Elf Academy by Fiondil

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Imhiriel · 6 September 2010 · Chapter 16: Dear Santa

I had not planned on leaving reviews as I was reading this story, but now I had to come out of "hiding" to tell you how much I enjoy it - Glorfindel showing of the Elvish script, with Daeron, of all people, standing beside him, was just too much to keept silent any longer. I wonder if Daeron will ding Glorfindel in private for plagiarising *g*... I love all those little details lovingly tucked in, from the actions and memories of the Elves (the twins' Mickey Mouse clock!), to the interaction with the Mortals, to the school (the Halloween party), to the many duties that encompasses their future jobs.

Author's reply

Hi Imhíriel. This is a pleasant surprise as it's been so long since I finished this tale. You're the first reviewer to even mention the fact that Daeron is standing right there when Glorfindel claims to have 'made up the elvish alphabet'. I'm sure the two had a good laugh over that later. And the Mickey Mouse clock. You're only the second person to mention it. I thought it was such a fun little detail and so typical of the Twins, so I'm glad someone took note of it. You can imagine that I had fun tucking in such little details and wondering if anyone would catch them. I'm glad you did and I'm glad you 'came out of hiding' to tell me. *grin* Thanks for reading and reviewing.

6336 · 13 April 2010 · Chapter 16: Dear Santa

Been rereading this and wonder if I can make a guess at the two other times Glorfindel has had to use a Word of Power:- a certain Witch King out of Angmar and at the Fords of the Bruinen to chase off the Nine. Lynda

Author's reply

Hi, Lynda. Funny, I was just re-reading this story myself last week. *grin* I suspect that you are correct about the two other times. Certainly, I mention his use of a Song of Power at the Fords of Bruinen in my Tapestry story "TALLER: True Lies" and I think he might well have used it against the Witch-King. Why else would that one have fled from him?

Edlyn · 16 March 2010 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves

Fabulous story! I want to go be a student at the Elf Academy! I wonder if any of my Wright State credits would transfer? I'm working on getting caught up with your stories in between work, classes, and SCA activities and hope you are doing well. May your path be blessed, Edlyn

Author's reply

Thanks, Edlyn. I'm glad you finally got the chance to read this and enjoyed it. I'm sure we would all like to be a student at the Elf Academy with or without credit transfers. *grin* May your path be blessed as well.

someone · 5 February 2010 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves

So... They're not coming to Finland? Great story, Fiondil :D. I have truly enjoyed reading it. I was so sure that the watcher in the woods was a group of wood-elves, perhaps Thranduil and some others, but it never even crossed my mind that it could be Oromë! Thank you for writing this. (I did read this when you posted it, but this review is a bit late :D.)

Author's reply

Better late than never, as they say. *grin* Surprised you about Oromë, did I? *grin* Good. I know people had their pet theories about who the Watcher(s) might be and none of them guessed the Lord of Forests. Thanks for taking the time to leave a review and letting me know how much you enjoyed this story. I really appreciate it.

Tari · 1 February 2010 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves

Oh, no!!!!!! This can't be the end. There is so much more to say, like how many more mortals will enter the acadamy and what happens in the end. Will more Elves show up? Will the Valar come to earth again? This is more like a cliffhanger than the end. I had hoped to read about their weapons training. I shall deeply miss the Elf Academy.

Author's reply

Hi, Tari. Well the story had to end sometime and I had a specific goal in mind when writing it in terms of how it would end (with the Elves in charge of the Academy) and when (at the end of the holiday season). But not to worry. There may yet be a sequel though it might not be any time soon. Enough people have clamored for one that I feel it is only fair to write one but as I have other projects that I am working on at the moment, a sequel will have to wait until I have more time to think about it. Thanks for reading and reviewing this story, Tari. I've enjoyed your commments very much.

Tari · 29 January 2010 · Chapter 19: An Unexpected Encounter

Okay. Where do I go and when can I sign up? I can be ready ASAP. "Sigh" If only it were real.

