ellie
· 3 March 2010
· Chapter 101: Old Acquaintances
I'm glad he has met up with others who he knew and loved in Gondolin. I wonder though at these warriors being called to Earendil to train for the Dagor. It seems kind of early to train, but then again, maybe not. They do have to stay sharp and who knows what they will face in the Dagor Dag. I wonder who will do the actual training of these warriors?
Curious chapter. Looking forward to more!
Author's reply
Well, you may recall (or perhaps not) that when Glorfindel was in Vanyamar, he discovered the training salles and was told that Ingwë had instituted the training (or continued training) of warriors after the War of Wrath in preparation for the Dagor Dagorath. Since even the Valar do not know just when that will occur then it behooves the elves to always be in a state of readiness. I get the feeling that those who are congregating around Eärendil are meant to be an elite fighting group, perhaps because, unlike the other kingdoms in Beleriand, Gondolin and Doriath never joined the Fëanorians in any of the battles against Melkor (Gondolin only did so once). It was only in the War of Wrath that any of them actually did join with the rest of the elves of Beleriand as well as the Edain in fighting and they had no choice in the matter, not like before. It may be that the Valar feel that those from Gondolin and Doriath should be given an opportunity to 'redeem' themselves by being in the forefront of the upcoming final battle.
At any rate, I suspect that one reason for Glorfindel's training with the Maiar is to help them with the training of these warriors, in a way, to be a visible example of what they can achieve as elves with the proper training.
Hel
· 3 March 2010
· Chapter 101: Old Acquaintances
So the Valar have stationed Mánatamir there to keep curious onlooker away.
I wonder why the elves around Elwind and Earendil need Glorfindel or Ecthelion to train. The Valar could send Maia for that. And Glordindel is still angry the the Valar meddled with his mind and his life.
But I´m happy that has met some old friends and didn´t end as cat-fodder.
Author's reply
Well, as it was pointed out, Glorfindel and Ecthelion were the only ones to have killed balrogs and I think the elves were being trained by Maiar but they were also eagerly waiting for at least one of the two balrog-slayers to join them in the next stage of their training which would intensify.
Tari
· 3 March 2010
· Chapter 101: Old Acquaintances
So may questions fill Glorfindel's mind. Having to wait for the answers to appear is really taxing the poor ellon. What even the reasons, they are only for the good of all.
Author's reply
It can be taxing waiting for answers, but hopefully when they come he will be ready to accept them.
6336
· 2 March 2010
· Chapter 101: Old Acquaintances
Hm, yes, Glorfindel has been having a rather dificult time with the Valar lately, they still seem to be able to get him to do what he needs to do though.
I am not surprised that the Valar have a guard on Earendil and Elwing, curiosity seekers not being the least of their worries.
So Glorfy gets to meet some old friends, I have a feeling he misses Ecthelion just as much as he missed Finrod.
Hope he feels better soon, he is such a bad patient, I think the healers must be glad to get him off their hands.
More please,
Lynda
Author's reply
That's true, Lynda. Whatever his complaints about the Valar, Glorfindel does seem to do whatever they need him to do when they need him to do it.
Glorfindel doesn't talk about Ecthelion too much, but yes, he misses his best friend in Gondolin terribly, but knows that he will be released from Mandos when the time is right and not before. And now he has all his other old friends with him and that will help.
6336
· 2 March 2010
· Chapter 100: Eärendil
Finally! Earendil! Yay!!!
What a way to meet him though, almost chewed up by Great Cats and in the arms of a Maia! Shakes head, Glorfi, Glorfy, Glorfy what are we to do with you. Oh well, alls well that ends well!
You get to ride in Vingilot again, but this time for real, wow!
Hm, mybe Namo should look in to that, 'Faer waiting', insted of call waiting, it would certainly help during the busy times, he could park excess fear there until he has time to deal with them, probably the more bothersome ones, a few kings and the odd prince come to mind!
I never knew Earendil was fair, I always had this impression of him as being dark haired, maybe because Elrond was dark and he was supposed to look like his father. Elrond and Elros must take after their mother in their colouring.
Now to see what comes after Glorfy wakes up from his nap, which sounds like a good idea to me, maybe I will go and take one too!
