Reviews (2,009)

rikki · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

This chapter got me thinking about belief systems. I wonder if Peterson actually believes these elven legends or if this is just some machinations to win the mayoral election that his campaign manager dreamed up. It would also be interesting to find out if the protestors really know about elves or if they are just reacting to what someone tells them without checking the facts. I know I do eye rolls and duhs all the time with some of the stuff that people post on the internet. You gotta wonder sometimes about what the world is becoming. Education and learning seems to have taken a vacation. When the Star of David was displayed it should have reminded people that it doesn't take much for a mob to get carried away under a charismatic leader. And it is scary what people will do in the name of their beliefs. It was better taking a defensive position here and not confront the protestors. It is also a good thing that Glorfindel has Plan A in place and probably has worked on Plan B, C, and D. The twins and he most likely have lots of experience in leaving by the back window while someone is breaking in the front door. It was a good thing he did as the elves found the men and the explosives. If that could be proved that Peterson knew about the plot and approved it, then his campaign would end right there as a felony has just been committed. Legolas and the trees were having to much fun here. Your writing of the counter protestors reminded me of a lot of the 60s protests. Not all peaceful but certainly on the theme of handing the enemy a flower. Poor Dave is going to have a migraine with all the elves have given him. Looking forward what he and Glorfindel will have to discuss in the next chapter. Have a great weekend. The weather reporters can't make up their minds if we are having snow or not. It is time to relax in the Cliff House with some of Elrohir's hot chocolate.

KathyG · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

Whew! I am so glad that terrorist attack failed, and that many of the citizens of Wisemen stood up for the Elves. If Peterson was behind this murder attempt, it could hurt his campaign big-time, and serve him right if it does! I think it's so neat that Legolas has a role in this story. I also love it when Gandalf makes his appearance. Too bad that certain other members of the Fellowship couldn't also make their own appearances, but of course, being mortal, they're long since dead. I don't know if it would be possible for you to go into this subject in this story; there would have to be a scenario in which it could arise naturally. But it would be most interesting to learn what became of the Dwarves and the Hobbits. Given the scarcity of dwarf women back in the Third Age, it's not too hard to guess that the Dwarves eventually died out, but there's no telling what eventually became of the Hobbits. Something, I'm guessing, killed them off, too--or did they end up intermarrying with Man, since they were also of the human race, and thus fade out of existence? At any rate, there are no short people in modern-day earth with big, hard-soled, furry feet and pointed ears (there are short human beings, known as dwarfs and midgets, but they're just plain human beings like the rest of us). That would be an interesting topic for Legolas to talk over with perhaps Glorfindel, Gandalf, and a few others who are in the know, if you can create a scene in your story in which such a discussion would ensue.

Tari · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

Boy would I like to get my hands on Peterson. What a jerk! (That's too nice a word for him.) People like that make me see red.

Malice2 · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

What they all said before me. Though I have to add, as a journaliste myself (and as woman living in a democratic country), I felt bad at ease with the handling of the press. Oh well, I guess we're not very popular these days lol ;-)

SashaHoneypalm · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

Well that went south fast! Oh, yes, and of course, the Elves "obviously were atheists or in league with Satan". For some reason, a lot of the fundamentalists of Peterson's stripe don't see any contradiction in a Satan-worshiping atheist. Kind of like the people who call their least favorite politicians Nazi Communists. About the general level of intelligence you'd expect from the "iron nails in the driveway" crowd. I didn't know the Elves paid taxes. The Valinor ones, at least- I mean, do they have fake ID's and SS numbers and all that? I'm now picturing Newbie Elf's first ever IRS letter. So a rabbi, a priest, and a minister walk into a protest...

someone · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

It would have been horrible if only Valinorean elves had been home, as they wouldn't recognize a bomb and would have no idea what to do with it. That was an unbelievably nasty plan from those opposing the elves. I hope that the speech from Charles & Co. woke them up and helped them to realize just what they had done. I'm really disappointed in those who intended to murder the elves in cold blood, even if they are only fictional people. The flower attack was a great way to show support.

