Well that was fast and furious, you can see that Cala whats-her-name comes by her attitude honestly if that is her fathers reaction to seeing Vondo.
Poor Vondo, I don't think any body will be too hard on him, he has been punished enough. Este is right Finderato's technique is improving, has he been working with Irmo on it?
I wonder how Laurendil will feel when he finds out what happened to Vondo, I hope he does not blame himself too much for Vondo's condition.
It would appear that Eru and the Valar are both drawing straight again, devious bunch!
Have a good Memorial day,
Huggs,
Lynda
Author's reply
Hi Lynda. No, I don't think anybody will be too hard on the poor ellon. He's been through enough and this might even set him back emotionally. Laurendil probably does blame himself for what happened and we'll see him soon enough. And Eru is always drawing straight with crooked lines, even those that the Valar themselves make. *grin*
Have a good Memorial Day yourself and thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it.
AE
· 31 May 2010
· Chapter 127: Vondo in Valmar
Hm... odd blue-painted flet, and a room that fits into a space that is much bigger on the inside than the outside appears... So do you like the new Doctor? ^_^ Me too. As well as your story. Super-engaging.
Author's reply
Actually, I haven't seen the new Doctor, although I do like Dr. Who. *grin* The blue flet and the expanding room have nothing to do with each other, of course. Glorfindel is responsible for the former and the Valar for the latter. Anyway, I am so pleased that you find my story super-engaging. I really appreciate you taking the time to letting me know. Thank you.
Hel
· 30 May 2010
· Chapter 126: The Council Continues
Looks like after the snowstorm and the folowing release of tension by the way of a snowballfight everyone is ready to solve the problem in a constructive way. And Morcocáno´s proposal seems like a good basis to develope a form of government. I hope the council continues in that way.
But I wonder what Lord Námo meant with the last remark.
Author's reply
Morcocáno's suggestion seemes to be the most viable, certainly, and it will be interesting to see what comes of it. As for Lord Námo's last remark.... that will be made clear soon enough. *grin*
Larner
· 30 May 2010
· Chapter 126: The Council Continues
Obviously the enforced cooling down period worked, both literally and figuratively. Now all are actually cooperating for a change, and they're leaving their complaints and suspicions behind them. At last--progress!
Author's reply
Progress at last, though it remains to be seen how long it lasts. *grin* Thanks for reviewing, Larner. I hope you are having a good holiday weekend.
Larner
· 30 May 2010
· Chapter 125: A Snowy Respite
And bless the Reborn for recognizing all had become far too serious, and need a moment of sheer play to gain perspective once more. Now, to see the continued meetings more productive!
Author's reply
Bless the Reborn indeed, Larner! They have the right attitude and hopefully the Once-born will appreciate this eventually.
Serinde
· 29 May 2010
· Chapter 125: A Snowy Respite
Force-les de batîr ensemble une tour et tu les changeras en frères. Mais si tu veux qu'ils se haïssent, jette-leur du grain (Antoine de Saint-Exupéry).
Force them to built a tower together and you change them into friends, but if you want them to hate eachanother throw at them some grain.
It seems that the Valar of yours are avid readers of Saint-Ex.
Author's reply
Or Saint-Exupéry knew something of the Valar and their methods.*LOL*
Thanks for the quote, Serindë.
Sunny
· 28 May 2010
· Chapter 126: The Council Continues
The Warriors and the Reborn racing to get to the council chamber was rather amusing. I can actually see the Warriors getting along well with the Reborn – it wouldn’t surprise me if a number of Reborn are also part of the Warrior guild, so the Warriors should be acquainted with the antics of the Reborn. Undoubtedly a number of Warriors would have had a few close calls in the wars in Beleriand, so there might some who in some guarded part of their minds might be thinking “that might have been me” when they interact with Reborn. And for those among them who do not have family, friends or acquaintances who are Reborn – I am sure many of them are waiting for someone to return.
Morcocáno certainly had a good idea with local councils and a council for the entire island. There almost _had_ to be something to the ellon to offset his personality – he is after all well enough regarded by the people of Avallonë to be selected as the head of the city council and the head of their delegation.
