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Elf, Interrupted: Book Two: Glorfindel's Quest by Fiondil | 11 Review(s) |
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Aiwen | Reviewed Chapter: 47 on 3/13/2009 |
I'm glad you're going to be telling more about what happened in Aman after the darkening because the hints you've been throwing out at intervals are somewhat maddening. Very interesting chapter, and thank you for writing. Author Reply: Thank you, Aiwen, for continuing to read my stories and leaving a review or two along the way. I really appreciate it. I know how frustrating these hints about the Darkening must be but on a bright note, I've already begun writing the story and hope to begin posting it later in the spring or by summer. We need to get "Elf, Interrupted" much further along before that or there will be plot spoilers. | |
Independence1776 | Reviewed Chapter: 47 on 3/12/2009 |
"Which is why I’m eternally grateful to Ilúvatar that Námo is the older brother, not I." *snorts* Irmo… "But only in generalities," Ingwë reminded him. "They are not given personal details. To me, that makes no sense. People will ask questions until they know. Elves as a general rule are curious. The Reborn and Exiles aren't children to be protected-- they're adults and they need to know such things, even if to know what to not talk about to whom. "Then I do not see the conflict. Speak to him. Answer his questions. He needs to know what happened, Ingwion, even if only from your perspective, which admittedly is limited. He needs to have the past illuminated or he will not understand what he sees happening around him in the present, for it has no context for him. Without that context he cannot hope to prepare himself for the future." Given how old Ingwion is, he should have been able to see that for himself. Fiondil, this chapter brings some interesting developments, but at the same time, I dislike how many of the Elves (and Maiar) are acting like children. Many of them are thousands of years old and they would be more mature than what you're showing. Furthermore, I feel the plot has been lost somewhere, as things are just dragging out. It isn't really keeping my interest anymore. I'm sorry. Author Reply: You are correct, Indy, about people asking questions until they know, but that doesn't mean that those questions are answered by those in the know. Ingwion, however old he is, has been scarred by what happened to him in the past, as have Ingwë and Arafinwë, and people who are scarred in those ways are usually reluctant to speak about what happened. And sometimes, we need to be reminded of things we already know. Ingwion recognizes that Finrod needs to know what happened and why, but is unsure how to proceed, thus his conversation with Námo. As for your other complaint... I realize that the plot seems to be lost, but I promise you that it isn't. Having more than one main character, each with their own story to tell, does make it difficult to show a clear plotline sometimes, but I assure you there is one and eventually they will all come together. I hope you will stick around a little longer and maybe your interest will return, but if not, I understand. | |
Thalanee | Reviewed Chapter: 47 on 3/11/2009 |
"Reborn Rampage" *snicker* I love that! "Irmo said gently. "They see you more as the elder brother and we all know that elder brothers were born to interfere with the fun of their younger siblings."" the same is true for Elder sisters... at least so I am told frequently and with great vigour by all my younger siblings (and I wouldn´t know since I´m the oldest). I really wanted to give Ingwion a hug in this chapter. He and Arafinwe worry to much about : I don´t think that either will loose Findarato´s love or respect. family and friends stick together ( that is what they are about, friends being the family you choose yourself...)Actually I sort of envy the easy way they show each other their affection. So there is another story coming up? I´m really looking forward to that. Your muse doesn´t give you a rest, does it. Greetings, Thalanee Author Reply: Hi Thalanee. Well, being both a younger and older sibling, I can tell you that what Irmo says is very true. *grin* I think Ingwion and Arafinwë suffered greatly during the time of the Darkening, though for different reasons, and they were forced to do things for which they are not proud. And of course, all parents want their children to think of them in a good light, rather than a bad one; Arafinwë is no different. I'm sure, though, whatever happened to Arafinwë during that time, Finrod will have nothing but the deepest respect for his atar. I'm glad you're looking forward to the new story about the Darkening and I hope it doesn't disappoint. And I think I would rather have my Muse nagging me constantly rather than not. One thing I haven't had to complain about in a long time is writer's block. *grin* | |
Tari | Reviewed Chapter: 47 on 3/9/2009 |