Author's reply

If only indeed! *grin*

Sulwing of Mirkwood · 29 January 2010 · Chapter 18: Blizzard

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :) The elves revealed themselves! And it was Glorfindel who gave them away in the end, lol! That scene gave me chills up and down my spine. I guess it was time for them to reveal themselves, only as elves will they be able to find Zach's group. I'm wondering what will happen after they find them though. "Are we hunting orcs, my lord, or looking for lost children?" "I just don't fancy having my hair blown in my eyes." Haha, certainly hope it's only the latter, don't know where the orcs would have been hiding all these years, but you never know...I think Glorifindel is just ready for everything to be like it was eons ago. "And when an Elf-lord gives his word, he means it. Only death will stop him from fulfilling his oath." "And sometimes not even then." So true, especially if the elf lord is Glorfindel! Heh-heh, kind of behind reading the chapters but I'll get there eventually. :)

Author's reply

Hi, Sulwing. No problem about being behind. Read at your own pace. I'm glad you liked this chapter and the revealing. Trust Glorfindel to do it in style. *grin* Next chapter will show what happens when Zach and the others are found. I'm sure you'll be very surprised at what they find.

Tari · 26 January 2010 · Chapter 18: Blizzard

Wow!! I never saw that coming. I didn't know if the Elves would ever reveal who they truly were, much less this soon. That had to be a real shock to the Mortals. Can you imagine what it would be like to have someone tell you they were immune to the cold and then see them walking on the snow. I suspect some of the people knew there was something different about the Elves; they just didn't know what. What fun. I can't wait to see what happens next.

Author's reply

Well, they were bound to reveal themselves eventually given the circumstances. *grin* I'm sure a number of people started putting things together that separately did not mean a whole lot at the time but now could see things in a different light. Glad you're still reading, Tari. Almost at the end.

Tari · 22 January 2010 · Chapter 17: Final Exam

What a truly magical day for the Michaelsons; one they will never forget. Little do they know the reality of what they heard. This is another reason why I dearly love the Elves. They have always been my favorite inhabitants of Middle-earth.

Author's reply

It was a magical day for everyone, including Glorfindel, I think, being able to be himself even if no one actually realized it. The Elves have always been my favorite inhabitants of Middle-earth, too, which is why I have so much fun writing about them.

Nélindë Greycloak · 19 January 2010 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves

Incredible! I do hope that you write more along this line! I really have enjoyed this story-and the unexpected twist on the last chapters was intriguing! I do hope that you reveal the mystery of the tarn in a later story. Keep up the great writing! Nélindë

Author's reply

Hello, Nélindë. Thank you so much for leaving me a review of this story and letting me know how much you enjoyed it. I really appreciate it. I think that I must bow to my readers and produce a sequel of some sort eventually, perhaps for next Christmas. It all depends on the Muse.

Eärillë · 17 January 2010 · Chapter 19: An Unexpected Encounter

Oops. No, Fiondil. The chapter was not wordy. And I am sorry that I can only clarify it now... It was actually nice. I think my wording gave that impression. What I meant is that all the information - well, most of it - was creepy. :sheepish: To me, at least. That is what I meant by "morbid" too... And again, sorry. - Rey PS: I do still hope you will consider a sequel. :)

Author's reply

Okay. That makes more sense. Obviously, the thought of the Dagor Dagorath coming can be creepy.

Tari · 15 January 2010 · Chapter 15: ‘Poor Jud Is Dead’

Jud is very creative. I loved his use of the coffin and knew where the song came from after the first two lines. The new wording was priceless. Your wording makes it very easy to picture the whole scene. I imagine the sight of the Elves' "costumes" would leave anyone speechless. I wouldn't mind dressing like that myself.

Author's reply

Hi, Tari. I am glad you enjoyed this chapter and thanks for letting me know that my wording made it very easy to picture the whole scene. That means a lot to me as a writer. And I wouldn't mind dressing like the Elves myself. *grin*

Arwen75 · 13 January 2010 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves

As with others I left reviewing this till it ended...but I was somewhat impatient waiting for the new chapters and enjoyed the entrie story immensely. Read the last two chapters on a dodgy Internet conenction in Egypt...hence the delay in reviewing. I really loved the way you weaved so much into the story, although liek others I would love to see more about what happens now - a series of short stories would be wonderful if you cannot find the time for another story. Like others I was a litte hestitant over Elves in the modern world, but what you have done works so well, and now I want to know how things proceed with the training etc. But also lookinf forward to the continuation of your Aman stories as well however. I re-read Glorfindel part 1 while in Egypt on my e-book reader, and am now making my way through part 2 again to remin myself of the story while I wait for the new chapters to appear.

