It definitely sounds as if the Valar have some ulterior motives for allowing this fire! And it sounds as if two items get crossed off their list in this chapter: One is, of course, the meeting between Intarion and Lirulin, and one other is clearly to let Valandur to show a talent for leadership: It was clearly no accident that a Maia picked _him_ to give inspiration about backburning to. As for item number three on the list that jumped into my mind when I read this chapter, well, Valandur is the chosen messenger of the Valar with their message that he should exert himself more as High King. And it sounds as if there is a crisis burgeoning here that _needs_ someone who has authority over _all three_ clans.
Author's reply
Hi Sunny. You are certainly right about all this and I'm sure there are more than three items on the Valar's to-do list. *grin* We'll see just how things develop from here. Thanks for reviewing. It's much appreciated.
UTfrog
· 13 September 2013
· Chapter 20: Nordomas
So now we have two burgeoning romances! Lovely. I also like the way the Maier are helping, just not obviously. Thoroughly enjoyed this chapter. Thank you.
Author's reply
I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter, UTfrog. Thanks for letting me know. I really appreciate it.
Larner
· 9 September 2013
· Chapter 19: The Southern Fiefdoms
A terrible scene to see, a countryside on fire. But even now there is much they might be called upon to do to protect the village they stand near at the moment.
Author's reply
There is much that they can do and we will see what Valandur and others are able to accomplish. While there has been great destruction, not all is lost. Thanks for reviewing, Larner. It's much appreciated.
Kevana
· 9 September 2013
· Chapter 19: The Southern Fiefdoms
Oh no, I sure hope no one got hurt. First a hurricane, now a wildfire. What's next, an earthquake? Meteor shower? Rodents of unusual size? Eep! This can't be good for the farmers or the people depending on that grain. Have any of them ever even had to deal with wildfires before at this point? The dialogue suggests not. Yikes. Eager to see what's going on and how they handle all of this.
I'm glad, though, that Valandur's friends don't react with the same suspicion and disbelief that his "friends" and colleagues did, at finding out what happened after Lindarion, ahem, swanned off with him.
Thanks for the update, Fiondil! Have a great week and Friday can't come soon enough.
On a happier note, have an interesting blog I found. It's lots of fantastic words from a variety of languages.
-Kevana
Author's reply
Hi Kevana. We'll find out the extent of the destruction and all eventually. And you are correct that nothing like this has happened before, at least not in Aman, or at least, not to the knowledge of the Elves. We'll see how people handle this crisis and eventually learn what the Valar think of it all. Thanks for the blog link. It's indeed quite interesting. And thanks for leaving a comment. I appreciate it very much.
Cairistiona
· 9 September 2013
· Chapter 19: The Southern Fiefdoms
First a sea storm and now raging wildfires. Valandur certainly is getting some life lessons in dealing with natural disasters. Scary ending to the chapter... I wonder what they'll be able to do. I suppose I'll find out Friday!
Author's reply
He certainly is, Cairistiona, and so are others. We'll see what the Elves are able to do in the face of this disaster and, specifically, how Valandur fairs. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.
UTfrog
· 9 September 2013
· Chapter 19: The Southern Fiefdoms
Scary chapter. It certainly parallels some of the wildfires the western US is suffering. This will be quite a learning experience to the Aman born.
Author's reply
Hi UTfrog. And this chapter was written long before those fires began, but there are wildfires every year in the States. But yes, you are correct that it will be a learning experience for them all. Thanks for commenting. It's much appreciated.
obsidianj
· 8 September 2013
· Chapter 18: News from the South
Not that I like Tinwetariel, but she seems to be a better negotiator than Ingoldo. I hope they can finish up negotiations before the men come back. If everyone else has a united front, then it will be harder for Ingoldo to start haggling again. That storm is not by any chance the same one that hit Alqualonde? I find the timing suspicious.
Author's reply
Hi obsidian. I think you're the first person to even mention the storm, but no, it's not the same storm as hit Alqualondë. This storm originated in the southern Pelóri mountains. The timing is what it is. The sea storm occurred days before and hundreds of miles away. We will see what comes of this storm and how it affects Valandur and the others. Thanks for reviewing. I very much appreciate it.
Kevana
· 7 September 2013
· Chapter 18: News from the South
I was totally not expecting Tinwetariel to step up, but I am glad she did! Now maybe if that storm (sounds a bit like the wildfires in Australia and the western states in summertime) and its aftereffects will keep Ingoldo busy and they can wrap up most of the actual work before he gets back. Ha!