Reborn Rampage. I love it. I think they’re entitled to it after all they’ve been through, both before and now. One thing I love about these elves is how freely they show affection to each other be it by a kiss on the forehead, or a hug. Too bad more of us aren’t like that. We have to wait for another story? I don’t think your mind ever rests. I’m ready for more. Bring them on. Author Reply: Thanks, Tari. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. I think I like having the elves be so free in showing their affection for one another (my beta does too) because our own society has lost that practice. We've become too afraid that in showing affection, especially in public, will land us in trouble or place labels on us that we do not deserve. It's a real pity, because when we lose the ability to show affection for one another, we lose our sense of compassion for others as well. My muse is a harsh taskmaster. I no sooner finish up one story when two more pop up demanding to be written. *lol* It's like fighting the hydra -- a never ending battle. | |
Edlyn | Reviewed Chapter: 47 on 3/9/2009 |
A most intriguing and excellent chapter, meldonya. I was so happy to find that Aldundil has become an illuminator. I wish I could see his portfolio and sit and compare opinions on pigments and techniques. And Vorondil was a delight. My interest is piqued even more about the events that occurred after Finrod and the other Exiles left Aman. Frankly, I want to give Ingwion a hug and reassure him that he's not going ot lose our love. I know you will tell us what we need to know eventually so I won't nag you with "But what happened?" and the like. I'm sorry I don't have time today to give you an in-depth review since I have class and work but I'll re-read this and try to comment more later. Eru bless! EDlyn P.S. How old is Vorondil BTW (chronologically)? I know he's still not a legal adult but I just realised that I don't know the age that an elf is considered such in this fic-verse. Author Reply: Hi, Edlyn. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. I'm sure everyone's interest is piqued about the events that occurred after the Exiles left Aman (that's the whole point of dropping these hints *grin*). As for Vorondil's age... Tolkien tells us that elves become adults at age 50, although they usually continue maturing emotionally for another 50 years after that. Think about an 18-year-old being considered an adult in terms of being able to vote, go to war, get married, etc. S/he may be an adult legally, but probably not considered a mature adult in comparison to someone who is, say, 25 years old. Vorondil, when we first meet him in "Elf, Interrupted 1", is still 44 years old, almost 45. The other fosterlings are older, 47-48 years old. Technically speaking, Vorondil shouldn't have been eligible until the following winter to be fostered at Ingwë's court since fosterling should have seen their 45th beggetting day beforehand, but some strings were pulled (a few by the Valar I suspect) to get him in the same 'class' as Glorfindel. Emotionally, however, he is closer to 33 (about 14 in human terms) due to his Judgment. By the time he reaches 50 though, he will most likely have 'caught up' emotionally with his peers. | |
Hel | Reviewed Chapter: 47 on 3/8/2009 |
Seems that everyone is making the two feeling bad about the "Reborn Rampage"-Incident. But in the long run it will help them to think things trough before acting (one can hope!) and grow up. They may see themselves as grown up but that they doubt Finrod´s love and respect for them shows how immature they are. I think and hope Ingwion will fell better after he has told Finrod of his experiences during the Darkening. And I think, it is better Finrod will get the whole story from him and the others directly, than from some third party who may distort it. If Finrod is to be a leader again, he needs to know the whole truth, to understand what influences the feelings of the elves of Aman. As the kings of Aman need to know what happened in Arda to understand the Returnes and the Reborn. In this not-knowing what happend and not understandig what influences the other lies the reason for much of the trouble and tensions arising between the different elven parties. And the more hints you give about the time of the darkening the more curious I get about the promised story. And as much as I like this story I hope you start the other soon. Author Reply: Well, it's going to take them awhile to mature completely, but giving them more responsibilities should help them feel good about themselves. Much of the trouble among the elves is that there isn't enough communication between the various parties. There's a sense of superiority among the Amaneldi who pretty much have the attitude of "we didn't rebel or refused to come to Valinor so we're better than you are", while the returnees, especially the Noldor, are discouraged to speak of their experiences in Middle-earth, as if to say, "What you did there, because of the way you left Aman, has no validity in our eyes." This makes it even worse for the Reborn. Even those Noldor and Vanyar from Aman who went to Beleriand during the War of Wrath are not encouraged to speak of their experiences there. It's almost like when, during the Vietnam War, soldiers returning were not treated with the respect they deserved simply because the war was unpopular. A similar situation is occurring here in Aman. While I have begun writing the story, I won't be posting it immediately. I hope to begin posting perhaps by summer, though, so please be patient. | |
Larner | Reviewed Chapter: 47 on 3/8/2009 |
