obsidianj
· 24 November 2011
· Chapter 126: Moonrise
Ingwion has done the next step on the road to healing. First was to acknowledge that he needs help and something is wrong and now, he has some hope again. That light just came at the right time for him... and for the rest of the elves as well. I think there were a lot more depressed elves who can breathe again since there is now light.
Author's reply
Hope is what they all need, not just Ingwion, and Isil is that sign of hope for them all. I'm sure that most of the Elves of Aman were in a depressive state and now they realize it's not so dark after all. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
obsidianj
· 24 November 2011
· Chapter 125: Picking Up the Pieces
Finally, Ingwe snaps. In a rather spectacular way. Luckily, none of his subjects are witnesses or he would have to apologize all over again. It was about time. He hold out longer than is healthy. High-King or no, he is also a "normal" elf and when I see what the other elves all do, he held out admirably long.
At last Ingwion acknowledges he needs help. Now someone can help him. I discovered a long time ago, you cannot help someone who thinks nothing is wrong and they don't need help.
The Valar's surprise seems to be not too welcomed by most. I think the elves had enough of surprises and are fearful for whatever new thing happens. They need to experience first that this is no new mischief.
Author's reply
Lucky, indeed, obsidanj. But Ingwë's snapping was long overdue. And acknowledging that you need help is the first step towards getting it. We know Ingwion heals, though it will take some time.
I think the Elves just didn't know what was going on with Isil rising and feared that it boded ill for them. But once they realize it's a good thing I think they'll relax their guard a bit. In one respect or another they all need healing from the trauma of having the Trees die.
Thanks for reading and reviewing. It's very much appreciated.
obsidianj
· 24 November 2011
· Chapter 124: The High King’s Justice
LOL! The picture of Namo pulling the sword out of him with no blood under the eyes of all the onlookers is priceless. I also had to laugh at the "lucky idiot" comment.
So, Ingoldo is being exiled to Tol Eressea. Poor island. Doesn't that set a precedence for future nastiness? Ingwe is a very good king to stay that calm during the proceedings and being able to judge his own brother.
Author's reply
It is pretty funny, isn't it. *grin* I had a great time writing this chapter and was laughing like an idiot the whole time.
Well, we know that Ingoldo didn't learn his lesson while living on Tol Eressëa, so there's no sympathy there, I'm afraid. Ingwë has no choice but to remain calm in public, though I have no doubt he wants nothing more than to wring his brother's neck.
Thanks for reading and reviewing, obsidianj. I very much appreciate it.
obsidianj
· 24 November 2011
· Chapter 123: The Trial Commences
Ouch! Ingwion, that was not your smartest move. But who in his right mind trusts Inwion with a sword during a trial for Ingoldo, where all the sensitive issues are discussed. There is bound to be some revelation that sets Ingwion off. And sure there is. Luckily, Namo shouldn't be troubled too much by a sword. If it would be one of the other elves the story would be different and we might have had the next kinslayer on our hands.
I liked the "punishment" for Ingoldo's reluctant followers. For some this probably seems to be a promotion. And it is easier to keep and eye on them when they are part of the household and under close supervision.
Author's reply
No, that definitely was not a smart move. Unfortunately, Ingwë and the others aren't used to dealing with someone in Ingwion's state of mind so it was an accident waiting to happen for sure.
I'm glad you liked the "punishment" meted out to Ingoldo's followers. Whether it's a promotion or not, it is certainly a second chance and that's all that's impoortant.
Thanks for reading and reviewing, obsidianj. I appreciate it.
Larner
· 23 November 2011
· Chapter 128: The Noldóran Restored
It is indeed a joy to see this day come again at last, and to see Arafinwe kneel to Ingwe, also restored to his own rightful place, receiving the oath of allegiance Feanaro refused to make. And all of this under the light of the Sun! A new age has come for Aman, and the peace of the Valar is finally once again settled over the land. But even those who left have their part to play!
