I wish there had been some of the former slaves among the delegates, but I am glad to see that the lesser folk are rising up to say they want something done on Tol Eressea. Arafinwe does a great job of handling these people and trying to make them comfortable.
Author's reply
Í can't believe I missed this, Ellie. I bet you're surprised to get a response after all this time. LOL! Anyway, we all know it worked out for the best in the end and Arafinwë is the consumate king and all-around good guy, isn't he? Sorry for the delay in responding.
ellie
· 27 March 2010
· Chapter 108: Arrival in Valmar
forgot to tell you that the review praising arafinwe was from me as if you hadn't already guessed. sorry I forgot to sign it!
Author's reply
No problem, Ellie. Thanks for letting me know.
Anonymous
· 27 March 2010
· Chapter 108: Arrival in Valmar
Arafinwe is such a good dad. I don't blmae him one bit for storming in there and demanding to know where his son was. I'm glad that he calmed down though and was suitably chastised for his behavior. It showed the Tol eresseans that living beside the Valar it is possible to treat them like normal people - just don't go too far with it. Arafinwe really is an excellent king and a just plain good ellon.
it truely must be a weird experience for the elves living so closely with the Maiar and Valar who are so far beyond them and yet so like them, too.
Author's reply
Yes, he is, isn't he? He's the sort of father I never had myself, and I wish he could be my dad, too. I think with him as an example, Finrod will make an excellent daddy himself someday. *grin*
I think most of the Amanian Elves rarely think about the Valar and Maiar in their midst. They're just there in the background but they don't have anything to do with them on a day-to-day basis, so when the Valar do intrude into their lives it comes to something of a shock. Of course, for some people, because of who they are, they are often in contact with the Valar or at least with their Maiar servants so it's a bit different for them. Arafinwë knows how far he can get away with his attitude without crossing the line into disrespect. That's something that Ingwion hasn't quite mastered yet as you may recall. *grin*
Rhyselle
· 27 March 2010
· Chapter 108: Arrival in Valmar
It has been far too long since I left you a review for this story (RL has been amazingly busy!) but I just had to comment on this one!
I just knew, when Arafinwe told Sador and the other Reborn to be back in time for supper, that they weren't going to make it! LOL!
I really find it interesting how much the Reborn feel that yearning to be with Lord Namo, and still have discomfort about it too. It's a good parallel with how many of us yearn to be with God, and yet fear being that close to Love Eternal.
Sador and company were a great excuse to get Arafinwe and members of the Delegation to meet with the Valar at a time when the Delegation was... unprepared... for the meeting. Meeting at a pre-arranged time would have given them time to build up their "armor" and strengthen their pre-existing opinions and attitudes, but with the concern about the missing "elflings" and the surprise of seeing all of the Powers, this time their reactions were true. Of course the Valar can see beyond the facade that the elves project to each other, but this was quite educational for the delegates.
As always, this was wonderfully written and while I love following Glorfindel's thread through the story, I really like knowing what is going on with the rest of the characters I've come to love since I first clicked on the link to "Elf Interrupted more than 2 years ago.
Looking forward to seeing just how Maranwe and Vanimelde were keeping Sador and company entertained, as well as just what the Valar's purpose for the trio is.
Well done!
Author's reply
Hi, Rhyselle. I find your observation about the parallel between the Reborns' yearning yet discomfort to be with Lord Námo and our own yearning yet fear of being close to Love Eternal very telling. I had never thought of it quite that way and I appreciate you drawing the parallel. Something to think about, surely.
The three members of the Delegation certainly did not have time to 'rehearse' their lines for the Valar, that's for sure. *grin* Just as well. It made things easier for the Valar to cut through the chaff and get to what was really important.
