Agape4Gondor
· 15 March 2009
· Chapter 48: The Second Lesson
Wow - what an excellent chapter. Lisseldine is probably moritifed as she watched! She should have been there - sharing in the battle - with her 'supposed' skills. What a waste... and yet....
Glorfindel was stupendous - naturally! But I loved the lesson learned... And I'm glad Orome applauded the Elf's abilities.
Well written as usual....
Author's reply
Thanks, Agape. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. We'll learn in the next chapter just why Lisselindë didn't sense the cats. Glorfindel isn't the only one with a lesson to be learned.
Sitara
· 15 March 2009
· Chapter 48: The Second Lesson
Despite of what I used to think, so much about the bliss of Aman. What on Arda was with those creatures there? Where did they get from? What other creatures could be possibly still lurking around? Would it be possible for Sauron's minions, balrogs and dragons to reach Aman as well? The story you're so beautifully writing is before Ar-Pharazon's attack,when Valinor was still in the real world, so to speak, therefore could it be possible for some of those creatures to actually reach somehow the Blessed Realm? Or, perhaps those catlike things have been dwelling there since their "creation"? I find this very intriguing. "frown"
I absolutely loved both the pack of wolves defending the deers and Orome's arrival with his warriors. As his interactions with the animals. Perhaps this is why the Amaneldi aren't quite the seasoned warriors when obviously the land is still dangerous: the Ainur are there to fight it for them. Loved it. "sigh" Well, after all, once bitten, twice shy. "sad smile"
As for Glorfindel being the greatest swordsman in Arda...well, I have to ask, before voicing my opinion, whether I should consider the Halls of Mandos as part of it? "wide grin" If not, I totally agree.
By the way, what is that Nyereser appears to know and we and Glorfindel do not? What is the meaning of "soon"? "raising eyebrows"
I liked much Orome in this. Very much. I hope we'll see him again acting thusly. Well, knowing you, I suppose those "cats" weren't there just to teach Glorfindel a lesson, were they? "grin"
P.S. As a cat owner, I must confess I felt less than confortable reading this, you know. LOL
Author's reply
We know from the Silmarillion that Oromë often hunted evil creatures in the norhtern parts of Valinor, so it is likely that such creatures would find their way across the land bridge connecting Valinor with Middle-earth at this time. Oromë will actually speak more about this to Glorfindel in a subsequent chapter.
Well, if you're referring to any mortals hanging around in the Halls of Mandos, they don't count. *grin* And if you're referring to any elves who are also languishing away in Mandos, they don't count either. And even Oromë acknowledges the fact that Finrod is most likely Glorfindel's equal so it's not an exclusive club to which he belongs. *grin*
As for Nyéreser... he's a Maia... there are a lot of things he knows that we and Glorfindel do not... and as he said, for him, all times are 'soon', so even if Glorfindel has to wait a whole age or more before he gets to run with the wolves again, it will still be soon for the Maia. *lol*
As a previous cat owner and an inveterate cat lover myself, I didn't have too much trouble with this chapter. If you go to the site I mention in my note and see what these creatures might have looked like you really can't compare Garfield to any of them. *lol*
Rhyselle
· 15 March 2009
· Chapter 48: The Second Lesson
Oh, this was just magnificent! From the description of the need that Glorfindel felt, to that of the fight itself, to the lesson about relative strengths that Glorfindel brought from this, it was so very vivid and powerful.
We are off to church now, but I'm very glad I stopped to read this chapter first.
I don't know about other people, but I find great reassurance in knowing that God and His angels are more powerful than any evil that may beset us.
Author's reply
Thank you for this, Rhyselle. I'm very happy that you found the whole chapter vivid and powerful. I don't know about other people, either, but I'm with you in finding great comfort in the knowledge that God and his angels are more powerful than any evil that may beset us. I'm sure Glorfindel feels the same way. *grin*
Kitty
· 15 March 2009
· Chapter 48: The Second Lesson
*shakes head* Lisselindë chose the perfect moment to go all stubborn, did she? It was so obvious that Glorfindel had heard or sensed something he felt was a threat, and she with her Maiar senses should have realised it. Glad Tiutalion and Nyereser had the sense to do what she refused to do.