Author's reply
Indeed, Larner, this day has been a long-time coming, and a new age has begun and everyone is where they are supposed to be. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it.
obsidianj
· 22 November 2011
· Chapter 122: Preparations for a Trial
Ingwion still needs a lot of healing. He might not be as volatile, but he still has trouble controlling himself.
I got the feeling Ingwe still needs to grow up some more. He came across as if he would like Manwe to hand him all answers on a platter, and maybe even take Ingoldo off his hands. So, that he wouldn't have to deal with him.
Author's reply
Hi obsidianj. Yes, Ingwion still has a lot of healing to do. I don't think Ingwë needs growing up, though. I think his reaction is very understandable, wishing someone else could handle all this. I know I would even as I'm preparing myself to handle it. This is terra incognita for Ingwë and he has never had to deal with a stiuation such as this. But we will see that with Arafinwë and Olwë's support, he will do just fine.
Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it.
obsidianj
· 22 November 2011
· Chapter 121: Funeral for a Prince
Ingwion finally acknowledges that his brother is dead. Good thing that he was at the funeral. If he had missed that he would forever berate himself when he finally healed. The funeral was beautiful and so sad. Especially for elves who until now never experienced death. Olwe and his family had, but it is still so new to all of them. It is not like in our culture where death is an integral part of life.
Author's reply
It is a good thing Ingwion acknowledges his brother's death now so he can start to heal. I'm glad you found the funeral beautiful if necessarily sad. It certainly is a new experience for these Elves and most probably had difficulty prcessing what was actually happening and then try to explain it to their children. It's tough enough when mortal parents have to; it has to be a hundred times tougher for Elves. Thanks for reading and reviewing, obsidianj. It's very much appreciated.
Larner
· 22 November 2011
· Chapter 127: Return to Tirion
At least they are making viable plans for the future, and they are heading for Tirion at a decent speed, and together. And all is quiet for the moment!
Author's reply
Very true, Larner. And they now have the wherewithal to make those plans and get on with their lives. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
obsidianj
· 22 November 2011
· Chapter 120: The Trouble with Princes
It seems as if Ingwion is slightly insane. At least I wouldn't trust him with anything without supervision at the moment. He needs a 24/7 guard on him. I think the Maia learned their lesson.
It was kind of amusing to watch Ingwe and the rest pulling their hair out trying to figure out where Ingwion went. That they didn't look in on Ingoldo sooner just shows how alien this whole situation is to them.
Author's reply
I think Ingwion is more than just slightly insane, obsidianj. LOL! And of course this whole thing is alien to them all and they don't really understand what is motivating Ingwion at this point. They'll be watching him like a hawk from now on, that's for sure. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
obsidianj
· 22 November 2011
· Chapter 119: Return to Vanyamar
So... Ingwion is not quite as meek and dazed as he pretends. He is much more influenced by the actions of Ingoldo as anyone imagined. Before Ingoldo showed him what you all can do, I don't think he would have even thought of sneaking around like that. I know he will not kill Ingoldo, but I don't think, he just wants to "chat" either.
Author's reply
Hi obsidianj. No, Ingwion has become a predator, biding his time. And "chatting" is the last thing on that ellon's mind. Thanks for reading and reviewing. It's much appreciated.
obsidianj
· 22 November 2011
· Chapter 118: Making Arrangements
Oh, boy! Ingwion is really in a bad shape. I don't think he can be left alone in the foreseeable future.
I loved Eonwe showing up to record the oath. they all, especially Ingoldo, needed a reminder that oaths are heard and they are accountable for them.
I can't stand Ingoldo. Luckily, I'm not in Ingwe's shoes. I would have a hard time being as civil as Ingwe is.
Author's reply
He is indeed, obsidianj. I don't think they will leave Ingwion alone for some time to come. Glad you liked Eonwe showing up. It was a very good visual reminder for them all. And Ingwe is the High King and unfortunately has no choice but to act civil.
Anyway, thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.
