Kitty
· 11 May 2007
· Chapter 88: The Worth of Butterflies
I’m glad Arafinwë was there for Sador, understanding and comforting him. It’s no wonder the poor elf has nightmares after all he went through.
And considering who his parents are and how they meet, it was a nice idea to give him something from Galadriel. Though the repercussions were not so nice. Poor elfling *sigh* I wanted so badly to hug him when he ran away and hope so much he is soon reunited with his family and particularly Ninniach. It may be that he first needs to come to understand his own worth, but still, it is so understandable that he wants to know he saved her. Well, at least it got him the honour of dancing with a Valië.
Author's reply
As Vána tells Arafinwë, Sador doesn't so much want to know if Ninniach is alive or not as much as he wants to know if what he did was simply a choice he made and not the endpoint of his existence. He wants assurance that his new life has a purpose. He's young enough that he hasn't quite worked it out that if he had had no other meaning in Eru's eyes than to die so his sister could live, he would not have been released from Mandos, as there wouldn't have been any point doing so. Hopefully, with Vána's help he has begun to realize that what happened at the Havens was merely one step along the way and not the endpoint of his existence.
eiluj
· 10 May 2007
· Chapter 90: After the Ceremony
Very satisfying to see Sador doing so well. I like his new friends, though we don’t see much of them here.
I believe we haven’t yet seen Tulkas’s wife Nessa? Or am I forgetting?
I have been re-reading bits of Nilmandra’s “History Lessons,” so have just been reminded that there’s a White Tree on Tol Eressëa as well as the one in Tirion. So I am adding that to my list of things that may pop up in your story.
Author's reply
You're right about Nessa. She and Tulkas will actually make an appearance in the next chapter and Vairë will reappear later on. She only makes a cameo appearance in Chapter 17, "An Elleth Scorned", so I felt it only fair that she be given more "air" time. With Nessa, all of the Valar will have been featured in some way in this story.
We may see more of Sador's friends in subsequent chapters but I can't really say for sure. It depends on what else is going on in the meantime.
And of course there's another White Tree on Númenor at this time as well from which Isildur will steal a seed before Sauron and Ar-Pharazon destroy it and a descendant from *that* tree will eventually be found by Aragorn and brought to Minas Tirith as a sign that he will establish an new dynasty with Arwen. It's all connected, you know.
eiluj
· 10 May 2007
· Chapter 89: A Ceremony Revised
Hm -- a royal visit to Tol Eressëa. I think I don’t blame Sador for worrying. Then again, I suppose what will inevitably be seen as Arafinwë's arrogance will be forgiven because of Finrod's and Glorfindel's presence.
"Perhaps we can incorporate your traditions with ours, yonya," the King finally said. "I think it would be a good idea for my people to be reminded of what happened in Endórë and how those events have impacted on their lives, little though they realize it." -- A good idea to remind the Amaneldi.
Author's reply
the Amaneldi for the most part do not fully comprehend how much what happened in Beleriand and even what is happening now in Middle-earth during the Second Age impacts on their lives. They are in many ways like the hobbits of the Shire who are so insular and smug in their insularity that they don't realize what sacrifices have been made by others just so they could maintain their smug insularity. Incorporating traditions from Middle-earth, and having the the Kings of Aman visit the Tol Eressëans are ways of breakng through that insularity.
Whether the Tol Eressëans would see Arafinwë and Olwë's royal progress as arrogant remains to be seen.
eiluj
· 10 May 2007
· Chapter 88: The Worth of Butterflies
“... what a strain it is, thinking in a language that isn’t my own." -- We used to call those stress headaches “Spanish-speaking headaches” because we had them on days when staffing was weird and we non-native-speakers were operating well beyond our language ability....
I loved Sador’s reaction to learning he’d been given something that had belonged to Galadriel.
Wondering at what point Vana’s chair disappeared, and if anyone was watching it at the time....
"Now you understand why he cannot know what her fate ultimately was, at least not yet." -- Interesting. And an awful lot of things for the Valar to keep track of.
Author's reply
I remember spending about 10 days in France with a friend. She didn't speak French, but she understood it; I spoke it (sort of) and between us we managed to get along. We then took an overnight ferry to England from Cherbourg to Portsmouth. As soon as we stepped aboard the ferry and heard the Queen's English being spoken by the crew it was as if ten years had been lifted from us. I could actually feel my shoulders lightening and straightening up. So I can sympathize with Sador completely on that score.