Author's reply

Well I haven't been to Egypt but I know all about dodgy internet connections from overseas. *grin* Anyway, I am glad you were able to read this and that you enjoyed it. I think there will be some kind of sequel to this but what format it will take is unknown at this time. Just don't hold your breath, because it won't be any time soon unfortunately as I have my Aman stories to finish up first. Thanks for letting me know how much you enjoyed this story and are enjoying my Aman stories, Arwen. I really appreciate it.

Tari · 12 January 2010 · Chapter 14: Into the Wilderness

Weren't they lucky to have an Elf with them. All it took was a quiet touch to calm the wolves. Some humans might be able to do this, but none could read the mind of a animal. I'll bet the humans will be talking about this for a long time.

Author's reply

No doubt they will be, Tari. They were lucky to have Glorfindel there, though any of the other Elves would have done.

Eärillë · 12 January 2010 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves

Aaaaahh... What was the creepy being in the tarn? *grumble* You left several loose threads hanging still... The conclusion was neat, though. (Or rather, the Valar's work was neat... and secret. :)) I wish you went deeper for the reactions of the mortals... Nimrodel's reunion with Amroth was quite a pleasant surprise, though. I forwent my hope of seeing Amroth there when you said he was not there. Meany Fiondil! :P But now I am very sleepy... It is 1:15 AM and I do have a class to teach tomorrow afternoon. So, well, I do hope you will at least give it a try on a short sequel... Pretty pretty please? - Rey PS: The mortals being the Elves' assistants was cool. :)

Author's reply

Not every thread can be tied up, especially when the Elves themselves don't know the answer. And given the parameters of the story (Glorfindel's pov and the limitation of chapters to fit within the holiday season) I wasn't able to explore as deeply as I would have liked the reactions of the Mortals and all. Perhaps if I do write a sequel I will be able to do so. At any rate, I am happy that you enjoyed the story and I thank you for your reviews. They were much appreciated.

Eärillë · 12 January 2010 · Chapter 19: An Unexpected Encounter

*wince* All the information... Morbid. But it was oddly fascinating in a way. There was a play of sharp emotions here from the Elf, Interrupted universe. I firstly thought it was Namo, but then you gave the eyes away and I realised who the male was. LOL I kept expecting bad things to happen or that the Elves would meet some of the Valar because of the title but not this! You executed the chapter quite well. I found myself, again, immersed in the search and the anxiety they felt. Caleb was a fresh change from all the tension and dark conversations... Zach did admirably well, as Glorfindel said. Dunno, but I half-thought he would not have done that well... I guess I underestimated him. Shameful, really! The announcement that Dagor Dagorath was near made my skin crawl. Unfortunately the people there - and in turn, the readers - were not told about who the 'watcher in the water' was... *glare sulkily* I suspected the Valar's part in getting all the six Elves sacked, but I did not expect them to meddle with the mortals too. Now that the events took a darker tone, the job as elf guides did the same. I wish you would expand it to when the Elves and their friends tried to do what Manwe had bidden them to do... It would have been interesting, to say the least, and the 'ride' would be a rollercoaster one. Consider a short sequel, please? :puppy-dog eyes: LOL As light as the story has been, it ends on a serious note... Well, I think, I like this best. *grin* Now to the last chapter! (Yippy! I don't have to finish it tomorrow... I am so, so curious...) - Rey

Author's reply

I'm not sure why you would think the information imparted by the Valar to the Elves to be morbid and I do not think I made the chapter too wordy in that regard. I try to give just the information that is needed for the reader, but clearly, within the story itself, the information was needful to be given to the Elves and Mortals so they would understand what was truly happening. Zach, I think, was underestimated by a number of readers who saw only his stuttering and equated that with ineptness. A common thing to do when confronted with people with even the most minor of disabilities. And you know me... as light as I make things I like to insert a note of seriousness because that is the way life is.

