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Elf, Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel Redux by Fiondil	8 Review(s)
hawkeye	Reviewed Chapter: 20 on 10/1/2014
Finrod is my hero. I was really impressed by how far he has come in this chapter, and I wonder if having younger brothers has helped. Initially, it almost seemed like Glorfindel was more the leader of the two. I'm thinking back to that first morning in Tirion specifically, where Finrod claims not to have any friends. That's certainly not true in this instance though. Arafinwë's response was interesting on a number of levels. I'm very curious to know what happened to him when he turned back rather. Also, he seems more "aware" of the Valar than other people might be. It's hard to quantify what I mean by that, but basically, after Finrod tells him what is going on, he has an easier time accepting it for what it is. As a king, and an incredibly strong one given his history, I knew he could be intimidating, but this is the first time I've actually seen it. I think the members of his court will think twice about being unkind. One of the ways that Arafinwë in particular impresses me is that he's not afraid to own either his mistakes or his shortcomings. As a monarch, that has to take a lot of courage. This quality really sets him apart from other kings, particularly his father and Feanor (to state an extreme case). I also think it is, perhaps, what makes him stronger and in some ways greater than they. He isn't above taking correction, even from his son in front of his court, or learning from his mistakes. Again, I really enjoyed Sador and I'm also glad for whoever inspired him to come. I have a feeling he will do much more than be a potter, whatever he might think. So Arafinwë and Eärwen officially has three sons again. I think it's very good for them ;) Thank you for a fun chapter, Fiondil. And I'm sorry my reviews have been scattered of late. University has been commandeering more of my time than I would like to give it. Author Reply: Hi Hawkeye. I think Finrod comes into his own here in this chapter as the courtiers get a glimpse of the king he once was and at the same time realize that as a Reborn he's had experiences none of them, not even Arafinwë, can truly understand or appreciate. And Arafinwë is a great king. Perhaps when you get around to reading "In Darkness Bound" you'll learn why. Sador is Sador and good for them all, Glorfindel especially. I well remember how hectic university can be, so review when you can. I'm grateful for whatever reviews you care to send me.

Kaylee	Reviewed Chapter: 20 on 7/27/2008
"If you love me, Atar, you will never ever ask me that question again..." SHIVER Oh boy. Finda's really mad there. "Yonya," he said softly and with great feeling, "don’t you think it’s about time you followed your two brothers’ example and just call me ‘Atar’?" Before Glorfindel could respond, Arafinwë turned around and strode out the door. Finrod followed in his wake, grinning hugely. grin That's my favorite part of the whole chapter :) ~Kaylee!! Author Reply: That's my favorite parr of the whole chapter, too. grin

Larner	Reviewed Chapter: 20 on 2/12/2008
"As a father I shall be to you, for a time." Theoden's words could have been spoken by Aranfinwe himself. Author Reply: Indeed.

Tari	Reviewed Chapter: 20 on 2/8/2008
Sorry there was such a gap between my replies. I was so engrossed in the story that I kept jumping right to the next chapter. Too bad this is only a story. I sure could use some of that hugging, especially from an Elf. I find a lot of wisdom in your writing which many people in this day and age to could use. I get together once a month with three other Ringers, all of whom are Gondorian. Too bad you don't live closer. I sure could use some support. All they want to talk about are the Gondorians and sometimes the Rohirrim. Author Reply: Well, I quite understand being so engrossed in a story you just have to keep clicking "next" to find out what happens. grin I'm glad you're enjoying it and finding wisdom in it. At least you can actually get together with people... there's no one here in China that I can do that with. The best I can do is chat with friends. Perhaps you should introduce them to this story... maybe they'll enjoy it enough to move out of Gondor every once in a while. grin