A terrible weapon truth can be--but necessary in this case. Author Reply: Very true, Larner. Most people don't realize just how terrible a weapon truth can be or how very necessary it is to cut through the Enemy's lies, which are also used as weapons. | |
6336 | Reviewed Chapter: 47 on 3/8/2009 |
Hm, interesting chapter, ties a few bows, but unravels a few more! The good thing is Vorondil is back with Master and Adundil has a new life, Oh and Finrod won't be walking around in tunics that look like he slept in them! As a side note how is Adundil's wife doing, has her stay with Vaire helped? Looking forward to the new tale. More please, Lynda Author Reply: Well, you know me... I never close all the doors and like to open a few more along the way. It keeps the readers wanting more. *devious grin* I have no idea about Aldundil's wife at the moment and do not even know if she will appear later on. I'm sure Vairë is very patient with her, and Míriel as well. Unlike Aldundil, though, Calalindalë is very stubborn and unwilling to accept correction from others. It may take a while. | |
Sunny | Reviewed Chapter: 47 on 3/8/2009 |
I wonder if talking to Finrod is also going to help Ingwion? I suspect that whatever is bothering Ingwion might be something he would have trouble discussing with someone who hasn’t lived with war and violence. Which would leave out the Amanian Elves. But here comes Finrod, with lots of experience from the front lines in Beleriand, the aftermath of battles, and various kind of trauma. So Finrod is going to help launch Aldundil’s new career as an illuminator. Makes sense. Finrod is after all Aldundil’s liege lord, and I expect he would have an interest in seeing to it that his dependents have happy and productive lives. And I see that you are throwing bait into the waters, just to keep the fish circling until you are ready to throw out the baited hook. In other words, when are you going to start posting _In Darkness Bound_? (You can't blame a girl for asking since you are hinting at what is _in_ that story already...) ;-) Author Reply: Hopefully talking to Finrod will indeed help Ingwion. We'll have to wait and see. I am already writing the Darkening story but I won't be posting it until later in the year as I do want to get EI-2 finished or nearly finished before I do. If I post the Darkening story now there would be too many plot spoilers for EI-2. You'll just have to be patient. (Where have I heard that one before? *grin*) | |
Sitara | Reviewed Chapter: 47 on 3/8/2009 |
I told you once, if you remember, that , according to my opinion, only when almost all of the Noldor had decided to leave Aman, the Valar realised they have had not only one problem (meaning one Elf) but rather a crowd of problems. Now, I'm taking my reasoning further than this and say that not all the problems have left Valinor that night. Some of them returned after the Doom of Mandos had been uttered and others had never left Aman. And that it's not anymore only about the Noldor. The Vanyar and the Teleri are now part of the problem, although I personally have my reasons to think they were such from the beginning, even before the Darkening. Tolkien says somewhere that, after providing for Arda the light of Anor and Isil, the Valar resumed their peaceful dwelling in Aman once more but those lines are hidding much behind their obvious meaning, as I believe now. As many of your readers, I knew about your intentions to write about the Darkening and, to be honest, I have been (and I still am) dreading the moment. "sheepish grin". Reading carefully Ingwion's reactions and your hints, I came to draw my own conclusions, which may or may not be true. "grin" And no, I don't actually think it'd be "he" the person that Ingwion had sought to save back then. "laugh" But I believe I do know what could think someone failing to save the loved ones and what one could be tempted to do then. "shudder" You know, for some reasons, I never liked very much Finarfin, or, more to the point, I was never able to understand him. Now I believe you may offer me the opportunity to see the other side of the coin, or "what I wouldn't have done" version. What I would actually have done... Huh...you made me go ranting again. "wide grin". Sorry. And only when I think how eager I was to see Vorondil and Finrod reunited..."sigh". I'm afraid I have bored you enough as to write also about their meeting. Only a few words for Aldundil: Very soon, you may wish to have kept your job in the Noldoran's court for digging up the past has never been a pleasant task. Loved Namo's little speech about the truth and I have to admit he's entirely right. Author Reply: You are correct in saying that not all the problems left Aman with the Noldor. I cannot imagine that what happened with the Noldor did not affect the other elves of Aman, including the Vanyar. I always thought it strange that at no time do we ever hear from Ingwë about any of this. That is why I decided it was time to write about it. Hopefully my take on the story will enlighten people (as well as entertain them). As for Aldundil... he's not the one doing the digging... he just has to illustrate it, and that may not be any more pleasant in some cases. I'm glad you loved Námos speech about truth and think that he is entirely right. Thanks for letting me know, Sitara. I appreciate it. | |