The encounter with these monsters was pretty spectacular. Glorfindel really did a great job to hold them off until Oromë and his Maiar arrived on the scene. Impressing.
You know, Glorfindel might now have realised that the Maiar never fought him on their own level, but even if they went down to *his* level, that's still the highest level in Aman, and he defeated them. So I think he still has every right to be proud of himself. And he killed three of these monsters now - how many Amaneldi would have managed that? I guess most of them would have run away ... (I know I would have!). Btw, I like the idea that Glorfindel got the furs to make into gifts for his gwedyr.
Look forward to know what Lisselindë has to say to her defense now ...
Author's reply
Glorfindel has every reason to be proud of his warrior skills, and as you point out, even if the Maiar did fight at his level, that's still the highest level in Aman. Possibly only Finrod could be considered his equal in this.
We will see in the next chapter just why Lisselindë as a Maia did not sense these evil creatures and what will come of that revelation.
Thanks for reviewing, Kitty. I appreciate it.
Aiwen
· 13 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
I'm glad you're going to be telling more about what happened in Aman after the darkening because the hints you've been throwing out at intervals are somewhat maddening. Very interesting chapter, and thank you for writing.
Author's reply
Thank you, Aiwen, for continuing to read my stories and leaving a review or two along the way. I really appreciate it. I know how frustrating these hints about the Darkening must be but on a bright note, I've already begun writing the story and hope to begin posting it later in the spring or by summer. We need to get "Elf, Interrupted" much further along before that or there will be plot spoilers.
Independence1776
· 12 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
"Which is why I’m eternally grateful to Ilúvatar that Námo is the older brother, not I."
*snorts* Irmo…
"But only in generalities," Ingwë reminded him. "They are not given personal details.
To me, that makes no sense. People will ask questions until they know. Elves as a general rule are curious. The Reborn and Exiles aren't children to be protected-- they're adults and they need to know such things, even if to know what to not talk about to whom.
"Then I do not see the conflict. Speak to him. Answer his questions. He needs to know what happened, Ingwion, even if only from your perspective, which admittedly is limited. He needs to have the past illuminated or he will not understand what he sees happening around him in the present, for it has no context for him. Without that context he cannot hope to prepare himself for the future."
Given how old Ingwion is, he should have been able to see that for himself.
Fiondil, this chapter brings some interesting developments, but at the same time, I dislike how many of the Elves (and Maiar) are acting like children. Many of them are thousands of years old and they would be more mature than what you're showing. Furthermore, I feel the plot has been lost somewhere, as things are just dragging out. It isn't really keeping my interest anymore. I'm sorry.
Author's reply
You are correct, Indy, about people asking questions until they know, but that doesn't mean that those questions are answered by those in the know. Ingwion, however old he is, has been scarred by what happened to him in the past, as have Ingwë and Arafinwë, and people who are scarred in those ways are usually reluctant to speak about what happened. And sometimes, we need to be reminded of things we already know. Ingwion recognizes that Finrod needs to know what happened and why, but is unsure how to proceed, thus his conversation with Námo.
As for your other complaint... I realize that the plot seems to be lost, but I promise you that it isn't. Having more than one main character, each with their own story to tell, does make it difficult to show a clear plotline sometimes, but I assure you there is one and eventually they will all come together. I hope you will stick around a little longer and maybe your interest will return, but if not, I understand.
Thalanee
· 11 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
"Reborn Rampage" *snicker* I love that!
"Irmo said gently. "They see you more as the elder brother and we all know that elder brothers were born to interfere with the fun of their younger siblings."" the same is true for Elder sisters... at least so I am told frequently and with great vigour by all my younger siblings (and I wouldn´t know since I´m the oldest).
I really wanted to give Ingwion a hug in this chapter.
He and Arafinwe worry to much about : I don´t think that either will loose Findarato´s love or respect. family and friends stick together ( that is what they are about, friends being the family you choose yourself...)Actually I sort of envy the easy way they show each other their affection.
So there is another story coming up? I´m really looking forward to that. Your muse doesn´t give you a rest, does it.
