Elf, Interrupted: Book Two: Glorfindel's Quest by Fiondil
6336 · 7 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa
Eru, Glorfindel hasn't been on Tol Eressea five minuites and already he is causing problems! Maybe he is helping to fix one, with Glorfi, who knows?! More please, Lynda
Author's reply
Well, I'm not sure if he's really causing trouble. You'll have to wait and see with the next chapter and just for yourself. *grin*
njomo · 7 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa
Hi Fiondil, Action or no, I'm enjoying every word! I thought that Glorfindel and his otornor might see some things that would be eye-opening on this trip, and I see I was not wrong. That's what makes this so fun-we're just along for the ride with everyone else, kings and all. So no worries. I'm sure the action will come only too soon. Yes, I think Glorfindel has learned a great deal recently and is not so impetuous as he had been, and as you say, he has a purpose in mind. Let's just hope his "hunting" trip with Sador does not go awry. Hopefully they've just met someone or something interesting on their way. One small note: while Glorfindel and Sador are off hunting, Sador has a line in the discussion back at the camp: Sador nodded. "I remember it was difficult to find any to speak to when I was here." I enjoyed all the interaction involving security measures at the camp. I think Finrod and company have the right of it. Best to be prepared for the worst even if it never happens. And some of the things he was checking on aren't things we always think about under security-as in checking that the water was potable and that there were no noxious plants about. Very important. As always, looking forward to the next installment, hanging onto the edge of my seat and hoping I don't fall off before next week comes! Joanne
Author's reply
Oh, thank you so much, Joanne, for finding that error. Can't imagine how both my beta and I missed it. I've sinced changed it so that it's Arafinwë speaking about what Sador said to him and then giving the next line to Olwë. I really rely on attentive readers to point out things that I miss. I'm glad you caught this early on. Anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. I know some readers don't like 'talky' chapters, but sometimes you need them to provide the necessary background and to set up the action in later chapters so it all makes sense. We'll see just what Glorfindel and sador get themselves into in the next chapter. There is a bit of an 'incident' with them and some locals in the next chapter that should please people. *grin* The Amaneldi are not used to thinking in terms of 'security' in the way Finrod, et al. are. They haven't had the experiences that Finrod and the other Reborn have had or those of Tol Eressëa, so it's natural for someone like Lindarion to consider their tactics overkill and highly inconvenient. But I think in time they will see the wisdom of their precautions. Thanks again for pointing out the gaffe and thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.
Kitty · 7 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa
So now the fun is about to begin! :) And I don't care if Pelendur doesn't agree with me *eg* Really sad that these watchtowers are necessary at all, but as the saying goes, better safe than sorry. We don't want another surprise attack, after all. But I was a bit surprised that Glorfindel didn't say anything when Eärendil was mentioned ;) Hm, I think I like Lindarion. Seems to be a nice ellon. Some people might think these security precautions a bit of overkill, but after all that happened so far, I tend to agree with Finrod and the others. You never know. And we're now on Tol Eressëa, after all, where some hostility is to be expected, if Sador's experiences are anything to go by. Good summary of the problems they are going to face. I look forward to see which solution they will come up with. And now you have made me a bit worried. What are Glorfindel and Sador doing? *eyes your muse suspiciously* They might only be slowed down by transporting whatever game they have found, but knowing you, I don't hold my breath too much on that.
Author's reply
Yes, indeed, Kitty. The fun is about to begin. The watchtowers and the reason for their existence is taken directly from the Silmarillion [Chapter 11, "Of the Sun and Moon and the Hidiing of Valinor"}, so they are not an invention of mine (alas!). I think Glorfindel is keeping his thoughts about Eärendil (now that he can actually think about him) to himself. He has a plan, and he's gathering as much information about Eärendil as he can without evoking anyone's suspicions, including the Valar's. I'm glad you like Lindarion. He's suffered much grief but he is his father's son and follows Olwë's lead in all things, recognizing that what is past is past and they must all look to the future instead of dwelling on old griefs and thoughts of revenge against those who have wronged them. We will see just what Glorfindel and Sador are up to in the next chapter. There will not be too much action in the next few chapters, mostly talk, but it will be necessary in order to set up the situations that will arise later on in the Progress. Hopefully, readers won't be too bored by it.