Eärillë · 12 January 2010 · Chapter 18: Blizzard

Oh! Well, I admit that I held my breath for a bad reaction from the mortals... Glad that they did not react that badly, though. The children were most sweet in that case... Always the readier to believe what looks like nonsense to them. I wonder if the Michaelsons would realise what Glorfindel had spouted out to them? I am suitably impressed by Paul's sense of weather. I guess rangers had their own ways to predict it... but I am still impressed. I wonder if it is true in the real life... LOL But his words brought a sense of deja vu to me. Very similar to one of the peredhil twins! But now I realised that I had been misspelling Zach's name... *wince* Bad me. I hope Zach and his group were okay... I wonder what they were experiencing. When I hoped for a good glimpse to the others' experiences, I certainly did not mean this! *grin* But the revellation - the much-awaited revellation - was executed well. I say the Elves enjoyed it immensely! Having their covers blown up by themselves must feel good for them. Plus then they could rescue Zach and his group without the hindrance of their pretences. I hope they would reveal that their names were what their name-tags showed... Their friends deserved to know everything, at least. And I hope Paul would accept the sudden claim to immortality too. I'd hate to lose him! LOL Rolland's like a petulant child here... *grin* The tension throughout the chapter was palpable, and I found myself tensing together with the Elves and their friends - their remaining friends, at least. You did it quite well... but I still despise the feeling. Heheh. It was like waiting for my friend to come back from the blizard but knowing that it was not as easy as it seemed! That was horrible... I first thought that they would use the van. Silly me. Glorfindel's idea to run with that makeshift pack was a bit... risky, though. I hope they encountered nothing unpleasant along the way, or that they would experience it themselves... But knowing them, they probably would. *sigh* Well. Two chapters more... I hope I can finish this story in one go. Things are getting more and more interesting and I'd hate to sleep on the knowledge that I could have sorted out the big mystery and seen the loose thread tied off! *grin* - Rey

Author's reply

I think most of the Mortals were too stunned at first to really react and then when it began to sink in most I think would have felt wonder rather than fear. I am glad that you could feel the tension throughout the chapter. It is the reaction I wanted to evoke in the reader, as if they were there with everyone else wondering if their friends are safe.

Eärillë · 12 January 2010 · Chapter 17: Final Exam

Crossing fingers and toes? Hahahahaha! Who have ever heard that particular phrase... *grin* Great! I found another similarly-tickling statement, but I forget which it was... The preparations leading to the tour was very interesting - and exciting! LOL And Deirdre made an appearance... I missed her and the other - Merry? (LOL I have even forgotten her name...) The tour was even more fascinating! I found myself in the shoes of the family volunteering to go with Glorfindel. They were so lucky! *grin* Will the experiences of the other people be told, though? Hmm. I think I will soon found out... And about leaking out hints/secrets of what is to come... Heheh. It is just the readers being cheeky, I suppose. *grin* Including me! ;) Glorfindel's thoughtfulness regarding the meal and stories, and his treatment on the children (and their parents, to an extent) was quite touching. I did not think that he would be so close to them... LOL And Andi partook in the marshmallo-toasting and the request for singing! Glorfindel got him hooked. And to think that he had thought Glorfindel was nervous... I had to refresh my memory on the handbook. It was not mentioned before this along the stretch of the story. Thankfully it was rather self-explanatory. I wonder how Glorfindel coaxed the hare to appear briefly... Certainly it was a delight to the children. The scene in the grotto and Glorfindel's talk with Dave about Santa moved me. You dealt with them in a very deep but gentle and somehow light manner. I love it. The things Glorfindel showed or taught the family (or the children, specifically) made me wonder about his exposing himself... before I realised that Tolkien's works never occured in that universe. It was interesting, to say the least, to see the family's reactions to his mannerisms, words, and even song and tales. Great! And now I am on to the next chapter... - Rey

Author's reply

I think Glorfindel was having fun being himself without anyone actually knowing that he wasn't pretending. Ans Elves love children anyway so he would naturally treat them as he did. I am sure that the other Elves when doing their tours felt the same as he and acted accordingly.

Ces · 11 January 2010 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves

First of all let me apologize for not reviewing every chapter, but after the third chapter I saved the rest until the story was complete - I wanted to read it non-stop. And I'm glad I did! This ranks up there as one of your best stories; entertaining, educational and enlightening! You transport me right to Wiseman and I feel as though I'm part of that community. I know I definitely WANT to be one of the crowd surrounding Glorfindel and the others! Lord Manwe was a total surprise to me - I expected Namo to be there waiting to greet Glorfindel. I hope there's a sequel someday of a sort - I'd love to know how it all ends. The only thing missing from the story was my all time favorite elf Legolas but at least he was mentioned - and I'm quite hopeful you will satisfy my curiosity and write a story about Glorfindel's misplaced second-best sword? Oh, and do any of the elves that sailed get to come back and help in the final battle? I mean Thranduil could teach tracking in the forests and Legolas could be the archery instructor!

