Hmmmm... No daggers planted in any backs. Yet.
Galadhwen did _not_ make a good impression on me. Nor on Finrod or Glorfindel, to go by their little bit of fun...
Finrod’s wedding outfit should be a thing of glory since Morwen has twelve years to work on it ;-)
Author's reply
Galadhwen has her issues, that's for sure, but she is not without good qualities. We may even see them sometime in the future. *grin*
And, of course, Finrod's wedding outfit will be even more glorious because it will have been created by a loving friend rather than just one of the seamstresses in the employ of the royal family.
6336
· 21 December 2009
· Chapter 89: Table Talk
Reading this at 5.30a.m. and trying not to laugh out loud over Finrod and Glorfi's antics. I feel sorry for Galadhwen, she will have a long time to wait for her husband, he will not be reborn until she accepts his death.
Hope things go well for them in Kortirion tomorrow.
More please,
Lynda
Author's reply
They were pretty funny, weren't they? Yes, you do have to feel sorry for Galadhwen. Hopefully she will find healing eventually and be reunited with her husband. We will see just what happens to the Amanians when they go into Kortirion soon enough.
Sitara
· 16 December 2009
· Chapter 88: Lady Meril of Cormë Alalvëa
Unfortunately, I don’t know much about that part of HoME but what I knew is that Meril-i-Turinqi is a rather significant character which was left out when the Silmarillion was edited. I didn’t know she had also followed the Noldor into Exile, though. However, your version of Meril seems to be rather sharp-tongued and full of high spirits. “grin”. Also, I have to admit that I’m quite interested to meet Galadhwen. Perhaps there would be someone who’d hit the nail in the head, to say so, in regard to more than just one issue. “another grin”. I have to wait and see, I suppose. “sigh”
Concerning the discussion about the Mortals..I would agree with Finrod and Meril, but only to a certain degree. Galadhwen’s traits currently making the Eldar to raise their eyebrows are indeed common occurrence among Mortals, Arafinwë is right. As for the people of Numenor.. descendants of those who fought alongside Eldar and Ainur in the War of Wrath did end up instilling terror among the descendants of those who never defied Morgoth and, if I may add, didn’t have Maiarin blood flowing in their veins.
I liked much the depiction of the landscape, the green fields and the orchards. Although these aren't quite as fertile as on the mainland, I'm sure that the Tol Eresseans can appreciate what they have now. Waiting anxiously to meet Galadhwen,
Sitara
Author's reply
I don't know if Meril was left out or not, but she appears in the Book of Lost Tales and speaks of the Faring Forth of the Elves. I have perhaps bent canon a little in bringing her into the story but she is a significant figure on Tol Eressea as Tolkien first conceived it and I thought it would be fun to include her. As for Galadhwen, you will have to decide for yourself when you finally meet her. *grin*
Sunny
· 14 December 2009
· Chapter 88: Lady Meril of Cormë Alalvëa
I think it is fairly clear that there _is_ going to be what we call we might otherwise call ”Excitement” in Kortirion as well. And I’ll bet my new e-book reader that Galadhwen is going to be in the middle of it, and a source of at least part of it. The way the Progress has been triggering land mines left and right there is no reason to assume that they won’t finish their little trip with panache. And with Reborn along – none of whom have done anything “Rebornish” for several chapters now – when excitement ensue (or a butterfly beats its wings somewhere in Lórien) one or more of them is sure to add their own special touch to whatever is happening. I can only wonder if Kortirion is still going to be there when the Progress leaves... ;-)
*giggles* An Elf contracting chicken-pox?? An inventive lady indeed!!
Galadhwen ... Quite a warning Meril has: “If you turn your backs on her, expect to find a knife planted between your shoulder blades.” She was also the leader of the Council when Sador was kidnapped, and when the rest of the council was forced to step down, she somehow managed to retain her position. Makes me wonder just what sort of blackmail material she has squirreled away...
Author's reply
Hi, Sunny. We will see soon enough just what kind of excitement will ensue in Kortirion. Just remember, the universe never repeats itself, so you may be surprised at what happens. And whether Galadhwen is in the middle of it all remains to be seen. She may be the most visible 'opponent' but not necessarily the only one that the kings have to contend with.