Hildigrim
· 10 May 2007
· Chapter 89: A Ceremony Revised
To begin on a less serious note, it seems that Arafinwe -- reputedly "the wisest of heart" of the sons of Finwe -- arguably exhibits his wisdom in meekly accepting Earwen's punishments. My attention was riveted just reading about them, so I can understand his heart racing when she whispered in his ear!
I wonder if Namo's absence from the ceremony was less about his intimidating effect and more connected to the important distinction between recurring cyclic processes (seasons, day/night, and darkness dominance/light dominance among the created) and the relative (if not absolute) singularity of the birth/re-birth transition with which he is so closely involved?
If "abide in" is construed as "persist faithfully in", Manwe's benediction ("Hope remains, Children of Ilúvatar, if we abide in Eru’s love") is interesting in its linkage of the full triad of hope, faith, and love in a simple sentence. This is a very nice conclusion to the chapter.
Author's reply
I'm sure Eärwen was a very patient teacher and Arafinwë an apt pupil and obviously this is a game they enjoy playing every once in a while. Just goes to show you're never really too old for that sort of thing, unless you want to be.
Námo's absence is due more to the fact that he was at his sister Nienna's house on the same evening accepting Ingwion's oath as his apprentice and less for the reasons you've given, which, while intriguing, are somewhat esoteric. Sometimes I think we read more into something than necessary, quite forgetting Occam's Razor: the simplest explanation is often the truth. While Námo could conceivably have been to Tirion and back in the space of a thought, his attention was focused on Ingwion (see chapter 87, "The Servant-Prince's Oath") and remained with him through the night.
Your analysis of Manwë's benediction, on the other hand, is quite beautiful and I confess that when I wrote it I did not consciously link the Vala's words with the Three Holy Virtues, but I knew that I wanted to use the phrase "abide in" and nothing else seemed fitting enough. I'm glad you pointed out that "abide in" means more than just "live in" or "settle in", but really has the connotation of "persistently remaining in" or, as you put it "persist faithfully in". Thank you for your review. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter.
Calenlass Greenleaf
· 10 May 2007
· Chapter 90: After the Ceremony
Sador is fast becoming a favorite OC. :) I truly wish he were canon.
~Calenlass
Author's reply
So do I. *grin* But at least I get to play with him to my heart's content, since he's my OC. *sticks out tongue*
MithLuin
· 9 May 2007
· Chapter 88: The Worth of Butterflies
So happy to see new chapters from you! You are such a faithful updater :) It was nice to see Vana here. You've captured her well - she's a Valië, so not to be trifled with, but at the same time much "younger" and more light-hearted than her big sister ;).
Author's reply
With Vana, I have introduced all fourteen of the Valar and Valier, although in an upcoming chapter I Vairë makes an appearance that is more than a cameo, as she was in the chapter where Amarië is in the Past with Námo.
She is indeed "younger" and more light-hearted than Yavanna, but she is still a Valië and not to be dismissed. She also has her own "take" on things that is rather unique. I'm glad you think I captured her well. It's very difficult to give some of the Valar justice when so little is known about them personality-wise.
MithLuin
· 9 May 2007
· Chapter 89: A Ceremony Revised
Oooh, Finrod is going to be in trouble when he admits to having no idea that Sador made the gift from Amarië. It is going to be very interesting when those two meet again - she will barely recognize the King of Nargothrond who has re-emerged.
Author's reply
I'm sure Sador will clue him in in advance so as not to get his gwador in trouble with his fianceé. *grin* It will be interesting indeed to see how Amarië reacts to the King of Nargothrond, rather than the 'Prince' of Eldamar she remmbers from before.
MithLuin
· 9 May 2007
· Chapter 90: After the Ceremony
Sador has been the "youngest" of the three, being still underage when he died, and spending the least time in Mandos. But here it seems he is finally growing up. I suppose he has experienced a lot, and that will aid wisdom. It will be interesting to see how Finrod and Glorfindel react to this "new" more mature Sador. I am glad to see he has friends in Arafinwë's court, though - otherwise, he'd be a bit lonely.
Author's reply
I'm sure Finrod and Glorfindel will rejoice to see their younger "brother" growing up and taking on the responsibilities that he has. The three of them practically form a triumvirate and each contributes something to the mix. And Sador is one of those people who tends to make friends easily, so there's no fear of him ever being lonely.
Rhyselle
· 7 May 2007
· Chapter 67: Return to Tirion
Boy, it seems like Real Life doesn't want me writing reviews! Finally was able to come back and re-read this chapter.
