obsidianj
· 5 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
I don't think this was the bonding experience Glorfindel had in mind when he sent the 3 elves and 2 mortals on this little trip. These youngsters need a stern lecture. What were they thinking or rather not thinking. They need to learn a lot about mortals *shakes head*.
Author's reply
Hi obsidianj. No, I don't think this is what Glorfindel had in mind when he sent them off. We'll see what happens to the three Elves in the next chapter and how they are punished. Thanks for reviewing. It's always appreciated.
obsidianj
· 5 August 2012
· Chapter 56: Getting Acquainted
LOL! This chapter had me is stitches. Ninja-squirrels and killer rabbits, indeed. The 3 Stooges will have some adjusting to do and so have Alex and Derek. The differences in ages are mind boggling. I guess, the mortals just have to ignore the "official" age and see how the elves act.
Author's reply
Hi obsidianj. It is a pretty funny chapter. They all have a great deal of adjusting ahead of them, Elves (both kinds) and Mortals, alike. And you're right that the Mortals will end up judging the Elves (or at least the Three Stooges) on how they act, which is the best way, since age is no indicator of either maturity or wisdom. After all, how many people have you met in your life who, in spite of their age, are neither mature nor wise? Anyway, thanks for reviewing. It's greatly appreciated.
Serinde
· 5 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
O dear, dear. Were I not so angry I would start to pity the Three Stooges. They do not have clue what they've unleashed. Finrod must be beyond simply furious. He must be comparing his son arogance with that of Feanaro's sons.
On one level one can understand the boys. They expected an advantures and worm wellcome. But there is no welcome committee, fireworks and flowers.
Humans do not look like Tuor or Aragorn. They are clumsy and smelly and do not show respect, which royal brats expect.
And even worst one of the clumsy humans bested Moe in front of his friends. So the brats decided to proove how stupid humans realy are.
This I can understand, but it is incredible that they continued with the stunt even when Alex was freezing to death.
I hope Finrod will force them to take the sleeping Alex to the camp on their backs.
Author's reply
Hi Serindë. I think your analysis of the motives of the Three Stooges is very astute and right on target. And Finrod is way beyond furious at his son's arrogance and cruelty. We will see how the younger Elves are dealt with once they get back to camp and are assured that both Alex and Derek are still in the land of the living. Thanks for taking the time to read and review. It's much appreciated.
someone
· 5 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
How can people who are that old be so irresponsible and idiotic?! Hiding and just letting the other worry and nearly freeze to death... I hope Finrod and the others will not let them get away with that too easily. And considering the circumstances, Alex' conjugations practice was quite understandable and funny.
Author's reply
Hi someone. I'm afraid these particular Elves are very immature and just plain clueless about Mortals. We'll see what Finrod does with them in the next chapter. I'm glad you thought the conjugations practice funny. To me, it's the best part of the chapter. *grin* Thanks for leaving a comment. I appreciate it.
Lyana
· 4 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
LOL - that verb conjugation exercise was inspired!
Oh boy - those three "boys" have NO clue what they've just unleashed in Finrod... He's proved to be tremendously creative in meting out consequences to fit the crime; I'm sure that Glorfindel's no slouch either, and that's just two of the dozen ellyn who would happily cue up for a pounding! I don't know that there will be much for Alex and Derek to chew on when everyone else gets through with them - maybe it's better that way. I can't help but think that it grieves Finrod very much to see his son behaving this way. Then again, he may be well aware that Findalaure is a snot-brat in need of some hard life lessons to smarten him up (over-indulged youngest, perhaps?). Either way, it's not going be fun for either of them.
And I'm firmly in the Maiar intervention camp - to me, it sounds very like something Olorin would do to help Alex find himself to a place where help can find him.
Author's reply
Hi Lyana. Yes, I had a lot of fun with the verb conjugation exercise. *grin*
And you're right that the Three Stooges have no idea what they've unleashed and we will see what happens to them in the next chapter when Finrod holds an enquiry about what exactly happened.