6336
· 14 December 2009
· Chapter 88: Lady Meril of Cormë Alalvëa
Gledwhen must have a silver tongue if she could convince the people of Kortirion to let her remain on the Council, since she must have been in on the plan to raise the tarifs. She is deffinately one to be watched!
Yay, Finrod got to meet one of his Re-born friends. It must be so hard to start again from the beginning, I still think they should come with a guide to their care and feeding! Much the way babies should, but don't!
I hope Pelandur, Haldir and Throngorn do not have an 'adventure' on their way into Krotirion and that they make it back to Lady Maril's whith out any trouble! Just keep Haldir away from trees and you should be O.K.!
More please,
Lynda
Author's reply
Hi, Lynda. Yes, Galadhwen probably does have a silver tongue and lots of friends, which is why she managed not to be booted off the Council. At any rate, we will see her in the next chapter and you will have to judge for yourself what she is like.
Morwen's story is probably not unique for most of the Reborn, even those with loving families. There is such a gulf of understanding between those who died and those who probably never will. It is the Great Divide and it can never be crossed.
I am sure that Haldir, Pelendur and Thorongorn will arrive without mishap and Haldir and Pelendur will return to the estate with Gwilwileth without mishap as well.
Kitty
· 14 December 2009
· Chapter 88: Lady Meril of Cormë Alalvëa
Glad to see that Pelendur went with Haldir to meet Gwilwileth. These two seem to be on a good way. And it was great that Finrod got to meet Morwen and tell her about the tunic ;)
I have to say that I liked Meril a lot; the idea of an Elf with chickenpox was just hilarious! But after reading what she had to say about Galadhwen I am a bit worried. That doesn't sound good. Well, I thought from the beginning Kortirion will not be any more peaceful than the other stations of the progress so far ... would be too good to be true.
Author's reply
Haldir and Pelendur seem to be mending fences and I think they are finally beginning to be friends again, the first step towards renewing their father/son relationship. Gwilwileth will help there, I have no doubt.
I am glad you like Meril. She's a real character, isn't she? *grin* As for Galadhwen.... we will see.
Hel
· 13 December 2009
· Chapter 87: Preparing to Leave for Kortirion
This Lord Ithildor sounds like a very interesting person. I hope we will meet him someday and learn more about his motivations. I wonder what the reason for him helping the former slaves is. The motivation must be very strong for him investing so much in it.
As for the neutral territory, the best would be a place in the middle between Tol Eressëa and Aman. Maybe the Valar could rise a new island between the two as a place for the conference.
Author's reply
Perhaps someday we will have the opportunity to meet Lord Ithildor. He does sound interesting, doesn't he? And perhaps we will learn what drives him.
An interesting thought about where to hold the conference. I have to confess that I never thought of that. Thanks for the suggestion. Not sure if it will actually happen but it's nice to know what others think should be done. I get some good ideas from readers that way. Thanks for reviewing, Hel. I really appreciate it.
Kitty
· 13 December 2009
· Chapter 87: Preparing to Leave for Kortirion
This Lord Ithildor seens to be a very decent guy; I'd like to meet him one day. I wonder if he could be a former slave himself?
Glad to know Lasgalad is on his way to Lórien and to recovery! And it is fun to see how worried Sador was for Alassiel. At first I had thought she's interested in Glorfindel, but now I am beginning to wonder ;)
Hm ... do you think the warnings of the ring would be able to keep Ingwion out of trouble? I am sure it would *not* work for Finrod and Glorfindel, so will Ingwion be any different? Somehow I have my doubts.
Author's reply
I do not think Ithildor was a former slave but perhaps someone close to him had been. I am not really sure. Perhaps some day we will find out.
We will see how or if the relationship develops between Sador and Alassiel. I think the time they spent together watching over the elflings while Glorfindel and Finrod were 'out playing' may have brought them closer together than they normally would be.