Lynda
Author's reply
All's well that ends well, indeed, Lynda!
I'm sure Námo has some sort of system set up for busy times, maybe a sort of triage with the more difficult cases (like Glorfindel) being put on hold until last *grin*. However, since time itself does not seem to act the same way in Mandos as in the rest of Arda, it hardly matters.
I always thought Eärendil was dark too until a friend pointed out some passages in the Silmarillion and in HoME that indicated that Eärendil was fair. I think we are easily fooled into thinking otherwise because, as you say, Elrond (and presumably Elros) is described as dark-haired.
6336
· 2 March 2010
· Chapter 99: Death on Four Feet
Honestly Glorfy, you have got to start paying attention! The Valar have given you the ability to sense evil and you seem to ignore it every time your radar goes off and get creamed by whatever it is! What good are you going to be when you go back to M.E. and start watching over Earendil's boys? Just be glad the snow has ended and you can see them coming!
What a time to have a flashback, it was good that Manaatmir was there for you, both to rescue and listen to the story. You still havn't got over the Helecarexe, I don't think you ever will.
Oh well now to find out what you have done to yourself this time!
Lynda
Author's reply
Glorfindel is still getting used to his new-found (or rather, newly enhanced) skills. I'm sure with practice he'll get better at paying attention to that inner voice. Flashbacks never come at a convenient time, unfortunately. And I don't think anyone could ever get over an experience such as the Helcaraxë.
Kitty
· 2 March 2010
· Chapter 101: Old Acquaintances
Well, our dear Glorfindel isn't in the mood for niceties, that much is obvious. But considering all the meddling he has experienced by the Valar, I can't really blame him.
*lol* Trust Glorfindel to bring up the three bottles of wine as soon as he sees Galdor again!
"I imagine it was a way of keeping me out of trouble and out of certain people’s hair for a while." Now that's a way to put it *grin*
Now that's intriguing - they have waited for Glorfindel to start their training? I guess Glorfindel's stay in the tower will be an interesting time and he will not be bored.
Author's reply
No, I don't think Glorfindel will be bored there. Eärendil and the others, including the Maiar, will see to that. *grin*
Glorfindel, of course, has a history with the Valar that isn't exactly cordial, but I think much of his grousing is due to the circumstances, his injuries and the pain. That's sure to make anyone a little testy and feeling put upon by the Powers That Be.
Kitty
· 2 March 2010
· Chapter 100: Eärendil
*snicker* Love Glorfindel's thoughts about being in Mandos and Námo putting it off to deal with him :D
Hm ... so Glorfindel's companion *was* a Maia. Why am I not surprised? And he still allowed poor Glorfi to be injured again!
Oh, he has found Eärendil! Finally! *does a happy dance* I'm really glad he is not only safe now, but has found the tower, too. Now I look forward to know how that visit will turn out.
Author's reply
I thought that was funny myself, Glorfindel believing himself to be dead and wondering why he wasn't being Judged immediately like before. *grin*
And now he has found Eärendil, or rather, Eärendil has found him. We'll see soon enough how his visit turns out.
Kitty
· 2 March 2010
· Chapter 99: Death on Four Feet
I think I have to repeat what I said in my review to the last chapter about Glorfindel not being allowed a smooth journey. When these tracks were mentioned the first time, I had been wondering if there could be some of these evil creatures Oromë is still hunting, but didn't want to get so paranoid. Seems I wasn't so far away from the truth now.
Hm ... should I be a bit suspicious of the identity of Mánatamir as well?
Anyway, so far they did a great job in defending themselves, though I don't like the end of the chapter very much. *runs off to read the next chapter - *one* advantage of catching up is that I don't have to live with these cliffhangers for a whole week ;-)*
Author's reply
I think you're the first person to link the tracks Glorfindel found earlier to the creatures that Oromë went hunting, Kitty. At least, the first to say so. Glorfindel never got a chance to examine their spoors the first time so never made the connection between the creatures he saw being killed by the Maiar and the tracks he found on the way to find Eärendil and Elwing.
As for Mánatamir....