Author's reply

Hi, Ces. No problem. I sometimes will wait until the last chapter of a story before leaving a review rather than reviewing every chapter especially when I don't really have the time. I am just glad that you enjoyed the story and that you think it's one of my best. I really enjoyed writing it and as for a sequel, I'm not saying no to one but at the moment I have other projects I need to work on first. So thanks for letting me know how much you enjoyed this story. I really appreciate it.

Kitty · 10 January 2010 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves

I was cheering Nicole and Ralph on when they contradicted Beth about Zach's singing! You know, I'm beginning to dislike Beth ... Oh, I'd have loved to be there, listening to the Elves telling their stories. That must have been a magical night. And I have to say, the people of Wiseman and the Academy took the stories – and particularly the part about changing the Academy to prepare for the Dagor Dagorath – pretty well. Jud is really good! That's a perfect solution – give everyone pointy ears and people will tire of making a big deal about that or searching for the real Elves quite fast! I was glad you gave at least a summary how things continued. It was great that Amroth turned up and Nimrodel was finally reunited with her lover after all these long ages! And I like the way the Academy changed and would like to see more details about that. But for now I'll stop badgering you; after all, you are spoiling your readers rotten with all the stories and regular updates. Now, if I just knew where to sign up for that Academy! Even with the Dagor Dagorath looming, it would be interesting. Thank you so much for a wonderful story and Christmas gift! I have enjoyed it very much and will miss this story, it was so much fun! And I appreciated the frequent updates.

Author's reply

Well, not everyone is going to be likable. *grin* As for the people of Wiseman taking the Elves pretty well... I think the fact that they were there in the flesh helped. It's hard to scoff at myths and legends that are in your face. I know some readers were not sure about Jud at first, but I think he's redeemed himself quite nicely here. *grin* Since this story was deliberately written (and posted) for the holiday season, I could not go into great detail of what happened afterwards, hence the summary of things. I suspect that the establishment of the Haven and changing the Academy would be a story in and of itself. I am sure that it wasn't all smooth sailing for them but the parameters of what I wished to accomplish necessitated my glossing over these things so as to write about the ultimate point of the story -- the establishment of a true Elf Academy run by real Elves in preparation for the Dagor Dagorath. Anyway, I am glad you enjoyed this story. It was my pleasure to write it and to share it with all my friends. And while this story is over there are still two other stories that you can read and I am planning to also post more Tales from Vaire's Loom, one such tale a month. So that's something to look forward to, isn't it? *grin* Thanks, Kitty, for taking the time to review this and my other stories. I greatly appreciate it.

Sulwing of Mirkwood · 8 January 2010 · Chapter 17: Final Exam

Thinking, a dangerous occupation--especially if Glorfindel is the one doing it! Of course, Glorfindel did an amazing job on his exam. First he talked more like he would as an elf anyway and he also knew just how to capture the kids' attention. (And he would have twins in his group.) I loved when Glorfindel sang about Elbereth, and the kids seemed to as well. There's something about Santa though...

Author's reply

I think Glorfindel enjoyed being himself even if the Mortals thought he was acting the part. As for Santa... he may have simply been a very perceptive and compassionate Mortal (there actually are a few of those around even today *grin*) and nothing else... then again....

Sulwing of Mirkwood · 8 January 2010 · Chapter 16: Dear Santa

It's really cool how the elves are turning everything they can into something that is actually M-E elvish. And I totally cracked up over "Murderous snowmen led by Frosty who’s turned evil because he’s wearing the wrong hat.” lol Elrohir would say something like that. :)

Author's reply

Even when they try not to, it seems the universe is conspiring to make them act more and more elvish. I'm glad you liked the murderous snowmen. You're the first to even comment on it and I thought it was one of the funniest things any of the Elves had come up with and shows how they are pat of the modern Mortal culture. And yes, it's just what Elrohir would say, isn't it? *grin* Thanks for reviewing Sulwing. I really appreciate it.

Selene Aduial · 7 January 2010 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves

I just found this story today, and I must say that you did a wonderful job, but then again you always do. I will just pitch my voice with the rest of the chorus for more. I am always very happy to find any new chapter by you. It doesn't matter which of your stories it belongs to. Many thanks Selene

Author's reply

Hello Selene. Thank you so very much for leaving me this review. I so appreciate you letting me know how much you enjoyed this story as well as my other stories. It is possible that there will be a sequel later, but not immediately. Other writing projects are taking up my time at the present.