Greetings, Thalanee
Author's reply
Hi Thalanee. Well, being both a younger and older sibling, I can tell you that what Irmo says is very true. *grin*
I think Ingwion and Arafinwë suffered greatly during the time of the Darkening, though for different reasons, and they were forced to do things for which they are not proud. And of course, all parents want their children to think of them in a good light, rather than a bad one; Arafinwë is no different. I'm sure, though, whatever happened to Arafinwë during that time, Finrod will have nothing but the deepest respect for his atar.
I'm glad you're looking forward to the new story about the Darkening and I hope it doesn't disappoint. And I think I would rather have my Muse nagging me constantly rather than not. One thing I haven't had to complain about in a long time is writer's block. *grin*
Tari
· 9 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
Reborn Rampage. I love it. I think they’re entitled to it after all they’ve been through, both before and now.
One thing I love about these elves is how freely they show affection to each other be it by a kiss on the forehead, or a hug. Too bad more of us aren’t like that.
We have to wait for another story? I don’t think your mind ever rests. I’m ready for more. Bring them on.
Author's reply
Thanks, Tari. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. I think I like having the elves be so free in showing their affection for one another (my beta does too) because our own society has lost that practice. We've become too afraid that in showing affection, especially in public, will land us in trouble or place labels on us that we do not deserve. It's a real pity, because when we lose the ability to show affection for one another, we lose our sense of compassion for others as well.
My muse is a harsh taskmaster. I no sooner finish up one story when two more pop up demanding to be written. *lol* It's like fighting the hydra -- a never ending battle.
Edlyn
· 9 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
A most intriguing and excellent chapter, meldonya. I was so happy to find that Aldundil has become an illuminator. I wish I could see his portfolio and sit and compare opinions on pigments and techniques.
And Vorondil was a delight.
My interest is piqued even more about the events that occurred after Finrod and the other Exiles left Aman. Frankly, I want to give Ingwion a hug and reassure him that he's not going ot lose our love. I know you will tell us what we need to know eventually so I won't nag you with "But what happened?" and the like.
I'm sorry I don't have time today to give you an in-depth review since I have class and work but I'll re-read this and try to comment more later.
Eru bless!
EDlyn
P.S. How old is Vorondil BTW (chronologically)? I know he's still not a legal adult but I just realised that I don't know the age that an elf is considered such in this fic-verse.
Author's reply
Hi, Edlyn. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. I'm sure everyone's interest is piqued about the events that occurred after the Exiles left Aman (that's the whole point of dropping these hints *grin*).
As for Vorondil's age... Tolkien tells us that elves become adults at age 50, although they usually continue maturing emotionally for another 50 years after that. Think about an 18-year-old being considered an adult in terms of being able to vote, go to war, get married, etc. S/he may be an adult legally, but probably not considered a mature adult in comparison to someone who is, say, 25 years old.
Vorondil, when we first meet him in "Elf, Interrupted 1", is still 44 years old, almost 45. The other fosterlings are older, 47-48 years old. Technically speaking, Vorondil shouldn't have been eligible until the following winter to be fostered at Ingwë's court since fosterling should have seen their 45th beggetting day beforehand, but some strings were pulled (a few by the Valar I suspect) to get him in the same 'class' as Glorfindel. Emotionally, however, he is closer to 33 (about 14 in human terms) due to his Judgment. By the time he reaches 50 though, he will most likely have 'caught up' emotionally with his peers.
Hel
· 8 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
Seems that everyone is making the two feeling bad about the "Reborn Rampage"-Incident. But in the long run it will help them to think things trough before acting (one can hope!) and grow up. They may see themselves as grown up but that they doubt Finrod´s love and respect for them shows how immature they are.
I think and hope Ingwion will fell better after he has told Finrod of his experiences during the Darkening. And I think, it is better Finrod will get the whole story from him and the others directly, than from some third party who may distort it.
If Finrod is to be a leader again, he needs to know the whole truth, to understand what influences the feelings of the elves of Aman. As the kings of Aman need to know what happened in Arda to understand the Returnes and the Reborn. In this not-knowing what happend and not understandig what influences the other lies the reason for much of the trouble and tensions arising between the different elven parties.