Sitara · 2 June 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans
"Finrod reached over and put a hand under his chin, forcing him to look up. "You were a kinslayer," he said, "but that is not what you are now. Now you are Reborn and that is all that matters." " I believe this is the reason for so many people from the people who rewieved earlier wanted to see Celepharn among the warriors sent by Irmo. Quoting loosely someone's election cry (if you would allow me "smile"), I would say about the former warrior of Tyelkormo: "Yes, it's possible. He did it." And this should be a lesson even for some self-righteous people, were they Noldor who stayed behind or Teleri. Celepharn is interesting mainly because of what he represents, in my opinion. Irmo is up to something and I'd like to find out exactly what will happen, since lately I'm wary of canon Irmo. At least, Finrod and Glorfindel had some happy moments and they would support the rest of the Reborn along the way. It remains to be seen whether their assumptions regarding the purpose of the ones selected to be their companions are correct or not. Especially regarding Earnur, presumably selected to appease the circumspection or hostility of the Teleri, for whom I personally would be more than happy to point out the other side of the coin, just in case they've forgotten. (I have yet to confirm some canon information and then I'm so going to burst some bubbles..."evil grin" End of rant) As for Finarfin..I shall refrain for now from voicing my opinion. I'll say only that my opinion has changed quite a bit lately. Another interesting chapter, Fiondil, and , from my point of view, an "appetizer" for what would come next. What would be that, I wonder?
Author's reply
Hi, Sitara. I suspect you are correct about why so many other readers wanted to see Celepharn in the Progress. He is a microcosm of those Reborn who were not necessarily 'noble' in their actions, such as being involved in any of the three Kinslayings. Yet they and everyone else need to deal with it and realize that things are different now. We will actually see in a later chapter how Olwë interacts with Celepharn, knowing the ellon's history. Irmo (like all the Valar) is always up to something. *lol* What exactly he's up to, though, remains to be seen. As for Finarfin... my opinion has changed quite a bit lately. Positvely or negatively? *grin* Anyway, yes, these last few chapters have been 'appetizers' for what will come next, setting up the situation, so to speak. And truth to tell, even I don't know exactly what is going to happen... yet. Glad you found the chapter interesting, Sitara. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it.
Hel · 1 June 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans
So Irmo has send two of Finrods old companions as guardians (no wonder Finrod was shocked). And he told the four not to wear warrior braids. Glorfindel is right that they will be underestimated by others. Even if they are not taken as Noldorin guards, they can still say that they are Reborn who search for relatives. Still it will be interesting to see the reason behind Irmo´s instructions. If the elves of Middle-Earth one day move to the lands south of the Pelory, the Valar should maybe let some of the dark creature there alive, in the case that some elves get bored or feel homesick. But I like the bit about Manwen and Laurendil. I hope someday you tell us how they met. Very sensible of her to take along a well-sorted store of medical supplies. As Glorfindel accompanies them...
Author's reply
Hi Hel. I'm sure that not all the evil creatures that live in the southern regions of Valinor will be eradicated, so the elves who move there will have plenty of practice in fighting them. Still, it makes sense to cleanse the immediate areas south of the Pelóri so that families can safely come and build their communities. No one is likely to bring elflings into an area fraught with dangers. It looks as if everyone so far is interested in the story of Laurendil and Manwen's courtship. Perhaps they will tell me about it soon and I can let everyone else know either here or in a separate story. We'll see. Thanks for reviewing, Hel. I greatly appreciate it.
Tari · 1 June 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans
It takes a full century to reach emotional maturity! That sounds like so long. Since there are mortals who never reach that point, it seems to me that some of the elves so suffer the same fate. Of course, being totally mature is not all it’s cut out to be. It’s much more fun to keep a bit of one’s childhood intact, otherwise we would become entirely too serious and probably a bit boring.