What does Fëanor even do all the time other than sneer at hapless loremasters? :P Go make yourself useful! Oh. Oh wait. Never mind. Sneering may be preferable to Fëanor doing something "useful."
I just got back home from the Outer Banks and it was amazing! Definitely recommend a trip if you've never been and/or ever have any inclination to go. Because I can't survive a trip without at least one mishap, I burned the ever-loving fool out of my feet climbing on a sand dune. (Learn from my pain, folks. Shoes are your friends unless you have some freaky hobbit feet.)
Eagerly awaiting what will befall poor Valandur next.... That sounds so terribly mean. *evil grin* Thank you for the update, Fiondil!
-Kevana
Author's reply
Well, Tinwetariel has hidden strengths and it's a pity she's married to Ingoldo and ends up in exile. She might have been an asset to Ingwë's court otherwise.
And I suspect Fëanáro always sneers when dealing with his half-sister.
Glad you had a good time at the Outer Banks in spite of burning your feet off. Next time you'll know better, right? *grin* Thanks for reviewing. It's very much appreciated.
Laer
· 7 September 2013
· Chapter 18: News from the South
I wasn't sure if Intarion was going to be nasty or not for a minute there. glad he was trying to be the "adult" too bad his father isn't. :/ Love that his mother is better at the negotiations also. Perhaps they will get somethings decided before it is all over with that will be beneficial to all with these women in charge. LOL
Author's reply
Intarion is a much better Elf than his atar, that's for sure, Laer. And Tinwetariel is a better negotiator than her husband, which is why, by the time we meet her again in "Elf, Interrupted" she's heading the annual trade delegation herself. She's not a pleasant character but she's not as stupid or as self-centered as Ingoldo.
Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it greatly.
UTfrog
· 7 September 2013
· Chapter 18: News from the South
Poor Valandur; he hopes life will not be so exciting. I hope he later learns to embrace a very different life style. I loved the breeding like rabbits comments. As always thank you so much for your work.
Author's reply
I'm afraid life will be exciting for Valandur for the foreseeable future, but we know he settles down eventually into a dull routine. *grin* Thanks for taking the time to read and review, UTfrog. I really appreciate it.
Larner
· 7 September 2013
· Chapter 18: News from the South
I rejoice that Tintewariel has proved one who truly looks to negotiate rather than to pose as does her husband. Well done!
Author's reply
We know from "Elf, Interrupted" that Tinwetariel heads the Vanyarin trade delegation when Glorfindel is living in Tirion and while she may be a good negotiator, there's not much else to recommend her, I'm afraid, as later events prove, but at the moment she is certainly proving more useful than her husband. *grin*
Thanks for reviewing, Larner. It's much appreciated.
Tari
· 6 September 2013
· Chapter 18: News from the South
With regards to a Maiar appearing as an elf. Isn't that what angels do? Taking the form of a mortal happens more often than we realize.
Author's reply
So tradition tells us, Tari. And I suspect you're right that angels taking the form of mortals happens more often than we realize. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
Cairistiona
· 6 September 2013
· Chapter 18: News from the South
I love this bit of wisdom:
“Defeat, perhaps, but victory is never won single-handedly,” Herencáno said in all seriousness. “If we are wise, we will acknowledge that our victories are won because there are others, allies, who support us and lend us their strength and courage as we fight our battles. If we lose at all it is usually because we prefer to stand alone without allies, believing, falsely, that victory shared with others is no true victory.”
As for the mountain storm, what an interesting side effect it had on the negotiations, with Ingoldo gone and his wife taking charge. I wonder what Ingoldo will make of that when he returns.
Author's reply
Hi Cairistiona. Yes, Herencáno is pretty wise and I think Valandur is even wiser to acknowledge this truth for himself.
I'm not sure if we will ever learn what Ingoldo thinks of his wife handling the negotiations, since this story is strictly from Valandur's POV, but we know from "Elf, Interrupted" that it is Tinwetariel who heads the Vanyarin trade delegation rather than Ingoldo, so I suspect that Ingwë at least was shrewd enough to let her handle things, since Ingoldo doesn't seem to want to.
Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it.
obsidianj
· 2 September 2013
· Chapter 17: Repercussions of an Unexpected Kind
And here I was wondering about Calandil, but it didn't occur to me that he was a Maia. Valandur needed someone to step in and stop Ingoldo. Although, I don't think this will have a calming effect on Ingoldo. He will now plot how he can get rid of Valandur for sure. Probably being a bit more sneaky about it. But I hope that the others will now support Valandur
Author's reply
Hi obsidianj. Calandil was acting just enough out of character that Valandur became suspicious at the end and I imagine readers were as well. We'll see what effect Olórin's intervention has on everyone but I imagine that events will be occurring soon that will draw people's attention to other matters and that includes Ingoldo. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.
someone
· 2 September 2013
· Chapter 17: Repercussions of an Unexpected Kind
Well, at least everyone should believe Valandur now. It's amazing how fast the elvish society evolved into such a rigid structure. Only some hundred or a thousand years and the likes of Ingoldo are looking down their nose at "normal" people like Valandur. It was kind of Olórin to help, but it may just cause more problems as I don't think that Ingoldo (or the others) take correction well, even if it's coming from a maia. Hopefully Findis' support will be enough for Valandur.
It's horrible, but I forgot it is Monday and Fiondil-day until now *grin*. Even after checking the site a couple of times today!
Author's reply
That's okay, someone. I almost forgot it was Monday, too, and that I was supposed to post the next chapter. So, I know how you feel. Holidays do that to you.
Anyway, the Elves have been in Aman for probably 400 or so years by now, plenty of time for their society to become stratified, and some of that process probably began even before they left Cuiviénen as leaders were chosen and so on. It's not all that surprising, and Ingoldo was probably always like he is anyway, thinking he's better than others.
As for Valandur, I'm sure he'll survive this well enough and he does have his otornor to give him support.
Thanks for taking the time to comment. It's much appreciated.
Larner
· 2 September 2013
· Chapter 17: Repercussions of an Unexpected Kind
I'd wondered how Calandil had become part of the group, and rejoice to learn it is our beloved Olorin instead. They all needed the reprimand, it appears, even Intarion. As for Ingoldo, well, what else can anyone expect from the snot?
As for Valandur--this must seem to be rather overwhelming!
Author's reply
Yes, they did all need the reprimand and who better to give than Olórin. And we know not to expect anything from Ingoldo except trouble anyway, don't we? *grin* And I suspect it has all been overwhelming for Valandur. I know I would be under similar circumstances. Thanks for reviewing, Larner. I appreciate it.
Laer
· 2 September 2013
· Chapter 17: Repercussions of an Unexpected Kind
Wow, talk about getting your hand caught in the cookie jar! Ingoldo is busted! Guess we will see if he handles it well or not. Glad that the others are now thinking about how they acted. I also am glad that two of his stanch supports were there to see Olorin. It had to make them feel blessed.
Guess we will see how petty Ingoldo can be now. :(
Author's reply
Hi Laer. Yeah, Ingoldo's been busted, but good. We'll see how things work out after this. Life is going to be rather interesting for Valandur, ever more so than before. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
Kevana
· 2 September 2013
· Chapter 17: Repercussions of an Unexpected Kind
Why thank you, Fiondil, I just half-won a bet with myself. Thought he was a Maia but had expected one of Ulmo's, hence the "half." *grin* Sheesh, Ingoldo. Two words for you: management and anger and not in that order. You'd think the one thing he would realize is the Valar don't tolerate violence on their home turf. Figured his tossing Valandur around would result in some finger shaking.... But I sympathize with Val, it's not fun to have to have an outside authority step in.
Rock on, Fiondil! :)
Thanks for the update. If you have the day off, hope you enjoy it (or even if you don't for that matter). I'm packing for the Outer Banks and some surf, sun, and wild horses. Here's hoping Uinen has Ossë in a good mood, LOL.
-Kevana
Author's reply
Hi Kevana. I suspect Ulmo 'borrowed' Olórin for the interim. Dude likes to play Elf anyway according to the Silmarillion. LOL! Anyway, it is embarrassing for Val to have the Valar step in to fight his battles for him, but I'm sure he (and everyone else) will survive the ordeal.
I have the day off, thank you, and have been happily working on Elf Academy 3 all morning and yesterday I spent the day at the State Fair. Enjoy the Outer Banks and thanks for taking the time to read and review. It's very much appreciated.
Cairistiona
· 2 September 2013
· Chapter 17: Repercussions of an Unexpected Kind
Ha, hooray for Olórin! He has a way of showing up when you least expect him, doesn't he. ;) As a parent, I was both cheering and cringing at the events in this chapter. Cheering that the Valar took things in hand, but cringing because there will be repercussions. It's the ages-old dilemma parents deal with in settling disputes amongst children: do you step in an stop the current behavior but risk longer term problems, or do you leave your child to sort it out on their own. It's never easy, managing children (especially when there's one you just want to smack... *fidgits and cranes neck to see how many are in front of me in the Whack-an-Ingoldo line*). Another good, tense chapter.