Itarille1
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 128: The Noldóran Restored
I read this on my lunch break, and what a pleasure it gave me!
Since I reached the part where Olorin suggested not to wait for Isil, I have begun to smile: Anar is coming!
I'm so glad that Anar was launched exactly at Arafinwe's coronation.
Thank you for your stories. I hope you will write more about Arafinwe.
Author's reply
Hello Itarille. I'm glad this chapter gave you a smile. I hope to write more about Arafinwë as well, but not in the immediate future. We'll have to see what the Muse says. Thanks for taking the time to read and review. I appreciate it very much.
Siiw
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 128: The Noldóran Restored
I read this in my lunch break, and got a big smile when the sun rose. So very fitting. Arafinwe has matured so much since the beginning of the story, and reminds me more of the king he is in EI now.
Did Ingwe mean that the light of Laurelin was brighter than the light of the sun, or did the elves just experience it more powerfully because the light source was closer?
This has nothing to do with this chapter, but I want to tell you this. These stories are apparently getting into my dreams! Last night, I dreamt there was a new story or chapter, and I could see the characters from above, as sprites from an old fashioned computer game, walking around. They looked exactly like I had imagined. ;p It would be fun to try to draw that...if i had any pixel art skills...
Author's reply
Hi Siiw. Arafinwë has indeed matured and will be a great king as well we know from EI, Diaries and Wedding.
I'm not sure how to answer your question about the the light of Laurelin. I think for Tolkien, that last fruit of Laurelin, while certainly bright, was nowhere as bright as it would've been had the Tree still lived. It is deriative of the "true" light brought forth by the Valar, which is why in Tolkien's mythology, there is nothing divine about the Sun or the Moon.
At any rate, I think it's interesting that you are dreaming these characters. I often which I were artistic enough to draw some of the scenes that I've written in my stories, but alas, I can only 'draw' them in my mind.
Anyway, thanks for reading and reviewing. I very much appreciate it.
Kaylee Arafinwiel
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 128: The Noldóran Restored
And so the King has returned at last...you know, this reminds me of Aragorn's entrance into Minas Tirith (wasn't it renamed Minas Anor again during Elessar's reign, or have I forgotten how that went?) to be accepted as King. I'm sure you did that deliberately, Atto. *grins*
Ah...the light of Laurelin has come! I wonder who will name it "fiery", lol. *grin* More elflings, I expect.
Tye-melin, Atto!
Kaylee
Author's reply
Hi Kaylee. And the King has indeed returned at last. And I did model this coronation somewhat on Aragorn's, figuring it was apropos to the situation. And we know they named the Sun "Anar", which is probably a corruption of "an-nár" (very fiery), so you're not too far off there. *grin*
Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
Tye-melin.
Kaylee Arafinwiel
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 127: Return to Tirion
Well, I see Ingwion prefers Tilion for the orb's name, but I still think that's too confusing, Atto. But then...you surprised me completely. I was not expecting Arafinwe to name a Vanya as his new heir. I expect I was just as surprised as he was!!! Wow. But it does make sense...lol, he's still on about the 'family discount' thing. *grin* I love Arafinwe...
I'm wondering...the kings speak together as if Olwe's younger brother wasn't on their minds. What happened to Celeborn's grandfather, Lord Elmo, in your story, Atto? I suppose he remained behind with Elwe, but Olwe doesn't seem to miss him as much...
Oh, so that's how the fostering came about! I like it. :)
Tye-melin,
Kaylee
Author's reply
Well, Kaylee, as Arafinwë points out, Intarion is of noble blood and none of the Noldorin heirs are there so he's the most logical choice.
I'm not sure why they don't speak of Elmo. Maybe he already went missing, or maybe it's just that Elwë was their leader and the people chose Olwë when the time came to depart Beleriand. Just one of those things.
Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it.
Tye-melin.