Edlyn	Reviewed Chapter: 20 on 4/10/2007
Greetings and salutations, mellon-nin! Having caught up on my sleep after a very busy Easter weekend (the Vigil Mass Saturday night lasted 3 hours and 15 minutes and then I had to be back at church at 8:30 in the morning for the Easter Mass) I can get back to reviewing. I hope you had a good Easter. I can so sympathise with Glorfindel. His physical and mental symptoms sound like a cross between low blood sugar and too much serotonin re-uptake (conditions I am all too familiar with unfortunately, and that can to follow on from traumatic or shocking experiences). His behaviour and demeanour are so out of character (as seen by the people he interacts with, NOT in the way he is written!) that I can understand Arafinwë's exasperation. Of course, the fact that Glorfindel still has the emotional instability of an adolescent only makes the effects of the shock worse. In a way I think what he experienced after his session with Lord Námo is like a nervous breakdown. Dealing with the people of the court, having to remember protocol and manners, having to make decisions and offer advice and even to do the ordinary, mundane things that everyone has to do to get through the day are all too much for a mind that is trying to deal with a serious trauma. At first I wondered why Finrod didn't say anything to Arafinwë to give him a heads up that Glorfindel had undergone a traumatic experience but then I remembered that he is also a "teenager" even if he's been re-embodied and back in the world longer than Glorfindel, and won't necessarily do what an adult would likely do. But that doesn't mean that he can take charge of a situation as evidenced by the way he put on his King of Nargothrond hat and took charge. Given Finrod's diffidence since his return to Tirion (not asking for his favourite foods, etc.) it must have completely floored the others when he took back his authority. It's not surprising that it was his gwador's need that triggered his resumption of this very adult persona. I think Glorfindel's tears were likely caused by a combination of weariness, confusion and embarrassment, but also from relief that Finrod was taking charge of the situation when it was too much for him to deal with. I like Calandil. I can't articulate why but I do. Brrrrr. The image of Finrod with the Light of Mandos in his eyes is absolutely terrifying! I don't blame Arafinwë for being taken aback and stepping back from his son. I have to admit that it's nice to see that even though he is a King, Arafinwë is not perfect and makes mistes and says things without thinking. Remembering his own interview with Lord Námo and Lord Manwë gave him a belated understanding of what Glrofindel is feeling. I also liked the way he handled the courtiers. It's very clear that Finrod comes by his kingliness and authority honestly. One of the best lines in this chapter was Arafinwë's: "And if I ever catch any of you taking delight in another’s misery again, you will wish it were indeed Lord Námo who speaks to you about it, because I will not be so merciful. Are we clear on this?" The stern promise in his words would certainly make me shake in my shoes! Sador was his typical charming "little brother" self. I can't help smiling at both his sigh and expression before he awakens Glorfindel. So much for being nervous of the King! He's just being a classic young teenager. When he refers to the King as "Atar Arafinwë", my smile got so big I thought my face would split. And Arafinwë gets yet another perfectly wonderful line right at he end of hte chapter: "Yonya," he said softly and with great feeling, "don’t you think it’s about time you followed your two brothers’ example and just call me ‘Atar’?" How about that? I've actually written a review that is shorter than chapter being reviewed! But don't worry, I'll probably be back to my long-winded self soon! May you live blessed! Edlyn Author Reply: Glorfindel's reaction to his "little talk" with Námo is probably more typical than most would like to think. Finrod, of course, being Reborn, would see things differently than someone like Arafinwë and would be less inclined to "interfere" with what has happened. It's only because of Arafinwë's pushing that he is forced to take matters into his own hands. Here we see him finally beginning to reclaim his adult status as a king in his own right, something that the Amaneldi in Arafinwë's court will have to deal with sooner rather than later. And you are right about Glorfindel: his tears are due as much from relief that his "older brother" is taking charge of the situation as they are due to the effects of the original trauma. I like that even though Arafinwë seemingly did not catch the looks of delight on some of his courtiers' faces as he was dealing with Glorfindel, the way Finrod noticed, he was totally aware of all that was going on around him, not just what was happening right in front of him. That shows, I think, more of the kind of person he is, especially as a king. It shows his "mindfulness", as the Zen masters would say, and shows how completely he is in control of a situation (usually). Certainly, he can make errors of judgment or just be careless with his words as we all can, but he is astute enough to know when he's been stupid about something and is wise enough to admit it. That, I think, is why he makes such a great king. Finrod is cut from the same cloth. I think that when he saw how Finrod and Sador rallied around Glorfindel, Arafinwë decided then and there to "adopt" him even if he hasn't officially made Glorfindel a Royal Ward the way he's done with Sador, which is why, for the first time, he addresses Glorfindel as "yonya" (my son), rather than the more impersonal "hinya" (my child).

Ellie	Reviewed Chapter: 20 on 12/29/2006
I am thoroughly enjoying this story. Your characterizations are superb and the drama and healing and child-like innocence are wonderful. Keep up the good work. I eagerly await the next update! Author Reply: Thanks Ellie, I appreciate your comments and encouragement.

hanci	Reviewed Chapter: 20 on 12/27/2006
That was lovely! Clueless Arafinwë and protective Finrod. This was Arafinwë's chapter, he's wonderful. I forgot he, too, had had an encounter with Námo... He really leaves a lasting impression - I guess that's the point. I loved Arafinwë's comment on 'almost' envying their relationship with Mandos, not to mention the "don’t you think it’s about time you followed your two brothers’ example and just call me ‘Atar’?" Now I can continue my day with a smile on my face that will last a long time (as always with your writing). Thank you for this christmas gift. Author Reply: I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. Yes, Arafinwë really begins to shine in this chapter. And Finrod begins to take ownership of his own heritage, both as the firstborn son of the King of the Noldor and King of Nargothrond in his own right. I'm glad my writing leaves you with a smile on your face, even when the chapters are not light-hearted. And thank you for your kind reviews. They are the best Christmas gift I can ever receive.

Bodkin	Reviewed Chapter: 20 on 12/24/2006
Finrod has his moments of being grown up now. He handled this well. And poor Glorfindel needs his understanding right now. I like it that Finarfin has adopted the other two into his family ... which will make Glorfindel Galadriel's adopted brother and Elrond's uncle-by-marriage. Most enjoyable story. Author Reply: Yes, Finrod, having been released from Mandos before either Glorfindel or Sador, has had the chance to mature and is beginning to take on more adult responsibilities. As for Glorfindel's adopted status in Finarfin's family... I doubt if he ever tells either Galadriel or Elrond about it.

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