I'm glad you are finding this story still a wonderful read after more than two years (more like three!) and are looking forward for more. Thanks for taking the time to let me know. I really appreciate it. Next chapter we will indeed see what the Valar want with our three Reborn and you won't have long to wait, either. *grin*
Sunny
· 26 March 2010
· Chapter 108: Arrival in Valmar
Typo alert: ”... the gate that had not been built by any elvish wight ...” I think you had intended to use _wright_.
I suspect that the story of how _The Inn of the Laughing Vala_ got its name would have been even stranger if the Elves knes that the Valar drew straws to find out which one of them got to visit the inn first – and that Tulkas won. :-)
Heh – as soon as the elves had dumped their luggage in their rooms, three of the Reborn made a beeline for Námo’s mansion.
Seeing the Reborn comparing notes about their experiences was interesting. I think the Reborn are all forming a cheering section for Finrod and his effort to reeducate the Lóriennildi. They are all evidently rather annoyed about the attitude of the Lóriennildi that their past was of no consequence. And such an attitude isn’t a good one. As Glóremmir said, “The past is what defines us. All our experiences, good and bad, make up the sum of who we are.”
I suspect Luhtanna may find out just what sort of trouble three reborn can get into in Valmar. If necessary, they may well invent an entirely new kind of trouble. ;-)
Since the valar have decided to open their mansions for the delegates, I suspect Manwë is going to get nagged by Varda about the floors... ;-)
Author's reply
_Wight_: from Old English _wiht_ (obsolete) 'a living being; a creature.'
Of course I could have used the word _wright_ and that would have fit as well, but I deliberately used _wight_ to indicate any and all elvish persons as opposed to just those who were capable of crafting such gates (not all Elves would have had the necessary skills involved).
I suspect you are correct about _The Laughing Vala_. I cannot imagine too many Elves able to visualize the Valar resorting to something like drawing straws to see who gets to go. *grin*
The Reborn as a group I think will be instrumental in re-educating many of the Elves of Aman and not just the Lòriennildi. Having a prince of the realm who is also a Reborn at the vanguard of such a movement can only help.
And I'm sure Varda will restrain herself around the Elves and wait until after they are gone to start grousing about the floors. *grin*
Thanks for the comments, Sunny. I appreciate you taking the time to send them.
6336
· 26 March 2010
· Chapter 108: Arrival in Valmar
Hm, interesting, very interesting!
Just what are Sador and Company up to with the Maia?
Yes, I know it's coming. it's coming!
Lynda
Author's reply
Hi, Lynda. Glad you enjoyed this chapter. Next chapter will reveal what happened to the three Reborn and you won't have too long to wait for it. *grin*
Arwen75
· 26 March 2010
· Chapter 108: Arrival in Valmar
Now wandering where those three have got to.... Really enjoying this Fiondil - I am reading every new chapter, but not reveiwing thanks to real life. Looking forwrad to seeing where this council goes....
Author's reply
We'll see in the next chapter what happened to our three Reborn, Arwen. Glad you are still reading and enjoying this story. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it.
Sitara
· 26 March 2010
· Chapter 104: Consultation with Irmo
Irmo is far from being my favorite Vala; on the contrary , I might say. „grin” But this time he does have a point or two in his discussion with Finrod, at least when it comes about trust. At any case, it remains to be seen; Finrod might have to play a significant part but I still think that trust is a more delicate matter than it seems.
Liked to see the elflings and Aldundil well; speaking of which this makes me wonder if and when would he meet again his newly-Reborn brother.
Author's reply
Irmo has his good points. *grin* And trust is a two-way street and it remains to be seen how far any of them are willing to trust.
As for Aldundil meeting his newly-Reborn brother... that, too, remains to be seen.
Tari
· 24 March 2010
· Chapter 107: Delegation
This was another most excellent chapter. Nothing in particular stands out in my mind. I'm just waiting to see how things to with the meeting.
Author's reply
Glad you enjoyed this chapter, Tari, and that you are looking forward to more. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it.