Author's reply
Very true, Tari. And the "full century" is more a ball-park figure and speaks more for those who died as elflings and so must 'grow up' once they are re-embodied than it does for those who died (more or less) as adults. For them the time frame is probably shorter depending on their own emotional make-up at the time of death. And if you are an Elf, a century is really not that long when you consider how long one's lifespan will actually be in the end.
Ellie · 1 June 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans
I agree with the other reviewers on this chapter. I want to see a story on how L and M met and I also like your portrayal of arafinwe and his dealings with the Reborn. I'm glad that they all accept the former feanorean in spite of his past. I can't wait to see how he handles himself in the Progress. eagerly looking forward to the next chapter! This is such a great story!
Author's reply
Well, Ellie, we may yet learn of how Laurendil and Manwen met, either somewhere in this story or elsewhere. I'm rather curious myself. *grin* I'm glad you like my portrayal of Arafinwë and how he deals with the Reborn. Finrod and the other Reborn have no reason not to accept Celepharn, for they all have one thing in common... they've all died and have all passed through Judgment. As Finrod says, Celepharn, no less than the others, is Reborn and that is all that matters now. And thank you so much, Ellie. I'm delighted to know that you think this is a great story. Thank you for letting me know. I really appreciate it.
Imhiriel · 31 May 2009 · Chapter 29: Afterwards
I was really touched by Finrod's explation of why he signed the letter at all (and what a very good question by Olwë!). It really helps to fleshen out the character further with the weight of his background. Interesting fact about who the Elves in the audience were. Devious, indeed. while Findaráto must endure his anamillë’s sharp tongue and sharper wit. Haha. Regarding what I said in the previous chapter review, the discussion about whether Glorfindel and Finrod feel punished enough confirms my complaints (if you can call them so). Of course they acted wrongly, but they somehow cringe in expectation of the "wrath of the Valar". I'm rather glad, therefore, that Námo spiked that idea in this particular instance. You are an enigma wrapped up in a mystery This line seems familiar to me - is it by chance a quote from somewhere? “Why do you have to do anything with me?” Glorfindel asked, looking mulish. “Why can you not just leave me alone?” Good question! Námo said softly, remembering well the anguish and despair that had consumed Turgon’s fëa, so much so that Námo had forbidden his Judgment at the time. Even now the once king of Gondolin still lay in healing sleep guarded constantly by four Maiar until such time as he was deemed strong enough to face the Judgment of the Valar as all must who had participated in the Rebellion. Ooooh, I am highly intrigued. Do you expand on this somewhere else?
Author's reply
I'm glad you found Finrod's explanation touching and that you like how I am (slowly) fleshing out Olwë's character. Glorfindel, especially, is still at a stage emotionally when he is expecting punishment and when dealing with the Lord of Mandos, it's safe to assume (however wrongly) that you're more likely to be punished than not. *grin* I don't know where the quote "an enigma wrapped up in a mystery" comes from. It's just something I've heard or seen elsewhere in a different context, but I think it describes Glorfindel to a "T". *grin* As for Turgon... the only place where I explicitly speak about his delayed judgment is in my story "Lord Námo's Yule Gift" which you can read on this site. Eventually, I hope to actually write about Turgon and his judgment but that will come in a completely different story. Someday....