And the more hints you give about the time of the darkening the more curious I get about the promised story. And as much as I like this story I hope you start the other soon.
Author's reply
Well, it's going to take them awhile to mature completely, but giving them more responsibilities should help them feel good about themselves.
Much of the trouble among the elves is that there isn't enough communication between the various parties. There's a sense of superiority among the Amaneldi who pretty much have the attitude of "we didn't rebel or refused to come to Valinor so we're better than you are", while the returnees, especially the Noldor, are discouraged to speak of their experiences in Middle-earth, as if to say, "What you did there, because of the way you left Aman, has no validity in our eyes." This makes it even worse for the Reborn. Even those Noldor and Vanyar from Aman who went to Beleriand during the War of Wrath are not encouraged to speak of their experiences there. It's almost like when, during the Vietnam War, soldiers returning were not treated with the respect they deserved simply because the war was unpopular. A similar situation is occurring here in Aman.
While I have begun writing the story, I won't be posting it immediately. I hope to begin posting perhaps by summer, though, so please be patient.
6336
· 8 March 2009
· Chapter 46: What Others Were Doing
Ingil just dosen't understand does he, you just can't expect younglings to be on their best behavior all the time, it just isn't natural, if they don't get a chance to be themselves it can get messy, very messy, espcially if they get into the paint tent or go on a kitchen raid!
I think all Maia should observe a family for a couple of years before working with them in any capacity, to give them some idea of how to interact with them.
The Re-born and the Retunees are like people who go to work one day and find their job has been replaced by a machine and the skills they worked years to perfect are no longer needed. Giving Beleg and Sador a job to do will keep them out of trouble and give them meaning.
Looks like Larner has been reading Surgical Steel's stuff and what are my cats doing in you reply to Tari's review, I know they get around but did not think they had made it that far!
By the way, minor niggle, but didn't you feed Mithlas in the last chapter when Laurindil ordered baths for them?
More please,
Lynda
Author's reply
I had to go back to Tari's and Larner's reviews to see what you were talking about. *lol*
Anyway, to answer your niggle... I doubt Mithlas was in the mood to eat anything at the time and probably refused even a bite, being more concerned with seeing to his naneth and sister. That's why Laurendil questioned him about it here once Mithlas was assured that they were well on the road to recovery and can now attend to his own needs.
The Maiar, for all their wisdom, don't really understand the Firstborn and the dynamics of family life among the mirroanwi. Hence, Ingil's honest confusion over Finrod's diatribe. Remember, they have been observing the elves for ages now, and they're still a bit clueless about some tings; witness Lisselindë' misguided presumptions concerning Finrod.
Larner
· 8 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
A terrible weapon truth can be--but necessary in this case.
Author's reply
Very true, Larner. Most people don't realize just how terrible a weapon truth can be or how very necessary it is to cut through the Enemy's lies, which are also used as weapons.
6336
· 8 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
Hm, interesting chapter, ties a few bows, but unravels a few more!
The good thing is Vorondil is back with Master and Adundil has a new life, Oh and Finrod won't be walking around in tunics that look like he slept in them!
As a side note how is Adundil's wife doing, has her stay with Vaire helped?
Looking forward to the new tale.
More please,
Lynda
Author's reply
Well, you know me... I never close all the doors and like to open a few more along the way. It keeps the readers wanting more. *devious grin* I have no idea about Aldundil's wife at the moment and do not even know if she will appear later on. I'm sure Vairë is very patient with her, and Míriel as well. Unlike Aldundil, though, Calalindalë is very stubborn and unwilling to accept correction from others. It may take a while.
Sunny
· 8 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
I wonder if talking to Finrod is also going to help Ingwion? I suspect that whatever is bothering Ingwion might be something he would have trouble discussing with someone who hasn’t lived with war and violence. Which would leave out the Amanian Elves. But here comes Finrod, with lots of experience from the front lines in Beleriand, the aftermath of battles, and various kind of trauma.
So Finrod is going to help launch Aldundil’s new career as an illuminator. Makes sense. Finrod is after all Aldundil’s liege lord, and I expect he would have an interest in seeing to it that his dependents have happy and productive lives.