Larner
· 22 March 2010
· Chapter 107: Delegation
I am so glad so many have come, and more will be there for the council itself. And, of course, it saves Gilvagor a trip himself! Now, to see how some of these react to their time in Valmar.
Author's reply
I'm sure Arafinwë was pleasantly surprised by the number who came even if Angobel wasn't really represented except by proxy. And I'm sure Gilvagor was happy not to have to pack again. *grin* We'll see how things go in Valmar soon enough. Thanks for reviewing, Larner. I appreciate it.
Sunny
· 22 March 2010
· Chapter 107: Delegation
The first participants in the conference has arrived. And Morcocáno is rather conspicuous by his absence. I rather wonder if he is going to show up later – but if he is not there to cause trouble, I am certain that there will be those who will take over the job with enthusiasm. ;-)
I see that the reborn are boggling the minds of those among the guests who are not used to them, casually telling that they will be happy to see Námo again, and worrying that he might have forgotten them. (And wouldn’t it be nice to pop in for a visit just to renew the acquaintance...) I could just about hear jaws hitting the floor! :-D
Author's reply
Whether Morcocáno shows up remains to be seen.
As for the Reborn... *LOL* Yes, several jaws were dropping at their casual references to Námo as if talking about a favorite uncle they haven't seen in years. We'll see something of their meeting with Námo in subsequent chapters.
6336
· 22 March 2010
· Chapter 107: Delegation
Well this was a nice surprise for Arafinwe, I think even Glorfindel wouldn't have minded this one!
Yes, I think a visit to Valmar and Manwe is in order if only to insure the Tol Erresseans that the Valar will not impose on them to any great extent. Seeing Valmar on an average day will expose them to normal interactions between Maier and Elda.
Now to convince the rest of them to come!
Lynda
Author's reply
I'm sure the visit to Valmar will prove productive for everyone.
Hel
· 21 March 2010
· Chapter 106: Waiting Game
The Valar have decided to host the Council, so that they can take part. Some of the Tol Eressëans will get that wrong. But if they had decided to not take part someoner would shurely say, that they don´t care or something like that. I guess that there is not right solution to this problem. The question left is who will show up of his or her own and who will need a little shove in the right direction.
As a bad letter writer myself Finrod has me sympathy and understanding.
And I´m glad that Beleg is coming along that well in his emotional development and that he has decided to take part in the council on behalf of the reborns and those who will be reborn in the future.
Author's reply
As to who will show up, willingly or unwillingly, that remains to be seen, of course. And you are correct, there is no right solution to this; but this solution is probably better than otehrs.
Beleg is getting there. Having a loving family guiding him helps. He will be a very good representative of the Reborn.
Kitty
· 21 March 2010
· Chapter 106: Waiting Game
Nice to see Herendil more included now. He really grew on me during 'Diaries'.
Hmmm ... it's true, I think the Valar hosting the council could and will have not only advantages, but some disadvantages as well. I'm really curious how that all will turn out.
Seems Finrod is as bad in answering letters as I am lately *grin*
Ingil was lying? Not sure that was wise. Wouldn't Finrod find out about that easily and be angry?
Author's reply
I'm glad you like Herendil, Kitty. He grew on me, too. We'll see more of him as the story continues.
I think if Finrod finds out that Ingil wasn't telling the truth about the whereabouts of certain people, he will realize that the Maia did so for a reason and will forgive him. And while his fellow Maia accuses of him lying, it's probably closer to the truth to say that Ingil simply didn't tell Finrod the whole truth, something the Maiar and the Valar are very good at doing. *grin*
Kitty
· 21 March 2010
· Chapter 105: Consultation with Manwë
*sigh* On the one hand I look forward to that council, but on the other hand, I am fearing it a bit. I'm just not naive enough to believe it will go without any major incidents. Particularly as you are writing it ;-)
Author's reply
As to how the council will go... that remains to be seen. I'm sure it will not all go smoothly (what council ever does?) but I'm sure the objectives will be reached to the satisfaction of most if not all participants. How that will occur, of course, is the story....
