yes, you are.'" Namarie!
Author's reply
The relationship between Finrod and Vorondil is indeed closer to "father and son" than "master and slave", although I think Finrod sees it more as "older brother and younger sibling". The elves of Aman do not, of course, speak Valarin, though they have adopted and adapted a few words from the language of the Valar. They do, however, speak Quenya, and "rocco" is the Quenya word for "horse" (it's Sindarin equivalent is "roch"). Sorry, but if you have objections to the word, you'll have to take it up with the Professor... he's the one who invented it. *grin* As for the mystery in which this story is imbued... that will have to remain unexplained, or it wouldn't be a mystery, would it?