Brethorn getting picked as spokesman for his group was undoubtedly a result of his lecture. It would undoubtedly have stung, but it would also have given him respect among the other delegates.
In all, a very productive day. But I wonder how long it will take for trouble to arise again – and what will cause the explosion then! ;-)
Author's reply
Hi Sunny. More than likely the Warriors and the Reborn would get along well with one another for the very reasons you put forth, especially since many of the Reborn would have been warriors. Some of the Warriors might even be alive because some of the Reborn sacrificed their lives for them and there would be that bond between them.
Morcocáno does show that he can be reasonable here and that he's not unintelligent, he just has an abrasive personality that puts others off.
Brethorn apparently is wiser than he lets on, as his speech to the delegates shows. And remember, he knew Finrod in Lórien and probably learned a thing or two from the prince during that time.
As for whether trouble is brewing on the horizon... that remains to be seen. The Council is far from over. *grin*
Thanks for reviewing Sunny. I appreciate it.
Fantasia
· 28 May 2010
· Chapter 126: The Council Continues
Oh well, Finrond is happy that they are not fighting each other, but I'm not...I guess that I need to read some batle scenes...Really, great chapter, I'm glad that thay are reaching to a conclusion and more important, working together.
Lord Morcocáno is a very intelligent elf and no doubt, a good leader, even with his terrible mistakes, and he does love his wife very much. In reality, all the elves in Valinor and the island are not perfect and I beleive that they all suffer post-war-stree (don't know the name)and it is worst with them because they are inmortal and memory never fade, they live witht their problems forever. Sometime being mortal is not bad at all, we don't have the whole eternity to be bitter and frustate, we need to move on and live....
Thanks Fiondil, I really enjoy your stories...Are you going to write a story of Glorfindel parting to Middle Earth and his frineds' reactions? it will be part of this or we will have a Book Three? I like those short stories that show his friends trying to know about this life in ME.
Author's reply
Hi Fantasia. Morcocáno is a pain in the butt, and he's prejudiced against certain groups but he's not lacking in intelligence, just tact. And no, the elves are not perfect (witness Fëanor) and, as you say, they have long memories and long years to nurse grudges, so it's harder for them to let go. That's why it's taken centuries for all this to come to the surface so it could be dealt with. In that respect, you are correct that being Mortal does have it's good points.
It is my hope to wrap up Glorfindel's story with this one. I don't think I want to do a Book Three, although I would like to do a story about him returning to Aman and having to readjust all over again. We'll have to see what the Muse says about it. I may do some more short stories about Glorfindel after he returns to Aman and his friends try to find out what he was up to all that time. Thanks for letting me know how much you enjoy my stories. I really appreciate it and I appreciate you taking the time to leave a review for this one.
Serinde
· 28 May 2010
· Chapter 126: The Council Continues
Interesting. So Morcocáno’s suggestion won the day.
Good that he was prevented to leave alltogether.
Author's reply
Hi Serinde. Yes, it is interesting, isn't it? We've seen only the more unpleasant aspects of Morcocáno's personality to date, but here we see him as being perceptive and intelligent. Which just shows that people are not all one thing or another but a mixture. Morcocáno's personality is abrasive but he does have some good qualities as we see in this chapter.
ellie
· 26 May 2010
· Chapter 124: The First Session: Afternoon
This was a shocking revelation about Olwe's son. I'm guessing he was killed in the kinslaying and the whole reborn thing did not go well at all in Olwe's house. That outburst from teh Reborn delegation was most unexpected. So all of the kings have something traumatic in their pasts, huh? This was a very powerful chapter and that whole situation with the Reborn was amazing.
I love this story!
Author's reply
Hi Ellie. I was just as shocked as you when Brethorn mentioned Falmaron. Even I wasn't expecting that. We'll meet Falmaron in a later chapter and learn his side of the story. The Reborn are not as cute, cuddly and clueless as some of the Once-born would like to believe, and Brethorn has proved it here.
I'm very happy to know that you love this story. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I greatly appreciate it.
ellie
· 26 May 2010
· Chapter 125: A Snowy Respite
This was so much fun! I loved the solution to the problem of fussy people who needed to chill - literally! It was very Jack O'Neill of you and such a fun read.