Kitty
· 21 March 2010
· Chapter 104: Consultation with Irmo
After seeing how Amarië acted in the 'Diaries' series, it is nice to see her so improved now. Much more lovable ;)
You know, it sounds weird for me mere mortal that Eärnur thinks it would be too early to get his master after *fourty* years of learning - and that's only since he became a journeyman! Together it have to be over 100 years aleady. Elves have really an odd sense of time. Oh well, I am glad to know Irmo is satisfied with his progress, and that the ellyn they sent there for healing are doing well.
Interesting and thought-provoking discussion between Irmo and Finrod about the situation on Tol Eressëa. Yes, I can see why the presence of Finrod and Glorfindel would be more useful than even the kings. Though the two will have their work cut out for them - it will not be an easy task.
"They are a menace to Amanian civilization as we know it and the bane of my existence." *LOL* But live in Aman would be quite boring for the Maiar and Valar without these two ;-)
Author's reply
Yes, Amarië is a reformed elleth. *LOL*
Elves have a different sense of time than we mere mortals have so it's hard to imagine their mindset at times. Of course, elves think we mortals are always rushing hither and yon and can't quite grasp our sense of urgency to get things done before the end, so I guess it evens out. *grin*
I'm glad you found the dicussion between Irmo and Finrod interesting and thought-provoking. That was the intent. I know many readers prefer action all the time, but action without reflection is meaningless in my mind. One has to stop once in a while and think about what is going on or you're just riding a carousel getting nowhere fast.
I'm sure that however much the Valar and/or the Maiar grouse at the trouble Finrod and Glorfindel cause, they really do enjoy them and I'm sure when Glorfindel leaves for Middle-earth, life for them will seem just a little more staid and dull. *grin*
Kitty
· 21 March 2010
· Chapter 103: Reunions in Tirion
“However, I am afraid that along with learning proper decorum from you, your little ones learned other lessons from their Reborn friends and put those lessons to good use.” Oh, I can imagine they got some ideas from them *grin*
Glad to have the elflings back; I really missed them, particularly Vorondil and Veryandur! Their exuberance at seeing Finrod again was sweet, you know. Sometimes I really wonder how they will react when they are sent back to their parents, particularly the older ones.
“she and Sador are too busy falling in love for her to be bothered with being my squire.” Yay! He said it! About time! Had suspected that for quite a while already.
Author's reply
A lot of people seem to like seeing the elflings and Vorondil. I guess they are a real hit with most readers. I'm not sure how they will react when their time with Finrod is up. Most likely there will be tears on both sides, but they do have families who love them and to keep them away from their parents would be cruel. I'm sure, though, that Finrod will keep in contact with them. Perhaps some arrangement will be made whereby the elflings get to spend a certain amount of time with Finrod each year. I'm sure that will be acceptable to the parents.
Kitty
· 21 March 2010
· Chapter 102: The Meaning of ‘Quest’
Elwing talking about her murdered family reminded me again who exactly her brothers are. I wonder if there's any hope Elured and Elurin will be released while Glorfindel is still there and he is reunited with these two along with Elwing?
Anyway, what Elwing said about chosing not to surrender the Silmaril and abandon her sons sounds logical. It must have been harder later on when she realised she would not see at least Elros again.
While I can understand that Eärendil doesn't like to be stared at and feels better where they are living now, I still hope Glorfindel can convince them to come to Finrod's wedding, regardless of if he himself stays that long or not.
"A Maia never eavesdrops," he protested with a supercilious sniff, "but it’s not our fault if you Children are loud in your thoughts and voices." *lol* That's a way to put it, of course ...
"You do not have to cause trouble to be trouble, Glorfindel," Mánatamir said with a grin. "You just have to be." While that is true, I still feel sorry for Glorfindel. It's not his fault that his mere presence is always setting off unexpected and often unwanted reactions, even if he is doing nothing at all! I can see how his presence and quest have given these elflings the idea to seek Eärendil, too, but it was really not his fault this time.