njomo · 31 May 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans
Hi Fiondil, I must agree that Arafinwë is a very interesting elf. I am in awe of your portrayal of him. A many-layered character indeed. I find I repect Arafinwë a lot, especially knowing (even in a small way) the struggles he has been through during the darkening. I like how he interacts with the Reborn in his household--caring, respectful and willing to really listen and consider what they have to say, and yet still a king to be reckoned with. But methinks Arafinwë will need all his wisdom and more during the Progess. Laurendil is a bit transparent, isn't he? By his reaction one can only assume that an orc was instrumental in his meeting Manwen. I am reminded that Tolkien himself did not preclude nissi from fighting--and fighting capably when necessary. One can understand Lauendil's reaction under the circumstances, though, but I hope he and Manwen can come to some understanding before the Progress begins. And so to the Reborn--so good to see them relaxed and enjoying themselves. I think it is significant that Celepharn is able to admit to this group what he had done before he died, but significant also is how Finrod handled the situation. One hopes that Celpharn will commit himself well during the Progress and will be able to gain back some of his self respect. Hopefully Finrod has already started him on the way. Now the time has arrived we've all been waiting for. Can't wait to see what you have in store for us! Joanne
Author's reply
Thank you, Joanne. I'm glad you like my portrayal of Arafinwë. He is very intriguing to me and I will be exploring his story more fully in my upcoming Darkening story. I'm sure Laurendil will resign himself to Manwen being on the Progress. He does know her worth, after all. As Finrod says, he'll come around. We will see how Celepharn fares on the Progress (along with all the other Reborn). I'm sure Finrod's words went a long way towards helping him accept what he did and regain his self-respect. Can't wait to see what you have in store for us! Be careful what you wish for! *lol*
Imhiriel · 31 May 2009 · Chapter 28: Judgment
I admit I don't quite understand why they all make such a fuss about the letter. I do understand that Lindorillë might feel a bit rejected, but why do the others act as if Finrod had done something abominable, when all he did was shorten the time of the children's "punishment"? Yes, they have found useful things to do in Lórien, but they could just as well continue them when not in Finrod's service. The gradual revelations of the various mysterious of this particular plot thread was done very well. Very suspenseful - while I was curious about Lisselindë's fater, of course I was still more anxious about Olórin's role in all this and how he would come out of it. It's high time Glorfindel and some of the other Elves become more "stable" and less excitable. It's odd how often so many of them react hysterically whenever they have to deal with the Valar (or "even" the Maiar) - they should know by now that the Valar aren't there to throw punishments around left and right whenever they feel like it. I loved the bit with painting Irmo's pavillion - and I bet he wonders if at the end of Glorfindel & Co.'s visit, how much of Lórien will be left standing, or left standing unscathed... I liked the description of the Maiar guards - chill and stern and majestic - are they the ones who guard the fëar who won't be leaving Mandos? Btw, I'm glad we finally got to meet Olwë's wife!
Author's reply
I think it wasn't so much what Finrod thought to do but the fact that Lindorillë found the letter and misinterpreted its intent. She, especially, was still in a vulnerable state emotionally, recovering from her desire to fade, so Finrod supposedly deciding to shorten the elflings' service to him, especially Lindorillë's, would be seen as cruel given the circumstances. At any rate, I'm glad you found the way the gradual revelations of the various mysteries surrounding this plot thread very well done. I tried to keep it suspenseful without making it implausible. I'm sure in time some of the Elves will be less excitable around the Valar and Maiar. The Valar have sort of kept a 'hands-off' policy concerning the Amanaian elves but now that the Reborn are in their midst, they are taking a more active role. I'm glad you liked the painting of the pavilion. I'm sure many are wondering if Lórien will ever be the same once Glorfindel and Co. get done with it. *grin* The Maiar guards are usually the ones who guard the fëar who won't be leaving Mandos. We meet some of them (briefly) in my Tapestry story "DISORDER: Chaos Theory".
Agape4Gondor · 30 May 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans
I loved the convergence of the Reborn... Great dialogue. Very interesting points brought up. I'm getting a wee bit worried about this progress. I do so hope all will be well. What am I saying??? I can already feel at least three or four cliffhangers approaching to whack me side of the head!!!!
Author's reply
You know me, Agape... the king of cliffhangers! *lol* Anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed the Reborn gathering and the points that were brought up. I'm hoping the Progress will run more or less smoothly, but with Reborn in the mix (and there will be some from Tol Eressëa involved) there's no guarantee. Anyway, next chapter will actually see them on their way.
Aiwen · 30 May 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans
Finarfin is a very interesting elf. I look forward to reading that darkening of Valinor fic you mentioned.
Author's reply
I'm glad you find Arafinwë interesting. He's a very intriguing chasracter with depths to him that I still haven't uncovered. I hope to have the Darkening story ready for posting later in the year.
Larner · 30 May 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans
Good question, that last one! And indeed the Valar don't usually give baseless directions--they grow wiser in trusting them.