Kaylee Arafinwiel
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 126: Moonrise
Atto,
It seems Isil has risen indeed. I'm sure Arafinwe's prediction will come true, and "Sheen" will be something an elfling comes up with rather than a loremaster, lol. I wonder just which elfling? I am glad to see it has helped to restore some of Ingwion's hope.
Author's reply
Hi Kaylee. We'll see if Arafinwë's prediction comes true or not soon enough. *grin* And the light certainly has helped Ingwion to feel hopeful again.
Thanks for reading and reviewing. It's much appreciated.
Tye-melin.
Kaylee Arafinwiel
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 125: Picking Up the Pieces
Atto,
I don't think my review last time worked so I'm trying again. *sigh* So Isil's finally risen. They haven't named it yet, but I like Isil as a name better than, say, Telperiontelulosse (which I probably mangled badly, but I'm sure you know what I mean, lol.) Even naming it "Tilion" would be confusing, as the Maia is Tilion and his vessel isn't. *snicker*
Also, it was about time for Ingwe to go crazy. I'm just sorry for all the Vanyar right now...but at least Isil's rising will change things. I take it this means the Exiled Noldor have reached their destination?
Tye-melin, Atto.
Kaylee
Author's reply
Hi Kaylee. I like Isil, too. Those Valarin names are real jawbreakers. *grin*
And yes, at this point in time everyone is where they are meant to be and even as Isil is rising, Nolofinwë is bringing his people to the shores of Beleriand.
Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
Tye-melin.
Kaylee Arafinwiel
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 124: The High King’s Justice
Atto,
Sorry for taking so abysmally long to review. Now's my time to play catch-up, lol. (And when I should be packing to go to my sister's, too...we're leaving on Wednesday and staying until at least Saturday morning.) This chapter took a while to settle in my head though. Why Tol Eressea, I wonder? It makes me worry what kind of havoc Ingoldo and his guard could start away from Ingwe's watchful eyes...I think Lord Orome's forest might have been the better option.
But the first part of the chapter made me laugh hysterically for several minutes. Trust Namo to complain about what Vaire would say to him!!!
*snicker*
Oh, Namo, I love you. =D Hehehehe.
Anyway, Ratty may be being put out of the way, but I doubt he'll stop causing trouble...he'll just start doing it elsewhere. Even if there's nothing on Tol Eressea now, that doesn't mean it'll stay empty forever. We know it won't.
Well, off to review the next chapter, Atto. :)
Tye-melin,
Kaylee
Author's reply
Finally, someone who actually found Námo hysterically funny here. I was beginning to wonder. LOL! Anyway, Tol Eressëa is deserted at this time so Ingoldo and his servant will be all alone on the island. There is very little mischief they can get into and the Maiar will keep an eye on them. And Ingoldo's exile will end before the Valar turn the island over to the Returnees.
Thanks for reviewing, Kaylee. I appreciate it very much.
Tye-melin.
Fantasia
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 128: The Noldóran Restored
Fiondil,
This was beautiful. I almost cry with Arafinwë words to Ingwion. And I can kiss those Valars now, what a perfect timing for the Sun...A glorious sunrise.
I didn't comment last week, but I read all your stories (was out of town, used my precious internet time for reading, great chapters)
Author's reply
Hi Fantasia. I'm glad you're happy with the Valar. Sometime they get things right. LOL!
Thanks for reading and reviewing and I'm glad you liked the other chapters as well. I appreciate you letting me know.
Sunny
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 128: The Noldóran Restored
I was quite certain that the coronation of arafinwë would coincide with the first rising of anar. and I was right! :-D and Olórin was giving excellent advice - you could almost think he knew what was on the schedule beforehand1 ;-)
I also liked the way Arafinwë pulled the people back to the matter at hand (his coronation) when the sun rose and everybody was really more interested in admiring the new celestial light. And I am certain that the way he asked Ingwion to put the crown upon his head helped his nephew to heal and regain some confidence.
Btw, you missed out one instance of "the last _flower_ of Laurelin, in the section beginning with "Herenaráto laughed in delight".