And I see that you are throwing bait into the waters, just to keep the fish circling until you are ready to throw out the baited hook. In other words, when are you going to start posting _In Darkness Bound_? (You can't blame a girl for asking since you are hinting at what is _in_ that story already...) ;-)
Author's reply
Hopefully talking to Finrod will indeed help Ingwion. We'll have to wait and see. I am already writing the Darkening story but I won't be posting it until later in the year as I do want to get EI-2 finished or nearly finished before I do. If I post the Darkening story now there would be too many plot spoilers for EI-2. You'll just have to be patient. (Where have I heard that one before? *grin*)
Sitara
· 8 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
I told you once, if you remember, that , according to my opinion, only when almost all of the Noldor had decided to leave Aman, the Valar realised they have had not only one problem (meaning one Elf) but rather a crowd of problems. Now, I'm taking my reasoning further than this and say that not all the problems have left Valinor that night. Some of them returned after the Doom of Mandos had been uttered and others had never left Aman. And that it's not anymore only about the Noldor. The Vanyar and the Teleri are now part of the problem, although I personally have my reasons to think they were such from the beginning, even before the Darkening.
Tolkien says somewhere that, after providing for Arda the light of Anor and Isil, the Valar resumed their peaceful dwelling in Aman once more but those lines are hidding much behind their obvious meaning, as I believe now. As many of your readers, I knew about your intentions to write about the Darkening and, to be honest, I have been (and I still am) dreading the moment. "sheepish grin". Reading carefully Ingwion's reactions and your hints, I came to draw my own conclusions, which may or may not be true. "grin" And no, I don't actually think it'd be "he" the person that Ingwion had sought to save back then. "laugh" But I believe I do know what could think someone failing to save the loved ones and what one could be tempted to do then. "shudder"
You know, for some reasons, I never liked very much Finarfin, or, more to the point, I was never able to understand him. Now I believe you may offer me the opportunity to see the other side of the coin, or "what I wouldn't have done" version. What I would actually have done...
Huh...you made me go ranting again. "wide grin". Sorry. And only when I think how eager I was to see Vorondil and Finrod reunited..."sigh". I'm afraid I have bored you enough as to write also about their meeting. Only a few words for Aldundil: Very soon, you may wish to have kept your job in the Noldoran's court for digging up the past has never been a pleasant task.
Loved Namo's little speech about the truth and I have to admit he's entirely right.
Author's reply
You are correct in saying that not all the problems left Aman with the Noldor. I cannot imagine that what happened with the Noldor did not affect the other elves of Aman, including the Vanyar. I always thought it strange that at no time do we ever hear from Ingwë about any of this. That is why I decided it was time to write about it. Hopefully my take on the story will enlighten people (as well as entertain them).
As for Aldundil... he's not the one doing the digging... he just has to illustrate it, and that may not be any more pleasant in some cases.
I'm glad you loved Námos speech about truth and think that he is entirely right. Thanks for letting me know, Sitara. I appreciate it.
Kitty
· 8 March 2009
· Chapter 47: Illuminating the Past
They see you more as the elder brother and we all know that elder brothers were born to interfere with the fun of their younger siblings. *LOL* How true! And the same goes for big sisters, as my younger 'online-sister' keeps telling me ;)
Reading this left me feeling sorry for Finrod and Ingwion. There must have been going on a lot we don't know yet, and nothing of it pleasant. You really know how to make your readers more and more curious, do you? Though I have to admit that I fear a bit what might be behind all these dark hints, particularly about Arafinwë
On a more brighter note, loved the banter between the cousins :)
And I like Finrod's new job for Aldundil. Good idea - Aman needs this memoirs and memories, and it would be great for Aldundil to illustrate it, I think. The ellon might be more comfortable working with Finrod than staying with the Noldoran and feeling looked down upon by the others after what was revealed at the Tournament.
Author's reply
Well, I only had two older brothers and no older sisters (not even younger sisters, though I did have younger brothers so I guess that makes me an older brother as well. *grin*). Anyway, there was indeed going one a lot about which the readers are unaware at this time. I do plan to enlighten everyone with the new story. It won't be pleasant reading in some parts but I think people will enjoy the story nonetheless.