Author's reply
Good question indeed, especially when the watchers are all Reborn! *grin* And no, the Valar never give baseless directions, just confusing ones. *grin* Still, as you say, the elves are wiser for trusting them than not. Thanks for reviewing, Larner. I appreciate it.
Kitty · 30 May 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans
You realise that now people will want to know *how* exactly Laurendil and Manwen did meet, do you? *grin* Anyway, though I understand Laurendil’s concern about his wife and share it to a certain extent, I’m glad she is coming, too. I would miss her otherwise. Hm, that’s true – why did Irmo think it necessary to send three Loriennildi with them and spoiled the begetting day of his sister for Eärnur when he was sending Laurendil and Manwen anyway? I wouldn’t be too surprised if that devious Vala has some hidden purpose in mind – don’t believe for one second that Glorfindel’s theory about Teleri prefering being tended to by one of their own was the reason. Now I can spend my time thinking about what is behind that. Seems I was right – Eregil will fit in well with the other troublemakers, considering how disrespectful he’s with his former king *grin* Yes, I have to admit that Finrod’s concern isn’t completely unfounded – knowing how even Glorfindel and Sador, who have been out a bit longer, sometimes act, one never knows how the more recently released four will do. But at least they are forewarned, and it is good that they think that through beforehand. Not wearing warror braids as a sort of camouflage? Now that’s an idea! And it might work, yes. Can't wait for the Progress to start!
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. I'm sure everyone will want to know how those two met. *grin* I'm glad you are happy to see Manwen again and participating in the Progress. I have to admit that I've sort of neglected her (and to some extent Laurendil) of late. But, as you can see, they have been a little busy recently. *grin* As another reviewer points out, the Valar usually do not give out baseless directions. If Irmo thinks Eärnur should be there, then there is a reason even if no one (including the author!) knows what it is. *lol* I'm sure we'll all find out soon enough. As they say, forewarned is forearmed, and let's hope that it works or at least that they are able to mitigate whatever damage occurs because of their (unintended) actions. And we'll see if not wearing braids is good camouflage or not. We will begin the Progess with the next chapter. Thanks for the reivew, Kitty. I appreciate it.
Sunny · 30 May 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans
Imagine that! Lauarendil blushing – blushing!!! – at Finrod’s innocent question of how he and Manwen met. Does it have something to do with the Orc that got skewered by Manwen instead of skewering him? I am sure there may be a story here – if the Muse wants you to pursue the idea, that is. ;-) So the Reborn have their own meeting (I wonder if the once-born get worried at that?). There was that bit about what they should do if the memories of any of the “young” Reborn get too overwhelming, though. And that is something that the Reborn would be better at planning for themselves – not that it is something that _can_ be planned. And who _will_ be watching the watchers? :-)
Author's reply
Hi Sunny. Perhaps someday Laurendil (or possibly Manwen) will clue me in on how they met, but I suspect it has to do with a certain orc. *sly grin* Manwen is one elleth you don't want to fool with, she can take care of herself. I'm not sure if the Once-born are aware of the meeting of the Reborn, though I suspect very little goes on around Arafinwë of which he isn't aware. And you are correct, some things, such as overwhelming memories and other "Reborn problems" would be best handled by those who have experienced them and are better able to deal with them. As for who will be watching the watchers.... that remains to be seen. *grin*
Imhiriel · 28 May 2009 · Chapter 14: What the Elder King Revealed
This is more a drive-by question rather than a thorough review: Am I reading this correct that the oath that so influences Glorfindel's behaviour isn't an oath he swore to Turgon as an especially loyal liege? That there is another one, a more consequential (and more personal/specific) one? And if so, will you elaborate on this in the near future (if you haven't already in the already published chapters, that is)? It just feels like in this chapter they discuss this possibility, then get sidetracked, and then let the whole matter fall by the side. Is this intentional on the Valar's side? So far, these chapters feel like a set-up for a giant story to come, and has me intrigued. I have to admit it's a little frustrating to read in reviews that your story concerning Ingwion and the Darkening will not be forthcoming for some time when you strew such provoking hints into this epic. That's a more aggravating (Lol) variation on some of the eeeevil cliffhangers you have already provided your poor readers with!