I love how Laurendil took charge of things, and I loved his reassurance and then his teasing of Sador about the one-braid look and starting a new fashion among warriors. *grin* It seems that he, too, has sort of taken Sador on as a "younger brother". Sador's choice to just let the shortened hair be neatly trimmed is a great description of his inborn practicality.
I'm so glad that Sador didn't have to choose between his anamme and his adopted family. I do hope that as time goes on, his family grows--by their release from Mandos or their coming to Valinor from Middle Earth or where ever they are currently living.
I thought the description of Arafinwe and Olwe "in all their terrble splendour" was stunning. Without detailed descriptions of robes and jewels, I can still envision their power and majesty as they are doing what I still consider one of the most important jobs of a king: determining justice. I'm certain that there might be some of the conspirator's supporters who might grumble about "conflict of interest" in the case of Sador's attackers and abductors being judged by his foster father, but who else truly would be in a position of enough authority to judge and sentence in this case (outside of the Valar) but Arafinwe and Olwe?
I like the continued layering of the whole issue of the Reborn throughout the tale so far. Even the most trivial thing seems to come back to the hows and whys that specific elves are released from Mandos and not others, and the feelings of the once-born about that.
The issue of the higher prices intended to foment discontent on Tol Eressea in the hopes that it would lead to rebellion is, hopefully, going to be resolved once the citizens of the Lonely Isle learn that the inflation of prices for items from the mainland was not something decreed by the Amaneldi. I guess it will depend on how information is communicated and by whom.
Boy, a lot of people certainly need to be re-educated about a lot of things.
The idea of a rebellion and possible kinslaying is a frightening one--I sincerely hope that it does not occur...
The revelation that even Finrod was afraid of what the reaction of his own family would be was interesting. I would like to think that eventually, Haldir's family will repent of their attitude towards their Reborn, and welcome him back into full familial relations... but even if they were to, I'm sure that Wilwarin would have a lot to say to them about how they treated her husband!
Ah, Arafinwe is going to Valmar! Lots of major players coming together in one place... looks like things are going to escalate again!
Good chapter, even if there wasn't a lot of physical action in it, a lot of loose ends got tied up, and the ones still dangling are fascinating and make me eager to charge forward through the upcoming chapters!
I'm glad you are safely back from vacation! Hope you had a lovely time!
Author's reply
This is one of those transitional, wrap-up loose ends, type of chapter that still moves the plot along and gives hints of other subplots developing.
We see Sador maturing through his recent ordeal. I think earlier, the loss of the braid would have been more devestating for him, after he had gone through the ceremony of obtaining it. Laurendil's teasing was just the right note to keep things in persepective for Sador.
I often forego detail descriptions of things to allow each reader to fill in the blanks as to what "terrible splendour" means to them. Everyone has their own image of kings and rulers and this gives them the freedom to relate to the characters in their own way. Certainly, having just one king sit in judgment would be daunting enough, never mind two, especially when these kings are the epitome of what kingship is all about. The effect would be different, say, if they were mere puppet rulers.
I'm sure many of the Reborn, especially among the Noldor, fear the reception they might receive from family and friends whom they deserted so long before. The Reborn have been cleansed of their "sins" and have been forgiven, but as we see, that doesn't mean that the elves of Aman have moved past their own hurt and anger to welcome their prodigals back.
Edlyn
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 32: In the High King's Garden
Oh, I DO like Ingwë in this chapter!
"Because, deep down they’re like elflings poking a stick into an ant hill just to see the ants scurry around. Give them a reason to see you scurry even more and they will take it with all the manic glee of a twelve year old." Oh, I was falling out of my chair laughing at this line, meldonya! I can even hear the tone of voice that Ingwë says it in. And see Olórin's face as well. This was absolutely priceless!
Glorfindel is certainly rather fragile in the beginning of this chapter. Well, he is rather fragile all time time right now because of where he is in his development but right now he's not capable of hiding it or his hurt.
Ingwë and Olórin's little running commentary regarding being incorrigible was very funny and was exactly the kind of thing to bring Glorfindel's spirits up. I loved the mendacious "Blatant, no," from the high King and can just see his expression. I really like that about hte way you write, meldonya, I feel like I'm really there, participating in the scene, not just a fly on the wall.
I shivered with delight and awe right along with Glorfindel when Lord Manwë showed up. I keep wondering if I'd ever be able to handle being in the presence of the Powers with equanimity that Ingwë does. I seriously doubt it. My response would more than likely be the same as our balrog-slayer's.