Kitty
· 2 March 2010
· Chapter 98: Snowstorm
You certainly made sure Glorfindel will not have a smooth journey, did you? A snowstorm in the summer and on top of it another nasty memory back ... luckily he was not alone; under these conditions it could have ended badly. Though I have do admit, I am wondering if that snowstorm was entirely natural *thinks back to a certain snowstorm on Taniquetil*
Author's reply
Hey! What's a quest without some obstacles along the way? *LOL* And while we think that a snowstorm in summer is odd, it isn't when you are far enough north (or south). I remember being in Scotland in August and it was snowing in the Highlands.
Yes, that was a nasty memory and a nasty time for it to surface, so it is a good thing Glorfindel was not alone. As to whether the snowstorm was natural or not.... who can really say? *grin*
njomo
· 1 March 2010
· Chapter 101: Old Acquaintances
Hi Fiondil,
Old acquaintances for sure! I'm glad to see you include Galdor and Legolas, the use of both of which may engender some questions, but which to me seem entirely appropriate. And it seems only right that Glorfindel is finally surrounded by old friends such as these, after watching Finrod collect such at every turn he made!
I was thinking as I read this chapter that on the one hand I might like Glorfindel to be a bit less....irrascible...but on the other hand that's what makes him a more believable character. And under the circumstances we find him in at the beginning of this chapter, his irritation is understandable, as is the bitterness he feels over the seeming interference of the Valar. One could--almost--feel sorry for Mánatamir when he comes under fire from Glorfindel.
So I wonder what you have in store for us in the next chapter. More training, that's for sure. One wonders if Eärendil might be able to find a solution to Glorfindel's not being able to see Gil-Estel...but seriously I'll just let the story come as it will. Can't wait to see where the story goes from here!
Thanks Fiondil.
Joanne
Author's reply
Hi, Joanne. Well, Tolkien does say somewhere in HoME that Legolas Greenleaf of Gondolin is not the same as Legolas of Mirkwood and that the former resided on Tol Eressëa. I have him moving to where Eärendil and Elwing live for purposes of my own. And Galdor is a rather common name in Sindarin. In the Silmarillion, the name is also that of a Mortal, the father of Húrin and Huor, so it is likely that there was more than one Elf with that name.
Glorfindel certainly has a history with the Valar and Maiar and he's still young enough emotionally to strike out at those who are innocent, such as Mánatamir, who was only doing his job, as it were. I think as he matures he will be less irrascible and more accepting of things as they are and not as he would like them to be. Something we all should strive for.
What the next chapter brings remains to be seen, and I am glad you are looking forward to seeing hohw the story unfolds. Thanks for reading and reviewing, Joanne. I really appreciate it.
Tari
· 1 March 2010
· Chapter 100: Eärendil
I just knew there was something more to Mánatamir than what had been presented, but, I did not guess that he would be a Maia. Glorfindel has found that which he was seeking. Awesome. I would not be surprised to find that he was tempted to stay there. Who wouldn't want to.
Author's reply
Well, I know some readers were thinking Mánatamir was a Maia or possibly one of the Valar, but obviously not everyone, so don't feel bad, Tari. Glorfindel did indeed find Eärendil (or more correctly, Eärendil found him) but whether he's actually found what he was seeking remains unclear. I'm sure he would like to stick around for a while and renew his acquaintance with Eärendil after going to all the trouble of getting there. *grin*
Kitty
· 28 February 2010
· Chapter 97: Companions on the Road
“Do you not think it strange that those working on the Tower were brought blindfolded to the site, that Maiar had to guide them in? Something tells me that there is more to it than a simple wish for privacy on Eärendil and Elwing’s part.” That's true. I still find the whole thing a bit odd, as the tower is so far removed from 'civilisation' that they'd not have to deal with many visitors anyway. Really look forward to find out more.
Author's reply
We'll find out eventually what up with all the secrecy. With the Valar there's always a reason even if we don't think it's a good one. *grin*
Kitty
· 28 February 2010
· Chapter 96: The Quest Begins
Poor Glorfindel. Seasickness must be very uncomfortable, and I am glad that I so far never had the misfortune to experience it myself.