Author's reply
Ah, Jack O'Neill... yes, it would be just like him, wouldn't it? *LOL* Glad you had fun with this chapter, Ellie. I certainly did.
Rhyselle
· 25 May 2010
· Chapter 125: A Snowy Respite
I can't stop chuckling at this chapter... What a great fun thing it was. I admit that when we were digging out from our blizzard this past winter, we ended up spending as much time throwing snow at each other as we did shoveling off the walkways. *grin*
I liked how one way or another, the elves came together to deal with the snow. Which, of course, was the point.
Somehow I missed the story alert in my email for this chapter, but it was worth the wait. :) Well done!
Author's reply
Exactly, Rhyselle. That was the whole point, at least as far as the Valar are concerned. That's why they made it impossible for the delegates to leave the mansions until the elves of Eldamas, along with the Amanian delegates, freed them. It gave the Tol Eressëans a chance to see how the Amanians worked together whatever their differences might be.
Glad you enjoyed the chapter, Rhyselle. Tanks for reviewing.
I've noticed in the past few days that I'm not getting review alerts in a timely fashion. Apparently SoA is being very slow about it for some reason so I'm not surprised that you missed the email alert. Hopefully whatever is causing the delay will be fixed soon.
Anonymous
· 25 May 2010
· Chapter 125: A Snowy Respite
Just wondering: if this is 'Glorfindel's Quest,' then why have we not seen Glorfindel in over twenty chapters? The stuff in Tirion's interesting enough, but doesn't seem to have anything to do with 'Glorfindel's Quest.' It seems like it should perhaps be a story of its own.
Author's reply
While we haven't seen Glorfindel in some while (we will see him again soon though), it is all of a piece and these chapters are a natural progression from what has gone on before. Glorfindel is presently with Eärendil and that will prove important with respect to what is happening elsewhere, particularly with the Council. Eventually the two plotlines will converge. No matter what else is happening in Aman, it always comes back to Glorfindel; he is the catalyst for everything that happens, either directly or indirectly.
Considering the fact that your question is a legitimate one, for I'm sure others are wondering where Glorfindel has gone to, I find it odd that you feel the need to leave an anonymous review. I have to wonder what you're afraid of. At any rate, I hope this answers your question.
Erulisse (one L)
· 25 May 2010
· Chapter 125: A Snowy Respite
Oh goodness - snow, and a lot of it. Living here in the snowbelt of the US, I deal with snow for many months each year. Shoveling is NOT one of my favorite things to do. The very idea of singing and laughing while shoveling snow that reaches higher than one storey up sends shivers up my spine :-) I can't even imagine having such a good time moving snow.
But it appears that the elves have managed to find the good points in this, and I find it refreshing (as I'm sure the Valar also do) that these formerly divisive groups of elves are now working together, and even playing together. This will be a good "ice-breaker" for them, I think, and perhaps may negate the necessity of Lord Namo having to "have a little talk" with some of the more recalcitrant elves.
Thanks for another great chapter :-)
- Erulisse (one L)
Author's reply
Having lived most of my life in the snowbelt as well, I know all about shoveling the white stuff. I'm not fond of the sport myself. *grin* But elves have a different outlook and they don't tire as easily. Hopefully, the Valar's ploy in forcing them to work together (and the good elves of Eldamas along with the royal families make a good example) is just what is needed to, as you say, break the ice. We'll see how long the good feelings last.
Thanks for reviewing, Erulissë. I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter.
Tari
· 24 May 2010
· Chapter 124: The First Session: Afternoon
I agree with Marthchall and Brethorn. One impartial person to overlook all the elves would be the wisest choice. Having individuals in charge of each group would not work. It hasn't up till now, so why would they think it would work in the future. Having only one "ruler" is the only way to start the healing and overcoming of prejudices in my humble opinion.
Author's reply
I suspect you are correct, Tari, and hopefully, the other delegates will see it Marthchall and Brethorn's way, although we still need to hear what the Avallóneans have to say about it all before anything can be decided yea or nay. We will hear their views when the Council next meets.