Oh, when you described the garden I was reminded of the many beautiful gardens I visted in England when I lived there. Kew Gardens of course, and the gardens at Sudeley Castle, and Blenheim Palace come to mind as well as Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania that I visited many times as a young girl (it was the water lilies, meldonya. I adore the water lily garden at Longwood and probably would have spenthte whole day there if I could). Gardens are such healing places aren't they? There are at least three wonderful gardens open to the public within a thirty minute drive of my home and I lvoe to spend time there. Unfortunately, I can only enjoy looking at them because I have the opposite of a green thumb (I even killed an air fern, if you can imagine it). Another reason I feel very close ot Glrofindel, I think!
Was there a particular plant you had in mind when you described the one Glorfindel was looking at when Alassiel appeared on the scene?
I like Alassiel very much. It's obvious she's rather young herself given her petulance, her doubt, her embarrassment, her willingness to start over, and even her unfeigned delight at finding out Glorfindel is a Reborn. It's obvious that Tinwetariel has been busy feeding Alassiel her bigotry but aso obvious (to me at least) that it isn't terribly ingrained in the elleth.
Well, the fact that none of the Vanyar have left Mandos as of yet would certainly cause resentment in certain quarters (but in my opinion should not result in hatred of the the exilic Noldor who have been Reborn).
It will be interesting to see if Glorfindel and Alassiel do manage to become friends. I'm looking forward to the next chapter.
May you live blessed,
Edlyn
Author's reply
You can probably just imagine Olórin trying desperately not to laugh at Ingwë's description of the Valar, not wanting to spoil the mood. Ingwë, of course, has had LOTS of practice dealing with the Valar (or should I say "handling" them? *grin*), so he's able to take their presence with greater equanimity than most.
I based the High King's garden partly on the El Generalife, the moorish garden next to the Alhambra in Granada, Spain. I spent a lovely afternoon there and its beauty was such that I think I measure all other gardens against it. I've been to Kew Gardens and several other gardens in England and on the Continent. Gardens and Cloisters.... to me they both symbolize healing, and a link to the Divine that I have never felt anywhere else.
Most of the reviewers seem not to like Alassiel right off, but she does grow on you as you will see in subsequent chapters. Unlike her grandmother, Alassiel is willing to learn from her mistakes and misconceptions, which is probably her one saving grace.
Author Reply: >> Was there a particular plant you had in mind when you described the one Glorfindel was looking at when Alassiel appeared on the scene?
Not really, as I'm not a botanist, but I've always found myself attracted to flowers that have deep shades of purple to them, such as the "black" tulip, except this particular species of flower has a scent which tulips do not.
Edlyn
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 31: Glorfindel Among the Vanyar
Oh, dear.
I have to say my initial response to this chapter was precisely that. You warned me that things would be tough for Glorfindel and it's starting already.
First of all, there is nothing more miserable than being stuck traveling with people who detest you (I find myself remembering a trip back when I was in marching band and I and five other band members got stuck riding in the bus that carried the football team...not fun).
Glorfindel's expression on seeing Taniquetil must have been similar to mine the first time I saw the Rocky Mountains after driving through the Great Plains. I'd been in and over and through the Smokies and Allegheny mountains but they were nothing compared to the Rockies. I just couldn't comprehend the size and beauty of the mass of stone rising before me (It's a very good thing that someone else was driving!).
Can I do something to Tinwetariel? I promise I won't hurt her--much. She just makes my blood boil with the way she is treating Glorfindel. My best friend says I have an overdeveloped crusader gene that goes into overdrive when people I care about are hurt or beliittled. Well, it says much for how much I love your characterization of Glorfindel because I am ready to jump in front of him and give that horrible elleth what-for. Honestly, when I read the way she slighted him I felt like I did when a newly promoted staff sergeant totally destroyed the confidence of one of my trainees (that incident ended with her being demoted and me with a broken wrist for punching a wall instead of strangling her. I still fear I haven't forgiven her for what she did. You can say anythign you want to me or about me, you can hurt me and it's not a problem but don't you DARE hurt my "cubs"!).
Oh, Glorfindel, Glorfindel... That was really rude. Not quite as rude as Tinwetariel was, but rude nonetheless. Sigh. If anyone needed proof that you aren't grown up yet...
Glorfindel's greeting of Olórin made me smile. I can just see him running into the Maia's arms for a hug.
"Me?" I can just hear the uneasy tone of that word. And seeing that note, I can just hear him silently wishing it would vanish because he KNEW he was in trouble. I'm betting if the note had been sealed he would have eithre fainted dead away or bolted for the doors... the words in the note gave me shivers, actually. Oh, I don't want Lord Námo irked with me, I really don't!