Admittedly I am glad Glorfindel is not alone any longer, even if he doesn't know Mánatamir. But he seems to be a good guy, and with all the trouble following Glorfindel around, a friend at his side could be useful.
Author's reply
I've never suffered from seasickness myself but I know others who have and it's no fun. And it's a good thing that Glorfindel has a companion by his side. His road is very dangerous and he can use a friend.
Kitty
· 28 February 2010
· Chapter 95: Glorfindel in Alqualondë
Now that's really a surprise that the Elves built the tower and still don't know where it is. Someone overdid it with secrecy ...
Well, at least Glorfindel has some hints, and knowing how stubborn our favourite balrog-slayer is, I have no doubt he will succeed in the end.
Author's reply
Probably, though no doubt the Valar had their reasons for it. And Glorfindel is nothing if not persistent. I'm sure he'll succeed in the end as well.
eiluj
· 26 February 2010
· Chapter 100: Eärendil
Now *that* was an unexpected way to find Eärendil.
I'd been suspecting Mánatamir was a Maia also: his appearance in that dangerous land was altogether too fortuitous, and then there was your formal Clue about Tilion. Yeah, easy to say that now when I wasn't reviewing to register a prediction before it happened ...
... so here goes with the next one: I am expecting Glorfindel to meet at least one unexpected person among the local residents. Not going to say who I think it is, because I'm probably wrong as always....
“Well, it’s a good thing I came when I did, else I think you would have had a lot of explaining to do to Lord Manwë and Lord Námo” -- Yes, and why *did* Eärendil show up when he did?
Interesting that Aerandir, Falathar and Erellont are there -- not to mention the other settlers.
If I'm remembering correctly, Glorfindel doesn't know who Eluréd and Elurín were related to. I suppose it's possible Elwing might mention them by name....
Author's reply
Yes, indeed, eiluj! And next chapter we'll see just who Glorfindel meets and then you can see if you were correct in your guesses or not. And you are correct that Glorfindel would not know that Eluréd and Elurín were Elwing's brothers. I'm sure Elwing or someone will say something and Glorfindel will realize who his little playmates were. It should be an interesting scene but we won't see it immediately.
As for why Eärendil showed up when he did... no doubt he was 'told' to by Someone. Or Mänatamir sent him an SOS via ósanwë.
Larner
· 26 February 2010
· Chapter 100: Eärendil
Indeed, I DID have reason to feel smug! And he has achieved his goal at last, and now waits to learn his new assignment. Now, to bring the love of his parents to Elrond and Elrond's family!
Author's reply
Well, as to all of that, that may be a bit premature. There is still much Glorfindel must accomplish before he is given, as you say, his assignment. All in good time, though. There is still much more of this tale to tell.
Sunny
· 26 February 2010
· Chapter 100: Eärendil
So Mánatamir was a Maia!
Elwing's “We have waited a long time for thy coming” makes me wonder just what they were waiting for. It might of course have been simply for an old friend to be released from Mandos. but we know that Glorfindel is going back to Middle-Earth, so methinks there is something more afoot here...
Author's reply
I am sure Glorfindel (and we) will learn what Elwing meant soon enough. *grin*
Kaylee Arafinwiel
· 26 February 2010
· Chapter 100: Eärendil
Earendil! It's Earendil, they found him! Well, Matanamir knew where Earendil was all along...and he's a Maia! Manwe's Maia! I should have known...I figured after a while he was a Maia but I thought maybe he was Orome's servant, since he had a hound following him and I suppose I was just used to the idea of Orome and his hunting dogs. *grin*
And there's Elwing, too! And Earendil's companions...I think they were Elves too and it's wonderful that they came back to stay with him.
Also, the 'argument' over whose ship it was...that was awesome. :D Well, Atar borrowed it...*giggles* I love that. Does Earendil know just /what/ Iluvatar planned to do with his ship that time? Did he hear about what his "Glorfi" got up to?
If he hadn't heard the story, I hope he does now!!! I'm so sorry for not reviewing lately but as you said before Atar Fiondil, school comes first. Rest assured I've read every single chapter of all your stories though!
Tye-melin, Atar indonyo!
Kaylee
Author's reply
Hi, Kaylee. I'm glad you are remembering my advice that school comes first. Good job! I'm glad you are still reading when you can and whenever you can leave a review is fine too.