His restlessness is another reason why I feel a bit sorry for Glorfindel. He had hoped to find his answers by finding Eärendil, and realising it's only part of it can't be too easy for him. I just hope he will have a good time there despite it all. Oh well, I guess his sword-brothers will keep him entertained. Glad to know Manveru is so protective of him :D
Author's reply
I don't think Elwing's brothers are ready to be released yet. I have the feeling though that they'll be Reborn during the time Glorfindel is in Middle-earth and they'll be waiting for him when he returns to Aman.
I'm sure Glorfindel will be very persuasive and convince Eärendil and Elwing to come with him. It's high time they stopped hiding anyway, IMO.
Part of Glorfindel's restlessness, I think, stems from not knowing where he fits in and not feeling particularly useful to anyone. I think when he returns to Middle-earth he will find his 'calling' and be content. In the meantime, it's a good thing the Maiar are around to keep him amused. *grin*
Thanks for reviewing, Kitty. I appreciate your thoughts.
Larner
· 20 March 2010
· Chapter 106: Waiting Game
Excellent decisions being made. Now, to see who wishes to come to the council, and who might need some--persuasion.
Author's reply
We'll find out soon enough, Larner, never fear.
Sunny
· 19 March 2010
· Chapter 106: Waiting Game
Arafinwë is certainly a busy ellon in this chapter – presumably laying plans and doing what he can to contain the situation for Murphy’s inevitable visit to the conference.
Probably some Maiar will make a visit to a select few to stiffen their courage about participating in the conference – particularly if they are not members of the local councils. Add to that Finrod’s letter, as well as the stories about certain things that happened on the progress, which are probably now spreading like wildfire on the island, I think there is going to be a reasonable turnout for the conference after all. Including some of the difficult ones – which are going add interest to the chapters about the conference.
And, following the Law of Unintended Consequences, the actions of those realcitrant participants may perhaps make whatever is result of the conference better than had been expected.
I wonder if those Valar dealing with that sort of things are currently going over their reeducation curricula for realcitrant Elves? Just to be prepared, I mean
Ooh – Finrod is being scolded by his mama. I am sure she knows just the words to use to make him ashamed of his lack of diligence in his letter-writing. ;-)
And I see that Glorfindel is having fun being beaten up by Maiar. ;-)
Author's reply
Everyone is busy getting ready for the council. As to who eventually shows up, that remains to be seen. And I'm sure the Valar are indeed looking over their re-education curricula for recalcitrant Elves and making revisions. *grin*
At least Finrod didn't receive a screamer or whatever it was called that poor Ron in the Harry Potter novels kept receiving from his mom. *LOL* That would have been beyond embarrassing.
And Glorfindel always has fun with the Maiar whatever punishment they mete out to him. He wouldn't be Glorfindel otherwise. *grin*
I'm glad you found this a interesting chapter with all that was going on, Sunny. Thanks for reading and reviewing.
ellie
· 19 March 2010
· Chapter 106: Waiting Game
Arafinwe was a man with a plan in this chapter. My goodness! I loved the way he had everything and everyone all sorted out, but I bet he took the afternoon off afterward!
Earwen is a good momma and uses her influence over Finrod quite well. teehee...
Poor Glorfy is probably getting pummelled every day but I bet he is enjoying every minute of it. I hope you write about the others' reactiosn to his new fighting prowess.
Author's reply
I'm sure Arafinwë took the afternoon off, too, Ellie, with firm instructions t his guards that he and the wife were not to be disturbed for any reason. *grin*
I'm sure Glorfindel is enjoying himself to no end. I'll see what I can do about your request. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it.