I like to think that Olórin was the one to encourage Alex to move. It's something he would do.
Thanks for commenting. I appreciate it very much.
Kitty
· 4 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
Poor Alex, he's got enough to deal with. It's understandable that he doesn't have the patience to deal with these Elves.
You know, from a son of Finrod, I'd have expected better. Somehow I get the feeling he's feeling too superior just for who he is.
That valley sounds lovely, but it was sad how that little excursion went. You know, Alex and Derek have shown to be the better men ... or rather, people. They refused to abandon these little brats (there's really no other word for them, save some that would get me in trouble with Nilmandra) even after they just vanished and even went to get help, despite being in danger from the cold themselves. I was really glad that the older Elves found Derek before he got lost.
That voice telling Alex to move ... I wonder if it was something subconscious, or if one of the Maiar acted to save him from freezing to death? Interesting that it was Amroth, considering that he probably sees him as some sort of father.
The others found Alex just in time, it seems. I just hope he doesn't end up with pneumonia, knowing his luck. Again, what has the poor guy done to you that you do all that to him?
Well, these three little brats deserve everything they are going to get, and I sincerely hope Finrod is going to find a good page in his infamous book of punishments for them!
Oh, and the grammar exercise Alex used to keep himself awake was hilarious. That's an entertaining way to learn Sindarin, no doubt! :D
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. Yes, Alex certainly has a lot to deal with. And both he and Derek show their worth in their actions here when both of them were so tempted to just leave the brats (a good name for them) and head back to camp on their own.
As for Alex's vision of Amroth... I've left that purposely ambiguous so that readers can decide for themselves what happened. Personally, I like the idea of one of the Maiar disguising himself as Amroth, knowing that Alex reveres him as a father-figure and would listen to him more than if the Maia just showed up as himself. But that is only my opinion. What really happened may never be learned; it's the result that counts, after all.
I'm glad you found Alex's grammar exercise hilarious. I was chuckling while putting it together, especially the last one. And it is an entertaining way to learn Sindarin. *grin*
Thanks for reviewing. It's very much appreciated.
Kitty
· 4 August 2012
· Chapter 56: Getting Acquainted
I really like the way how Finrod acted around Alex, particularly about his bald head.
*grin* Ninja squirrels and killer rabbits – some of the Elves must wonder about the mental state of the Mortals ;)
*squee* Laurendil is there! Another one from my wishlist! *happy dance* And Valandur! Ha, I love it when I have all the fun Elves back together! Plus, with their professions, they would be rather useful, I suspect.
As for the youngsters ... not sure what to say. Findalaurë seems to have no idea about Mortals at all, considering his reactions and words. We Mortals don't have yeni to perfect something, we have to grow up and learn a bit faster! But I guess Alex got the point across rather well, lol. And if it works on unsuspecting Maiar, why not on that little brat as well?
Hm ... for their age, these three ellyn – or at least Findalaurë - are rather immature. But you know, if the Elves look like 20, then how can Farrell believe that Amroth is Ambrose, who would have to be at least 85 now? Not even plastic surgery is that good, not to mention the other signs of old age.
The end was funny. Poor Glorfindel, at that rate his eyes are going to hurt from all that rolling!
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. Finrod is pretty cool and Laurendil wouldn't dare let him out of his sight without tagging along. Valandur will prove helpful in the future, no dobut.
The youngsters are very arrogant and they have little reason to be as they will eventually learn. As for their age, as Finrod says, they are young in experience, or at least in the type of experience Finrod and Laurendil and even Valandur, who made the Great Migration from Cuiviénen to Valinor, have had. They'll learn.
And I couldn't resist the Hosanna song. It was just too funny.
Thanks for commenting. I appreciate it.
Larner
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
I love the verb practice he ends with! And it would appear Irmo and perhaps Olorin have been attentive to Alex as he needed them to be.