I'm sure Aldunil will be far happier in his new role as Finrod's official illuminator than he ever was working in Arafinwë's government. I'm sure the last thing he expected when he interrupted Ingwë's feast just before his son's trial that his life would change so dramatically and actually for the better.
Thalanee
· 3 March 2009
· Chapter 46: What Others Were Doing
Another funny chapter!
I couldn´t help but imagine Irmo and Este hiding behind trees or another Vala or what/whoever would be around with Finrod in King of Nargothrond- mode looking for them... ;-)
hey: brainless mortal? Right back at you, flighty elf *grin* I wonder where he picked up that phrase? Doriath? Glorfindel or Findarato wouldn´t use that expression...
I loved those family scenes (somehow I really envy them)
So when is Glorfindel finally going to drag Lisselinde into some mischief *jumping up and down like an excited elfling*?
Author's reply
Hi Thalanee. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. Yes, I imagine Sador picked up the phrase 'brainless mortal' among the elves of Doriath, who alone of the elves of Beleriand had little or no commerce with the Edain. I'm not sure if Glorfindel will drag Lisselkindë into mischief or not. If he's planning anything, he's not told me about it. *lol* We'll just have to wait and see.
Tari
· 3 March 2009
· Chapter 46: What Others Were Doing
Strong family ties are so important such as Mithlas’ care and concern for his mother and sister, to the point of not eating or sleeping, much less seeing friends.
Lord Irmo and Lady Este, as other Vala, probably need a break from the feisty Elf every now and then.
“Brainless mortal?” They insult me, the little rascals.
Having Glorfindel there with Beleg and Sador sounds like so much fun to me. “grins”
Author's reply
Families are very important in elven culture, of course, perhaps more so than among humans, so Mithlas forgetting to eat or sleep while caring for his mother and sister would not be considered unusual among elves.
Sador's 'brainless mortal' remark is probably one that he heard on occasion during his youth while living in Doriath and perhaps even in the last years of his life at the Havens of Sirion. No doubt it was on par with the same mortals referring to 'flighty elves'. *grin*
While having Glorfindel with Beleg and Sador might be a lot of fun, I doubt Tirion would survive the mayhem and mischief they would cause. *grin*
Larner
· 2 March 2009
· Chapter 46: What Others Were Doing
Appropriate resolutions to the question of what to do with Beleg and Sardos; now to see if Irmo will cool it with Finrod!
Author's reply
Hmm... I think you mean Sador *lol*
We'll see what happens between Irmo and Finrod eventually, though we have to take a peek at what is going on with Ingwion, Vorondil and Adundil first and then it's back to Glorfindel.
Kitty
· 2 March 2009
· Chapter 46: What Others Were Doing
Something wrong with the elflings always on their best behaviour? *LOL* Ingil has no idea how wrong that is! I am not sure how much he knows about Elves in general, but he clearly knows nothing about elflings! Considering the mischief the Reborn who are behaving like elflings get into, he should have a clue about real elflings!
Good of Finrod to face down the Maia. They might mean well, but I can't imagine Finrod putting up with that being watched for too long; it's making him angry, and is certainly not of much use in keeping him calm for the sake of the elflings. And it's obvious these are intimidated, yes.
"Maybe they’re hiding," Laurendil said with a smile. "They know what you’re like when you go all King of Nargothrond on them." Might be. But what a pity! Admittedly, I enjoy the fun :D
Well, I can understand that the Kings were worried. But even better I can understand Sador and Beleg. They might sometimes behave like elflings, but they have been adults before they died, in Beleg's case for a very long time, and he has been a very high ranking warrior to whom others looked for guidance. It's no wonder they don't take well to being treated like they can't leave the house without babysitter.
And the way Beleg is treated by the Teleri is not making things any better. He must feel terrible sometimes. Really, I wonder how long it will take these animosities between the elven tribes to die down ...
Anyway, their punishment promotion might prove interesting. Maybe it will help them to mature when they are taken more seriously and have something useful and responsible to do. But I guess I will have to wait and see how that works out.