As for the ring and Ingwion... only time will tell, but most likely it won't keep the ellon out of trouble, but at least the ring will warn him when he lands in it. *grin*
Parmalokwen
· 8 December 2009
· Chapter 87: Preparing to Leave for Kortirion
Oh yeah, Morcocáno will be sleeping on the sofa for a while. (Or Nelluin might, if she wants to make him feel REALLY guilty.) Whether his marriage survives at all, or collapses as Fëanor and Nerdanel's did, will depend on the obstinacy of his prejudice, and how deeply insulted she feels. I do worry that this may be the culmination of some long-standing tension--I can imagine a great deal of awkward behavior on his part, all originating from his efforts to pretend that his wife had never been captured.
I too am intrigued by Lord Ithildor's motivations.
How often does the "you're dead! I must be dead too!" scene happen in Aman and on Tol Eressëa? Probably on a regular basis. Sooner or later somebody is going to pick it up for a standup comedy routine...
There are several solutions to the problem of location: lottery, vote, a newly built central location, moving between cities on a scheduled rotation, or the middle of a mosquito-infested swamp like Washington, DC.
I agree with Finrod and Olwë that asking the Valar's advice on the location question should not be done lightly. Whatever the Valar say is likely to be taken by most people as a command, not as a suggestion (idiots like Morcocáno aside), and it would set a precedent of dependence which would undermine the very purpose of this Tol Eressëan self-government project. I also do not think it is the place of the Valar to interfere in anything but the most egregious injustices on Tol Eressëa (such as the case of the ex-slaves) and false claims of Valarin authority (Nandor at Iaun Araw), especially when they try to avoid interfering with most people's lives on the mainland.
Great chapter.
Author's reply
Hi, Parmalokwen. I think you hit the nail on the head with regard about asking the Valar's advice about the location of the council. Certainly anything they might 'suggest' will be seen as a command by many, and not just those of Tol Eressea. It's a sticky situation but hopefully it will be resolved to everyone's satisfaction.
Thank you for a great review. I really appreciate it.
ellie
· 7 December 2009
· Chapter 87: Preparing to Leave for Kortirion
I would like to know more about Lord Ithildor, too.
I think that Ingwion and Finrod working together could be a good thing indeed. I must admit I find it interesting that although Lindarion and Ingwion are Arafinwe's contemporaries and are indeed older than he is, they act younger than Arafinwe somehow and Finrod tends to outshine them in confidence and wordly knowledge and maturity. Is this a consequence of Arafinwe being a king and Finrod having been one? It is very curious.
Author's reply
I think that your analysis of Lindarion and Ingwion might be partly true, Ellie. Both are just the heir to the thrones without any real hope of ever achieving it, for I do not see either Ingwe or Olwe stepping down and that may be true of Arafinwe as well. So, they lack the experience of ruling that Arafinwe and Finrod both have and in both cases under adverse conditions.
6336
· 7 December 2009
· Chapter 87: Preparing to Leave for Kortirion
Well this one dots the 't's' and crosses the 'i's' very neatly.
Is Sador's interest in Alasiel to do with his concern about his sister or is he genuinely interested in her? Myself I think he is still a little young, emotionally and physically to be thinking of marriage.
Laurendil and Manwen and company are off to Lorien and the Progress is off to Kortirion.
Wonder what will happen to them there?
I know, I know wait for the next chapter!
You and the Muse do like cliffies!
Lynda
Author's reply
Whatever Sador's feelings towards Alassiel might be remains to be seen. Certainly he is quite young compared to Alassiel, who herself is considered young by Elvish standards having been born just before the War of Wrath.
As for Kortirion.... only time will tell. And cliffies is what keeps readers coming back, wanting to know more. *LOL*
Fantasia
· 7 December 2009
· Chapter 87: Preparing to Leave for Kortirion
Sorry Fiondil, I didn't sign off before sending the review, it was me the one review about Glorfindel and Alassiel.
Author's reply
No problem. Thanks for letting me know.
Anonymous
· 7 December 2009
· Chapter 87: Preparing to Leave for Kortirion
Great chapter, now I'm curious to know this Lord Ithildor. Do you have any story about him in your other ones?
I always thought that Alassiel and Glorfindel will be the ones that fall in love, never have Sador in mind, but it seems that you have other plans.