Author's reply
Hi Larner. The verb practice was a lot of fun to devise. And yes, it appears that Someone was being attentive to Alex and his situation. Thanks for reviewing. It's much appreciated.
mondschaf
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
Great chapter once again- my thoughts were running in so many directions, it will take some re-readings to get them sorted ;-)But I'll try now anyways:
Poor Alex, how much more can a 'mere mortal' take before he breaks down I wonder?
And just what has Finrod been telling his son about the mortals? Or would the brat simply not listen thinking he knew better? Or was he expecting the mortals to stand back in awe and worship since the great Findalaure and his friends have come to the rescue of the poor, incapable mortal world...
Somehow I kept thinking, this is abit history repeating itself - bet the exilic Noldor displayed the same attitude towards the Sindar and Nandor. Though some probably quickly realised that (cultural / technological /social) difference doesn't always mean the other is inferior or to be feared; but that in that difference lies their beauty & worth.
I guess that's people, even if they are elves. And apparently some lessons have to be learned by each generation all over again
Huh - that was quite long - see what you did there with one innocent new chapter ;-)
Thanks for sharing this with us
mondschaf
Author's reply
Hi mondschaf. Alex can take a lot of abuse, he's been trained for a high pain tolerance and all, but it's still more than anyone should have to endure. I think you're right about how Findalaurë and his gwedyr see things, expecting the Mortals to kiss the ground they (barely) walk on. *grin*
And in some ways, you're right about history repeating itself and that will be addressed by some of the Wiseman Elves later. Finrod, of course, knows better, but that is not to say that others still need the lesson.
Anyway, thanks for taking the time to review. I really appreciate it.
Tari
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
Poor Alex. How much more abuse can his body take. Those three rascally elves deserve whatever they get, and then some.
Author's reply
Very true, Tari, and we will see what comeuppance they will receive soon enough. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
Clouded Leopard
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
Alright, I can understand why Glorfindel and the other elders thought it would be a good idea for the 5 "young ones" to go off together for a hike. It was supposed to be a way for them to get to know each other. While hiking they maybe should have got a dialogue going to know about each other (apparently that didn't happen). If they had talked they would have known about each others strengths and weaknesses, like mortals cannot do long hikes in the snow without taking a breather now and then.
The waterfall area would have been a nice place to sit and talk for a while before going back to the camp. I think Findalaure and the others, especially Findalaure were a little embarrassed about what happened back at the camp and thought about just getting even with Alex. Only this time it backfired on the Eldar and it looks like they are going to be in trouble for it. Maybe Finrod should threaten to send them back with the next shipment of elves if they don't straighten up.
These 2 chapters were great.
Author's reply
Hi Clouded Leopard. Your analysis of the motives of the three younger Elves and what should have happened but didn't is very astute and right on target. Their plan to get back at Alex definitely backfired with nearly fatal results. We'll see how they fare in the next chapter. Thanks for taking the time to read and review. It's always appreciated.
6336
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
Typical adolescent behavior, 'Let's show these puny Mortals how good we are!', never mind that said puny Mortals can kiil with their bare hands and I am including Derek in this.
I wonder if there will be any left for the other Elves to pick on when Alex, Derek, Glorfindal et al have finished, I think the rest of the Wiseman Elves would like a go at them!
We're back to Poor Alex again, I see! I am surprised he has not run screaming from The Elf Acadamy and Alaska, or is he too banged up to move!?
I think Finrod needs to check his book on creative punishments, taking care of Alex for a few days would be a good start!
Huggs,
Lynda
Author's reply
Hi Lynda. Very adolescent behavoir, which is odd, seeing as how these Elves are milennia old and they don't have the excuse of being Reborn. As for how they are punished, we'll see that in the next chapter. They do have a lot of explaining to do, that's for sure. Thanks for leaving a comment. It's much appreciated.
Fantasia
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
Ok, that was not funny. Those brats need a very painful punishment.
It was good that I read the verb conjugation last, because that was really funny.
Oh, wait, I haven write this for a while: POOR ALEX!!!!
Author's reply
Definitely not funny, Fantasia, except for the verb conjugations. And yes, Poor Alex! Thanks for reiewing. It's much appreciated.