Author's reply
Well, Reborn acting like elflings are exactly the same as elflings acting like elflings, so it's understandable that Ingil might be a little confused by Finrod's arguments. *grin*
Beleg is a representation of all those elves who lived in Beleriand for thousands of years beneath the stars, creating their own civilization under the rule of Elu Thingol and Melian who now find themselves looked down upon by their Teleri kin and the other Amaneldi simply because they died, usually through no fault of their own. It's even worse for them than for those Sindar who sailed and now reside on Tol Eressëa. While the Teleri welcomed their own Reborn (Olwë intimated this back in EI-1), those who died in the Kinslaying, they don't know what to do with someone like Beleg and obviously Beleg is highly frustrated by this. Hopefully, teaching the Teleri archery may go a long way to resolving this dilemma.
Independence1776
· 1 March 2009
· Chapter 46: What Others Were Doing
Laurendil sighed, looking resigned; Mithlas simply looked curious. He had yet to see Finrod in what Laurendil termed his ‘King of Nargothrond’ mood and seeing Finrod facing off a Maia was... interesting, to say the least. Interesting is a good word…
Finally Finrod takes a stand. Took him long enough!
Also glad Beleg stood up to the kings. I think they needed to be reminded of that.
Well, you’re about to be disappointed, because instead we intend to give you the responsibilities you crave and demand. Good!
Beleg snorted and Arafinwë smiled, having gotten the gist of what had been said. Olwë’s own expression was unreadable. He would wait until the ellyn left before he asked Arafinwë for a translation. *snickers*
Well, now we know what's been happening with everyone else!
Author's reply
Hi, Indy. Yes, Finrod was feeling a little intimidated himself for a while but I think he's gotten over it. *grin*
I think if Beleg were living on Tol Eressëa he wouldn't be feeling so lost. The Elves there would recognize him and his worth and treat him accordingly, even if he does act young at times as he rematures.
And we only know what has happened to some of the others. Next chapter will focus on Ingwion, Vorondil and Adundil.
Sunny
· 1 March 2009
· Chapter 46: What Others Were Doing
Seeing Finrod in a ”King of Nargothrond” mood with a Maia must be … interesting. But Finrod is right. When kids are on their best behaviour for more than a short while, something is definitely not as it should be. Finrod – being an Elf – knows this. But it is equally obvious that Ingil – being a Maia – doesn’t.
“Findaráto never makes threats, Ingil, only promises.” That little comment just says everything about Finrod, doesn’t it?
So Sador and Beleg are tired of being treated as elflings – even though they _behave_ like that sometimes. And it seems they had reasons for their frustrations – especially Beleg. For all that Olwë is kin, the Teleri are obviously quite alien to Beleg – and the Teleri were equally obviously quite unaccepting of him.
Good thing Arafinwë had an idea of what to do with the excess energy of the two miscreants. ;-)
“Correct me if I am wrong, gwador, but I think we both have just been promoted.” *snorts along with Beleg*
Author's reply
“Findaráto never makes threats, Ingil, only promises.” That little comment just says everything about Finrod, doesn’t it?
Yes, it does. *grin*
Beleg, more so than Sador, feels the slights against him. He was a respected warrior of Elu Thingol's realm, one of the best, if not the best, archers and marchwardens in all of Arda and he is snubbed and shunned as if he were some sort of freak by the Teleri, not because he is a Reborn (Olwë mentioned waaay back in EI-1 that they were already receiving Reborn but these were his own people, the victims of the Kinslaying), but because he is a Sinda with no love for the sea.
We'll see just how much Sador and Beleg enjoy their new-found responsibilities. Promotions aren't always a good thing, you know. *grin*
Sitara
· 1 March 2009
· Chapter 46: What Others Were Doing
As interesting as Glorfindel is, especially since he has a Maia to teach about the Firstborn's ways, it's nice to find out what the rest of the people have been doing in the meantime. However, I do look forward to see again everyone's favorite elfling and he being reunited with his Master. "smile"
I believe, as Ingil proved us just now, there is more than just one Maia that still doesn't understand how the Elves' minds and souls are working. Well, you warned us about this, didn't you? "grin" Even without having Lisselinde's arrogance, Ingil does not understand many things about the Eldar but I suppose having Findarato around (and in his kingly moods, if I may add) would help him a little in this matter.