Author's reply
Hi Cairistiona. Olórin is good at showing up when least expected. *grin* And yeah, it's a tough call as to when to intervene and when not to. I think the Valar felt that Ingoldo had gone far enough in his abuse of Valandur and decided it was time to step in and explain the rules of the house. And I'm sure the Whack-an-Ingoldo line is pretty long by now. LOL! Thanks for reviewing. It's much appreciated.
UTfrog
· 2 September 2013
· Chapter 17: Repercussions of an Unexpected Kind
Yea, our first meeting with Olorin! Valandur has powerful protectors, but I think we all understand how hurt he is that no one believed him. It also seems that Ingoldo has been a twisted, hateful elon since he awakened. Hope you have a great day.
Author's reply
Yes, he does, UTfrog, and I'm sure he appreciates it, but he probably wishes they hadn't interfered as they did. Very embarrassing. And Ingoldo I think began to become twisted when the ambassadorial position was denied him and given to Ingwë instead. Sibling envy. I hope you have a great day as well. Thanks for taking the time to read and review. I very much appreciate it.
Sunny
· 2 September 2013
· Chapter 17: Repercussions of an Unexpected Kind
So "Calandil" was really Olórin in disguise? And clearly the Valar were fairly certain how Ingoldo would react to Valandur leaving the Palace, even though that was at the command of Princess Findis. (Never mind that Ingoldo had neither reason nor authority to have Valadur imprisoned.)
I'm sure this little revelation will only make Ingoldo hate Valandur more, but hopefully this will have a good effect on the rest of the delegation.
Author's reply
Hi Sunny. I'm sure you're right about that. Ingoldo is very good at holding grudges, especially if he thinks the other person has been responsible for humiliating him. Hopefully the others will wise up and treat Valandur better than they have. And don't you just love Olórin? *grin* Thanks for commenting. It's very much appreciated.
bookworm
· 2 September 2013
· Chapter 16: Return to Tirion
Aw Valandur, the poor ellon needs a hug (and a holiday). And Ingoldo needs a kick in the butt. Good to see that Findis & Herencano are taking the initiative instead of joining his pity-party tho!
Author's reply
You got that right, bookworm, at least about the hug as he's already had his holiday. LOL! Findis and Herencáno are taking the right attitude and that will help. Thanks for reviewing. It's much appreciated.
Larner
· 31 August 2013
· Chapter 16: Return to Tirion
Trust Ingoldo to be a perfect ass. But for Aldamir and Intarion to act as they did was downright wrong. Love Heracano being the most rational of the lot at the moment, and can't wait to see how Calandil will end up seeing Ingoldo put into his place--I'm certain that he will find the way to see to it Ingoldo gets the comeuppance he deserves.
Author's reply
Hi Larner. Yeah, Ingoldo is a real piece of work. Unfortunately, Intarion and Aldarion and the others are taking their cues from him. Herencáno is pretty cool and a bit unflappable. As for Calandil... we'll just have to see what he does for Valandur. Thanks for taking the time to read and review. I appreciate it very much.
obsidianj
· 31 August 2013
· Chapter 16: Return to Tirion
Ouch! Valandur is really in hot water. That Intarion and the other Vanyar don't believe him does really hurt. Ingoldo doesn't matter. He will never believe anything that doesn't fit into his preconceived notions, but Intarion and Aldarion... But I think Ingoldo is generating support for Valandur without noticing it. His treatment of a member of the delegation is being noted and Valandur gains support in quarters Ingoldo will not like.
Author's reply
Very hot water, indeed, obsidian, but you are correct in your analysis about how Ingoldo's treatment of Valandur is gaining Valandur support in unexpected ways that Ingoldo will not like. We'll see how it all resolves itself (or not) soon enough. Thanks for leaving a review. It's always appreciated.
obsidianj
· 31 August 2013
· Chapter 15: The Sea Storm Cometh
Uh, oh! That reception doesn't bode well. Oh, sure, in the long run "all will be well" as we know from your other stories, but now? I'm not so sure going by Intarion's and Aldarion's non-welcome. What were they told? Or not told as the case may be. They seemed to be surprised by the mentioning of Ulmo. I have the feeling they got very limited information. But we will see.
Good for Valandur to stay to help with the clean-up of the storm. If you think about it, he got a real good salary for helping out, new clothes and a priceless ring(Mithril), but maybe Mithril is as common in Aman as iron in ME... so nothing special except the story to go with it ;-).
Author's reply
As you say, obsidian. all will be well in the long run but for now it doesn't look to good for Valandur. We'll have to see. And you're right, he got paid handsomely for his troubles, didn't he? LOL! Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it very much.