Agape4Gondor
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
I was rolling on the floor at Alex's Sindarin thoughts. I agree with him 100%.
Besides being extremely angry at Finrod's son, I'm a bit (I can't say the word here - I'll used miffed.) I'm miffed at Glordinfel. Part of new-Elf welcoming should include strong words of instruction on how to care for a Mortal.
I wonder if hanging the three by their thumbs from a pine tree would help?
Great chapter. As always. You rock, Fiondil.
Author's reply
Hi Agape. I had a lot of fun coming up with the conjugations, especially the last one. And everyone is angry at the three youngsters with good reason. We'll see what happens with them in the next chapter. Thanks for the the compliment and the review. Both are appreciates.
Monalex
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
STUPID ARROGANT ELVES!!!!! They could have gotten Alex killed from their thoughtlessness!!!!! They are way too cruel to mortals, I mean they were enjoying Alex celar discomfort towards the valley, what kind of being does that!!!!! They are MONSTERS!!!! So I really hope Derek kills them slowly algonside Finrod, Laurendil and Valandur, they are a shame on their race...!!!
This will also set a precedent and make it very difficult for Alex, Derek and indeed every of the other mortals in the know of the elves existence of having a nice and amicable cooperation between them, because wheras Glorfindel was only arrogant, he was never thoughtless enough to nearly kill TWO mortals, when they were showing clear sings of dying.
I sincerely hope that the elves confiscate the swords of those horrible bastards, unworthy of being part of the noble linages they belong to, and only give them back when they show humility, kindness and other many diferent virtues which is clear they are seriously lacking. So I'm guessing these would mean they wouldn't get their swords bake for at the very least two centuries or more. Now I can readily see Alex and Derek putting as much space between those spoiled children and themselves, indeed from any Valanorian elf, which would clearly go against the expectations of the Valar.
Once again the mortals have shown outstanding courage and bravery in the face of crushing circumstances, being too noble to leave the elves in the woods, whereas the other three would have let Alex die but for the timely arrival of Derek with the other elves. Also it helped that Alex's subconcious told him to move, using the only father figure he's had Amroth, I really loved it and I'm sure if they tell this sotry to Amroth he would be pleased with his pupil and son, then wanting to get in line to kill those stupid elflings... :D
Author's reply
Hi Monalex. Yes, they are cruel and stupid and many other things and people will have to take a number right behind Finrod, Glorfindel, Valandur and Laurendil to get to kill the brats. We'll see what happens in the next chapter with them. Their elders are clearly unhappy with them and their arrogance and cruelty and they won't get away with it. Hopefully, this incident won't turn Alex and Derek away from the Elves.
I'm sure Amroth will be very pleased when he hears Alex's story.
Now, take a deep breath and let it out slowly and thanks for your rant... er... review. I thoroughly enjoyed it. *grin*
Idril Celebrindal
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
OH three Elves are in so much trouble!!! Let me slay them for Alex and Derek.
Great chapters since my last review! I look forward to my Friday morning reads!
Idril
Author's reply
Hi Idril. I'm glad you've been enjoying this story. Thanks for letting me know. I really appreciate it. And yes, those three Elves are in a lot of trouble as we will see in the next chapter.
Siiw
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
I hope the Elves weren't hiding behind the waterfall!
What a stupid thing to do of the young Elves, if they really were hiding on purpose. They really have no idea about how the cold affects the humans.
If the image of Amroth was from Alex' own brain and not a telepathic image or a Maia, it must mean that he sees Amroth as a father. (He called him "son") I have heard of people having experiences like this in serious danger, and it has always been a loved one or a close family member.
Oh, and thank you for always updating this exactly in time for my lunch break. :D
Author's reply
Hi Siiw. We'll see if they were hiding on purpose or not in the next chapter. And whether it was Alex's mind or a Maia urging him to move where he could be found, we'll probably never know, and ultimately, it's not important, since the outcome is all that matters and he's now safe.
And you're welcome. *grin* I know that people in Europe are having lunch about the time I update and look forward to reading this story as they are eating. Thanks for leaving a comment. It's much appreciated.