Author's reply
Yes, this is not the Life Oath that is mentioned here, but a personal and indeed private oath that Glorfindel swore to himself and it was that oath that was driving him. It really isn't discussed any further than it is here, since, as Manwë and Námo point out, that oath should have ceased to have any relevance once Glorfindel died. It was really just his own stubbornness that caused the oath to manifest itself the way it did and was the reason for the actions the Valar took when they were re-embodying him. Naturally I am setting up a story here *grin* and unfortunately it takes time and many chapters to do so, so please be patient. The story of the Darkening is being written, I assure you, but I do not want to start posting it too soon as there would be plot spoilers. I have to wait until Elf, Interrupted is finished, or nearly so. Hopefully, I will begin posting the Darkening story before the end of the year. As for the hints... well, they are meant to whet your appetite for the future story. *grin*
Kaylee Arafinwiel · 27 May 2009 · Chapter 59: A Surprise Reunion
Mai omentaina, meldonya! (Yes, *that* Kaylee, come to bother you *again* *wry grin*) I've taken a few days to read and re-read this chapter, because I really wanted to have a proper, coherent review for it. I simply was not ready for Edrahil of all people, ah, Elves, to show up. Edrahil?? That was unexpected to say the least. But then when does Lord Irmo ever do the expected? (I wonder what bet Lord Namo lost or possibly won on his apprentice's reaction...because I'm sure there was one) Ah, so preparations for the Progress are progressing (Progress...progressing...hee *grin*) apace. At least, I think they are. Trust someone to throw an orc into the works at just the wrong time and it'll be the Reborn, unless it's the Tol Eresseans. *snicker* Tirion vanishing? Never mind that, I hope Tol Eressea is left standing when these ones are done with it! Mithlas. *grin* There's an ellon I was glad to see again. :) Glad to hear good news from him about his family and I'm glad Celepharn came too. I hope things go smoothly now that Midsummer is over, but with Glorfindel and Finda involved? I can expect more surprises. Expect the unexpected, that's my rule with those two...and Laurendil!!! YAY for Laurendil and Manwen! And yay for Unca' Glorfi and Unca' Finda...I *dare* Laurendil to name the baby Finduilas, if it's a girl. *snicker* I hope I didn't miss anything! *grin* It was all so wonderful! Looking forward to more and to the new Tales from Vaire's Loom which will begin after my birthday! (the 29th, two days from now!) Tye-melin, Kaylee!
Author's reply
You were not the only one taken by surprise at the appearance of Edrahil, Kaylee, so don't feel too bad. If there was a bet going on between Námo and Irmo on Finrod's reaction to seeing Edrahil and Eregil, they haven't told me. *grin* We have one more chapter dealing with the preparations for the Progress before they actually set out and then who knows what will happen once they all get to Tol Eressëa? As for Laurendil and Manwen's baby, all you have to do is go back and read "The Last Messenger" to find out what they named it (and their other two children) *grin*. And happy birthday! I hope you have a great day. Thanks for reviewing, Kaylee. I really appreciate it.
Midnight Promise · 27 May 2009 · Chapter 59: A Surprise Reunion
Yay! I was wondering when Edrahil would come in! *Grins* In your tapestry shot (Contest: Power Play), it is mentioned that Edrahil and the others may have had ill feelings towards Beren. Will that subject be more exploited with Edrahil now Reborn, or if it is something left to the reader. . . again . . .? ^_- Also, and I do realize this is a LONG way away, but I was just thinking about what would Galadriel's reaction be when she first sees Glorfindel and finds out about the friendship between her brother and him. Again, I know this is slightly off-topic during these events but I kept coming back around to it when I was re-reading Tâd Edhel a Firion. And the hints of prior acquaintances between Glorfindel and the Lady of Light. Would there be anything related to that or not? To but it nicely, I am inquisitive; to put it bluntly, I am nosy. : 3 I cannot wait for the new story to come out (as hinted before on a previous author review) and best of luck in writing, may you never have writers block!