I'm glad you thought the argument over whose ship it was was awesome. I just sort of thought it funny myself. *grin*
We'll learn a bit more about Mánatamir and his relationship with Eärendil and Elwing (and Manwë) in subsequent chapters.
Thanks for reviewing, Kaylee. I appreciate it.
Siiw
· 25 February 2010
· Chapter 99: Death on Four Feet
What a way to end a chapter! It is good that we will only have to wait one more day for the next. 8D
That Manatamir, i have had a feeling that he was Eärendil's son through the previous chapters. Now i don't know what to think anymore. This story has become so thrilling, i meant to read this before sleep last night but it wasn't exactly calming. In a good way, of course,
Author's reply
Mánatamir as Eärendil's son! What an interesting idea and quite original. Who he really is, of course, remains to be seen. I am glad you are finding this story so thrilling. I greatly appreciate you letting me know, Siiw. Thanks.
Tari
· 24 February 2010
· Chapter 99: Death on Four Feet
Does Glorfindel really think the Valar would let these creatures kill them? Not happening. I can't wait to find out how they are rescued.
Author's reply
Well, he has no guarantees, does he? *grin* We'll find out how it all comes out on Friday when I post the next chapter. Stay tuned.
ellie
· 24 February 2010
· Chapter 99: Death on Four Feet
Exactly what is his friend, I wonder? very curious behavior from him. evil cliffy you have left us with. Glorfy needs to learn how to interpret his spidy sense when it is tingling. he should have stayed in training until he had that part down. At least it is warning him and he is listening to it. I hope glorfy wasn't hurt.
Author's reply
I know many readers have their suspicions as to who Mánatamir is and some of their guesses are pretty near the mark. Next chapter will reveal all. Glorfindel probably should have stayed in training with the Maiar but circumstances being what they are.... at any rate, I'm sure he will insist on more 'spidy sense' training in the future. *grin* I'm glad you got a chance to read and review, Ellie. I know how hectic life has been for you lately. Thanks.
njomo
· 23 February 2010
· Chapter 99: Death on Four Feet
And the plot thickens. It's hard to be patient, but some wishes do come true. Two updates in a week!
Maybe now Glorfindel will know to pay attention when he gets even a slight intimation of something not right. But at least he was forwarned soon enough--at least in time to raise a defense. Can't wait to find out what actually happened at the end, and yes, to find out the scoop on Mánatamir.
Thanks Fiondil. I'm still enjoying EI2 even though I haven't been able to review as often as I'd like.
Joanne
Author's reply
That's okay, Joanne. I know how real life can get in the way of having fun. *grin* I'm glad to know that you are still reading and enjoying this story. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it. I think Glorfindel will start paying more attention to his feelings from now on. This particular skill is still rather new to him so it'll take a while for it to sink in. And yes, we will indeed find out the scoop on Mánatamir with the next chapter. *grin*
Tari
· 23 February 2010
· Chapter 98: Snowstorm
It's interesting that snow storms should occur in the off season; shades of the Valar I think. Of course, look at the strange weather we are experiencing in America.
really glad Glorfindel had someone with him. Had he not, the flashback might have resulted in him freezing to death. That would have made me a very unhappy reader.
Author's reply
It depends on where you are as far a weather is concerned, Tari. Glorfindel and Mánatamir are far enough north that snow in August would not be unusual though granted a blizzard would be so who knows. Snow bands, such as that described in the story, actually exist. I live in an area of the country where it could be white-out conditions in one area and absolutely clear in another and only a few hundred feet separate the two areas from one another. It literally feels as if one is moving into or out of a wall of snow.
Sunny
· 23 February 2010
· Chapter 99: Death on Four Feet
Mánatamir is evidently not an Elf after all. Though I wonder what Glorfindel's reactions to that is going to be in the next chapter. I suspect he is getting a bit tired of not goineg anywhere without a bevy of babysitters!
Author's reply
Evidently. *grin* But just who and what Mánatamir is still remains to be seen. I'm sure Glorfindel is getting a bit tired of his minders as well, but in this case, it's just as well he had one, don't you think?