Sunny
· 3 August 2012
· Chapter 57: A Walk in the Woods
Ow. Are those brats ever in trouble now! And of course, it was Alex who had to end up the worse for wear - which is about par for the course. And I suppose it was one of the Maiar who managed to get Alex moving again.
It will be interesting to see how the little brats are going to be punished - but I think that the first thing that's going to happen, is that the swords and the bow are going to be taken - the bratlings don't seem to be old enough for the responsibility inherent in being warriors. So no pretty swords or bows to tote around.
At least the adults got there in time to prevent Alex from freezing to death.
So - poor Alex, again. But I hope that in the next chapters the brats are going to feel sorry for themselves.
Author's reply
Hi Sunny. Yes, 'Poor Alex'again. Those brats really are in trouble and we will see how much in the next chapter and what is decided as a suitable punishment. With Finrod there, you can bet the punishment will be... unique. *grin* Thanks for reviewing. It's very much appreciated.
Whispy
· 1 August 2012
· Chapter 56: Getting Acquainted
Ah, so that's who the three who were stuck in the car with Derek and Alex. FINROD HAS A BABY. -squeals- Well, I don't know if over seven thousands of years classifies as being a baby but they're all babies to me AGE IS IRRELEVANT OF BABY STATUS. Ahem.
It definitely WILL be interesting trying to help hide the Valinórean gang, especially with their archaic speech and lack of understanding of modern Middle-earthen technology. To really blend in, they'll need to learn to drive a car and use a computer...but even just turning on a light switch is probably extremely strange to them. And not only that, but most of them have never had experience with mortals, so they'll be discovering what sickness is, and aging. Oh the more I think about this, the weirder I realize this is for them.
I wonder where they'll all stay. I don't suspect Edhellhond is large enough for an added 24. Perhaps some Mortals will be recruited to host them? That'd give the new Elves an opportunity to learn more about the Mortals they're now surrounded with.
So thanks for this great chapter. Well, now I'm off to go zip-lining in my family. One of the zip-lines apparently has a 50 foot free fall at the beginning and God I'm horrified of free falls and I feel sick just thinking about it. Just casually having heart palpitations here.
So, uh, yeah if I die it was an honor to read your fanfiction. I hope I survive to see next chapter, as I am very much looking forward to it.
Whispy
Author's reply
Hi Whispy. Good luck with the zip-lining. You're braver than I am.
The Wiseman Elves have their work cut out for them in getting the Valinórean Elves settled and integrated into the Mortal society with its technology and all. It won't happen overnight, though; it'll take a little time. Edhellond will be a bit crowded for a bit until some of the Wiseman Elves move out, such as Amroth and Nimrodel or Elrohir and Serindë, and I'm sure there will be other arrangements made as well.
Thanks for leaving a comment. I really appreciate it.
Agape4Gondor
· 31 July 2012
· Chapter 56: Getting Acquainted
First, I really like it when snow has fallen and the sounds of the world are dampened. Gives me a feeling of all's well. But if I woke up and the contingent of Elves (and cars) were missing, I'd be slightly hysterical! I particularly liked Cennarion's emphatic, 'Never.
I absolutely loved Alex's nickname for a certain three. But he should know better. Elves do have very excellent hearing.
Have I told you that I love Finrod? Of course, I have. Here, he is just superb with Alex. As he must have been upon first meeting humans. What a blessed being he is. *sighs in joy* This is a line I should tape to my bathroom mirror! "Thou didst fight against thy very self," Finrod replied. "Thou didst not give in to defeat. Thou didst battle with thine inner demons and prevailed against despair."
I was glad I wasn't drinking anything when I read 'ninja squirrels!'
Glad Valandur and Laurendil came along. They appear to be two very useful Elves - not like Larry, Curly and Moe. (I know the younguns will eventually make their mark.)
As for those three and Alex and Derek - poor Glorfindel will not have any peace, will he? *g* I have a sneaky suspicion that a good frienship will loom sometime in the future.