Larner
· 24 May 2010
· Chapter 124: The First Session: Afternoon
It appears that all have managed to fail themselves and one another; yes, time for a better form of government that accepts all equally.
Author's reply
Very true, Larner. Now to see if they are courageous enough to recognize this and work together towards an equitable government.
6336
· 24 May 2010
· Chapter 125: A Snowy Respite
Ooo! Snow! Glad it's the elves clearing it and not me!
(Last time I saw snow was about two years ago, when I was up visiting the Orclings and their Nana!)
Wonder how much snow the rest of Valinor got?
Still think Namo needs to have one of his little 'chats' with Morcocano, wouldn't hurt Galadwen to have one either! Maybe he will have the oppertunity during the confrance.
Nice interlude,
Lynda
Author's reply
Well, you never know, Lynda. Námo might indeed have one of his little 'chats' with those two before the end. *grin*
Kitty
· 24 May 2010
· Chapter 125: A Snowy Respite
Being a Vala has some use, like just causing a snowstorm to delay something without having to argue with the delayed people beforehand. Do you think I could convince them to send such a storm in the night when I'm not motivated to go to work the next day? O:-)
Elves have clearly more endurance than us poor mortals. I'd not want to shovel snow for *that* long! But the more I read, the more I think once again that the Valar are devious bastards. They seem to have done it only to force the delegations to work together. And it seems in the end snowballs were able to do what diplomatic talk couldn't do ;-)
Anyway, nice, relaxing chapter. Let's see if they can manage the next session without more serious incidents.
Author's reply
Yes, the Valar are a devious lot, aren't they, Kitty? *grin* I'm sure that the snowstorm served two purposes: forcing people to chill and then to work together to clear the snow.
Anyway, nice, relaxing chapter. Let's see if they can manage the next session without more serious incidents.
Oh, Kitty, from your lips to the Valar's ears.*LOL*
Kitty
· 24 May 2010
· Chapter 124: The First Session: Afternoon
While Galadhwen is as arrogant as ever, Marthchall said it best of all, I think. Though it's not a surprise that the miners, who are shunned by most of the islanders, see more clearly where the government is lacking than the ones who are profiting from the current situation. And his opinion that they need a leader from outside left me thinking of Ingwion. I am sure he could do it. Oh well, we will see.
*sigh* I knew it, now that it was Morcócano's turn there was no way the peace of the morning would last. Though I was surprised that one of the Teleri had to start it, and in such a rude way. Oh well, at least she got thrown out, and as far as I am concerned, the Council can go on without her.
Brethorn's speech must have stung. You know, coming from the Reborn, who so many see as children, it was ironic to hear they were waiting for the Once-born to mature *grin* That ellon isn't afraid of speaking out uncomfortable truths, isn't he? But his words may give certain people something to think. The kings already know they neglected their duties, but I doubt most Amanians outside of the circle around the kings see it the same way.
Oh well, at least the session ended with on a more light note, with the Valar poking fun at Námo.
As for your first note, that was interesting. Haven't seen that detail before, but it explains a lot; I had always wondered why Aragorn with 20 didn't even know Arwen existed, after living so long in Imladris.
Author's reply
Usually the outsiders (or those who have been marginalized by society) have a clearer understanding of what needs to be done to fix a particular problem. Certainly Marthchall and the other miners qualify. As to who might possibly fit the bill of an outsider acting as their leader, we'll have to wait and see what the Council members come up with.
I am sure many readers were surprised that it was one of the Teleri who started the trouble, but when you think about it, and the history between the Teleri and the Noldor, I don't think it's too off base. Not every Teler is going to be as forgiving as Olwë or Lindarion.
I'm sure it was quite a shock to hear such harsh words coming from someone that most probably dismissed as being feckless. It shows, I think, that the Reborn aren't above using that image to their own advantage. Hopefully, his words will have the desired effect and get people thinking.
As for my note... I tried to remember just where I read that about the elves (it's not something that I would just make up) but I couldn't find it, yet I know I read it somewhere. I had always thought it odd that Aragorn was unaware of Arwen's existence, too, so when I came across this idea in one of Tolkien's writings (most likely it's hidden in one of his own 'Notes'), it finally made sense.