6336 · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

Well, at least the trees had fun if no body else did! 'The soft answer turneth away wrath.' How true, it reminds me of a story I read about a bunch of bozo's who went to protest out side a very small Mosque in the north of England, they were greeted with cups of tea and an invitation to a game of 'footie'! I think once the information about the explosive and the nature of them, i.e. military grade, gets out people will be rethinking their ideas about the elves, also did all the protesters know about the explosives? These people really should get their lore straight, it's fairies not Elves who find cold iron inimical, a whole 'nother beastie. Some how I don't think this incident will do Mr. Peterson's campaign a whole lot of good. By the way since vermin have made their appearance, just how is Ratty doing, is he still in a coma? Enjoy your self this evening, don't eat too much! I expect I will spend my time handing out candy and trying to placate Miss Kitty, who is black from her nose to her tail, about having to stay in the back of the house tonight! Have a spooky evening and a good weekend, Huggs, Lynda

Kevana · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

Tom, you are digging that hole deeper and deeper, buddy. What have you gone and gotten yourself into? C4? Seriously?! Ugh. If there's any justice in the world of EA, the cops will trace those explosives back to his campaign and drag him off in handcuffs. Or maybe the Wiseman Intelligence Agency can help find out where they got military-grade explosives and use the little fish to catch a bigger fish. It especially bothers me that the folks at the front gate were using iron nails to try and keep the Elves in (LOL, ignoramuses) so they couldn't escape the bomb. Holy crap. That's attempted murder, conspiracy, trespassing, *and* the federal offense of possession of an explosive device. Did they all *know* what they were getting themselves into when they showed up to the protest? I'd hope realizing they could have killed the Elves might cause at least a few pangs of conscience! They all ought to be dragged off in handcuffs, too. The poor kids, though. I really feel for them. Not only have they never known such violence, they've never known what it's like to be hated just for being who and what you are. That's heartbreaking. I hope their Mortal friends decide to surround them and keep them safe. Maybe have a few words with that icky professor, ugh. PO'd college students are downright dangerous when they set their minds to it. "Not your fight"? Glorfindel, sweetie, I think maybe you haven't been paying attention if you think this is not their fight! Glad the three church leaders set him right on that account. The scene at the gate was very touching. I was at an event like that once and it was one of the most powerful things I've ever experienced. It's hard to describe such chaos and I like the little touches you added in, like the silk flowers. Love that the "trees had fun." I'm sure they did, hehe. A turbulent time for Wiseman. The timing for this chapter posting now is ironic; I'm neck-deep in election coverage. November 5 can't come soon enough. Happy Halloween y'all, have fun, stay safe, keep your pets indoors and watch out for the Great Pumpkin. -Kevana

Dreamflower · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

*grin* Honestly, as they say on the net: "the stupid, it burns!" Imagine thinking they could keep the Elves in with a bucket of nails at the gate, LOL! It truly is a shame that there are those who are so fearful of the Elves; Peterson's rhetoric is scarily reminiscent of far too many politicians today who try to garner votes by whipping of hatred of anyone who is "other". (I am honestly dreading next Tuesday, knowing my own vote might as well be a leaf in the wind.) The explosives though go further than simple rhetoric. I wonder how many of the anti-Elf crowd may distance themselves when they find out what some of their co-horts were planning; after all if the explosion had taken place some of them could have been injured as well. Since the explosives were confiscated, the police may be able to trace them and find out who provided the money. If it was anyone in Peterson's camp, that could affect his campaign. (Though I don't think it will be as simple as all that.) I loved the three clergymen with their pro-Elf counter-protest. That kind of thing can be very effective, plus it may go someway to reassuring the Elves that the majority of people are on their side. A 3-to-1 ratio is pretty good, and the difference in conduct between the haters and the anti-haters will also make an impression. I am a little troubled by the efforts to sideline the press. This Priscilla may have her own agenda--we don't know where she stands on the subject of Elves--but pushing her aside could antagonize her. There must be some way to compromise and at least allow local coverage--though I'm not sure that's possible these days. It was a shame about the attack on the kids, but at least they know their friends support them. And I can understand the worries over those who aren't living there. I love Liam reading the bad guys their rights, while encouraging the trees to have a little fun! *snerk* I can just imagine them trying to explain what happened. Fun chapter! I enjoyed it very much!

Celeth · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

Hurray for the Ministers Charles, Josiah and Daniel. Its good to know that they are wielding their influence to the good. That thing about the yellow star brought tears to my eyes. I hope Nell and the Three Amigos will be able to go back to college and remain unharmed. And just when I was so happy that they are adjusting so well to the mortal world. Its a pity that their perception of Mortals will be marred now. Somehow things will never be the same again, I guess. After a harrowing experience like that, especially for the four of them who were born and raised in the peace and innocence of Aman, this must have been a shock. So Legolas is having fun huh! Its nice that he can now talk about Gimli and their good times together. And the trees had fun too. That made me laugh. Oh the poor poor perpetrators. What a pity there's no dungeon in Wiseman to throw them into, along with the first batch of protestors, if possible. And a reporter too, maybe. I hope the Elves will safely survive the election period, but this is going to make great reading (sorry, Elves). ANd I wonder what advice Dave will have for them. Looking forward to Monday! By the way, I am sorry that you were deluged by repetitions of my last comment. I guess there was a problem with our internet connection that time.