6336
· 19 March 2010
· Chapter 106: Waiting Game
Good, good, the plans are coming together, if the Tol Erressians cooperate with out the 'help' of the Valar it will be better for all. If they need a little persuasion it will not be well received, if they still don't go they will have to live with the decisions made for them.
Still think Morrocano could use some time in Lorien, if his wife can accept that she was once Molonoldo, why can't he?
Finda you need to write to Amarie more often, even if it is just a postcard once a week with 'I love you, Finda' scrawled on it!
Even if it wasn't a total sucess some good has come from the Progress, Haldir and his father are on better terms and Beleg and some of the other Reborn have benefitted.
More please,
Lynda
Author's reply
Perhaps if Morcocáno comes to the council certain... um... people will make a strong recommendastion that he spend a little time in Lórien. I'm sure his wife would enjoy the respite.
The Progress might not have achieved the goals it set out to achieve, at least not initially, but, as you say, some good did come from it and so in that respect it was a success. At least it got people on both sides of the issue thinking and talking and that's important, too.
Glad you liked the chapter, Lynda. Thanks for reviewing. More to come, I promise.
Tari
· 17 March 2010
· Chapter 105: Consultation with Manwë
Let the games begin. This is going to be such fun (she rubs her hands together with glee and anticipation).
Author's reply
Let the games begin, indeed! *LOL* Hopefully you won't be disappointed.
Sitara
· 17 March 2010
· Chapter 103: Reunions in Tirion
Yay! Elflings again! I simply adore Vorondil and Veryandur is beyond cute!...”dancing with joy” I’m so glad for them having such a good time at Aldundil’s father’s house and for being reunited with Finrod! A delightful chapter, more so as it comes after several somewhat gloomy chapters, at least from my point of view. “grin” It was also nice to hear good news from Lasgalad, Martchall and their companions. As for Laurendil and Manwen…do let us witness the first exchange of words between Laurendil and Irmo, please. “rubbing her hands expectantly”
Huh?...Sador and Alassiel?! I would have sworn she’ll end up someday as Glorfindel’s girl. Back in EI I, I thought I saw some clear hints, you know. But now, you just have to find Glorfindel too a bride. Or is he going to meet someone in Middle-earth? "lol"
Author's reply
Hi, Sitara. I'm glad you found this such a delightful chapter. It is rather lighthearted, isn't it? And we certainly needed something lighthearted after the Progress and all that went on. I don't know if we'll see the exchange between Laurendil and Irmo except possibly in flashback.
And I don't think Glorfindel is the marrying kind. *grin* Besides, it would be rather cruel for him to get involved with someone and then have to leave them for who knows how long when he goes back to Middle-earth, don't you think? Maybe when he comes back, there will be a lot of matchmaking going on among his friends wanting to see him 'settled down'. *LOL*
Sunny
· 16 March 2010
· Chapter 105: Consultation with Manwë
I find that I rather agree with Aiwen; "Listening" to the author expounding on various esoteric details of the clothing of certain non-central characters while he puts the actual _action_ on hold is not necessarily interesting, and does not advance the story.
(Put that stuff in the footnotes, if you have to include it!)
My mind is mostly elsewhere this week: On the eARCs of _Mouse and Dragon_ (YUM!!! On ch. 20 now.) and _Threshold_ (which is probably going to be a lot of fun, _Boundary_ certainly was! Will start on that one after OoF and M&D) and the release of _Oath of Fealty_ , which is excellent, and which I was actually able to legally buy! Geographical restrictions suck - am I ever happy SoA doesn't have any of that crap!! *bemusedly finds herself standing on soapbox; discreetly steps down*
Author's reply
Soapbox, indeed! As far as my recollection goes, I don't think I've ever described the clothing of non-central characters, although, I will admit that my memory could very well be faulty in that regard. My apologies. I guess it's all those years in the SCA. *grin* I always describe the clothing for good purpose though, and not for gratuitous reasons (at least not to me). You're free to skip over such descriptions, of course.