Author's reply
Thanks, Sunny. I forgot about that and made the correction. And I'm sure Olórin was well aware of when the Valar were planning to launch Anar, which is why he gave the advice that he did. *grin*
Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it.
6336
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 128: The Noldóran Restored
Beautiful ceremony, especially the light show!
Well now we know why Olorin did not want the schedule rearranged, not quite the same affect if Anar rose brfore Arafinwe got there!
Maia are such handy folk to have around, especially when it comes to fetching bits and bobs for one!
I am sorry to see this coming to a conclusion, it was a hard read in some places but very worthwhile. Will you be taking a break or do you have something else in the works? I will admit reading this story has got me up and out of bed on Mondays and Fridays for a long time now, I will miss the 'encouragement'!
Huggs,
Lynda
Author's reply
Hi Lynda. I'm glad you liked the ceremony.
Well, at least you still have an excuse to get up on Wednesday for a while. LOL! As soon as I feel I have enough chapters going, I will start posting the sequel to Elf Academy but I'm afraid people will have to wait until after the New Year for it.
Anyway, thanks for reading and reviewing. It's much appreciated.
Rhyselle
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 128: The Noldóran Restored
No time for an exhaustive review, but I had to tell you how very much I loved this! And the timing of the rising of the Sun (and the waking of the Second-born over there in Middle-earth!) was just perfect.
I love the thought that the Valar arranged it just so to time it to Arafinwe's coronation. It was a lovely symbolism of the dawn of his reign, and how it would be so much brighter than that of those who had gone before him. :)
And I loved what Arafinwe did for Ingwion when he asked him to place the crown on his (Arafinwe's) head. I could just feel Ingwion's fea healing a bit more upon hearing those words. :)
Hard to believe that this tale is coming to its end. It's been a wonderful journey through the years of the Darkening even though many parts of it made me weep and mourn, and I loved getting to know my favorite characters better.
Now I can hardly wait to see the first chapter of the sequel to Elf Academy! :)
Well done, my dear friend! Well done!
Author's reply
Hi Rhyselle. I'm glad to know you loved this chapter and the Sun's rising is indeed symbolic of many new beginnings for many. I think what Arafinwë did for Ingwion went a long way towards helping the ellon heal.
And yes, just one more chapter to wrap things up. But at least there is A Long-Expected Wedding to look forward to on Wednesdays. It will be some while though before I am ready to begin posting the sequel to Elf Academy, so people will just have to be content with Wedding until then.
Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
Sunny
· 21 November 2011
· Chapter 128: The Noldóran Restored
Anar was the last _fruit_ of Laurelin, as far as I remember. I'll probably comment more later, but I thought I should point out this error
Author's reply
Thanks for the correction. I keep getting those two mixed up. *grin*
obsidianj
· 20 November 2011
· Chapter 117: Aftermath
Ok, what now? It seems this was just a little respite before the next crisis hits. I love the picture of the Maia taking over the kitchen and Marillien ordering Ingwe around.
Author's reply
Ack! I can't believe I missed this one too. I'm glad you loved the picture of the Maiar taking over the kitchen and Marilliën ordering Ingwë around. She's a favorite of mine, as you can probably guess. *grin* Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
obsidianj
· 20 November 2011
· Chapter 116: The Hunt for Ingwion
They got Ingwion back, to much relief on their part. Whether Ingwion sees it as a good thing when he wakes up to reality is another story. He has a long road ahead of him. I think Ingalaure will return once Ingwion is reconciled with all that happened and that will take a long time. Much longer since Ingwion does not understand that this is as much about him as about Inagalaure.
Author's reply
Yes, they got him back. Whether Ingwion will see it as a good thing or not remains to be seen. And we know that Ingalaurë doesn't return until after Ingwion has reconciled himself to what has happened and let go of his anger. But with the help of a certain Balrog-slayer and a certain former king of Nargothrond, he'll get there. *grin* Thanks for reading and reviewing, obsidianj. I much appreciate it.