Sunny · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

Hm. I wonder if those who attacked the Three Amigos were even affiliated with the college? Certainly those who know the ellyn were friendlier. But Nielluin's child psychology professor was quite nasty to her - hopefully she won't quit her studies. It definitely sounds like the nastie are crawling out of the woodwork here - and doing so in a very unintelligent way. Anyone with two brain cells to rub together would be able to figure out that the Elves (at least the ones NOT from Valinor) would have learned ALL the dirty tricks by now. How else would they have survived this long? And Glorfindel is clearly a belt AND suspeners ellon - he takes nothing for granted where security is concerned, making contingency plans and strengthening security around Edhellond and also strengthening security for Amroth and Nimrodel (and Vorondur and Ercasse). Oh dear - someone is playing with boom stuff? NOT smart at all. Dave Michaelson is So going to throw the book at them! Legolas might be in a bit of trouble for scaring the two wannabe terrorists who ran into the woods, but given what they are likely to tell about that, I guess he can handwave it away as the two of them having eaten too much of the wrong kind of mushrooms. Others (like Tom Peterson) may take a nastier approach and accuse im of dabbling in black magic. (Of course black magic, he's on the other team, isn't he?) The Elves' allies are out in force as well, which is a good thing. Also smart for the Elves to stay (mostly) out of it themselves. Hm. If that religion thing is such a big issue, I guess the Elves might proclaim themselves to be pastafarians, and make a point of going out for spaghetti and beer every Friday. ;-) A Really Important Collection of Words here: http://www.loose-canon.info/ rAmen!

Sweetpea Baggins · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

This was well worth the wait! Thank you so much. :)

Anonymous · 31 October 2014 · Chapter 88: Besieged

I think I laughted too much at the bit with the trees and Legolas' comment of "not having this much fun since he an Gimli were wreaking havoc among the Haridrim (or Haradrim ?)", considering what happened just before. Also, the part with the Star of David touched me particularly because it is an important part of my family's culture and history and I think you painted a very credible picture of what happened during the War and how it was very similar to what is happening there. Continue, Ora

Anonymous · 29 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

Hello, I'm sorry I haven't reviewed in what feels like forever. Your story is really great. Thank you for including more of Legolas, he's my favourite character and I was really happy when the first thing I saw when I came back was is name. Continue like this, Ora

Celeth · 29 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

I know, I know. It's the middle of the week and the next update is on Friday yet, but I had a few minutes to spare and I couldn't resist coming back to read the chapter even if I already finished it last time. And I saw your comment that Amarie is coming to Wiseman soon (soon as the Elves would count it I guess). And I remember her attitude towards Sador and Glorfindel back when they were released from Lorien in EI1 and I couldn't help wondering how she will react to Mortals!!! That is really going to be interesting reading. Although I hope her husband and son's close friendship with the Mortals will help her adjust. And on that note how will she react to her son's new persona when she first meets him, and her husband, haryon to the Noldoran, working in a bookstore and employed by a Mortal. There sure will be a few shocks in store for the princess. It just tickled my fancy imagining it all.

Dreamflower · 27 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

I really enjoyed seeing these conversations. It pleases me no end to see Legolas finally feel free to speak up about his respect for his old friends of the Third Age; it must have been really hard for him sometimes to bite his tongue when other Elves were denigrating the Mortal races, especially Dwarves. I think it may be healing for him as well to finally be able to talk of them; perhaps he'll recall that the Twins knew all of those friends, and so did Glorfindel. I also liked the appearance of Orome and Tulkas--Finrod sidetracked them from mentioning just what that "little problem" was. I wonder if it might have to do with others wanting to come to Ennor? Or not? (My guesses about what might happen in your stories are usually wide of the mark, but it's fun to speculate!) It's a shame Finrod feels his time in Valinor's been wasted. I am sure that if he truly thinks about it, he'll realize that's not so--he wouldn't have his family, for one thing! And he learned a lot, much of which will be needed "here" as time goes by, I suspect. But it's fun to see how the Elves are finally getting the hang of some modern idioms, LOL!