I really like everybody, but Glorfondel is still my favorite, I can wait for his reunion with Earendil and everybody reaction to the news of him going back.
You have stories of the people in Aman knowing about him for the elves that return to Valinor, those ones are the best for me. I'm sure that they were very worried for him and will tray to learn all that they can of his life in Middle-Earth.
Thank you, now to see what is waiting for them in Kortirion...
Author's reply
No, I do not have any story about Lord Ithildor at this time. Perhaps we will see him in a future story or even later in this one. I do not know at this time.
We will be seeing Glorfindel going on his quest for Earendil once the Progress ends, and with Kortirion being the last stop, that won't be too long. I am glad you like Glorfindel and that he is still your favorite. For me, it's a toss-up between him and Finrod.
Sunny
· 7 December 2009
· Chapter 87: Preparing to Leave for Kortirion
Nitpick: Ingwion's ruby did not glow when he first put it on, instead the stone turned dark. EI1 ch 87
Ithildor sounds like he is a worthwhile sort of fellow. It might be interesting to know the whys of his falling-out with Gil-Galad. Might that perhaps have had something to do with how former slaves were treated?
I wonder just who is going to make life ... interesting in Kortirion. In Tavrobel it was mainly the reborn. Here in Avallónë it was the locals. So will it be the turn of the Reborn again, or do you have somebody else waiting in the wings??
(I know: I must wait for the update...)
Author's reply
Oohh... I will have to change that then, won't I? *grin*
I have no idea what the falling out was between Ithildor and Gil-galad but I would not be surprised if it had to do something with the former slaves. If I ever do find out, perhaps I will have him tell his story.
And yes, you will just have to wait and see who causes trouble (if any) in Kortirion. Sorry.
Little Mouse
· 6 December 2009
· Chapter 86: Angobel
Hi. :)
I've been reading your stories for at least a year now, though I have not reviewed anything. I kept seeing your name mentioned by other authors I like, so I finally gave in and started reading. I've been hooked ever since, so I decided it was high time to come out of the shadows and let you know how much I thoroughly love and appreciate your stories. They are beautifully written and constantly making me think, especially challenging me to take a look at how I see the world around me in relation to my faith. Not to mention completely satisfying my love of Elves. :) Because your stories are so well written-intricate plots, vivid imagery, fully realized characters- you've become an inspiration to me as an author, and continually challenge me to work harder at my own writing. Thank you, and well done. I look forward to reading a lot more from you.
Author's reply
Hello, Little Mouse. Thank you so very much for your lovely words. I am so pleased that you found my stories and that you are 'hooked' on them. Part of the job of a writer, for me, is to make readers think and to see the world a little differently than before. This is certainly how Tolkien wrote and I take him as my inspiration (among other authors). I am glad that my writings have inspired you to work harder at your own writing. That is indeed high praise for any writer to receive, that they are an inspiration to others. Thank you again, and perhaps I will see a reveiw or two from you in the future.
Kitty
· 2 December 2009
· Chapter 86: Angobel
Um ... could I please borrow Manveru? He could get some practice with my mending!
Arafinwë's probably right about Morcocáno's punishment; at least that does make sense to me. He's not done enough to deserve a stint in Formenos, and losing his high position and bringing Avallónë into a less powerful situation would go a long way to make him think, I hope.
Really like Gurthalion. He's such a nice guy and deserves to find healing from his nightmares as much as possible. Though I think he's on a good way, with all the teasing he is doing; it shows he's not broken despite his terrible experiences.
Anyway, this whole visit went well, and I think it did something to convince the people of Angobel that the Kings are determined to help them. And that is what they need, as it gives them hope for the future - a better future.
Author's reply
What you say about Morcocano is true, Kitty. Sometimes the worse punishment anyone can receive is loss of power when they are used to wielding it.
Gurthalion is much stronger than most have given him credit for, I think, even Marthchall. I think he will do well in Lorien. And the people of Angobel now know that they have very powerful allies who will see that they are treated fairly and are not persecuted any longer. That knowledge will go a long way towards improving their self-esteem and giving them hope for the future.