Little surprise regarding Arafinwe' and Olwe's irritation and bitterness towards Beleg and Sador. Somehow, all the things are turning back to the past, it seems. Especially for Beleg. After being Thingol's best warrior and the most famous archer on Arda (I'm counting Aman too), it's not pleasant (to say it mildly) to find yourself a Reborn with the emotional reaction of an elfling of ten. On top of that, he is a Sinda, close kin to the Teleri, and has no affinity with the sea. In some manner, his dilemma seems to be the same one as Glorfindel's. He has lost his king, his friends and his purpose.
And for a reason, the Teleri are looking at him as if he just has come and serenely asked them for a ship. "laughing bitterly" Or perhaps they were mistaking him for a Noldo? "grinning bitterly"
As for a particular statement of Olwe...I'm not forgetting about it, you know.
Not in a million years. "evil grin"
Author's reply
Even the wisest of the Maiar have little insight into the hearts and souls of the Firstborn simply because they observe them from the outside and not from the inside, as it were. As Ingil points out, the few instances where the Maiar in Lórien have any contact with elflings (not the Reborn acting like them), they have not been in a position to do much running around (most likely because they broken a limb) so they have no choice but to behave. Yet, in reality, that is not the way elflings act, at least not all the time, as Finrod and Laurendil point out. So, even those Maiar, like Ingil, who are accepting of the Firstborn on their own merits, loving them and treating them with respect, are learning some things about the Elves they did not know.
Beleg is a 'microcosm' of what is ailing many of the Reborn and Returnees. They had a life, one that had value to them and those whom they loved. Now, however, that life is seen as aberrant by the Amaneldi, especially those who never left Aman even for the War of Wrath. For Beleg it's even worse because he is beginning to remember *how* he was before and is full of frustration knowing that he is no longer that person, but someone else. He will be a long time (at least by human standards) coming to terms with his new self and will need to find a new purpose and way of living along the way. That's true also of Sador, but to a lesser degree since he has returned to his first love of becoming a potter. Hopefully Arafinwë's solution will go a long way towards diffusing some of that anger and frustration into more productive venues.
Tari
· 25 February 2009
· Chapter 45: Sea-longing
To me this chapter was about healing, both physical and emotional, and that judging someone without really knowing them can be a really bad mistake. Iluvatar made everyone and they are all equal in his sight. Therefore, no one should look down his nose at another. This is something all Elves and Maia need to understand. I think both Laurendil and Lisselindë are learning this. I hope Lisselindë is leading Glorfindel to a better understanding also.
Author's reply
True, Tari. This chapter is about healing, both of hröar and fëar and the uselessness of judging others for any reason because we simply don't know where they are coming from. I don't think either Laurendil or Glorfindel are in need of learning these lessons. They have already learned them. It is Lisselindë who needs the lessoning and hopefully both Glorfindel and Laurendil will lead her to a better understanding.
Thalanee
· 24 February 2009
· Chapter 45: Sea-longing
Another lovely chapter!
+"Getting devious in our old age, are we, my lord?" he couldn’t help saying and Irmo burst out laughing.+ I really had to work holding back my laughter at that point (since I wasn´t alone in the room), but I didn´t have much success with that.
The explanation for why the Maiar are more silent +allowing that they rather enjoyed seeing the Children squirm a bit+ was hilarious. Hearing about Laurendil´s history it´s easy to see why he doesn´t get along with his father...
The part aboutMithlas and his family was touching, I nearly cried. Will we get to know what happened to his father?
I wonder if Glorfindel will drag Lisselinde into some mischief? ;-) One never knows with that ellon!
Already looking forward to the next chapter,
Greetings Thalanee
Author's reply
Hi, Thalanee. I have no idea if we will learn about the fate of Mithlas' father. At this point in time, only the Muse knows, and he ain't telling! *grin*
At any rate, I'm sure Glorfindel will be dragging Lisselindë into some kind of mischief or another and maybe even roping in Tiutalion along the way. As you say, one never knows with that ellon!
Glad you found this chapter amusing. Thanks for letting me know.