Eruherdiriel · 27 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

I must agree with Daeron, the exact meaning of "slight" is usually up for interpretation, even when not dealing with Valar! ~Eruherdiriel

SashaHoneypalm · 27 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

You never know what in a story is going to strike a personal note with you- just a couple of weeks ago, I was having a discussion with certain People In Charge about how my being there in certain situations was not only boring, but a waste of my time. They reacted with pretty much the same surprised, slightly condescending disappointment that your Valar did. (For that matter, I was as frustrated, sarcastic, and incredulous that they didn't understand me as Finrod). Strange that it resonates so much. Anyway, it's good to see the more supercilious Elves being corrected about their attitude towards mortals. “Do you not mean what we can teach them?” *headdesk* Seriously, Beleg, you're a stranger in a strange land, you should at least be open to the possibility that maybe you don't know everything there is to know about the place. Interesting that the ring is so important that the Valar have to interfere and make another one, and then send Orome overseas as a messenger boy. Not to mention that it's "dangerous" for Glorfindel to be without it. Is that dangerous for Glorifindel, or dangerous to the people around him? What is with him that, of all the Reborn, he's the one who needs a special widget to keep him in place?

Tira · 27 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

I loved how Quinn/Finrod kept "stealing" Loren's lines. Reminds me of another story, but that's not relevant. I have the feeling the elves are going to discover what that little problem is sooner than later, and I will be happily waiting to find out with them! As a side note, your stories have made such an impact on me, that rereading my past writings have shown me how much inspiration I draw from you without actually copying (since what I write is wholly different). Thank you for being awesome.

Larner · 27 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

Well, nice that they have a replacement for Glorfindel's ring. I can appreciate why Finrod feels he's been cheated, but he'll get over it, I suspect. And I can certainly appreciate why they are wondering just what that "slight problem" might be.

Kevana · 27 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

My first thought upon reading this - "Are Tulkas and Oromë testing the waters to see if he would be willing to go back to Aman?! Is something that bad going on, or something that only he could address?" And then they change the subject and swan off without revealing it, which just makes me more suspicious. A new mystery to ponder. This one's going to drive me batty until we find out about it. I love it. (Very perceptive of Daeron to point that out, too.) Oh dear though, what *could* that mean? "Slight" problem, my foot. Slight for them might be an unmitigated disaster for the Elves. Even though I completely and fervently understand what Finrod means here – I would literally go insane if somebody trapped me on some safe, unchanging island with a strict society – it's also really sad that he felt so frustrated and resigned when his work after being Reborn was so very important. It's so hard when you look at your life and start feeling regretful and unfulfilled. I would have thought it would be different for Elves, but I guess that's one thing Mortals and Elves can have in common. I can kind of see a parallel between Finrod and Father Charles in that. If I remember correctly, Father Charles was exiled to the frozen north for decades until all the fun started happening. *side-eyes the Champion* Tulkas creeps me out way more than any of the other Ainur do. Thank goodness Manwë and Aulë were on the case with replacing Glorfindel's ring. At last he can get a break. I'm sure that's a big weight off his mind. Maybe it will help him fully recover from his beating. ("devious little orc-lovers" Glorfindel, you watch your language. Shame on you! *dies laughing*) And Finrod and Glorfindel stealing each other's lines was really cute. "‘I am not in the business of handing out rings’" - oof, is that a reference to Sauron? Yikes. Legolas has come such a long way, he really is an Elf-lord in his own right, I think. I'm going to go try to stop biting my nails after this one. Awesome chapter, lots of fun thoughts to keep me hanging on till Friday. Have a wonderful week! It's fall cleaning time at my house, I will be painting a ceiling, going through the closets, and hopefully not having any close encounters of the arachnid kind. Take care! -Kevana PS - If you do a glossary/character list for the EA 'verse, you need to add in a few recipes for hot chocolate. ;)

Kevana · 27 October 2014 · Chapter 86: Discussions on Coping with the Mortal World