Eärillë · 7 January 2010 · Chapter 16: Dear Santa

Oh. What was Glorfindel recalling when the Elves were talking about the Words of Power? That competition-gone-wrong in Book 2 of Elf, Interrupted? The one in which Finrod was recalling his battle with the Songs of Power with Sauron and Glorfindel parried with the same weapon? And what about the reference to a friend during the night? Was it the same with the one in Book 1 of Elf, Interrupted? But then the other Elves should not have known about that... should they? Whoaa. Glorfindel took control again... LOL I think I will cease to be amazed somewhere in the story! (But so far I have not. Hmm. One might wonder why... *grin*) What he did was neat, though. (Hah! Elf-path and Elf-light... Wow. LOL But I thought the signs would have more obscure than candles...) I love the making-fire-in-the-snow thing. Is it real, though? Thought I might insert it somewhere in my story if that was true... :uncertain: LOL Zacque-Finrod suddenly had 'fans'... and many get-well-soon gifts! I understand why he wanted to reply to children's letters, though. That must be refreshing, reading so many innocent elaborations of the hopeful little ones. :) It compensates well with the childish scroll. LOL (One would say... chicken-foot scroll...) The impromptu snowball fight was a pleasant surprise. Who knew if Glorfindel could act like an Elfling like that! Hahahaha! It has been great so far. I itch to just go ahead and read the next chapter... but I have been yawning widely every so often now, so I guess I ought to stop here and pick on where I left when I am able next time. :) So see you! - Rey

Author's reply

Yes, Glorfindel was recalling the tournament that ended so disastrously for him and Finrod. As for the reference to a friend in the night, I am sure that in the long millennia of their acquaintance, each of the Elves shared their stories with the others and Glorfindel naturally would tell them something about what it was like to be a Reborn. The making fire in snow is real. You can google for the information, which is what I did. *grin*

Eärillë · 7 January 2010 · Chapter 15: ‘Poor Jud Is Dead’

Ahahahahaha! I was taken aback with the title... but then... Wow... Hahahahaha! Well, yes, trust a mortal to play about death... What I forgot to mention in the last chapter (I think): Mickey Mouse clock! The pride and joy of the twins? *rolling on the floor laughing* Whoaa. A suspiciously localised snowfall? Hmm. *wink* What did you mean by illegal campers, though? I thought they could camp wherever they wanted whenever? But well, if it was in a national park area... I did not expect the Elves to dress themselves in their old attires. Then again, it made much sense. I was surprised too that they kept many things from their old lives. They looked and behaved so sophisticatedly... Surprised too when Rachel (Is she not?) courtsied. Wonder if Glorfindel truly looked like a king then. Thought people forgot much of how to courtsy. People bow still, yes, but even female performers usually bow, not courtsy. It was still quite amusing, though. :) You did have many amusing-but-in-another-sort-of-way things in this story. It makes it very unique - and endearing. :) The feeling of friendship was quite palpable when they took a ride in Glorfindel's mini-van. But, for the life of me, I do not know why they suddenly wanted to take a trip to the town via a vehicle. They usually just walked. It was good, though, because then Jud had that crazy idea. *grin* That one scene was one of my favourites in this chapter. I laughed when Lily resigned herself to crouching instead of sitting on Daeron's lap. Seeing her and Zacque's reactions to things were always interesting, in the least. Why was Glorfindel set about Finrod and the others being in the ether? Should it not be the realm of the spirits, of the dead, of the afterlife? But Aman is not like that, is it? He should have known better. :uncertain: It gave the impression that Finrod and the others were dead... A bit unnerving. - Rey

Author's reply

They probably drove into town because for the Mortals it was getting too cold to walk in comfort. And Lily did sit on Daeron's lap. It was Jud who was forced to crouch on the floor because there was no more seat room. As for the thing with Finrod.... you are misinterpreting what Glorfindel and Daeron were talking about. While Halloween is indeed the Day of the Dead, in earlier Celtic lore, it was one of the days where the walls between worlds were thinnest. That means, not just the barrier between the living and the dead but also between the mortal world and the world of Tir na Nog, the Blessed Realm of the gods and elves of Celtic legend. Glorfindel and Daeron are merely speculating if those of Aman are aware of what they are doing and if they approve of them. Author Reply: Oh, and I am glad you liked the Mickey Mouse clock. You're the first person to even mention it in a review. Thanks for noticing it. I thought it was a fun little detail myself. *grin*