Kitty
· 24 May 2010
· Chapter 123: The First Session: Morning
Can't fault Finrod for not being happy about Salamacas' presence, to be honest. Can't stand that one myself. So I'm glad Arafinwë made clear beforehand that he's not willing to countenance any nasty remarks.
I'm going to miss the elflings, too, but I trust Finrod to find a way to see them frequently and so, in turn, we readers as well. Admittedly, I'd like to see how their parents react to them; they have changed quite a bit in these few months, after all. All for the better, of course, but I'm not certain all parents think the same.
Really like the Reborn, they are so enthusiastic and open. And I think having Manwë sitting between the two main troublemakers is a good thing, even if he doesn't share that opinion; at least they will not be at each others throats literally, I hope.
Tsk, tsk. Talk about short attention spans!
Author's reply
I'm sure Finrod isn't the only one unhappy to see Salmacas there. It has to be very uncomfortable for Aldundil and his parents as well.
I know a lot of people will be missing the elflings when they return to their parents. I'm sure Finrod will see to it that he and they will meet often. We do know that Lindorillë will eventually take oath with him and become his squire (see my story "Beginnings"), so obviously some contact continued between Finrod and the children over the years.
Yeah, the Reborn have a whole different outlook from the Once-born. They know first-hand what 'second chance' really means and they take advantage of it to the hilt.
As for Galadhwen and Morcocáno... I suspect they're birds of a feather in many ways but each is sure that his or her opinion is the only one that counts. And I think Manwë, for all his protestations to the contrary, is enjoying himself immensely. *grin*
Kitty
· 24 May 2010
· Chapter 122: The Winter Solstice Council Opens
Nice way to decide on the seating arrangement – now no one can complain that he/she wasn't seated appropriately.
Urgh. Morcocáno *and* Galadhwen? That's a guarantee for trouble, that much is certain. Otherwise, that introduction went at least peaceful, though i doubt that will last once they get on to the task. Things are difficult enough without these two, but with them?
You and I checked that area just two millennia ago and it was perfectly fine." *snort* Of course, what could change in these few days?
Author's reply
The seating arrangement does add an element of chance as to who sits where and with whom and shows no favoritism. Morcocáno and Galadhwen are very strong personalities and, whatever their personal failings, they are good leaders for their people. We've simply seen them at their worst because neither one cares for the intervention of the Amanians into their affairs and the affairs of the rest of the island.
And what's a millennium or two when you've been hanging around for over 13 billion years as it is? *LOL*
Kitty
· 24 May 2010
· Chapter 121: The Winter Solstice Ball
Drafty old monstrosity? *raises eyebrow* I take it Lindarion has some bad memories in connection with that house? Seems to be another teaser for the Darkening story?
Glad Finrod brought the elflings along. I know I have said it before, but I love them, and particularly Vorondil, Veryandur and Eruanna.
Manwë's speech about candles and the dark was summing up the situation quite well, wasn't it? And the bit about him and dancing left me snickering. Really love that sort of bickering; it makes the Valar so much more ... human, for lack of a better word.
Double wedding? Now that would be a nice idea. Only a pity we can't have Glorfindel thrown into the mix, too. Would be nice to marry these three gwedyr off together.
Author's reply
Drafty old monstrosity? *raises eyebrow* I take it Lindarion has some bad memories in connection with that house? Seems to be another teaser for the Darkening story?
You may be correct, Kitty, but you'll have to wait to find out. *grin*
While most of those at the Ball had no idea what the conversation between Manwë and Ingwë was about, the fact that they could see a teasing between them and the easy way in which Ingwë approachhed the Elder King, was an object lesson for them all. And you're right, Kitty, about this sort of thing making the Valar so much more human, or perhaps humane would be a better word.
As for having a double wedding.... I doubt it would happen. Finrod and Amarië have waited so long for their special day, I don't think anyone would want to detract from it. And having Glorfindel married would be unfair to his wife once he goes back to Middle-earth.