Larner
· 1 December 2009
· Chapter 86: Angobel
At least this visit has been productive, and in more ways than one.
Author's reply
Indeed.
Parmalokwen
· 1 December 2009
· Chapter 86: Angobel
As someone who has had to retrieve arrows from the field behind a short range target many times, I do not share Manveru and Ingwion's confidence regarding the archers. No archer should ever aim an arrow in the direction of someone he or she is not willing to kill.
Unlike some of the other readers, I do not think that Irmo should establish a second garden on Tol Eressëa, not with the current political climate-- at this point, it would likely reinforce the idea that the Returnees are not welcome on the mainland. Instead, there should be a regular ferry service to the mainland and transportation available to those who need to go to Lórien. However, stationing a few healers who can deal with life-threatening poisoning cases from overseas at the Avallónë harbor would not go amiss.
I also think that Morcocáno should not be left to his own devices. He's not nearly as intelligent as he thinks he is, not if he ignored a warning from the Doomsayer and both Arsekickers, and he's got major problems with his view of the world and his place in it. I really think he will make more trouble if he thinks he can manage it, most likely after Arafinwë and Olwë leave Tol Eressëa.
Author's reply
About the archers... I don't think they were aiming to kill anyone, but in both cases the person hit moved in an unexpected direction, more or less into the path of the arrow which would have missed them otherwise.
I am sure that some sort of provision is provided for those in need of Lorien's services. After all, we have seen cases of others from Tol Eressea going to Lorien for healing, but it has so far been on an ad hoc basis. Perhaps a regular Lorien ferry would be a good idea.
Whether Morcocano is left to his own devices remains to be seen. I have no doubt the Valar are keeping a close watch on him and others. How much trouble he will cause in the future only time will tell.
Thanks for reviewing Parmalokwen. I appreciate you taking the time to do so.
ellie
· 30 November 2009
· Chapter 86: Angobel
i meant to say Ingwion not Ingwe in my comments earlier. it's difficult typing with a sleeping elfling obstructing the arms...
Author's reply
No problem, I figured out what you meant. I have trouble keeping some of the names straitght myself. Wrote half a chapter once using the wrong name beginning with 'I' and had to go back and correct it with the right name. A real bother! *grin*
ellie
· 30 November 2009
· Chapter 86: Angobel
It's good to see the father(in-law) / son relationship between olwe and finarfin brought out at least a little bit here. the repair job was cool.
the meeting of the former slave families with the amanians was interesting. I am very curious how the new ruling body of tol eressea will be formed. I womnder if the last leg of the trip will be eventful. We never have found those two Noldor from Aman who supposedly spread the rumors before. I wonder if they will finally appear now?
Also, is Ingwe going to get attacked finally? He sure has had it easy. couldn't you just rough him up a little bit so he has wounds to show off as well (olwe had wounded pride from the kidnapping and arafinwe had a shoulder wound though it was healed). Surely someon has got to be daring enough to take on the son of the High King?
i guess we'll just have to wait and see...
Author's reply
Hi ellie. Ingwion getting roughed up? Hmmm.... that might not sit too well with Atto and then the Tol Eresseans will have more trouble than they can handle. If they think having the Valar breathing down their necks is a bad thing, they've never seen Ingwe in a temper. *LOL* At any rate, we will see what, if anything, happens in Kortirion once they get there. As for the two rumormongers, I am sure they are long gone and we may never know who they were or who sent them.
Sunny
· 30 November 2009
· Chapter 86: Angobel
Maiar can evidently be handy to have around – even outside their own specialties :-)
If Martchall is such a skilled toymaker as Gurthalion indicates, perhaps he might be able to turn his hobby into another source of income for Angrobel.
I don’t think the feisty Meluiwen is going to let her prey escape her. Especially not with Gurthalion aiding in her hunt ;-)
I think the Amanians enjoyed the meal with the people of Angrobel a lot more than the oh-so-posh gathering hosted by Morcocáno. Speaking of whom – his actions will have stained his reputation and ruined his political aspirations for a long time. But he is evidently a very capable fellow, yet I suspect with certain ... problems ... that should be addressed. I have suggested that Nienna might invite him to stay at her place for a while – but just who gets to straighten him out is less important than the job getting done. He might be able to straighten himself out – yet if his attitudes starts to fester, he might start working on his agenda in a more shadowy manner – like manipulating others into doing his dirty work for him. (Like Ingoldo!!)