And the ending was a hoot, after you caused Alex and Derek's eyes to pop out at age differences!
Great chapter. Lots of fun to read, even knowing that life will take some nasty turns for our friends. Friendships will prevail and courage will abound. *fingers crossed*
Author's reply
Hi Agape. This was an interesting chapter for me to write with the different responses of the Elves to Alex and Derek and the different expectations of everyone toward everyone else.
Finrod has many words of wisdom and why not? given who and what he is. And no way was Laurendil going to not come with his liege. That Life Oath and all. And Valandur probably decided it was time for him to have some fun as well.
We'll see how Alex and Derek and the Three Stooges deal with one another. I'm afraid the road to friendship will be a bit rocky for them at first, but circumstances will force them to work together and perhaps in doing so become friends.
Anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter. Thanks for letting me know. I really appreciate it.
Larner
· 31 July 2012
· Chapter 56: Getting Acquainted
"Hey, J.C., J.C., you're all right by me, sanna ho sanna hey sanna ho." I see you, too, are familiar with one of the musicals of our shared youth! Heh! Love the interjection of it!
Yes, a need to come to terms with the reality of one another now that Finrod has come with his party.
Author's reply
Yes, I just couldn't resist; it was too funny. And they do need to come to terms with the reality of one another now that the Valinórean Elves have arrived. We'll see how well the various groups - Wiseman Elves, Valinórean Elves and Mortals - get along. Thanks for commenting, Larner. I really appreciate it.
Lyana
· 31 July 2012
· Chapter 56: Getting Acquainted
Yay Laurendil!
Loved Glorfindel's reaction to the takedown of Findalaure, and I really hope that "Works well on unsuspecting Maiar, too" is explained to the boys - it would be such fun to watch those chins drop, especially if Fionwe stopped by to explain.
It makes me very happy to see how Valandur is interacting with Alex as a peer, but I don't know who I should feel more pity for - the Mortals or the Valinorean Elves - the possibilities for disaster are limitless, and knowing your... creativity, I'm very much looking forward to seeing what forms they take!
Author's reply
Hi Lyana. Yes, Laurendil. There was no way he was going to stay in Aman with Finrod in Middle-earth. I'm sure Alex's reference will be explained eventually. And I'm glad you like Valandur here. He's pretty cool. As for any possible disasters between the Mortals and the Valinórean Elves, thatremains to be seen... and hopefully they will be creative enough for you. *grin* Thanks for leaving a comment. It's greatly appreciated.
jaccairn
· 30 July 2012
· Chapter 56: Getting Acquainted
First, just to say how much I've enjoyed reading your various stories, I've read the elf interupted ones many times (though I wish I could get it on my Kindle as it would be easier to reread than on the computer screen). I'm eagerly anticpating each chapter of this one.
Now, to more recent happenings - the familiar ellith, would that be the last of their litle band from Mandos?
Author's reply
Hello jaccairn. Thank you for letting me know how much you have been enjoying my stories, especially this one and Elf, Interrupted. I really appreciate you taking the time to do so. As for the elleth, we'll learn who she is soon enough, I promise.
mondschaf
· 30 July 2012
· Chapter 56: Getting Acquainted
I usually never do this - but I felt I just couldn't keep reading this (and catching up with your other stories ;-)without at least leaving a review and letting you know how much I enjoy this!
I really enjoy your style of writing; beautiful & deep characteres and a wonderful mix of drama & comedy!
So, thanks for this, every update I am torn btw. wanting to find out what outrageous thing happens next - and thinking, maybe if I waited just a couple of days I could read two chapters in one go and the fun wouldn't be over so fast.
Author's reply
Hello mondschaf. Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment and letting me know how much you are enjoying this story (and my other stories). I really appreciate you doing so.
Tari
· 30 July 2012
· Chapter 56: Getting Acquainted
So the armies needed for the last battle are increasing. Can't think of anyone I'd rather have fight next to me.
Author's reply
Me neither, Tari. Thanks for commenting. I very much appreciate it.