Kitty
· 24 May 2010
· Chapter 120: At the Reception in Tirion
Serindë is right; it's an awkward situation for many. And she should consider that all these groups have developed different styles and tastes in clothing; they just did their best to look nice for the occasion. It doesn't help that in most cases they don't know what others are used to wear, either.
Well, at least Mardillë can't complain about the Reborn being overdressed peacocks as well, but it had to be quite a shock for her to learn that Finrod has chosen Morwen to do his wedding outfit. Considering the arguments about the tunic she did for him in Lórien, I am certain some people will be a bit upset about that *eg*
Morcocáno really is an idiot, causing that sort of trouble in the middle of the court and after all that happened in Tol Eressëa! But while I wanted to slap him silly, I was cheering Nelluin on. That elleth knows how to deal with her recalcitrant husband, no doubt about that! But I have to agree with Arafinwë - I really don't see what possessed the Avallóneans to send him, of all people.
Author's reply
It is indeed a very awkward situation for many, especially for the Reborn. And yes, I imagine one or two people will be upset when they learn that Finrod's wedding clothes will be made by the person who did *that blue tunic*. *grin*
Morcocáno is indeed an idiot, but he is influential and he has friends. Yet, I think we will see a different side of him at the Council. He isn't a bad sort, just blind in this one particular area because he can't admit to himself what happened to his own wife, so he sees other former slaves as threats to his self-image and Nelluin's reputation. Irrational, of course, but the heart doesn't need to make sense.
Kitty
· 24 May 2010
· Chapter 119: A Gathering of Delegates
The farming communities feel better representated by the miners of Angobel? Now that's a surprise, considering how so many think about the former slaves. Interesting, indeed. But maybe it's not really so much of a surprise, when one thinks more about it. They are both misunderstood by the other Tol Eressëans, after all.
but if I know Atar, he would much rather sit back and watch the show. *grin* Finrod should be right. And show is an appropriate term, knowing you and your elves ;-) Really look forward to it myself.
'Once-born' meant to be an insult? Knowing Glorfindel, Herendil could very well be right *grin*
Ah yes, someone who looks forward to see the forbidding Lord of Mandos can't be normal, can he? No wonder the Nandor don't feel at ease with their travelling companions. For others it has to be difficult to understand the relationship the Reborn share with Námo.
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. We will actually (through Finrod, of course) learn just why these particular farming communities decided to join with the miners of Angobel. I don't think their reasoning will come as a surprise.
Those who do not have an intimate relationsihp with Námo as do the Reborn will find it disconcerting to say the least when someone talks about actually wanting to see the dread Lord of Mandos. Most elves only know him as the Doomsman of the Valar rather than as the Consoler and Comforter of souls.
I'm glad you are looking forward to the 'show'. *grin* It should prove interesting, to say the least.
Kitty
· 23 May 2010
· Chapter 118: Uncle Vondo
That went better than it could have been, and maybe it was good Vorondil sr. realised who Vorondil jr. was while he was with these three elflings; they weren't prepared for the discovery, but they were absolutely sweet in their concern for him and how they reacted. Their innocent discussion about the Reborn made it clear for him that crying was normal and nothing to be ashamed, and their hugs comforted him. And I like it how they are calling him Uncle so naturally, even Veryandur and Eruanna.
So the name problem is solved, too. Good. Two Vorondils among the main characters would be a bit confusing, that's for sure.
It has to be reassuring for Vondo to learn that his problems in remembering his family are normal. And it certainly doesn't hurt to learn that from not only another Reborn, but Finrod, of all people. Knowing that he can come to him any time he needs it should be reassuring as well. And it's great that Finrod found a purpose for him so easily and started to help him achieving it right away. It will help Vondo to have a goal to work for, I believe.
Author's reply
I think Finrod purposely planned this meeting knowing that it would be less traumatic for both Vorondil's. Having the two youngest elflings in their little group would also make it less threatening for them both.
Finrod may not have been the first elf to be reborn, but he is the highest ranking of them and the most visible. I'm sure Vondo is proud (if a little confused) of the fact that a prince of the realm is taking an interest in his welfare and future. And having a viable goal to work for should help mature him more quickly.