Whatever the government of Tol Eressëa is going to end up being, I suspect that the situation in Avallonë will end up being watched rather carefully for a while.
Author's reply
Hmmm... Marthchall setting up a branch of Dale Toys on Tol Eressea... now there's a thought. *LOL* I am sure Meluiwen will eventually get her ellon and Gurthalion and the other miners will help her.
Morcocano's case is still iffy. Not sure what he will do or what will be done about him as yet. Nothing concrete has been decided by anyone, but I think you are correct that the situation in Avallone will be watched very carefully, not only by the Amanian kings but by the Valar as well. Only time and the Muse will tell.
6336
· 30 November 2009
· Chapter 86: Angobel
Something tells me that Gurthalion is one smart ellon and that his childlike attitude is a coping mechanisim, so maybe Laurendil is right and it will take only a few weeks to teach him how to control his nightmares.
Liked Manvaru's trick with the tunic, saves having to carry a mending kit with you!
I feel sorry for Morocano, hope the people of Avallone are not too hard on him, he still has a lot of issues to work through. Maybe Irmo should think about setting up a branch Lorien on Tol Eressea!?
More please,
Lynda
Author's reply
You're not the first to suggest Irmo opening up a branch of Lorien on Tol Eressea, Lynda. *LOL* At any rate, I think you may be right about Gurthalion using his childlike attitude as a coping mechanism. As Laurendil pointed out, he has a very strong spirit and that is why he did not fade or die in spite of what was done to him. Not sure what will happen to Morcocano after this, but certainly he does have issues to work through. We will have to wait and see what develops.
Agape4Gondor
· 24 November 2009
· Chapter 79: Reaction
I have to laugh - when I wrote the review for the last chapter... I somehow was under the impression that was day 2...
Good grief - this has been a long and trying day for everyone... My heart went out to all involved, but I am now becoming 'accustomed' to the 'frailty' of the Reborn... Poor Sador...
Well - reading onward.... hoping to catch up before the new year! Giggles...
Author's reply
So much was happening with everyone that I had to split the chapter into two or it would have been way too long. Sador will recover soon enough. He is surrounded by people who love and care for him and will help him.
Agape4Gondor
· 24 November 2009
· Chapter 78: Iaun Araw
Another great and haunting chapter... so many things that laid a foundation for .... not even sure what to call it. Too much heartache.
Loved the last 2 chapters of the 1st day in Avallone too!
Author's reply
Glad you are enjoying these chapters, Agape. Thanks for letting me know.
Kaylee Arafinwiel
· 24 November 2009
· Chapter 85: On the Way to Angobel
Atar Fiondil,
Well, now that I've finally taken both my finals for this month and passed them (Vocabulary 100 percent, lecture test 87 percent) I have been able to read this properly and can now review it. As usual I find the language gaffes hysterical *grin*
However that's probably the only thing about the chapter that had me laughing. Most of it had me screaming and shrieking in rage at the would be kinslayers. As someone said earlier, KKK shades...eek!
Morcocano really needs to be taught a lesson in humility. *looks for Namo, Irmo and Nienna, thinking all three siblings ought to have a private chat with this one, he's more stubborn than Glorfi and Finda put together and in a totally NOT GOOD WAY.
I hope the Angobel situation can be resolved peacefully and Morcocano will learn his lesson which is DO NOT MESS WITH FINDA'S PEOPLE OR ELSE.
Tye-melin,
Kaylee!
Author's reply
Congrats on passing your exams, Kaylee. Well done! Glad you liked the language gaffe. I think you are the only one to mention it and I spent some time researching Sindarin terms that would plausibly be confused by someone still learning the language if they sounded somewhat similar.
We will see how the Angobel situation is resolved soon enough. Thanks for reviewing. Tye-melin.