Author's reply
I'm glad you like that Edrahil has finally made an appearance. We'll see what happens with him and Finrod as the story progresses. In my Tapestry story I only hint at the possibility that Finrod's companions might have resented Beren as the root cause of all their woes (being captured and ultimately put to death by Sauron), but that is only a hint and not necessarily true for any or all of them. Each of them joined Finrod because of their oaths to him, which, as Edrahil says here, were too important to break regardless of the outcome. I don't think Glorfindel ever told Galadriel that he and her brother Finrod were gwedyr or even that her father had sort of adopted him. In Tâd Edhel a Firion I have him comment on the fact that he and Galadriel were acquainted with one another in Aman when they were both elflings but by the same token Finrod was already an adult and had nothing to do with him. I think Glorfindel rather enjoyed *not* telling Galadriel about this, so you can imagine her surprise when she returns to Aman and the first thing Finrod asks her is "What news of my gwador, Glorfindel?" *grin* Thanks for your good wishes. I hope you enjoy the new story which I will begin posting in the beginning of June.
Tari · 26 May 2009 · Chapter 59: A Surprise Reunion
Just goes to show, not all suprises are good. Poor Finrod almost had a "heart attack". though I doubt Elves have that health problesm. You mentioned Thorste Renk & Helge Fauskanger books. How do I find them?
Author's reply
Hi Tari. Yes, not all surprises are good and Finrod probably came as close to having a heart attack as any elf could. *grin* Luckily, he recovered rather quickly. Thorsten Renk and Helge Faurkanger's works are online and downloadable. You can google their names and find their websites easily enough. Helge concentrates primarily on Quenya while Thorsten has courses in Quenya, Sindarin and Adûnaic. His works are more accessible to the non-linguist.
Aiwen · 25 May 2009 · Chapter 59: A Surprise Reunion
I really enjoyed seeing Finrod reunited with Edrahil. Once I saw how strongly Finrod was reacting I knew it had to be Edrahil or one of the other members of the Quest of the Silmaril.
Author's reply
I didn't really know who Irmo was going to send until they arrived in Tirion and threw back their cloaks. *lol* Sneaky Vala. I'm glad you liked Finrod being reunited with Edrahil.
ellie · 25 May 2009 · Chapter 59: A Surprise Reunion
I was surprised at Finrod's strong reaction, but then again I have never considered how it must have been for him watching his comrades die out of loyalty to him. I'm glad to see Edrahil again. poor Finrod! well done!
Author's reply
Finrod always blamed himself for what happened, knowing these companions came with him and Beren purely out of loyalty to him and not because they either believed in the Quest or believed that they would succeed in it. And Edrahil was the first to join in the Quest. If Finrod meets any of the other companions now it won't come as much as a shock and any guilt he might have had will have been dealt with before meeting them because of Edrahil.
Sitara · 25 May 2009 · Chapter 59: A Surprise Reunion
I apologize for the late review and I apologize as well for the grimness of it. Frankly, I find disturbing Finrod's reaction at seeing again his companions, even more disturbing than Glorfindel's when he recalled the last moments with his parents in Aman. I believe there is something that I'm missing, but I have to ask myself once again what happens usually within the Halls of Mandos and what healing means. I expected a certain reaction from Finrod's part and he feeling guilty over the deaths of his companions, but not such a drastic one. Has he not confronted these feelings during his stay in Mandos? Has not Glorfindel? On other note, I'm glad to see those warriors alive again, although I didn't think about them, when Irmo agreed (in his own way) to send some Reborn to aid Finarfin. But you're right, they are the best choice, given their common history with the former king of Nargothrond. As for Finrod's opinion acoording to which the Reborn and Returnees are more familiarized with treachery and thusly more fitting for the task at hand...I beg to differ. The ones currently inhabiting Formenos are the living proof. "bitter smile" And I'm ready to bet they wouldn't be the only ones, given the proper reason and opportunity. I can only guess for now, but I believe that Morgoth's Ring does include Valinor too. Hidden or not.