Isn't it interesting that so many of the polite things we are taught to say, really aren't the truth of how we feel? Like answering, "I'm fine, thank you" to the query of "How are you?" when you really would rather be tucked up in warm blankets and dosed with painkiller because you have a migraine starting...
I think I'm going to like Ingwë as much as I like Arafinwë. And maybe I won't have to do anything to Tinwetariel, as it looks like the High King is going to let her know that he isn't-very-pleased with her (will I be forgiven for rubbing my hands together in glee at the thought?). Of course, it's obvious Tinwetariel is going to blame Glorfindel for everything...
Excellent chapter, meldonya!
May you live blessed,
Edlyn
P.S. I just got volumes 1 through 46 of the Elvish Linguistic Fellowship's journal Tengwar Vinyar in yesterday's mail. Can you guess what I'm going to be doing this weekend?
Author's reply
Yes, Glorfindel is definitely having a bad hair day this time, between Tinwetariel's snub and his feelings of hurt because Atar Arafinwë has sent him to this place where he doesn't want to be, so it's no wonder he finally takes off the gloves and gets down and dirty, even though Ingwë actually treats him with respect from the very beginning. Poor ellon. And then to have Lord Námo scold him the way he does....
The scene with Olórin holding out the note to Glorfindel and saying that it helps if you actually take it reminded me of the scene in one of the Harry Potter books where Ron receives a screaming letter from his mum and really doesn't want to open it but has no choice because not opening it and getting it out of the way just makes things worse. *grin* In fact, I rather had that scene in my mind when I wrote this part.
I have the later volumes of VT (you switched the name), I think from volume 39 up, but none of the earlier ones. Maybe someday.... Happy reading!
MithLuin
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 87: The Servant-Prince's Oath
Hmmm, Ingwion took to this Oath a little more easily than the others have. I wonder why? Or has it just not hit him yet? I know he doesn't like it, but he's fairly accepting.
The idea of Námo having an apprentice foisted on him is almost as shocking as him losing a bet! Hehe, I suppose the Doomsman of the Valar is seldom mistaken, though of course the Children of Ilúvatar can always be surprising. I forgot to mention it earlier, but I was amused for find out that when he 'loses' it's usually on purpose ;).
Author's reply
Ingwion is older by far than the others, even older than Finrod, at least chronologically if not in experience, so he may not be effected by his Oathtaking as the others were, though that doesn't mean he does not or will not suffer any effects. It just might take longer to sink in.
When you can see further into Eä's history than any of your fellow Valar, you do have a distinct advantage, so losing on purpose keeps the betting in the realm of "fun" for them all. Whether the other Valar realize the Námo sometimes loses on purpose or not is another matter.
MithLuin
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 86: Losing a Bet, Gaining an Apprentice
Now I know this is a cloister - because it has a dusty library! Hehe, I've actually spent a week dusting off the books in the library of a Carmelite convent. The people there had some of the...insightfulness and wisdom that Nienna is willing to share. They were very good at listening, being much more... attuned... to people than I am accustomed to.
Author's reply
I'm glad that the Valar's wisdom and insightfulness rubbed off on some humans in our time. *grin* People who are not distracted by the outer world learn to listen more attentively, to being more mindful of the present moment (as the Jedi would say, not to mention Zen masters).
MithLuin
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 85: The Joy of Serving
I'm curious about this mysterious project...but I'm sure we'll find out later. If Olwë's involved, and the Valar....I can't help thinking it has something to do with Tol Eressea.
Author's reply
It took me a while to find out just what this mysterious project was too, and I still don't know all the details. The Valar insist on keeping some things close to their chests. *sigh* But I do know that it does indeed have something to do with Tol Eressëa.
MithLuin
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 83: On the Shore of an Endless Sea
Nienna runs a convent *grin* I suppose it makes sense - she is unmarried, after all. But as soon as he entered the courtyard, I thought "cloister," and all the business about being free to do what he wishes as long as he has someone let him out and he comes when he's called...that's very...well, institutionalized, I suppose, but very much like religious life, where you need *permission* to do everything. At any rate, it's very different from palace life, so poor Ingwion has a bit of adjusting to do!
Author's reply
I love cloisters and so when I began describing Nienna's "house" I decided it had to have a cloister in it. There does seem to be a "religious" feel to it, though that was not my intent. Still, Ingwion is experiencing what it means to be "under orders" perhaps for the first time in his long life and it is a great adjustment for him.
eiluj
· 3 May 2007
· Chapter 87: The Servant-Prince's Oath
"Yet you wear his sister’s emblem, which is the first step in being Námo’s apprentice" -- Okay, I’m confused: why not Námo’s own emblem? True, aside from the Fëanturinildi, he doesn’t seem to have elves helping him (then again, Nienna doesn’t seem to, either -- at least at the moment).