Pass or fail grading, Michaelson is a tough teacher! I'm sure Legolas can handle it though. It's good he'll be learning modern weapons, the first of the returned Elves to do so if I'm not mistaken. He might be the very best at teaching the others as well, and maybe can introduce them to the concept of Kevlar vests/body armor too. I am so grateful for this chapter because I had honestly been wondering why on earth the others were so dreadfully upset about Legolas doing his own thing. Like, it's his life, he doesn't have to answer to the other Elves (or I guess he does to Glorfindel and/or Finrod, but not the others). The glimpse into the anger management classes helped me understand where Aldarion and Haldir and the others were coming from. It seems more like general hurt feelings and miscommunication than anything else, if I'm reading it right. That'll always trip you up, won't it! It kind of seems like the Ranger-Elves might be feeling the need to band together and protect each other, I hope they don't turn their Rangering into an excuse to run away to the woods and separate from society aside from hikers and such. Poor Glorfindel, panic attacks are bad enough without having to worry about having an out-of-body experience if one happens. Heh, Sunny, you've done your homework. Nice going. I can just see Mithlas getting swarmed with little ones and looking all confused! That's too precious! Very insightful chapter and helped me understand a little better. -Kevana

Kaylee Arafinwiel · 27 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

Atya, Oh Legolas, notebooks and homework and history lessons! Oh, I would love to know more about the history of the police force - silly me, I have an untapped source I could ask anytime (Emma, who actually /does/ work for the British police force and could probably tell me all I want to know about Scotland Yard and then some). I loved Legolas' talk about the Mortals he so loved and honoured - oh, and his banter with Lopez nearly made me choke on my butterbeer (why I'm enjoying "Butterscotch Cream Soda" at quarter past eight in the morning is another question altogether, but I believe it's because I, too, lack The Hot Chocolate Recipe!) Poor Finrod, feeling so useless - he has been useful all these years in Aman no doubt, although we haven't seen what he's been up to! (Maybe someday?) I am sure whatever he's been doing as a healer of Aman has been the most important thing he needed to do at the time. Now, this is. He's where Eru has needed him to be. And he also made an excellent diversion for the Valar about their "little problem". Which is...? I'm glad Loren got his ring back, at least in the same way that Finrod got the Ring of Barahir back (Does he still have his fair copy of it, I wonder?) Will Amarie come to Wiseman with her and Finrod's other children? You know the genealogist in me is squirming with joy and near to exploding, I need a more complete list of their children and the rest of their family! (On a *completely* unrelated, random note - Elenwe was a Vanya; who do you think her ancestors might have been, to put her in Turgon's view? And on a more related note, what about Glorfindel's family? Might he have been related to Elenwe?) Anyway. :) Very excited for Friday!! And not just because it's Halloween, but it is!! :D Will you be having Halloween fun, Atya? We decorated a pumpkin with a Mr. Potato Head face. *giggles* And I shall be wearing my "Death By Kitten" t-shirt I got from LootCrate. Email me please and I'll email you back with the pictures? I lost most of my email contacts when my email was being stupid this weekend. *pokes it* Maybe my laptop is haunted. Tye-melin tenn'Ambar-metta, Kaylee

6336 · 27 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

Hm, I don't think I like the sound of this, just what is the problem they are having and why when they found out how Finrod felt about his work in Aman did they not explain what the problem was? Is it some how connected with how Finrod feels? I should imagine, after sitting on his butt for several hundred thousand years, or that's how it feels to him now, coming to Wiseman has given him a whole new purpose in life, he is on a life high as it were. Can I get Elorhir's hot chocolate recipe too? Ah, well off to grocery shop and see how they have rearranged things, the Commissary was closed for four days last weeks for 'reset' now we won't be able to find anything! Have a good week, Huggs, Lynda

rikki · 27 October 2014 · Chapter 87: A Meeting in the Woods

All is not a bed of roses and the past can affect your present and future. I loved Legolas' speech regarding his interaction with the diverse group of people that he interacted with over the years. To overcome the elven general distrust of the dwarves and mortals plus meeting and learning from the hobbits has given Legolas a broader understanding of the world. Here's hoping the others take a note and pay more attention to the mortals around them, especially the ones becoming Rangers as it sounds like they are being gifted with a special education in learning the local environment. I was glad also that Glorfindel got another ring. His comment about not feeling as tense with the new ring is a sign that he really needs that bit of comfort. Finrod's bitter diatribe about not serving any purpose in Aman is a bit upsetting as Daeron points out. But someone has to do the dirty, boring and necessary jobs. We're not all lucky to be out being the Three Musketeers. Now it sounds like a new problem has shown up in Aman. I agree with Celeth in are the elves now all clamoring to come to Middle-Earth? Are you going to show us what is going on in Aman? And how does it affect the elves here? Yes I know you are going to say just wait and see but I have to ask! You keep the story interesting with these new situations and I keep reading to find out what will happen next. Have a good week.