Author's reply
Well, you really don't need to apolgize for either a late review or for the tone of it. I'm happy to see a review from you, Sitara, whenever you are able to send one. While there is healing in Mandos, that doesn't mean that those who pass through its Halls are free of all doubts and concerns, plus one has to remember that suffering amnesia while in Mandos lifts the burden of having to deal with these feelings. Finrod's reaction was one of shock simply because he was not expecting to see Edrahil and was given no warning. Probably at the sight of the ellon the memory of their last hours in Sauron's dungeons came rushing back to him, almost as if he were suffering a flashback of the PTSS type. As for your last comment about treachery... I think Finrod was speaking in general terms based on personal history. The history of Beleriand is one of treachery after treachery and the people living on Tol Eressëa are all survivors of one form of treachery or another. The people of Aman have had fewer experiences of treachery and those now residing in Formenos are a recent occurence. Overall, I think the Reborn and Returnees are *more* familiar with treachery than their Amanian kin without necessarily denying that the Amanians have had *some* experiences with it. Oromë did remind Arafinwë after the ellon objected to their going to Formenos after the Hunt that "... the very ground you ride upon has been touched by my Fallen Brother’s hand and evil is all around." So yes, Morgoth's Ring encompasses even Valinor, indeed all of Arda, though its taint is felt less in Aman than anywhere else.
Larner · 24 May 2009 · Chapter 59: A Surprise Reunion
Glorfindel has a point about the likelihood surprises can be too disturbing. No wonder Finrod was distressed--he must at times feel terribly guilty. Am glad all is going well with all of them at this moment, at least, however, and that all recovered well from the shock.
Author's reply
Im sure Finrod has felt guilty about leading the others to their deaths, even if that was unintentional. I have no doubt that he always felt that he should have been stronger and should have been able to defeat Sauron in their battle of Songs of Power, but of course, that's ridiculous. As powerful as Finrod might be, he is still only an Elf, whereas Sauron was a Maia. At any rate, he now has the opportunity to apologize to at least one of his companions, even if Edrahil doesn't think an apology is necessary. That should go a long way towards healing him of his misplaced guilt.
6336 · 24 May 2009 · Chapter 59: A Surprise Reunion
So in about a year Laurendil and Manwen will be knee deep in diapers and baby clothes? At least I don't need to wait to find out what they will be having, ellith or ellon! Yay for elflings!!!! Wonder what Unca' Glorfi and Sador think of it? More please, Lynda
Author's reply
I'm sure Unca' Glorfi and Sador are thrilled at the idea. *grin*
Rhyselle · 24 May 2009 · Chapter 59: A Surprise Reunion
I had been wondering about who would be the ones to come from Lorien to assist Finrod and Glorfindel in organizing the security for Arafinwe's trip to Tol Eressea, but I wasn't expecting to meet Edrahil and Eregil (tricksy fellow he! *has a great mental image of Laurendil weeping over a bowl full of peeled onions*). No wonder that Finrod reacted the way he did, particularly with Edrahil's appearance. I do like Edrahil very much--his statement about not letting the Feanoreans turn him into an oathbreaker was perfect--and I liked his little twist of humor in there too... it was just what Finrod needed. And Mithlas! So good that his mother and sister are recovering enough to kick him out of Lorien. *grin* Thinking about them made me think of how going to Mandos is not necessarily a BAD thing, but it is certainly easier for those dealing with them to treat a damaged living elf than to have to deal with all of the ramifications of being reborn. Well done (as always!) and it was so lovely to read this before going to church to give a talk about Memorial Day. Please thank your muse for me!
Author's reply
Hi Rhyselle. I know a lot of people were wondering who Irmo would send. I found it amusing how many were hoping Celepharn would be one of them, though I'm not sure why they all wanted him to be there. I didn't think he was that popular a character in spite of his attitude change. Anyway, I wasn't sure who else would be there until almost the last minute myself. Dealing with damaged living elves is probably easier than dealing with the Reborn, since, at least in the beginning, their actions can sometimes be unpredicatble as they try to reclaim their lost lives. Still, they are a bit more fun to write about. *grin* Glad you enjoyed this chapter, Rhyselle, and I hope your talk went well. My Muse says 'You're welcome'. *grin*