"I will try my best to be obedient to Lord Námo’s word, Lord," Ingwion said. Ulmo laughed. "But I hope not too obedient." When Ingwion gave him a quizzical look the Vala just laughed louder. "Child, I sincerely hope you make my brother’s life miserable. He’s getting much too complacent and needs a little shaking up and I think you’re just the elf to do it, too."
Interesting insights into the Valar’s culture.
The front of the tunic was stiff with silver thread embroidery showing Telperion in full bloom with the moon above it. -- Hm. Telperion and the moon together. Interesting.
Author's reply
The whys and wherefores of apprenticeship with the Valar are probably too convoluted to go into right now. Námo has never had any apprentice exclusively, though he's shared apprentices with Irmo (the Fëanturinildi). Nienna probably has had some in the past as well. They tend to also be Lóriennildi or Estenduri. Learning Pity from Nienna is probably part of the apprenticing of Irmo and Estë's people. I suspect that when Námo got cornered into taking Ingwion as his apprentice, he agreed on the stipulation that Ingwion start out with Nienna first, which is why he was sent there, though that's not the reason given initially. Also, just as the Fëanturinildi are "hidden" from the other elves, Námo may have decided that Ingwion would be safer if no one knew of his apprenticeship to him, thus the subterfuge of sending him to Nienna first.
I hope in future chapters (and perhaps even in future stories) explore further the Valar's culture, which is mostly unknown to the elves.
eiluj
· 3 May 2007
· Chapter 86: Losing a Bet, Gaining an Apprentice
I’m curious as to what was in that library, if no one seems to use it. [And, of course, as a librarian (well -- retired), I have to be appalled at the idea of a neglected library; really, when all is said and done, I seem to have spent most of 32 years shifting collections around in one building or another, and if I rarely scrubbed floors, I certainly scrubbed enough filthy shelves....]
Aha! Emissary to Tol Eressëa. The plot thickens.
And someone will be governing Tol Eressëa. The obvious one for that job would seem to be Finrod.
That Tiutalion is quite a memorable character; I hope we will see more of him.
Author's reply
I have a feeling that library was there for the sole purpose of giving Ingwion something to do, though I'm sure once Ingwion has finished fixing it up it will be put to good use.
I'm glad you think Tiutalion is such a memorable character. I'm rather fond of him myself. I'm sure we'll be seeing more of him in future chapters (or maybe even in future stories).
Kitty
· 3 May 2007
· Chapter 87: The Servant-Prince's Oath
It seems Ingwion is finally coming to terms with the whole matter and finding his peace again, as far as one can be at peace with the perspective of this particular apprenticeship in mind.
"Child, I sincerely hope you make my brother’s life miserable. He’s getting much too complacent and needs a little shaking up and I think you’re just the elf to do it, too." Well, I doubt Ingwion needs much encouragement in this regard *lol* The way he told the Valar in his room off ...
Is it very bad of me to have been enjoying Námo shouting at Manwë and Aulë on Ingwion’s behalf? Though this capacity of the ring is interesting and will come in handy, I suppose. Not to mention it is foreshadowing future chapters ...
Author's reply
I have no fear that Ingwion will settle in quite nicely as the apprentice-from-hell, and for all his protestations to the contrary, I think Námo is looking forward to the challenge. *lol* The two of them will be good for one another in the long run. I don't think badly of you for enjoying Námo shouting at Manwë and Aulë... I rather enjoyed the show myself. *grin*
Kitty
· 3 May 2007
· Chapter 86: Losing a Bet, Gaining an Apprentice
Nienna’s explanation made sense. I think I understand it very well – it is partly similar to the situation at my work. In addition to my main work, I’m working in another department for some hours a week, so I have more than one superior. With the one for the latter work, I can argue and even disagree on occasion, and we talk it through to find a solution and are going along very well (and the work as well). But with my main superiors (two sharing a job) it is not going very well – particularly the one thinks she knows everything, but is incompetence personified. This one is not able to accept one of us could know more about what she’s doing every day than she herself who has no idea at all, but expects us to accept her superiority without question. Of course it is not exactly the same way around as with Ingwion and Námo, but I can see so well why working together on an equal basis is going so much better.
Anyway, Ingwion has to be rather refreshing to the Valar, not always bowing and defering to them, but very intent on his own opinion.
Ingwion is rather slow in understanding and accepting the problem, but I suppose now he begins to see. And I believe he is seeing going as emissary to Tol Eressëa as a more appropriate work than scrubbing floors. Interesting chapter.
Um ... could I please borrow Ingwion and Námo? My dishwasher just today decided to die, and washing dishes isn’t my favourite work.
Author's reply
Many people in authority could probably take Nienna's lesson to heart. Too many times I've come across people who expect others to bow and scrape before them, not realizing that they aren't so much exercising authority as condoning slavery. I would much rather have someone spit in my face and tell me where I can get off than to have them "yessir, nossir" me all day long. With the former, I at least know where I stand with them; the other sort probably have a knife hidden away ready to do me in as soon as my back is turned.
Ingwion is at least trying, even though he's going at it the wrong way, so you have to give him credit for that much. I think that once he gets over the shock he'll find that being Námo's apprentice won't be as bad as he thinks it might be.
As for borrowing Námo to do your dishes for you... sorry, get your own Vala, this one is taken. *lol*
Kitty
· 3 May 2007
· Chapter 85: The Joy of Serving
Oh Valar, Fiondil, I should probably feel sorry for Ingwion, but instead I’ve laughed myself silly! Námo and his bets! I’m not entirely sure how much of all this was only acting and how much true, but it was so much fun! Potatoes in inappropriate shapes *snicker*
If this accident with the soup had happened to*me*, I’d probably died from embarassment just there and then! Poor Ingwion, it is terribly when a courtesy is leading to something like that. But it seems to run in the family *grin*
Uh, Námo’s apprentice? It’s difficult to imagine what that includes. Not very nice of Námo to shock Ingwion like that after all the poor elf has gone through this day.
Author's reply
The Valar don't lie, though they might not tell the entire truth, however, in this case, everything Námo says to Ingwion is true, inappropriately shaped potatoes and all. *grin* Ingwion needed something like this to happen to shock him out of his self-image of the always-in-control-haryon-to-the-High-Kingship elf that he sees himself as being. Hopefully the entire experience will make him a more "humane" person in his dealings with others. As Námo pointed out, Ingwion's initial reaction to Glorfindel had been one of arrogance rather than sympathy.
Kitty
· 3 May 2007
· Chapter 84: Obedience is a Verb
Oh, you’re back already? Now I have to hurry with the remaining reviews, or you’ll soon have doubled the number of chapters I don’t have reviewed yet ;-)
"Can I help it if I like food?" You should introduce Ingwion to Frodo and Sam when they are on Tol Eressëa. They would get along very well ;-)
Am sympathising with Ingwion – I fear I would feel the same way as he, even if it may be irrational when one thinks things through or in hindsight. And to be related to Fëanor must have been quite a shock for him.
But it is not fair to blame Glorfindel for his problems. It may have started with Glorfindel’s disappearance, but Glorfindel had nothing to do with what Ingwion did. I can only hope that was only a silly thought in the first anger and vanished after his talk with Námo and Ulmo.
Author's reply
Ingwion is probably feeling too many things at once to know which way is up anymore. He, of course, is not actually related to Fëanor except through Arafinwë, although a Hobbit would probably be able to figure out the exact relationship with no problem, but certainly to be compared to Fëanor would be shocking to him. Usually, when we are called on the carpet for something we've done we start out in denial by trying to pin the blame on someone else. Ingwion recognizes that Glorfindel's presence in hi8 life has been the catalyst for the changes within him, but he is not to be blamed for what Ingwion ultimately decides to do with those changes. It's easier to blame another than to own up to our own failings (although I doubt the Valar see this as a failing and are rejoicing that Ingwion is taking the first faltering steps towards a truer and more mature relationship with the Valar in his act of defiance).
Edlyn
· 2 May 2007
· Chapter 30: Departures
Poor Glorfindel! It's obvious that he's feeling abandoned and insecure. I would expect that he's uneasy about being parted from his "big brother" as well as feeling somewhat useless. Perhaps some of his complaint that "everyone" has a mission but him is wounded pride but there's probably some fear there as well--fear that he's not capable of being trusted or that he's not competent enough to fulfill a mission like Sador. And there's the uncomfortableness of feeling like Sador is behaving/acting outside the role of "little brother" that Glorfindel's mind has placed him in to deal with as well. Our balrog-slayer is likely feeling that the underpinnings of his world are being shifted and he's young enough emotionally right now to not like it one bit.
I suspect that Lord Namo probably had a short word with Glorfindel that led to that "I-I’m sorry. I’ll be good." because of his physical reaction. I don't think he'd go pale like that just because Finrod said what he said.
His reaction to the news that Finrod would be staying in Lorien is also proof of how young he still is in his new life. Children tend to generalize from a single example and that's certainly what Glorfindel's doing. I'm glad that Arafinwë (even if he doesn't really undertand why Glorfindel is so upset) realizes that Glorfindel is in need of serious comfort.
"Laurendil might think so," Oh, that made me laugh out loud.
Oh, Tinwetariel made my skin crawl from the moment she opened her condescending mouth! I can't believe how horribly rude she was. Of course, Glorfindel erally shouldn't have been rude back but I can't blame him one bit for his response. Hmmmm, does Glorfindel actually remember who his parents are? Intellectually if not emotionally?
Oh, I'm so proud of Glorfindel for not losing control. His response to Tinwetariel's "Did you learn nothing while in the Halls of Waiting, child?" was exactly the right thing to say, and also reminded him that regardless of what any Eldar says he is forgiven and loved beyond measure.
Those surprised murmurs and reactions whenever Eärendil is mentioned must be driving Glorfindel crazy even if he's not in a state of mind ot think about it at this moment.
Rudeness is one thing but Tinwetariel's bigotry is absolutely appalling! I wonder if her attitutude towards the Reborn would be the same even if any of the Vanyar had been released from Mandos. She seems the sort of individual who will always find some segment of the population to sneer at and treat as though they are second class citizens.
I don't blame Glorfindel for being so upset by the way he's being treated by the delegation or for not wanting to go to Vanyamar but by refusing to talk to Arafinwë and not saying goodbye really wasn't a very good thing for them or him. But he's hurt and upset and feeling betrayed and I just want to hug him.
So many changes and hard things to learn in this chapter, meldonya... transitions are always difficult and I have a bad feelingthat things aren't going to get any easier for our balrog-slayer.
I hope you had a lovely holiday and got to relax and have fun.
May you live blessed,
Edlyn
Author's reply
Glorfindel is in a vulnerable position at this point in time and finds himself having to reinvent himself as he goes along. Whatever his self-image was in his previous life, it will not likely hold him in good stead in his new life, except in the face of hostility such as he encounters with Tinwetariel and the Vanyar. As Tolkien never really explains Glorfindel's parentage or just how close to the royal Eldarin families he might genetically be, I have left it rather vague myself. Others might wish to explore this aspect of Glorfindel's life, but I've decided to let sleeping orcs lie...
Glorfindel shows how he is progressing in maturity (or not) in this chapter, refusing to be baited by Tinwetariel but also refusing to say good-bye to Arafinwë and Eärwen. He is bordering on two worlds and teeters back and forth as his emotions take over. He hasn't yet re-learned the proper balance.
Transitions are indeed difficult and no, Glorfindel's life isn't going to get any easier. If anything, it's about to get even more interesting than it already is. *grin*
I had a wonderful holiday in spite of the fact that I caught a cold along the way. And it was loads of fun.
Radbooks
· 1 May 2007
· Chapter 87: The Servant-Prince's Oath
Ah, now I have to wait for you to return, I do hope you had a good time and got well rested!
Why was Namo so set against having apprentices? He does already have Finrod, though he's sort of special since he's shared with Irmo. Maybe he's just old and set in his ways! :) Also, was he just mad about the ring because they didn't tell him? It wasn't that he didn't want Ingwion to have special help like that, did he?
Anyway, very nice and I can't wait for more!
Author's reply
Yes, I had a very good time and am more or less well rested. I will be posting new chapters by the weekend, once I've finished unpacking (always a chore).
As for Námo's reluctance to taking on an apprentice, I'm not sure what the story is there. Maybe one day we'll be told. As Ingwion is slowly learning, the Valar themselves have a society of rights and obligations which is incumbent upon its members. Recognizing that such things exist and liking them are two different things. Námo may agree that certain duties are necessary for him to perform without having to like performing such duties (the same is true for us as well). I think he's also a bit put-out that no one *told* him about the ring's extra features and that's what's gotten his knickers in a twist.
Radbooks
· 1 May 2007
· Chapter 86: Losing a Bet, Gaining an Apprentice
What do they want Ingwion to do on Tol Eressea? That's going to be interesting to see! I was glad that Namo ended up helping him scrub the floor at the end... it was perfect after the tough day he'd had. :)
Author's reply
Námo's methods may seem a bit odd to most of us, but they do work. As to what the Valar hope to accomplish through Ingwion on Tol Eressëa, only time will tell.